Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Research Articles

An empirical analysis of user intention to use chatbots for airline tickets consultation

Purpose This study aims to empirically analyze the factors influencing users’ intention to use chatbots for airline ticket consultation. It seeks to introduce a comprehensive framework based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) that integrates key factors alongside traditional TAM constructs to understand what drives behavioral intention to use chatbots in the context of airline ticket consultation. Design/methodology/approach The study uses the partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach to validate the proposed model empirically. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire distributed to potential users in Saudi Arabia, with 393 valid responses from a total of 409 received being included in the analysis. Findings The empirical analysis confirms the significance of perceived usefulness and user satisfaction as direct determinants of behavioral intention. Additionally, it reveals that factors such as perceived ubiquitous access, perceived completeness, perceived accuracy, perceived unbiased response and perceived convenience have both direct and indirect significant impacts on the behavioral intention to use chatbots for airline ticket consultation. Originality/value This research advances theoretical understanding and holds practical implications for designing and implementing effective chatbot services. By investigating the complex interplay of these factors, the study makes substantive contributions to both theoretical advancements and practical applications in the field, particularly in enhancing the user experience and acceptance of chatbots for airline ticket consultations.

Redesigning quick commerce fresh and short food supply chains: circular economy strategies for sustainable last-mile operations

PurposeFresh and short food supply chains in grocery quick commerce (q-grocery FSFSCs), while valued for swift delivery, face challenges in sustainability, resource efficiency and scalability. This study aims to redesign the last mile of q-grocery FSFSCs by identifying and validating a framework of applicable circular economy (CE) practices. Furthermore, the study assesses the impact of these practices across various sustainability dimensions to understand their level of contribution to sustainable livelihoods and supply chain resilience.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a multi-phase approach. First, an integrative literature review identifies CE practices and strategies. Second, a survey gathers data on the relationship between these practices and strategies and their impact on sustainability. Third, the framework is validated using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in WarpPLS 8.0. Finally, k-means cluster analysis in Tableau 2019.4 groups CE practices based on their impact across five sustainability dimensions: environmental, economic, social, resource efficiency and scalability.FindingsThe study validates a framework and identifies high-impact CE practices, such as waste reduction, sustainable packaging, sustainable sourcing, route optimization, sustainable processes and customer convenience. Medium-impact practices include energy efficiency, sustainable fleet, resale and redistribution and information flow. Low-impact practices cover composting, reverse logistics and appropriate storage.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings assist q-grocery companies to adopt CE practices and strategies that support sustainable livelihoods and strengthen supply chain resilience while offering policymakers guidance to promote circularity.Originality/valueThis study is unique in the exploration of the intersection of quick commerce, FSFSCs and CE principles, providing actionable insights for sustainability in the q-grocery industry.

Indulging in virtual luxuries: unveiling the allure of impulse buying in metaverse

PurposeThis study aimed to examine consumers’ impulse purchases of luxury products in the metaverse, specifically by exploring how consumers’ motivational and emotional experiences affect virtual luxury product purchases in the metaverse.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey was administered to a total of 230 users of various metaverse platforms in China. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) disjoint two-stage approach.FindingsThe findings indicated that motivational experience (goal importance and goal interest) and positive emotion (fantasy, feeling and fun) have positive effects on impulse buying of luxury products in the metaverse, but none for negative emotions (loneliness and isolation).Practical implicationsThis study indicated that understanding and leveraging consumers’ motivational experiences and positive emotions can drive their impulse buying behaviour of luxury products in the metaverse, hence providing virtual and brand retailers with a testbed for their products before they launch in the physical market.Originality/valueThis study enriches our comprehension of consumers’ metaverse luxury purchases by delving into the impacts of motivational and emotional experiences on impulse buying behaviours.

