JOINETECH (International Journal of Economic and Technological Studies) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal dedicated to fostering innovation and advancing scholarly and practical knowledge at the intersection of economics, business, and technology. The publication of an article in a scientific journal that employs a double-blind peer review system plays a crucial role in the dissemination of knowledge, fostering the progress of academic and scientific communities. The integrity of this process relies heavily on the thorough and unbiased evaluation of submitted manuscripts, which, in turn, contributes to the credibility and development of the research field. Therefore, ethical conduct is expected from all parties involved: authors, editors, and reviewers. This journal adheres to rigorous ethical standards, which are in line with the principles of COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics). All contributors to the peer review process are required to understand and accept these guidelines to ensure fairness, transparency, and academic rigor. Moreover, we comply with the "Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing," as outlined by the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).
Real options and strategic investment decisions under uncertainty in an SME expansion project in Ecuador
This study evaluates the financial and strategic viability of expanding a gastronomic business through the opening of a new branch in Quito, Ecuador, under conditions of uncertainty. Traditional investment appraisal methods, such as Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), are combined with a real options approach to provide a more comprehensive evaluation framework. While conventional techniques offer a static perspective of expected cash flows, they fail to capture the value of managerial flexibility in dynamic and uncertain environments. To address this limitation, the Black-Scholes model is applied to estimate the value of strategic flexibility associated with the investment decision. The results indicate that the project is financially viable, with a positive NPV and a high IRR. Additionally, the real options valuation reveals a significant strategic premium, reflecting the value of flexibility in adapting to market conditions. The findings highlight that incorporating real options into investment analysis enhances decision-making by capturing uncertainty and strategic adaptability. This approach is particularly relevant for sectors such as the gastronomic industry, where market volatility and external risks play a critical role. The study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the practical application of advanced financial methodologies in emerging market contexts and supports more resilient and informed investment decisions.
Copyright (c) 2026 JOINETECH provides immediate free access to its content, with the conviction that making this information available to the public favors a greater global knowledge exchange. In this sense, the journal follows the DOAJ definition of open access: "We define them as journals in which the copyright holder of a scholarly work grants the rights of use to others using an open licence (Creative Commons or equivalent) that allows immediate free access to the work and permits any user to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search or link to the full text of articles, crawl them for indexing, pass them as data to software or use them for any other lawful purpose. JOINETECH adheres to different initiatives that promote free access to knowledge, such as Plan S of the cOAlition S, or the principles of the communication infrastructure for academic publication and open science AmeliCA, so all JOINETECH contents edited by UTAMED are from free and open access and are published under a Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0). Likewise, the journal provides information on the conditions of use and reuse of content (Creative Commons and Open Access). That is why the authors who publish in JOINETECH must accept the following conditions: - The authors retain the copyright, assigning to JOINETECH the right of the 1st publication, with the work registered with the Creative Commons attribution license (which allows third parties to use what is published as long as they mention the authorship of the work and the 1st publication in this journal). - Authors can make other independent and additional contractual agreements for the non-exclusive distribution of the version of the article published in JOINETECH (eg, publish it in a book or in an institutional repository) provided that it is clearly indicated that the work was published for the first time in JOINETECH. - Authors are allowed, and even recommended, to publish their work on the Internet (institutional, personal pages, social networks, etc.) since it can facilitate exchanges. - Authors are allowed, and even encouraged, to deposit supplementary material, at least the research data underlying publications, in institutional or thematic open access repositories federated in the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC)." https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Measuring Tourism Accommodation Efficiency under Environmental and Structural Constraints: A Multi‑Stage DEA–Malmquist Approach for the Valencian Community (Spain)
Tourism destinations face increasing pressure to remain competitive while adapting to growing environmental and structural constraints. This study develops an integrated framework to assess the efficiency and productivity of tourism accommodation systems across the Comunitat Valenciana (Spain), a mature Mediterranean region characterised by strong coastal concentration, urban diversification and structurally fragile inland areas. Using harmonised annual data for 2015–2023, the analysis combines input‑oriented DEA models with a meta‑frontier specification to capture technological heterogeneity across coastal, urban and inland municipalities. Environmental performance is incorporated through CO₂‑related undesirable outputs, and temporal dynamics are evaluated using the Malmquist Productivity Index, complemented by a second‑stage bootstrap regression that examines the influence of accessibility, tourism density and market composition. Results reveal pronounced territorial asymmetries. Coastal destinations such as Benidorm, Peñíscola and Alicante operate close to the global efficiency frontier (variable‑returns‑to‑scale scores ≈ 0.95–1.00), whereas inland municipalities remain constrained by scale limitations and weaker technological progress. The COVID‑19 shock generated a sharp productivity decline in 2020, followed by an uneven recovery in which coastal and urban destinations experienced faster technological improvements than inland areas. Environmental efficiency also exhibits a clear territorial divide, with high‑intensity coastal destinations facing proportionally higher CO₂ impacts. The study advances the literature by integrating environmental pressures and meta‑frontier modelling into a regional tourism efficiency framework, offering a replicable approach for destinations experiencing similar competitive and ecological challenges. The findings highlight the need for differentiated, place‑sensitive policies that strengthen inland connectivity, promote sustainable accommodation structures and support technological upgrading across the regional tourism system.
