Recommended Management Practices Research Articles

Does Green Finance Enhance the Ecological Value Level of Cultivated Land? Evidence from Mainland China

The ecological value of cultivated land contributes to a harmonious agricultural environment. Green finance support is essential to promoting the ecological value of cultivated land. Nevertheless, research specifically centered on cultivated land as a primary focus remains limited in exploring the relationship between ecological value and green finance, ignoring the fact that green finance can bolster ecological functions and drive sustainable practices. To address this gap, an objective indicator of the cultivated land ecological value level was introduced, and its variations at both the provincial and national levels from 2003 to 2022 were investigated. Results indicate that the cultivated land ecological value level increased over time, with higher values clustering spatially in southern regions. Subsequently, specific spatial correlations between the cultivated land ecological value level and green finance support were revealed using a spatial Durbin model. The results show that green finance support enhanced the cultivated land ecological value level, with its spatial lag term being particularly pronounced. These correlations were evident in eastern regions but were insignificant in western regions. Furthermore, a detailed range of spatial indirect spillover effects was estimated, demonstrating that the spatial effects on other provinces were positive when the geographic distance between them was close. In summary, these conclusions offer practical recommendations for the eco-friendly management of cultivated land, including strategies for vertical collaboration between central and local administrations and horizontal adaptation by governments in the east, central, and west regions based on local conditions.

Privacy paradox stems from overconfidence: a study of users’ privacy disclosure in online knowledge communities

ABSTRACT In OKCs, knowledge sharing is the main activity of users. However, the process of sharing knowledge inevitably discloses privacy. Understanding users’ privacy-disclosure behavior in OKCs is crucial for community development. In order to expose the phenomenon of privacy-disclosure behavior and privacy paradox in OKC, this study employs an explanatory sequential mixed methods design to explore the relationships among users’ privacy literacy (PL), the privacy paradox, and privacy-disclosure intentions in OKCs. We developed a research model based on privacy calculus and protective motivation theory, testing it among 442 long-term OKC users. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with 25 users provide qualitative insights. This paper indicates that many OKC users overestimate their PL, which influences their privacy-disclosure intentions and contributes to the privacy paradox. This implies that overestimating PL may be another reason for the privacy paradox. Furthermore, privacy attitudes and subjective norms emerge as significant factors shaping users’ decisions to disclose personal information, with peer perceptions playing a crucial role in users’ disclosure behaviors. This study contributes to the existing literature on privacy issues in OKCs by shedding light on the complexities surrounding users’ privacy behaviors. It offers practical recommendations for community managers and users to enhance privacy protection.

Does intercultural communication competence, cultural sensitivity, and temporal flexibility related to employee engagement? Moderation of negative emotions with COVID-19

The present study investigated the intercultural interactions among Indian IT professionals who collaborated remotely with international teams in response to the significant shift prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these factors is crucial for fostering successful collaborations and sustaining high levels of employee engagement in an increasingly virtual workplace. Data were obtained from Indian IT sector employees who collaborated with international teams or clients during the pandemic and were working remotely from their homes while communicating with intercultural teams and clients. The study analyzed data from a sample of 305 employees using structural equation modeling. The results revealed significant positive associations between intercultural communication competence, cultural sensitivity, and temporal flexibility with employee engagement. The results suggest that negative emotions during the pandemic weakened the positive relationship between intercultural communicative competence and employee engagement. Navigating the difficulties of remote IT work during the pandemic necessitates prioritizing intercultural competencies and acknowledging the substantial association of negative emotions. Our findings offer practical recommendations for IT managers seeking to improve team dynamics and foster employee involvement in intercultural work settings with a rapidly changing work environment.

Green Technology Innovation and Corporate Reputation: Key Drivers of ESG and Firm Performance

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and firm performance within China's manufacturing sector, with a novel focus on the mediating effect of green technology innovation and the moderating influence of corporate reputation. Using a 2011-2022 dataset from A-share listed manufacturing companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the study employs multiple regression analysis with a two-way fixed-effects model to examine these relationships. Findings indicate that robust ESG practices significantly enhance company performance, mediated by green technological innovation. However, a negative moderating effect of corporate reputation suggests that higher corporate reputation weakens the ESG-financial performance relationship. Further analyses reveal that privately-owned firms, those in China's eastern region, and environmentally sustainable industries benefit most from strong ESG initiatives. This study addresses the challenge of disentangling key variables by analyzing their interconnected effects. The findings fill a gap in the existing literature by contributing to a deeper understanding of the relationship between ESG and corporate success, particularly through the mediating role of innovation and the moderating influence of reputation. Additionally, the study provides practical recommendations for managers and policymakers to enhance ESG strategies, promote growth, and support sustainable development. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-06-021 Full Text: PDF

INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: USCOM IV Algorithm for the Prevention and Management of Targeted Therapy-Related Cutaneous Adverse Events.

