Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Research Articles

Exploring the Nexus of Assistance-Seeking Engagement in Travel Communities: Role of Destination Knowledge and Advocacy

ABSTRACT The current study examines the interactions between destination knowledge and advocacy behaviors that may drive assistance-seeking engagement with social media-based travel communities (SMTCs). This research is guided by a conceptual model emphasizing the mediating role of advocacy behavior among SMTC participants. The proposed model was tested on a sample of 208 young SMTCs’ members. Data was collected using a self-administered cross-sectional survey method, which helped collect data from 208 young SMTCs’ members. The proposed relationships are analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings support destination knowledge’s significant role in influencing individuals’ seeking assistance and advocacy behaviors; hence, they afford insights into consumers’ engagement with SMTCs. Further, the study guides tourism managers to utilize SMTCs to disseminate and advocate vital travel communication.

Metaverse and regenerative tourism: the role of avatars in promoting sustainable practices

ABSTRACT This study explores the role of avatars in enhancing awareness and learning outcomes in virtual regenerative tourism. Data from 483 participants engaging in online virtual tourism experiences were analyzed using partial least-squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that extrinsic motivations like authenticity, immersion, perceived social distance, and textual credibility positively influence attitudes toward avatars, which in turn significantly impact learning outcomes. These outcomes are moderated by intrinsic motivations such as prosocial identity. Enhanced learning notably shapes regenerative practices, including conservation efforts support for local community. Contributing to self-determination theory, this research highlights the interplay between virtual environments and self-identity in ethical behavior. It offers key insights for destination marketers and tourism operators in leveraging virtual technologies for sustainable tourism development.

Implications of HR managers' green attitude: a study of Indian hospitality sector

PurposeThe paper examines the influence of green attitude of HR managers on the other key HRM variables in an organizational context. Specifically, the objective of the paper was to determine if HR managers’ green attitude influences the green behavior of employees in an organization, while accounting for the mediating and moderating effect of contingent variables.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered from 175 human resources managers of Indian hotels using a structured instrument and subjected to partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis, using SmartPLS 3.0 software.FindingsWhile the green attitude of human resource managers was found to positively influence the green behavior of employees, it was observed that the extent of green rewards played a mediating role in the relationship. Top management support was found to moderate the relationship between green attitude of human resource managers and green human resource management practices.Practical implicationsThe study identifies how green behavior of employees can be improved by focusing primarily on the green attitude of HR managers. Thus, recruiting HR managers with high green orientation, contingent on the exogenous factors mentioned in the study being considered, will result in greater pro-environment employee behavior.Originality/valueOur unique contribution was viewing greening practices in the organization through the HR managers’ lens, who are critical in implementing green practices in an organization, thus providing novel insights compared to earlier studies in the field.

Unleashing the potential of social media celebrities to promote food waste reduction in educational institutions: developing an extended model based on the value-belief-norm theory

PurposeThis study aims to provide insights into the drivers of student engagement in food waste reduction strategies in educational institutions. The proposed research model integrates social media celebrities' attractiveness, expertise and trustworthiness with the value belief norm (VBN) theory to explore their influence on students' behaviour towards food waste reduction.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from 417 students enrolled in public and private universities in the Riyadh and Macca regions of Saudi Arabia to evaluate the proposed model. The partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyse the responses.FindingsThe results showed that VBN theory's components, such as values (biospheric, altruistic and egoistic), beliefs (new ecological paradigm, awareness of consequences and aspirations of responsibility) and norms significantly and positively influence food waste reduction behavioural intentions. It was also discovered from the results that social media celebrities' attractiveness, expertise and trustworthiness influence food waste reduction behavioural intentions.Originality/valueThis study contributes significantly to the literature by identifying factors influencing student engagement in food waste reduction strategies in educational institutions where limited research exists. It fills this research gap by developing a novel theoretical framework integrating social media celebrities' attributes with the VBN theory to explain these factors.

