Transparent Communication Research Articles

Impact of COVID-19 measures on psychosocial outcomes in Austria – a qualitative vignette study

Abstract During the COVID-19 pandemic, Austria implemented frequent and restrictive containment measures. We aimed to explore the perspectives of individuals affected by political and epidemiological decisions in Austria, particularly in Vienna and Lower Austria. A qualitative vignette-based study conducted from July to Oct 2023 utilized two hypothetical future pandemic scenarios to prompt in-depth discussions in semi-structured interviews with Austrian residents about their perspectives, either private or from the fields of healthcare, education, citizen representation, business, research, public health and politics. Interview data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach. To ensure results’ rigor and accuracy, we followed the COREQ guideline and included two citizen research partners. This project is funded by WWTF (Grant ID: LS22071). Preliminary thematic analysis from 28 interviewees (53.6% female) aged 19-77 (mean 53.0 years) shows that the negative effects of school closures was a major concern among participants. Despite diverging points of view on other topics, there was a broad consensus that school closures would have negative consequences, such as unstable educational modalities impairing young people’s individual development, decreasing psychosocial support in their peer groups, leading to long-term educational losses, not only for individuals but also for society as a whole, and having a negative impact on economic growth, social justice and innovation. The participants also described a lack of evidence for the necessity of the frequent school closures during the pandemic as had happened in Austria and suggested a different approach in a future pandemic. Further topics were the deterioration of mental health, incentives instead of mandatory measures, more transparent communication by authorities, agreement between experts and researchers, reducing uncertainties regarding pandemic management, compliance by the general public and democratic social cohesion. Key messages • Addressing the multi-faceted impact of a pandemic requires a comprehensive approach that considers mental health, social justice, communication and social cohesion alongside containment measures. • This work represents a learning from the COVID-19 pandemic. From the conclusions of this study, recommendations can be derived to be better equipped in future pandemics.

Organizational well-being in a healthcare facility in Tuscany

Abstract Introduction Organizational climate assessment provides crucial insights into work life across sectors. While corporate culture evolves gradually, the organizational climate promptly reflects employees’ mood, motivation, enthusiasm, and perception of the work environment. This study aims to analyze the organizational well-being in a healthcare facility in southeast Tuscany to reveal both successful areas and critical issues within the organization. Methods Data on gender, age, tenure, qualification, and contract type were collected anonymously. Organizational climate was assessed using a Likert scale (1-10), covering workplace safety, stress, fairness, discrimination, career development, relationships, belonging, and other perceptions. STATA was used to conduct this analysis. Results Twenty-nine participants included 55.3% male, averaging 45.3 years. Thirty-one percent had less than 5 years of tenure, with only 14% in managerial roles. Workplace safety perception varied: 58% moderately safe, 20% unsafe, and 20% highly insecure. Bullying was reported by 14.3%, while 17.6% found compensation fully appropriate. Merit and career opportunities were unrelated for 65.5%, and 48.2% found their role aligned with their profile. Fifty-five percent felt part of a team, and 27.5% perceived good integration. Company rules were clear for 93%, but 34.5% considered changing companies, while 55.1% were satisfied. External user perception was positive at 58.5%. Conclusions The analysis identified positive aspects and areas for improvement in workplace well-being. Safety and fairness in job allocation were well-received, with room for improvement, mostly in promotion transparency. Colleague relationships were positive, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication and employee engagement in building trust and participation. These findings can guide the development of targeted interventions to enhance organizational well-being, fostering employee satisfaction and efficiency. Key messages • The evaluation of organizational climate in this healthcare facility revealed a variety of employee perceptions, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement in workplace well-being. • Enhancing transparency and communication regarding merit-based promotions within the organization is necessary to foster employee trust and engagement.

Solving Wage Information Asymmetry: The Perspective of the European Union and Lithuania

The search for criteria and mechanisms for resolving the pay gap between men and women is one of the main directions of the equality policy of the European Union. More than half a century after the establishment of the principle of the right to equal pay for the same work or work of equal value, it became apparent that the pay gap between men’s and women’s wages remains unsealed. One reason is the wage information asymmetry between the employee and employer. This asymmetry was corrected in the Pay Transparency Directive of the European Union. The author examines the measures for adjusting information asymmetry on wages provided for in the directive. They are divided into three groups – the measures ensuring pay process transparency, the measures ensuring pay communication transparency, and the measures ensuring pay outcome transparency. Subsequently, obstacles and opportunities for the transfer of these measures to the Lithuanian legal system are discussed.

