Sustainable Competitive Advantage Research Articles

CREATIVE AND PURE IMITATION UNDER ENVIRONMENTAL TURBULENCE: EVIDENCE FROM AN EMERGING ECONOMY

Due to the significance of imitation in business success and economic growth, there is an increasing interest of scholars in exploring different dimensions of imitation, illuminating the ‘black box’ of imitation. Given the increasingly turbulent nature of business environments, this study aims to investigate creative and pure imitation-based competitive strategies and their performance under different levels of environmental turbulence. A theoretical framework was tested using a sample of manufacturing firms in Vietnam. The results revealed that creative imitation is positively associated with sustained competitive advantage, while the impact of pure imitation on sustained competitive advantage is negligible. Furthermore, environmental turbulence affects both creative and pure imitation, with only creative imitation mediating the effects of environmental turbulence on sustained competitive advantage. Lastly, environmental turbulence amplifies the effect of pure imitation on sustained competitive advantage, while it has minimal moderating effects on the relationship between creative imitation and sustained competitive advantage. This study contributes to the literature by being the first to examine the effect of environmental turbulence on the performance of both creative and pure imitation strategies.

Strategic Agility and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: How to Leverage Top Management Team Characteristics

Strategic Agility and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: How to Leverage Top Management Team Characteristics

Достойный труд в экономике свободного заработка и построение гармоничных трудовых отношений

The article analyzes the possibility of ensuring decent work for all employees by legal means, including those inherent in labor law. Decent work is an opportunity for men and women to get decent, productive and sustainable work in conditions of freedom, justice, security and human dignity. Existing research has shown that decent work is of great importance for the implementation of the national development strategy, improving the sustainable competitive advantage of the organization and meeting individual labor needs. This article discusses the definition and structural aspects of decent work, and also proposes a theoretical basis for the mechanism of interaction between the perception of decent work, attitude to work and work behavior on both sides of the labor relationship.

Leveraging Innovation and Identity for Sustainable Competitive Advantage: An Analysis of Jordanian Bank Performance Drivers

Leveraging Innovation and Identity for Sustainable Competitive Advantage: An Analysis of Jordanian Bank Performance Drivers

Nexus between regulatory pressure, eco-friendly product demand and sustainable competitive advantage of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises: the mediating role of eco-innovation

AbstractAlthough previous research endeavours have extensively explored the environmental pressure-performance relationship, their findings have been inclusive. Therefore, this paper examines the direct and indirect (through the mediating role of eco-innovation) impact of regulatory pressure and eco-friendly product demand on sustainable competitive advantage. The research model was examined using Structural Equation Modeling methodology, analyzing data gathered from 183 senior managers within Egyptian SMEs. Several findings have been yielded, which are: (1) eco-innovation is positively motivated by regulatory pressure and eco-friendly product demand; (2) the direct link between environmental pressures (regulatory pressure, eco-friendly product demand) and sustainable competitive advantages is not statistically significant; and (3) eco-innovation acts as a mediator in the relationship between these environmental pressures and sustainable competitive advantage. This research theoretically contributes to the institutional theory of the firm and competitive advantages theory. Particularly, the findings of this research theoretically emphasize that eco-innovation plays a prominent role in alleviating and translating environmental pressures exerted on manufacturing SMEs into sustainable competitive advantages. Furthermore, the research provides practical implications, policy recommendations, limitations, and further research avenues.

Exploring e-Commerce Potential: Improving Sales Performance Through Product Innovation in The Agriculture Sector

This study explores the impact of e-commerce on sales performance, mediated by innovation, among agricultural business entrepreneurs in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi Province. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 97 agricultural entrepreneurs who have adopted technology in their sales processes. The study employs WarpPLS 8.0 for data analysis to test the hypothesized relationships between e-commerce, innovation, and sales performance. Results indicate that e-commerce significantly enhances sales performance both directly (path coefficient = 0.727, p < 0.001) and through innovation (path coefficient = 0.207, p = 0.001). Additionally, e-commerce positively impacts innovation (path coefficient = 0.901, p < 0.001), and innovation itself significantly boosts sales performance (path coefficient = 0.230, p < 0.001). These findings corroborate prior research, underscoring the importance of effective resource management, strategic goal alignment, and employee competencies in improving sales outcomes. Advanced technologies, such as machine learning, further enhance businesses' ability to predict and optimize sales strategies. For agribusiness entrepreneurs in Polewali Mandar, the study highlights the necessity of embracing digital transformation. Despite initial skepticism, the integration of e-commerce platforms and innovative marketing strategies can expand market reach, improve operational efficiency, and build consumer trust. This research provides practical recommendations for leveraging digital technologies to drive growth and profitability. By focusing on consistent and relevant digital content, agribusinesses can overcome barriers and achieve sustainable competitive advantages. The findings underscore the critical role of digital and technological innovations in fostering business success in the agricultural sector.

