Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Research Articles

The Moderating Role of Supply Chain Agility on the Relationship Between Strategic Flexibility and Organizational Market Performance in Nigerian Pharmaceutical Industry

The pharmaceutical industry is key to the survival of the human race, but equally becoming increasingly susceptible to global disruptions. In Nigeria, records have shown that the industry is plagued with several problems, inclusive of low employee productivity, poor market share, low innovation performance, poor and marginal sales growth and low profitability, which are likely a result of a lack of strategic flexibility in the face of increasing environment turbulence and intense competition. Despite efforts from researchers, the moderating role of supply chain agility has been largely overlooked in the literature. Therefore, this study examines the moderating role of supply chain agility on the relationship between strategic flexibility (resource flexibility, coordination flexibility, proactive flexibility, reactive flexibility and futurity) and organisational performance. A survey research design was used to collect data from 642 management and senior staff employees of six pharmaceutical companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group. A total enumeration method was adopted for the study, with a well-structured adapted questionnaire, having Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients ranging from 0.725 to 0.945. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was chosen to achieve the research goal. The PLS-SEM analysis revealed that strategic flexibility positively affects organizational performance (β = -0.093, p> 0.050, Q2 = 0.644). However, supply chain agility negatively moderates this effect, indicating that while agility is beneficial independently, it can counteract the positive impact of strategic flexibility when combined. The study recommended that the management of pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria should pay serious attention to strategic flexibility as an organizational capability that can enhance performance in the face of increasing uncertainties in and unpredictability nature of the business environment.

Investigating the Influence of Time Pressure on Risky Riding Behaviour among P-Hailing Riders in Malaysia: The Mediating Role of Moral Disengagement

This study investigates the impact of time pressure on risky riding behaviour among p-hailing riders in Malaysia, with moral disengagement as a mediating factor. Drawing on Bandura's Moral Disengagement Theory and the Job Demand-Resources (JD-R) Model, the research explores how time pressure influences these behaviours. A survey of 200 respondents, selected through stratified convenience sampling, was conducted across three Northern States in Malaysia, namely Perlis, Kedah, and Penang. Data analysis using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) reveals that time pressure significantly increases risky riding behaviour, with moral disengagement significantly mediates this relationship. The study finds that younger and less experienced riders are particularly susceptible to time pressure effects. Demographic data indicate that 80% of riders are under 35 years old, with 75% having less than three years of experience. Based on these findings, the research emphasises the need for targeted interventions, including specialised training programmes and improved workload management strategies, to mitigate risks associated with p-hailing. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of a cognitive mechanism factor in influencing risky riding behaviours among p-hailing riders and provides valuable insights for enhancing road safety measures. Future research directions are suggested, including exploration of additional cognitive mechanisms that may impact risky riding behaviours in this context.

Value co-creation in sustainable express delivery: intergenerational perspectives

PurposeThe express delivery industry faces challenges engaging consumers in sustainable practices. This study explores how sustainable service quality affects corporate loyalty, mediated by value co-creation (VCC) and green customer satisfaction. It also scrutinizes low-carbon knowledge as a moderator and investigates variances in VCC outcomes between Generation Y and Generation Z consumer groups.Design/methodology/approachAn empirical study involves a scenario experiment and a questionnaire answered by 596 Chinese consumers in 2023. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) tests proposed relationships. Regression analysis examines the chain mediating effect of VCC and green satisfaction, while group analysis assesses intergenerational differences.FindingsSustainable service quality positively influences consumer VCC, which in turn impacts customers’ green satisfaction and corporate loyalty. VCC and green satisfaction act as intermediaries between sustainable service quality and corporate loyalty. Low-carbon knowledge positively moderates sustainable service quality's impact on VCC. Generation Y and Generation Z show differences in the relationship between VCC and loyalty.Practical implicationsExpress delivery firms should enhance sustainable service quality and encourage consumer participation in VCC activities. This can improve consumer green satisfaction, loyalty and competitive advantages.Originality/valueThis study expands service marketing literature by clarifying VCC's role in sustainable services and offers insights into VCC's causes and effects. It proposes strategies for the express delivery industry to influence consumer behavior through sustainable service practices.