Valuing the Creator: The Impact of Author Compensation Cues on Perceived Price Fairness and Purchase Intentions

This study examines consumer perceptions of revenue distribution among authors, publishers, and retailers for physical and digital book formats, along with perceived price fairness and purchase intentions. Study1 reveals that consumers attribute higher revenue to authors and less to publishers for digital books (compared to physical ones). Higher attribution is associated with perceived outcome price fairness for digital books. However, physical books still command a higher willingness to pay and willingness to buy. Study 2 demonstrates that explicit cues about high author compensation significantly increase purchase likelihood and WTP for digital books but do not significantly affect perceived price fairness. Consumers with higher authorial remuneration concerns and those who perceive higher value in digital books are more influenced by these cues. These findings suggest that transparent communication about author compensation could effectively enhance purchase intentions for digital books, especially among digital reading enthusiasts.

Addressing integration in the organization of palliative care in belgium: a multilevel ecosystems approach using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method

BackgroundPalliative care is becoming an essential component of healthcare, but there is insufficient research on how integration across different levels of care (micro, meso, and macro) is realized in practice. Without such integration, care may become fragmented, leading to suboptimal patient outcomes. While many studies have explored palliative care models, there is a gap in understanding how priorities for integrated care align across these levels within healthcare ecosystems. Specifically, it is unclear whether key actions at each level are shared, coordinated, and supported effectively, making it difficult to implement sustainable, cohesive care strategies. Our study aims to explore the extent to which important goals (i.e., priorities) are shared across the micro, meso, and macro levels of the palliative care ecosystem in Flanders, Belgium.MethodsWe applied a multimethod study using the analytic hierarchy process method (AHP). This consists of three sequential steps: a broad literature search and interviews with Belgian stakeholders (n = 12) to determine the criteria for the organization of integrated care; focus groups (n = 8) with patients, their relatives and caregivers to establish the completeness and relevance of the criteria; and prioritization of the criteria using a questionnaire among 305 Flemish participants (patients, relatives, caregivers and policy makers).ResultsOur findings revealed that integration is imbalanced, with priorities being most emphasized at the micro level (57%), followed by the meso (29%) and macro (14%) level. Functional enablers dominate at the macro (80%) and meso organizational level (67%), while normative enablers are emphasized at the meso professional (67%) and micro level (75%). Effective palliative care requires vertical coordination of these enablers: for instance, transparent communication with patients at the micro level depends on cross-organizational information exchange at the meso level, supported by a unified data system at the macro level.ConclusionAchieving integrated palliative care requires deliberate alignment of priorities across all levels of the ecosystem. While each level plays a unique role, palliative care is comprehensive and effective only by sharing both functional and normative enablers across micro, meso, and macro level.

Dignified Branding: Upholding Authenticity and Integrity in Product Representation

Dignified branding is a concept that emphasizes authenticity, respect for a product's inherent qualities, and transparent communication with consumers. This research paper explores the principles of dignified branding, contrasting it with fake branding practices characterized by deceit and exaggeration. By analyzing the implications of each approach, this study highlights the importance of maintaining integrity in brand representation. It posits that dignified branding fosters trust, loyalty, and sustainable growth, while fake branding undermines consumer confidence and damages brand reputation. The paper concludes that organizations should prioritize dignified branding to create meaningful connections with consumers and uphold their brand's dignity.

Building Emotional Connections Through Marketing Strategies: A Case Study of Lululemon

Abstract: This paper examines how Lululemon, a premium athletic apparel company, leverages its marketing strategies to establish emotional connections with consumers. By analyzing Lululemon's community engagement, ambassador program, storytelling, product quality, transparent communication, and social responsibility initiatives, this study uncovers how these strategies collectively enhance brand loyalty and market influence. Utilizing qualitative analysis and case study methods, this paper provides a comprehensive understanding of Lululemon's successful marketing strategies. This study employs a qualitative research approach, utilizing case study methodology to analyze Lululemon's marketing strategies. Data were collected through an analysis of Lululemon's official website, social media activities, public marketing materials, and industry reports.

Beyond the school: principals’ insights on expanded roles in times of crisis. The case of COVID-19 in Turkey

ABSTRACT This study examined the perspectives of school principals on the workload of the additional administrative responsibilities they were assigned during COVID-19 in Turkey. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the nature of these additional responsibilities and to assess their impact on the principals who took them on. The research group consisted of 62 school administrators (principals and vice principals), from public elementary schools. The research data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis. The results showed that principals were assigned tasks without regard to their specific roles, with no differentiation based on their positions. The study also revealed a variety of emotional experiences among the participants, ranging from fear and anxiety to feelings of satisfaction and commitment. Overall, this study provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics of principals’ experiences during COVID-19 and highlighted the need for transparent communication, equitable task allocation, and adequate support mechanisms to maintain their well-being and commitment.