Do women have a say? A moderated mediation model's influence on the leverage policy toward corporate sustainable growth

PurposeExamining the role of women on board (WoB) toward corporate sustainable growth (CSG) through leverage policy (LP). This research also investigates the interaction effect of WoB and LP on improving CSG.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a moderated mediation model to examine the impact of WoB on CSG, mediated by LP. Data from 48 KEHATI IDX ESG Sector Leaders Index companies observed from 2015 to 2021 were analyzed using the structural equation model partial least square (SEM-PLS) Warp.PLS 8.0. The research applies instrumental variables (IV) to test and control endogeneity due to nonrandom sample selection.FindingsWe found evidence that LP acts as a full mediator between the presence of WoB and CSG. The presence of WoB plays a moderate role by slightly weakening the influence of LP on CSG. Furthermore, we obtained evidence showing that the relationship between WoB and CSG is J-curve-shaped, a nonlinear relationship related to critical mass. Where the WoB ratio is at least 8.35% or higher, it will increase CSG in companies that have implemented the concept of environment social governance (ESG) in Indonesia.Originality/valueThis model uses a moderated mediation model and J-curve analysis; there is an interaction between WoB and LP on different paths of the mediator to CSG. This model examines the role of WoB as a moderator of the effect of LP on CSG. A nonlinear J-curve test was conducted to determine the minimum level of WoB that can influence the increase of CSG.

Exploring the key factors influencing the actual usage of digital tax platforms

In this groundbreaking study, we explore the behavioral determinants critical to the acceptance and effective utilization of Jordan's digital tax platform among taxpayers. Utilizing an unprecedented combination of frameworks from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Social Capital Theory (SCT), and Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), this study pioneers a unique integrated approach. Data gathered through questionnaires across Jordan's multiple governorates lay the groundwork for this analysis. Employing the sophisticated Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) within SPSS, our results uncover the profound impact of both social factors (trust, subjective norms) and technological attributes (perceived ease, utility), as conceptualized in TAM, SCT, and TRA. This research is distinct in its focus on Jordan, providing new insights into the nexus of tax compliance and technology adoption, a relatively uncharted area in existing literature.

Measuring the Critical Success Factor of Safety Program in Drilling and Well Intervention Operation at PT. MHK, Ltd.

The drilling and well intervention division implements various safety initiatives to prevent incidents. Despite its multiple activities, an assessment has yet to be conducted to determine the program’s efficacy. This paper aims to determine the elements that impact the effectiveness of safety program execution in drilling and well intervention operations in MHK, Ltd. The Author conducted measurements utilizing variables related to the critical success factor of the safety program, as outlined in the cross-reference research article. Subsequently, the author introduces a system of incentives in variables quantified as a novelty of this research based on input from subject matter experts. By understanding the variables that influence the efficacy of the safety campaign, the safety campaign initiatives will be more focused on mitigating accidents within the drilling and well intervention divisions. The research was conducted utilizing a quantitative approach, where data was gathered through a questionnaire that employed a Likert scale. The population comprises individuals employed in the Drilling and Well Intervention roles at many locations, including the site, field, barge, rig, and town. The data is further analyzed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) technique, employing the smartPLS4 software. The study findings indicated that three out of five variables examined had a favorable and significant impact on the efficacy of the safety program at DWI MHK, Ltd.: management commitment, reward and punishment, and safety arrangement. We propose strengthening identified elements and addressing weaknesses, including utilizing digitalization and artificial intelligence for safety monitoring.

Analyzing University Students’ Attitude and Behavior Toward AI Using the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology Model

This quantitative study using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) examined a structural model of the attitudes and behaviors of university students toward AI in higher education. The results obtained using SmartPLS 4.0 indicate that the constructs exhibit validity and reliability (λ ≥ 0.708, α=0.767-0.948, AVE=0.584-0.777, HTMT=< 3.3). Further, the analysis of the hypothesized extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use (UTAUT) model reveals that AI Awareness significantly impacts Attitude toward AI (β = 0.156, p = 0.003) and Behavioral Intention to Use AI (BIU) (β = 0.337, p < 0.001). AI Trust also significantly influences Attitude toward AI (β = 0.366, p < 0.001) and BIU-AI (β = 0.173, p = 0.007). Additionally, Attitude toward AI is a strong predictor of BIU-AI (β = 0.457, p < 0.001). Social Influence significantly affects Attitude toward AI (β = 0.21, p < 0.001), while Effort Expectancy and Performance Expectancy do not show significant effects in this context. The link between Facilitating Conditions and BIU-AI is also insignificant. The model explained a substantial portion of the variance in attitude (R2 =0.612) and behavior (R2 =0.710). Fit indices indicate good model fit, and predictive relevance metrics were satisfactory.