Reducing Consumer–Brand Incongruity Through Corporate Social Responsibility and Brand Trust: Exploring Negative Word‐of‐Mouth (NWOM)

ABSTRACTDrawing upon consumer–brand disidentification theory and balance theory, this study examines symbolic and ideological incongruity in consumer–brand relationships through an original conceptual model shaped by negative past experiences, brand trust, perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR), and negative word‐of‐mouth (NWOM). A preliminary study was conducted to explore the dimensions of consumers' negative past experiences by topic detection. Latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic modeling was undertaken to analyze online consumer reviews (n = 6095) about a coffee chain brand. The dimensions detected in this preliminary study were included in the research model and further analyzed in the main study. The main study, a cross‐sectional consumer survey (n = 522), tested the original research model by way of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) on SmartPLS. The findings showed that negative past experiences consisted of product‐related, service‐related, and technology‐related problems and negatively influenced brand trust. It was found that brand trust and perceived CSR negatively affected symbolic and ideological incongruity, while symbolic and ideological incongruity positively influenced NWOM. The findings provide empirical evidence for balance theory by showing that the three critical domains of consumer–brand relationships (ideological, symbolic, and experiential) provide a complex cognitive model that covers personal‐symbolic and moral‐societal aspects of consumer–brand disidentification and consequent NWOM intentions. In line with consumer–brand disidentification theory, the results contribute to the literature by demonstrating the direct negative impacts of brand trust and perceived CSR on symbolic and ideological incongruity, as well as the direct positive impacts of symbolic and ideological incongruity on NWOM.

Navigating Leadership Dynamics: A Study of Innovative Work Behavior in Malaysian Organization

Innovative work behaviour (IWB) is increasingly recognized as a crucial element for enhancing organizational performance in Malaysian workplaces, particularly in the public sector. This study explores how transformational leadership, transactional leadership, and psychological empowerment relate to innovative work behaviour (IWB) in Malaysian organisations. This study used a quantitative online questionnaire survey and distributed it to collect data from 280 employees in Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Selangor (PKNS). Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) statistical technique was employed to analyse the questionnaire survey data collected using Smart-PLS 3.0. The findings show that transformational leadership has significant impacts on IWB, however, there are negative effects for transactional leadership. Psychological empowerment, the interface between transformational and transactional leadership, plays a vital role in facilitating IWB. The study emphasises the significance of cultivating a culture of innovation in Malaysian businesses through the use of transformational leadership styles and the empowerment of employees. The results have significant effects on the enhancement of leadership skills and the formulation of organisational plans within the framework of Industry 4.0.

Big data analytics, company innovation and risk-taking: influence of absorptive capacity

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to empirically examine the indirect effect of big data analytics capability (BDAC) on performance through innovativeness and risk-taking among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by considering the moderating role of absorptive capacity (ACAP).Design/methodology/approachThis study utilized a quantitative method through a survey questionnaire. The hypotheses were tested with a sample size of 202 surveys completed by SME owners. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was administered to analyze data via the SmartPLS 4.0 software.FindingsThe analysis revealed that BDAC had an indirect effect on performance through innovativeness and risk-taking. ACAP strengthened the relationship between risk-taking and performance and also enhanced the link between BDAC and performance. Interestingly, ACAP weakened the connection between innovativeness and performance.Practical implicationsFrom a practical standpoint, our study offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs in the process of implementing BDAC. The mediating roles of innovativeness and risk-taking underscore their potential as drivers of SME performance. Also, it is crucial for managers to leverage lower-order capabilities (BDAC) to build higher-order organizational capabilities (innovativeness and risk-taking) and improve performance. Finally, managers are advised to utilize ACAP to identify external opportunities that contribute to performance.Originality/valueThe current study leverages the resource-based view (RBV) to provide new insights into the significance of innovativeness and risk-taking as key drivers to harness the benefits of BDAC for improving the performance of SMEs. Moreover, this study presents evidence of the moderating role of ACAP in the above relationships.

