Strategic Management Research Articles

Designing effective policy to achieve sustainable development impact of FDI: the case of Sub-Saharan Africa

AbstractTo optimize the sustainable development impact of foreign direct investment (FDI), developing countries must attract FDI that aligns with sustainable development characteristics. This necessitates an understanding of host governments’ expectations and the design of policies tailored to these needs. This study aims to address the gap in international business policy research by assessing FDI policy designs and identifying conditions that influence their effectiveness in attaining sustainable development outcomes. Building on a policy design fit model, we develop propositions related to the coherence of policy goals (goal coherence), the consistency of policy means (mean consistency), and the congruence between goals and means. Using crisp-set qualitative comparative analysis, we evaluate FDI policies in selected Sub-Saharan African countries. Contrary to conventional expectations, our findings reveal that while the combination of goal coherence, mean consistency, and congruence between goals and means is typically considered pertinent for policy design effectiveness, goal coherence alone is sufficient to attain FDI policy design effectiveness in the sampled countries. These results suggest that policymakers should prioritize clear, coherent goals in FDI policies to enhance sustainable development impact, potentially reducing the need for overly complex policy designs. This has implications for the formulation of future FDI strategies in similar contexts.

Sustainability Based Financial Risk Management Strategies For Long Term Resilience: A Systematic Review

This study conducted a systematic literature review on the application of sustainability principles in financial risk management in the banking, agriculture, infrastructure, and decentralized technology sectors. By utilizing a sustainability-based approach and early warning metrics, this study identified significant benefits that can strengthen the financial resilience of organizations to long-term uncertainty. The findings show that this approach is not only effective in reducing financial risks but also generates social and environmental benefits, such as improved reputation, public trust, and strengthened stakeholder relationships. However, the implementation of this approach is faced with challenges, including limited resources, low awareness among organizations, and minimal regulations that support the adoption of sustainability in risk management. Recommendations from this study include the development of more supportive regulations, increased investment in predictive technology, and further in-depth research to strengthen the integration of sustainability in financial risk management. These findings are expected to encourage the adoption of a more strategic, responsive, and sustainable risk management approach, which can ultimately improve organizational resilience in the future.

The role of university patents in building strategic management

With the challenges that arise in the 21st century, the creation of new products, processes or brands has become even more of a priority for global economic growth. In several countries, universities are the "engine" of efforts to create and commercialise scientific discoveries and improve the social welfare and benefits of the population. Two challenges inherent in licensing technology from universities are making all managers aware of the benefits of investing in research that generates innovations and determining the final commercial value of a technology that is at an early stage of development. The aim of this paper is to review the latest approaches to strategic management, particularly in the area of patents created by universities and how the effects of intentional and unintentional signalling impact institutionally.

The Role of Strategic Management Accounting Techniques in the Improvement of A Company’s Financial Performance: The Case of low-cost Airlines

This article presents a unique exploration of the role of Strategic Management Accounting techniques in supporting decision-making. This perspective has not been extensively studied in the context of low-cost airlines. This accounting branch is characterized by providing external, financial, non-financial, long-term, and forward-looking information, expanding the informational framework for strategic management and decision-making. The methodology relies on the application questionnaires and the financial performance analysis of fifteen low-cost airlines in America and Europe. Structural equation models were applied to test the relationships among the variables. The results evidence that the strategic management accounting techniques that positively and significantly affect the financial performance of the analyzed low-cost airlines are the ones related to the group of costing and strategic decision-making.

Analysis of the Scientific Production on Direct Consumer Behavior

The objective of the research was to analyze the scientific contributions that underpin the behavior of the direct consumer. The methodology was basic, non-experimental design, exploratory-explanatory scope, whose sample consisted of 30 articles. The results showed that the analysis of behaviors can also be developed through the collection of information about the preferences and interests of consumers; there are also various variables that intervene in the behavior of consumers, which is why the analysis of these aspects must be taken into account for the formulation of precise strategies. Concluding that, it is possible to get to know the consumer and the reasons, both internal and external, that involve their decision making, therefore it is significant to be able to factor them to allow it to be visualized with a broad panorama and to know how it impacts them and its evolution.

Ghana’s Strategic Energy Stocks: A Policy Based Review

This study sought to assess Ghana’s strategic stocks policy through the lens of the national energy policy and the realities and dynamics of the energy industry. Employing a theoretical policy appraisal approach and interviews with industry experts, the study established that strategic stock management faces challenges which primarily hinge on inadequate refinery and storage capacity, and inadequate strategic stock of petroleum and refined products. The study recommends nationwide strategic stock policy education, regulations to ensure order with the policy framework, and alternative models such as public-private partnerships (PPPs) to ensure a reliable supply of petroleum products, and to support the maintenance and upgrade of the storage infrastructure.