Copyright (c) 2026 JOINETECH provides immediate free access to its content, with the conviction that making this information available to the public favors a greater global knowledge exchange. In this sense, the journal follows the DOAJ definition of open access: "We define them as journals in which the copyright holder of a scholarly work grants the rights of use to others using an open licence (Creative Commons or equivalent) that allows immediate free access to the work and permits any user to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search or link to the full text of articles, crawl them for indexing, pass them as data to software or use them for any other lawful purpose. JOINETECH adheres to different initiatives that promote free access to knowledge, such as Plan S of the cOAlition S, or the principles of the communication infrastructure for academic publication and open science AmeliCA, so all JOINETECH contents edited by UTAMED are from free and open access and are published under a Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0). Likewise, the journal provides information on the conditions of use and reuse of content (Creative Commons and Open Access). That is why the authors who publish in JOINETECH must accept the following conditions: - The authors retain the copyright, assigning to JOINETECH the right of the 1st publication, with the work registered with the Creative Commons attribution license (which allows third parties to use what is published as long as they mention the authorship of the work and the 1st publication in this journal). - Authors can make other independent and additional contractual agreements for the non-exclusive distribution of the version of the article published in JOINETECH (eg, publish it in a book or in an institutional repository) provided that it is clearly indicated that the work was published for the first time in JOINETECH. - Authors are allowed, and even recommended, to publish their work on the Internet (institutional, personal pages, social networks, etc.) since it can facilitate exchanges. - Authors are allowed, and even encouraged, to deposit supplementary material, at least the research data underlying publications, in institutional or thematic open access repositories federated in the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC)."
The Implementation of Human-Centred Methodologies in Test-Driven Development: A Practical Example Through Value Sensitive Design and Design Thinking
Test-Driven Development is a software development approach that has become established within agile techniques. It enables the improvement of technical project performance by ensuring rapid feedback between testing and development. The literature on TDD has so far focused on the technical aspects of the process, neglecting those that are more human-centered. The aim of this study is to analyze whether and how Value Sensitive Design and Design Thinking can be used to improve Test-Driven Development, allowing the identification of users’ values and enhancing their creativity from the earliest stages of software testing. To this end, was developed Open Test 2.0 which is a digital platform designed to support Test-Driven Development while integrating the proposed methodologies. The platform includes several modules that allow testers to explore aspects related to values and creativity through tools such as communities and dedicated questionnaires. The results show that, even during testing activities, the user-tester can be involved not only as a validator of a platform’s usability features, but also as an active co-designer within the development process. It therefore emerges that Test-Driven Development can be supported by other methodologies, specifically, Value Sensitive Design and Design Thinking, which help fill some of its gaps.
Individual and situational factors in explaining student burnout. An extension of job demands-resources theory through a configurational analysis.
