Technological Dimensions Research Articles

Technological and Institutional Space, Entrepreneurial Activities and Innovation in Asian Economies

The East Asian region has shown increased innovation performance over the past 20 years. At the same time, individual economies within the region have shown divergent performance. This article investigated the relationship between institutional potentials, entrepreneurial activities and innovation in 12 Asian economies in order to address the question of why innovation performance in Asian economies has been dynamic as well as divergent. We empirically examine the question in the following two steps. First, we apply a multiple factor analysis to a range of indicators of multiple institutional domains that are relevant to a technological system, and we show that there can be diversity of institutional space underlying a technological architecture. Second, we investigate how and to what extent technological and institutional dimensions—derived from multiple factor analysis (MFA)—affect innovation performance by using an ordered logit model. We find that there is a diversity of technological and institutional systems available for innovation activities, leading to different innovation systems, and that entrepreneurial activity is essential for a technological and institutional potential to be linked with innovative activity. The positive synergy between innovation, technological and institutional potentials and entrepreneurial activities results in different trajectories for Asian economies to lead to increasing innovation performance. This finding implies that there can be multiple ways for emerging economies to be able to develop innovative capabilities. It also contributes to innovation policy, because it allows policymakers in emerging economies to understand how to build a synergy between institutional spaces and entrepreneurs’ activities for innovation performance.

Digital currency adoption in Africa: A critical review and global comparison

This study critically examines the landscape of digital currency adoption in Africa, providing a comprehensive analysis that juxtaposes the region's progress against global trends. As the world witnesses an accelerating shift towards digital currencies, Africa stands at a crucial juncture in its financial evolution. This research delves into the factors influencing the adoption of digital currencies in various African nations, exploring the socio-economic, technological, and regulatory dimensions that shape their trajectory. The study employs a comparative approach, drawing parallels between Africa's digital currency adoption and global patterns. By examining successful case studies and identifying challenges unique to the African context, the research sheds light on the diverse experiences within the continent. Factors such as financial inclusion, regulatory frameworks, technological infrastructure, and cultural perceptions are scrutinized to unravel the complexities surrounding digital currency adoption. Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of global trends and initiatives on Africa's digital currency landscape. The analysis encompasses the role of international collaborations, regulatory harmonization efforts, and the influence of major digital currencies in shaping the African narrative. By identifying both opportunities and challenges, the research aims to offer insights that can inform policymakers, financial institutions, and stakeholders in fostering a conducive environment for digital currency adoption in Africa. The findings of this study contribute to the academic discourse on digital currency adoption, providing a nuanced understanding of Africa's position in the global digital financial ecosystem. In an era where technological advancements redefine traditional financial paradigms, this research aims to inform strategic decision-making processes that can unlock the transformative potential of digital currencies in the African context.

Reviewing online learning effectiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic: A global perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges to education systems worldwide, forcing a rapid shift towards online learning as a primary mode of instruction. This Review reviews the effectiveness of online learning during the pandemic from a global perspective. The study considers various factors influencing the success or challenges faced by students, educators, and institutions in transitioning to digital platforms. One key aspect under scrutiny is the technological readiness of educational institutions across different countries. Disparities in infrastructure, access to devices, and internet connectivity have played a pivotal role in shaping the online learning experience. The study investigates how these disparities have impacted the effectiveness of online education, highlighting the importance of addressing digital divides for equitable learning opportunities. Furthermore, the Review explores the role of pedagogical strategies employed in online education. With the abrupt shift to virtual classrooms, educators had to adapt their teaching methods to suit the digital environment. The review assesses the effectiveness of various instructional approaches, considering factors such as student engagement, motivation, and the ability to cater to diverse learning styles. The socio-economic implications of online learning are also examined, as the pandemic has heightened existing inequalities. The study investigates how economic disparities have influenced access to education, examining the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. It also explores potential solutions and policy implications to bridge the gap and promote inclusivity in online education. The Review delves into the psychological impact of online learning on students and educators. Isolation, screen fatigue, and the absence of face-to-face interaction have posed mental health challenges. The review considers the measures taken by educational institutions to address these concerns and enhance the overall well-being of the academic community. In conclusion, this Review provides a comprehensive overview of the global experience with online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing technological, pedagogical, socio-economic, and psychological dimensions, it aims to contribute valuable insights for improving the effectiveness of online education in future scenarios of crisis or as a complementary mode of learning.