Oneiros: The Sports Club: navigating the growth path

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, the students will be able to analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with business expansion in any business, assess the significance of leveraging existing strengths versus exploring new markets for organizational growth, evaluate the implications of regional consolidation versus national expansion strategies, develop strategic thinking and decision-making skills in a competitive business landscape and understand the nuances of market dynamics, brand recognition and operational challenges in diverse geographical regions. Case overview/synopsis Oneiros – The Sports Club stood poised at a pivotal juncture, grappling with a strategic quandary that encapsulates the divergent visions of its leadership. The narrative unfolded in Surat, a vibrant city in the state of Gujarat where contrasting viewpoints champion the familiar stability of local success against the lure of uncharted state and national territories. Ms Hemali Shah advocated for consolidating the club’s triumphs in Gujarat, emphasizing on the parameters of brand loyalty and operational mastery. In stark contrast, Mr Robin Patel envisioned a bold expansion strategy across the state, aiming for brand recognition and a paradigm shift to regional prominence. Caught amidst these competing visions, Mr Sumit Lathia who was aspiring for the club’s national presence navigated the complexities of market dynamics and business model, oscillating between preserving familiarity and embracing the allure of ambition. This case study highlights the nuanced strategic dilemmas faced by Oneiros, offering a captivating exploration of growth strategies in a competitive landscape. With insights from various perspectives within the organization, this case study navigates the complexities of growth, market dynamics and the balance between familiarity and ambition. This case study offers valuable insights and practical applications for students pursuing regular Master of Business Administration (MBA) and executive MBA programs, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate studies in entrepreneurship and strategic management. By examining the strategic decisions and operational challenges faced by Lathia and Oneiros – The Sports Club, students can gain a deeper understanding of key concepts such as public–private partnerships, market expansion strategies, customer segmentation and revenue diversification. Complexity academic level This case study is positioned within the decision-making or business development modules of the curriculum. It serves as a platform to apply theoretical concepts of strategic decision-making, market analysis and growth strategies to a real-world scenario. This case study prompts students to critically evaluate expansion dilemmas and devise strategic solutions. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code Strategy.

A Tale of an Airlines Company: Towards A Model of Strategy Formulation Through the Lenses of Sustainable Development Goal

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to explore a few insights into the national airlines of Bangladesh (called Biman) and how they can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Further, the paper evaluates the available strategies using IEF, EFE, SWOT, IE & QSPM matrices/techniques as proposed by David & David (2017). Theoretical Framework: IFE (Internal Factor Evaluation) & EFE (External Factor Evaluation (e.g. input stage), SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threats) & IE (Internal and External) matrix (e.g. matching stage), and finally QSPM (Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix) (e.g. decision-making stage) are used for strategy formulation. Method: This study applies a mixed-method approach. Face-to-face interviews with the passengers of London-Dhaka-London are conducted, and additionally, the content analysis of relevant newspapers and journal articles is carried out. Results and Discussion: QSPM finds, that market development (priority-1), offensive strategy (priority-2), and product development (priority-3) are the appropriate strategies for the airline.It would be not easy to generalize the results as the study is based on one public airline company in a particular country (Bangladesh). Research Implications: This study has both theoretical and practical implications. The study demonstrates how to formulate plans using a quantitative method. The result of this study might be beneficial to Bangladesh's Civil Aviation Authority. The recommendations of this study may help generate profits in Biman. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the strategy literature. Strategy development processes for any business, including aviation, may be eye-opening.

Approaching onchocerciasis elimination in Equatorial Guinea: Near zero transmission and public health implication.

Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are endemic in Equatorial Guinea with notable variations in disease incidence between island and mainland regions. Historically, efforts to control and map these diseases were concentrated in Bioko Island, where loiasis is absent, allowing for targeted onchocerciasis interruption strategies. With the cessation of onchocerciasis transmission on Bioko and no reported cases on Annobon island, assessing the transmission status in the previously unaddressed mainland region has become imperative. Mapping efforts in mainland Equatorial Guinea have proven low to moderate level of transmission for LF and onchocerciasis, although the results so far have not been very conclusive. The current study aims to update the prevalence estimates for onchocerciasis and LF in mainland Equatorial Guinea using various diagnostic techniques. This is the first cross-sectional study carried out to estimate the prevalence of onchocerciasis and LF in the mainland area of Equatorial Guinea, from September to December 2019, based on the combination of skin snip biopsies, thick blood smears, laboratory serological tests (ELISA tests for the detection of IgG4 antibodies against Onchocerca volvulus recombinant antigen Ov16 and Wuchereria bancrofti recombinant antigen Wb123) and molecular laboratory tests. Frequencies and prevalence rates, along with 95% confidence intervals for interval estimation of a binomial proportion, were computed. The overall onchocerciasis seroprevalence calculated for the study was 0.3% (95% CI: 0.1 to 0.5%). Microscopic examination of skin biopsies from the eight individuals seropositive for Ov16, out of the 3951 individuals initially tested, revealed no O. volvulus microfilariae. However, DNA extracted from one skin snip was successfully amplified, with subsequent sequencing confirming the presence of O. volvulus. Among the 3951 individuals, 182 were found to have anti-Wb123 antibodies, suggesting exposure to W. bancrofti, with an estimated seroprevalence of 4.6% (95% CI: 4.0 to 5.3%). Microscopy and Filaria-real time-PCR (F-RT-PCR) analysis for W. bancrofti were negative across all samples. The findings indicate that onchocerciasis may no longer constitutes a public health problem in Equatorial Guinea, positioning the country on the verge of achieving elimination. Additionally, the mapped prevalence of LF will facilitate the formulation of national strategies aimed at eradicating filariases countrywide.

The heterogeneity of NOTCH1 to tumor immune infiltration in pan-cancer.

NOTCH1 signaling, a vital regulator of cell proliferation and differentiation, is widely involved in the occurrence and development of malignant tumors. Pharmacological regulation of NOTCH1 is promising in tumor immunotherapy, whereas the effective rate of existing therapies remains low. NOTCH1 functions, as a cancer suppressor or a cancer promoter in different cancers, is engaged in the crosstalk between the immune microenvironment and cancer cells, posing a major challenge to immunotherapy. Therefore, a comprehensive view of the overall situation of NOTCH1-associated immune infiltration in pan-cancer should be built. The relation between NOTCH1 and immune infiltration was initially investigated in this paper. In this study, the data originated from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases were input into multiple online bioinformatic tools to study the characteristics of NOTCH1 in pan-cancer. We found that there was obvious heterogeneity in the NOTCH1-associated tumor immune infiltration in pan-cancer. In accordance with the heterogeneity, pan-cancer mainly fell into two categories, i.e., cancers that NOTCH1 promoted immune infiltration (termed hot tumors) and NOTCH1 inhibited immune infiltration (termed cold tumors). We further analyzed the changes of immune infiltration in pan-carcinoma species from the perspectives of NOTCH1 expression, mutation, gene function, tumor metastasis and drugs. NOTCH1 expression was significantly up-regulated in cold tumors but down-regulated in hot tumors. The Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of NOTCH1 with the two categories placed stress on angiogenesis and protein dealkylation, respectively. Further, the gene sets of angiogenesis facilitated immune infiltration, whereas the gene sets of protein dealkylation hindered immune infiltration. The tsRNA associated with NOTCH1 is a type of angiogenin that potentially exerts a significant influence on angiogenesis. We have conducted a meticulous analysis of the function of this tsRNA. NOTCH1 was conducive to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) immune infiltration, while the metastatic process was more dependent on the differentiation and angiogenesis function of NOTCH1. Accordingly, the heterogeneity of NOTCH1 in immune infiltration was extensively analyzed in this study based on the pan-cancer study, which can contribute to the formulation of specific immunotherapy strategies.

Navigating the green shift with innovative techniques in petrochemical emission control.

This analysis delves into the profound influence of the petrochemical sector on carbon emissions, highlighting the insufficient data that impedes the formulation of effective emission reduction strategies. By concentrating on the unique challenges within this industry, the study employs a sophisticated decision-making model to explore the complex interconnections between carbon emissions, mitigation approaches, and investment choices. The primary objectives include boosting energy efficiency, refining CO2 reduction initiatives, and cutting associated costs. To navigate the intricacies of carbon footprint assessment, the research introduces a novel hybrid framework that merges scientific modeling with a code-based prototype to aid in strategic planning. The efficacy of this approach is validated by experts, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability through CNHS mapping, which enables the customization of emission reduction strategies across different scenarios.

