Administrative Sciences

This study aims to investigate the occurrence of conflicts in family businesses, particularly focusing on their impact on founder behavior and organizational culture. Conducted in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the research employs a qualitative methodology to gain an in-depth understanding of conflicts within family businesses. The study utilizes semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection tool, engaging with 5 founders and 12 successors across various family owned businesses. The sample, comprising 17 participants, offers diverse perspectives on conflict dynamics between founders and successors. The interviews, designed to explore recurring key themes, delve into the nature and characteristics of task and process-based disagreements within these family enterprises. Key findings from this study include the observation that task or process-based disagreements, commonly arising between family members, can act as catalysts for founders to re-evaluate their behavior, potentially influencing the shaping of the organizational culture. The research highlights the importance of fostering a culture of open communication, critical thinking, and respect within family firms. Such a culture can play a significant role in reducing relationship conflicts and aid in reaching constructive resolutions. Additionally, the study reveals that the features of organizational culture within family businesses can be instrumental in managing conflicts effectively. This research underscores the complexity of family relationships in business settings and emphasizes the necessity of examining these dynamics from multiple angles. Given the prevalence of family members in key positions within family firms, the study sheds light on the importance of addressing diversity and conflict among family members, considering their long-term implications on the culture and future of these firms. Full article

Applying a mixed theoretical approach, this paper addresses the causal relationship between the presence of women on steering committees (SC) and in senior management positions and the firm’s stock return, measured through the price–earnings ratio (P/E). To do so, we disaggregate the composition of the boards of 27 IBEX 35 companies over the period 2018–2021 by gender and type of female director and analyze the relationship between the number and proportion of women on the SC, their distribution by category, and the P/E. The sample contains a total of 108 observations, and its structure follows a panel data methodology. Validation of the working hypotheses was carried out using Poisson logistic regression. The results indicate a positive and significant relationship between stock returns and the percentage of women on the SC. The results also indicate that stock returns are not significantly affected by the category distribution of female directors. Full article

Brand experience, brand love, and brand behavior outcomes hold significant importance in management research. Their relevance extends to shaping strategic decision-making, fostering a customer-centric approach, and providing insights into the competitive landscape. These concepts are pivotal in understanding the complex dynamics of consumer-brand relationships, enabling organizations to make informed decisions, prioritize customer satisfaction, and stay competitive in the market. The present study aims to authenticate and assess the consistency of the Brand Experience (BE) scale and Brand Love (BL) scale in relation to the LIDL brand, comparing Portugal and the Czech Republic. Additionally, it delves into the connections between Brand Experience, Brand Love, and Brand Behaviour Outcomes (BBO): Positive Word of Mouth (+WOM), Brand Loyalty (BLYT), (Re)purchase Intention (RI), Affective Commitment (AC), Active Engagement (AE), and Perceptions of Attitudes Towards a Brand (PATB). The results demonstrated that the measurement tools used to gauge the variables under scrutiny are dependable and valid. Achieving measurement invariance across countries, convergence, and discriminant validity further validated the study. Positive correlations were identified among all the variables explored. The conceptual model tested exhibited a good fit and remained consistent across both countries. These findings hold significant implications for both academics and practitioners in the field of brand management. Full article

The study aims to enhance the sustainability of non-profit organizations by analyzing factors contributing to the adoption of digital marketing by non-profit organizations. For this purpose, this study presented a research model on digital marketing adoption reflecting the characteristics of non-profit organizations based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework. The research model was analyzed using structural equation modeling on a sample of 303 staff members of non-profit organizations in South Korea. The results of the study suggest that entrepreneurship, competitive pressures, digital environment change, compatibility, and lack of human resources have an effect on the adoption of digital marketing in non-profit organizations. The findings can contribute to helping non-profit organizations better engage in digital marketing activities and, therefore, strengthen their sustainability by being more efficient in obtaining the financial resources they need. Full article