The impact of logo change on brand loyalty with the mediating role of brand attitude

PurposeThis research examines the impact of logo changes within rebranding strategies, with a focus on the recent logo transformation of Burger King. Redesigns of logos often reflect shifts in brand strategies and consumer preferences. This study aims to evaluate the effects of logo changes on brand loyalty with the mediating role of brand attitude.Design/methodology/approachThis study investigates the influence of Burger King’s logo change on consumer behavior, specifically regarding brand loyalty. The research involves an analysis of the appropriateness and familiarity of the old and new Burger King logos, based on data collected from 468 Egyptian consumers. Statistical analysis is conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the impact of logo changes on consumer loyalty.FindingsThe findings indicate that a change in logo can positively affect brand loyalty, particularly when the new logo is perceived as both appropriate and familiar to consumers. Additionally, the study highlights the mediating role of brand attitude, suggesting that favorable brand perceptions enhance the relationship between logo changes and consumer loyalty.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this study highlight key strategies for brand managers involved in rebranding efforts and the associated risks of such processes. Ensuring logo appropriateness and maintaining elements of familiarity are crucial to fostering consumer acceptance and loyalty.Originality/valueThis study highlights the important role of logo change “logo appropriateness and familiarity,” offering a new perspective on how aligning logos with brand identity and retaining familiar elements can enhance consumer acceptance and loyalty with the presence of brand attitude as a mediator in this relationship.

Cybersecurity awareness and fear of cyberattacks among online banking users in Malaysia

PurposeDrawing on protection motivation theory (PMT), this study aims to explore the factors that enhance cybersecurity awareness among online banking users in Malaysia. More specifically, it investigates the influences of perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, technical knowledge, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness on perceived threats and then examines the effects of perceived threats, along with response efficacy and self-efficacy, on cybersecurity awareness, considering the moderating role of fear of cyberattacks.Design/methodology/approachA survey-based research approach was applied, and the hypotheses were tested using a sample of 324 respondents, employing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results show that perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness significantly influence perceived threats, while technical knowledge does not influence perceived threats. Furthermore, it was found that response efficacy and self-efficacy both enhance cybersecurity awareness, while perceived threats have no influence on it. Finally, our research confirmed the moderating role of fear of cyberattacks in the relationship between self-efficacy and cybersecurity awareness.Practical implicationsFor individuals, the study highlights the significance of fear, privacy awareness and response efficacy in shaping cybersecurity perceptions, paving the way for enhanced and tailored awareness programs. Moreover, the understanding of relationships between perceived threats, response efficacy and self-efficacy empowers individuals to craft personalized risk mitigation strategies, fostering confidence in navigating the digital landscape. Businesses can leverage the insights for informed design of employee training programs and data-driven decision-making in cybersecurity investments. Government entities, recognizing the nuanced relationship between perceived threats and cybersecurity awareness, are encouraged to formulate context-specific policies and foster cross-sector collaboration for comprehensive cybersecurity initiatives.Originality/valueThis research extends PMT by incorporating additional antecedent variables – namely, technical knowledge, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness within the online banking context that have been overlooked thus far. Furthermore, it delves into the unique role of fear of cyberattack as a moderating variable, thereby enhancing our understanding of PMT.

Exploring the impact of device ownership, usage patterns, and technology proficiency on mobile learning among higher education students: a multi-faceted study

This study explores the impact of device ownership, frequency of use, and technology proficiency on integrating mobile technologies (IMT) in learning by students in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Ghana. The objective is to understand how these factors are influenced by demographic variables such as age, gender, and program of study. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), data were collected from 457 students selected with a disproportionate stratified sampling technique across multiple HEIs offering STEM programs to analyse these relationships. The results demonstrated that technology proficiency significantly enhances the integration of mobile technologies into learning. It was noted that device ownership alone was insufficient to improve technology proficiency; frequent and effective usage was more essential. Additionally, gender and program of study moderated the effects of device ownership and frequency of use on technology proficiency. These findings highlight the importance of promoting effective usage patterns and advancing technology proficiency to integrate mobile technologies in educational settings better. It is recommended that HEIs focus on providing training programs to staff to integrate more learning activities that promote frequent use of mobile technologies in academic activities to enhance students' technology proficiency.

