Total Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach Research Articles

Mapping the critical factors of emerging technologies adoption intention in foodservice industry: a modified total interpretive structural modeling approach

ABSTRACT The advancement in technology is transforming the competitive ecosystem of the foodservice industry, thus enabling firms to enhance their intention to adopt emerging technologies. This transformation enables foodservice industry-based firms to focus on innovation and emerging technologies adoption within a rapidly changing business landscape. This study explores the critical factors of emerging technologies adoption intention in the foodservice industry and employs “modified total interpretive structural modeling” and “matrices impacts cruises multiplication applique classement” analysis to create a hierarchical model that establishes the relationship among identified factors impacting emerging technologies adoption intention. A five-level hierarchical model is developed. Findings of this study indicate that organizational characteristics and competitive pressure experienced by the foodservice industry are the driving factors that impact emerging technologies adoption intention. This paper helps to understand the dynamics between identified factors of technology adoption in the context of the foodservice industry using frameworks (“unified theory of acceptance and use of technology” and “technology acceptance model”). The proposed hierarchical model provides a structural framework that helps practitioners and researchers to understand the interrelation among critical factors of emerging technologies adoption intention in the rapidly evolving dynamic ecosystem of the foodservice industry.

Evaluating the impact of digital and financial literacy on MSME performance

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the critical success factors that contribute to the performance of micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the context of digital and financial literacy. This study employed the total interpretive structural modeling approach to construct a hierarchical model of important success elements and analyze their direct and indirect interconnections. This article specifies six success factors that impact the performance of MSMEs, with the consideration of their effects and value generation leading to enhanced performance. The results indicate that entrepreneurial orientation and digital literacy are the primary components of the developed model, with all factors collectively contributing to overall performance. By identifying and categorizing key components within the strategic model, the study provides MSME founders with a systematic way to enhance business competency, which has significant consequences for business growth and success. The hierarchical model developed in this research assists policy makers and practitioners in improving the performance of MSMEs.

Fostering environmentally sustainable business: Analysis of factors from entrepreneurial ecosystem perspective

Sustainable business practices are paramount for long-term environmental preservation and fostering economic growth. Despite the extensive body of literature on various aspects of business sustainability, there remains a noticeable gap in understanding the fundamental factors influencing its adoption. Drawing on the entrepreneurial ecosystem perspective, this study endeavors to examine the hierarchical importance of various factors affecting the environmental sustainability of the business. Employing a comprehensive literature review, we meticulously identified a list of factors and performed analysis using data gathered from experts. In particular, we used Total Interpretive Structural Modelling and MICMAC approach to analyze the identified factors, with an aim to uncover their interlinkage and association. Our findings underscore the critical role played by the government in shaping business sustainability. Additionally, factors such as consumer, technological innovation, and market competition also hold substantial importance. In contrast, factors such as financial considerations, stakeholders, leadership dynamics, human resources, infrastructure, and internal organizational factors appear to have comparatively less influence. Our study not only reveals the significance of these factors but also unveils the intricate web of interrelationships among them. The resulting strategic theoretical framework offers valuable insights for managers and policymakers, highlighting the practical relevance and contextualized interactions among various factors.

Contextual barriers to implementing pandemic HRM in Indian manufacturing SMEs: A comprehensive analysis

BACKGROUND: Existing literature lacks in-depth analyses and identification of barriers to implementing HR practices that affect employee health and well-being, especially during and after the pandemic. Moreover, existing studies primarily focus on large organizations with generic HR contexts. Therefore, this research contributes by evaluating the contextual relationship between barriers to implementing pandemic Human Resource Management (HRM) practices in Indian manufacturing SMEs. OBJECTIVE: The post-pandemic landscape has necessitated a reevaluation of Human Resource (HR) practices, particularly in terms of employee health and well-being while balancing organizational performance goals. This study seeks to identify and evaluate the significant barriers hindering the implementation of re-designed HR policies, focusing on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector in developing countries during and after the pandemic transition. METHODS: The study initially identified ten barriers through a thorough literature review, which was then validated by experts. Subsequently, the interrelationships among these barriers were explored, and their structural hierarchy was established using the Total Interpretive Structural Modelling (TISM) approach. Additionally, a MICMAC (Matriced Impact Croises Multiplication Applique) analysis was performed to assess the driving-dependence power of each barrier. RESULTS: “Manager’s resistance to change” and “employee’s resistance to change” were found to be highly dependent on the other identified barriers. Among these, “lack of skilled managers at affordable costs” and “implementation expenses of new normal HRM practices” emerged as the most critical barriers, with the potential to impact all other barriers in the implementation of re-designed policies. CONCLUSIONS: The study helps owners of manufacturing SMEs and managers to understand the significant barriers to implementing HR policies, particularly in frequent pandemic situations for enhancing employees’ health and well-being while ensuring organizational performance. The planned framework might make it easier for practitioners and decision-makers to comprehend how the various implementation barriers relate to one another. The study’s focus on Indian manufacturing SMEs limits the generalizability of findings to other contexts. Reliance on expert opinions introduces bias, and further validation through empirical research is needed.

