Al-Kindi Center for Research and Development (KCRD) (E-Journals)
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Financial Performance and Risk Management Strategies in Selected China Airlines: Basis for a Foreign Exchange Mitigation Framework
No full textThis study investigates the interplay between risk identification, exchange rate exposure, foreign exchange risk response, and financial performance in the airline industry in China. Using data from industry participants and employing structural equation modeling, the analysis reveals that risk identification significantly impacts financial performance by enabling proactive management of exchange rate volatility. Additionally, exchange rate exposure directly affects both foreign exchange risk responses and financial outcomes. The findings emphasize the importance of integrated risk management practices to enhance financial stability and operational efficiency. Implications for industry practices and future research directions are discussed
Enhancing Project Citizenship Behavior by Psychological Empowerment: Roles of Work Engagement and Perceived Organizational Support
No full textIncreasing evidence suggests that project citizenship behaviors (PCBs) are critical to project success. However, the mechanisms that enhance PCBs remain poorly understood, particularly regarding the role of individual psychological states. Based on self-determination theory, this study investigated how and when the psychological empowerment of information technology (IT) project managers affects their PCBs. Data were collected in two waves of time-lagged surveys (N = 283). Research hypotheses were tested by partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). It was found that psychological empowerment positively predicts PCBs, and work engagement plays a partial mediating role. Results of necessary condition analysis (NCA) provide additional evidence for this. Moreover, perceived organizational support strengthened the relationships between work engagement and two types of PCBs (i.e., loyalty behavior and initiative behavior), but did not significantly moderate the relationships between work engagement and the other two types of PCBs (i.e., helping behavior and compliance behavior). This study enriches the literature on PCB antecedents and expands the application of self-determination theory in project management
Impact of Leader-Leader Exchange on Project Citizenship Behavior: Roles of Job Insecurity and Psychological Empowerment
No full textWhether project managers exhibit project citizenship behavior has a significant impact on project performance. However, existing research has not fully explored the factors that influence project citizenship behavior. Drawing on social exchange theory, this study proposes a moderated mediation model to examine the impact of project managers\u27 job insecurity on their project citizenship behavior. A questionnaire survey was conducted with 233 project managers in China. The results indicated that: (1) leader-leader exchange has a significant positive effect on project citizenship behavior; (2) job insecurity partially mediates the relationship between leader-leader exchange and project citizenship behavior; and (3) psychological empowerment strengthens the negative effect of leader-leader exchange on job insecurity. Our findings provide useful insights for the project management and organizational behavior literatures
Service Quality and Customers Trust Towards Crafting Business Strategy for Courier Service Company
No full textParticularly as individuals migrate from conventional to online shopping because of the epidemic, courier services are essential for the economy. Establishing long-term bonds and guaranteeing consistent and trustworthy services depend on confidence. Service quality can be hampered, though, by road congestion and unsuccessful deliveries. This study evaluates consumer trust in courier services by means of the SERVQUAL model; therefore, it addresses service quality. More perceived performance suggests more improved service quality. Evaluating service quality enables operators to modify their activities to satisfy consumer expectations and acquire a competitive edge. Courier services may remain competitive and help local communities by concentrating on service quality and understanding consumer demands. The study aimed to assess the impact of service quality in customers’ trust to courier services towards possible business strategies proposal. The study found that service quality predicts customers\u27 trust in courier service providers, with assurance being the best predictor. Tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy are essential for trust. The null hypothesis was rejected, indicating a significant impact of service quality on customer trust. A proposed business strategy was developed to enhance or maintain service quality and customer trust
Saudi Arabia\u27s Cloud Broadband Landscape: Opportunities and Challenges in the Era of Vision 2030
No full textThe cloud broadband market in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by the increasing enterprise adoption of cloud-based solutions. This necessitates high-performance, secure, and scalable connectivity, with a growing emphasis on cost-efficient broadband solutions. This research critically analyzes the current cloud broadband landscape, including enterprise usage patterns, preferred connectivity types, and investment trends. It also focuses on a leading telecommunications provider and the positioning of its strategy in this dynamic market. Based on primary research with 131 enterprises, the study identifies key opportunities, such as bundled cloud connectivity solutions, AI for cost optimization, and cybersecurity suite enhancements. However, challenges persist, including pricing sensitivity, intensified competition, and evolving enterprise demands. To maintain market leadership, the telecom provider must adopt an innovation-driven approach, balancing cost efficiency, AI integration, and flexible service models. Addressing these factors will enable the provider to improve its competitive advantage, accommodate the enterprise cloud on a greater scale, and solidify its leadership in Saudi Arabia’s expanding digital economy. A proactive approach is crucial for long-term success in this evolving market
Regulatory and Ethical Challenges in AI-Driven and Machine learning Credit Risk Assessment for Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) in U.S. E-Commerce: Compliance, Fair Lending, and Algorithmic Bias
No full textThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in credit risk assessment for Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services has transformed the U.S. e-commerce landscape. However, these advancements present significant regulatory and ethical challenges, particularly regarding compliance, fair lending practices, and algorithmic bias. This study examines the legal framework governing BNPL credit assessments, including adherence to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and other consumer protection regulations (Federal Trade Commission [FTC], 2022; U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [CFPB], 2023). Additionally, the paper explores the implications of algorithmic bias in AI-driven credit decisions, highlighting the potential for disparate impacts on marginalized communities (Bartlett et al., 2022; Bragg, 2021; Zarsky, 2016). The ethical concerns surrounding transparency, explain ability, and consumer rights are also discussed (Kroll et al., 2017; Pasquale, 2020). A comparative analysis of current regulatory approaches and proposed reforms is conducted, with a focus on mitigating bias and ensuring equitable access to credit. This research concludes with recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and financial technology firms to foster responsible AI deployment in BNPL services while safeguarding consumer protection and financial inclusion
