Administrative Sciences

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Work Model: An Approach to Work–Life Flexibility in a Changing Environment

by

Martin Krajčík

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Dušana Alshatti Schmidt

and

Matúš Baráth

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060150 - 06 Jun 2023

Abstract

Employees’ work environment has drastically shifted from offices to homes. Telework is often a desired employee benefit, but employers consider it a temporary setting. The lasting COVID-19 pandemic has changed the concept of telework. Home office has gained importance and will likely become [...] Read more.

Employees’ work environment has drastically shifted from offices to homes. Telework is often a desired employee benefit, but employers consider it a temporary setting. The lasting COVID-19 pandemic has changed the concept of telework. Home office has gained importance and will likely become an essential part of the working environment even after the pandemic. This paper aims to identify the preferences of employees from culturally diverse backgrounds in relation to the setting of their work location and time after the end of the pandemic. A web-based questionnaire survey as a quantitative research method was used. Data were collected from employees in Slovakia and Kuwait. The research findings indicate that employees value time flexibility, although localization flexibility is also growing in importance. The proposed hybrid work model seems to be the most suitable solution in line with the employees’ preferences. It is crucial to understand employees’ needs in terms of working time and place because only workplaces that are designed for employees and show organizational resiliency can survive and maintain competitiveness in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Management and Business Models in Public Administration: An International Perspective)

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Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Leadership Styles, Ethical Behavior, and Organizational Identification on Workers' Well-Being

by

Gianni Onesti

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060149 - 05 Jun 2023

Abstract

This paper aims to assess workers’ well-being through a survey of Italian firms by exploring the factors of leadership styles, ethical behavior, and organizational identification. In recent years, also due to the COVID-19 pandemic and technological progress, workers’ well-being has increasingly become a [...] Read more.

This paper aims to assess workers’ well-being through a survey of Italian firms by exploring the factors of leadership styles, ethical behavior, and organizational identification. In recent years, also due to the COVID-19 pandemic and technological progress, workers’ well-being has increasingly become a fundamental driver for company strategy and governance. Workers are increasingly interested in their well-being and work–life balance rather than just their level of remuneration or position at work. The company’s ability to strategically retain capable collaborators is, therefore, fundamental, especially in light of the recent increase in resignations. Based on a sample of workers in Italian firms during the post-COVID-19 period (the year 2022), this paper evaluates whether leadership styles, ethical behavior, and organizational identification are related to workers’ well-being beyond the workplace. The empirical model allows for a clear and effective evaluation of several characteristics, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the data that support management’s strategic decisions regarding worker well-being policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Healthy Work Relationships: From Theoretical Perspectives to Interventions)

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Open AccessArticle

Towards the Voluntary Adoption of Integrated Reporting: Drivers, Barriers, and Practices

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Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060148 - 05 Jun 2023

Abstract

Integrated reporting is essentially a voluntary practice worldwide. For this reason, although it is growing, its diffusion is slow. Based on the Portuguese context, where a reduced number of listed companies publish integrated reports, this study aims to explore the drivers and barriers [...] Read more.

Integrated reporting is essentially a voluntary practice worldwide. For this reason, although it is growing, its diffusion is slow. Based on the Portuguese context, where a reduced number of listed companies publish integrated reports, this study aims to explore the drivers and barriers for the voluntary adoption of integrated reporting and the reporting practices up to the production of an integrated report. To this end, an analytical framework based on the Diffusion of Innovation Theory was developed and applied to data collected from a survey and corporate reports from both “adopters” and “non-adopters”. The evidence collected suggests that the adoption of integrated reporting may be driven by the perception of a relative advantage over traditional reporting in terms of providing more relevant information to capital providers, particularly banks. The publication of an integrated report appears to be the result of a process of incremental improvements in the practice of disclosure and assurance of non-financial information, so that the previous experience with sustainability reporting is also an important driver for voluntary integrated reporting. Finally, companies may be differently prepared for transition to integrated reporting and, therefore, have different perceptions of its cost and complexity, which may act as a barrier. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Entrepreneurial Competence Development Program: Implementing Efficiency through Knowledge Sharing

by

Sergei Smirnov

,

Svetlana Dmitrichenkova

,

Elena Dolzhich

and

Gulnaz Murzagalina

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060147 - 01 Jun 2023

Abstract

The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of introducing methods used in other countries on student success. The results suggested that the introduction of specific practices to improve entrepreneurial competence would be more effective forgoing such special training methods. This [...] Read more.