Deciphering the factors shaping blockchain technology adoption in the BFSI industry: TISM-MICMAC approach

Purpose As the global financial ecosystem grapples with the complexities of modernization, blockchain technology emerges as a pivotal catalyst, offering the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) industry unprecedented opportunities for secured digital transformation and enhanced customer trust. To gain a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology adoption, this study aims to identify the factors and establish the contextual interrelationships among them. Design/methodology/approach The authors have identified the factors affecting blockchain technology adoption in BFSI industry through extensive literature review and experts’ interviews. After identification of factors, contextual relationship has been established based on experts’ opinion and total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) approach. Furthermore, factors are categorized into autonomous, dependent, linkage and driving variables using cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification analysis. Findings The TISM-based structural model is divided into eight different hierarchal levels in which Government support is placed on the lower most layer (level 8) which indicates that this is the most crucial factor in blockchain adoption. Further social influence and security are placed on seventh and sixth level in the hierarchy. Practical implications The results of this study will help the policymakers to direct the resources from the most crucial factor to other factors in the hierarchy as per their relevance. In essence, this study serves as a guiding compass, steering the course of blockchain technology adoption in the BFSI sector toward a more secure and digitally transformed future. Originality/value In the current landscape, blockchain technology remains in its nascent stage, leaving ample room for exploration and innovation. This study stands as the pioneering effort to comprehensively identify and establish the contextual relationships among the adoption factors of blockchain technology within BFSI industry. Through rigorous TISM analysis, this paper enriches the existing body of knowledge on blockchain technology adoption.

Critical Success Factors for Emerging Technology Adoption, Strategic Flexibility, and Competitiveness: An Evidence-Based Total Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach (TISM-E)

Critical Success Factors for Emerging Technology Adoption, Strategic Flexibility, and Competitiveness: An Evidence-Based Total Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach (TISM-E)

Barriers to the adoption of blockchain technology in the construction industry: a total interpretive structural modeling (T ISM) and DEMAT EL approach

Purpose The purpose of this study is to identify the key barriers to the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT) in the construction industry. This investigation seeks to understand the challenges that hinder the implementation of blockchain in this sector. Design/methodology/approach The study begins with a comprehensive review of relevant literature to identify the main barriers to blockchain adoption in construction. It then uses an integrated approach using total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement to investigate the interrelationships among these barriers. In addition, the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method is used to establish cause-and-effect relationships between the identified barriers. Findings The study’s integrated TISM and DEMATEL methodology reveals several crucial barriers to blockchain adoption in the construction industry, including regulatory uncertainty, data privacy and security concerns, limited knowledge and expertise and dependence on blockchain operators. It also identifies scalability issues, uncertain benefits and lack of collaboration as dependent barriers, influenced by other identified barriers. Originality/value This study contributes original value by applying an integrated methodological approach to understand the complex interrelationships and dependencies among barriers to blockchain adoption in the construction industry. The findings provide decision-makers with insights to prioritize and effectively manage the key driving barriers, enhancing the understanding and strategic planning for blockchain implementation in this sector.