Impact of Paddy Field Expansion on Ecosystem Services and Associated Trade-Offs and Synergies in Sanjiang Plain

In recent decades, the integrity and security of the ecosystem in the Sanjiang Plain have faced severe challenges due to land reclamation. Understanding the impact of paddy field expansion on regional ecosystem services (ESs), as well as revealing the trade-offs and synergies (TOS) between these services to achieve optimal resource allocation, has become an urgent issue to address. This study employs the InVEST model to map the spatial and temporal dynamics of five key ESs, while the Optimal Parameter Geodetector (OPGD) identifies primary drivers of these changes. Correlation analysis and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) reveal intricate TOS among ESs at multiple scales. Additionally, the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) elucidates the direct impacts of paddy field expansion on ESs. The main findings include the following: (1) The paddy field area in the Sanjiang Plain increased from 5775 km2 to 18,773.41 km2 from 1990 to 2020, an increase of 12,998.41 km2 in 40 years. And the area of other land use types has generally decreased. (2) Overall, ESs showed a recovery trend, with carbon storage (CS) and habitat quality (HQ) initially decreasing but later improving, and consistent increases were observed in soil conservation, water yield (WY), and food production (FP). Paddy fields, drylands, forests, and wetlands were the main ES providers, with soil type, topography, and NDVI emerging as the main influencing factors. (3) Distinct correlations among ESs, where CS shows synergies with HQ and SC, while trade-offs are noted between CS and both WY and FP. These TOS demonstrate significant spatial heterogeneity and scale effects across subregions. (4) Paddy field expansion enhances regional SC, WY, and FP, but negatively affects CS and HQ. These insights offer a scientific basis for harmonizing agricultural development with ecological conservation, enriching our understanding of ES interrelationships, and guiding sustainable ecosystem management and policymaking.

Exploring the Influence Factors of Digital Entrepreneurship in Improving the Digitization of Small and Medium Enterprises in Yemen

This research provides valuable insights into the impact of digital entrepreneurship on the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Yemen. By integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, the research examines the role of various factors-technological, organizational, environmental, and individual, affecting technology adoption and utilization in SMEs. The study primarily explores the direct and indirect influences of these factors on actual system use, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in shaping attitudes toward technology adoption. Data were collected through a survey of 392 respondents, and the results were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The measurement model was validated for reliability and accuracy, followed by an evaluation of the structural model to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings highlight the critical role of information and communication technology (ICT) adoption in enhancing both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Additionally, the knowledge of IT entrepreneurs and government support were found to uniquely influence perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, respectively. Both of these perceptions, in turn, positively impacted attitudes toward and the actual use of digital tools within SMEs. To address the challenges faced by Yemeni SMEs, it is recommended to enhance digitalization through ICT adoption and promote a pro-technology culture. Policymakers should create a supportive environment via targeted policies, subsidies, and public-private partnerships to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness.

Proactive market orientation towards export performance within SMEs: a comparative study between the US and South Korea

ABSTRACT Drawing on dynamic capabilities (DC) theory, this paper examines the relationships between proactive market orientation (PMO) that captures new knowledge or information for a business market and export performance through exploration innovation (i.e. radical innovation) (EOR) and exploitation innovation (EOI) (i.e. incremental innovation) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both the United States (US) and South Korea. As a quantitative research, data sets in each country were collected employing a non-probability sampling approach. For theoretical extension and identifying a crucial construct for export performance, partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) is employed, including multi-group analysis (MGA). This paper has demonstrated that PMO can influence export performance through EOR in combined data, including the US and South Korea. While PMO can affect export performance through EOR in the US, PMO cannot lead to export performance through either EOR or EOI in South Korea. For better export performance, this research proposes that SMEs in the US should keep re-shaping digital business models for EOR attributed to PMO. However, due to reliance on venture capital, both EOR and EOI should be pursued simultaneously for long-term export performance. In contrast, SMEs in South Korea should facilitate business process innovation (i.e. innovating firms) first to enhance export performance.

Enhancing customer perception of co-production knowledge sharing: navigating scepticism and leveraging prosociality to unlock active feedback behaviour in co-creation

Purpose Drawing on the reciprocity principle of social exchange theory situated within Service-dominant Logic, this study aims to examine how customers’ perception of knowledge sharing in co-production, their inherent scepticism and prosocial orientation relate to their willingness to co-create and provide feedback on services. The authors also explored the interplay between these factors to identify conditions in configurations comprising scepticism, which may help navigate its adverse effects. Design/methodology/approach The authors surveyed 556 online and offline mobile payment service users. They used a combination of partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to assess the relationships among variables, and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to identify configurations associated with feedback behaviour. Findings The study determined that customer perception of co-production knowledge sharing is positively associated with willingness to co-create and feedback behaviour. Additionally, prosocial orientation positively affects this relationship, while scepticism has an adverse effect. Willingness to co-create mediates the relationship between customer perception of co-production knowledge sharing and feedback behaviour. The fsQCA findings revealed configurations for potentially navigating doubts regarding feedback. To encourage valuable customer feedback, businesses may consider promoting a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, emphasising shared advantages or building trust even among hesitant and doubtful individuals. Originality/value This study uniquely examines how both prosocial tendencies and scepticism relate to customer feedback behaviour in co-creation by using a hybrid PLS-SEM/fsQCA approach to identify co-existing conditions in configurations comprising scepticism that may help navigate its adverse effects and leverage customer feedback for business improvement.

