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Background: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face greatest difficulty in managing occupational risks compared to large enterprises. Limited resources, little knowledge about risk management process and deficiencies in organizational processes are often pointed in the literature as important obstacles to occupational safety and health (OSH) performance in SMEs. However, external factors can also be of paramount importance, such as the economic crisis. Because under specific scenarios OSH conditions may deteriorate in SMEs, is important to establish effective indicators., Objective: This study aims to identify OSH performance indicators within the context of SMEs., Methods: To identify the indicators, a literature review was carried out on different studies published in scientific journals in the OSH field between 2008 and October 2018 using the Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and PubMed databases., Results: As a result, 14 management and organization OSH indicators applied to SMEs were identified, along with 5 at individual OSH indicators., Conclusion: The indicators were discussed in relation to its applicability to assess OSH performance, as well as their reliability. Future research should be done to assess the identified indicators in SMEs.

Many Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) interventions have proven to be effective only under controlled conditions; during the implementation in practice, the interventions may not work as expected, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are affected by different contextual factors than larger enterprises and these factors can influence the outcome of the OSH programs. Three different phases of an OSH intervention (design, implementation, and control) have been considered. The aim of this research is to understand what are the mechanisms by which an OSH intervention works or does not work as expected, together with barriers and drivers, and the related contextual factors. The research was designed following multiple case study research, which enables an in depth understanding of the intervention process and the identification of the most relevant factors for OSH. Data were collected through interviews with owner-managers or OSH managers of SMEs. Finally, the data were analysed through an analytical research framework that enabled the identification of the main mechanisms and contextual factors for the interventions that had an expected outcome and for those which had an unexpected outcome., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

This study attempts to understand the processes that occur until the adoption of information technology resources yields the expected results. In particular, a value chain perspective is integrated with this relationship to investigate how the characteristics of each business activity result in distinct outcomes, thereby providing specific evidence for the management of information technology resources. The study also examines the moderating role of organisational restructuring in the relationship between information technology resources and firm performance. This study takes a third way to look at this relationship, assuming that both impacts can be observed, depending on the usage level. By doing so, this study may provide some clues for the mechanisms behind assimilating technology into organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an era where Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) redefine the boundaries of competition and collaboration, the concept of coopetition — simultaneous competition and cooperation — emerges as a strategic imperative for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This study presents the design and development of an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) artefact designed to enable competition among SMEs. Bringing the Service-Dominant Logic (S-D logic) foundations to IIoT, a Design Science Research (DSR) approach was employed. This approach facilitated the integration of design theory with practical problem-solving, creating the Coopetition IIoT-based System. The primary goal of this solution is to augment the dynamics of coopetition networks, with a particular focus on SMEs. The practical evaluation of the Coopetition IIoT-based System is assessed through a prototype evaluation by experts representing twenty-four manufacturing stone SMEs, a crucial sector in the Portuguese economy. The feedback received was highly positive, indicating a positive evaluation rate of 78.9%. This favourable response highlights the Coopetition IIoT-based System's proficiency in fostering simultaneous competition and cooperation throughout the lifecycle of business opportunities in SME networks, thereby underscoring its potential as a facilitator of effective competition. Theoretically, this research enriches the application of S-D logic in coopetition networks and advances state-of-the-art IIoT systems. Practically, the Coopetition IIoT-based System demonstrates significant potential in boosting the competitiveness of SMEs in developed economies. Nonetheless, the ultimate efficacy of such IIoT systems will be best determined through real-world application and evaluation. Future research should concentrate on the real-case deployment and assessment of Coopetition IIoT-based Systems within coopetition networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of the perception of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the perceptions of clients, employees, and managers in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ecuador. Utilizing a combination of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCM), the research addresses how CSR policies influence the various internal stakeholders of companies, identifying complex structures of interaction and perception dynamics that could impact organizational performance. This neutrosophic framework not only enhances the understanding of CSR but also promotes the development of workplace welfare policies that effectively cater to a diverse range of staff needs and expectations. SEM was used to estimate and validate the structural relationships, while FCM helped illustrate the dynamics within the CSR network, highlighting how different perceptions affect and are affected by other variables in the system. The study's findings indicate that the perception of CSR by employees and managers has a direct and significant effect on client perception, corroborating the importance of effective CSR management in enhancing customer satisfaction and overall business performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Emotions are widely acknowledged decision-making drivers, taking the front seat when managers lack objective information. Existing evidence indicates that negative emotions often lead to the decision to retrench. Contrary to these insights, our research aims to show that negative emotions can sometimes push top managers to withdraw from retrenching marketing activities. By drawing on the affect-as-information approach, this study aims to examine the direct and conditional effects of top managers' negative emotions on small and medium-sized enteprises (SMEs') intention to retrench marketing activities during the recent economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a descriptive research design and surveys a sample of 155 chief executive officers from business-to-business (B2B) SMEs in Croatia. The authors empirically test the conceptual framework with hierarchical regression. Findings: Based on the sample of 155 top managers of SMEs operating in B2B industries, negative emotions positively drive marketing retrenchment. However, additional insights reveal that this relationship is conditioned by crisis severity and SMEs' strategic orientations (exploration and exploitation). The relationship between negative emotions and marketing retrenchment weakens for SMEs severely hampered by the crisis and for SMEs following the exploitative orientation. In contrast, this