Digital Transformation of Incumbent Pipeline Firms through Platformization

ABSTRACT Advancements in digital technology necessitate a shift from traditional linear buyer-supplier value chains to a network-centric approach facilitated by digital platforms. Despite digital platforms being a dominant model for transformation, limited research has explored the enablers for incumbent pipeline firms to embrace platformization. To address this gap, this study reviews existing literature on digital transformation, identifying nine enablers for digital platformization: changing client behavior, information technology (IT) capabilities development, structural efficiencies, disruptive competitive forces, scope advantages, economic triggers, disruptive third-party technology, creation of autonomous corporate structures, and regulatory compliance. Case studies of platformization in diverse industries are analyzed using the modified total interpretive structural modeling (m-TISM) approach, resulting in a hierarchical model with five levels. This model delineates interrelationships among trigger events, external enablers, internal organizational enablers, process enablers, and outcome drivers. Furthermore, the study highlights that the creation and extraction of value from digital platforms are operationalized through e-business strategies, contributing insights to e-business literature by discussing the implications of these enablers on dimensions such as commerce, collaboration, communication, connection, and computing.

Are we really addressing the roadblocks to adoption of renewable and sustainable energy technologies? Total interpretive structural modeling approach.

Urban areas serve as a vital contribution to the global structural change towards renewable and sustainable energy technologies which also influence climate change. The aim of this paper is to identify the adoption roadblocks to renewable and sustainable urban energy technologies. This research has three parts: a mini-systematic literature study was conducted to identify the most prevalent roadblocks. Using total interpretive structural modeling (ISM), the relationships between the roadblocks and the source of causation were then examined. The roadblocks are classified based on their dependence and driving powers using MICMAC analysis in the third part of this research. The principal results and major conclusions demonstrate that all roadblocks are necessary for renewable and sustainable urban energy technologies. The roadblocks at level I are insufficient infrastructure, lack of coordination among authorities, lack of quality and reliable data and information, and competition with non-renewable technologies; roadblocks in level II are lack of skilled and trained personnel, limited public participation, awareness, and consumer interest, and lack of standardized technology; roadblock in level III is high initial investment cost; and lastly, roadblocks in level IV are lack of subsidies and financial support programs and absence of coherent related policies. Furthermore, as a result of theMICMAC analysis, none of the aforementioned roadblocks are classified as autonomous variables, implying that they are all required. The dependent roadblocks to renewable and sustainable energy technologies are defined as lack of coordination among authorities, lack of information, and competition with non-renewable technologies. Moreover, linkage roadblocks have high dependence and driving powers which are insufficient infrastructure, limited awareness and consumer interest, and lack of standardized technology. Lastly, high initial investment costs, lack of subsidies and financial support programs, absence of coherent related policies, and lack of skilled and trained personnel are the driving roadblocks with high driving power however not dependent.

An analysis of the inhibitors of resilience in the global value chains of multinational enterprises

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic has showcased the lack of resilience found in the global value chains (GVCs) of multinational enterprises (MNEs). Existing evidence shows that MNEs have only recently and slowly started recovering and attempting to rebuild the resilience of their GVCs. This paper analyzes the challenges/inhibitors faced by MNEs in building their resilience through their GVCs.Design/methodology/approachA four-stage hybrid model was used to identify the interrelationship among the identified inhibitors and to distinguish the most critical ones by ranking them. In the first stage, we employed a modified total interpretive structural modeling (m-TISM) approach to determine the inter-relationship among the inhibitors. Additionally, we identified the inhibitors' driving power and dependency by performing a matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis. In the second stage, we employed the Pythagorean fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (PF-AHP) method to determine the weight of the criteria. The next stage followed, in which we used the Pythagorean fuzzy combined compromise solution (PF-CoCoSo) method to rank the inhibitors. Finally, we performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the robustness of the framework we had built based on the criteria and inhibitors.FindingsWe find business sustainability to have the highest importance and managerial governance as the most critical inhibitor hindering the path to resilience. Based on these insights, we derive four research propositions aimed at strengthening the resilience of such GVCs, followed by their implications for theory and practice.Originality/valueOur findings contribute to the extant literature by uncovering key inhibitors that act as barriers to MNEs. We link out our findings with a number of propositions that we derive, which may be considered for implementation by MNEs and could help them endow their GVCs with resilience.

