Network Partners Research Articles

Regional Governance and Multiplex Networks in Environmental Sustainability: An Exponential Random Graph Model Analysis in the Chinese Local Government Context

Chinese city governments have collaborated increasingly to address regional environmental issues by participating in informal and formal collaborative networks. However, collaboration among cities involves collaboration risks. This study investigates how cities strategically select collaborative partners in informal and formal networks in the context of the Yangtze River Delta in China. This study addresses this question by assessing the nature of collaborative problems in the informal and formal networks, the extent of homophily in actors’ preferences, and their relationship multiplexity. Findings from Exponential Random Graph Analysis demonstrate: (1) city governments tend to connect to the popular actor and create relationship closure in the informal network, while only forging relationship closure in the formal network; (2) homophily (in water pollution) and heterogeneity (in air pollution) jointly affect city governments’ choices of collaborative partners in the formal network; and (3) the presence of relationship multiplexity wherein the formation of formal ties is built between city governments with pre-existing informal interactions. The findings advance our knowledge of collaborative partner selection and local collaborative governance in China.

Knowledge Management in the Ecolabnet Project: Practical and Theoretical Utilisation of Eco-innovations

The underlying objective of the paper is to analyse the process of managing theoretical and practical knowledge about eco-innovations, utilising it in ECOLABNET project. A network of project partners consisting of RDI institutions, Intermediary Organisations, and universities was established to promote exchange and dissemination of knowledge on eco-innovative solutions and services among Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the countries of the Baltic Sea Region. The paper presented the principles applied in the knowledge management (KM) process within the project with a particular stress on the research conducted on the group of European SMEs form the Baltic Sea Region (BSR), first stage of ECOLABNET project implementation. The research provided much needed knowledge on the project’s beneficiaries – SMEs form the BSR region and facilitated the adjustment of the offer of the project consortium. Expert knowledge, eco-innovative products and services that have been provided by the network of partners assist SMEs in implementing and commercialising eco-innovative solutions. In this way they significantly contribute to practical application of sustainability principles by expanding the offer of project beneficiaries (SMEs) with environmentally-friendly products and services. In addition, the author also, highlights the advantages of a combined approach including expertise in the form of theoretical knowledge being supported by prototypes of eco-innovations. Their particular role in strengthening the eco-innovative capabilities of the entire network and the overall success of the project have been detailed as well.

Identifying critical gaps in research to advance global surgery by 2030: a systematic mapping review

Progress on surgical system strengthening has been slow due to a disconnect between evidence generation and the information required for effective policymaking. This systematic mapping review sought to assess critical research gaps in the field of global surgery guided by the World Health Organisation Health Systems building block framework, analysis of authorship and funding patterns, and an exploration of emerging research partnership networks. Literature was systematically mapped to identify, screen, and synthesize results of publications in the global surgery field between 2015 and March 2022. We searched four databases and included literature published in seven languages. A social network analysis determined the network attributes of research institutions and their transient relationships in shaping the global surgery research agenda. We identified 2,298 relevant studies out of 92,720 unique articles searched. Research output increased from 453 in 2015-16 to 552 in 2021-22, largely due to literature on Covid-19 impacts on surgery. Sub-Saharan Africa (792/2298) and South Asia (331/2298) were the most studied regions, although high-income countries represented a disproportionate number of first (42%) and last (43%) authors. Service delivery received the most attention, including the surgical burden and quality and safety of services, followed by capacity-building efforts in low- and middle-income countries. Critical research in economics and financing, essential infrastructure and supplies, and surgical leadership necessary to guide policy decisions at the country level were lacking. Global surgical systems remain largely under-researched. Knowledge diffusion requires an emphasis on developing sustainable research partnerships and capacity across low- and middle-income countries. A renewed focus must be given to equipping countries with tools for effective decision-making to enhance investments in high-quality surgical services.