relationship becomes stronger for SMEs whose business customers have been severely hampered and for SMEs following exploratory orientation. Originality/value: This research advances the body of knowledge by demonstrating that, depending on the severity of the crisis and the strategic orientation of the SME, top managers may interpret negative emotions quite differently, which eventually has lasting consequences on marketing retrenchment during crises. Therefore, by focusing on emotional microfoundations and unique crisis- and firm-level contingencies, this study goes beyond existing theoretical discussions that contrast marketing retrenchment vs investment and offers a different understanding of why and when SMEs retrench their marketing activities during crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The importance of financial dependence of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on their performance is a relatively unaddressed area of research. Relatedly, whether and to what extent foreign bank penetration exerts an impact in the presence of financial dependence also remains an open question. The purpose of the paper in this regard is to exploit unit-level data on Indian SMEs and assess the independent and interactive effects of financial dependence on SME behaviour, in the presence of foreign banks. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses fixed effects specification to address the issue. In subsequent analysis, this study also uses an instrumental variable approach for robustness. Findings: The results indicate that financial dependence improves investment and employment, although there is a decline in productivity. These findings differ across size classes of SMEs. Similar is the evidence in the presence of foreign banks. In particular, foreign bank penetration leads to a decline in investment for micro and medium SMEs, although for small SMEs, the impact is found to be the opposite. Originality/value: To the best of the author's knowledge, this is one of the early within-country studies to examine the interface between SMEs and financial dependence and the role played by foreign banks in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of procurement tools to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in public contracts by analysing contract awards for public works published on Tenders Electronic Daily in 2018–2022. Focusing on dividing contracts into smaller lots, a key feature of the 2014 EU modernised procurement framework, this study's findings reveal that splitting contracts might not necessarily attract SMEs to bid but increases their chances of winning such contracts. Other factors, such as using open and unrestricted bidding procedures and allowing SMEs to showcase their specialisation by awarding contracts based on the best price-quality ratio, positively affect the SMEs' bidding. The findings of this study emphasise the importance of thoroughly considering individual contract characteristics and overall procurement settings to accommodate SMEs' limited resource capacities and foster their performance in the public procurement marketplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper studies the impact of societal trust on the conservative financing policy puzzle, aiming to cover a gap in the relationship between cultural values and the conservative financing policy. Design/methodology/approach: We use a sample of 14,509 privately held medium-sized manufacturing firms from 26 European countries between 2015 and 2020 and rely on logistic regression methods controlling for firm-specific and macroeconomic factors. Findings: We show that societal trust decreases the odds of being a zero-leverage or almost zero-leverage firm. Also, the probability of being a conservatively financed firm increases for older and more profitable firms and decreases with tangibility. In more trustworthy national environments, firms are less averse to debt as a source of financing. Our results are robust to the specific measure of trust, estimation methods, sampling procedures, and annual financial constraint status. Moreover, we show that the effect is noticed both in the long-term debt and the short-term debt with a lower economic impact in the latter situation and that increased societal trust attenuates (reinforces) the effect of being a financially constrained (unconstrained) firm on the odds of adopting a conservative financing policy. Research limitations/implications: Societal trust strategically impacts debt financing policy and could help foster firms' growth, particularly for those facing heavier financial constraints. Originality/value: Novel evidence on the impact of societal trust on the conservative financing policy, for privately held medium-sized European firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The research on entrepreneurial leadership (EL) and supply chain resilience (SCR) relationship is still in its exploration stage. Previous research indicates that EL is important for enhancing supply chain performance, including its resilience. However, the conditions through which EL affects SCR remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of EL on SCR in the context of SMEs, in addition to explore the combined moderating effects of big data analytics capability (BDAC) and environmental dynamism (ED) in the EL–SCR relationship. Design/methodology/approach: Hierarchical regression analysis via PROCESS Macro was used to analyze the data collected from manufacturing SMEs in India. Findings: The findings reveal that EL positively and significantly affects SCR. Importantly, BDAC actually positively moderates the EL–SCR relationship regardless of the level of dynamism of the business environment. Originality/value: This research expands the existing body of knowledge on EL and SCR within the context of developing countries. The findings offer useful insights for SME managers and decision-makers, who are anticipated to consider the adoption of BDAC in their firms. This has implications that with BDAC adoption, it is anticipated that SMEs will be able to take advantage of the full potential of EL to enhance their SCR regardless of the level of dynamism of the business environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic adversely affected small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India. Amongst the challenges faced were the adjustments required in leadership skills to address pandemic-induced technological changes and the necessity for employee skill upgrading. This study examined the factors that influenced organisational performance in Indian SMEs, particularly in the context of the digital transformations that were brought about by the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed a cross-sectional design to investigate a set of hypotheses that were formulated to understand the relationships amongst digital leadership, digital training, empowerment and organisational performance. The data were collected during the pandemic from 487 employees who were working in various SMEs in India. Questionnaires were distributed through email and social media platforms, and electronic consent was obtained from each participant. Findings: The study's findings indicated positive associations amongst digital leadership, digital training, empowerment and organisational performance. They also highlighted the mediating role of empowerment in these relationships. Furthermore, organisational resilience was found to positively moderate the relationship between empowerment and performance. Originality/value: The study stands amongst the pioneers in exploring the role of digital leadership and digital training during the pandemic and their impact on employee empowerment amongst SMEs in a developing country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between digital transformation and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance in the context of SMEs. Drawing upon Resource Orchestration Theory, this research proposes a theoretical model that examines the direct effect of digital transformation