The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of introducing methods used in other countries on student success. The results suggested that the introduction of specific practices to improve entrepreneurial competence would be more effective forgoing such special training methods. This was validated by the results of a test survey conducted by an expert panel. According to the panel, the quality of knowledge among students in the groups in which new methods were introduced was as follows: 7.5 points on average out of 10 for the first group; 7.9 points on average out of 10 for the second group; 7.8 points on average out of 10 for the third group; and 6.4 points on average out of 10 for the fourth group. These data suggest that new practices improve students’ knowledge and skills. The students themselves also assessed the improvement in their quality of knowledge. More specifically, the students in the second group gave a very high average score of 4.4 out of a possible 5 for the effectiveness of the European methods. The same parameter was rated 3.4 out of 5 points by the fourth group. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Comparing the Innovation and Export Performance of Hungarian Family and Non-Family Enterprises: Experiences Drawn from Empirical Surveys

by

Judit Csákné Filep

,

László Radácsi

and

Áron Szennay

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060146 - 01 Jun 2023

Abstract

Family enterprises are considered to be one of the oldest and still dominant forms of business organisations. However, their innovation activity is an emerging area of research, especially in the Central and Eastern European region. The aim of our study is to address [...] Read more.

Family enterprises are considered to be one of the oldest and still dominant forms of business organisations. However, their innovation activity is an emerging area of research, especially in the Central and Eastern European region. The aim of our study is to address this research gap by investigating, with the help of statistical tools, the relationship between the familiness of the firms, their innovation activity, and their export activity on representative samples of Hungarian SMEs in the years 2017, 2020, and 2022. Our results suggest that the innovation activity of exporting Hungarian SMEs is more significant than that of non-exporting SMEs. However, the relationship between familiness and innovation activity is not uniform in the three analyzed years, and the relationship between familiness and export activity is not significant. The findings of this study, that firms’ innovation and exporting activities can be mutually reinforcing, can be used by policymakers, curriculum developers in business education, and entrepreneurs. One of the main limitations of our research is that the 2020 and 2022 surveys were conducted after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and the shock of the Russian–Ukrainian war, respectively; thus, the decisions of the firms could have been influenced by the unpredictability of the external environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Innovations: Challenges and Successes for Organisations in the Modern Business Environment)

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Open AccessArticle

Uncertainty in the Planning Phase of Public Projects—Its Scope, Consequences, and Possible Remedies

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Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060145 - 01 Jun 2023

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the uncertainty scope and types present in public projects, with uncertainty defined as a lack of knowledge, and to formulate recommendations for improving the success rate of public projects. Apart from a literature review, a [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to assess the uncertainty scope and types present in public projects, with uncertainty defined as a lack of knowledge, and to formulate recommendations for improving the success rate of public projects. Apart from a literature review, a questionnaire was administered among 60 Italian and 40 Polish public-project managers. Questions about the level of knowledge of various project aspects (e.g., project stakeholders or project environment) in the project-planning phase were asked. It was found that, in their own opinion, knowledge of essential aspects of public projects in the planning stage was fairly low among public-project managers. On top of that, the results showed in which areas, and in which of the two countries, the uncertainty was mostly present. This type of research has not been identified in the literature. In both countries, an especially high uncertainty level characterized project stakeholders. The survey’s conclusions are juxtaposed with results from the literature: the negative influence of lack of knowledge (i.e., uncertainty) on project success, specific features of public projects and public-project managers, and the fact that certain negative phenomena influencing project success are significantly more present in the public than in the private sector. Our results indicate which aspects of public projects in both countries should be subject to deep changes—as far as information collecting and processing, in the project-defining and planning phase, is concerned. All this leads to recommendations of measures to be introduced in the public sector with respect to public-project management, e.g., the establishment of project management offices, project knowledge sharing, project management training—all focused on the identified uncertainty types in public projects, such as management of project stakeholders. The main limitations of the study were the relatively small sample sizes, a non-random sample selection, a bias due to misinterpretation of the questions, and cultural differences. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Blockchain-Based Crowdfunding Campaign Success Factors Based on VASMA-L Criteria Weighting Method

by

Santautė Venslavienė

,

Jelena Stankevičienė

and

Ingrida Leščauskienė

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060144 - 30 May 2023

Abstract

When investing in blockchain-based crowdfunding campaigns, choosing the right one is difficult. Therefore, it is important to recognize success factors that express the value of the specific campaign. This study is aimed at determining the success factors impacting the investors’ decision to fund [...] Read more.