Burnout is a widespread problem among population, but it is particularly relevant in the university setting. Due to the nature of university activity, it can be highly demanding and generate burnout, which tends to increase as students’ progress through their university studies. Since student gender and participation in a service-learning activity can interact with the demands and resources perceived by the student in explaining the level of burnout, this study uses a model that complements job demands-resources theory with individual and situational factors. To this end, after calibrating the information contained in 103 interviews using a generic membership evaluation template, qualitative comparative analysis is applied. The results show the uneven explanation that implies that students experience high burnout, as opposed to the explanation that they do not reach such high burnout. In explaining the perception of high burnout, participation in service-learning activities is irrelevant. Participation in a service-learning activity is highly relevant in explaining the perception of not experiencing high burnout. The results confirm that female university students share a tendency to report higher levels of burnout. Finally, in most explanatory terms, individual and situational factors do not interact, and in many cases, demands are the only component of job demands-resources theory that forms part of the solution.
The State of Art on the Impact of University Education on the Social Economy and Social Entrepreneurship
This study explores the intersection between university education, the social economy, and social entrepreneurship by conducting a systematic analysis of international academic production. Using quantitative and network analysis techniques, the research identifies trends, influential authors, prominent journals, and emerging thematic clusters in the field. The results highlight the growing importance of social entrepreneurship education, particularly from the second decade of the 21st century onwards, and underline the strategic role of universities in developing ethical, technical, and social competencies aimed at social transformation. Educational innovation, digitalisation, and cross-sector collaboration emerge as key factors in enhancing training practices and aligning academic programs with the complex demands of contemporary society. The study offers a comprehensive and updated overview of the academic landscape, supporting the identification of new opportunities for collaboration and future research. Recent studies also highlight the growing incorporation of digital and AI-based tools in university training, suggesting that emerging technologies may further enhance innovation, collaboration, and the social impact of higher education.
Disruptive Crises, Institutional Pressures and Climate Action: Understanding Business Investment Decisions in Climate Technologies
Climate technologies aim to reduce CO2 emissions in order to mitigate the effects of global warming. In this paper, we analyse whether the disruptive events that we have been experiencing since 2020 (specifically, the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine) act as drivers of firms' investment in climate technologies, and whether the institutional environment of the European Union also does so. For a sample of 5,376 firms for the period 2016-2022, we find that firms' investment in climate technologies is higher in disruptive periods. Moreover, we observe that this effect is smaller than the driving effect of the EU institutional environment on firms' engagement in the fight against climate change and investment in climate technologies.
The role of accounting in the age of Artificial Intelligence: systematic review from 2020 to 2025
Over the last decade, the accounting function has evolved from a role focused on recording and compliance to that of a strategic partner to management. This systematic review of the literature from 2020 to 2025 explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is disrupting accounting by automating processes, generating predictive information and supporting decision-making. Five objectives are examined: (1) mapping the evolution of accounting within the company; (2) classifying AI applications according to technologies and processes; (3) assessing the impact of AI on the quality and use of accounting information; (4) analysing the relationship between accounting AI and value creation; and (5) identifying contingent factors and barriers. The results indicate that adopting AI enables accounting to free up time from routine tasks and to collaborate actively in the design of the business model. The technologies used range from machine learning and language processing to intelligent robotics, applied to automation, forecasting, and anomaly detection. AI improves the accuracy and timeliness of information, though it poses challenges in terms of explainability and governance. Value creation depends on the right combination of data, analytical capabilities and good governance. The review reveals barriers such as data quality, implementation costs and cultural resistance, and proposes a configurational framework linking AI, processes, information, management decisions and value creation.
