Technological Dimensions Research Articles

Advancing Sustainability Assessment of Renewable Energy: A Study on Indicator‐to‐Framework Methods and Associated Rule Mining

ABSTRACTDivergent sustainable development perspectives, mathematical model limitations, and varying scenarios contribute to uncertainty in assessing renewable energy sustainability. To tackle these challenges, this study conducts a comprehensive literature review, employs an analogy, and utilizes knowledge discovery techniques with an indicator‐to‐framework approach. Qualitative classification and rule mining elucidate the interrelationships among dimensions, indicators, and scopes, enhancing assessment coherence. The study identifies 227 indicators across five dimensions and nine scopes, highlighting key rules through Apriori algorithm. Strong rules, meeting a support threshold of 0.22, confidence of 0.7, and Lift of 2.512, underscore the significance of environmental, economic, social, and technological dimensions. Environmental indicators like CO2 emissions, NOX emissions, and SO2 emissions feature prominently. The harmonization of dimensions, indicators, and scopes streamlines research and mitigates ambiguities. Appendices augment rules with frequent indicators, enriching insights. This data‐driven methodology provides a practical solution to the complexities of selecting appropriate indicators for such assessments.

Digital happiness in tourism: towards a conceptual framework

ABSTRACT This research note scrutinises the ambivalent dimensions of digital technology within the realm of tourism, highlighting its complex interaction with physical engagement. By exploring existing literature on the evolving landscape of tourism experiences through an interdisciplinary approach, this paper recognises that the current analysis of digital technology use in tourism often remains biased and narrow. Furthermore, despite ongoing debates surrounding digital well-being, discussions have been largely restricted to the utility, emotional use, and moderation of digital resources. Drawing on philosophical insights from the Chinese classic I-Ching, which offers a holistic understanding of happiness in the contemporary digital era and the tourism domain, this research provides a comprehensive theoretical blueprint for digital happiness in tourism. This robust framework aims to elucidate the harmonious integration of digital elements into the tourism landscape.

Barriers and Opportunities in Implementing Carbon Neutrality Goals in China’s Heavy Industries

The transition to carbon neutrality in China’s heavy industries is essential for mitigating global climate change, given the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This study systematically examines the multifaceted barriers and opportunities influencing decarbonization efforts in these industries. Employing expert-driven methodologies, including the Delphi method and the best-worst method (BWM), the research identifies and prioritizes critical challenges, such as the high upfront costs for renewable technologies, the technological dependency on coal, and the fragmented regulatory frameworks. It highlights transformative opportunities, emphasizing advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), renewable energy integration, and strengthened carbon pricing mechanisms. The findings reveal the interaction between economic, technological, and policy dimensions, underscoring the need for coordinated interventions to overcome entrenched barriers. The study contributes to theoretical advancements by integrating expert insights with robust multi-criteria decision-making techniques and offers actionable pathways for policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate industrial decarbonization. These insights align with international climate objectives, providing a scalable framework for global sustainable transitions in energy-intensive sectors.

Conceptualizing data-driven entrepreneurship: from knowledge creation to entrepreneurial opportunities and innovation

Abstract Digital transformation and the possibility to collect large amount of data, the so-called big data, from different sources can lead to the redefinition of business processes, models and infrastructures. In this respect, data-driven decision making (DDDM) emphasizes the need to rethink management practices to view data as a driving force that can improve the effectiveness of decisions and nurture innovation. Over time, data-driven principles have been reframed as the foundations for the development of a new mind-set that considers data as a key asset that redesigns entrepreneurship and encompasses orientation, culture and human resources management to help entrepreneurs catch, evaluate and launch entrepreneurial opportunities that can improve technology and knowledge by stimulating innovation. For this reason, the study aims at reconceptualizing entrepreneurship according to a multi-levelled perspective based on the integration of cultural, human, knowledge-based and technological dimension to assess the impact of data-driven management on entrepreneurial opportunities creation and on the development of different kinds of innovation. To assess these goals, empirical research based on constructivist grounded theory and on the administration of semi-structured interviews is performed through the investigation of an Italian public–private Consortium specialized in big data. The findings allow the elaboration of a conceptual framework which classifies the activities of data-driven entrepreneurial processes, the phases of opportunity creation and the different kinds of innovation enabled in the Consortium by guiding entrepreneurs and managers in the elaboration of effective data analysis strategies.