Enhancing accounting operations through cloud computing: A review and implementation guide

The present study explores the transformative impact of technological advancements, specifically cloud computing, predictive analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the evolving regulatory landscape, on the accounting profession. Employing a rigorous methodology, including meticulous search strategies and robust inclusion/exclusion criteria, the study synthesizes a wide range of scholarly sources to provide valuable insights. The review begins by elucidating the methodological approach, ensuring the research is grounded in credible academic sources. It subsequently delves into the evolution of these technologies, examining their integration with accounting systems and highlighting key milestones. Notably, the advent of cloud computing is identified as a paradigm shift, fundamentally altering accounting practices. The study systematically evaluates the benefits and challenges posed by these technological integrations, emphasizing their influence on operational efficiency, security, and compliance. It also delves into the ethical considerations arising from the use of AI and predictive analytics, stimulating discussions on the evolving roles of accountants. This study offers practical implications for accounting professionals, underlining the importance of continuous learning, data security measures, and ethical awareness. It further provides valuable recommendations for future research in the field, including empirical investigations into real-world impacts, ethical dimensions of technology, compliance strategies, and innovative education approaches.

The Mediation Role of Technology Systems in the Relationship Between Education Technology Antecedents on Student Satisfaction

The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of education technology antecedents and perceptions of usefulness and ease of use of educational technology systems on attitudes towards computer-based teaching in Egyptian universities. The study is built upon on deductive quantitative approach where structured questionnaires were designed and distributed to the students in Egyptian universities. Results based on SEM analysis identify that the technology dimension partially affects the design dimension, as well there is a partially significant association between the technology dimension and attitude towards technology-based teaching. While the design dimension does not have a significant association with attitude towards technology-based teaching, attitude towards technology-based teaching does not have a significant relationship with student satisfaction. Furthermore, there is a partially significant association between course dimensions and student satisfaction.

Literature Study of the Role of Technology in Education

This literature study explores the multifaceted role of technology in education. With the rapid advancement of digital technology, its integration into educational settings has become increasingly prevalent, reshaping teaching and learning practices worldwide. Through an extensive review of academic literature, this study examines various dimensions of technology's role in education, including its impact on pedagogy, student engagement, learning outcomes, and educational equity. The research synthesizes empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks to elucidate the potential benefits and challenges associated with technology integration in diverse educational contexts. Furthermore, the study investigates emerging trends such as online learning platforms, educational software applications, immersive technologies (e.g., virtual reality, augmented reality), and adaptive learning systems, highlighting their potential to enhance instructional delivery and personalize learning experiences. Additionally, the research discusses the importance of digital literacy and teacher professional development in leveraging technology effectively for educational purposes. Moreover, the study addresses critical issues such as digital divide, privacy concerns, and ethical implications associated with technology use in education. By analyzing the current state of research and identifying gaps in knowledge, this study offers insights into future directions for research, policy development, and educational practice in harnessing the transformative potential of technology to improve teaching and learning outcomes. Ultimately, this literature study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the evolving role of technology in education and provides a foundation for informed decision-making and innovation in educational technology integration efforts.

Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Business Decision-making: A Framework for Responsible AI Adoption

This study explores barriers to AI adoption in automated organizational decision-making. Through qualitative interviews with 13 senior managers in South Africa, the study identified human social dynamics, restrictive regulations, creative work environments, lack of trust, dynamic business environments, loss of power, and ethical considerations. The study applied the adaptive structuration theory (AST) model to AI decision-making adoption, providing recommendations to overcome these barriers. The AST offers a deeper understanding of the dynamic interaction between technological and social dimensions.