Copyright (c) 2025 JOINETECH provides immediate free access to its content, with the conviction that making this information available to the public favors a greater global knowledge exchange. In this sense, the journal follows the DOAJ definition of open access: "We define them as journals in which the copyright holder of a scholarly work grants the rights of use to others using an open licence (Creative Commons or equivalent) that allows immediate free access to the work and permits any user to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search or link to the full text of articles, crawl them for indexing, pass them as data to software or use them for any other lawful purpose. JOINETECH adheres to different initiatives that promote free access to knowledge, such as Plan S of the cOAlition S, or the principles of the communication infrastructure for academic publication and open science AmeliCA, so all JOINETECH contents edited by UTAMED are from free and open access and are published under a Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0). Likewise, the journal provides information on the conditions of use and reuse of content (Creative Commons and Open Access). That is why the authors who publish in JOINETECH must accept the following conditions: - The authors retain the copyright, assigning to JOINETECH the right of the 1st publication, with the work registered with the Creative Commons attribution license (which allows third parties to use what is published as long as they mention the authorship of the work and the 1st publication in this journal). - Authors can make other independent and additional contractual agreements for the non-exclusive distribution of the version of the article published in JOINETECH (eg, publish it in a book or in an institutional repository) provided that it is clearly indicated that the work was published for the first time in JOINETECH. - Authors are allowed, and even recommended, to publish their work on the Internet (institutional, personal pages, social networks, etc.) since it can facilitate exchanges. - Authors are allowed, and even encouraged, to deposit supplementary material, at least the research data underlying publications, in institutional or thematic open access repositories federated in the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC)." https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Strategic–Financial Alignment in the Mining Industry Through Data-Driven Management
This study examines the strategic–financial alignment of a Peruvian mining company using a data-driven analytical approach. Through semi-structured interviews with industry experts and the application of structured impact and alignment matrices, the research evaluates how key organizational processes support strategic and financial objectives. Results indicate a high level of alignment, suggesting coherent integration of financial planning, risk management, operational efficiency, and sustainability objectives. The findings highlight the relevance of information-based management and technological tools, such as digital control systems, automated processes, and strategic dashboards, in strengthening decision-making, improving performance, and supporting innovation within the mining sector.
Assessment of the potential of tourist rentals through online platforms: a case study of Melilla
This study analyses the impact of recent public policies to promote tourism in Melilla and assesses the growth potential of the market for tourist rentals marketed through different digital platforms. A mixed methodology based on documentary analysis of institutional initiatives and empirical data from AirDNA was used. Specifically, it examines the evolution of supply, market performance, and the relative position of Melilla compared to other Spanish urban destinations. The results show that although holiday rentals in Melilla are still in their infancy, the city is highly attractive in terms of potential demand and market conditions (Market Score = 93), suggesting that there is significant room for growth in this holiday segment. At the same time, risks associated with pressure on the residential market and the need for forward planning to avoid the negative effects observed in other cities analysed in this research, such as gentrification or overtourism, are identified. The strategic dimensions of the STRATECMEL project were incorporated into the analysis, considering that it can support the competitiveness of the city's tourism. Potential factors such as digitalisation, the use of emerging technologies, and Melilla's special tax regime are highlighted. It concludes with a series of strategic recommendations aimed at a sustainable, regulated, and technologically advanced development of the city's digital tourism market.
Application of Agentive Artificial Intelligence and Retrieval-Augmented Generation for predictive Maintenance Operations
The advent of generative AI for the general public, and the fervor with which companies such as OpenAI, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Alibaba, and High-Flyer (DeepSeek), among others, are competing to develop powerful solutions for generating text, images, audio, and video, has revolutionized the methods of obtaining and processing information. Within this context of technological advancement, this rapid development contrasts with the challenges organizations face in harnessing this potential for the implementation of Industry 4.0 and its evolution towards Industry 5.0, with the aim of enhancing corporate performance and achieving significant differentiation from competitors. Furthermore, the impact on current organizational structures may be more profound than initially anticipated. As (Tomlinson et al., 2025) outline, the jobs with the highest applicability for AI are notably those involving knowledge and communication, such as roles in computer science, mathematics, sales, and administration. The adoption of such solutions can lead to employee apprehension regarding their implementation, consequently necessitating the reorganization and redefinition of corporate hierarchies. In light of this situation, (Anand and Wu, 2025) recommend prioritizing these solutions at a strategic level, as opposed to a more traditional operational approach focused merely on performing existing tasks more rapidly. This strategic focus aims to create a differentiation that fosters the development of a sustainable competitive advantage. In this vein, the automation of tasks is increasingly highlighting the use of Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG). When combined with Large Language Models (LLMs), RAG facilitates collaboration and mutual learning with operators in administrative duties. This document presents the latest developments in the integration of generative and agentive AI for predictive maintenance tasks. However, such solutions are characterized by their requirement for specialized personnel for implementation and support, as well as the significant financial resources necessary for their deployment and ongoing maintenance.