Exploring Leadership Excellence and Accountability in Organisational Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis in Nigeria

This study explores the relationship between leadership excellence and accountability within organisations in Plateau State, Nigeria, and their combined impact on organisational culture and success. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis. Quantitative data were gathered through a structured questionnaire, revealing moderately positive perceptions of leadership practices, with a particular emphasis on fostering continuous learning and responsibility among leaders. Qualitative data, obtained through thematic analysis of open-ended responses, highlight effective leadership practices such as transparent communication and collaboration, as well as challenges in implementing accountability measures, including resistance to change and resource limitations. The Integration of quantitative and qualitative findings underscores the significant influence of leadership on accountability and, consequently, on organisational culture. The study also addresses social desirability bias by assuring participants of their anonymity and encouraging honest feedback. The findings contribute to academic discourse by providing localized Insights into leadership and accountability within the specific context of Plateau State, Nigeria. Practical recommendations include investing in leadership development programs, enhancing clarity in accountability measures, promoting continuous learning, addressing communication gaps, and prioritizing employee engagement. This research offers a roadmap for organisational leaders aiming to foster a culture of accountable leadership and drive organisational success in dynamic business environments.

Impact of the EduIntegrity Suite on Academic Integrity: A Qualitative Study

The EduIntegrity Suite, a collection of tools designed to promote academic integrity, has garnered significant interest within educational institutions. This study explores the Suite's perceived effectiveness and its influence on various stakeholders through a mixed-methods approach. Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with students, educators, and administrators at institutions utilizing the Suite. Student discussions explored their perceptions of the Suite's impact on their learning environment and potential concerns. Educators discussed how the Suite influenced their teaching practices and addressed suspected misconduct. Administrator focus groups provided insights into the decision-making process for implementing the Suite, its effectiveness, and its broader cultural influence. An online component complemented the focus groups, involving a comprehensive review of documents and websites related to the Suite. Company websites and product information for the Suite's individual tools were examined. Academic resources discussing the Suite's functionalities and potential applications were reviewed. News articles and blog posts offering insights from educators, administrators, and students regarding their experiences were explored. The findings highlight the Suite's multifaceted functionalities, including plagiarism detection, grammar and citation checking, originality reports, and remote proctoring services. While students acknowledged the Suite's potential deterrent effect, concerns about workarounds and a shift in focus from learning to detecting cheaters were also voiced. Administrators, however, emphasized the Suite's potential as a tool for promoting a culture of academic integrity, not just detecting plagiarism. Transparency and clear communication emerged as crucial for fostering trust and student acceptance. The EduIntegrity Suite appears to offer a promising approach to academic integrity when implemented strategically and combined with effective pedagogical practices. However, the success hinges on a multi-pronged approach that addresses student concerns, utilizes the Suite's functionalities effectively, and fosters a culture of ethical learning within the institution. To achieve this, institutions can prioritize clear communication about the Suite's purpose and limitations, support and develop staff with the Suites functionality and ethical consideration. Moreover, encourage educational initiatives that promote critical thinking, responsible research practices, and proper citation skills. Collaboration between educators and administrators can leverage the Suite's capabilities to create a more supportive and ethically sound learning environment.

Incorporating client perspectives: moving towards digital outcome measurement in pediatric speech-language pathology

ABSTRACT Caregivers’ needs and preferences regarding outcome measurement in pediatric speech-language pathology are not well-understood, but are critical to the development and implementation of meaningful clinical tools. This project engaged caregivers of preschoolers with speech, language and communication needs to understand their views on the potential for, and their preferences surrounding a digital version of one participation-focused outcome measure called the Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (FOCUS-34). Fifteen caregivers of preschoolers who were receiving services in a large health system participated in one of four 30–60-minute virtual focus groups or one of three individual interviews. Caregivers shared their perceptions of whether and how a digital FOCUS-34 may improve their service experience, and their preferred features and formats to make it useful. An inductive content analysis was used to identify relevant categories that described caregivers’ perspectives. Data were sorted into two categories: (1) caregivers believe a digital solution would improve their service experience, and (2) caregivers want a user-friendly digital FOCUS-34 to measure and give feedback on intervention outcomes. Multiple sub-categories were also identified, which further described caregivers’ views on how a digital measure would improve the feasibility of outcome measurement, family engagement in services, and transparent communication with providers. Sub-categories also outlined caregivers’ preferences for the features and functions of a digital measure and their suggested considerations for developers of the digital tool. Results provide new insight into caregivers’ perspectives on digital outcome measurement and will inform efforts to improve the utility of the FOCUS-34 for families.