A Market Convergence Prediction Framework Based on a Supply Chain Knowledge Graph

Market convergence challenges socially sustainable supply chain management (SSSCM) due to the increasing competition. Identifying market convergence trends allows companies to respond quickly to market changes and improve supply chain resilience (SCR). Conventional approaches are one-sided and biased and cannot predict market convergence trends comprehensively and accurately. To address this issue, we propose a framework based on info2vec that solves the problem of matching multidimensional data by using the technology layer as the focal layer and the supply chain as the supporting layer. The framework enriches the supply chain dimension with the technology dimension. A knowledge graph is constructed to facilitate cross-domain information connectivity by integrating different data sources. The nodes in the knowledge graph were characterized using a representation learning algorithm, which enhanced feature mining during supply chain and market convergence. Changes in market demand were predicted based on link prediction experiments. Market convergence has an impact on firm cooperation and, thus, on SCR. The framework recommends potential technological and innovative cooperation opportunities for firms. In this way, it has been demonstrated to improve SSSCM through network resilience experiments. This method predicts market convergence efficiently based on the supply chain knowledge graph, which provides decision support for enterprise development.

A bibliometric review of Internet of Things (IoT) on cybersecurity issues

Purpose In response to the growing interest in Internet of Things (IoT) technology and its profound implications for businesses and individuals, this bibliometric study focuses on a critical yet understudied aspect, i.e. cybersecurity. As IoT adoption grows, so do concerns regarding user privacy and data security. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current research in this vital area, shedding light on research trends, gaps and emerging themes. Design/methodology/approach The study conducted a bibliometric analysis and systematic review of literature spanning over two decades (2013–2023). Bibliometric analysis is conducted using Biblioshiny which is R-software-based advanced analytical tool. Further, VOSviewer is used to conduct network analysis. The study highlights the evolving landscape of IoT cybersecurity, emphasizing interdisciplinary intersections and the ethical dimensions of IoT technologies. Findings The study uncovers crucial concerns related to IoT adoption, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive cybersecurity protocols. It identifies emerging themes such as artificial intelligence and blockchain integration, indicating a shift toward interdisciplinary solutions. Furthermore, the research highlights ethical gaps in current IoT discussions, emphasizing the importance of responsible innovation. Research limitations/implications Businesses can bolster their cybersecurity strategies, policymakers can craft informed regulations and researchers are encouraged to explore IoT’s ethical dimensions. Originality/value This study pioneers a nuanced analysis of IoT cybersecurity, filling a crucial gap in the existing business and management literature. By synthesizing a decade of scholarly work, it provides foundational insights for researchers, businesses and policymakers. The research not only informs academic discourse but also offers practical guidance for enhancing IoT security measures and fostering ethical innovation.

Uncovering the key features of platinum metabolism in China during 2001–2022: A dynamic material flow analysis

Platinum is a critical mineral resource and has been called the “vitamin” of the technology industry as it is widely utilized in diverse fields such as automobiles, petroleum, chemicals, medicine, jewelry, and electronics. The demand for platinum is increasing, but its reserve is limited, especially in China, a major platinum user in the world. This study aims to track the platinum cycle in China for the period of 2001–2022 by employing dynamic material flow analysis so that the key features of platinum metabolism in China can be identified. Our results show that the total production of domestic platinum mining accounted for only 1.27% of the national platinum supply. China had to import platinum resource to meet with its increasing demand. The jewelry sector contributed the largest platinum consumption due to the preference of the Chinese consumers. There are two recycling routes for all the retired platinum-containing products, including both closed-loop and open-loop routes. Also, the total illegal imported platinum scraps reached 131.27 tons, accounting for 47.57% of the total open-loop recycled platinum. China's platinum in-use stocks increased from 44.23 tons in 2001 to 824.49 tons in 2022. As a result, the end-of-life platinum scraps increased from 0 tons in 2001 to 65.83 tons in 2022. In addition, China primarily imported platinum semi-finished products to meet its domestic demand, but mainly exported platinum scraps and finished products to other countries. Based on these research findings, policy recommendations are proposed by considering the Chinese realities, covering political, technological, and industrial cooperation dimensions. The results of this study provide valuable insights to those decision makers so that they can prepare more effective platinum resource policies.