Modelling the Hindrances to Building Information Modelling Adoption on Construction Projects in Nigeria

This study was motivated by the need to deploy building information modelling (BIM) and its technologies to improve the realisation of construction projects. Prior to the introduction of BIM, the construction industry was confronted with obstacles and was sluggish in adopting change. Until recently, existing BIM research has mostly focused on large enterprises and there has been an apparent pattern of underrepresentation of medium-sized firms in BIM- related studies. Thus, the purpose of this article is to investigate the major hindrances to BIM’s adoption in construction projects as well as the dynamics of these hindrances in a developing country like Nigeria, using the total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) approach. The TISM displayed an 11-level hierarchy of hindrances made up of independent, dependent and linkage categories. Based on the Matrice d’Impacts Croises Multiplication Appliqué a Classement (MICMAC) analysis, “Lack of skilled BIM personnel” had the highest driving and the lowest dependence (independent) power, thus indicating its importance in the adoption of BIM. The findings further showed that “Lack of awareness of BIM” and “Resistance to change” are critical for the adoption of BIM in construction projects. The drivers (dependents) for the ease of adoption of BIM by policymakers and practitioners within the built industry are thus defined in this study. This study contributes to the early studies of BIM adoption from a developing country’s perspective.

Coopetition, strategy, and business performance in the era of digital transformation using a multi-method approach: Some research implications for strategy and operations management

In the context of digital transformation and its profound implications for business performance, the concept of 'coopetition'—the strategic integration of cooperation and competition—has garnered significant scholarly attention. However, a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal factors driving successful coopetition and their direct influence on business performance remains elusive. This empirical study seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by constructing a hierarchical framework employing a modified Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (M-TISM) approach, further substantiated through rigorous validation via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and empirical case analysis. Employing a mixed-methods research design, data is systematically gathered from competitor organizations actively immersed in digital transformation initiatives. The M-TISM framework meticulously captures the intricate interplay and relationships among critical factors, thereby facilitating an exhaustive examination of their combined impact on coopetition outcomes and overall performance within the dynamic landscape of digital transformation. The study employs robust statistical analysis through PLS-SEM, ensuring the methodological integrity of the framework. This developed hierarchical framework, grounded in modified Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (M-TISM) and fortified through PLS-SEM validation and empirical case analyses, significantly contributes to the theoretical underpinnings of coopetition. Noteworthy drivers such as organizational culture, knowledge sharing, trust, resource complementarity, and competitive intensity come to the forefront. Furthermore, the study's empirical insights, derived from case analyses, equip practitioners with actionable guidance for strategically harnessing coopetition in the context of digital transformation. Policymakers, armed with these informed perspectives on the impact of coopetition, are better positioned to craft supportive frameworks that promote optimized performance outcomes within the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Exploring the barriers to ESG adoption using modified TISM approach

PurposeThe study explores the barriers to ESG adoption and develops a hierarchical relationship between identified barriers to determine the driving and dependence power.Design/methodology/approachThrough literature and unstructured interviews nine barriers affecting the adoption of ESG reporting were identified and examined using the modified Total Interpretive Structural Modelling (m-TISM) approach. Further, MICMAC analysis is used to analyse the driver-dependence power amongst the barriers.FindingsIn this analysis, the variable lying at the lowest level of hierarchy are considered to be the critical factor and lack of clarity around regulatory and reporting standards is found to be very critical for ESG adoption. To address impediments to ESG adoption, the government should make ESG disclosure mandatory and clearly explain the rules, regulations and advantages associated with ESG implementation.Originality/valueThe current study is very few among examining the barriers to ESG adoption and steppingstone towards the mandatory implementation of ESG disclosures in current scenario.

Readiness of lean sustainability in healthcare organizations

PurposeThis paper aims to “identify,” “analyse” and “categorise” the readiness factors of lean sustainability in health-care organisation using total interpretive structural modelling (TISM).Design/methodology/approachTo obtain the data, a closed-ended questionnaire was used in addition to a scheduled interview. To identify how the factors interact, the TISM approach was used, and the matriced’ impacts croise’s multiplication applique’e a UN classement (MICMAC) analysis was used to rank and categorise the lean sustainability readiness factors.FindingsThis study identified ten lean sustainability readiness factors for health-care organisation. The identified factors are resources utilization practice (F1), management commitment and leadership (F2), operational flexibility (F3), workforce engagement and time commitment (F4), sustainability motivational factors (F5), awareness of lean and sustainable practice (F6), hospital design (F7), energy efficiency practices in hospitals (F8), responsible autonomy (F9) and new system adoptability training (F10). The key/driving factors are identified in this study are operational flexibility, sustainability motivational factors, management commitment and leadership, new system adoptability training.Research limitations/implicationsThe study focussed primarily on lean sustainability factors for the health-care sector.Practical implicationsThis research will aid key stakeholders and academics in the better understanding the readiness factors that influence lean sustainability in health-care organisation. This study emphasises the factors that must be considered when applying lean sustainable practices in health care as a real-world application in a health-care organisation. These readiness factors for lean sustainability can be used by an organization to comprehend more about the concept and the components that contribute to health-care lean sustainability.Originality/valueThis study proposes the TISM technique for health care, which is a novel attempt in the subject of lean sustainability in this sector.

