Management Dynamics in the Knowledge Economy (E-Journal)
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The Impact of Peace Marketing on Customer Well-Being: Insights from Zain Iraq Telecommunications
Full text linkThis research seeks to shed light on peace marketing practices and analyse their impact on customer well-being. Peace marketing is one of the important marketing topics that has a major humanitarian role in making the world a better place to live, free from wars and violence. This research aims to test the level of impact of peace marketing practices and its dimensions of social development, transparency, and customer rights in achieving customer welfare, and to explore how marketing initiatives that focus on peace can encourage companies to contribute to spreading peace and security in the world and achieving prosperity, stability, balance, and protection for society. A random sample of (472) Zain Iraq Telecommunications Company customers was selected and reached through an electronic questionnaire published on social media sites. This research adopted the descriptive analytical approach in data analysis, using Smart PLS4 structural equation modeling for path analysis. The study concluded that peace marketing practices have a significant impact on achieving customer well-being, as peace marketing practices contribute significantly to improving customer well-being. Customers who are exposed to marketing messages and activities that focus on peace feel greater psychological comfort and reassurance when interacting with the brand. Peace marketing practices also contribute to strengthening social ties between customers and society, and marketing initiatives that encourage cooperation and peace help build a cohesive and supportive community, which enhances customers' sense of belonging and communication and improves social well-being. The results also showed a significant impact of economic development on customer well-being. If economic development is achieved, the standard of living will rise, and welfare and prosperity will be generated
Adapting to Thrive: Operation Management Capabilities and Flexibility Effects on Procurement Performance among Manufacturing Firms in Ghana
Full text linkThis study examined the direct and moderating relationships between operational management capabilities, specifically process efficiency capability, process integration capability, operational flexibility and procurement performance among manufacturing firms in Ghana. The study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. A total of three hundred and fifty (350) procurement officials from fifty (50) manufacturing firms were selected for the study. Stratified and purposive sampling techniques were used in the selection of manufacturing firms and procurement officials, respectively. Questionnaires were used in the data collection, and data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). For direct effects, the study showed that a non-significant positive relationship exists between process integration capability and procurement performance. However, a significant positive relationship was found to exist between process efficiency capability and procurement performance. The study also found that operational flexibility does not moderate the relationship between process integration capability and procurement performance. Meanwhile, operational flexibility negatively moderates the relationship between process efficiency capability and procurement performance among manufacturing firms in Ghana. The results of the study highlight the importance of developing robust process efficiency capabilities for improved procurement outcomes, while also suggesting a careful balance in operational flexibility initiatives to avoid inefficiencies among manufacturing firms. The study contributes to the dynamic capabilities theory and provides practical implications for manufacturing firms seeking to optimize their procurement strategies
A Structural Model of the Effect of Decent Work, Job Satisfaction and Organizational Commitment on Employee Creativity
Full text linkThe primary objective of this research is to study the relationship between decent work, job satisfaction, organizational commitment and employee creativity. A sample size of 109 participants was conveniently sampled from major retailers in Bulawayo Urban. To achieve the purposes of this study and test the hypotheses, the structural equation model (SEM) was employed. Results revealed that decent work has a significant positive relationship with job satisfaction and organizational commitment. This means a decent work environment is responsible for highly satisfied workers who, in turn, become committed to the organization. A relatively strong association between organizational commitment and employee creativity was established. A committed workforce is bound to display creative work behaviors. However, an insignificant relationship between job satisfaction and employee creativity was found. If one is satisfied with their job, it does not translate to being creative at work. The study also established that a decent work environment does not predict employee creativity. These results have revealed the role and importance of securing decent work as a significant job resource in the retail sector. Employee creativity has also been shown to be a complex subject that requires further research on how it can be enhanced in the retail sector. The findings hope to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of decent work on job satisfaction, organizational commitment and employee creativity, and how all these relate to one another in contributing to a viable business economy in the retail sector
From Idea to Impact: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Transformation of Business Models
Full text linkArtificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a significant driver of transformation in the business environment, particularly for startups, which are characterized by high levels of adaptability, innovation orientation and strategic flexibility. Startups that incorporate artificial intelligence into their structures and processes are reshaping traditional approaches to value creation. This study aims to explore how artificial intelligence influences the formation and evolution of business models in startups across different industries. The analysis draws on academic literature, case study evidence and current market observations in order to identify key areas where artificial intelligence may affect fundamental business model components. The comparative part of the study focuses on differences between AI-driven startups and traditional companies that did not emerge as startups and do not rely on artificial intelligence as a core strategic technology. The comparison is carried out within three selected industries, namely banking, automotive manufacturing and retail. The study applies the Business Model Canvas (BCM) as a conceptual tool to evaluate the configuration of business models in both categories of companies. The results of the analysis indicate that startups using artificial intelligence are creating new types of business models in which AI plays a significant role in shaping the value proposition, sales channels, and revenue streams. Traditional companies, on the other hand, are not transforming their business models radically but are integrating artificial intelligence mainly in support areas. Building on these findings, this research contributes to the broader understanding of business model innovation under the influence of artificial intelligence and outlines the analytical foundations for identifying structural distinctions between AI-driven startups and traditional companies