on ESG performance and the mediating roles of innovation capabilities and servitization level in this relationship. PLS-SEM and fsQCA were employed to analyze survey data from 215 SME executives. The results reveal that digital transformation positively influences ESG performance. Moreover, innovation capabilities and servitization level partially mediate the relationship between digital transformation and ESG performance. This research contributes to the literature by proposing and validating a comprehensive model that integrates these constructs, offering actionable insights for SME managers and policymakers to enhance ESG outcomes through strategic digital initiatives. Notably, fsQCA results highlight three distinct configurations of digital transformation components leading to high ESG performance, providing nuanced pathways for SMEs to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although the importance of entrepreneurial culture (EC) has been recognized, it remains unclear how EC affects sustainable competitive performance (SCP). This study aims to explore how EC affects SCP via the mediating role of innovation capability (IC) and the moderating role of digital marketing capability (DMC). Design/methodology/approach: Based on data gathered from manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia, the proposed model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling via SmartPLS software. Findings: The analysis results indicate that EC affects IC, which in turn has a positive effect on SCP. In addition, IC mediates the EC-SCP relationship. Importantly, DMC positively moderates the EC–SCP relationship. Research limitations/implications: This study combines IC, DMC and SCP under resource-based view and dynamic capabilities theory into a single framework. Results confirm EC's impact on SMEs' manufacturing sector SCP, with IC mediating this link. However, the cross-sectional design restricts deeper respondent analysis. Practical implications: This study offers SME managers/owners and decision-makers insights on enhancing EC for better performance and competitive edge. It highlights IC's crucial role in translating EC into innovation and value creation. Policymakers can also use these findings to design programs for SMEs in emerging markets. Social implications: This study underscores the significance of EC adoption not only to generate a sustainable competitive advantage for the firm but also to increase the social as well as economic well-being of the firm, especially in the context of emerging economies, such as Malaysia; which are characterized by diverse ethnic groups contributing to their unique social fabric. Originality/value: This work fills the knowledge gap by providing empirical evidence for the mediating and moderating role of IC and DMC, respectively, in the link between EC and SCP, thus significantly contributing to emerging markets, where managers seek to enhance their understanding of using EC for fostering SCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been urged to embrace blockchain technology-driven supply chain financing (BcTSCF) by the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI); however, a substantial number have not responded favourably. With the utilization of purposive non-probability sampling approach, data was collected using questionnaires from 39 respondents (owners/managers of SMEs with BcTSCF experience as well as academics with BcTSCF expertise). Adopting the Technology-Organization-Environment framework, a list of drawbacks has been prioritized using a novel multi-criteria decision-making method called the Picture Fuzzy Preference Selection Index. This method involved the computation of total preference values, creation of picture fuzzy decision matrix, ranking and the selection of the drawback with the highest value, thus the prioritization of a set of determinants serving as drawbacks to adopting BcTSCF. The top five drawbacks to BcTSCF adoption are the availability of blockchain infrastructure, inadequate regulatory framework, lack of technical expertise, compatibility concerns, and insufficient government support. This study provides valuable input to industry practitioners, which might help the government and other stakeholders make corresponding policy arrangements. The original contribution of this study is the utilization of a novel picture fuzzy preference selection and the TOE framework to prioritize BcTSCF drawbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open innovation (OI) is an effective way for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to acquire external resources and enhance innovation performance. This study focuses on the effect of OI on innovation performance of SMEs. Specifically, this study classifies OI into inbound and outbound OI, and explores their respective impacts on SMEs' innovation performance. Besides, this study investigates the mediating role of absorptive capacity and the moderating role of business model on the above relationships. Based on the survey data from 218 Chinese manufacturing SMEs, our empirical results show that: (1) both inbound and outbound OI have positive impacts on SMEs' innovation performance; (2) absorptive capacity partially mediates relationships between inbound and outbound OI and innovation performance of SMEs; (3) efficiency-centered business model positively moderates the inbound and outbound OI-SMEs' innovation performance relationships, and novelty-centered business model only exhibits a moderating effect on outbound OI-innovation performance relationship. This study provides deeper insights into the relationship between OI and SMEs' innovation performance. Besides, this study reveals the mediating mechanism of OI on SMEs' innovation performance, and enhances our understanding of why some SMEs more successfully utilise OI activities to improve innovation performance than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain has attracted attention within business circles because it promotes secure and cost-saving transactions between anonymous parties without human mediation. This study examines the Technological Organizational and Environmental (TOE) drivers of blockchain supply chain finance adoption in Ghanaian SMEs. Specifically, this study differs from prior studies employing the United Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) which ignores the TOE elements. Utilising the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling method (PLS-SEM) and nonlinear non-compensatory PLS-ANN approach, we provide empirical evidence using data from 214 registered SME members of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI). Our findings suggest that relative advantage, cost, and complexity significantly influence the adoption of blockchain supply chain finance in SMEs. However, competitive pressure, market dynamics, and SME owner/manager support had no statistically significant influence on the intention of SMEs to adopt blockchain supply chain finance. This is because of the relatively low adoption rate of blockchain applications in SMEs in the country. Therefore, extensive education on the applications of blockchain technology is required to stimulate diffusion amongst SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major contributor to climate change is the emissions from Information and Communication Technology (ICT) devices and digitalisation. Energy use, heat production, and the operation of assets all contribute to the production of harmful emissions. However, indirect emissions, such as production and disposal, also play a role. We rely mainly on the output of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This paper focuses on the emissions of SMEs. Is it certain that cloud services (remote data storage and management) leave a much smaller carbon footprint than ICT devices for own use? These two solutions lead to a paradox: using more modern devices to produce less emissions requires more energy and generates more heat. This article analyses how to resolve this paradox for SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do emerging economy SMEs develop Corporate Entrepreneurship (CE)? Emerging economies represent different institutional contexts to those found in developed economies. Currently our understanding of CE and its emergence is rooted in Western-based assumptions. Consequently, our understanding of the inter-relationship between the emerging economy institutional environments and the SME environment and how they shape corporate entrepreneurial process remains lacking. In response to such gaps in our understanding, this study draws on both Institutional and Contingency theories to explore how CE is developed among African SMEs. Drawing on evidence from four indepth case studies of Kenyan SMEs, our findings reveal a complex process wherein elements of the Kenyan institutional environment shape the internal organization and CE related activities of Kenyan SMEs. Our study extends and enriches previous models of CE and deepen our understanding of how and why context matters for CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As the number of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) rises in the world, the amount of sensitive data used also increases, making them targets for cyberattacks. SMEs face a host of issues such as a lack of resources and poor cybersecurity talent, resulting in multiple vulnerabilities that increase overall risk. Cybersecurity risk assessment frameworks have been developed by multiple organizations such as the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), but they are complicated to understand and challenging to implement. This research aimed to create an effective cybersecurity risk assessment framework specifically for SMEs while considering their limitations. This was achieved by first identifying common threats and vulnerabilities and categorizing them according to their importance and risk. Secondly, popular frameworks like the NIST CSF and ISO 27001/2 were analyzed for their proficiencies and deficiencies while identifying relevant areas for SMEs. Finally, novel techniques catered to SMEs were explored and incorporated to create an effective framework for SMEs. This framework was also developed in the form of a tool, providing an interactive and dynamic environment. The tool was effective, and the framework is a promising start but requires more quantitative analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the mediating role of financial innovation and women's entrepreneurship practices in the relationship between ICT adoption and women's business performance. The sample consisted of 210 women SMEs, selected from a database from the Office of Cooperatives and SMEs in West Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The findings showed that financial innovation mediates the relationship between ICT adoption and SMEs' business performance. However, the study did not find that women's entrepreneurship practices and SMEs' business performance mediate the relationship between ICT adoption and SMEs' business performance. The findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the mediating role in the relationships between financial innovation and women's entrepreneurial practices, thereby facilitating the integration of ICT with the business performance of SMEs. Additionally, the findings have significant implications for policymakers seeking to design an effective support system for the digitalization of SMEs' businesses, especially among Indonesian women-owned SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores how entrepreneurial small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) manage coopetition strategies to innovate with large firms. While coopetition offers opportunities for innovation and growth, asymmetries between SMEs and large firms can provoke unilateral actions, opportunistic tactics, and knowledge theft which can undermine SME innovation power and jeopardise coopetition success. Based on a qualitative multiple-case study of 25 coopetitive innovation projects, each involving an SME and a large firm, we find that SMEs manage these risks by pursuing a synergistic mix of three distinct coopetition strategies: (1) Co-distribution, (2) Technology licensing, and (3) R&D co-development. In each strategy, SMEs navigate different coopetition intensities by dynamically combining the principles of separation, integration, co-management and co-ownership to achieve specific innovation outcomes. Our findings suggest that SMEs shift between cooperation- and competition-dominant strategies and employ a mix of management principles to offset asymmetrical risks and maximise their innovation benefits from coopetition with large firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Panorama Económico is the property of Universidad de Cartagena and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The agricultural machinery industry can significantly contribute to a more sustainable farming system through the development of eco-innovative products and production processes. This is particularly true for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which represent a significant share of this market. This study investigated the determinants of attitudes towards eco-innovating products and processes in a sample of small and medium agricultural machinery manufacturers (N = 47) from the Piedmont region (North–West Italy), analysing the role of enterprise's characteristics, perceived drivers and barriers, and environmental concern. Overall, product eco-innovation was considered important/very important for their firms by 88.3% of the respondents, whereas process eco-innovation by 67.7%. The regression analyses showed that the availability of a formal and hierarchical structure dedicated to Research and Development and of financial support were significantly associated (β = 0.301, p =.032 and β = 0.406, p =.011, respectively) to positive attitudes towards eco-innovating production processes, whereas the lack of know-how was the main obstacle to both product and process eco-innovativeness (β = − 0.564, p =.000 and β= − 0.397, p =.008, respectively). Environmental concern did not show any significant association with firms' perceived importance to eco-innovate either products (β = 0.097, p =.475) or processes (β = 0.248, p =.087). Implications for the development of interventions aiming at fostering positive attitudes towards eco-innovation among the targeted enterprises are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the effects of innovation on firm survival by using data from a representative survey of small and medium manufacturing firms in the province of Salerno, Italy. We innovate upon the literature by (a) comparing the impact of different sources of internal and external knowledge (including universities) on the probability of firm survival; (b) assessing the mediating impact of the human capital of workers and entrepreneurs on learning from these knowledge sources. Finally, we measure the impact of different types of innovation on firm survival. Our evidence upholds the link between innovation and firm survival, particularly for product and organisational innovation. Results regarding the impact of different sources of knowledge highlight the roles of employee training, the human capital of entrepreneurs and workers and the productivity of university departments providing relevant knowledge. Other elements of external knowledge, such as proximity to the University of Salerno or being in the city of Salerno, are significant facilitators of survival only if mediated through high levels of the human capital of entrepreneurs and workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines how social and environmental innovations affect cost leadership strategies, value creation, and overall firm/business performance. It has compared how SMEs handle the ever‐changing landscape of sustainability‐driven business practices with large manufacturing companies. With a cross‐sectional design, the study examined 179 manufacturing businesses to test the research framework. A structured