Unravelling the enablers of Industry 4.0 in Indian automobile industry amid COVID-19: an integrated TISM and fuzzy MICMAC approach

PurposeThis study aims to identify the key enablers for the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) in the automobile industry of India, which has been severely impacted by COVID-19. Adopting I4.0 will provide organizations greater flexibility and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.Design/methodology/approachBased on the literature review and experts’ opinions, 21 enablers were identified. Further, contextual relationships among the identified factors and a hierarchical digraph was developed by using the total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) technique. Finally, fuzzy cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis was conducted to classify the enablers into different categories based on their dependence and driving power.FindingsThe results indicate that top management support, clarity on government policy, strategic vision on I4.0 and development of new industrial policy are the most influential factors, with the highest driving power placed at the bottom of the TISM hierarchical model. Furthermore, agile workforce, smart HR practices and IT standardization and security are identified as linkage enablers with the most driving and dependency power.Practical implicationsThe hierarchical TISM model and fuzzy MICMAC approach provide a comprehensive understanding of the I4.0 implementation process through a visual, logical structure to the managers. It will help the researchers and practitioners understand the contextual relationship among various enablers in fostering the I4.0 adoption process and digital reorganization in the automobile industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.Originality/valueThis study provides a holistic TISM hierarchical framework on I4.0 adoption that will elevate the next maturity level of innovation adoption and may act as a blueprint for automobile industries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Readiness of financial resilience in start-ups

Financial resilience refers to a start-up's capacity to anticipate, plan for, respond to, and adapt to gradual change and abrupt unforeseen shocks to survive and thrive by enacting appropriate economic policies to decrease budget deficits. Economic history tells us that more companies fail to emerge from a downturn than go into or during it. Many studies have been done on financial resilience in many dimensions, but no one has studied start-ups’ organizational readiness for financial resilience. This gap inspires the current research, which uses the Total Interpretive Structural Modelling (TISM) approach to identify financial resilience factors and analyze hierarchical interrelationships start-ups’ organizational readiness factors for financial resilience. This article aims to identify, assess, and categorize start-up organizational preparation elements for financial resilience. The result shows that the first importance should be given to digital financial innovation, liquidity planning, going concern consideration, financial strategy of CFOs, and cyberthreats. Managers of start-ups can utilize the findings of this study to prepare for financial resilience professionally. In a fast-paced environment, start-ups may use financial resilience to gain a competitive edge.

Modelling of consumer challenges and marketing strategies during crisis

PurposeMarketing is all about understanding your consumers and giving them what they want. However, this process becomes more complicated in times of economic crisis and national slowdown. Consumers can become scattered and unpredictable in their behaviour, making it hard to understand what they want or need. At times like these, it is more important than ever to rely on qualitative market research to understand the views of consumers and managers. Thus, this study aims to look at the significant consumer challenges that arise during times of crisis and the marketing strategies that managers prefer to counter the crisis.Design/methodology/approachThe data collected for this study involves an extensive literature review followed by personal interviews with industry experts. This study presents two separate models, indicating hierarchical relationships among consumer challenges during crisis and marketing strategies using the total interpretive structural modelling approach. Further MICMAC analysis (popularly known as cross-impact matrix multiplication) was also performed to assess each variable's driving and dependence power.Findings“Price sensitiveness” and “adaptive buying” result as driving factors with the highest driving and lowest dependence power, which further gives rise to other consumer behaviour challenges. Likewise, the most critical strategies are “information systems” and the formation of “crisis management teams” during a crisis. At the same time, other strategies have resulted as linkage and dependent factors and none as the autonomous factor.Originality/valueThis paper provides a systematic understanding of how a manager can understand the challenges consumers face during a crisis and suggests a powerful summary of strategies companies can implement to sail through a crisis.