In contemporary academia and industry, the commercialization of technology through licensing has emerged as a prevalent strategy. This paradigmatic shift has prompted numerous industrial firms to intensify their focus on technology commercialization as a mechanism to optimize the returns on their research and development investments, while concurrently leveraging their comprehensive technology portfolios. However, despite growing interest in this area, there exists a conspicuous gap in scholarly literature exploring how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can effectively and efficiently capitalize on this opportunity in a global context. The objective of the present study is to fill this void by offering an in-depth analysis of the key determinants that contribute to the successful commercialization of technology via licensing. Employing a qualitative research methodology, this paper presents a comparative case study that explores four separate international licensing alliances, each formed between the same licensor, specializing in solar mounting system engineering, and four different licensees, all engaged in the production and marketing of this specialized technology. Data were meticulously gathered through a triangulated approach that incorporated interviews with both licensor and licensees, extensive desk research, and on-site observations. Our empirical findings reveal that the critical success factors identified in existing literature are not uniformly significant. Specifically, four elements—relational dynamics, cultural considerations, human capital, and resource allocation—emerged as pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of technology commercialization strategies. By elucidating these nuanced factors, this study contributes to both academic discourse and practical applications, thereby serving as a valuable resource for SMEs aiming to navigate the complexities of technology commercialization in international settings. Full article

This study aimed to understand the impact of digital culture on companies’ knowledge and constant commitment to digital transformation, as well as its impact on organizations as a whole. Secondly, it aimed to explore the impact of digital technology adoption on organizational performance and competitiveness. Finally, the study investigated the role of knowledge management during digital transformation. A quantitative study was developed using a descriptive design. A questionnaire was developed on pre-test was carried out withon 15 participants and since no doubts or difficulties were detected, it was made available on the internet between January and April 2022. A total of 291 questionnaires were collected and validated. Data were imported from Google Forms for analysis in SPSS, version 25.0, andSmartPLS^® 4.0 software. The questionnaire revealed good internal consistency (α = 0.922). Ten of the twelve hypotheses were confirmed, that is, the existence of positive and significant relationships between digital culture (DC) and knowledge of digital transformation (KDT); DC and adoption of digital technologies (ADT); DC and knowledge management (KM); commitment (C) and KDT; C and productivity (P); KDT and ADT; ADT and KM; ADT and P; ADT and C; and P and C. The results of regression analyses showed that the variables that contributed to the model (“competitiveness of organizations”) were productivity, the adoption of digital technologies, commitment to digital technologies, and knowledge management. The variables CD and KDT (Knowledge of digital transformation) presented lower and non-significant values. Full article

Purpose: This paper seeks to explore the influence of workplace spirituality on employee behavior within organizational settings. Design: Systems thinking is used to explore various interrelated concepts of workplace spirituality (WPS). This study delves into the intricate interactions between WPS and its impact on employee behavior. By highlighting the significance of WPS, the research establishes a foundation for fostering innovation and creativity, facilitating meaningful connections among employees within organizations. Additionally, WPS plays a crucial role in reducing workplace incivility. Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) as part of a systems thinking approach are utilized to visually depict the complex interplay of variables and feedback loops within organizations, offering insights into polarities and presenting a long-term perspective on how spiritual initiatives affect the workplace. Results: The findings indicate that WPS assists employees in comprehending their roles, enhancing productivity, increasing motivation, and fostering job satisfaction. Furthermore, WPS contributes to improved employee engagement, satisfaction, and decision-making. Significance: The research underscores the explicit involvement of employees in achieving favorable outcomes and enhances our understanding of the perceptions held by employers and employees regarding their roles and engagement. The study suggests that enhancing employees’ performance is achievable in workplaces where individuals comprehend their roles and align them with the job objectives. Novelty: This paper is unique in two aspects. Firstly, it strives to integrate the fragmented and diverse literature on the outcomes of WPS using a systems thinking approach. Secondly, it raises awareness, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan, regarding the importance of incorporating organizational capabilities into organizational practices. Full article