Unveiling the dynamics that shape online impulse buying behavior

PurposeThis study uses self-determination theory (SDT) to investigate the impact of limited-time deals and credit card usage on online impulse buying behavior, with a focus on hedonic motivation as a mediating variable.Design/methodology/approachA survey was conducted with 290 participants from northern India, specifically Punjab, Haryana, Delhi NCR and Chandigarh. The current analysis validates the conceptual framework using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) methodology.FindingsThe results indicate that limited-time deals and credit card usage have a favorable impact on both hedonic motivation and online impulse buying behavior. Additionally, hedonic motivation mediates the relationship between limited-time deals, credit card usage and online impulse buying behavior.Originality/valueThe study’s originality stems from its novel application of the SDT to investigate the effects of limited-time deals and credit card usage on online impulse buying. By exploring the mediating role of hedonic motivation, it sheds new light on the psychological dynamics of online consumer behavior.

From Experience to Loyalty: Understanding the Dynamics of Customer Trust in Indonesia’s Mobile Banking Industry

Objective: In the rapidly evolving financial services industry, Mobile Banking has emerged as a critical platform for customer engagement and service delivery. With the increasing adoption of mobile technologies, understanding the factors that drive customer loyalty in Mobile Banking has become a strategic priority for service providers. Key elements such as customer experience, satisfaction, trust, and loyalty intention play pivotal roles in shaping customer perceptions and behaviors. This study investigates the relationships between customer experience, customer satisfaction, trust, and loyalty intention among Mobile Banking customers in Indonesia. Method: The study utilizes an explanatory research methodology, following a quantitative approach within the positivist paradigm. This methodology is designed to clarify the causal relationships between variables, examining both direct and indirect effects. Using data from 477 respondents, analyzed through Structural Equation Modeling - Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). Results and Discussion: The findings reveal that enhancing customer experience significantly boosts trust, while customer satisfaction strongly influences both trust and loyalty intention. Although customer experience does not directly impact loyalty intention, customer satisfaction plays a crucial role in fostering customer loyalty. Trust also serves as an important mediator between customer satisfaction and loyalty intention, highlighting its role in strengthening customer relationships. Research Implications: The study's focus on Indonesian customers may limit the generalizability of the findings to other geographical contexts. Cultural differences, variations in mobile banking adoption rates, and differing regulatory environments across countries could influence customer behavior and perceptions, suggesting that the results may not be universally applicable. Originality/Value: The study’s emphasis on trust as a mediator between satisfaction and loyalty provides novel insights, particularly relevant for practitioners aiming to navigate the competitive landscape of Mobile Banking.

The Effect of Work Stress and Work Environment on Job Performance in Manufacturing Industry: A PLS-SEM Approach

Employee performance is a critical determinant of growth and success within manufacturing organizations, making it essential to understand the factors influencing it. This study delves into the effects of work stress and the work environment on job performance, specifically within the electronics manufacturing sector in Penang, Malaysia. The research addresses how role ambiguity and conflict can act as stressors and also explores how intrinsic and extrinsic motivation factors related to the work environment affect job performance. The study sample comprised 116 participants from five electronics manufacturing firms located in Bayan Lepas, Penang. Data collection was conducted through a structured questionnaire, and the analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results confirmed that the measurement model was robust, providing a solid foundation for validating the structural model. The PLS-SEM analysis demonstrated that the model had significant predictive capability, revealing that both work stress and the work environment exert substantial effects on job performance within the electronics manufacturing industry in Penang. Specifically, role stressors such as ambiguity and conflict were found to negatively impact job performance, while a supportive and motivating work environment positively influenced it. The study's results align with the theoretical frameworks of role stressors and self-determination, suggesting that effective management of stressors and the cultivation of a motivating work environment are essential for optimizing employee performance in the manufacturing sector.