Targeted therapy has improved clinical outcomes for various types of cancer. However, their use is associated with dermatologic adverse events that impact quality of life and consistent therapies. The US Cutaneous Oncodermatology Management (USCOM) multidisciplinary-guided algorithm for preventing and managing cutaneous targeted therapy-related adverse events provides practical recommendations for cancer patients and survivors. The USCOM advisory board (panel) identified 6 commonly occurring cutaneous adverse events associated with targeted therapies. Practical recommendations for prevention and management were developed based on the results of a literature search, clinical expertise, and opinion. Acneiform rash, pruritus, xerosis, paronychia, hyperpigmentation, and hand-foot skin reaction were selected as common targeted therapy-related cutaneous adverse events. The panel provides practical steps for preventing and treating these cutaneous conditions. The USCOM multidisciplinary-guided algorithm is for healthcare providers treating oncology patients receiving targeted therapies. Cutaneous targeted therapy-related adverse events necessitate prompt and accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary management that includes a dermatologist and the oncologic team, limiting disruption of cancer treatment and optimizing quality of life and treatment outcomes. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23:12(Suppl 1):s3-14.

Supply Chain Resilience for E-commerce: Strategies for Managing Uncertainty and Ensuring Continuity

In today’s volatile global economy, supply chain resilience is essential for e-commerce companies that face dynamic demand and unforeseen disruptions. This study evaluated resilience strategies, focusing on risk management, inventory optimization, and supplier diversification, with an emphasis on financial impacts. Through a combination of qualitative analysis and financial data, the findings revealed that integrating traditional resilience methods with advanced technologies significantly enhances stability and continuity. This article provided a comprehensive framework for managing supply chain uncertainties and offers practical recommendations for e-commerce managers.

Analyze The Marketing Mix Strategy In Enhancing The Competitiveness Of Bank Permata Community Channel Division

This study aims to analyze the marketing mix strategy in enhancing the competitiveness of Bank Permata's Community Channel Division. The marketing mix strategy, consisting of product, price, place, promotion, people, process, and physical evidence (7P), is applied to understand how each element contributes to the bank's competitive advantage. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach, involving in-depth interviews with managers and staff of the Community Channel Division, as well as analysis of internal bank documents and reports. The results of the study indicate that the effective implementation of the marketing mix strategy can enhance customer satisfaction, loyalty, and brand image, ultimately improving Bank Permata's competitiveness. These findings provide practical recommendations for Bank Permata's management to continuously optimize their marketing strategies to achieve sustainable competitive advantage.

Project management challenges in client‐consultant decision‐making: A case for the Ghanaian mining construction industry

AbstractThis study explores the complex decision‐making (DM) dynamics between clients and consultants, a crucial area often neglected in existing research. Utilizing a Multi‐Perspective Approach combined with Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis, we examine DM challenges such as cost overruns, project delays, and compromised work quality stemming from ineffective DM practices. Key findings highlight the pervasive fear of financial repercussions from poor decisions, which impedes decisive and transparent DM. We offer practical recommendations for managers, propose strategies to strengthen DM processes, enhance project execution frameworks and insights to improve operational efficiency and competitive advantages for Ghanaian mining construction sector stakeholders. This study significantly contributes to the literature on project management by offering targeted solutions and advancing knowledge on DM practices.

Role of trace minerals in cow’s reproductive function and performance: a clinical theriogenology perspective*

Trace minerals (TM) have a crucial role in cattle reproduction. Although microelements are required in small amounts, their bioavailability is essential for the cow reproductive physiology, and for adequate fertility and productivity. They are particularly important for antioxidant protection against cellular damage (e.g. gametes and embryonic cells), hormone synthesis, and pregnancy maintenance. Oral TM supplementation is a common and highly recommended management practice in cattle operations. However, there is substantial variability in TM bioavailability in animals receiving oral TM supplementation. The strategic use of injectable TM supplementation (without replacing traditional oral TM supplements) before episodes of marked stress (e.g. parturition), higher metabolic demand with TM depletion (e.g. last trimester of pregnancy), active immune response (e.g. uterine involution or vaccination), and before breeding helps to maintain adequate TM and oxidative status during critical points of the reproductive program. This manuscript reviews the research-based evidence regarding the effects of TM supplementation on bovine reproduction and its impact on beef and dairy cattle reproductive performance.