Smart cities at the intersection of public governance paradigms for sustainability

As a research domain, the smart city keeps growing, despite the remaining contradictions and ambiguity related to its conceptual aspects. We propose to dig deeper into the complex socio-technical nature of the smart city and examine the concept through the lens of different public governance paradigms, therefore aligning it with the sustainability outcomes. Embracing interrelated dimensions of humans, technologies and organisations, the smart city can be viewed through the intersection of public governance paradigms (digital governance, collaborative governance and networks). The case of the smart city initiative of Tampere in Finland serves as an empirical illustration of how the proposed conceptual model might be applied in practice. Providing a novel approach to the smart city from a public management perspective, this model would allow policymakers to acquire a more comprehensive understanding of smart city governance and its multi-dimensional outcomes, in terms of social, environmental and economic sustainability. This approach enables the unlocking of the potential to generate multiple values for each group of actors and ensure more effective integration of smart initiatives, policies and projects, based on the public governance paradigms.

Identifying Critical Success Factors (CSF) in ERP Implementation Using AHP

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementations often encounter multifaceted challenges, leading to failures. Success relies on technical competence, management support, and user engagement. Unique organizational processes significantly influence outcomes. Failures can disrupt operations, highlighting the need to identify critical success factors (CSFs) for effective ERP implementation. This study employed analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology to analyze CSFs. Data collection involved surveys administered to a social insurance company's ERP project team in Indonesia. This study revealed 15 success factors, categorized into organization, process, and technology dimensions. Organization emerged as the most crucial, followed by technology and process. Among these, five CSFs stood out: project team competence, vendor and consultant quality, ERP fit, top management support, and hardware and software selection.

INFORMATION SECURITY RISKS MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

In this research, the information phenomenon is examined from a wide perspective, the concepts of data, information and inventory are explained, the impact and dimensions of information technologies on information are revealed, the difficulty of obtaining information security arising from the need to protect information is investigated, and the main elements of information security are highlighted. This work summarizes the security processes needed to create effective information security in an environment where information security attacks are increasing in both number and variety. As a result, the issues explained, investigated and summarized were widely evaluated, and an important step was taken to create a new technology. Keywords: inventory, security, information security, information

Development of an online evaluation awareness scale

The COVID-19 epidemic has precipitated a rapid and widespread adoption of online education, leading to its normalization in contemporary society. Online education is evident across several educational levels. However, assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of these training programs can only be achieved by implementing a suitable evaluation methodology. One of the primary challenges associated with online education is the difficulty in assessing its quality and effectiveness. One of the contributing factors to this issue is the instructor's lack of technological skills and knowledge relevant to online teaching. This research aims to develop a scale (Online Evaluation Awareness-OnEvA) to determine the instructors’ awareness of online evaluation. 165 participants’ data from 63 universities was used for exploratory factor analysis. The items of the scale are designed to measure awareness in both pedagogical and technological dimensions. The items in the pedagogical dimension include the essential competencies that instructors should possess, and alternative evaluation methods offered online. In the technological dimension, the items are created to determine instructors’ awareness of the use of technological platforms and tools. For the next step, a confirmatory factor analysis was performed to establish the scale’s construct validity with 161 instructors. Additionally, the scale’s internal consistency was determined to be high, with a Cronbach's alpha of .964. It is affirmed that this awareness scale developed within the scope of this research will contribute to the development of future models or frameworks related to the dimensions of evaluation knowledge in online learning.