Human capital efficiency, corporate sustainability, and performance: Evidence from emerging economies

AbstractThis study examines how corporate sustainability (CS) influences the relationship between human capital (HC) effectiveness and corporate performance (CP) in the context of emerging economies. Drawing on HC theories and CS, we employ partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) to analyze data from 94 industrial and service firms listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) between June and October 2022. Our findings reveal the dual role of HC, which not only directly influences CP but also significantly reinforces CS efforts. This research contributes to strategic management literature by highlighting the mediating role of CS in the HC‐performance nexus. The results underscore the strategic value of HC in enhancing sustainable practices, which positively affect CP. These insights are particularly relevant for emerging economies, where understanding the role of HC can guide corporate strategies toward sustainable growth. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed, with a focus on the importance of HC development to promote resilience and support sustainability goals in emerging markets. Future research could explore these dynamics across other industries and regions.

Fostering Nurses’ Support in the Workplace: Addressing Job Burnout Among Malaysian Medical Doctors Working in Public Hospitals

Job burnout in employees is caused by individual factors, including demographic characteristics and nurses’ support. This study analyzed the relationship between nurses’ support and job burnout among medical doctors in Malaysian public hospitals. This research was a correlational study with a cross-sectional design. The research sample was 471 employees, using the non-probability sampling method with the purposive and quota sampling techniques. Data collection used the Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory (aMBI) and nurses’ support items. The data in this study were analyzed using the Statistical Package Social Science (SPSS) and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) software. Findings suggest that 77 medical doctors who participated in the study were from Hospital Pulau Pinang, from the Emergency Department, mostly female, ranging from 24-56 years old, single, and have an MBBS education level. The study assessed the measurement model’s loading, average variance extracted (AVE), and composite reliability (CR) where the loadings were above 0.60. AVEs were greater than 0.50 and CRs were greater than 0.708. Additionally, the bootstrap BCI LL (-0.079) and UL (-0.002) for nurses’ support and job burnout were not straddled a 0 in between. Job burnout had a negative association with nurses’ support. In particular, nurses’ support towards medical doctors lowers their risk of job burnout, which has a substantial impact on medical doctors’ overall well-being. The findings indicated that medical doctors who had complete support from their nurses performed their jobs more efficiently, displayed good task performance, and experienced less job burnout.

From Gaming Elements to Purchase Intentions: The Influence of Perceived Enjoyment and Promotion Focus in Online Travel Bookings

This study examines the impact of gamification on purchase intentions in Malaysia's online travel booking industry. As traditional platforms like Expedia face declining bookings due to economic challenges and the rise of competitors such as Airbnb, Agoda, and Booking.com, understanding the role of gamification in user engagement becomes crucial. The research employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the effects of extrinsic and intrinsic gaming elements, perceived enjoyment, and promotional focus on purchase intention. A total of 141 respondents participated in the survey and the key findings reveal that extrinsic gaming elements, including points and rewards, have a significantly stronger impact on perceived enjoyment than intrinsic elements like membership levels. This heightened enjoyment, in turn, positively influences purchase intention. Additionally, the study finds that promotional focus moderates the relationship between perceived enjoyment and purchase intention, further enhancing the effect. The Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA) indicates that while intrinsic gaming elements perform below average, they are less critical than other factors. Managers should prioritize improving aspects of high importance, but currently have, low performance to boost purchase intentions effectively. Overall, the research provides actionable insights for enhancing competitiveness in Malaysia's digital travel marketplace, emphasizing the need for targeted gamification strategies to align with evolving consumer preferences. The findings offer a foundation for developing strategies that can help travel platforms maintain relevance and drive engagement in a competitive landscape.