Adhocracy Culture as a Driver of Triple Bottom Line Sustainability: Mediating Role of Corporate Governance
No full textThis study examined the impact of adhocracy culture on the economic, environmental, and social sustainability performance of African Civil Aviation Authorities (ACAAs), with corporate governance as a potential mediator, framed within the Triple Bottom Line sustainability paradigm. Employing quantitative, explanatory research design, data were collected from 371 managers across 54 ACAAs using a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that adhocracy culture significantly and positively influenced all three sustainability dimensions. Corporate governance mediated the relationships between adhocracy culture and environmental and social sustainability but not economic sustainability. The study concludes that while an innovative and flexible culture directly enhances economic outcomes, robust governance structures are essential to translating cultural dynamism into measurable environmental and social gains. Recommendations include fostering adhocracy culture, strengthening governance mechanisms, integrating sustainability into strategy, building leadership capacity, and establishing robust monitoring systems. These findings contribute to the literature by clarifying the interplay between culture, governance, and sustainability in aviation
An Inside-out Model of Retail SME Brand Orientation for an Emerging Market
Full text linkBrand orientation is a management philosophy that places the brand at the centre of management decision-making and is critical for developing strong, competitive brands. This study aimed to identify the internal elements/drivers necessary for brand orientation development in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Using a novel, multidimensional approach to brand orientation, this study contributes towards understanding SME brand orientation in emerging markets. Building on the literature on brand orientation, brand development and SME branding, the study sought to identify the dimensions and constituents of brand orientation of SMEs in emerging economies from the perspective of owners/managers. This quantitative study relied on data obtained from a questionnaire administered to 265 owners/managers of SMEs in Tshwane, South Africa. Building on insights gained through partial least squares path modelling (PLS-SEM), the findings revealed that brand development is a significant dimension of brand orientation while brand resources, brand characteristics, brand perception and perceived advantage are not. The most transformative insight from the study was that for SMEs, brand resources are not positively related to brand orientation, hence, an SME with resource constraints can also be brand oriented. Furthermore, the findings showed that some of the proposed brand orientation dimensions are positively related to one another, indicating the need for a multi-dimensional approach to the brand-building process. From a practical standpoint, the study suggests that given how resource constraints do not hinder brand orientation, SMEs should prioritise resource-independent brand orientation by leveraging intangible assets such as their expertise, networks and commitment to quality
Waste Management Research in Sri Lanka: Exploring Trends, Identifying Gaps, and Gaining Key Insights Through Bibliometric Analysis
Full text linkWaste generation has emerged as a critical global challenge, driven by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and evolving consumption patterns with insatiable needs and a shift away from minimalization. In 2023, cities worldwide generated 2.3 billion tonnes of solid waste annually, whereas Sri Lanka accounts for millions of tonnes annually. Continued waste generation is expected to increase from 2.3 billion to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050. Despite the global emphasis on advanced waste management practices such as recycling, composting, and circular economy models, there is a notable lack of systematic understanding of the research landscape in developing nations like Sri Lanka. This absence creates a critical gap in identifying the evolution, key contributors, and dominant themes in the country's waste management area. To bridge this gap, bibliometric analyses offer a structured way to explore trends and identify key contributors in the field. This study aims to present a comprehensive bibliometric review of waste management research conducted in Sri Lanka, providing insights into its evolution, dominant themes, and emerging research directions. Using 235 research articles published between 1990 and 2023 and data extracted from the OpenAlex database, the analysis was conducted with Biblioshiny software to examine publication trends, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. Key findings are summarized into five main points. First, research output has steadily increased since 2010, with a remarkable growth peak around 2020, reflecting growing scholarly interest. Second, the University of Moratuwa emerges as a dominant contributor, alongside international collaborations with institutions from countries like the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Third, thematic analysis reveals that sustainability practices, waste-to-energy conversion, and recycling are dominant themes. At the same time, policy development, public participation, and electronic waste management are identified as emerging research areas. Fourth, bibliometric data emphasizes the role of influential journals like Waste Management and Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management in shaping the field. Finally, keyword analysis highlights interconnected themes such as environmental monitoring, public health concerns, and the socio-economic aspects of waste management. This bibliometric review, focused on Sri Lanka, provides a foundation for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to identify critical gaps and advocate for the integration of innovative technologies and cross-disciplinary strategies that advance sustainable waste management practices and policy development