Effect of green supply chain management practices and operational performance on sustainable competitive advantage

Effect of green supply chain management practices and operational performance on sustainable competitive advantage

A Critical Review of the Underlying Dynamics Between Stakeholder Value Addition and Organisational Strategies

This paper critically examines how stakeholder value addition influences organisational strategies, highlighting key strategic outcomes affected by various stakeholder engagements. Utilizing a theoretical framework that integrates the Stakeholder Theory with the Strategic Management Model, the study systematically explores the reciprocity between stakeholders' expectations and organisational policy-making. Through a qualitative analysis of case studies across diverse sectors, the research illuminates the processes through which stakeholder interests are prioritized and integrated into the strategic objectives of organizations. The findings underscore the importance of aligning stakeholder management with core business strategies to foster sustainable growth and competitive advantage. Additionally, this review identifies potential pitfalls and best practices in stakeholder engagement, providing insights into how effective stakeholder integration can drive strategic innovation and enhance organisational resilience. This synthesis of stakeholder-related strategic dynamics offers significant contributions to both academic literature and practical management approaches, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of stakeholder impacts on organizational success.

The mediating effect of service quality on the relationship between logistics resources and sustainable competitive advantage in Iraqi Kurdistan hotels

The mediating effect of service quality on the relationship between logistics resources and sustainable competitive advantage in Iraqi Kurdistan hotels

To Gain Sustainable Competitive Advantages (SCA) Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) Over Competitors

The motivation behind this examination is to explore the relationship between AI, DC, and SCA in the telecom business in Pakistan. The paper embraced a quantitative exploration plan and utilized a survey method to collect data from 235 telecom sector employees and managers of three distinct hierarchical levels. The paper applied SEM to examine the hypotheses and analyse the data. The paper found that artificial intelligence affected digital capacity (DC), DC meaningfully affected SCA, and DC intervened in the impact of AI on SCA. The study adds to the works on the link between AI, DC, and SCA in the telecom business. It gives experimental proof to help the hypotheses that artificial intelligence influences DC, DC influences SCA, and DC explains the impact of AI on SCA. The paper gives helpful experiences to telecom sector employees and policymakers. It suggests that telecom companies should make investments in AI technologies and applications to improve their DC, which can help them gain a competitive advantage. Also, it recommends that policymakers work with and support the telecom business to execute DC and AI because these advancements can help financial development, effectiveness, and innovation. The research aims to identify the association between AI, DC, and SCA in the telecom industry in Pakistan. It offers an original viewpoint on how artificial intelligence can improve DC and how DC can prompt SCA in the telecom business.

IS SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE ANTEDILUVIAN?

This article aims to understand the contemporary relevance of the sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) concept in strategic management. Mainstream management and business training perpetuates the use of SCA despite indications that it is elusive. This study intends to elucidate how, in the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) world, SCA has become irrelevant, what the possible reasons are for its continued use and what alternatives can be explored for business success. The study followed an exploratory, constructivist grounded theory approach. Data were obtained from 27 semi-structured interviews to develop a grounded theory. Findings revealed four main themes, and pronounce that in a complex, interconnected business world, SCA is mostly obsolete, which demands an organisation to adapt its strategy, business model and culture to create value, be relevant, have a significant (positive) impact and contribute to the common good. The main implication of the study is therefore that SCA should no longer be promoted as a key concept for organisational success by management and academia. Alternatives to SCA, such as agility and complexity management, are more relevant in an interconnected 4IR business environment. The study enhances the body of knowledge by bolstering the critique on the continued use of SCA in contemporary business management. It furthermore highlights potential erroneous assumptions through a direct explanation of why SCA assumptions are antiquated.

Analysis of the “Global Niche Top” Strategy of Regional Companies in Japan – RHEON Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd.

Abstract This paper illustrates how Rheon Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd., the largest manufacturer of food molds in the world, uses operational and manufacturing complexity to create sustainable competitive advantage in a highly volatile business environment. In these days of increased digitalization, high-tech and intelligent business solutions, it is still of interest to review some rather analogue, but highly successful manufacturing companies which do not rely on high-tech to charm their customers, create employee engagement, global advantage and social impact, while nourishing sustainably business opportunities. This research further explores core elements of talent attraction, retention, workforce planning and development, as well as organizational development techniques unique to Rheon Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd.

EMPLOYEE SURVEY ON STRATEGIC HR PRACTICES AND PRODUCTIVITY IN INDIAN ORGANIZATION

This research paper aims to investigate the relationship between strategic HR practices and employee productivity in Indian organizations. A survey was conducted among employees from different industries to understand their perceptions of HR practices such as talent management, performance management, training and development, and their impact on individual and organizational productivity. The findings suggest that effective strategic HR practices, when implemented, can significantly contribute to enhanced employee productivity and overall organizational performance. The study provides valuable insights for HR professionals and business leaders in India on how to leverage strategic HR initiatives to drive productivity and achieve sustainable competitive advantage.