Who is responsible for developing energy policy interventions in Mozambique? A stakeholder analysis and social network analysis

PurposeThis study highlights the crucial significance of stakeholder participation in the creation of a comprehensive energy and electrical master plan for Mozambique. The purpose of this study is to deliver a practical insights that transcend theoretical concerns by digging into the subtleties of stakeholder relationships and strategic collaborations, paving the path for pragmatic and meaningful solutions that connect with real-life conditions. This debate lays the groundwork for educated decision-making, propelling Mozambique’s energy industry towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a combined approach of stakeholder analysis (SA) and social network analysis (SNA) to enhance our understanding of the stakeholder landscape in Mozambique’s energy sector. This methodological approach offers a unique vantage point to examine the individual stakeholders’ roles and the intricate web of connections, partnerships, collaborations and information-sharing activities. By integrating SA and SNA, this study aims to provide a more comprehensive and dynamic depiction of stakeholder interactions, contributing methodologically to the existing body of literature.FindingsThe findings also highlight the need to develop frameworks that promote private investment and joint endeavours with entities such as Cahora Bassa Dam/Mozambique Transmission Company. A consistent legal framework ensures uniform performance and a robust monitoring system for ongoing projects, improving accountability and progress tracking. Furthermore, the discussion includes enhancing the competence of the regulatory agency regulating the electricity industry. This includes tackling complex concerns with electricity pricing and other regulatory aspects relevant to private investment. A highly empowered regulatory agency is critical to creating an atmosphere conducive to long-term private sector involvement.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study emphasises the need to integrate multiple stakeholders, it may not detail specific issues or impediments that may develop during the engagement process. Additional research could look into potential tensions or barriers to effective collaboration. Furthermore, the study emphasises the necessity of addressing environmental impacts; it must thoroughly examine specific environmental concerns such as carbon emissions, deforestation or renewable energy possibilities. Future research could assess the suggested policies’ environmental impact more extensively. Additionally, while the conclusion briefly mentions economic prosperity, a more thorough consideration of the possible economic and social implications of various energy policies could provide a greater understanding of their practicality and potential benefits.Practical implicationsIn terms of practical contributions, this study aspires to shed light on how stakeholder interactions can shape energy policy interventions that ensure reliable and affordable energy sources for economic development and societal well-being. By unveiling the complex network of relationships and partnerships, this study seeks to provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry players and other stakeholders involved in Mozambique’s energy sector. By taking this action, this research aims to pave the way for more effective and inclusive energy policies that align with circular economy principles, thus addressing a critical need in scholarly discourse and practical implementation.Originality/valueThe study underscores the critical role of energy stakeholders in shaping energy policies and projects, given their influential positions and impact on decision-making processes. While existing literature acknowledges this influence, a discernible research gap exists in comprehensively understanding how stakeholder interactions and collaborations in the energy sector affect policy interventions within a context such as Mozambique. This study seeks to bridge this gap by delving into the intricacies of stakeholder involvement and its implications for energy policy development in Mozambique.

Poster (Clinical/Best Practice Implementation) ID 2004606

Background/Objectives The Centre for Family Medicine Primary Care Mobility Clinic has been active in developing collaborations at various institutions to further the overall research and clinical objectives of serving individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). From these initiatives, The Circulus SCI Primary Care Network (Circulus Network) was established to spark intentional collaborative research, education, training and service in primary care for individuals with SCI. Objectives The Circulus Network aims to bridge the gaps in primary care for individuals with SCI through research, education, increasing primary care resources, networking with various stakeholders and general advocacy. Methods/Overview The Circulus Network is comprised of a Steering Committee and working groups that are representative of key stakeholders. These groups meet on a rotating monthly basis and are supported by a group process consultant. The Circulus Network informs best practice guidelines and improves knowledge translation by hosting quarterly interactive webinars on topics related to SCI and primary care as well as bi-annual Summits. Results Since 2021, The Circulus Network has hosted 9 webinars on SCI-related topics with good attendance by network participants. It also hosted a Summit in 2021 in which participants discussed priority planning topics and leveraged expertise to develop action steps. The Steering Committee is planning another Summit for February 2024. Conclusions Using our extensive knowledge of primary care for individuals with SCI, we will continue to strengthen and develop the formalized network of patients, care partners, clinicians, researchers, and educators to support primary care of individuals with spinal cord injuries.

IPA en ville et IPA à l’hôpital : missions et enjeux des partenariats

Advanced practice nurses, whether they practice on an outpatient basis or in a health care establishment, constitute an essential link in the articulation of patient follow-up thanks to a network of partners. This article describes the missions of two nurses, one working in an epileptology department and the other in a cardiology practice, as well as the partnerships they have implemented.

Cloud-based digital healthcare development for precision medical hospital information system.

Aim: This study aims to develop a cloud-based digital healthcare system for precision medical hospital information systems (P-HIS). Methods: In 2020, international standardization of P-HIS clinical terms and codes was performed. In 2021, South Korea's first tertiary hospital cloud was established and implemented successfully. Results: P-HIS was applied at Korea's first tertiary general hospital. Common data model-compatible precision medicine/medical service solutions were developed for medical support. Ultrahigh-quality medical data for precision medicine were acquired and built using big data. Joint global commercialization and dissemination/spreading were achieved using the P-HIS consortium and global common data model-based observational medical outcome partnership network. Conclusion: To provide personalized precision medical services in the future, establishing and using big medical data is essential.