IMPROVING THE PERFORMANCE OF SUSTAINABLE HUMAN RESOURCES IN COFFEE BEAN SUPPLY IN THE SATAK COFFEE AGROINDUSTRY, KEDIRI DISTRICT

The supply of coffee beans in Indonesia involves several stakeholders, namely farmers, collectors and KUB (Joint Business Group). Sustainable supply activities are human, economic, social, environmental and technological resource management activities. The aim of this research is to analyze the sustainability performance of human resources in the supply of coffee beans in Indonesia. The data processing stage is identifying the supply of coffee beans in Indonesia. Analysis of identifying the supply of coffee beans in Indonesia, analysis of added value, measurement and assessment of the sustainable supply performance index for coffee beans. The added value of coffee bean supply was analyzed using the Hayami modification. SCOR-AHP (Supply Chain Operations Reference-Analytical Hierarchy Process) is used to measure the sustainability performance of human resources. The supply status of coffee beans is calculated using the Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS) technique with R software. The value added ratio for coffee farmers is low (46.58%) compared to collectors with (71.31%) and KUB (86.35% ). Farmers' supply performance is 71.99% lower than collectors with a value of 88.15% and KUB 86.77%. The economic dimension of sustainability is almost sustainable (78.39), the social dimension is sustainable (89.25), the environmental dimension is almost sustainable (79.63) and the technological dimension is almost sustainable (67.68). The aggregate value of sustainable supply shows 78.72% which means almost sustainable. This research recommends a strategy for building partnerships between coffee farmers and coffee cafes to improve performance and sustainability of the supply of coffee beans.

Evaluation of Urban Farming System Sustainability in Central Province of Jakarta, Indonesia

The objective of the research was to evaluate the degree of sustainability of urban farming development in Petamburan, Central Jakarta. This research used a descriptive methodology approach using a qualitative approach (1) research preparation stage (2) collection stage (3) data analysis stage to check the degree of sustainability of urban agriculture using the Multi Dimension Scaling (MDS) approach. The study results indicate that urban agriculture in the special capital region of Jakarta is well known and is strongly supported by the residents of Petamburan Village, Tanah Abang District, Central Jakarta. Urban residents generally already have knowledge and insight about urban agriculture. The community support for urban agricultural activities uses their yards to cultivate vegetables, herbs, and other seasonal fruit crops. The development of urban farming in Petamburan, Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta results from the analysis of four dimensioned model MDS is not sustainable. The analysis results of each dimension consist of the ecological dimension 14.55%, the economic dimension 13.85%, the social dimension 13.94%, and the technological dimension 13.43%. In the future, urban farming should pay attention to the supporting factors of the sustainability of agricultural development. The factors include the yard area, types, and variations of cultivated plants, the application of innovation and technology that urban communities can accept and develop, increased counselling and community development, and intensive and tax-free provision for yards with urban farming. The study show that index of urban agriculture sustainability in Petamburan Village, Tanah Abang District, Central Jakarta is very low, including the destructive and unsustainable category depending on the results of multidimensional analysis of both economic, ecological, social, and technological dimensions so that improvements are needed through counselling and motivation for urban agriculture actors.

Integration of renewable energy in industrial operations: experiences from Canada, USA, and Africa

This research paper explores integrating renewable energy into industrial operations, drawing insights from experiences in Canada, the United States, and various African nations. Against a global imperative to transition towards sustainable energy sources, the study delves into this transformative process's economic, environmental, and technological dimensions. The economic implications encompass a detailed analysis of upfront capital costs, return on investment, and broader considerations such as job creation and market competitiveness. Environmental impacts, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air and water quality, underscore the transformative potential of renewable energy integration. The technological landscape, marked by innovations in renewable energy technologies and energy storage solutions, offers opportunities for industries to embrace cleaner and more efficient energy practices. However, challenges related to intermittency, grid integration, and technological risks necessitate strategic planning. Barriers and challenges, ranging from regulatory uncertainties to social acceptance issues, are examined, emphasizing the complexities of the transition. The conclusion emphasizes the need for a holistic and strategic approach, including stable policies, financial mechanisms facilitating access to capital, and initiatives promoting awareness.