Exploring the Impact of Relational and Geographic Search on Firm Innovation
No full textThis paper explores the interplay between geographic and relational search behaviors and their impact on innovation generation within firms. Extending previous research, our study explores the dual influences of geographic proximity and relational dynamics on both the quantity and quality of innovations. We develop a conceptual framework to examine the combined effects of these factors, identifying four distinct types of firm knowledge search behaviors and analyzing their repercussions on innovation outcomes. The study highlights the necessity for managers to adopt a balanced approach in strategic knowledge search. By acknowledging the trade-offs between different search strategies, managers can more effectively navigate the complexities of innovation processes. This balanced approach is essential for optimizing innovation outcomes and achieving sustained success in a rapidly changing business environment. Our study emphasizes the importance of a nuanced understanding of geographic and relational searches. By integrating these insights into their strategic planning, firms can enhance their capability to generate both incremental and breakthrough innovations, thereby strengthening their competitive position in the market. This paper provides valuable guidelines for firms aiming to enhance their innovation portfolios through informed and strategic knowledge search behaviors
Management by Walking Around (MBWA), Communication, and Productivity of Selected Employees in Chongqing, China
No full textThis study examined the Management by Walking Around (MBWA), communication, and productivity of selected employees in Chongqing, China. According to Dyer (2023), MBWA also encourages managers to broaden their inter-organizational connections and learn new leadership abilities, such as active listening, to assist in creating and sustain excellent employee-employer relationships. Effective communication stimulates the decision-making process and encourages effective communication among employees. The researchers aimed to assess the status of management by walking around, level of communication, and level of productivity of selected employees. It also examined whether there is a significant relationship exists between the status of management by walking around and the level of communication, the status of management by walking around and the level of productivity and the level of communication and the level of productivity of selected employees. The study utilized descriptive-correlational research method which determined the Management by Walking Around (MBWA), communication, and productivity among selected employees in Chongqing, China.The findings of the study revealed that the status of management by walking around was satisfactory and the level of communication of selected employees was very high. The level of productivity of selected employees was high. A significant relationship was noted between the status of management by walking around and the level of communication, with a Pearson r value of 0.429 indicating a moderate correlation. A p value of 0.000, lower than the 0.01 level of significance, indicated a significant relationship between the level of communication and the level of productivity. Management by Walking Around (MBWA) is a workplace practice where managers frequently observe and interact with employees. This approach promotes clear and effective communication, reducing extra work and missed cooperation. Employees complete tasks efficiently within designated time frames and seek ways to improve their skills. The practice is associated with higher productivity among employees in Chongqing, China, with higher communication levels leading to higher productivity
Generation Z versus Zillennial: Deliberating the Reflexive Leadership Context within the Organizational Transformation of Saudi Arabia
No full textThe Vision 2030-driven transformation of Saudi Arabia places unique challenges upon organizational structures and leadership, particularly for generational relationships in the workplace. This study review addresses the context of professional profiles of Generation Z (Gen Z) and the Zillennials in Saudi Arabia, and the extent to which they influence organizational transformation in pursuit of national goals. The generations, which are known for their technological acumen, innovation, and emphasis on diversity and inclusiveness, present both challenges and opportunities to organizational leadership. Therefore, the purpose of this study review is to ascertain the extent to which Gen Z and Zillennials are leading organizational transformation, their expected organizational cultures, and how these trends will potentially shape Saudi Arabian organizations. Through a qualitative synthesis of literature and case studies, the study explores the influence of Gen Z and Zillennial values and work ethic in the organization, emphasizing the transforming business landscape in the Saudi Arabian context. By studying evidence utilizing scientific methods that include document analysis and interviewing executives of transforming organizations, such as healthcare and technology, which are heavily influenced by the country\u27s Vision 2030, it is possible to gain an insider perspective on the extent to which the new generation is reshaping the business context. The study review found that while strong evidence regarding generational differences is not available, emerging evidence shows that differences between generations have a significant influence in spheres like organizational design, marketing, branding, and corporate culture. As a result, the study review shows that Gen Z and Zillennials appreciate inclusive cultures, adaptive work settings, and technological integration. However, while their technological prowess and innovation affinity drive performance, conflict with older generations, particularly Generation X and Baby Boomer colleagues, can create misunderstandings around work ethos and leadership. This intergenerational conflict illustrates the need for leadership and mentoring styles to have organizational flexibility. The study review further indicates the need to understand generational fluidity and intersectionality because there is tremendous variation in professional behavior depending on regional and cultural factors. The study review reinforces that developing the leadership of Zillennials, through targeted mentorship and generational collaboration, is crucial to realizing Saudi Vision 2030 strategic objectives. Organizations can tap into the talent of older and younger employees and drive effective national and business transformation agendas by creating an enabling environment that encourages collaboration among different generations. The study implies that an adapted strategy to manage generational diversity will be essential to shaping the future of work in Saudi Arabia
Modeling Corruption in Democratic States: Using Coordination Games to Explain Observed Trends in Corruption and Democratization
No full textThis article examines the complex relationship between democratization and corruption, emphasizing the non-linear effects of prolonged exposure to democratic institutions. A repeated coordination game model is presented to capture the evolving political incentives in democratic systems and their impact on corruption levels. By incorporating evolving heterogeneous payoffs, the model realistically reflects individual incentives and provides insights into the rate of convergence toward a stable equilibrium. The results generally align with existing empirical findings, demonstrating that significant reductions in corruption typically emerge only after sustained exposure to democratic institutions. These findings not only support previous empirical research, but also offer a robust theoretical framework for understanding the delayed yet profound improvements in governance associated with democratization