Getting AI Implementation Right: Insights from a Global Survey

While the promise of artificial intelligence (AI) is pervasive, many companies struggle with AI implementation challenges. This article presents results from a survey of 2,525 decision-makers with AI experience in China, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States—as well as interviews with 16 AI implementation experts—in order to understand the challenges companies face when implementing AI. The study covers technological, organizational, and cultural factors and identifies key challenges and solutions for AI implementation. This article develops a diagnostic framework to help executives navigate AI challenges as companies gain momentum, manage organization-wide complexities, and curate a network of partners, algorithms, and data sources to create value through AI.

Innovation in the Lubusz region. Implementation of an innovation managment system.

The article reveals the potential of innovation management in regions on the example of the Lubusz Voivodeship. The aim of the article is to analyse the latest activities and initiatives supporting innovation in the Lubusz Voivodeship. To this end, it was important to identify the nature of the implementation process of innovative solutions, which may be recognised as political, i.e.: characterised by top-down initiatives and bottom-up implementation. The method of document analysis was used in the study, including primary and secondary sources. As a result, conclusions and recommendations for regional policy to support innovation were drawn. They indicate the need to use the scientific potential of the University of Zielona Góra and other scientific and research institutions. They also reveal the need to strengthen the cooperation of the local self - government with the University for the development of innovation and creation of partnership networks in the region.

A Community-Driven Strategy for Addressing Fossil Taxonomy Challenges

Taxonomy has long been a cornerstone issue in the paleontological collections community, especially as digitization has enabled us to share data at a global scale. Communities of practice such as the Paleo Data Working Group (PDWG, Krimmel et al. 2021) have made concerted efforts to understand and evaluate challenges with the taxonomic information published via fossil occurrence records (Little et al. 2021, Little et al. 2022). Since 2020, PDWG has been leading discussions to define the nuances of challenges associated with fossil taxonomy, to look at the landscape of cyberinfrastructure tools available to tackle these challenges, and to develop community guidelines. This work has led to a deeper understanding of the full range of challenges surrounding the use of fossil taxonomy, from local practices and systems to representation at the data aggregator level. Here we share our initial strategy for tackling challenges with fossil data, particularly taxonomy, centered on developing a reusable framework for assessing and addressing issues so that data can be made more discoverable and usable for transformative and translational research. An essential element of this approach is the coordination of efforts across stakeholder communities. Through these collaborations, we ultimately seek to improve systems for handling and curating taxonomic data, increase the quality and discoverability of taxonomic data presented by aggregators, and better integrate data provided by fossil occurrence records into the research lifecycle. The required coordination will be driven through the development of a partner network from across the global bio- and geo- science data ecosystem. This network is composed of representatives with a variety of perspectives and roles, including participation from Catalogue of Life, Global Biodiversity Information Facility, and Biodiversity Information Standards (TDWG), as well as paleontology collections professionals (led by PDWG), informaticians, researchers, and other end-users. Integrating the existing PDWG community of practice into this larger network allows us to learn from work already underway in the landscape. In addition, recognizing that the paleo community is not alone in these challenges, we believe that a successful strategy for this network is to create processes and envision solutions that can be adapted by other disciplines with similar needs. Our strategy underscores the need for the combined efforts of both community engagement and evaluation of the existing technical landscape. Through this work we aim to establish an enhanced network of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable; Wilkinson et al. 2016) and research-ready fossil data, improving the support for and quality of fossil taxonomy data along the way.

Leveraging an implementation science partnership network to understand how Federally Qualified Health Centers operationalize and address health equity.

Health equity-focused implementation research requires using definitions and approaches that are relevant and meaningful to implementation partners. We examined how health equity was operationalized and addressed at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). We conducted semi-structured interviews with leadership (n = 19) and staff (n = 12) at 10 FQHCs in an implementation science partnership network for cancer control equity to understand how they operationalized and addressed health equity. We performed rapid qualitative analysis and shared findings with a larger group of 13 community health centers (including the 10 FQHCs) at an Implementation Learning Community (ILC) to identify action areas for research and practice, followed by a second phase of synthesizing qualitative codes into themes and mapping themes onto a framework for advancing health equity in healthcare organizations. Participants defined health equity as central to the mission of FQHCs, and identified barriers (e.g. financing models) and facilitators (e.g. interpreter services) to advancing health equity at FQHCs. These findings resonated with ILC participants who emphasized the challenge of addressing root cause social determinants of inequities using limited available resources in FQHCs and the importance of developing meaningful collaboration with communities for data collection, data interpretation, data use, and data ownership. Themes captured recommendations to advance health equity in daily work at FQHCs, including investments in staffing, training, and resources. Mapping qualitative themes from health equity-centered interviews with FQHC partners onto a framework for advancing health equity in healthcare organizations can provide clear, context-specific direction for actions aimed at improving health and healthcare equity.