Consumers’ receptivity to mHealth technologies: a hybrid PLS–ANN approach

PurposeMobile health (mHealth) technologies, in particular, have been sought after and advocated as a means of dealing with the pandemic situation. Despite the obvious advantages of mHealth, which include monitoring and exchanging health information via mobile applications, mHealth adoption has yet to take off exponentially. Expanding on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, this study aims to better comprehend consumers’ receptivity to mHealth even after the pandemic has subsided.Design/methodology/approachThrough purposive sampling, data were collected from a sample of 345 mobile phone users and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) capture both linear and nonlinear relationships.FindingsEffort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence, pandemic fear and trustworthiness positively influenced mHealth adoption intention, with the model demonstrating high predictive power from both the PLSpredict and ANN assessments.Research limitations/implicationsThe importance–performance map analysis (IPMA) results showed that social influence had great importance for mHealth uptake, but demonstrated low performance.Practical implicationsReferrals are an alternative that policymakers and mHealth service providers should think about to increase uptake. Overall, this study provides theoretical and practical insights that contribute to the advancement of digital healthcare, aligning with the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) (good health and well-being).Originality/valueThis study has clarified both linear and nonlinear relationships among the factors influencing intentions to adopt mHealth. The findings from both PLS and ANN were juxtaposed, demonstrating consistent findings.

Family business sustainability: the impact of governance and women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia

Due to their strong emotional interest and ownership control, family firm owners significantly influence their firm’s strategies and governance, which has consequences for their business sustainability practices. The failure to establish or maintain formal organizational structures, and adopt good governance principles, may hinder family firms in their pursuit of long-term sustainability. This study empirically investigated the impact of corporate governance on family firms’ sustainability, with women’s empowerment and culture as moderating and mediating factors, respectively. Data for the study were obtained from a sample of 126 family firms from Saudi Arabia. The study adopted the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) method. The study results empirically confirmed that corporate governance is positively associated with women’s empowerment, which also assists in achieving business sustainability in family-controlled firms. The adoption of good corporate governance policies, and empowerment of women through their appointment on corporate boards operating in a supportive culture, can reinforce an organization’s mission, purpose and strategies, which can create an enabling environment for family business sustainability.

Exploring the Moderating Effect of Generational Status on the Link Between External Environment and Entrepreneurial Motivation of Indian Women Entrepreneurs

This study examines how external environmental factors affect the motivation of first- and second-generation women entrepreneurs in India, and how their generational status moderates this relationship. We used a survey design method to collect data from 459 women business owners in India, who were classified as first- or second-generation based on whether they were the first or second generation in their family to start a business. We employed the partial least-squares structural equation modelling method to test our hypotheses and evaluate our model. We found that external environmental factors, such as education and training, financial support, government policies and non-financial support, had positive effects on entrepreneurial motivation for both groups of women entrepreneurs. However, we also found that generational status had a significant moderating effect on the link between education and training and entrepreneurial motivation, but not on the other three external environmental factors. Specifically, we found that education and training influenced second-generation women entrepreneurs more strongly than first-generation women entrepreneurs. Our findings have important implications for management practice and policymaking, as well as for the literature on women entrepreneurship. We suggest that concerned authorities should develop differential strategies for first- and second-generation women entrepreneurs, taking into account their different responses to external environmental factors. We also suggest that future research should explore other internal and external environmental factors that might interact with generational status or other variables to shape women entrepreneurs’ motivation.

Factors Affecting the Implementation of Risk-Based Internal Auditing

This paper aims to investigate the factors affecting risk-based internal audit (RBIA) implementation in public sector organizations in Saudi Arabia. This paper utilized 234 usable answered questionnaires from internal audit managers, internal auditors, accountants, and executives working in Saudi public sector agencies. The gathered data were analyzed by applying partial least squares–structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Results show that management support, internal auditor role, risk management system, and training in risk management all positively and significantly influence the RBIA. Improved internal auditing procedures and an efficient internal monitoring system will significantly curtail any risks impeding the organization’s goals, diminish the temptation to fabricate financial data or statistics, and enhance the accuracy of financial reporting/statements. Moreover, this study’s results have crucial implications for managers of public sector organizations, heads of internal audit departments, internal auditors, and accountants seeking to improve the reliability of internal audits and other aspects of financial information. Published research on what variables are influencing RBIA implementation is scarce. This study adds to the nascent literature by focusing on Saudi Arabian public sector organizations, establishing empirical variables based on an in-depth review of the relevant research and conducting an empirical investigation of the factors associated with RBIA implementation in the Saudi economy. By concentrating on public sector organizations in Saudi Arabia, this paper sheds light on other nations with comparable systems for governance policies and processes in their government-run entities.