Building Information Modeling Adoption in the Palestinian Construction Industry: Influencing Factors, External Determinants, and Technology Acceptance

ABSTRACT Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a worldwide spreading technology for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry that allows for continuous modification and improvement of building models, resulting in improved quality and cost savings in the project. The study aims to investigate the adoption pattern of BIM in the Palestinian market and identify significant factors that influence the adoption process, including top management support, organizational culture, and the number of experts and technicians. A structured questionnaire was developed, distributed electronically, and 168 valid responses were received, leading to a margin error of 4.4% and a response rate of 67.2%. A model, based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was developed and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized to evaluate the measurement model’s reliability and validity, test hypotheses regarding the relationships between constructs, and assess the impact of various factors on the intention to adopt BIM within the construction industry. Six external influences on acceptance are highlighted. Individual and organizational acceptance drivers are identified, including top management support, ease of use, and competitive landscape. Government policies impact adoption and results stress internal and external considerations for BIM adoption.

Linking green supply chain management practices with perceived environmental performance: A mediated moderation model

AbstractThis empirical study intends to identify the relationships between three green supply chain management practices (GSCMPs) [green purchase (GP1), green production (GP2) and employee green orientation (EGO)]; and perceived environmental performance (PEP) based on stakeholder theory. The study also included one mediator, perceived social responsibility (PSR) to test its mediating effects in three direct relationships and one moderator, perceived regulatory pressure (PRP), to test the moderation in the relationship between PSR and PEP. The study used a deductive methodology based on a cross‐sectional survey design. IBM SPSS 29 was used for descriptive analysis and a variance‐based partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) (through PLS 4.0) was used for testing the hypothesised relationships. The study found that, first of all, all the three independent constructs have significant positive relationships with the dependent variable, PEP. Second, GP2 and EGO have significant positive relationships with the mediator, PSR while GP1 has an insignificant relationship with PSR. Third, the mediator (PSR) is positively related to PEP. Fourth, regarding the mediating effects, the study identified that PSR partially mediates the relationships between GP2 and PEP as well as between EGO and PEP while PSR does not mediate the relationship between GP1 and PEP. Finally, the study identified that PRP strengthens the positive relationship between PSR and PEP. It is strongly anticipated that this empirical study will spark further theoretical research and empirical experiments on GSCMP‐oriented environmental performance. The study incorporated two unique variables as mediator and moderator that can open a new avenue for the upcoming research initiatives. Furthermore, the study's findings can serve as a foundation for the policymakers and/or managers working on the formulation and implementation of green supply chain management‐related policies and strategies.

During and after COVID-19: understanding entertainment consumption shifts through habit and customer value perspectives

Purpose As situational changes result in changing consumption patterns, this study aims to understand the entertainment consumption shifts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Particularly, how users’ habits and use behavior have changed and how these constructs subsequently impact their continuance intention has been investigated. The study proposes a research model based on customer value and habit theory. Design/methodology/approach The study proposes a research model based on customer value and habit theory. The data collected during (n = 192) and after (n = 138) COVID-19 situation in the over-the-top (OTT) platforms setting through purposive sampling was analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings The study elucidates that customer perceived value (utilitarian and hedonic values) impacts habit and continuance intention in different situations: during and after COVID-19. It was also shown that habit partially mediates the influence of utilitarian and hedonic values on continuance intention. Further, the extent of use had a negative moderation effect on the habit-continuance intention relationship during COVID-19 but did not moderate the relationship in the post-COVID-19 situation. Finally, it was demonstrated that the effect of utilitarian value increased, whereas that of hedonic value decreased on the continuance intention of OTT platforms in the after-COVID-19 situation compared to during COVID-19. Practical implications Although set up in the OTT context, the practitioners from other online entertainment services, and any online service in general, may utilize the study findings to reinforce habit and continuance intentions to address unwanted consequences due to situational changes. The study suggests to the OTT service providers ways to facilitate the habit formation of OTT users. The study recommends constant monitoring of the extent of the use of OTT consumers and user engagement tactics for nurturing the OTT consumption habits of heavy users. The recommendations for maintaining and strengthening the perceived value-continuance intention relationship were also made, which would help the OTT service providers immensely. Originality/value The study establishes the mediation effect of habit and the robustness of perceived value in determining continuance intention in varying situations. The results also highlighted the changes in the impact of perceived value and habit on the continuance intention of OTT platforms. The study also advances the literature by demonstrating the differential influence of the extent of use on the habit-continuance intention relationship during and after COVID-19.

