Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Research Articles

Food vloggers and their content: understanding pathways to consumer impact and purchase intentions

PurposeThis study aims to understand pathways to success for food video bloggers (food vloggers) by identifying the drivers of positive reception among audiences. It examines how entertainment, information and interaction values affect attitudes toward food videos and vloggers. Additionally, it investigates the potential for product placement by studying the effects of attitudes toward food videos and vloggers on consumers’ behavioral intention regarding purchasing featured food ingredients.Design/methodology/approachAn integrated model informed by theories (uses and gratification and stimulus-organism-response) was developed. An online survey was administered to 339 Vietnamese social media users. The data were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results show that food videos’ entertainment and information value positively impact the attitude toward food videos. However, the interaction value does not have a significant impact. All three values (entertainment value, information value and interaction) impact the attitude toward food vloggers. Both attitudes significantly influence purchase intention, showing that there is a pathway to product placement. The frequency of social media use can moderate these relationships, with a negative effect on the attitude toward food videos and a positive effect on the attitude toward food vloggers.Originality/valueThese findings provide insights into vlogger success pathways, not only in terms of audience reception but also in terms of product placement. This study offers comprehensive suggestions on pathways for success that are interesting for vloggers, food business operators, restaurant managers and audiences on how to design effective food videos and potentially encourage consumer purchases. These pathways can also be valuable for other behaviors, such as food safety advice and food waste reduction.

Shirking in supply chain collaborations: do circular economy entrepreneurship and technical capability moderate impacts for circular economy performance?

PurposeSmall and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies are encouraged to form supply chain collaborations (SCC) for better circular economy (CE) performance. Yet, the literature remains silent on SMEs’ susceptibility to opportunistic behaviors of supply chain (SC) partners. This study draws on the transaction cost theory (TCT) and the resource-based view (RBV) to investigate the impact of shirking on SCC and CE performance while exploring how circular economy entrepreneurship (CEE) can curb the impacts of shirking on SCC as well as drive technical capability (TC) to moderate the relationship between SCC and CE performance.Design/methodology/approachThe TCT and RBV are used as a theoretical lens to investigate the direct, mediation and moderation effects tested via partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using survey data from 152 managers of SMEs in Nepal.FindingsContrary to past findings, the study results show that shirking, directly and indirectly, has a positive and significant impact on SCC and CE performance, respectively. The results also show that as CEE, which positively and significantly drives TC, moves from low to high levels, the effect of shirking on SCC dampens, and as TC moves from low to high levels, the effect of SCC on CE performance intensifies.Originality/valueThis study’s contribution lies in extending the shirking debate to the CE domain and also in identifying CEE and TC as potent means for SMEs in emerging economies to mitigate shirking impacts and induce SC partner commitments in CE-driven SCC. This study provides relevant theoretical and practical insights.

Relationship Between Leadership Ostracism and Employee Engagement: A Moderated Mediation Model

This study investigated the effect of leadership ostracism on employee engagement through defensive silence as a mediating variable, using the conservation of resources theory framework and the need-threat/need fortification model. The study also examined the role of external social support, which has the potential to moderate the indirect effect of leadership ostracism on employee engagement. Data were collected from civil servants in Indonesia using self-report questionnaires. Using the snowball sampling technique, an online survey was conducted to collect data. Of 504 accepted responses, 310 met all the criteria and were analysed using partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and a moderated mediation model. The moderated mediation analysis showed that low perceived external social support indirectly strengthens the negative influence of leadership ostracism on employee engagement through defensive silence. This research enriches the ostracism literature, especially regarding leadership ostracism and its relationship with employee engagement, which has not been empirically tested in previous studies.