Balancing Care Responsibilities with Remote Work

The upsurge in remote and hybrid work practices has prompted researchers to explore the technological, organizational, and psychological dimensions of remote work. However, the nuanced dynamics of balancing familial duties, especially care work for older adults, and professional work is often overlooked in the literature. This balancing act introduces unique stressors, blurring work and personal life boundaries, potentially causing physical stress or prompting care providers to leave their jobs. The inherent nature of remote work executed within the familial sphere underscores the importance of understanding how care responsibilities impact the remote work experience. This study addresses this gap by focusing on informal care providers, an understudied population in the CSCW remote work literature. Through a diary study and interviews, we investigate challenges remote workers face and the role of technology in their work. Findings highlight the prevalence of care work, emphasizing the need for targeted technological interventions to support the well-being and productivity of remote workers managing care duties. Critical challenges include familial responsibilities on higher-stress days, lack of communication regarding availability, personal time sacrifices for productivity, coordination in place making among care providers, and multitasking on days with familial responsibilities or distractions. This exploratory study underscores the importance of assisting care providers in a way that embraces their (possible) role as remote workers, offering insights for future research and technological interventions to support remote workers navigating the complexities of care work.

Generational Differences in Online Shopping: Millennials VS. Generation Z

The generational shift in shopping behaviors between Millennials and Generation Z has reshaped the retail landscape, driven by advancements in technology and social media influence. This study investigates the distinct online shopping behaviors of these cohorts, focusing on their preferences, motivations, and decision-making processes. The phenomenon of divergent generational shopping habits highlights the increasing reliance of Generation Z on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, contrasting with Millennials’ methodical approach, emphasizing brand reputation and sustainability. The primary objective is to analyze the factors influencing each generation's shopping behavior, providing actionable insights for businesses to develop tailored marketing strategies. The novelty of this study lies in its comparative approach, integrating behavioral and technological dimensions to bridge the generational divide in online retail preferences. Findings reveal that Generation Z prioritizes visual content, convenience, and impulsive purchases, driven by social media trends and influencer endorsements. Conversely, Millennials emphasize trust, detailed product research, and alignment with sustainability values. Recommendations include leveraging social proof and interactive campaigns for Generation Z, while focusing on transparent and ethical messaging for Millennials. These insights guide brands in creating inclusive and effective marketing strategies that cater to the unique needs of both generational cohorts

The Influence of Customer Relationship Management Organizational Practices and Customer Relationship Management Technological Practices on Veterinary Clinic Performance Mediated by Customer Retention (Study on Veterinary Clinics in Malang)

This study aims to analyze the effect of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) practices on organizational and technological dimensions on veterinary clinic performance, considering customer retention as a mediating variable. The study was conducted at a pet clinic in Malang City using a quantitative approach and hypothesis testing through the Partial Least Square (PLS) method. The results showed that Organizational CRM practices had a positive and significant effect on clinic performance and customer retention, while Technology CRM practices had a significant effect on customer retention but were not significant on clinic performance directly. Customer retention proved to be a partial mediator in the relationship between Organizational CRM and clinic performance, as well as a full mediator in the relationship between Technology CRM and clinic performance. These findings emphasize the importance of focusing on organizational management and CRM technology integration that supports customer retention to improve veterinary clinic performance. This study provides theoretical and practical contributions related to CRM implementation in the context of increasingly competitive animal health services.

Investigating the Impact of Determinants Influencing Students' Readiness for Digital Transformation in Academic Institutions in Pakistan

ABSTRACTIt is crucial to assess the digital transformation readiness of students in order to develop knowledgeable, capable and qualified alumnus who can enhance the qualified personnel within a country. This study will help HEIs in examining whether their students have the skills they need to survive in the 4IR era. Data have been collected from Higher Educational institutions (HEIs) which were listed in QS‐Ranking list. Purposive sampling technique was employed for sample selection and the respondents were students. For analysis, Smart‐PLS4 and SPSS‐24 were used. According to the findings of structural equation modelling, students' traits, technological understanding of the 4IR and organisational aspects have a big impact on how well‐prepared they are for the 4IR. Additionally, organisational aspects also have influence on students' readiness. Additionally, the organisational dimensions also have impact on students' understanding of 4IR technology. Additionally, students' understanding of 4IR technology and organisational dimension has a big impact on their qualities connected to 4IR. Higher education institutions can help students do well in a digital learning setting by creating support services that are tailored to their needs and concerns. These services could include workshops on digital literacy or one‐on‐one coaching. Further, the study adds to our understanding of what affects student readiness by pointing out the specific problems students face and the things that help them deal with them. The results can be used to help create lessons that better incorporate digital tools and skills, making sure that students have the skills they need for an educational world that has become more digital. The study's conclusion has policy implications for HEIs, highlighting the necessity of institutional policies that support digital transformation. By giving faculty members the chance to grow professionally and by giving them opportunity to learn about and practise new pedagogical approaches and emerging technologies, HEIs could encourage faculty members to conduct research and innovation in their learning as well as pedagogical methods. This provides us with fresh perspectives on the strategic importance of students' readiness in encouraging HEIs to promote digital transformation. HEIs can encourage creativity and business, and working together across disciplines and organisational aspects like academic programmes, training, technical infrastructure and others is essential for putting students on the path to a better future through this study.