Best Practices to Support the Self-Determination of Indigenous Communities, Collectives, and Organizations in Health Research through a Provincial Health Research Network Environment in British Columbia, Canada.

In Canada, the health research funding landscape limits the self-determination of Indigenous peoples in multiple ways, including institutional eligibility, priority setting, and institutional structures that deprioritize Indigenous knowledges. However, Indigenous-led research networks represent a promising approach to transforming the funding landscape to better support the self-determination of Indigenous peoples in health research. The British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR) is one of nine Indigenous-led networks across Canada that supports research leadership among Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) communities, collectives, and organizations (ICCOs). In this paper, we share three best practices to support the self-determination of ICCOs in health research based on three years of operating the BC NEIHR: (1) creating capacity-bridging initiatives to overcome funding barriers; (2) building relational research relationships with ICCOs ("people on the ground"); and (3) establishing a network of partnerships and collaborations to support ICCO self-determination. Supporting the self-determination of ICCOs and enabling them to lead their own health research is a critical pathway toward transforming the way Indigenous health research is funded and conducted in Canada.

Structural and functional studies of PCNA from African swine fever virus.

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) belongs to the DNA sliding clamp family. Via interacting with various partner proteins, PCNA plays critical roles in DNA replication, DNA repair, chromatin assembly, epigenetic inheritance, chromatin remodeling, and many other fundamental biological processes. Although PCNA and PCNA-interacting partner networks are conserved across species, PCNA of a given species is rarely functional in heterologous systems, emphasizing the importance of more representative PCNA studies. Here, we report two crystal structures of PCNA from African swine fever virus (ASFV), which is the only member of the Asfarviridae family. Compared to the eukaryotic and archaeal PCNAs and the sliding clamp structural homologs from other viruses, AsfvPCNA possesses unique sequences and/or conformations at several regions, such as the J-loop, interdomain-connecting loop (IDCL), P-loop, and C-tail, which are involved in partner recognition or modification of sliding clamps. In addition to double-stranded DNA binding, we also demonstrate that AsfvPCNA can modestly enhance the ligation activity of the AsfvLIG protein. The unique structural features of AsfvPCNA can serve as a potential target for the development of ASFV-specific inhibitors and help combat the deadly virus. IMPORTANCE Two high-resolution crystal structures of African swine fever virus proliferating cell nuclear antigen (AsfvPCNA) are presented here. Structural comparison revealed that AsfvPCNA is unique at several regions, such as the J-loop, the interdomain-connecting loop linker, and the P-loop, which may play important roles in ASFV-specific partner selection of AsfvPCNA. Unlike eukaryotic and archaeal PCNAs, AsfvPCNA possesses high double-stranded DNA-binding affinity. Besides DNA binding, AsfvPCNA can also modestly enhance the ligation activity of the AsfvLIG protein, which is essential for the replication and repair of ASFV genome. The unique structural features make AsfvPCNA a potential target for drug development, which will help combat the deadly virus.

Het bevorderen van het implementatieproces van Krachtvoer, een lesprogramma over gezonde voeding voor het vmbo

AbstractActively promoting the implementation process of health promotion interventions, ensuring their sufficient and appropriate use in practice, requires a planned approach. Many types of implementation strategies can be used for this purpose, selected on the basis of identified determinants of the implementation process in the specific implementation context. Several phases can be distinguished in the implementation process, namely adoption, actual use, sustainability, scaling up, and de-implementation of the intervention. This article describes which implementation strategies have been and are currently used to promote the implementation process of the educational program Power Food (Krachtvoer), an intervention on healthy nutrition for students in Dutch prevocational secondary schools. It also presents visitor data from the Krachtvoer.nu website during the 2019–2020, 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 school years. A reflection on the approach emphasizes the importance of the leading role of the cross-domain project team, the co-creation with users, and the intersectoral cooperation with the national partner network. A national (funding) policy in the Netherlands to support the sustainability of proven effective and well-implementable health promotion interventions is sorely missed.