When investing in blockchain-based crowdfunding campaigns, choosing the right one is difficult. Therefore, it is important to recognize success factors that express the value of the specific campaign. This study is aimed at determining the success factors impacting the investors’ decision to fund blockchain-based crowdfunding campaigns and ranking them according to their importance in decision-making. An online survey was employed to collect expert opinions. The modification of the visual analogue scale matrix for criteria weighting methodology called VASMA-L was presented in this study to rank the list of the predetermined factors. To reduce the uncertainties in the decision-making process and the cognitive overload of the survey respondents, all the predetermined success factors were split into two smaller groups and assessed as those that fit both traditional and blockchain-based crowdfunding models and those that are specific only to the blockchain-based crowdfunding model. The main findings disclose that the three factors with the highest VASMA weights are from the first group. This means that when selecting the specific crowdfunding campaign to invest in, investors use common factors rather than those specific to blockchain-based crowdfunding. Only investor preferences were chosen and analyzed for successful blockchain-based crowdfunding campaign investment in this research. The VASMA-L methodology might help compare several criteria groups and select the most important ones. In addition, this weighting methodology might help investors to choose the most thrilling blockchain-based crowdfunding campaigns to fund. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Including the Excluded: Sense-Making and Job Crafting as Drivers of Dialogical Change Management in Italian Universities for Refugees’ Inclusion

by

Federico Ceschel

,

Plinio Limata

and

Lucia Marchegiani

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060143 - 29 May 2023

Abstract

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are increasingly called to substantiate their impact on society in terms of inclusivity and social sustainability, as prioritized in the pursuit of the “Third Mission” (TM). Today, HEIs are confronted with the demand to ensure refugees’ inclusivity. However, how [...] Read more.

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are increasingly called to substantiate their impact on society in terms of inclusivity and social sustainability, as prioritized in the pursuit of the “Third Mission” (TM). Today, HEIs are confronted with the demand to ensure refugees’ inclusivity. However, how administrative and teaching staff enact such change within the organization to match the TM goals is under-investigated. This study explores the adoption of the European Qualification Passport for Refugees (EQPR) as an instrument for universities to pursue the TM in Italy. By adopting a theoretical sense-making approach, we find that the individual role of the staff in fostering organizational change depends on the adopted “emergent” approach to change and on internal factors, such as individual perceptions and experiences. This study contributes to the literature by showing contradictory aspects of the HEIs’ pursuit of the TM. It sheds light on the interplay between different dimensions and grounded processes of sense-making. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Importance of CEO Attention in Influencing Incumbent Responses to Disruptive Innovation

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Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060142 - 29 May 2023

Abstract

This study investigates incumbent firm responses to disruptive innovation in the rapidly evolving South Korean retail industry. The study explores the factors behind an incumbent firm’s decision-making processes when responding to disruptive innovation and examines the reasons behind varied incumbent responses. It investigates [...] Read more.

This study investigates incumbent firm responses to disruptive innovation in the rapidly evolving South Korean retail industry. The study explores the factors behind an incumbent firm’s decision-making processes when responding to disruptive innovation and examines the reasons behind varied incumbent responses. It investigates the agents that influence a firm’s decision by conducting the qualitative case study of a South Korean retail giant, Lotte. By collecting archival data from various sources, this paper was able to analyze different interviews and statements of the chief executive officer (CEO). From the analysis, it was determined that the firm’s overall actions were aligned with the CEO’s assertions. Thus, this paper asserts that Lotte’s response to disruptive innovation was directly influenced by the CEO’s attention. The results of this study further add to the discourse of disruptive innovation by highlighting the importance of CEO discretion in deciding a firm’s direction and by further emphasizing the relationship between managerial leadership and innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategic Innovation and Emerging Markets: Trends, Issues and Future Directions)

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Open AccessArticle

Japan’s Corporate Governance Transformation: Convergence or Reconfiguration?

by

Theo Renou

,

René Carraz

and

Thierry Burger-Helmchen

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060141 - 29 May 2023

Abstract

Japanese firms have historically followed a country-specific model of corporate governance. Yet, Japan has had to adapt its corporate model over the last 30 years, along with the transformation of distinctive characteristics of Japanese capitalism in the same period. We review the historical [...] Read more.