Enhancing environmental sustainability through lean construction principles: an industry-based SEM analysis

PurposeIn the modern era, the concept of sustainability has become pervasive, permeating various sectors, including the construction industry. Driven by growing environmental concerns, construction organizations are increasingly compelled to seek operational excellence while realigning their practices towards environmental sustainability goals. Hence, this paper investigates the capability of lean construction (LC) principles in enhancing environmental performance (EP) within the construction industry using a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs SEM to explore the relationship between LC components and environmental performance factors in the construction context. This methodology integrates both empirical and qualitative analyses within a structured framework to explore the relationship between LC components and EP factors in the construction context. By collecting and statistically testing data from 307 Moroccan construction companies, the study evaluates the impact of five LC principles – process transparency and standardization, continuous improvement, waste elimination, planning and scheduling and material flow and pull – on four environmental performance indicators: material use, energy consumption, non-product output and pollutant releases.FindingsThe analysis reveals that, among the five LC principles – process transparency and standardization, continuous improvement, waste elimination, planning and scheduling and material flow and pull – the principles of waste elimination and planning and scheduling significantly contribute to environmental improvements. These practices were shown to impact positively four environmental performance indicators: material use, energy consumption, non-product output and pollutant releases.Originality/valueThis research fills a critical gap in empirical studies on the beneficial effects of LC practices on environmental sustainability in the construction industry. It provides theoretical insights and practical recommendations for managers and practitioners to effectively implement LC principles, thereby promoting more efficient and sustainable practices, particularly in developing countries.

Relationships between yield, enzymatic activity, and chemical properties across different soil layers and phenological stages of grapevines in southern Brazil

The activities of the enzymes β-glucosidase (GLU) and arylsulfatase (ARYL) in annual crop soils can now be determined in several commercial laboratories in Brazil. The results are used to assess soil quality and recommend management practices. However, this technology is not yet available for vineyards. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the activities of soil GLU and ARYL enzymes are related to grapevine yield and chemical properties in sandy vineyard soils, and to define the phenological stage of the crop and the soil sampling layer that best characterize these relationships. Soil and plant samples were collected in a commercial Vitis vinifera L. vineyard located in the extreme south of Brazil during the 2022/23. The soil was sampled in three layers (0–0.05, 0–0.10, and 0–0.20 m) and at four phenological stages (bud burst, full flowering, veraison, and post-harvest). The activities of the soil enzymes GLU and ARYL, the nutrient content of the soil and the leaf, the quality of the must, and the relative yield (RY) of the grapevine were evaluated. The RY was related to the activity of these enzymes. The best regression model adjustments were observed after harvest and in the 0–0.10 m layer. Enzyme activity was also significantly related to soil organic C and total N, as well as other soil properties, mainly P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, and Mn. The activities of GLU and ARYL enzymes were related to grapevine yield and chemical properties in sandy vineyard soils and soil sampling in the 0–0.10 m layer after harvest is recommended.

Perceived value, service quality and behavioral intentions towards bike-sharing services: Using an extended technology acceptance model

In recent years, the bike-sharing industry has experienced rapid development as a business model but still faces several challenges. Prior research has predominantly focused on bicycle service quality and traffic safety from the perspective of companies. This article takes a consumer-centered approach and incorporates security as a crucial perceptual factor into the technology acceptance model. Drawing on the consumer perceived value theory, we employ app perceived value and bicycle perceived value as mediating variables to construct a model of consumers' behavioral intentions to use bike-sharing. The study finds that app perceived value and bicycle perceived value are strong predictors of consumers' willingness to use bike-sharing. At the same time, app perceived value also indirectly affects their perceived behavioral control of using bike-sharing through the mediating role of bicycle perceived value. Furthermore, the perceived usefulness, ease of use, and security of the app are found to positively impact app perceived value, which in turn increases the preference for bike-sharing of consumers. In conclusion, these findings provide practical management recommendations for bike-sharing companies to balance and enhance app services and the quality of the bicycle, thus enabling the ride-hailing ecosystem to generate more sustainable urban transport solutions.

Does work overload of odd-job platform workers lead to turnover intention? An empirical study on platform workers

PurposeAgainst the background of the digital economy, odd-job platforms rely on artificial intelligence algorithms to efficiently allocate tasks and monitor platform workers’ performance, putting these workers under enormous pressure. This paper explores the relationship between work overload and turnover intention of platform workers on odd-job platforms and the factors that lead to platform workers’ turnover.Design/methodology/approachBased on the job demands–resources model (JD-R), we construct a theoretical model to explain the relationship between work overload and turnover intention of platform workers. We test job burnout as a mediator variable and perceived algorithmic fairness and job autonomy as moderating variables. We conducted a study at food delivery platforms and ride-hailing platforms in China.FindingsThe empirical results show that: (1) work overload increases the turnover intention of platform workers by increasing job burnout and (2) perceived algorithmic fairness and job autonomy moderate the positive relationship between work overload and job burnout.Originality/valueWe provide a theoretical basis to explain the influence of work overload on turnover intention of odd-job platform workers and provide practical recommendations for management of platform workers.