Artificial Intelligence (AI) startups possess four key attributes; being small enterprises, adopting AI technology, undergoing digital transformation, and using big data systems to enhance their competitiveness. This study aims to identify the key influencing factors needed to enhance the competitiveness of AI technology-based startups and to suggest a decision-making model to improve the technology and business competitiveness of AI startups in the digital era. To achieve this, the hierarchy concept framework was built with four evaluation areas based on the mechanism-based view theory, and the 16 evaluation factors that can influence were identified through existing literature, combining factors related to the digital transformation, technological application, and business competitiveness of the startups. These factors were analyzed using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) by the survey, targeting experts in South Korea. The analysis results indicate that the subject area was the most crucial for the business competitiveness of AI startups. It was also revealed that the subject’s strategic mind is the most significant factor to AI startups’ success. In the case of two control groups, categorized as ‘AI experts’ and ‘startup experts’, AI experts chose the subject as the most important area, whereas startup experts selected the environment, and significant differences were observed in all other factors. The results of this study will provide implications for strengthening the business competitiveness of AI startups and factors important for the growth of AI startups in this era. Full article

To date, the studies on managerial loss aversion have produced contradictory findings, making it impossible to: (i) identify the ultimate impact of managerial loss aversion on the value that organisations create for themselves and for their stakeholders, and (ii) mitigate the effect of managerial loss aversion to improve corporate value creation. With the aim of filling this gap, the authors of this paper first performed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), resulting in 65 relevant papers. The 65 papers were then analysed through a Thematic Analysis (TA), which was aimed at isolating and revising the single effects of managerial loss aversion on the corporate value creation process. Once it became clear when and how managerial loss aversion leads to negative impacts on corporate value creation (such as suboptimal investments in corporate social responsibility, short-term-oriented budget expenditures, illegal corporate conduct in favourable contexts, and low demand for audit quality), a novel theoretical framework was built. This framework proposes some preliminary approaches to mitigate these detrimental effects. In particular, future empirical research may operationalise potential debiasing strategies, derived from critical analysis of the literature, to reduce managerial loss aversion in different business settings, thereby improving corporate value creation. Full article

This exploratory study examined recent innovations in online accountability practices adopted by Ukrainian nonprofits. A quantitative content analysis of Ukrainian nonprofit websites evaluated their adoption of online accountability practices across five dimensions: accessibility, engagement, performance, governance, and mission. The results reveal wide variability in accountability scores and low average disclosure of performance and governance practices. Nonprofits without a listed location have lower scores. International NGOs demonstrate stronger governance than domestic groups. Associations are leaders in online innovations. Overall, Ukrainian nonprofits are not fully capitalizing on digital platforms to enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement. This study provides unique insights into online accountability among Ukrainian nonprofits and highlights opportunities for nonprofits to leverage websites as strategic management tools for greater accountability, legitimacy, and impact. Full article

Background: Many scholars emphasize the way in which sustained organizational development requires a shift in focus from the individual traits of the entrepreneur to the building of an organization that utilizes the collective contributions of its employees. To achieve this, entrepreneurs must adopt the role of a facilitator and empower their employees to perform at their best. There are numerous factors that influence one’s decision to pursue a career in entrepreneurship, such as the beliefs and desires that individuals possess. Entrepreneurs possess diverse self-perceptions, and this plays a crucial role in their motivation to start a new business. Studies on entrepreneurial self-perception examine the elements, such as personal identity and capabilities—particularly the ability to effectively manage company drivers—which ultimately shape one’s decision to embark on a new venture. Launching a startup is not merely an act; rather, it represents a substantial reflection of an individual’s self-concept and identity. Consequently, an individual’s perceived social identity has a substantial influence on their choice to pursue entrepreneurship, as they view the venture as an extension of themselves. Methods: An online interactive learning environment (ILE) designed to assess the performance management capabilities of wanna-be entrepreneurs, in accordance with the formative assessment paradigm, has been developed. Results: The procedures for carrying out the formative (self-) assessment of wanna-be entrepreneurs’ performance management capabilities will be detailed. Two concrete assessment cases, with the aim of making clearer what kind of outcomes the ILE can generate, will be presented. Conclusions: The ILE could contribute in the encouragement of wanna-be entrepreneurs to participate in entrepreneurship educational programs. Full article