Evaluating technological intelligence dimensions in innovative startups: A confirmatory factor analysis approach

This article aims to study technological intelligence in innovative startups in Algeria using Kerr’s model. Technological intelligence consists of four main dimensions: intelligent systems, competitive intelligence, market intelligence, and intelligent processes. To collect data, a questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 255 innovative startups in Algeria, and the data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with Smart PLS software. The results indicated that the two-dimensional model combining intelligent systems and competitive intelligence provided the best fit, with a relationship value of 0.605 between these two dimensions. On the other hand, the relationship between market intelligence and competitive intelligence was weak, with a value of 0.281, reflecting the limited use of analytical methods by startups to monitor competitors. Based on these findings, the study recommends that innovative startups in Algeria enhance their use of competitive intelligence and intelligent systems to improve decision-making processes. Additionally, these startups should make better use of available market technologies to develop their products and services, while focusing on continuous competitor analysis and identifying opportunities. In conclusion, technological intelligence is a strategic element for startups, helping them improve their performance and achieve a competitive edge in the changing business environment in Algeria.

Toward the stars: Technological, ethical, and sociopolitical dimensions of interstellar exploration

Toward the stars: Technological, ethical, and sociopolitical dimensions of interstellar exploration

DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF A SECURITY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED ORGANIZATIONAL SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY

The study focuses on the development and deployment of a Security Information Management System (SIMS) to enhance organizational safety and efficiency. It addresses the critical need for robust data security frameworks in modern organizations, emphasizing the protection of information integrity, availability, and confidentiality. Rooted in historical and evolving security paradigms, the research highlights the transition from traditional military-focused strategies to comprehensive approaches encompassing economic, environmental, and technological dimensions. Using the Object-Oriented System Development Methodology (OOSDM), the study designed and implemented a real-time SIMS integrating authentication and authorization processes. The proposed system features modular architecture comprising Web, Application, and Data tiers to ensure scalability, security, and efficiency. Advanced tools, such as encryption, intrusion detection systems, and login tracking, safeguard against cyber threats, including hacking and denial-of-service attacks. Rigorous testing of the system demonstrated its effectiveness in mitigating security risks, supporting decision-making with timely data access, and enhancing operational efficiency. The findings underscore the potential of SIMS to secure sensitive organizational data and recommend its adoption, training for security personnel, and regular updates for sustained functionality. This research contributes to advancing information security practices, particularly in dynamic operational environments.

Exploring the role of cultural values on consumers’ organic food consumption: Does blockchain-enabled traceability matter?

Research background: There is limited knowledge about how cultural values influence organic food consumption, as well as how blockchain-enabled traceability facilitates this behavior. Given the increasing need for transparency in food supply chains and increasing interest in sustainable consumption, understanding the role of culture and technological innovations like blockchain is crucial. Purpose of the article: This research applies Hofstede’s cultural dimensions and the Theory of Planned Behavior to investigate the effects of cultural values on organic food consumption, and the moderating role of blockchain-enabled traceability. Therefore, the study aims to contribute to the state of the art by integrating cultural perspectives with technological advancements, offering actionable insights for consumer research and sustainable supply chain management. Methods: Using a purposive sample of 5,326 consumers in Vietnam, the study employs hierarchical multiple regression to test the conceptual model and hypotheses. Findings & value added: The findings reveal that uncertainty avoidance, collectivism, and long-term orientation positively influence attitude toward purchasing organic foods, which in turn enhances purchase intentions and behaviors. Conversely, masculinity negatively impacts these attitudes. However, power distance and individualism do not significantly affect attitudes or purchase behaviors. Furthermore, blockchain-enabled traceability significantly moderates the effects of perceived behavioral control on both organic food purchase intentions and behaviors. By bridging the research gap on consumer perspectives on blockchain adoption and cultural impacts on sustainable consumption, the study advances the existing literature and provides a comprehensive framework to understand and facilitate organic food consumption. These contributions have long-term implications for integrating cultural and technological dimensions into consumer behavior research and practical food supply chain management decision-making.