Agile readiness for sustainable operations in start-ups

PurposeThis study aims to identify the factors influencing agile readiness in start-ups. Start-ups are being confronted with increased competition, customer demands, technological innovations and changes in the market environment. Adopting agile readiness for sustainable operations is a profitable and dependable way to improve the competition and reduce the number of failures of start-ups. The start-ups may investigate “how” after understanding the “whys.” The answers to these questions will be crucial to develop a strategy and a plan for luring clients, users, investors and partners. Therefore, this study will help in answering these crucial questions by using Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (TISM), whose main aim is to answer the key question of “what,” “how” and “why.” Using the “Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (TISM)” technique, this research tries to “describe,” “analyze” and “categorize” the agile readiness for sustainable operations enablers in start-ups.Design/methodology/approachExpert feedback and literature reviews from various start-ups led to the discovery of 10 enablers. In this study, the TISM technique was used to examine the inter-relationships between the enablers. The agile readiness for sustainable operations enablers was ranked and classified using the “Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC)” technique. They were divided into four different categories: “autonomous,” “independent,” “linkage” and “dependent enablers.”FindingsThe results show that executive-level aid is the key agile readiness factor for sustainable operations. The next priority has been capability, experienced and skilled employees, market knowledge and environment agility. Leadership and clear vision have been given further priority. The next important is flexibility. The last and the least priority is given to receptive and strategic agility. This directional flow assists management in attaining adaptable sustainability, leading to continued growth in this dynamic environment.Research limitations/implicationsThe study focuses primarily on the agile readiness for sustainable operations of start-ups. This study offers a recommended list of crucial elements for start-ups, which may aid in creating guidelines for implementing agility for sustainable operations. This study provides academics with a TISM model that illustrates how start-ups can be ready to implement agility for sustainable operations. Future researchers could add more agility readiness variables to this study and validate this model across different start-ups.Practical implicationsBefore implementing agile readiness for sustainable operations in start-ups, this study will aid managers and practitioners in the start-up business in understanding the relationships of enablers and identifying important readiness enablers.Originality/valueThe current study analyzes the agile readiness for sustainable operations in Start-ups. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first endeavor to use the “TISM approach” to examine the interrelationships across agile readiness for sustainable operations characteristics in start-ups.

Analysing the Antecedents of Entrepreneurial Bootstrapping and Bricolage: A Modified Total Interpretive Structural Modelling and MICMAC Approach

This article seeks to systematically identify and model antecedents of entrepreneurial bootstrapping and bricolage to determine and interpret the relationships and hierarchy between them. Entrepreneurial bootstrapping and bricolage are key dynamic capabilities that help entrepreneurs access, accumulate and enhance resources to adapt to scarce business environments. The article employs a modified total interpretive structural modelling analysis to determine hierarchical inter-relationships between the antecedents and a Matrice d’ Impacts Croises Multiplication Applique An Classment analysis to understand their driving and dependence powers. The results highlight that founder characteristics and human capital are placed at the lower levels, making them critical driving elements of the model along with environmental hostility and resource constraints. Entrepreneurial orientation, slack, external financial capital and entrepreneurial frugality are dependent variables, with social capital as a linkage variable. This study will guide entrepreneurs trying to implement resourcefulness behaviours to respond to the coronavirus disease-2019 crisis by prioritising driving antecedents to impact the dependent factors further.

What influences wellness customers to engage in electronic word of mouth? A total interpretive structural modelling approach

ABSTRACT The present study aims to focus on the factors influencing the wellness customer to involve in electronic word of mouth and evaluate and measure the relationship between them. For this, the study followed three research phases: identification of factors through a review of literature, using expert opinion for selecting essential and relevant factors for the study, and applying a total interpretive structural modelling approach to reflect the appropriate association between different factors. A total of eleven factors, including the four that surfaced during the discussion with the experts, were service experience, gratitude, moral obligation, and trust. The other seven were altruism, hedonic value, self-enhancement, social affiliation, venting emotions, advice seeking, and economic incentive. These eleven factors were partitioned into four levels through the iteration process. The factors were categorised under independent, dependent, and linkage using MICMAC analysis. The results highlight a strong influence of economic incentives on wellness customers to engage in electronic word of mouth. The suggested model provides valuable insights to marketing practitioners and researchers that may assist them in designing campaigns around these factors in order to maximise the engagement of wellness customers through electronic word of mouth.