Japanese firms have historically followed a country-specific model of corporate governance. Yet, Japan has had to adapt its corporate model over the last 30 years, along with the transformation of distinctive characteristics of Japanese capitalism in the same period. We review the historical evolution of Japanese corporate governance over the last three decades with a specific emphasis on the changes in the capital structure of major companies and the efforts to correct ineffective board of directors monitoring. By doing this, we investigate to what extent specific Japanese corporate governance features may explain the nation’s economic situation over this period. Thereby, we try to clarify the influences that have presided over recent corporate governance reforms in Japan despite the existence of managerial failures and corporate scandals. This paper places itself into the debate over the diversity of capitalism as it portrays the specificities, differences, and converging trends of Japanese corporate governance practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Entrepreneurs as the Neoteric Driver of Skill Variety and Economic Prosperity

by

Alex Maritz

,

Quan Nguyen

and

Abu Ismail

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060140 - 26 May 2023

Abstract

Nearly a quarter of all global start-ups are founded by hybrid entrepreneurs, that is, individuals that engage in self-employment activity while simultaneously holding a primary job in wage or remuneration work. This study is the first of its kind to examine hybrid entrepreneurship [...] Read more.

Nearly a quarter of all global start-ups are founded by hybrid entrepreneurs, that is, individuals that engage in self-employment activity while simultaneously holding a primary job in wage or remuneration work. This study is the first of its kind to examine hybrid entrepreneurship in Australia using five pragmatic and embedded hybrid entrepreneur mini case studies. Aligning with human capital and skill variety theory, we adopted an interpretivist philosophical paradigm of emergent enquiry action and exploratory research. The paper explores characteristics and antecedents in the forms of the benefits and challenges associated with this increasingly prevalent form of entrepreneurship, including contextual and theoretical foundations. We provide policy and pragmatic research recommendations to enhance the development of this form of employment not only as a steppingstone to full-time self-employment but also as a driver of economic and social benefit to global societies. Furthermore, we provide inferences for future scientific studies within this domain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Innovations: Challenges and Successes for Organisations in the Modern Business Environment)

Open AccessReview

Twenty-Years Journey of Sustainable Human Resource Management Research: A Bibliometric Analysis

by

Shaha Faisal

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060139 - 25 May 2023

Abstract

Sustainability is gaining acceptance worldwide, and HRM is also influenced by it. Researchers globally are also exploring sustainable human resource management which creates a direct link between HRM and sustainability. Bibliometric analysis examined 247 documents on sustainable human resource management from 2003 to [...] Read more.

Sustainability is gaining acceptance worldwide, and HRM is also influenced by it. Researchers globally are also exploring sustainable human resource management which creates a direct link between HRM and sustainability. Bibliometric analysis examined 247 documents on sustainable human resource management from 2003 to 2022. This study aimed to analyze the research trend, global distribution, contributory journals, leading authors, and contributing nations in sustainable HRM. In this bibliometric analysis, 247 documents have been analyzed. The review revealed that sustainable HRM is still an emerging concept worldwide; more researchers from European and Asian countries dominate this field. The present review will be helpful for academicians, practitioners, and researchers in this field. The study also presents interesting results that could help line managers and top managers to formulate ideas for sustainable HRM practices in their own companies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Strategy and Sustainable Development: Perspective on Digital Innovation)

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Open AccessArticle

The Police and Citizens as Co-Producers of Crime Prevention in Johannesburg

by

Mary S. Mangai

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Anjewayne Clive Pillay

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Tyanai Masiya

and

Stellah Lubinga

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060138 - 25 May 2023

Abstract

The city of Johannesburg is the largest metropolitan municipality out of eight in South Africa. It is notorious for its high levels of crime, with a crime index of 80.72 and a safety index of 19.28. This article examines crime prevention co-production in [...] Read more.

The city of Johannesburg is the largest metropolitan municipality out of eight in South Africa. It is notorious for its high levels of crime, with a crime index of 80.72 and a safety index of 19.28. This article examines crime prevention co-production in the Johannesburg metropolitan area. The purpose of the study was to analyse how co-production of crime prevention is organised in Johannesburg and to understand the effectiveness of the practice there. Collaborations between the regular producers (police) and citizens were assessed to fully determine the potential of crime prevention co-production. This led to qualitative interviews with 20 police officers from 10 police stations in the Johannesburg metropolitan area. A citizen survey was conducted with a selected sample from the population (n = 400) residing in the neighbourhoods covered by the police stations investigated. The findings indicate that police officers have devised practices and programmes to co-produce crime prevention. These include the sharing of pamphlets and crime prevention education and awareness during school visitations, the use of Zello technology, community police forums, and information sharing at the youth desk and in WhatsApp groups. Nevertheless, these practices do not seem to be popular among the citizens. There is a contradiction in the perception of successful crime prevention co-production between citizens and the police. This is mainly due to citizens’ lack of trust in the police. The study acknowledged the importance of the work carried out by the police in crime prevention co-production but also observed the citizens’ lack of trust in the police as a potential threat to crime prevention co-production. Trust is crucial in managing information sharing on crime prevention. Front line professionals, such as the police, will not be able to meet future crime challenges if there is a trust deficit. Hence, it is important to restore trust in the work carried out by the police. Professionals in public administration could learn about the importance of trust in their crucial role of implementing policies, government programmes, and service delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Long-Term Sustainability of Co-creation and Co-production of Public Services)