The Impact of Unfair Compensation on Employee Morale, Job Satisfaction, and Performance: A Quantitative Analysis in Pakistan’s Health Sector

The main aim of this article is to investigate how the unjust compensation structure affects the motivation, contentment, and performance of Pakistani healthcare professionals working for different healthcare institutions. The theoretical foundation of this study is based on equity theory. The authors administered a self-completed structured questionnaire survey to 381 employees from a variety of organizational sectors, using a PLS-SEM technique to analyze the relationships between variables. The outcomes from this research show that perceived unfair compensation decreases organizational commitment, organizational citizenship behavior, job satisfaction, and performance. The findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of compensation equity and offer practical recommendations for human resource managers to improve organizational success through the correction of pay disparities. It highlights the broader importance of equitable remuneration practices in all businesses. A future study could broaden its scope by incorporating longitudinal and cross-national studies to further corroborate the findings.

Coupling Relationships and Driving Mechanisms of Water–Energy–Food in China from the Perspective of Supply and Demand Security

The rapid increase in population and economy, coupled with accelerated urbanization, is placing immense pressure on the water–energy–food (WEF) system. In this context, the water–energy–food nexus framework has emerged, recognizing the interdependencies and interactions among water, energy, and food systems, with the aim of optimizing resource management through cross-sectoral collaboration to promote sustainable development. Understanding the spatio-temporal differentiation patterns of the WEF nexus and elucidating the driving mechanisms behind changes in their coupling relationships is essential. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring the security of each subsystem and enhancing the overall sustainability of interconnected systems through coordinated efforts. To address these challenges, this study first established evaluation indicators for water, energy, and food security to quantify their levels and spatio-temporal dynamics. Subsequently, the degrees of coupling coordination within the WEF nexus were calculated. Finally, the WEF nexus’s spatial correlations were analyzed by using a spatial autocorrelation model. Spatial econometric models then identified key factors affecting its coordination. The results revealed significant spatial heterogeneity in water, energy, and food security across mainland China’s provinces. From 2002 to 2022, water security improved substantially in 87% of the provinces, while energy security began to improve in the eastern regions following a phase of high consumption. Food security saw significant enhancements, particularly in Inner Mongolia and the northeastern provinces. The overall coupling coordination of the WEF nexus improved across 30 provinces, progressing toward primary coordination. However, Henan and Anhui provinces experienced fluctuations in WEF nexus coordination. Spatial correlation analysis showed upward trends and increased clustering in WEF nexus coordination. Factors such as economic development and population positively influenced coordination, while economic agglomeration, education, and effective irrigation area had negative effects. This study elucidates the complex interconnections and key influencing factors within the WEF nexus, providing a reference framework and practical recommendations for equitable resource management.

The Impact of Meaningful Influencer Collaborations on Hospitality Businesses

Influencer marketing has become a significant concept in the hospitality sector, transforming traditional marketing and customer engagement methods. This research paper aims to investigate the impact of meaningful collaborations among the stakeholders within the hospitality industry. Additionally, it focuses on its impact on brand awareness, customer collaboration, and booking rates. By analyzing a range of social media influencers, this study aims to explore effective strategies and outcomes for marketing campaigns. The insights gained will provide a deeper understanding of how strategic partnerships can be leveraged to optimize investments and foster growth in the hospitality industry. The study is exploratory in nature with elements of primary and secondary data with a qualitative approach. A stratified sampling was used to ensure representation of different hospitality establishments (hotels, restaurants, etc.), influencer categories (mega, macro, micro, nano influencers) and the other stakeholders of the industry. The findings of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of influencer marketing within the hotel industry and offer practical recommendations for hotel managers and marketing professionals seeking to leverage these strategies to enhance their brand and market presence.