This study explores how a state-based franchisee association of a multinational quick-service restaurant franchisor introduced three world-first innovations through the activation of the five dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation (EO). The antecedents to this activation were also explored. A historical extended case study focusing on a revelatory case was undertaken. In-depth analysis using a rigorous qualitative methodology was facilitated by the triangulation of informant interviews, publicly available data, archival data, and artefacts. The three innovations explored involved the apparent activation of all five dimensions of EO by the franchisee association. The franchisee association’s structure and the provenance of its franchisee members, in being either externally recruited or internally recruited, appeared to have a bearing on whether product or process innovations were pursued. Five antecedents that enhance the propensity of franchisee associations to activate the dimensions of EO were also identified, and a preliminary model was constructed. Whilst the EO of franchisors and franchisees has previously been examined, this study is the first to explore franchisee associations as a vehicle for EO. With around 75% of franchisors incorporating some form of franchisee association, better understanding how to harness their innovative potential could bestow a competitive advantage upon those franchise systems able to do so. Full article

Entrepreneurship education research has a strong “output” focus on impact studies but pays much less attention to the “inside” or process perspective of the way entrepreneurship education occurs. In particular, the scattered previous entrepreneurship curriculum research has not managed to provide a current and comprehensive overview of the curricular elements that constitute entrepreneurship education. To overcome this shortcoming, we aim to identify the teaching objectives, teaching contents, teaching methods, and assessment methods discussed in entrepreneurship curriculum research. To this end, we conducted a systematic literature review on the four entrepreneurship curriculum dimensions and collected all mentioned curriculum items. We used a two-stage coding procedure to find the genuinely entrepreneurship-specific items. Among numerous items (also from business management and other subjects), we found 26 objectives, 34 contents, 11 teaching methods, and 7 assessment methods that were entrepreneurship-specific. Most of these items were addressed by only a few scholarly papers. Full article

This paper aims to explore how digitalization can be used as a risk mitigation tool against pandemic-induced demand shocks, when customer movements and activities are constrained by government regulations. Due to the disrupting events of the COVID-19 pandemic, we opted for an exploratory study to uncover the risk mitigation capabilities of digitalization under these circumstances, using a fast fashion case company as an empirical example. Several interviews were conducted with middle and top managers at the company. Our empirical insights about the risk mitigation capabilities of digitalization suggest that, as COVID-19-like events may become more frequent in the future, digital tools offering certain mitigations against physical constraints should be valued more highly than they have been previously. We encourage decision makers to look at the risk mitigation capabilities of digital solutions and include those into the cost–benefit discussion when thinking about new investments. In this way, our paper fills a pragmatic gap in this field, and is expected to help companies to identify the key success factors for the successful implementation of a digital transformation. Because of our chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Further company-wide, industry-wide, and country-wide extension of this research is possible. Full article

Considering the SECI model, which emphasizes a modern conception of knowledge management, the main objective of this study is to understand how the socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization (SECI) dimensions can influence innovative behavior within organizations. The quantitative method was adopted, carrying out a descriptive-correlational study in which 247 individuals participated. For data collection, a questionnaire was used. Their analysis was performed using SPSS software. The results show that of the four dimensions of the SECI model, only three have a positive influence on innovative behavior: externalization, combination, and internalization. This study highlights the importance that the SECI model has in understanding knowledge generated by companies/organizations, in particular, startups. It is possible to state that this model is extremely important to understand innovative behavior in startups, but also issues related to entrepreneurship, thus rendering this study into a guiding reference for companies. Full article

