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We consider a supplier selling substituted products to an e‐retailer through wholesale selling mode or mixed use of wholesale and agency selling mode (hybrid contracts). This paper explains the curious failure of the agency model and investigates the contract selection problem. We build the stylized models that consider consumer formats preferences and distribution sequence. We find that an excessively high agency fee can lead to failure but this is on the condition of substituted products simultaneously distributed. However, we find no failure phenomenon in sequential distribution scenarios. Because it is optimal to mark down the price of the delayed product that prevents inefficiency with a lower price in the agency model than in the wholesale model. Furthermore, in the e‐books industry, when consumers prefer digital (traditional) formats, the equilibrium strategy is that the e‐retailer claims a low agency fee, and the supplier chooses simultaneous (sequential) distribution through hybrid contracts. Besides, the equilibrium is robust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital revolution has significantly transformed the landscape of financial inclusion, leading to substantial advancements in this field. This study aims to analyse Egypt's endeavours in leveraging digital financial services as a catalyst for enhancing financial inclusion, utilizing a descriptive analytical approach to scrutinize secondary data from the Central Bank of Egypt, the global data findex concerning financial inclusion rates and the growth of digital financial inclusion in Egypt from 2011 to 2022. It provides an overview of the current state of financial inclusion, the impact of digital financial products, and Egypt's initiatives toward financial inclusivity. Findings indicate significant progress in financial inclusion over the years facilitated by digital financial services, marked by an increase in account ownership and the proliferation of cashless payment systems such as InstaPay and Fawry. However, The implementation of targeted strategies are critical to address knowledge gaps and build trust in digital financial services among the underserved populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gharee for Economics & Administration Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) 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.)

Purpose: This paper aims to reveal the influence of the presentation of online product information (POPI) on consumer attitudes in the context of online buying digital products. Design/methodology/approach: Two main experimental designs are used to collect data. The ANOVA, t-test and Bootstrap methods are applied to check hypotheses. Findings: Findings of Study 1 indicate that if the POPI is combined with different types of celebrity endorsement (CE) (real vs virtual), the self-brand connection will be changed and further influence consumer attitudes toward digital products. Study 2 verifies the diverse moderating effects of the type of virtual CE. The CRP (central-route presentation) online product information with SVCE (super-realistic-digital virtual CE) can decrease consumer attitudes, while the PRP (peripheral-route presentation) online product information with AVCE (anthropomorphic virtual CE) can enhance consumer attitudes. Practical implications: E-commerce enterprises should optimize the current layout of POPI by considering diverse matchings between POPI and CE to increase consumer attitudes. Moreover, marketers could make various schemes of POPI considering (virtual) CE and self-brand connection. Originality/value: Findings contribute to understanding the relationship between POPI and consumer attitudes considering the mediation of self-brand connection and the mediations of virtual/real CE. Additionally, this study bridges the gap between research on virtual CE and business practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to analyze the legal obligations to update digital products within the context of contracts for the supply of digital content and digital services. Through a legal analysis of the provisions of the German Civil Code relevant to this obligation, the study explores the specificities that make this requirement distinctive for digital products. The research methodology includes a qualitative analysis of legal texts and relevant literature to identify key elements and challenges in the implementation of the obligation to update. The findings reveal that suppliers are legally obliged to provide updates for digital products even when such an obligation is not explicitly stipulated in the contract. This research contributes to a better understanding of the legal aspects of updating digital products and provides a foundation for future legislative initiatives and practical guidelines for suppliers.

User experience (UX) is crucial to modern-day digital products and services. A UX audit evaluates the UX of an application, website, or digital product by analyzing user data, conducting heuristic evaluations, and identifying areas for improvement. This review paper aims to outline UX audits, including their benefits, key components, and steps involved in the process. The research also discusses the importance of using empirical data in UX audits and how to measure the success of a UX audit. Additionally, the paper highlights UX auditors’ challenges and provides recommendations for overcoming them.

Digitalization has begun as a transformative force within the energy sector, reforming traditional practices and paving the way for enhanced operational efficiency and sustainability. Enabled by key technologies such as smart meters, digitalization embodies a paradigm shift in energy management. Nonetheless, it is crucial to recognize that these enabling technologies are only the catalysts and not the end goal. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of digital services and products in the energy sector, with a specific focus on emerging technologies like AI and Connected Data Spaces. The objective of this review paper is to assess the maturity and adoption levels of these digital solutions, seeking to draw insights into the factors influencing their varying levels of success. This maturity and adoption assessment was carried out by applying a Fuzzy logic approach which allowed us to compensate for the lack of detailed information in current literature. By analyzing the reasons behind high maturity-low adoption and vice-versa, this study seeks to cast light on the dynamics shaping the digital transformation of the energy sector.