Real-time energy monitoring systems: Technological applications in Canada, USA, and Africa

Real-time energy monitoring systems are pivotal for reshaping the global energy landscape, optimizing consumption, and fostering sustainability. This research explores the technological, regional, and socio-economic dimensions of energy monitoring, focusing on Canada, the USA, and Africa. The technological landscape includes sensor technologies, communication protocols, and emerging innovations like AI and blockchain. Regional perspectives highlight diverse challenges and opportunities, while a cross-regional analysis emphasizes collaboration and mutual learning. Challenges such as data security and integration are viewed as catalysts for improvement. Real-time monitoring's impact on sustainability is profound, reducing carbon footprints, optimizing resource utilization, and yielding economic benefits. Improved access to energy and community engagement underscores its positive social impact. The global journey towards sustainability is enhanced through collaboration, technology transfer, and the collective pursuit of a resilient and environmentally conscious energy future.

HUBUNGAN MODAL SOSIAL PETANI DENGAN KEBERLANJUTAN USAHATANI PADI SAWAH DI DESA WAWOURU KECAMATAN PALANGGA KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of social capital among rice paddy farmers in Wawouru Village and to determine the sustainability of wet-rice farming in the area. The study population consisted of 25 farmers, and the research sample was determined using the census method. A quantitative approach was employed to conduct the research. The data collection techniques used in this study included interviews, recordings, and documentation methods, utilizing media in the form of questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis with the class interval formula and Spearman rank correlation analysis, with the help of SPSS software version 16. The results showed that the social capital owned by wet-rice farmers in Wawouru Village consisted of aspects of trust, norms, and social networks, each of which was in the high category. The sustainability of wet-rice farming in Wawouru Village is high, as reflected in the social, technological, and institutional dimensions. The relationship between social capital and the sustainability of wet-rice farming in Wawouru Village is positive and significant, with a relationship strength of 68.9%, indicating a close relationship.

Will policy help close the digital gender divide? An intersectional feminist policy analysis of Ethiopia's national digital policy

AbstractMotivationDigital technologies can enable development, but they risk further entrenching inequalities in society, such as through the digital gender divide. The divide can not only slow development, but also slow progress towards gender equality. As digital technologies become increasingly used by governments for economic development, the gendered aspects of digital technologies need to be considered.PurposeThis study aims to investigate how Ethiopia's current national policies involving digital technologies consider the digital gender divide. It asks the following research questions: (1) how do Ethiopian government policies relating to engagement with digital technologies consider gender and gendered issues? And (2) how do Ethiopian government policies capture the causes of the digital gender divide?Methods and approachI critically analyse Ethiopian policies using an intersectional feminist lens, adapted from the work of Kanenberg et al. (2019). I applied this to the Ten Years Development Plan (10YP), Digital Ethiopia 2025, Ethiopian Education Roadmap 2018–2030 (EEDR), and Education Sector Development Programme VI (ESDP VI).FindingsThe four policies show little consideration of gender and gendered dimensions of digital technologies. They rarely address the causes of the digital gender divide. Above all, they do not consider the underlying sociocultural barriers women face if they want to engage with digital technologies. The policies are thus unlikely to help close the digital gender divide. Ethiopia's integrationist approach to gender, as well as the patriarchal structures within which the policies are designed, probably explain these findings.Policy implicationsA transformational gender policy paradigm, one designed to position women and men to challenge the patriarchal structures they live within, is suggested as a means of capturing and confronting the barriers women face to engaging with digital technologies in the long term.