Determinants of investment satisfaction among young investors in Indonesia

Indonesian stock market is dominated by young and relatively inexperienced traders who often depend on the recommendations of influencers or bloggers in social media. This will then make them dependent and conduct frequent trading, which also means higher transaction costs that diminish their profits and increase their risks, thus decreasing investor satisfaction. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the impact of perceived investor sophistication and social media influence on investment satisfaction mediated with perceived investment return as a mediating element. The analysis focused on young investors aged 18 to 30 who have invested in shares on the Indonesian Stock Exchange for at least one year. A quantitative method was adopted using questionnaires to collect data from 344 respondents. Furthermore, data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) with SMART PLS 4.0 software. The results showed that both perceived investor sophistication and investment return significantly affected investment satisfaction with beta coefficients of 0.416 and 0.358, respectively. Perceived investor sophistication also significantly influenced perceived investment return with a beta coefficient of 0.557. Additionally, social media influence significantly affected perceived investment return with a beta coefficient of 0.103. This social media influence did not directly impact investment satisfaction but through the perceived investment return, which was further found to fully mediate the impact of social media influence on investment satisfaction. Perceived investment return also partially mediated the effect of investor sophistication on Investment Satisfaction.

Empirical Evidence of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on Talent Management Practices and Employee Engagement in Government Linked Companies

Objective: The study analyzed the relationship between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on talent management practices and employee engagement at Government Linked Companies (GLCs). Method: Questionnaires were distributed and gathered from 164 employees at 47 GLCs and Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was used to test the research hypotheses. Results and Discussion: Questionnaires were distributed and gathered from 164 employees at 47 GLCs and Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was used to test the research hypotheses. Among all Malaysian GLCs from various sectors available for the study, the researcher had narrowed down the selection to the 47 companies which are listed on Bursa Malaysia stock exchange (PCG, 2015). The findings discovered that four hypotheses are not supported with the finding of this study. There were significant and positive relationships between talent development and employee engagement (vigor, dedication) and talent identification and employee engagement (dedication, absorption). Originality/Value: The results of the study revealed that talent development and talent identification are pivotal in fostering employee engagement. Specifically, talent development positively correlates with vigor and dedication, underscoring the necessity for GLCs to invest in robust developmental programs that enhance employees' energy and commitment to their roles.

Determinants of Employee Innovative Work Behavior

The objective of this study is to examine the direct and indirect effects of resilience, transformational leadership, competence, and religious attitudes on innovative work behavior. The data were collected using a questionnaire. The population in this study was 1491 employees. A total of 579 employees participated were subjected to statistical analysis using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that the resilience, transformational leadership, and competence have a direct effect on the innovative work behaviour. Similarly, the competence and transformational leadership are also found to have a direct effect on the resilience. However, the religious attitudes have no direct effect on either transformational leadership or resilience. Further, the resilience plays a mediating role in the indirect effect of competence and transformational leadership on the innovative work behavior. In contrast, the resilience fails to mediate the indirect effect between religious attitudes and innovative work behavior. These empirical findings highlight the significant influence of determinants of innovative work behavior.