Vertical Takeoff and Landing for Distribution of Parcels to Hospitals: A Case Study about Industry 5.0 Application in Israel’s Healthcare Arena

To gain a sustained competitive advantage, organizations such as UPS, Fedex, Amazon, etc., began to seek for industry 5.0 innovative autonomous delivery options for the last mile. Autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles are a promising alternative for the logistics industry. The fact that drones are propelled by green renewable energy source fits the companies’ need to become sustainable, replacing their fuel truck fleets, especially for traveling to remote rural locations to deliver small packages, but a major obstacle is the necessity for charging stations which is well documented in the literature. Therefore, the current research embarks on devising a novel yet practical piece of technology adopting the simplicity approach of direct flights to destinations. The analysis showcases the application for a network of warehouses and hospitals in Israel while controlling costs. Given the products in the case study are medical, direct flight has the potential to save lives when every moment counts. Hydrogen cell technology allows long-range flying without refueling, and it is both vibration-free which is essential for sensitive medical equipment and environmentally friendly in terms of air pollution and silence in urban areas. Importantly, hydrogen cells are lighter, with higher energy density than batteries, which makes them ideal for drone usage to reduce weight, maintain a longer life, and enable faster charging, all of which minimize downtime. Also, hydrogen sourcing is low-cost and unlimited compared to lithium-ion material which needs to be mined. The case study investigates an Israeli entrepreneurial company, Gadfin, which builds a vertical takeoff-and-landing-type of drone with folded wings that enable higher speed for the delivery of refrigerated medical cargo, blood, organs for transplant, and more to hospitals in partnership with the Israeli medical logistic conglomerate, SAREL. An analysis of shipping optimization (concerning the number and type of drone) is conducted using a mixed-integer linear programming technique based on various types of constraints such as traveling distance, parcel weight, the amount of flight controllers and daily number of flights allowed in order to not overcrowd the airspace. Importantly, the discussion assesses the ecosystem’s variety of risks and commensurate safety mechanisms for advancing a newly shaped landscape of drones in an Israeli tight airspace to establish a network of national routes for drone traffic. The conclusion of this research cautions limitations to overcome as the utilization of drones expand and offers future research avenues.

A Study on Human Resource Management and It’s Challenges in India

Every business or profession is faced by unique and newer challenges. The nature, scope and magnitude of these challenges keep changing because of the increasing competition between firms, increased customer expectations and drastic change in customer preferences. Human resources of an organisation consist of all people who perform its activities (Bernardin, 2010). Subsequently, human resource management as part of an organisation must be prepared to deal with upcoming challenges and changing dynamic environment. This means understanding the effects of globalisation, work force diversity, changing skill requirements, Recruitment of new staffs, productivity, health and safety ,the contingent workforce, employee involvement and also technology changes (Decenzo & Robbins, 2007). Nowadays business society is going through a dynamic change due to multiple factors, which affect the industry. The most important of these factors are shift from manufacturing to services, globalization in every industry, changes in technology, automation and artificial intelligence and the worldwide dissemination of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT).How these Issues and challenges affect the organisational behaviour and Human Resource Management is the topic of this paper. An organisation can succeed if it has a sustainable competitive advantage (is better than competitors at something, and can hold that advantage over a sustained period of time). Thus, we can conclude that organisations need the kind of resources that will give them such an advantage. Human Resource responsibilities have become broader and more strategic over time in response to a number of trends. Changes are occurring today that are requiring HR managers to play an increasing central role in managing companies. These changes or trends include globalisation, changes in the nature of work, and technology. Globalisation is increasingly evident in the world .More globalisation means more competition, and more competition means more pressure to lower costs, make employees more productive, and do things better and less expensively. Human Resources play a key role in helping companies meet the challenges of global competition and strategic objectives to lower costs, improve productivity and increase organisational effectiveness (Desseler, Al Riss, 2012). A company’s policy and the HR policies and practices have to go in sync and the management shall be bold enough to bring about an organisational change. Here is when the issues are challenges reform and Human Resource Management finds its existence. In today’s business world, employees are ready to do their best and they also expect the best in return, in terms of rewards, incentives, communication, better healthcare facilities, a stress free work environment, and so A business organisation has to estimate its future manpower needs and adjust its manpower planning and development programmes.