Assessing innovative and responsive young leaders in public service: Lens from community clientele

Youth leadership brings new perspectives, innovative ideas, and a dynamic approach to addressing contemporary issues. Young leaders often possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by their generation, enabling them to develop solutions that are relevant and impactful. Their involvement in public service fosters a sense of responsibility and civic engagement, encouraging a culture of active participation and community building. This study examined the innovative and responsive characteristics of young leaders in the Philippines. This exploratory paper expected to provide understanding on how community clientele like community residents, elderly people, persons with disability, perceived innovative and responsive traits of community youth leaders. Convenience sampling (n=12) was carried out to select the participants seeking assistance from barangays leaders. Findings indicated that the community clienteles described these young leaders as possessing creative minds capable of ‘thinking outside the box’ to address evolving challenges and meet community needs. Youth leaders were noted for their commitment to effective communication, gathering feedback, and working collaboratively with the community to resolve issues. They are accessible and approachable, demonstrating empathy and attentiveness to the concerns of those they serve. The perception of community clientele emphasized how young leaders integrate creative and innovative approaches to problem-solving with proactive and empathetic engagement to the community, and their commitment to transparency and effective communication. These qualities collectively contribute to the community's positive view of youth leadership, recognizing the potential of young leaders to bring about meaningful and lasting change.

Effect of Sustainable Fabric Sourcing on Fashion Brand Reputation in Sweden

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of sustainable fabric sourcing on fashion brand reputation in Sweden Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Sustainable fabric sourcing has a positive impact on the reputation of fashion brands in Sweden. Brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical supply chains are increasingly seen as socially responsible, gaining consumer trust and loyalty. This shift reflects growing environmental awareness among Swedish consumers, who value transparency and sustainability in the fashion industry. As a result, brands that adopt sustainable practices often experience enhanced brand image, stronger customer relationships, and increased competitiveness in the market. However, the challenge lies in ensuring consistent implementation of these practices, as consumers are quick to criticize brands for "greenwashing" or failing to meet sustainability standards. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Stakeholder theory, theory of planned behavior & resource-based view (RBV) may be used to anchor future studies on the effect of sustainable fabric sourcing on fashion brand reputation in Sweden. Brands should implement transparent communication strategies that detail their sustainable fabric sourcing practices. Policymakers should create supportive frameworks that incentivize sustainable sourcing practices in the fashion industry.

Analysis Of Political Communication Ahead Of The 2024 Presidential Election Case Studies On Political Campaigns, Political Propaganda, Public Opinion, Marketing, Political Advertising, And Political Negotiation

The 2024 presidential election is an important moment in the political life of a country. This study aims to analyze the role of various aspects of political communsication in the presidential election, including political campaigns, political propaganda, public opinion, political marketing and advertising, and political negotiations. The research methodology uses a holistic approach with quantitative and qualitative data collection through online surveys, interviews, and media content analysis. Key findings highlight the significance of social media in shaping public opinion and the political communication strategies used by candidates. Practical implications of these findings include recommendations for more effective political campaign strategies and the development of more transparent communication policies.

How to address the barriers to meaningful adolescent involvement in health research: A qualitative study.

The under-involvement of adolescents in health research has been attributed to multiple barriers faced by both researchers and adolescents. Despite identifying these barriers, the literature offers few solutions, mostly from the perspective of researchers. To address this, we conducted a qualitative study to explore effective strategies to address these barriers from the perspective of both researchers and adolescents. We conducted semi-structured interviews with adolescents (n = 25) and researchers (n = 25) from 14 countries. We included adolescents aged 10-24 years with experience of contributing to health research studies and health researchers with experience of engaging adolescents in health research. The interviews explored the mitigation strategies to commonly reported barriers to meaningful adolescent involvement for researchers and adolescents. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. We identified three overarching strategies to address the commonly experienced barriers to adolescent involvement. First, participants suggested the need to plan for adequate resources, organizational support, capacity building, accessibility, compensation, and adolescents' safety. Second, they recommended building relationships by engaging the community, fostering trust and respect with adolescents, promoting teamwork, and maintaining transparent communication. Third, they proposed making involvement engaging for adolescents by creating a conducive environment, increasing their representation, using interesting methods, and addressing power dynamics. These findings build on the current best practices for adolescent involvement in health research by highlighting which strategies should be incorporated early on to plan for and prevent potential challenges to adolescent involvement.