The Effect of Convenience, Attractiveness, and Motivation on the Effectiveness of Online and Offline BIPA Learning Based on Teacher Perceptions

Teachers must create an engaging, convenient, and motivating learning environment to ensure the effectiveness of both online and offline BIPA learning. This research aims to identify the characteristics of BIPA (Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers) teachers and analyze the differences in the levels of effectiveness, attractiveness, motivation, and convenience experienced by teachers during offline and online learning. Furthermore, this research examines the impact of Convenience (ease of access and flexibility), Attractiveness (appeal of content and methods), and Motivation (strategies to inspire engagement) on the overall Effectiveness of BIPA learning based on teacher perceptions. The study finds that Convenience, Attractiveness, and Motivation significantly influence the overall Effectiveness of both online and offline BIPA learning. Additionally, this study seeks to identify strategies teachers employ to foster interest and motivation among BIPA students in both learning modes. This study employs a cross-sectional research design with 100 BIPA teachers as respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that BIPA teachers are generally Indonesian citizens with less than one year of online teaching experience. The study reveals that the attractiveness, convenience, and effectiveness levels are higher offline than online learning. Moreover, attractiveness has a significant positive effect on effectiveness. Field trips are vital activities that generate interest and motivation in offline learning, while simple materials and applications are pivotal in online learning. This research highlights the positive aspects and activities undertaken by BIPA teachers to enhance the effectiveness of online and offline learning.

Exploring the impacts of risk perception and risk management planning on innovation orientation: a PLS-SEM approach

PurposeAlthough risk and innovation are often linked, current studies exploring the correlation between these terms are scarce. This study empirically examines the relationship between construction firms’ risk perception, risk management planning and innovation orientation.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual framework was formed through the literature and validated by the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique, employing the data collected from 182 practitioners working in the Vietnamese construction sector.FindingsThis study highlighted that innovation orientation can be categorized as creation and adoption. The findings indicated that while risk perception can hinder innovation creation, effective risk management planning can mitigate the adverse effects. The findings also highlighted that the focus on innovation adoption will negatively affect innovation creation. Additionally, the findings showed that risk management planning has a positive relationship with innovation creation.Originality/valueThis study fills the research gap by explaining why innovation creation is often prioritized by innovation adoption, as risk perception acts as a deterrent. The results imply that construction firms should balance adopting innovations and fostering an environment conducive to innovation creation. It is recommended that these firms invest organizational resources in forming effective risk management plans to create a more secure environment for innovation creation.

Technological intensity and innovation capability: evidence from an emerging country

Purpose In general, it is believed that firms belonging to the high technological intensity stratum have a more innovation capability. However, evidence has begun to appear in the literature demonstrating that firms in the low-tech stratum also have the innovation capability. This paper seeks to solve this dilemma. Through an analysis of industrial firms in an emerging country, this study aims to identify the existence of innovation capability in all strata of technological intensity. Design/methodology/approach The authors empirically assessed the impact of innovation capability on the performance of firms in all strata of technological intensity. The authors studied a sample of 910 firms from different industries and technology intensities operating in Peru, by applying a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM). Findings This study obtained three important findings. First, the authors show that innovation capability is present in all strata of technological intensity. Second, innovation capability differs according to the technological stratum. Third, firms in the lowest technological stratum can use more capabilities than those in the other strata. Originality/value This study pioneers the empirical analysis of innovation capability and technological intensity simultaneously to verify that innovation capability exists in the four strata of technological intensity.

Do the technological anxiety, privacy and physical risks matter in retail customers'‏ ‏adoption of AR‏ ‏apps? An extended UTAUT2 approach

PurposeDue to augmented reality (AR) technology improvements, the retail industry has embraced smart retailing as its primary business model. Therefore, organizations must comprehend the intricacies of AR adoption to persuade clients to adopt this revolutionary technology effectively. Thus, the current study proposes and evaluates a comprehensive model that includes unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2), privacy concerns, physical risks and technological anxiety to predict customers’ intention to use AR apps in the retail industry in the Egyptian context.Design/methodology/approachThe current study examines 398 responses from Egyptian shoppers using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Snowball sampling was employed in the existing study. The participants were selected using a “self-selection” strategy, which is an excellent method for research investigations in which the participants freely participate.FindingsConsumers’ intentions to use AR apps in retail settings are positively impacted by task-technology fit, performance expectation, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions and hedonic motivation. Conversely, privacy and physical risks negatively affect customers’ intention to use AR apps in retail. Furthermore, technological anxiety serves as a moderator factor in these connections.Originality/valueTo the best of our knowledge, the current study is considered the first to test the role of UTAUT2, privacy and physical risks on users' behavioral intentions toward adopting AR apps in retail. It also examines technological anxiety as a moderator in the retail setting.