Am I Safe at My Educational Place? Creating Secure and Sustainable Urban Learning Spaces Through Green Infrastructure and Ecological Education

Green infrastructure has become a critical part of society for environmental sustainability. Students studying in public urban spaces seem less satisfied with their living standards and environmental conditions. This research aims to determine the impact of perceived danger in urban public spaces, green infrastructure, and ecological education on student satisfaction. Additionally, this study considers the moderating effects of ecological education and green infrastructure. Data were collected from 350 students at public schools and colleges. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method was used for data analysis. The study found a significant direct relationship between perceived danger in urban public spaces, green infrastructure, ecological education, and student satisfaction. Moreover, the moderating effects of green infrastructure and ecological education are significant in increasing student satisfaction. This research is based on a novel idea and contributes a newly developed model to the body of knowledge on student satisfaction and ecological education. The research has both theoretical and practical implications for improving student satisfaction through ecological education and green infrastructure. The limitations of this research are described, along with future directions to guide researchers in their future studies.

The Influence of Culinary Diversity and Tourism Events on Tourist Expenditures (Study in Central Lombok Regency with Destination Image as Intervening Variable)

This research investigates the interplay between culinary diversity, tourism events, destination image, and tourist expenditures in Central Lombok Regency, Indonesia. A quantitative approach utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze data gathered from domestic and international tourists. Hypothesis testing revealed significant positive relationships between culinary diversity and tourist expenditures, tourism events and tourist expenditures, culinary diversity and destination image, tourism events and destination image, as well as indirect effects through destination image on tourist expenditures. The result highlights the economic importance of diverse culinary experiences and engaging events in driving tourism revenue, shaping destination image perceptions, and influencing tourists' spending behaviors. The study underscores the need for integrated destination management strategies to leverage Central Lombok's cultural and gastronomic assets for sustainable tourism development.

The role of employee empathy in forming brand love: customer delight and gratitude as mediators and power distance belief as a moderator

Purpose This study explores the influence of employee empathy on brand love, which subsequently affects customer advocacy, willingness to pay more (WTPM) and tolerance of failure. Additionally, it investigates the mediating role of customer delight and gratitude in connecting employee empathy with brand love and the moderating effect of power distance belief (PDB) between employee empathy and customer delight and gratitude.Design/methodology/approach A total of 751 usable data were gathered through scenario-based online surveys within a hotel context. The proposed conceptual model used Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) for testing.Findings The results affirm the impact of employee empathy on brand love through the pathways of customer delight and gratitude, ultimately influencing positive customer behaviors, such as advocacy, WTPM and tolerance of failure. Moreover, the findings suggest that PDB diminishes the effect of employee empathy on customer gratitude, although it does not affect customer delight.Originality/value The study introduces novel insights into the significance of employee empathy as an antecedent of brand love. It contributes to the literature by concurrently conceptualizing customer delight and gratitude as mediators between employee empathy and brand love, consequently leading to favorable consumer behaviors. Furthermore, it advances our theoretical comprehension of an individual customer’s PDB and its psychological impact.

Extending dramaturgical theory to evaluate revisit intention of international tourism: A scenario of COVID-19 tourism recovery

Since 2019, major travel destinations worldwide have issued travel-related restrictions against COVID-19. There is much research on tourism, but few studies have been conducted to explain the relevance of revisiting intention from the perspective of the epidemic or the dramaturgical theory. The purpose of the research is to explore the impact of customer experience on revisit intention during the period of COVID-19 slowdown by using dramaturgical theory. This study used a survey methodology, and the questionnaire was distributed on an online questionnaire platform. The URL of the questionnaire was published on social media (such as Facebook and LINE) to collect data from 389 samples of people who have foreign travel experience. The data was analyzed by employing partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) methodology with the help of the statistical software “SmartPLS”. The research findings are as follows: 1) setting, audience, and performance are the three important elements of dramaturgical theory that impact the experience quality; 2) customer experience of tourists has a significant impact on the experience quality; 3) experience quality has a significant positive impact on the experience value and relationship quality; 4) experience value and relationship quality are important predictors of revisit intention. This study provides academic implications regarding the use of dramaturgical theory in relation to customer experience and relationship constructs in the context of tourism. Furthermore, it also provides some practical implications to tourism practitioners and managers, which would assist tourism industries in developing successful marketing strategies for the possible recovery of COVID-19.