The paper is an integral part of the project "Research on the use of digital products in the Georgian tourism sector" which won the internal grant projects competition of Grigol Robakidze University. The use of digital products plays an important role in the tourism industry and is a big challenge for a country like Georgia. The need for transformation is particularly important in the field of tourism, where most processes are automated and tailored to the needs and requirements of the customer and/or service provider. The given article aims to overview the digital products that are used by the tourist agencies and hotels in Adjara region of Georgia, to identify international technologies that are spread among the Adjarian hospitality stakeholders and whether Georgian digital products are used or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the defining characteristics of modern trade in recent decades is the general modernization of the way trade is perceived, in the shaping of which a significant role was played by digital trade, which is certainly unimaginable without digital products. Considering the role that digital products play in modern trading, business and life, it is of crucial importance to understand what digital products are, only after that is it possible to credibly talk about classification and ultimately about dealing with them. Given that the scope and reach of digital products is on a scale that was before unimaginable, as the most egregious examples of dealing with them on a wide scale, we will contemplate those of the EU and USA as well as certain other relevant and interesting examples. When it comes to specific dealing with digital products in the sense of this discourse, the decision regarding which legal framework will govern the trading thereof is crucial. Prior to this step, the digital product in question needs to be qualified, keeping this in mind, relevant provisions of GATT and GATS will be considered, which regulate trade in goods and services, that will further determine all the fundamentals and ultimately the profitability of the product itself. Many elements could be characterized as having a role in determining the legal framework that will be used, but the method of delivery as well as the very nature of the product are simply indispensable in any serious discussion about digital products. Finally, in order to complete this overview, digital content is considered, i.e. it's role in relation to digital products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Information Library Magazine 'INFOLIB' is the property of National Library of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Technology Economics is the property of Chinese Society of Technology Economics 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 Internet users grows, the increase in smart devices interconnected through the Internet of Things (IoT) have contributed to improvements in the functionality of everyday products and enhancement of user experience. Yet, they affect user privacy and render personal data more vulnerable. To foster a digital future fully aware of user privacy requirements, a line of design research emerges that focuses on balancing product innovation with user data protection. This matter relates to sociocultural, economic, and technological aspects, and its core is a human-centered design strategy. Still, there is a gap in academic research oriented towards guiding product developers on how to consider personal data privacy concerns when designing honest IoT devices. To define this gap and delve deeper into this relevant topic, this paper presents a systematic literature review of recent academic research using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method. This review focuses on prevalent research topics such as data privacy, personal data, data surveillance, and user behaviour in IoT. The result is a state-of-the-art compilation of 45 scientific studies mapping the most relevant concepts and approaches for product development in the last ten years of research, aligned with some central research questions. The Discussion and Conclusion sections provide a deep understanding of the complexity of the fast-changing landscape of privacy and personal data management using IoT products. Finally, this study proposes future academic research directions devoted to providing product designer specific, specialised help from different (yet interconnected) scientific approaches.

The scientific novelty of the study consists in identifying necessary mechanisms for sustainable development of industrial enterprises. Nowadays the industry have set to create balanced growth to solve modern global challenges. It also takes measures to ensure energy security and maintains stable flows of finance and capital with stability of investment activity. The purpose of the study is to determine the formation of mechanisms for the sustainable development of industrial enterprises. Based on the results, a special System of management has been created by redesigning the process of implementing an investment project. Its boundaries can be extended to manage the full life cycle of an investment project from an idea to summarizing the project in terms of its payback and other performance indicators.

One of the basic values of the modern state is the orientation of all its services towards meeting people’s needs. Client-centricity was included in the list of 42 initiatives for socio-economic development of Russia until 2030, approved by the Russian Government in 2021. Information-driven interactions between state bodies and the use of up-to-date reliable information published, inter alia, in an open data format will allow to increase the effectiveness of the public administration system. The purpose of the article is to assess the goals, objectives, and basic technologies of the digital transformation of public and municipal administration. In accordance with the purpose identified, the objectives of the study are as follows: to substantiate the need for digital transformation in public administration, identify the strategic direction of such transformation, and reveal its limitations and advantages. The results of the study include an overview and analysis of certain digital services and products used at the federal and regional levels as part of the digital transformation of public administration. The main conclusion of the article is the substantiation of the role that the digital transformation plays in improving the quality of public and municipal services.