Strategic management of rural revitalization in China under the concept of the digital economy: Past, present, and future

Strategic management of rural revitalization in China under the concept of the digital economy: Past, present, and future

Geolocation of Fixed Emission Sources Produced by Artisan Brick Kilns in the Atmospheric Basin of the City of Juliaca, Peru

Objective: The study objective is to investigate the application of georeferencing systems to identify the geospatial location of fixed sources of atmospheric emissions produced by artisanal brickyards in the air basin of Juliaca city-Peru. Theoretical Framework: Previous studies have shown that artisanal brickyards are a significant source of air pollution in developing urban and on the outskirts. Emissions of fine particles, nitrogen oxides and other pollutants from the burning of traditional fuels, such as firewood and coal contribute to the degradation of air quality and can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. The georeferencing application and geospatial analysis techniques in the atmospheric pollution study have allowed a better understanding of the spatial distribution of emission sources and their impact on the environment. These tools are essential to identify and map the artisanal brickyard locations and to evaluate their contribution to air pollution in urban and on the outskirts. Method: The methodology adopted for this research includes data collection and compilation of existing information; georeferencing of brickyards through the use of geographic information systems (GIS); analysis of geospatial data for the identification of spatial patterns; preparation of thematic and spatial distribution maps; and the interpretation of results. Results and Discussion: The study results highlight the importance of locating the fixed sources of emissions produced by artisanal brick factories in the Juliaca air basin. This precise spatial identification provides a solid basis for the formulation of policies and mitigation strategies aimed at reducing air pollution in the region, in addition to representing fundamental data for the use and exploitation of GIS for environmental protection and modelling, among others. Research Implications: The results can be applied or influence practices in the environmental and forestry engineering field, the ICTs application, modelling and simulation, and territorial planning, among others. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature using georeferencing techniques for environmental modelling purposes. The relevance and value of this research are evident in obtaining georeferenced points for the estimation of emission factors for the predictive calculation of volumes, flows and dispersion of pollutants in an air basin.

Identifying immunohistochemical biomarkers panel for non-small cell lung cancer in optimizing treatment and forecasting efficacy.

Chemotherapy and immunotherapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are gaining momentum. However, its long-term efficacy remains limited to only a small fraction of patients. Hence, it is crucial to identify reliable immunohistochemical biomarkers to facilitate the formulation of optimal treatment strategies and to predict therapeutic outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 140 patients diagnosed with NSCLC who received chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Using bioinformatics analysis and machine learning techniques, we assessed the role of immunohistochemical biomarkers and clinical characteristics in developing a predictive model for treatment options and outcomes in this population. Our research has found that immunohistochemical biomarkers can accurately predict treatment regimens and progression-free survival in NSCLC patients with an accuracy rate of 82.1%. We identified an exclusive detection panel for the six vital biomarkers. Of particular note is the role of programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in guiding treatment selection, with high expression predicting better outcomes in the immunotherapy group at a cut-off value of 50%. Non-squamous patients who tested positive for thyroid transcription factor 1 had a longer median progression-free survival, while squamous patients who tested positive for p63 protein or cytokeratin 5/6 expression had a longer median progression-free survival. The results of our study are highly encouraging, as they revealed a significant correlation between immunohistochemical biomarkers, therapeutic regimens, and prognosis. These findings indicate that our immunohistochemical detection panel has great potential for facilitating customization of therapeutic regimens to improve patient care. The insights gained from this study could help clinicians optimize treatment protocols and ultimately enhance clinical outcomes.

CONTABILIDADE DE CUSTOS: A GESTÃO DE CUSTOS NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE MICRO E PEQUENAS EMPRESAS PRESTADORAS DE SERVIÇO DE LIMPEZA

This article examines the impact of Strategic Cost Management (SCM) on the sustainable development of micro and small businesses in the service sector, with a focus on cleaning companies. The research investigates how SCM can be a vital tool for these businesses, enabling strict control over operational costs, which drives their competitiveness and ensures their market survival. The methodology is based on a literature review, analyzing theoretical approaches and previous studies on the application of SCM in small businesses. The results suggest that adopting strategic SCM practices not only improves operational efficiency but also strengthens the financial health and resilience of these companies in the face of economic challenges.

Is corporate reputation associated with voluntary cybersecurity risk reporting?

Purpose This study investigated the effect of voluntary cybersecurity risk reporting (VCRR) on corporate reputation. By examining the association between VCRR and corporate reputation, this study aims to provide exploratory evidence of how cybersecurity risk is sensitive to a company’s image and reputation. Design/methodology/approach An automated content analysis of VCRR by 95 Bombay Stock Exchange-listed companies was undertaken using Python code. Signaling and legitimacy theories were adopted to interpret the findings, establishing whether VCRR was related to corporate reputation. Findings The results confirm that VCRR improves the corporate reputation in the financial market. The results also confirm the signalling and legitimacy theory that a company can manage reputational risks through higher voluntary risk disclosure. Practical implications The corporation’s managers can gain insights from the study’s findings and proactively address cybersecurity risks through strategic disclosure and management practices. In addition, organizations can recognize that investors value transparency and establish a positive reputation for those who communicate openly. Social implications A significant association between VCRR and corporate reputation implies that such disclosures enhance trust and transparency in the business sector and induce security and accountability among investors engaging with the company. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first that empirically investigates this issue and adds to the international literature a new explanatory variable, corporate reputation, to explain VCRR practices.