Towards Sustainable Management: Environmental and Operational Advantages of Quantum Computing over Classical HPC in the NISQ Era
The urgency to decarbonise digital infrastructure motivates the search for lower‑footprint computational methods in management analytics. This article evaluates, from sustainability and economic‑performance perspectives, the potential of near‑term quantum computing (NISQ) versus high‑performance classical architectures (HPC) for management tasks such as customer classification, resource allocation, and decision optimisation. We propose an evaluation framework that integrates: (i) model performance metrics (AUC, recall, precision), (ii) energy and carbon metrics (kWh, kgCO2e) per experiment and per unit of business utility, and (iii) scalability under wall‑clock and queue constraints. Using a hybrid pipeline that combines quantum kernels with feature extraction and SVM (Q‑SVM + QFE), we observe that, for recall‑first use cases (e.g., marketing), shallow‑depth circuits can maintain or improve sensitivity, enabling decisions with fewer false negatives. When classical training would be heavy (e.g., extensive hyperparameter sweeps, large kernel matrices), simulated quantum approaches or limited hardware runs can reduce total energy by requiring fewer retraining cycles and allowing ROC thresholding without retraining. We present a practical measurement protocol for modern HPC infrastructures (e.g., MareNostrum 5) and outline scenarios where an environmental quantum advantage is plausible, especially with forthcoming accelerated partitions and fidelity improvements. This comparison is theoretical, based on analytical models parameterised with literature‑backed ranges. We conclude with governance and ESG‑reporting recommendations and a research agenda to quantify “utility per kgCO2e” for data‑driven business decisions.
Driving Innovation through Organisational Dynamics in Public–Private Partnerships
This study explores how organisational attributes, such as seniority, workforce size, and thematic focus, shape innovative capacity and public funding outcomes for R&D&I projects under Spanish public–private partnership (PPP) frameworks. Drawing on organisational learning, infant industry, and public agenda theories, the analysis examines data from entities collaborating in R&D&I projects. Contrary to conventional assumptions, older organisations do not secure funding more frequently, although their accumulated expertise helps manage larger-scale, innovation-focused endeavours. Furthermore, while having a bigger workforce increases funding amounts, a past record of success in grant applications does not necessarily enhance outcomes, suggesting that each proposal’s innovative merit may be judged on its own terms. Surprisingly, proposals grounded in high-tech or social objectives attract similar funding levels, indicating that public agencies value diverse approaches to innovation that extend beyond technological paradigms. These findings underscore the complexity of advancing innovation in PPPs, highlighting the importance of organisational structure, thematic breadth, and strategic alignment with societal priorities. Implications for policymakers include fostering networks that blend social and technological innovations to address societal needs.
Perceptions of Generative AI among Higher Education Students: Utility, Risks, Cognitive Impact, and Training Needs
The massive irruption of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has marked an unprecedented turning point in the landscape of higher education. This technological phenomenon poses a structural challenge to traditional pedagogical models, compelling academic institutions to urgently re-evaluate both their teaching methods and assessment criteria. In this context of disruption, it becomes imperative to evaluate its real impact and to delineate a pedagogical response that transcends mere prohibition or unregulated use. The present study is framed within this necessity, adopting as its primary objective to analyze in depth the perception of higher education students in the Social Sciences regarding AI. The study focused on three axes of perception: the practical utility of AI, the identification of ethical and academic risks inherent in its use, and the explicit demand for training to manage this tool. The methodology employed corresponded to a quantitative design using a five-dimension Likert-type questionnaire covering the constructs of utility, risk, reliability, cognitive impact, and need for training. The collected data were subjected to inferential analysis using the Student's t-test and the Pearson Correlation Coefficient. The results reveal an adoption driven fundamentally by operational efficiency. The most conclusive finding is the demand for faculty training, which underscores a formative gap. The study emphasizes the urgency of a curricular redefinition that equips both students and faculty to manage risks, overcome skepticism about reliability, and utilize AI as a critical and responsible instrument.