Systematic Literature Review: The Role of Innovation and Competitive Advantage of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises as Mediation Variables

Systematic Literature Review (SLR), which focuses on the role of innovation and competitive advantage as mediators of various factors on the performance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), is still relatively rare. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that affect competitive advantage and the role of innovation mediation and competitive advantage in influencing MSMEs performance. This study utilized Google Scholar as a database. Of 500 studies, 400 were excluded according to the title and abstract, and 100 were screened for eligibility, resulting in 41 studies included for review. This study showed that there were 45 factors that affected competitive advantage and 15 factors that affected sustainable competitive advantage. This study also found that innovation variables, including marketing innovation, innovation, green innovation, and corporate open innovation, mediated various factors influencing competitive and sustainable competitive advantages. Also, competitive advantage was able to mediate the relationship between several factors that affected the performance of MSMEs. These findings provided a reference for future research to analyze innovation as a mediating variable for the relationship of various factors to competitive advantage. This finding also provides information that for MSMEs to survive in globalization, they should have a competitive advantage to be competitive. Thus, the factors in this study can be used to strengthen the competitive advantage of MSMEs and improve their performance.

Data-driven strategies for business expansion: Utilizing predictive analytics for enhanced profitability and opportunity identification

In today's hyper-competitive business landscape, leveraging data-driven strategies is paramount for sustainable growth and profitability. This review presents an overview of the imperative role of predictive analytics in facilitating business expansion by enhancing profitability and identifying opportunities. Predictive analytics harnesses historical data and advanced modeling techniques to forecast future trends, enabling businesses to make informed decisions with precision. By understanding predictive analytics, businesses can effectively identify expansion opportunities by analyzing market trends, segmenting customer bases, and uncovering new markets and niches. Moreover, predictive analytics empowers organizations to enhance profitability through optimized pricing strategies, demand forecasting, and personalized marketing initiatives tailored to customer preferences and behaviors. Implementing data-driven strategies for business expansion requires building a robust data infrastructure, selecting appropriate tools and technologies, and fostering a data-driven culture within the organization. Real-world case studies illustrate the transformative impact of predictive analytics on business expansion, offering insights into best practices and lessons learned. Despite the undeniable benefits of predictive analytics, challenges such as data privacy concerns, ensuring data quality, and organizational resistance must be addressed. However, the rewards of embracing data-driven decision-making far outweigh the challenges, positioning businesses for sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the dynamic marketplace. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the critical role of predictive analytics in driving business expansion by enhancing profitability and opportunity identification. By harnessing the power of data, businesses can unlock new avenues for growth, mitigate risks, and stay ahead of the curve in today's data-driven economy.

The Way for Companies to Create Green and Sustainable Competitive Advantage

The Way for Companies to Create Green and Sustainable Competitive Advantage

Incremental versus Radical Innovation and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: A Moderated Mediation Model

Innovation is critical for organizations seeking to build and maintain a sustainable advantage in the competitive market. This study aims to construct a moderated mediation model to examine the effects of incremental and radical innovations on competitive advantage, which considers the mediating role of innovation speed and the moderating role of a supportive culture. Data from 201 Chinese firms were collected through questionnaires and the research hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analysis and bootstrapping techniques. The empirical results show that incremental and radical innovations have a significant positive effect on competitive advantage. Radical innovation has a greater impact on competitive advantage compared to incremental innovation. Innovation speed mediates the relationship between incremental and radical innovations and competitive advantage. Supportive culture positively moderates the relationship between incremental and radical innovations and innovation speed. Moreover, supportive culture positively moderates the conditional indirect effect of incremental and radical innovation on competitive advantage through innovation speed. Theoretical and practical implications are further discussed.

Entrepreneurial management, competitive advantage and SME performance: evidence from an emerging economy

PurposeThere is a paucity of empirical studies on the impact of entrepreneurial management on small and medium enterprises (SME) performance. Against this backdrop and drawing upon the resource-based view, this study aims to explore the relationship between entrepreneurial management and SME performance and the mediating role of competitive advantage in an emerging economy.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted a survey research design and a quantitative approach. A self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data from a conveniently selected sample of 174 manufacturing SMEs in Nigeria. This study performed mediation analysis to test the proposed hypotheses using Hayes’ PROCESS macro v4.FindingsThe findings indicate that entrepreneurial management positively impacts competitive advantage and SME performance. Furthermore, competitive advantage has a positive impact on SME performance and plays a significant mediating role in the relationship between entrepreneurial management and SME performance.Research limitations/implicationsThis study only examines manufacturing SMEs in a single country, Nigeria; thus, the generalisability of its findings is limited.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study offer practical implications for SMEs and SME owners or managers. The findings suggest that to gain a sustainable competitive advantage and achieve superior performance, SMEs should pursue opportunities regardless of the available resources, promote flat and flexible organisation structures, adopt fast growth orientation and strategies, reward employees based on the value they add to the organisation and foster an entrepreneurial culture.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to provide empirical evidence of the mediating effect of competitive advantage on the relationship between entrepreneurial management and SME performance in an emerging economy. This study demonstrates that implementing entrepreneurial management practices by SMEs can result in sustainable competitive advantage and superior performance.