Towards a Strategic Management Framework for Enhancing South Africa’s Seafarer Development Programme: Addressing Placement Challenges

The global shortage of qualified seafarers, particularly at the officer level, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for South Africa. Despite the country’s strategic location along critical international trade routes, South African seafarers face significant challenges in obtaining placement upon completion of their training. This article presents a systematic literature review on the placement challenges experienced by seafarers, supplemented with qualitative insights from South African stakeholders. The findings highlight the structural issues within South Africa’s seafarer development programme and propose a strategic management framework to improve the placement and competitiveness of South African seafarers in the global maritime industry.

Innovation and sustainability in technology parks: the transformation of Itec Park UFN through the PDCA cycle

This study examines the transformative role of the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle as a strategic framework for managing science and technology parks, using Itec Park UFN as a case study. By implementing PDCA-based tools, this research seeks to streamline the operational processes of technology parks through structured planning, execution, monitoring, and continuous improvement. The approach aligns closely with the Sustainable Development Goals, notably SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Employing an action research methodology that integrates literature review, tool development, and pilot implementation, the study emphasizes strategic management, innovation promotion, and knowledge transfer as core aspects. Findings reveal that the PDCA cycle enhances the park’s capacity to adapt to market shifts, supporting resilience and fostering a culture of sustainable innovation. The structured use of PDCA not only improves operational efficiency but also promotes stronger partnerships between academia, industry, and government. This systematic management approach establishes a replicable model that can be adapted by other science and technology parks, providing practical insights into the creation of innovation ecosystems that catalyze regional economic development and empower startup growth. Ultimately, the research contributes to the field by demonstrating how structured, goal-oriented methodologies can drive sustainable technological and economic advancement.

Nasal Fiber-optic Intubation Training for Nurse Anesthesia Students Incorporating Deliberate Practice and Summative Assessment

Introduction Managing difficult airways and adverse respiratory events is critical for anesthesia providers. Fiber-optic intubation (FOI) is a strategic management approach in difficult airway situations. Clinical exposure to FOI can be limited, posing challenges for skill development. Simulation-based medical education offers a safe alternative for training. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation-based FOI training program for student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) in an educational context. Methods A repeated measure study was conducted during the Pediatric Anesthesia Simulation for Student Nurse Anesthetists course at the Peter M. Winter Institute for Simulation, Education, and Research. One hundred twenty-three SRNAs participated in the FOI simulation program. For the analysis, students were stratified into 2 groups based on their performance in the summative testing of nasal FOI time. Baseline characteristics and the students' performance during the simulation were analyzed. Results Among the participants, 58 were categorized as “above median time” (AMT) and 65 as “below median time” (BMT) for FOI testing. No significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics. The AMT group exhibited longer mean times for summative testing FOI (50 vs. 26 seconds), first FOI attempt (97 vs. 78 seconds), and subsequent sets (third: 374 vs. 325 seconds, fourth: 323 vs. 268 seconds). Both groups showed performance improvement across training sets with reduced variability. Conclusions The simulation-based FOI training program effectively enhanced SRNA skill, with performance improvement during the training period. This study underscores the importance of simulation in anesthesia education, offering a safe and structured environment for skill development in FOI.

Status of “African research and its contribution to global health research: a review and an opinion”

Abstract Aim Research is key to the development of any nation, with health research being of high value to society. Research provides data that is useful for the generation and provision of knowledge needed for policy making, planning and strategic management to develop nations. Despite the African population accounting for nearly 14% of the world’s population, little published research originates from African scholars. Purpose The purpose of this article is to highlight the reasons for the lack of robust research by scientists from African low-and-middle-income countries and to emphasize the inequity experienced by African scientists in global health research. Possible solutions to the dearth in African global health research are equally explored. Findings Insufficient research has led to poor growth, development and advancements in health in Africa. A significant gap in African-led and published research, lack of mentorship, inequitable access to research funding and grant eligibility, and increased dependency on foreign organizations have contributed to the lack of sustainability and failure of African research. Conclusion Research is crucial for national development, especially in health. However, African researchers are underrepresented in global publications. To optimize research, local needs and African researchers must be prioritized, and research systems in African institutions must be strengthened. Additionally, the international community must respect, be transparent, and support research development in Africa. These efforts are essential for fostering a robust research environment, addressing global health challenges, and promoting sustainable development across Africa and LMICs.