Artificial intelligence‐based dynamic capabilities and circular supply chain: Analyzing the potential indirect effect of frugal innovation in retailing firms

AbstractAcademics and practitioners are increasingly interested in the role of the circular supply chains in maximizing resource use and improving sustainable performance. However, the shift from linear to circular supply chains is still at an early stage and still needs more research. The current study seeks to test the direct effects of artificial intelligence‐based dynamic capabilities on frugal innovation and circular supply chains in a group of retail firms operating in Jordan. The current paper also aims to test the potential indirect effect of frugal innovation. To achieve these objectives, a research framework was developed that explains hypothesized relationships between the previous constructs and was tested empirically through a sample of 212 respondents from the top administrative level in these firms. The casual and quantitative approach was employed to test the hypothetical relationships, and the partial least squares‐structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) approach was employed as a tool to analyze the data. The empirical results reported through data analysis showed acceptance of all hypothesized relationships that were hypothesized in this study, as there was a positive effect of both artificial intelligence‐based dynamic capabilities and frugal innovation on circular supply chains. In addition, the mediation was statistically significant, as frugal innovation mediated the relationship between artificial intelligence‐based dynamic capabilities and circular supply chains. This study had a set of interesting contributions at the theoretical and the managerial contributions, as this paper is the first work in the body of the literature that explores these innovative relationships. The current paper also contributed to developing recommendations that would improve sustainable performance in the retail sector by enhancing its dynamic capabilities based on artificial intelligence tools, which leads to strengthening circular supply chains.

Psychological Ownership of Avatars in the Metaverse: Its Key Antecedents and Outcomes

ABSTRACTThis study developed and tested a model exploring the antecedents and outcomes of psychological ownership of avatars in the metaverse, considering the moderating role of virtual currency acquisition methods. Using data from 252 ZEPETO users and Partial Least Square‐Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM), the study found that the ability to control, intimate knowledge, and invest in self significantly enhances psychological ownership of avatars, which extends to virtual products. Notably, the reward system (versus direct purchase) for acquiring virtual currency amplified this ownership extension, and the transference of psychological ownership from avatars to virtual products significantly influenced the intention to purchase corresponding real‐world products. The study underscores the interplay between virtual and real‐world dynamics, highlighting the impact of digital activities on real‐world consumer behavior.

Deconstructing the Complex Network of Student Satisfaction in Open and Distance Learning: An Application of Structural Equation Modeling

The rapid spread of open and distance learning (ODL) in higher education has sparked a strong interest in the determinants of student satisfaction. Although previous studies have explored various factors that influence satisfaction, a comprehensive model integrating multiple dimensions is still lacking. This study proposes and empirically tests a comprehensive structural equation model of ODL student satisfaction, incorporating interaction, instructor quality, learning management system (LMS), assessment, and student self-regulation as key predictors. Based on constructivist, collaborative, and cognitive information processing theories, we hypothesize direct effects and mediation relationships between these constructs. Data collected from 1,450 students at a large open university in China were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal complex interrelationships among the predictors, with interaction and self-regulation emerging as key mediating variables. This study contributes to the ODL literature by providing a nuanced understanding of the satisfaction formation process and offers practical implications for improving the ODL experience. Our findings highlight the need for a holistic approach to ODL design and implementation, emphasizing the synergistic effects of technology, instructional, and personal factors in fostering student satisfaction.

The Influence of Perceived Country Origin of Green Products Towards Generation Z: Local vs. Global

Purpose: This study aims to understand better the perception of the country of origin of green products towards the Generation Z population between local and global brands. This study also serves as a reference for future studies or research on how the influence of perception can determine the weight of how the Generation Z population views and potentially buy an environmentally friendly product between local and global brands. Method: This study uses primary data collected through questionnaires and distributed to the population of Generation Z from the island of Batam, with 376 valid respondents. Indicators from Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) were used to analyze how Local Brands and Global Brands can influence the perception of Green Products from the view of the Country of Origin from the Generation Z population. Result: The results of this study have practical implications, suggesting that the variables used in this study have a positive influence and are significant. For instance, Perceived Brand Globalness (PBG) and Perceived Brand Localness (PBL) have a positive and significant nature toward Brand Stereotype Warmth and Competence. Brand Stereotype Warmth and Competence also positively and significantly affect Perceived Value. Perceived Value also has a positive and significant nature towards Purchase Intentions. These findings are not only insightful but also relevant and applicable to the field of consumer behavior and green products.