questionnaire based on a five‐point Likert scale with organization as a unit of analysis was used to collect data. The research's measurement and structural models were derived from data analysis conducted using Smart PLS. Overall, the research revealed that environmental and social innovations have significant impacts on business performance through cost leadership strategies and value creation in both SMEs and large manufacturing companies. However, a direct relationship was not established between social innovation and value creation in the case of SMEs, but it was significant for large companies. Environmental innovation was found to have direct relationships with cost leadership and value creation in both SMEs and large manufacturing companies. This research shows managers and policymakers how companies of any size can balance cost leadership with environmental and social concerns to maximize resources and efficiency. It encourages sustainable practices that benefit society and the environment while boosting performance and guiding strategic decision‐making. The novelty of this study is the comparative analysis of SMEs and large companies that provide empirical evidence of the intricate connection between environmental and social innovations, cost leadership, value creation, and business performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and digital transformation (DT) on green innovation (GI) among manufacturing SMEs in Yemen, in addition to exploring the moderating role of DT in the relationship between CSR and GI. To this end, data collected from 224 SME managers/owners in Yemen were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM-PLS) via SmartPLS. The results indicate that CSR significantly enhances GI among manufacturing SMEs. Furthermore, DT not only has a direct positive effect on GI but also moderates the relationship between CSR and GI, amplifying the impact of CSR practices. This suggests that DT acts as a catalyst, strengthening the effects of CSR on GI. These results are expected to enlighten managers of manufacturing SMEs in least-developed countries on the importance of integrating CSR with DT strategies to improve GI capabilities. Therefore, policymakers should support this integration to foster sustainable development and enhance SMEs' performance. Overall, our findings contribute to the literature by combining CSR and DT within a framework that elucidates their interaction and impact on GI. It provides new insights into how DT can enhance CSR-driven GI in less developing countries. Article Highlights: CSR and digital transformation have a strong impact on green innovation. Digital transformation acts as a moderator between CSR and green innovation. The resource-based view (RBV) and stakeholder theory were useful to explain green innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this article, the authors draw-upon an extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) and propose a research model involving performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), facilitating conditions (FC) and competitive pressure (CP) as potential salient factors explaining the adoption of digitalization in European SMEs. The authors also postulate that there may be cross-cultural differences, thereby leading us to include the country as a moderator in the model. Design/methodology/approach: The authors validate this model with a cross-cultural sample involving 188 owner-managers from the Czech Republic and Slovakia and through the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) techniques as well as multi-group analysis. Findings: The results using the study's global dataset indicate that PE, FC and CP significantly affect owner-managers intentions toward digitalization in SMEs. The authors' application of the multi-group analysis also suggests that although the two countries differ in digitalization adoption intention, the differences are statistically insignificant. In the conclusion, the authors highlight several implications these findings have for theory and practice. Practical implications: The authors recommend that the providers of emerging digital technologies should improve on the performance features of those technologies and ensure they are relevant to the SMEs. By doing so, the adoption of digitalization will grow, because owner-managers of SMEs will have the confidence that adopting such technologies will improve their operations. Second, SMEs are required to provide adequate organizational and technical infrastructure to support digitalization adoption. Originality/value: Aside from being among the few attempts to extend the explanatory power of UTAUT with PE, EE, FC and CP in investigating digitalization adoption in SMEs context, this study also validates its model with rigorous methodological approach as well as three datasets (global, Czech Republic and Slovakia) thereby strengthening the validity of the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigates how the extant literature approached the issue of small firms' international market entry enabled by digital platforms. Design/methodology/approach: The paper presents a systematic literature review of the internationalization of small firms using digital platforms. It includes only empirical papers from Scopus and Web of Science databases, covering 2016 to mid-2023. Findings: The study provides both (1) a descriptive analysis of the selected papers, encompassing their temporal and spatial distribution, methods, theoretical perspectives and the type of platform examined and (2) a qualitative analysis of the articles' content in a narrative review structure, culminating in an integrated framework of key findings and suggested research questions on the role of digital platforms in small firm internationalization. Originality/value: There is still a very limited number of studies addressing the phenomenon, with several scholars recently calling for further research. This paper compiles, synthesizes, analyzes and integrates the empirical literature on SME internationalization enabled by digital platforms, offering possible future avenues to advance research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to understand how digital platforms and context-specific characteristics of China – such as swift guanxi – affect opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) entering this market. Design/methodology/approach: This study adopts a qualitative approach based on a multiple-case study of Italian SMEs in the wine industry that have activated international activities in China. Primary data consist of 32 interviews with SMEs' managers, local consumers and other stakeholders involved in firm internationalization. Findings: The findings of this study highlight that in SMEs' internationalization, the process of knowledge/learning on digital platforms takes place in a bidirectional way thanks to the interactions among multiple stakeholders, which activate consumer education and knowledge sharing. Originality/value: While previous research has emphasized firms' knowledge acquisition in the internationalization process, this study incorporates both the consumer perspective and the firm perspective, along with considering interactions with various stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Erciyes Akademi is the property of Erciyes Universitesi Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article focuses on the significance of human capital management (HCM) for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their evolving perceptions of this concept. Topics include the challenges SMEs face in adopting HCM practices, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employee perception, and the role of HCM in enhancing financial performance and competitiveness.