The evolution of an oncology site network partnership in a COVID era clinical trial environment.

125 Background: As a leader in cancer therapy research, Roche created the immunotherapy Centers of Research Excellence (imCORE) Network, a worldwide research network designed to connect members in an open environment of shared information, expertise, and decisions. This network is dedicated to advancing the comprehension of the underlying science and shared operational challenges in order to accelerate the most promising new treatment options for patients. Pre-pandemic the imCORE network was an established partnership model leader with several years of experience. Relationships between site and sponsor were established and consistent. Regularly cadenced face to face and virtual meetings provided proven pathways for open communication and collaboration opportunities. A pipeline of operational efficiencies, pain point interventions, best practices and strategies were brainstormed, co-created, and implemented across multiple workstreams. COVID arrived in March of 2020 and over the course of the next months to years the world changed. These changes were felt acutely, directly impacted clinical research, and specifically impacted imCORE sites, their patients, the network, and how it operates. Methods: This paper focuses on the Roche Sponsored clinical trial operational excellence aspects of the network. Data is collected from network sites related to pre and "post" COVID priorities and impacts. The data is then analyzed to produce best practice recommendations for oncology research sites and networks. Results: It highlights the direct impacts of COVID to a sponsored trial site network. This includes specific measures the network has taken to evolve to fit the needs of its sites and their patients and presents a pathway forward for site networks to consider in the new reality of COVID era clinical trials. Conclusions: COVID impacted and continues to impact clinical research sites and sponsored trial networks in significant and lasting ways. Site and network operations need to evolve to meet the needs of patients and staff in this new reality.

Do the networks always reveal the truth? The case of tripartite business incubator in Kenya, Uganda and Zambia

PurposeThe existing literature on business incubators has rarely addressed network establishments thus far. The purpose of this study is to shed light on the process of network formation and its structure during the incubator creation process. The study focuses on establishing a network involving three key types of partners in the initial phase of setting up four agribusiness incubators. These partners come from universities, research organisations and private companies operating in a developing context.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses social network theory, using a combination of qualitative and network survey approaches in Kenya, Uganda and Zambia. The qualitative data were used to investigate partnership formation, while the network survey was conducted to map the organisational network of business incubator partners. Constructs of social network theory, including relational content, relational form, centrality of actors and instrumentality, were qualitatively measured in this study.FindingsThe findings indicate that partners rely on previous informal relationships, which are formalised during the creation of business incubator partnerships. In the African context, once these relationships are formalised, they become part of what is referred to as business networks, irrespective of the nature of the relationship content. Personal networks serve as precursors to establishing organisational networks that cater to incubated firms. Incubator partners facilitate the networking process and enhance the formation of new connections in the early-stage partnership-based tripartite business incubators. They act as brokers, bridging structural holes by coordinating actors across the hole and linking disconnected nodes by activating their sub-networks. The results reveal that the partners' level of embeddedness in various organisational settings increases the diversity of contacts integrated into the incubator networks. In terms of relational content, partners tend to perceive the ties as business-oriented, even though the content of the relationship may differ. The strength of relationships depends on their formalization and the frequency of interaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of the study contradict the reviewed social network literature, emphasising the necessity to adapt methodological approaches based on the cultural and institutional context in which they are applied. The social network questionnaire requires modification when used in different contexts and settings. Specifically, methodologies should be adjusted in situations where actors need to be discreet concerning their various relationships. It is important to note that organisational culture does influence actors' behaviours.Practical implicationsThis study is deemed relevant to managers and practitioners of business incubators alike. It highlights that understanding the contextual factors that influence networking practices, the type and strength of networks and the resources provided to participants are crucial elements that should be considered in future policy and intervention initiatives.Originality/valueThis paper addresses the identified gap in examining network formation during the establishment of business incubators. The research is significant as it provides insights into networking at the incubator level of analysis within a tripartite business incubator setup. Ultimately, this paper helps increase our understanding of networking within the context of emerging countries.

Challenges in implementing sustainable construction

AbstractIn response to the alarming environmental problems, there is a pressing need for a fundamental shift towards sustainable construction. However, limited attention has been given in the literature to the governance of this transformative change. The paper aims to address this research gap by investigating how the transition to sustainable construction can be realized despite the barriers encountered. The analysis focuses on the Dutch Building Agreement Steel as an illustrative case. By examining the governance structure of the Agreement and evaluating its results thus far, the study concludes that a collaborative network of partners has effectively developed a roadmap and performed accompanying activities to achieve the intended objectives. Nonetheless, a key challenge lies in mobilizing the entire construction steel chain and the government during the upcoming scale‐up phase to actively adhere to the Agreement. This new form of network governance, facilitated by an independent intermediary, does not replace traditional public governance; rather, it complements it. The approach tested in the Netherlands holds potential for application in other contexts as well.