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Open AccessArticle

Leadership, Communication, and Job Satisfaction for Employee Engagement and Sustainability of Family Businesses in Latin America

by

Julianna Ramirez-Lozano

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Renato Peñaflor-Guerra

and

Victoria Sanagustín-Fons

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060137 - 24 May 2023

Abstract

This research focuses on the determinants of employee engagement in family businesses in Peru. The study is based on previous research that showed the importance of organisational culture, leadership, and human resource management practices to achieve effective business performance. The methodological strategy was [...] Read more.

This research focuses on the determinants of employee engagement in family businesses in Peru. The study is based on previous research that showed the importance of organisational culture, leadership, and human resource management practices to achieve effective business performance. The methodological strategy was to conduct a qualitative, quantitative, and documentary analysis research. The study found that participatory and authentic leadership styles, effective communication, and job satisfaction were key factors to retain talent in two family businesses and small to medium-sized enterprises in Peru. These factors can enhance employee engagement, which is critical for the success of family businesses. The results suggest that Peruvian family businesses can improve their sustainability and contribute positively to the economic growth of the country by utilising different measures. They can prioritise leadership, communication, and job satisfaction; offer opportunities for employee development and growth; provide competitive compensation packages; and create a positive work environment. The findings have implications for family businesses in emerging markets as well as for businesses operating in consolidated markets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Leadership)

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Open AccessArticle

Ethical Reasoning at Work: A Cross-Country Comparison of Gender and Age Differences

by

Karin Lasthuizen

and

Kamal Badar

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(5), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13050136 - 19 May 2023

Abstract

This paper uses the IBE Ethics at Work 2018 survey to explore employees’ ethical reasoning and examine gender and age differences across 12 countries. Debates about gender and ethics have been intense since Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, with feminist critiques from Gilligan [...] Read more.

This paper uses the IBE Ethics at Work 2018 survey to explore employees’ ethical reasoning and examine gender and age differences across 12 countries. Debates about gender and ethics have been intense since Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, with feminist critiques from Gilligan and others advocating the different voice of women, while the recent arrival of Millennials in the workplace has raised new questions about age/generational differences and ethics. The findings in this study suggest that women and older workers have stronger ethical judgments in the workplace than men and younger workers. These gender and age differences, both among employees and managers, are consistent across countries. This study shows that individual characteristics are important for employees’ ethical reasoning, which affects their ability to make ethical decisions and act ethically. Business ethics research should therefore take greater account of differences between (groups of) employees and their learning needs when examining the effectiveness of ethics policies and instruments, while organizations can improve employee ethical reasoning by adopting diversity-based training programs and ethical leadership. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Embedding Sustainability in Organizations through Climate, Culture and Leadership)

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Open AccessArticle

The Interaction Effect of Nomination Committee’s Effectiveness on Board of Directors’ Characteristics and Firm Performance

by

Mujeeb Saif Mohsen Al-Absy

and

Nada Hameed AlMahari

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(5), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13050135 - 18 May 2023