Research of Practices of Formation and Development of Human Capital in Companies of Various Industries on the Russian Market

Almost all global trends create a synergistic effect, which increases the importance of forming and developing human capital to ensure the survival of companies in the market and their confidence in the future, regardless of their size and type of activity. However, despite the unflagging and continued interest of the scientific community in the issues related to human capital, there are still many “white spots” in this area. The aim of this work is to explore the approaches to forming and developing human capital applied by companies doing business in Russia in the current realities and modern conditions, to identify industry specifics and to outline recommendations. To achieve this goal, the authors conducted a questionnaire survey of managers of enterprises from different segments of the economy. As a result of the analysis of the obtained data, the conclusions were made that not all organisations have a generally accepted definition of HR and not everywhere there are procedures for its assessment. The problems related to personnel development, creation of competitive labour conditions for employees, search for potential employees and internal filling of vacancies were also revealed. The methodology of this work is based on a systemic approach and surveying, as well as general scientific methods such as synthesis, analysis, comparison, and generalization. Research results: Despite the fact that, in the opinion of the authors of the study, it did not consider all the problems of human capital formation and its impact on the sustainability of organisations, the obtained results allowed for the identification of the peculiarities of approaches to forming and developing human capital, considering industry specifics, and can be useful to develop practical recommendations for managers of companies aimed at improving this activity. Originality: This study presents, for the first time, a comprehensive overview of the approaches to forming and developing human capital in companies across various industries in the Russian labor market.

Sustainable agriculture through qanat systems in Karabakh: Water and soil characteristics in the context of climate change

This study investigates the water quality and soil characteristics associated with qanat systems in the Cebrail district of the Karabakh region, Azerbaijan. Qanat systems, traditional underground channels designed for water transport, play a crucial role in providing reliable water sources for drinking and irrigation. Water and soil samples were collected from seven qanat systems and analyzed for various physicochemical properties. Water quality parameters included pH, electrical conductivity, hardness, mineralization, and concentrations of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and other ions. Soil analyses focused on pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content, salinization degree, and the presence of key ions like sulfate and nitrate. The results indicated that qanat water is generally of high quality, with pH levels suitable for both drinking and irrigation. However, some qanat systems exhibited high electrical conductivity and mineralization levels, suggesting potential salinity issues for sensitive crops. Soil samples showed favorable conditions for agriculture, with good pH levels, low salinity, and high organic matter content. The analysis revealed a significant interaction between water quality and soil characteristics, emphasizing the importance of integrated management practices. In the context of climate change, the sustainability of qanat systems is critical. Recommendations include regular monitoring of water and soil quality, soil amendments to mitigate salinity, efficient irrigation techniques, and the use of climate-resilient infrastructure. This study underscores the importance of qanat systems in arid and semi-arid regions and provides practical recommendations for sustainable land and water resource management, enhancing the socio-economic well-being of local communities.

Management of IT projects of business analytics in the BANI environment

In the modern world, the business environment is becoming increasingly unstable, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (BANI – Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, Incomprehensible). These new realities create serious challenges for the management of IT projects for the creation of business analytics, requiring managers to adapt new approaches and tools for effective project management. The article aims to investigate the specifics of IT project management in the BANI environment, identify key success factors, and develop recommendations for project managers. The study is based on an analysis of current literature, as well as on empirical data collected through surveys and interviews with experienced IT project managers. Key aspects considered include – flexibility and adaptability, effective communication, innovation and creativity, risk management, emotional intelligence. The results of the study emphasize the need to integrate agile methodologies (Agile, Scrum) and project management tools, such as JIRA, Trello and others, to ensure effective project management in the BANI environment. It also highlights the importance of continuous training and development of both technical and soft skills for successful IT project management. The study provides important insights and practical recommendations for IT project managers working in BANI environments, helping to improve their ability to adapt to new challenges and achieve successful results.

Strategic management of rural art museums in southern Zhejiang province, China: A mixed approach

Restoration of rural art museums in southern Zhejiang is important for regional and national development. Therefore, this study focuses on the strategic management issues of rural art museums in southern Zhejiang in the context of revitalization. This research sets three objectives: (1) to study and analyze rural art museums; (2) to synthesize strategic management; and (3) to create, propose, and define strategic management. This study used a mixed approach, with 300 stakeholders from five rural art museums in southern Zhejiang. The results show that elements of the strategic management model for rural art museums in southern Zhejiang Province can be determined. From the second objective, it is possible to formulate and implement a strategic management model in accordance with empirical data. An operational manual was developed and divided into 15 items for the strategic management of rural art museums that could be adapted to the southern region of Zhejiang Province. However, based on the questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and field visits, the average satisfaction with the level of rural art museum management was 3.27, with a standard deviation of 1.32. The average satisfaction score for the exhibition was 3.27 with a standard deviation of 1.38. Similarly, the average overall satisfaction with rural art museum was 3.4 with a standard deviation of 1.23. This study provides theoretical support and practical recommendations for strategic management of rural art museums. This study provides valuable insights into rural art museum research across the country. It also opens up new perspectives for the study of regional relations within the academic community and increases the depth and breadth of academic discussions.