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

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

Examining the crucial societal incentive approaches and their impact mechanisms to enhance the purchase intention of carbon-labeled products: A conjoined application of PLS-SEM and NCA methodologies

Enhancing consumers’ purchase intention for carbon-labeled products is crucial for the sustainable development of the market economy. This study aims to address a key challenge by exploring the often-overlooked impact of external incentive mechanisms in the existing literature. Utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA), the research dissects survey data from 730 Chinese consumers. It reveals the complex influence of four social incentives (i.e., monetary incentives, price incentives, spiritual incentives, and information incentives) on purchasing intentions from the perspective of perceived value. The results indicate that consumers’ awareness and trust in carbon labels are highly important but show modest performance. To be specific, among the four incentive measures, information incentives significantly promote purchasing intentions, followed by spiritual incentives. Interestingly, although the price incentives are a key precondition for increasing purchasing intentions, they do not show a direct and statistically significant effect. Besides, monetary incentives specifically facilitate the formation of purchasing intentions by enhancing consumers’ perception of the efficacy of carbon-labeled products, while information incentives promote intentions by influencing consumers’ desire for value expression. Benefiting from these four incentive measures, this study provides valuable insights to help develop effective strategies for promoting carbon labeling and green products, refine the design of environmentally friendly choice architectures for public policy, and enhance our understanding of consumer behavior in contemporary culture.

Investigating the role of the built environment, socio-economic status, and lifestyle factors in the prevalence of chronic diseases in Mashhad: PLS-SEM model

BackgroundChronic diseases remain a significant contributor to both mortality and disability in our modern world. Physical inactivity and an unhealthy diet are recognized as significant behavioral risk factors for chronic diseases, which can be influenced by the built environment and socio-economic status (SES). This study aims to investigate the relationship between the built environment, SES, and lifestyle factors with chronic diseases.MethodsThe current study was conducted in Mashhad’s Persian cohort, which included employees from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS). In the study, 5,357 participants from the cohort were included. To assess the state of the built environment in Mashhad, a Geographic Information System (GIS) map was created for the city and participants in the Persian Mashhad study. Food intake and physical exercise were used to assess lifestyle. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess food intake. To assess food intake, the diet quality index was computed. To assess the link between variables, the structural model was created in accordance with the study’s objectives, and partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized.ResultsThe chronic diseases were positively associated with male sex (p < 0.001), married (p < 0.001), and higher age (p < 0.001). The chronic diseases were negatively associated with larger family size (p < 0.05), higher SES (p < 0.001), and higher diet quality index (DQI) (p < 0.001). No significant relationship was found between chronic disease and physical activity.ConclusionFood intake and socioeconomic status have a direct impact on the prevalence of chronic diseases. It seems that in order to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases, increasing economic access, reducing the class gap and increasing literacy and awareness should be emphasized, and in the next step, emphasis should be placed on the built environment.

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

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

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

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

Investigating Factors Affecting the Purchase Intention in Petroleum Stations Implementing Sustainable Practices: A Pro-Environmental Behavior Approach with a Consideration of Sustainable Initiatives Knowledge

The application of sustainability practices has become one of the key drivers to gaining a favorable stand in the market. However, petroleum companies are hesitant with its implementation due to the perceived negative financial impact. This study was conducted to determine the purchase intentions of consumers from petroleum stations implementing sustainability practices by utilizing the pro-environmental planned behavior (PEPB) framework. The research utilized an online questionnaire with 400 respondents who have been a petrol station customer. The data were examined with a higher-order construct using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings showed a positive relationship between variables and revealed that economic concern, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, economic factors, and sustainable knowledge significantly influenced customers’ intention to purchase goods and services from a petrol station adopting sustainability practices, while attitude was found to have no direct significant impact on customers’ intention. The results of this study adds value to the potential increase in PEPB understanding and consumer behavior and may be beneficial for petroleum companies as the basis for managerial decisions regarding the implementation of sustainability practices or initiatives towards adopting the concept of “green stations” and consumer preferences to attract purchase intentions.

Acceptance factors of telemedicine in times of COVID-19: Case Argentina

Acceptance factors of telemedicine in times of COVID-19: Case Argentina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Factors Affecting the Implementation of Risk-Based Internal Auditing

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

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

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