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the interaction effect of the nomination committee’s effectiveness on the board of directors’ characteristics and firm performance (measured by return on assets and earnings per share). The nomination committee was scored for committee separation, size, independence, meeting frequency, [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine the interaction effect of the nomination committee’s effectiveness on the board of directors’ characteristics and firm performance (measured by return on assets and earnings per share). The nomination committee was scored for committee separation, size, independence, meeting frequency, and the number of female directors. The study selected all listed firms on the Bahrain Bourse for two years, 2020 and 2021, using ordinary least-squares regression to examine the relationship. The results showed that the interaction of the nomination committee with some characteristics of the board of directors had a significant impact on firm performance. With the interaction of the nomination committee, board meeting frequency became significantly positively associated with firm performance as measured by return on assets and earnings per share, as opposed to the insignificant results found in the direct relationship. Similarly, with the interaction of the nomination committee, the number of female directors became more significantly positively associated with firm performance using the measurement of return on assets, while it became significantly positively associated with firm performance using earnings per share, compared to an insignificant positive impact found in the direct relationship. The results show that there is a need to re-evaluate the role of the board of directors and strengthen its effectiveness. This study is the first to alert policymakers, businesses and their stakeholders, and researchers to the significance of having an effective nomination committee, which could play an important role in enhancing the board of directors’ effectiveness and hence firm performance. It makes a significant contribution to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the interaction impact of NC (as a score) on BOD characteristics and firm performance. Full article

Open AccessArticle

The Maturity of Strategic Networks’ Governance: Proposal of an Analysis Model

by

Marione Winkler

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Douglas Wegner

and

Clea Beatriz Macagnan

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(5), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13050134 - 17 May 2023

Abstract

Strategic Networks (SNs) consist of dozens to hundreds of organizations that work together to achieve common goals but remain legally independent. Because most SNs are managed by hired professionals rather than member companies, more structured governance models are recommended as the number of [...] Read more.

Strategic Networks (SNs) consist of dozens to hundreds of organizations that work together to achieve common goals but remain legally independent. Because most SNs are managed by hired professionals rather than member companies, more structured governance models are recommended as the number of members grows. In addition, removing the network members from management roles allows for the emergence of a conflict of interest and the problem of information asymmetry. The purpose of this study is to propose a model for assessing the maturity level of SNs’ governance. Using Design Science Research (DSR), a model of 34 items was developed to measure the maturity level of SN governance and serve as a guide for analyzing this type of inter-organizational collaboration. Using these indicators can provide opportunities for governance system improvements, resulting in better management of SNs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Employees’ Mental Toughness on Organizational Commitment and Job Satisfaction: Mediating Psychological Well-Being

by

Minkyung Lee

and

Boyoung Kim

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(5), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13050133 - 15 May 2023

Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of mental toughness of employees on their psychological well-being, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. A research model based on structural equation modeling ‘ developed, and a survey was conducted with 534 office workers in Korean companies [...] Read more.

This study aims to examine the impact of mental toughness of employees on their psychological well-being, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. A research model based on structural equation modeling ‘ developed, and a survey was conducted with 534 office workers in Korean companies to gather the data. The findings indicate that mental toughness has a significant effect on psychological well-being and positively (+) affects organizational commitment and job satisfaction through psychological well-being. The study also reveals that mental toughness has a greater influence on organizational commitment than on job satisfaction. However, the positive effect of job satisfaction was found to increase when psychological well-being was mediated. Consequently, this study recommends that employees’ mental toughness be managed effectively to improve their job satisfaction and organizational commitment, leading to enhanced job competency, and reduced turnover intention. These findings are of practical significance to organizational practitioners, as they underscore the importance of fostering mental toughness among employees to promote their well-being and commitment to their work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Healthy Work Relationships: From Theoretical Perspectives to Interventions)

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Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Risk Management in Industrial Companies in Jordan

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Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(5), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13050132 - 12 May 2023

Abstract

This study aims to identify and rank the critical factors affecting risk management from the perspective of top and Lower Management in Jordanian industrial companies. Based on a rigorous literature review, critical factors affecting risk management are factors related to (1) flexibility and [...] Read more.

This study aims to identify and rank the critical factors affecting risk management from the perspective of top and Lower Management in Jordanian industrial companies. Based on a rigorous literature review, critical factors affecting risk management are factors related to (1) flexibility and adaptation in the economic environment; (2) company characteristics; (3) external audit quality; (4) government rules and regulations; (5) top management and the board of directors; (6) organizational structure; (7) internal audit effectiveness; (8) trust; (9) human resources efficiency and training (10); communications (11); information technology (12); and the company’s culture. Quantitative research methods were used. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to a random sample of senior managers of industrial companies in Jordan. Kendall and Mann–Whitney tests, RII, and EFA were used to analyze the acquired data. The results show that all discussed factors have an effect on risk management, and there is no difference between top and Lower Management’s opinions regarding the ranking of the importance of those factors on risk management. This study provides an original perspective on the concept of risk management and the factors that impact it. These findings have important implications for Jordanian industrial companies’ decision makers. Companies should apply the results to their strategies and policies to reduce risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Technology Innovation and Risk Management)

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