As traditional product companies move to offer digital products and services, they need new patent strategies. A shift to include both freedom-to-operate and freedom-of-action IP strategies will enable them to cost-effectively create a competitively advantaged position for both their core hardware and new digital/software business lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The primary objective of the article is to explore the ethical challenges and limitations associated with the use of big data in business analytics. It aims to identify and analyze the key ethical issues, providing insights into the implications of using large datasets for business analysis. The article considers the multifaceted aspects of ethics in big data applications and emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions. Results. The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the ethical problems related to big data implementation in business analytics. It discusses the existing challenges, categorizes them into distinct types, and offers a subtle understanding of each. The results highlight the importance of addressing ethical concerns to ensure the responsible use of big data in the business sphere. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the article lies in its in-depth examination of the ethical issues surrounding big data in the context of business analytics. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge by categorizing ethical challenges and proposing a set of potential solutions. The article integrates perspectives from diverse fields, offering a holistic view of the ethical implications, thereby advancing the scientific understanding of this critical subject. Practical value. The article provides practical insights for businesses, regulatory bodies, and researchers involved in the implementation of big data analytics. By identifying ethical issues and proposing solutions, it offers actionable recommendations for developing ethical standards and norms. The practical value lies in guiding stakeholders to navigate the ethical landscape of big data, promoting responsible practices, and ensuring the protection of privacy and integrity in business analytics.

Copyright of Proceedings of the Faculty of Economics & Business in Zagreb / Zbornik Ekonomskog Fakulteta u Zagrebu is the property of Ekonomski Fakultet u Zagrebu 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.)

Recent events concerning the Kaspersky anti-virus software in the UK and the Android operating system in the US have highlighted the significance of the domesticity of digital products for national cybersecurity, and the importance of establishing the origin of digital products has been further brought into focus by the war in Ukraine and China's military activities around Taiwan. Digital products can contain hardware components, software elements, embedded systems, and data, and determining the country of origin (COO) in these circumstances is problematic. The aim of this research, and its main contribution, is to provide an operational framework for the application of the COO concept to address this problem. Using an inductive research methodology based on semi-structured interviews and an online survey, a 19-parameter framework for assessing the COO of digital products is developed and then applied to the case example of a mobile phone import in Turkey. This article concludes that new processes and policies are urgently required to enhance the cyber and information security for digital products, aid domestic digital technology production, and support the transition to recyclable technologies. Such developments are of significance not only for western nations concerned with data and security issues, but also for developing world countries trying to develop their own domestic digital product manufacturing capabilities. This is also of relevance to the computer end-user, who would benefit from greater clarity on the origin of digital products ahead of a purchase decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers the process of digitalisation of the nuclear industry on the example of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom and foreign companies. The purpose of the study is to identify the digital competitive advantages of Rosatom and analyse global competitors. The main prospects and trends in the development of the state corporation have been identified. The article describes the problems faced by the process of digitisation of the industry. The current digital products of Rosatom and its developments have been considered. The positive effects of the Lean Smart Plant project, the introduction of electronic document management have been described. The process of digital transformation includes the introduction of artificial intelligence, a digital twin, the Internet of things, which also changes the methodology of enterprise management and production, the infrastructure sector, high-tech modeling, automation of design and construction. It is stated that digital transformation has a multiplicative effect. The complex use of digital technologies and platforms allows you to reduce logistics costs, increase labor productivity, reduce the level of labor intensity of production and increase KPI. The main conclusions of this article are that there are a number of problems on the way of implementing digitalisation in the nuclear industry that should be overcome using current, modern, including foreign digital services that can positively affect changes due to transformational digital shifts.