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the relationships between managers' cognitive styles, dynamic managerial capabilities and firms' perceived international performance. The study is based on cognitive-experiential self-theory, dynamic managerial capabilities and international entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 283 managers of small medium enterprises (SMEs) in Türkiye, an emerging economy. The research was conducted using quantitative methods, and Smart partial least squares (PLS) 4 software was used for data analysis. The data were examined through structural equation modelling and mediation analyses. Findings: Findings indicate that rational cognitive styles positively influence managerial human capital, managerial social capital, managerial cognition and perceived international performance. However, the effect of intuitive cognitive styles was confirmed only on managerial cognition. Additionally, it was found that managerial cognition positively affects perceived international performance, whereas managerial social capital has a negative impact. However, the effects of managerial human capital could not be confirmed. Moreover, a full mediation relationship of managerial cognition between intuitive cognitive styles and perceived international performance was identified. Originality/value: This research carves out a unique niche by synergizing cognitive-experiential self-theory with dynamic managerial capabilities to investigate their conjoined effect on firms' international performance, an area previously underexplored. Unveiling insights from burgeoning economies like Türkiye enriches the existing body of knowledge, offering substantial contributions to the field of international business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Business sustainable development (BSD) refers to practices that meet current economic, environmental, and social needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In Ethiopia, prior studies overlooked this concept when studying entrepreneurial marketing practices (EMP) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This study aimed to investigate the effect of these practices on the BSD. Employing a mixed‐methods approach, primary and secondary data from 387 SMEs (selected via stratified and simple random sampling from 5765) are analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results demonstrate a significant, positive relationship between EMP such as innovativeness, opportunity focus, value creation, proactiveness, and sustainable development. The study underscores the necessity for SMEs to enhance marketing practices to ensure long‐term viability and competitiveness. It highlights stakeholder engagement: policymakers, local communities, and consumers as critical for aligning marketing efforts with sustainability goals. This engagement not only meets consumer expectations for ethically driven businesses but also enhances inclusive growth and community welfare. By promoting dialogue among stakeholders, SMEs drive sustainable development initiatives and advocate for policies supporting environmentally and socially responsible practices, contributing to a greener, socially conscious economy. Future research should explore mediating or moderating variables across different SME types and regions. This study's novelty lies in its insights into how EMP impact SME sustainable development within Ethiopia, offering valuable insights for strategic decision‐making and highlighting the pivotal role of entrepreneurial marketing (EM) in achieving long‐term success in dynamic markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the influence of green innovation and technology in both products and processes on the performance of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand. Additionally, it explores the impact of firm size and sustainability readiness on SME performance and examines the moderating and mediating effects of these factors on the relationship between innovation and firm performance. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed as the methodological approach, utilizing a sample of 421 SMEs in Thailand. The findings reveal that green innovation and sustainability readiness significantly contribute to SME performance. Sustainability readiness is identified as a mediator, underscoring its significant role in mediating the relationship between green innovation and firm performance. Furthermore, firm size is confirmed as a moderator, indicating that the influence of green innovation on firm performance is contingent upon the firm's size. These findings have significant implications for SMEs, providing valuable insights into strategic investments in sustainability readiness and green innovation as avenues for enhancing performance and competitiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study examined the impact of smart manufacturing (SM) systems on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Indian context. For this, we used the theory of change framework to investigate the intervention and impact of SM implementation. Through a literature survey, eight impact aspects were identified with two additional moderators. In addition, 452 responses from 80 SMEs were collected, and structural equation modelling was employed. The collected data were used to test 22 hypotheses based on the association of the implementation of the SM system and organisational resilience, industry ecosystem, innovation, sustainability, supply chain and urbanisation. It also evaluated the impact of these aspects on the Growth of Indian economy (GIE), along with analysing the moderating roles of Government Support and Enabling Technology. The novelty of this work lies in providing a comprehensive assessment approach to the impact of SM system implementation in Indian SMEs. The study finds that technologies play a significant role in advancing the Indian economy, with the impacts evaluated mostly being positive. Negative implications are also discussed, making this study a valuable resource for government officials and policymakers to make informed decisions by understanding the potential impacts post-implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research provides the first deep and empirical look into Brazil's increasing equity crowdfunding, or crowdinvest, market, and examines its peculiarities. It is a pioneering work dedicated to understanding which characteristics most impact the success of offers in the country, and whether there is any representative movement pointing to the inclusion of gender, firm age, and location or participation of small investors. We employ descriptive and quantitative research techniques and analyses all the offerings derived through this mechanism from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2020—totaling 234 operations, considering successful offers (the ones that received investment) and unsuccessful offers (those that failed in raising funds), registered by 24 platforms in the country according to CVM (Comissão de Valores Mobiliários), the Brazilian SEC, under regulation Instruction 588. Furthermore, we use empirical and publicly available data from several sources. The findings reveal that mutual offers are more attractive to investors than those of equity, impacting the dependent variable of success. Besides this, firm location is the only inclusion aspect with representativeness among the independent variables tested. The main contributions of the research lie in providing the first empirical study that (1) consolidates a consistent database of the equity crowdfunding industry in Brazil, (2) reveals the role of crowdinvest in Brazil, related to bank credit to SMEs, and (3) provides recommendations to the main stakeholders that can improve the whole ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even with proven benefits of engaging in sustainability, and stakeholder and regulatory pressure to do so, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seldom adopt environmental practices beyond those required. To investigate why some SMEs adopt environmental practices while others do not, we studied the proactive orientation–environmental practices link and the moderation of regulatory pressure on this relationship. Based on a survey of 286 SMEs in the wine industry in Italy, France, Denmark, and the United States, we tested