Strategic Convergence: How Knowledge Sharing, Cross-Functional Collaboration, and Adaptive Leadership Drive Innovation Success

This study investigates the relationships among knowledge sharing, cross-functional collaboration, adaptive leadership, and innovation success in organizational settings. Employing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the research analyzes data collected from employees across various industries. The findings reveal that knowledge sharing significantly influences innovation success both directly and indirectly through cross-functional collaboration, which also serves as a critical mediator between adaptive leadership and innovation outcomes. Furthermore, adaptive leadership is shown to enhance cross-functional collaboration, emphasizing the importance of leadership style in fostering a collaborative culture conducive to innovation. These results underscore the necessity for organizations to cultivate knowledge-sharing practices, promote cross-functional teamwork, and develop adaptive leadership capabilities to drive innovation success. The study contributes to the literature by elucidating the dynamic interplay among these constructs and providing practical implications for managers seeking to enhance their organization's innovative capacities.

The Nexus Between Data-Driven Decision-Making, Market Responsiveness, and Strategic Alliances in Boosting Business Growth of Start-Up Companies

This study explores the nexus between data-driven decision-making, market responsiveness, and strategic alliances in fostering business growth among start-up companies. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected through surveys distributed to start-up firms, resulting in a sample that highlights the relationships among key constructs. The analysis, conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), reveals that data-driven decision-making significantly influences business growth, with market responsiveness acting as a mediator and strategic alliances serving as a moderator in this relationship. The findings underscore the importance of leveraging data analytics to enhance responsiveness to market dynamics and establishing strategic partnerships to optimize growth outcomes. This research provides actionable insights for start-ups aiming to navigate competitive environments and drive sustainable growth.

Modelling Bilinguals’ Language Shift Intentions: Towards the Development of the “Context-Dependent Theory of Language Shift”

The goal of this study was to create a theoretical framework (the ‘Context-Dependent Theory of Language Shift’) that explains how school-related linguistic practices and ideologies influence students’ language shift intentions in varying communicative domains. Data obtained from 560 high school students in Cape Coast, Ghana were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed theoretical framework. The results indicated that language attitudes, parental pressure, and English performance anxiety significantly influence students’ language shift intentions in formal communicative domains. Nonetheless, apart from attitude, these variables do not influence students’ language shift intentions in informal domains. Based on this statistical insight, our theoretical proposition is that the language shift behaviours of students in Ghana and Africa tend to be fluid and context-dependent. This presupposes that factors that may compel them to shift from their L1 to English in a given context may not compel them to shift in different contexts.

The impact of industry 5.0 on supply chain performance

The transformative potential of Industry 5.0 (I5.0) to enhance supply chain performance (SCP) has become a compelling focus for numerous supply chain (SC) managers. This research explores the profound impact of I5.0 on SCP, highlighting three key dimensions: Efficiency, Visibility, and Responsiveness. It illuminates the dynamic interplay among these dimensions, demonstrating that improved visibility leads to heightened responsiveness and efficiency. While the enabling technologies of I5.0 hold significant potential for diverse applications, this study zeroes in on seven I5.0 technologies identified as highly impactful within the SC context. A closed-ended questionnaire was employed to collect 105 valid responses from managers, experts, and practitioners who are well-versed in I5.0 within the SC domain. Data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4. The findings reveal both positive direct and indirect relationships between I5.0 and SCP, emphasizing how I5.0 reshapes performance dynamics and can expedite the adoption of I5.0.