Information technology and its impact on strategic performance in Yemeni telecommunications companies

Information technology is critical to improve and raise the level of strategic performance of organizations. This study aimed to investigate the impact of information technology and information technology dimensions (hardware, software, databases, communication networks, and personnel skills) on the strategic performance of Yemeni telecommunications companies and assess the overall level of information technologies and strategic performance of respective companies. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and used a questionnaire for data collection. The sample of the study comprised 560 employees out of the total population of 2,238 employees in chosen Yemeni companies. The selected employees included CEOs, deputy executive managers, department managers, section heads, supervisors, and specialists due to the relevance of their roles to information technology and strategic performance. Accordingly, 479 questionnaires were successfully retrieved and analyzed. The findings showed that information technology positively impacts strategic performance (R2 = 0.385; p < 0.05), indicating that information technology plays a significant role in enhancing strategic performance. The dimensions (hardware, databases, and personnel skills) have a statistically significant effect on strategic performance (β = 0.212, 0.205, 0.340; p < 0.05), while software and communication networks showed no statistically significant effect (β = 0.043, 0.033; p > 0.05). Additionally, the findings revealed a high level of information technology and strategic performance in Yemeni companies. These findings indicate that Yemeni telecommunications companies place significant emphasis on information technology and strategic performance.

Unlocking Innovation Capacity: Strategies for Micro-, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Ukrainian Agriculture

Innovation is a crucial driver of competitiveness and development of enterprises. Access to innovation is influenced by a multitude of factors, including, among others, an enterprise’s strategy, operation efficiency, and the availability of resources. Middle, small, and micro-enterprises (MSMEs) are pivotal to agricultural production, employment, and food security in Ukraine; however, innovative technologies have predominantly been accessible to large enterprises. The aim of this study is to examine the innovation capacity of MSMEs in the Ukrainian agricultural sector and to identify potential strategies for integrating them to improve access to and inclusion of innovative practices. This study undertakes a quantitative evaluation of the innovation capacity of agricultural enterprises in Ukraine for the years 2019–2022, the latter marking the onset of wartime conditions. A comprehensive framework comprising indicators across technological, resource, financial, managerial, and human capital dimensions was developed to assess the innovation capacity of these enterprises. Utilizing data normalization techniques, composite indicators that offer a unified measure of innovation capacity were derived. Our findings substantiate the Schumpeterian hypothesis within the Ukrainian agricultural sector, revealing that MSMEs exhibit significantly lower innovation capacity compared to their larger counterparts, which causes serious problems with access to innovation. This disparity is particularly pronounced in terms of resources and technological capabilities, whereas the gap in financial performance and managerial and human capital is not significant. Conclusively, the recommendations on strengthening the innovative capacity of agricultural MSMEs—based on integration strategies—have been developed.

A Roadmap for Software Testing in Open-Collaborative and AI-Powered Era

Internet technology has given rise to an open-collaborative software development paradigm, necessitating the open-collaborative schema to software testing. It enables diverse and globally distributed contributions, but also presents significant challenges to efficient testing processes, coordination among personnel, and management of testing artifacts. At the same time, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have enhanced testing capabilities and enabling automation, while also introducing new testing needs and unique challenges for AI-based systems. In this context, this paper explores software testing in the open-collaborative and AI-powered era, focusing on the interrelated dimensions of process, personnel, and technology. Among them, process involves managing testing workflows and artifacts to improve efficiency, personnel emphasizes the role of individuals in ensuring testing quality through collaboration and contributions, while technology refers to AI methods that enhance testing capabilities and address challenges in AI-based systems. Furthermore, we delve into the challenges and opportunities arising from emerging technologies such as large language models (LLMs) and the AI model-centric development paradigm.