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to explore consumer decision-making styles when buying digital products, and to identify different clusters of consumers based on their approaches in choosing digital products. The literature regarding consumer decision-making styles when purchasing digital products is rather scarce. Therefore, a research study on behavioral patterns and product attributes important to consumers when they purchase digital goods might contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of this type of consumer behavior while also broadening the existing body of knowledge. Design/Methodology/Approach – Empirical data were collected using an online questionnaire consisting of items borrowed from the relevant literature and adapted to the research context. Research results are presented using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, and k-means cluster analysis. Findings and implications – This study has revealed four distinct consumer groups that differ in their consumer decision-making styles when buying digital products. Both theoretical and managerial implications of the research findings are discussed. Results of this research serve as helpful insights into consumer behavior characteristics in a digital products market, providing digital goods companies with valuable inputs for planning their marketing strategies and activities. Limitations – The results of the present research apply to digital products in general. Future research should develop and confirm these initial findings further by incorporating specific digital product categories and focusing on other socio-cultural contexts. Originality – By identifying six consumer decision-making styles and four distinct clusters, this study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of consumer approaches when buying digital products, thereby broadening the existing theoretical knowledge of consumer decision-making styles.

This study aims to examine if the pricing strategy "Pay What You Want" can be the best option for the industry of digital products' distribution, when compared with other fixed prices policies. To verify the adequacy of Pay What You Want Pricing strategy, we conducted an online survey using a sample of online consumers, to evaluate their buying intention and the willingness to pay regarding a set of digital products. Results show that, in some instances, the Pay What You Want Pricing strategy yields a greater sales revenue through the reduction of the individual amounts paid, which is counter-balanced by the increasing number of transactions. We conclude that this pricing strategy is as much suitable for companies, as they may potentially increase their sales revenue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterizing the demand curve of products is important for pricing them optimally. However, in deriving empirical demand curves, econometricians have to contend with identification issues. Furthermore, theoretical demand curves derived using standard economic theory are divorced from empirical realities: firms rarely have information on customers’ budget constraints; theoretical utility functions are seldom derived empirically. Recognizing these issues, we propose an experimental approach for determining a product’s demand curve and, in turn, its profit-maximizing price in online environments. The proposed approach yields precise estimates and is quick and inexpensive to implement.

Climate change is an existential threat to biodiversity and people, but building political will for action on climate change remains elusive. Research on climate change communications to increase effectiveness at motivating action include these recommendations: pairing risk and opportunity in message framing, localizing information, and appealing to a sense of place. Here, we present a case study on mobilizing bird enthusiasts to take action on climate change. The science communicated found that over two-thirds of North American birds are moderately or highly vulnerable to climate change under a 3.0°C warming scenario. Of these climate-vulnerable species, 76% would have reduced vulnerability if warming were stabilized at 1.5°C. These findings were summarized and communicated with the public in an award-winning interactive website, the “Birds and Climate Visualizer,” that allowed individuals to look up any location by postal ZIP code and learn what birds would be impacted by climate. Also included was a Climate Action Handbook providing sample personal actions. The communications rollout earned 2.5 billion media impressions, the visualizer has been used at least 42,000 times, and handbook circulated to 250,000 households. More than 33,000 people read headlines from the report or explored the visualizer and then completed an online action in support of clean energy policies. The message frame combined with the visualizer and handbook as tools to deliver the frame have contributed to climate legislative wins in four states. These early successes suggest that message and visual online tools that localize and personalize a message are effective to motivate action.

Servitization refers to firms that sell an “outcome-as-a-service”, rather than just a physical product. In this study, we first examine how servitization has enabled companies such as Netflix to disrupt industries and transition from offering finite products to delivering relatively abundant services? Second, as firms embark upon servitization, value propositions become much less related to scarcity. This leads to the second research question: what are the value propositions for consumers when the paradigm shifts from ownership to usership? For both these questions, we highlight examples such as Netflix, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Philips to emphasize on value propositions for the consumer as enhanced customer experience through customization, convenience, and co-creation. Further, we expand on the considerations warranted that include the role of technology, data, and analytics, distribution models for physical versus digital products, and challenges in creating servitization in business models.