our model using regression analysis. We found support for our hypotheses on the positive proactive orientation-environmental practices link and the enhancing role of regulatory pressure. We conducted further supplementary exploratory analyses to examine these relationships among different types of environmental practices. The findings from our study offer new research directions regarding the nuanced roles of proactive orientation and regulatory pressure in motivating SMEs to adopt more environmental practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the relationship between employment growth and profitability and propose that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) hire employees, they experience an increase in profitability due to their acquisition of additional human capital. These benefits, however, are limited by the firm's ability to efficiently integrate the newly recruited employees and adjust its internal managerial practices and organization accordingly. Using a large sample of SMEs in the European Union, we examined the relationship between employment growth and profitability as a quadratic function with an inverted U shape. The empirical results strongly supported our prediction as we observed that profitability decreased when SMEs exceeded a 100% growth rate in employment. Importantly, we observed strong homogeneity in our results across various industries. This paper empirically documents the 'maximum' speed at which firms should grow and highlights the homogeneity of this result across industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Green, lean and six sigma (GLSS) practices are widely used and well accepted techniques that have the capability to improve the economic, social and environmental performance of Pakistani small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, implementation of these practices in an integrated approach has not yet been witnessed in Pakistani SMEs due to a variety of challenges. To overcome the implementation challenges, this study has analyzed the impact of GLSS implementation over the sustainability in Pakistani SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: This study consists of two phases. In phase 1, interviews were conducted to scrutinize the elements of GLSS implementation to simplify the model and in phase 2, a questionnaire survey was conducted to collect the data from the SMEs. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach is used to analyze the relationships among the latent variables and constructs. Findings: Results showed that, leadership for GLSS, understanding GLSS techniques and technology upgradation are considered the most important elements for GLSS implementation in Pakistani SMEs. The environmental and social perspectives have been given more weightage compared to economical perspective. This inferred that there is a need to focus more on environmental and social perspectives in SMEs as compared to economic perspectives to achieve sustainable growth. Moreover, the results of the hypothesis testing revealed that GLSS implementation has a significant positive impact over the sustainability in SMEs considering the Pakistani scenario (β = 0.529, STDEV = 0.078, t = 6.81, p = < 0.001). Originality/value: This study is the first of its kind for Pakistani SMEs. The structural model developed in this study for Pakistani SMEs will help practitioners to understand the important elements of GLSS implementation and sustainability dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to provide an integrative picture of the state of the art of the literature on digitalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as an enabler for their internationalisation process and as a comprehensive view of the specific domains impacted by digital technologies as well as their repercussions on the international outreach. Design/methodology/approach: A systematic review which leverages a descriptive analysis of extant literature and an axial coding technique has been conducted to shed light on the current knowledge and to identify primary research areas and future research lines. Findings: The research indicates that digitalisation impacts the internationalisation of SMEs in three specific domains: (1) internationalisation through the adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT) technologies and e-commerce platforms; (2) international expansion through the digitalisation of value chain activities and (3) international outreach through knowledge acquisition on digital platforms. Originality/value: The value of this study is threefold. First, the authors attempt to systematically review the literature on SMEs digitalisation and internationalisation and provide a holistic perspective on the intertwining of these two research streams. Second, the authors propose a novel conceptualisation on the dimensions of SMEs digitalisation as enablers to internationalisation. Third, the authors put forward promising future lines of research. Highlights: Digitalisation represents a pivotal strategy that allows companies to build new strategic capabilities and is a propeller for SMEs internationalisation. Through e-commerce, SMEs could compete at the same level of multinational companies but enduring lower costs of expansion. Digital platforms allow SMEs to enhance the learning processes about international markets through an immediate access to relevant information. Digital entrepreneurship has enabled SMEs to develop new configurations of value chain activities, evolving their business model or reaching new markets. SMEs are changing the "business as usual" paradigm offering digital tools to build modular architectures that are scalable and agile in their evolution ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Digital technologies over time are becoming increasingly pervasive and relatively affordable, finding a large diffusion in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) also for internationalization purposes. However, less is known about the specific mechanisms by which this can be achieved. Specifically, we focus on how SMEs can face the international environment, leveraging digital technologies and thanks to their intellectual capital (IC). Design/methodology/approach: We analyze the relationship between digital technologies and the internationalization of SMEs, exploring the mediating role of IC in its three dimensions: human, relational and innovation capital, and assessing the possible moderating effects posed by international institutional conditions, specifically the Sino-US trade frictions. The relationships are tested using a sample of companies listed on China's A-share Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) from 2010 to 2021. Findings: Digital technologies help to internationalize SMEs. However, this positive relationship is affected (mediated) by the presence of an already consolidated IC. In addition, the institutional conditions of the international market, such as the Sino-US trade friction, moderate the components of IC differently. Specifically, the overall mediating effect of human and relational capital is boosted, while this does not happen for innovation capital. Originality/value: First, this study contributes to the literature on organizational resilience, especially digital resilience, confirming its validity in the context of internationalization and, in particular, those processes adopted by SMEs. Second, we clarify the mechanisms through which digital technologies exert their impact on the process of internationalization and in particular the prominent necessity of having IC. Third, our conclusions enrich the understanding of how IC components react to turbulence in international markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study has two main objectives. First, to examine the indirect effects of digital platform capability and digital resilience on digital transformation (DT) outcomes for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and second, to investigate how digital business model maturity influences these indirect effects. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopts a quantitative design and collects data through a self-reporting survey from individuals in the technological industries. The Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) and PLS multi-group analysis examine the measurement and structural models and the significance of differences in indirect paths based on the digital business model maturity level, serving as a moderator. Findings: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the internationalisation of digital SMEs. They indicate that digital platform capability and resilience fully mediate, connecting digital resources to SME growth. The study also confirms the digital business model maturity's positive and significant moderating effect on these indirect relationships. Originality/value: This research contributes to the existing literature by focusing on the international outcomes of platform ecosystems in developing markets. It explores how digital platform capability and resilience support the digital transformation of SMEs, considering their vulnerability due to their small size. The study also fills a research gap by investigating the relationship between big data, digital leadership and the international growth of digital platforms. Lastly, it explores the role of digital maturity in the relationships between antecedents, determinants and outcomes of digitalisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to explore the key challenges and drawbacks of smart contracts (SCs) and how they impact digital resilience within small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Whilst this type of technology is seen as a step forward in terms of traceability, transparency and immutability to increase digital resilience, we argue that it should be approached with trepidation. Design/methodology/approach: In developing this paper, the authors conduct a systematic literature search using the Scopus database. Through this, we identified 931 relevant articles, of which 30 were used as the focus of this article. Thematic analysis was used as the analytical approach to develop themes and meaning from the data. Findings: In this paper, there is an emphasis on the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with SC implementation, as well as identifying appropriate strategies for mitigating any negative impact. In our findings, we puts forward three key themes, namely legality, security and human error, which we argue are key smart contract challenges that impact SME digital resilience. Originality/value: In this paper, we propose the notion of "centralised control in decentralised solutions". This comes from the research highlighting SC weaknesses in digital resilience for SMEs. We argue that there is a need for standards, regulations and legislation to address these issues, advocating, ironically, a centralised approach to decentralised technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) significantly contribute to economic growth, development, exports and employment of the nations. To maintain competitiveness in today's market, SMEs must explore and identify enablers to enhance their digital transformation process. This paper aims to shed light on some essential enablers SMEs can use to implement digital resilience successfully. Design/methodology/approach: The quantitative assessment and validation of the enablers have been done using powerful and novel techniques, namely, the Delphi method, "fuzzy interpretive structural modelling" (F-ISM) method and "cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC)" analysis. The F-ISM model is developed using the information drawn from digital transformation experts and practitioners involved in the digital transformation process for SMEs. Furthermore, the F-ISM model provides four paths to complete the pathway to digital resilience. Findings: The F-ISM and MICMAC analysis revealed four ways to enhance the digital transformation process in SMEs. These enterprises can utilise these path assessments to become digitally resilient in the present dynamic scenario. To enhance digital resilience among SMEs, the study identified ten enablers. Among these, "management competencies" was the most crucial, followed by "knowledge management" and "monitoring and controlling". Research limitations/implications: The present study is limited in that the data used to develop the models were collected from a small group of industry experts whose opinions may not exhibit the comprehensive views of the population. Practical implications: The findings can help SMEs enhance the digital transformation process by taking up different pathways to integrate the various enablers of digital resilience depending on resource availability. Originality/value: The results indicate the most critical and influential enablers for enhancing digital resilience among SMEs. This research can be valuable to academicians, industry practitioners and researchers for guiding their future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to present a comprehensive assessment of the literature about the research agenda for future studies on risk management in small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with a research agenda for bibliometric analysis. The author's goals are to point out inconsistencies and gaps in the literature and to suggest directions for future study. Design/methodology/approach: A total of 147 papers were analyzed in terms of bibliographic information, research design, and findings. These included publication by year, most cited documents, citation by year, publication by authors, publication by subject area, publication by country, publication by affiliation, funding sponsor, network representation of keyword co-occurrence, and cluster visualization of keyword co-occurrence. This study used bibliometric analysis methods, keyword searches, and suitability assessment for bibliometric analysis. Findings: The bibliometric research revealed a number of potential risk categories for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). In addition, an analysis of the risk-related elements aimed to avoid or reduce their adverse effects, the published study highlights how crucial a risk management procedure is for SMEs. Risk factors were also shown to be unavoidable; as a result, everyone needs to practice social responsibility in order to reduce the detrimental effects on the economy. Research limitations/implications: Future studies are required on risk identification, analysis, plan implementation, and control in the context of small and medium-sized enterprise risk management. Originality/value: This work represents the first in a bibliometric analysis of risk management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the future research agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This current research focuses on developing and testing a measurement model of website quality for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). This study applied Hinkin's scale development process and involved 802 respondents in Indonesia through two successive data collection phases. The model development confirmed the SMEs-WebQ model as a robust measurement of SMEs' website quality, containing 15 items across three dimensions: system quality, information quality, and service readiness. The replication study confirmed a gratifying nomological validity of the SMEs-WebQ model, whereby the three dimensions of the SMEs-WebQ model have significant positive effects (through brand awareness) on consumers' purchase intention. This study theoretically contributes to the website quality literature and adds to the debate over the theoretical applicability of the present study's underpinning theories (stimulus-organism-response and flow experience) in understanding online purchase intention. Practically, this study provides managerial recommendations to SMEs' managers looking to improve their websites while ameliorating their competitiveness in the digital business era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]