HUBUNGAN KAPASITAS PETANI DENGAN KEBERLANJUTAN USAHA PETANI TANAMAN HIAS DI KELURAHAN BENDE KECAMATAN KADIA KOTA KENDARI

The purpose of this study was to determine the capacity of farmers and business sustainability in ornamental plant business and to determine the relationship between farmer capacity and business sustainability of ornamental plant farmers in Bende Village, Kadia District, Kendari City. The determination of the research location was carried out purposively with the consideration that the research location was a center for ornamental plants in Kendari City. The sample in this study was 22 farmers who were taken by the census method. Data collection by way of interviews, surveys, and documentation and using a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. Data analysis used the class interval formula and Spearman rank correlation with the help of SPSS 26. The results of this study indicate that the capacity of ornamental plant farmers in Bende Sub-district which consists of social capacity is dominantly determined by the ability to build partnership networks with a percentage of 45.45%, managerial capacity, dominance is determined by the ability to communicate in problem-solving with a percentage of 54.55% and technical capacity, dominant is determined by the ability to carry out plant nurseries with a percentage of 45.45%. Business continuity in Bende Village consists of social sustainability, dominantly determined by education level with a percentage of 63.63%, economic sustainability, dominantly determined by marketing ability with a percentage of 45.45% and environmental sustainability, dominantly determined by the ability to keep the business environment clean with a percentage of 54 .55%. There is a close and significant relationship between farmer capacity and business sustainability with a correlation coefficient of 0.711 with a significant level of 0.000.

Community Empowerment through Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the Department of Industry and Trade Cooperatives in Sampang District, Sampang Regency

The existence of MSMEs in Sampang Regency is not all MSMEs can be fostered by related agencies. The existing problems includes weaknesses in access to information, lack of infrastructure assistance and capital fertilization, lack of HR skills and weaknesses in partnership networks. The purpose of this study is to empower the community of MSME actors to achieve a society that is independent, self-sufficient, able to adopt innovations and develop MSMEs. Community empowerment carried out to MSME actors uses three aspects, namely, Enabling, Protecting, and Empowering. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach, then the data collection technique used is an interview and documentation technique with five informants, namely the State Civil Apparatus as many as three people and the community or MSME actors two people who refer to purposive sampling techniques. The data analysis used is an interactive model analysis technique from Miles and Huberman. The results of the study obtained an explanation that community empowerment through Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the Diskopindag in Sampang District, Sampang Regency did not run optimally after being analyzed using three indicators of community empowerment because there are still many obstacles that are not in accordance with the expectations of MSME actors. So it can be concluded that community empowerment through Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises at the Department of Industry and Trade Cooperative in Sampang District, Sampang Regency, can be said to have not run optimally.

Competitive agricultural input markets in Ethiopia: Theoretical promises versus reality

AbstractUsing the agency theory framework to develop conceptual frameworks, this study investigates the main challenges to and potential determinants of competitive agricultural input markets by comparing intervention and control districts. Specifically, this study examines the impact of the Agriculture One‐Stop Shop Project on the competitiveness of agricultural input markets in Ethiopia. The paper uses data collected from farmers and project stakeholders through interviews and focus group discussions and compiles recorded price and quantity sold for each agricultural input for four years. The study employs a content analysis, concentration ratio, market margin, and pooled panel regression models to analyze the set of data. The finding shows the existence of weak innovative system functions that is the mirror of unsatisfactory project outcomes in some intervention areas. Overall, the findings indicate that the project has increased competition by reducing market margins and relative prices, delivering a high quantity of high‐quality agricultural inputs, and providing new services and a range of input choices. An input market's level of competitiveness is determined by contractual arrangements, capital, background, and risk management. An agricultural input market's function system is influenced by the structural composition of the public–private partnership network, coordination, and cooperation. The one‐stop‐shop approach, operationalized through institutional arrangements, has the potential to facilitate and coordinate the functions necessary to change competitiveness in the agricultural input market. This study's panel model results show that the project has had statistically significant effects on the competitiveness of the agricultural input markets. The government should replicate this new approach throughout the country going forward.