In modern conditions, the rapid development of digital technologies in the twenty-first century against the backdrop of large-scale globalization has served as the basis for the digital economy and the transformation of the role of information into the main resource of activity. The latest technologies allow increasing the efficiency of production and business processes. In this regard, the article discusses the theoretical foundations, stages, efficiency factors of digitalization and the digital economy. The concept, essence, prerequisites and features of the manifestation of the digital economy are disclosed, its positive effects are identified, and the main directions of development are outlined. The key components of the term "digital economy" are presented and the possibilities and limitations of its development are analyzed. The prospects and advantages of the digital economy, innovative trends of the modern economy in the form of digital technologies and digital products and services are studied. The role of the digital economy as a new development paradigm is substantiated. The goals and targets of the digital economy are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This case study examines the new product development (NPD) process of digital information products (DIPs) and its critical success factors (CSFs) in a small-sized German enterprise. Design/methodology/approach – A case study was conducted with a small firm focused on the development of DIPs; data were obtained through semi-structured interviews, direct observation and document analysis. Findings – The firm uses an informal and cross-functional NPD process (idea generation, idea validation, product creation and product launch) in converting an idea into a sellable product. Peculiar aspects of each stage within the process as well as ten CSFs to NPD projects were verified. Research limitations/implications – Limitations are attributed to its qualitative nature, which does not allow generalizations, though careful attention was given to validity and reliability issues through the use of data source triangulation. Practical implications – The paper provides a conceptual process that may benefit further initiatives for developing and launching DIPs, as well as a comprehensive list of CSFs for such projects. Originality/value – This paper is the first one to schematize the NPD process and practices for DIPs, as well as key capabilities. It contributes to the NPD literature in discussing dynamic aspects that are typical to the firm analyzed and to others operating in a digital context. At the same time, it reinforces other traditional aspects that have become overlooked in digital business debates.

The economy is changing dramatically under the influence of emerging markets, accelerated growth of new technologies, sustainable development policies and changing consumer preferences. New business models are emerging in many sectors of the economy and production. The automotive industry and the transport sector are no exception. New trends and a more personal approach to the consumer, digital products and services require a rethink of marketing activities in the automotive industry. Automakers are entering into partnerships with technology companies to increase customer loyalty and expand their list of familiar scenarios and ways of using transport.A mobility ecosystem is being formed all over the world. And this ecosystem is more than just “Automotive Industry 2.0”. To become a leader in the new landscape, you will need to fight with a large number of new players, many of whom do not have the traditional automotive experience and integration of various capabilities. It will be important for traditional automakers and suppliers, as well as new entrants, to adopt an ecosystem mindset.As digital technologies change the traditional boundaries of the industry, many are betting that the automotive ecosystem will be one of the first to develop. But what this will look like in practice, and when a drastic shift in competition will actually, occur can only be cautiously predicted so far.

Copyright of Journal of Technology Economics is the property of Chinese Society of Technology Economics 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.)

Recent years have seen an increase in goods-related services. Such services range from conventional maintenance contracts sold with goods, to database and data processing services as necessary parts of the Internet of Things. Indeed, the Internet of Things has increasingly blurred the distinction between goods and services insofar as the latter enable essential functions of the goods. Services such as production related research and development (R&D) are also making an increasingly significant contribution to the final value of goods. On the other hand, the World Trade Organization (WTO) regulates the cross-border trade in goods and services separately in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). Therefore, it is legitimate to ask if this approach is now outdated and a new mode of trade should be created. This paper provides some thoughts on these questions and is based on the author’s dissertation which comprehensively deals with this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Romanian Review of Private Law / Revista Română de Drept Privat is the property of Universul Juridic Publishing House 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Business & Projects / Revista de Gestão e Projetos is the property of Revista de Gestao e Projetos 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.)

Characterizing the demand curve of products is important for pricing them optimally. However, in deriving empirical demand curves, econometricians have to contend with identification issues. Furthermore, theoretical demand curves derived using standard economic theory are divorced from empirical realities: firms rarely have information on customers' budget constraints; theoretical utility functions are seldom derived empirically. Recognizing these issues, we propose an experimental approach for determining a product's demand curve and, in turn, its profit-maximizing price in online environments. The proposed approach yields precise estimates and is quick and inexpensive to implement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A salient characteristic of the current digital economy is the prevalence of digital products. It may be largely attributed to the rapid growth of digital media which grant users tremendous control over various digital content. However, a number of studies in consumer psychology reported that digital products may lead to reduced perceptions of control as the virtual format inhibits sense of ownership. Noticing this conflict in scholarship, this study examines to what extent consumers' need for control influences their responses to digital versus physical products in a common E-Commerce situation—viewing product advertisements on social media. The results indicated that consumers with high need for control evaluated digital products more positively than physical products and also preferred the advertisements featuring digital products. Moreover, these consumers were also willing to pay more for digital rather than physical products. Such results provided some preliminary evidence to indicate that the experience of using digital products may satisfy online shoppers' need for control. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]