Fostering Holistic Thinking: Design of an Interdisciplinary Systems-Thinking Course

In an era dominated by intricate challenges, navigating complex systems and wicked problems is paramount for the engineering discipline's evolution. This necessity beckons a departure from conventional educational paradigms towards a holistic and transdisciplinary pedagogical approach. This paper delineates the development of a systems-thinking course tailored to instill such competencies. Grounded in a robust framework of learning outcomes, the course is strategically crafted to facilitate a comprehensive examination of complex systems and the nuanced nature of wicked problems. The curriculum, rich in experiential learning opportunities, weaves together practical exercises, theoretical discussions, and collaborative project work, enabling students to cultivate a deep, holistic understanding of the challenges at the intersection of political, environmental, social, technological, economic, and legal dimensions. By employing a variety of system-mapping techniques, along with primary and secondary research methods, and honing effective communication skills, students are equipped to confront real-world issues with enhanced analytical and critical thinking capabilities.

Virtual Try-On Systems in Fashion Consumption: A Systematic Review

The application of virtual try-on (VTO) technologies in the fashion industry is garnering increasing attention and is regarded as a significant innovation in enhancing the consumer experience for fashion shoppers. This study conducts a systematic review to evaluate the impact of VTO systems on consumer behavior and experiences within the fashion industry. By analyzing 69 research articles, we identified key factors influencing consumers’ purchasing decisions and VTO adoption intentions. These factors include attitudes, media, symbolic gratification, technological gratification, emotional values, utilitarian values, and user attributes. Based on these findings, we construct conceptual frameworks that clearly delineate how direct factors and their influencing elements impact consumers’ purchase and technology adoption behaviors. This review synthesizes the psychological and technological dimensions shaping consumer behavior, addressing critical gaps in the literature specific to fashion consumption. Moreover, future research directions were discussed. By addressing key challenges such as boundary factors, user segmentation, and technological advancements, this study offers actionable insights to guide researchers and practitioners in creating more personalized, immersive, and effective VTO systems in the fashion industry.

Perspectives on Technological, Ethical, and Media Communication Dimensions in Conservation Research Projects Applying ART to Critically Endangered Wildlife Species

Perspectives on Technological, Ethical, and Media Communication Dimensions in Conservation Research Projects Applying ART to Critically Endangered Wildlife Species

METHOD FOR ASSESSING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE DISTRICT HEATING SYSTEM UNDER MARKET CONDITIONS

In response to global warming and the critical need for sustainable energy solutions, district heating systems (DHS) have emerged as an area of significant focus due to their potential to enhance resource efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve economic outputs. This research addresses the critical issue of establishing a methodological framework for evaluating the efficiency of DHS as market relations evolve within the heating sector. The study's aim is to develop and validate methodological principles that assess the operational, economic, and technological dimensions of DHS in a competitive market landscape. The framework encompasses the complex interplay of regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, production technologies, and consumer engagement strategies. Key objectives include analyzing current challenges in implementing competitive market structures, justifying the non-linear nature of cost functions for energy producers, and developing criteria for the equitable distribution of thermal energy losses. The overarching goal is to strategically propel DHS towards greater efficiency and sustainability by using renewable energy sources (RES). The research utilizes simulation modeling in a case study of Irpin city, Ukraine, employing machine learning and computer vision technologies through the "Solvergy: Buildings" mobile application to provide rapid, detailed energy performance assessments. Results from the simulation in "Solvergy: Systems" software indicate benefits from the market conditions functioning in DHS, quantified at $727,120 per year, and highlight the cost-saving potential of the RES-based supply diversification structure. The relative market efficiency at 28.05% suggests that the market delivers high potential economic value relative to a scenario without market conditions. The study concludes that transitioning to market relations and integrating independent energy producers can lead to substantial system efficiency improvements, lower thermal energy prices, and enhanced sustainability in DHS. Suggested policy measures advocate for the modernizing of infrastructure and the implementation of efficient technologies within a competitive, consumer-oriented market environment, thereby facilitating the decarbonization process and optimizing system performance.

The Impact of Technological Advancements in Accounting Information Systems on Achieving Alignment Between Financial Accounting Theory and Practical Application at Jordanian Commercial Banks

The study aimed to find out the impact of technological advancements in accounting information systems on achieving alignment between financial accounting theory and practical application at Jordanian commercial banks. The descriptive analytical approach was adopted using the quantitative method to achieve the purpose of the study. A questionnaire tool was constructed to collect data and verify its reliability and stability. A sample of 385 employees of Jordanian commercial banks answered the questionnaire. The results showed that AIS technological progress has a significant impact in achieving alignment between financial accounting theory and practical application in Jordanian commercial banks. All technological dimensions such as the technical dimension, human dimension, organizational dimension, security, environmental and administrative dimensions showed a positive and noticeable impact. It was found that the environmental and technical dimensions had the greatest impact, while the organizational dimension came in last place in terms of impact.