The airline market is constantly evolving and requires managers to adopt strategies to meet the changing demands and organizational requirements of the sector. As a result of its liberalization, the European market has transformed from a set of national protected sectors to a single sector. Although the market has grown over the last two decades, the industry has faced difficulties due to various economic, safety, environmental, and health issues, which have recently emerged. This study analyzes the airlines’ strategic responses to increased competition from the turn of the century to 2019, excluding the pandemic period, to focus on market dynamics driven by European competition policy. A five-pillar strategic framework highlighting common strategies and divergences between major European network carriers is outlined through a multi-case analysis of major European markets. The sample includes France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Results have managerial implications that highlight the importance of strategic adaptability in an industry landscape that continues to evolve. Managerial implications fall into the following three categories: strategic positioning, cost optimization, and business diversification. Full article

In the contemporary business environment, startups have emerged as significant employment contributors, particularly in mature startup ecosystems, such as the United States. However, Europe, with a particular focus on Slovenia, represents an unexplored avenue in this area. As startups make the transition to scaleups, they face numerous challenges. Our study aims to comprehend the dynamics that affect startups during this crucial phase, focusing on the relationship between entrepreneurial motivations, the startup ecosystem, and their strategic adaptability. We undertook a primary survey among Slovenian startup and scaleup companies, and we utilized factor and regression analysis as the primary tools for conducting a thorough data analysis. The research underscores the symbiotic relationship between tailored business strategies, innovation, and growth challenges. To achieve successful transition from startup to scaleup, it is a strategic necessity for businesses to harness their innovative capacities. Our research pioneers the inclusion of Slovenia within the European startup landscape, providing insight into the unique challenges and opportunities inherent to the region. The findings advocate for a holistic approach in the startup ecosystem, reinforcing the significance of a multifaceted support system for these budding enterprises. Full article

This theoretical scientific study explores using a working time recording system as a digital management tool in public administration. It explains why such a system is necessary in public administration and lays out the report’s goals. The main goal is to identify the possibilities of using modern technology, such as the system of recording the working time of public administration employees, to improve its efficiency and pro-client orientation. Recording the working time management ensures that most government and public administration duties are organised and arranged promptly for easier retrieval and allocation of tasks to different departments. A thorough assessment of the literature also looks at the current studies on working time tracking systems, particularly in the context of public administration and their possible effects on effectiveness, accountability, and transparency. Employee privacy-related legal and moral issues are also covered. The Materials and Methods section describes the system’s implementation in detail, covering system selection, employee training, data collection methods, and technological considerations. As a result, the use of time recording systems in public administration has been found to have various benefits, including better work–life balance, fairness and transparency. These solutions improve accountability and trust by streamlining workforce management and ensuring compliance with labour laws. The main result of our research is the design of a theoretical model applicable in public administration for monitoring an employee’s working time. Full article

The object of the study is to examine conflicts that occur in hotel companies, how they affect their structure, the quality of the work environment, the well-being of their workers, and their perception of the management of labor relations and conflict. For any company that wants to orient its efforts towards the fulfillment of the SDGs established in the 2030 Agenda, in this case, SDG 8 on decent work for all, it is key to understand which variables have the greatest influence on the management of labor relations and conflict. The aim is to identify those areas where they should focus their efforts to avoid organizational malaise that leads to economic and emotional costs derived from lower productivity and increased absenteeism, thus affecting their competitiveness. Information was collected to validate the objectives using a questionnaire with 57 items completed by workers with at least 5 years of experience in the sector. Using a simple linear regression, 10 key variables have been identified to explain the global satisfaction of employees, such as treatment, respect for company values, and the existence of defined processes and responsibilities. Full article