The Influence of Training and Development Programs, Job Autonomy, and Organizational Culture on Employee Job Satisfaction and Performance

This research explores the intricate relationships between training and development programs, job autonomy, organizational culture, and employee outcomes, with a specific focus on the mediating role of job satisfaction. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative analysis using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with qualitative insights gathered from interviews and focus group discussions. The results highlight the positive impact of effective training programs, job autonomy, and a supportive organizational culture on job satisfaction levels among employees. Job satisfaction emerges as a crucial mediator, translating these organizational factors into improved performance, motivation, and overall well-being. The findings underscore the importance of prioritizing strategies that enhance job satisfaction to foster a more engaged and productive workforce, ultimately contributing to organizational success

Analyzing the influence of university support and entrepreneurial culture on solar entrepreneurial intentions among Indian students

The involvement of students in entrepreneurial activities related to solar energy has the potential to have a major impact on expanding energy access. Nevertheless, there is an absence of research on the dynamics and knowledge of solar entrepreneurship, specifically from an Indian perspective. The main aim of this study is to highlight the significance of solar energy entrepreneurship and its capacity to motivate and encourage university students towards entrepreneurship, thereby fostering sustainable development. The study intends to analyze several individual-level characteristics that influence university learners' intentions to engage in solar entrepreneurship. The goal of this study is to shed light on how students' career choices in the field of solar entrepreneurship are influenced by their personal passion, self-efficacy, personality traits, and social norms. A stratified random selection technique was employed to gather a representative sample of 279 university students who are currently enrolled in both public and private universities situated in the northwest region of India. The study employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to examine the relationship between individual-level factors and entrepreneurial attitude. The analysis indicated that all individual-level factors, except entrepreneurial passion, were significant predictors of entrepreneurial attitude. Furthermore, the findings demonstrated a positive association between student entrepreneurial attitudes and solar entrepreneurial intentions. The research also examines the managerial implications, limitations, and future scope of the research.

Assessing the Effect of Compensation Packages, Work-Life Balance Policies, and Career Development Opportunities on Employee Retention: A Case Study of MSME Employee

In today's competitive business environment, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) face significant challenges in attracting and retaining top talent. This study examines the impact of compensation packages, work-life balance policies, and career development opportunities on employee retention within MSMEs. Using a quantitative research design and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), data from 300 respondents were analyzed to explore the relationships between these factors. The findings reveal significant positive relationships between compensation packages, work-life balance policies, career development opportunities, and employee retention. These results highlight the importance of strategic investments in human capital and the creation of conducive work environments to foster employee loyalty and commitment within MSMEs.

Unveiling the power of word-of-mouth in pre-recruitment employer branding strategy during COVID-19

PurposeThis study, based on signaling theory, examines the pre-recruitment employer branding strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic. It investigates the relationship between spontaneous word-of-mouth (WOM) recommendations for companies and prospective candidates' job application intentions. Specifically, the study explores serial mechanisms mediating the characteristics of company online career pages, including the perceived informativeness of online job advertisements (ads), candidates' preferences for its web approach to them and the company’s reputation.Design/methodology/approachReflecting prospective candidates from students and young alumni of universities, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed on a sample of 737 individuals representing various fields of study from Greek universities.FindingsThe findings highlight the effectiveness of positive WOM recommendations during the initial stages of recruitment, particularly amidst COVID-19 challenges in the labor market, notably impacting young candidates. The study suggests that spontaneous WOM, originating from trustful sources, motivates job seekers to actively engage with the company’s web career channels, seeking information and favorable indications of the company’s approach toward its candidates. Positive WOM, combined with informative content and a friendly communication style, plays a critical role in shaping the company’s reputation. Consequently, this encouragement motivates individuals to start their job search efforts and consider applying for positions within the specific organization.Practical implicationsThis research provides valuable empirical evidence in the pre-recruitment field, particularly in unforeseen crisis circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines how spontaneous, positive WOM from sources, like peers and alumni, significantly influences young job seekers' perceptions and preferences regarding the company’s career web channels as sources of information and signals about working conditions. The combination of positive WOM with informative content and a friendly communication style in the web approach plays a crucial role in shaping a positive company reputation. Consequently, this encourages candidates to consider applying for positions within the company.Originality/valueThis research contributes to pre-recruitment studies, especially amidst crises like COVID-19. It examines how positive WOM from trusted sources like peers and alma mater alumni influences young job seekers' views on the company’s career web channels. By emphasizing the importance of combining positive WOM with informative web content and a friendly communication style, the study offers insights into effective recruitment strategies. It highlights the significance of positive and spontaneous WOM in attracting young talent and its impact on job seekers' decision-making, even in uncertain conditions. Overall, it advances recruitment practices for attracting candidates.