Communicative Democracy and Voter Choice: Evidence From a Conjoint Analysis in Taiwan

While prior scholarship has dedicated substantial attention to theoretically discussing communicative democracy, there has been a notable dearth of empirical research examining its political implications. This study endeavors to bridge this gap by exploring the impact of prioritizing communicative democracy in policy-making on electoral support. Through a conjoint experiment conducted in Taiwan, this study finds that candidates who emphasize communicative democracy, characterized by transparent communication, active engagement, and meaningful dialogue, are more likely to be chosen by voters over those who focus on majority rule. This preference highlights a broader desire for inclusivity and policies reflecting diverse viewpoints. As the first empirical investigation, the findings contribute to our understanding of voter values around communication and inclusivity in democracy, indicating a shift toward valuing collaborative policy development.

The Effect of Job Insecurity on Women’s Mental Health

Job insecurity on women’s mental health is a growing concern in these days in labour market, where economic instability. Women often experience heightened jobs insecurity due to factors like gender discrimination, caregiving responsibilities and the prevalence of part time or temporary positions. This insecurity can lead to significant psychological distress, manifesting as anxiety, depression and diminished self- esteem. The objective is to examine how job insecurity influences mental health outcomes in women, to identify the specific factors contributing to job insecurity for women. The study is based on secondary data such as books, journals, newspaper, government reports and internet etc. The main finding of the study is to increase psychological distress, organizational role to support for reduce negativity, stress and insecurity in women workplace and enhance their capability in workplace. The study suggests that increased job securities, fair wages and transparent communication regarding job expectations and security. The government should take steps for them maintain mantle health, supporting program, including counseling services and stress management workshops. They should equal rights to women in workplace to maintain women’s mental health.

The Role of Workplace Communication on Employees’ Performance in Tanzania: A Case of Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO)

Effective workplace communication is pivotal in enhancing employee performance, particularly in today's global business environment characterized by diversity and remote work dynamics. This study aimed to examine the role of workplace communication on employee performance within Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO), focusing on how communication influences job correctness, decision-making, planning, and overall employee productivity. The study utilized a descriptive research design to collect data. A total of 36 participants were sampled using simple random. Data were gathered through questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS for quantitative data insights. The findings indicate a significant correlation between effective communication and enhanced employee performance. Specifically, open communication with supervisors was strongly linked to increased job correctness and performance (mean = 4.81). Communication was also found to facilitate decision-making and planning (mean = 3.53), and there was a recognized relationship between effective communication and overall employee performance (mean = 3.97). However, the traditional top-down communication approach was noted, with a mean score of 3.65, suggesting areas for improvement in adopting more inclusive communication practices. The study confirms the critical role of effective workplace communication in enhancing employee performance at TANESCO. Open and transparent communication, particularly with supervisors, significantly contributes to job accuracy and employee productivity. The study recommends that TANESCO implements structured programs to foster open dialogue, develops comprehensive communication strategies that balance hierarchical and inclusive approaches, and invests in regular training and assessment of communication practices. Additionally, adopting an 'open door' policy and engaging in active listening are suggested to enhance the communication framework within the organization.

Advance Consent for Participation in Acute Stroke Trials: A Focus Group Study with People with Lived Experience of Stroke.

Advance consent could address many of the limitations traditional consenting methods pose to participation in acute stroke trials. We conducted a series of five focus groups with people with lived experience of stroke. Using an inductive thematic approach, two themes were developed: factors in favour of, and against, advance consent. Participants supported the idea of advance consent and highlighted trust, transparent communication and sufficient time as major factors that would positively affect their decision to provide advance consent. The results will be used to finalise a model of advance consent suitable for testing the feasibility in stroke prevention clinics.

Addressing student non-compliance in AI use declarations: implications for academic integrity and assessment in higher education

This study examines the factors driving student non-compliance with AI use declarations in academic assessments at King’s Business School, where 74% of students failed to declare AI usage despite declaration being a requirement of a mandatory coursework coversheet. Utilising the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as a framework, the research combines service evaluation survey data and semi-structured interviews to explore how attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control influence compliance. Findings reveal that fear of academic repercussions, ambiguous guidelines, inconsistent enforcement, and peer influence are key barriers to AI use declaration. These factors complicate the declaration process, undermine transparency, and challenge academic integrity. The study extends the TPB model by highlighting the ethical and practical dilemmas posed by generative AI, which blur traditional norms of academic integrity. This research offers critical insights for policymakers, suggesting that clear, consistent, and trust-based policies are crucial in fostering ethical AI use. The findings underscore the importance of transparent communication and supportive institutional cultures to improve compliance. Ultimately, this study informs policy development by evaluating the effectiveness of declaration mechanisms and providing actionable recommendations to promote a culture of academic integrity in the evolving landscape of AI technologies.