Opportunity Constructs in Innovation Hubs for Start-up Development in India
Full text linkThis research aims to identify and evaluate the key factors and strategic opportunities within innovation hubs that facilitate the growth, sustainability, and technological advancement of start-ups in India, with a particular focus on promoting digital transformation, eco-innovation, and inclusive entrepreneurship. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected through a Google Forms survey distributed via email and social media to start up founders, entrepreneurs, investors, financial experts, industry business experts, technology innovation experts and academic researchers and professors, primarily based in Kerala, India. A total of 234 valid responses were analyzed. The data was analyzed using Chi-square tests and Spearman’s rank correlation, employing SPSS version 29 for statistical processing. The findings reveal that innovation and eco-friendly products are strongly and positively associated with the growth of environmentally conscious start-up models. E-commerce emerged as the most impactful opportunity construct, underlining its role as a scalable and technology-enabled business model. Remote work was shown to significantly enhance operational flexibility and inclusivity. Additionally, renewable resource solutions and waste management technologies reflect a strong orientation toward sustainability, demonstrating that innovation hubs support both economic and environmental objectives. These insights suggest that innovation hubs in India are effectively leveraging opportunity constructs to empower start-ups, drive sustainable practices, and support long-term economic growth. This research is original in its approach to examining how innovation hubs act as platforms for integrating technological advancement, green innovation, and entrepreneurial strategies to address market challenges and foster a sustainable start-up ecosystem in India
Urban Car-Sharing Viability in the Knowledge Economy: A Monte Carlo-Based Planning Tool for Shared Mobility Policy
No full textThis study presents a Monte Carlo simulation to estimate the viability thresholds of car-sharing services in urban areas. Departing from traditional revenue-based assessments, the model uses real cost structures to identify the minimum population size required to reach critical mass. Critical mass, in this context, is defined as the number of users needed for a platform business to reach its breakeven point. The study also explains the increasing urban-rural divergence in adopting platform-based services. The findings highlight substantial urban-rural divides in service viability and offer concrete tools for policymakers to allocate resources and support infrastructure in underserved areas. This cost-based planning tool contributes to sustainable urban mobility policy by quantifying regional thresholds for service provision. To simulate these results, a multivariate model was developed that considers real market data in the car-sharing industry. The model considers several input variables to capture a broad spectrum of market conditions that feed into a final formulation providing two distinct results: an on-site service provider's critical mass and an estimation of the population required in an area for the company to reach its minimum threshold. The study provides a transparent, data-driven tool to support urban mobility planning and resource allocation. By identifying critical population thresholds for the economic viability of car-sharing services, the model enables policymakers and urban planners to make evidence-based decisions on where to facilitate or subsidise shared mobility infrastructures. The simulation was run 10,000 times to reflect a broad range of market conditions. Results from the Berlin case show a minimum viability threshold of approximately 1.12 million residents, with a probability of around 91% at Berlin’s current population of 3.71 million and near-certain viability at around 5.8 million residents. In regions falling below these thresholds, the tool helps to justify targeted interventions—such as financial grants, regulatory incentives or hybrid public-private service models—to mitigate accessibility gaps and reduce urban-rural mobility disparities. As such, the model contributes to a more efficient and equitable allocation of mobility resources and supports the strategic deployment of sustainable transport solutions in underserved areas
Technological Innovations and Employees’ Employability Development Challenges in Mauritius. The Mediating Effect of Career Anchors
Full text linkThis study investigates the impact of rapid technological innovations, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, on employees’ employability in Mauritius during the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It addresses the critical research question of how these technological changes affect skill development, job security, and career perceptions within various sectors of the Mauritian economy. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected through a questionnaire survey from 217 respondents across multiple industries. The study applies correlation and regression analyses to examine the determinants of technological innovation, organizational strategies, and their effects on employability outcomes, including the mediating role of career anchors. Findings reveal a dual impact of technological advancements: while they threaten job security through automation and disruption, they simultaneously create opportunities for employees to upskill and enhance their competitiveness. Organizations that adopt proactive strategies, such as fostering continuous learning and promoting adaptability, significantly improve workforce employability and resilience amid digital transformation. The results highlight the importance of organizational support in mitigating risks associated with technological change and in facilitating career development. This paper contributes to the understanding of how technological innovation reshapes employment landscapes in Mauritius, emphasizing both favorable and unfavorable consequences for employees. It underscores the need for strategic interventions to balance technological progress with workforce sustainability. The study’s insights are valuable for policymakers, business leaders, and educational institutions aiming to navigate the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by AI and digital transformation in Mauritius’s evolving labor market. This research thus offers a comprehensive view of the complex relationship between technology, employability, and career development in a small island developing economy undergoing rapid digital change