Building Data-Driven Organizations: A Theoretical Exploration of the Role of Leadership in Big Data Management
Problem: The adoption of Big Data and Business Intelligence is often limited by the lack of leadership with the necessary skills to manage the information provided by the data. This is compounded by the absence of an organization with an established data-driven culture. Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze how the role of leadership influences the development of a data-driven organizational culture and how this relates to Big Data management. Methodology: A qualitative approach with a theoretical-exploratory focus was used, based on a systematic literature review of high-impact databases such as Scopus and Web of Science regarding leadership, organizational culture, Big Data, and data culture. and decision-making processes published between 2015 and 2025. Results: The study identified four key drivers: data analysis, data democratization, data-driven leadership, and ethics in data-driven decision-making. Conclusion: Leadership is a fundamental factor in building a data-driven organizational culture. Its role is not limited to the adoption of technologies but extends to guiding cultural change processes that allow for the strategic and ethical use of Big Data for decision-making and the achievement of strategic objectives . Proper alignment between leadership, culture, and data management is required to build competitive organizations that are better prepared for digital transformation in dynamic environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 JOINETECH provides immediate free access to its content, with the conviction that making this information available to the public favors a greater global knowledge exchange. In this sense, the journal follows the DOAJ definition of open access: "We define them as journals in which the copyright holder of a scholarly work grants the rights of use to others using an open licence (Creative Commons or equivalent) that allows immediate free access to the work and permits any user to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search or link to the full text of articles, crawl them for indexing, pass them as data to software or use them for any other lawful purpose. JOINETECH adheres to different initiatives that promote free access to knowledge, such as Plan S of the cOAlition S, or the principles of the communication infrastructure for academic publication and open science AmeliCA, so all JOINETECH contents edited by UTAMED are from free and open access and are published under a Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0). Likewise, the journal provides information on the conditions of use and reuse of content (Creative Commons and Open Access). That is why the authors who publish in JOINETECH must accept the following conditions: - The authors retain the copyright, assigning to JOINETECH the right of the 1st publication, with the work registered with the Creative Commons attribution license (which allows third parties to use what is published as long as they mention the authorship of the work and the 1st publication in this journal). - Authors can make other independent and additional contractual agreements for the non-exclusive distribution of the version of the article published in JOINETECH (eg, publish it in a book or in an institutional repository) provided that it is clearly indicated that the work was published for the first time in JOINETECH. - Authors are allowed, and even recommended, to publish their work on the Internet (institutional, personal pages, social networks, etc.) since it can facilitate exchanges. - Authors are allowed, and even encouraged, to deposit supplementary material, at least the research data underlying publications, in institutional or thematic open access repositories federated in the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC)."
The effects of manager’s strategic vision on innovation performance: A macro-level study
Knowledge management has strong importance in innovative processes, furthermore, it can be stated that competitive intelligence and knowledge generation systems for top managers have effect on business innovation. This article establishes a theoretical framework based on the Resourced-Based View (RBV) to analyze the role of top managers’ strategic vision in the success of innovation processes and to provide some empirical evidence of the value of business intelligence systems on the innovation performance in the organizations. Results show there is a strong relationship between top managers’ vision and innovation performance; moreover, from the relevance of the top managers’ vision derives the value of the business intelligence systems, which is the top managers’ main tool for learning and knowledge creation.
Mapping the Intersection of Marketing, Artificial Intelligence, and the Cooperative Sector: A Bibliometric Analysis
Abstract Purpose: This study examines the role of marketing within the cooperative sector, as well as the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool. The study aims to identify the main challenges and opportunities in cooperative marketing, evaluate the application of AI in these strategies and inform future research. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science database to classify academic publications and reveal thematic relationships. VOSviewer was then used to map intellectual structures, while a Python-based co-occurrence analysis examined the links between cultural, regional, and thematic factors. Findings: The findings highlight the growing intersection between marketing, AI, and the cooperative sector. Fifteen research questions, grouped into five themes, were identified to guide future interdisciplinary studies. Integrating marketing and AI within the social economy could enhance the sustainability, competitiveness, and equity of cooperative business models. Study limitations: Although exploratory, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature. However, limitations include reliance on the WoS database and focus on English-language publications, as well as inevitable subjectivity in interpretation. Including other databases in future analyses could enrich the scope of the research. Practical value: Overall, the study provides valuable insights into how technological innovation, particularly AI, can align with the social and ethical values of cooperatives. It also establishes a foundation for further research and the development of frameworks that can strengthen the cooperative sector's sustainable and competitive marketing strategies.
Industry Needs Analysis for Augmented, Virtual and Extended Reality: Addressing Skills Gaps in Immersive Technologies for Economic Development
The rapid advancement of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR) technologies presents unprecedented opportunities for economic innovation and sectoral transformation. However, significant skills gaps persist across European industries, limiting the sector's capacity for innovation and competitiveness. This study presents a comprehensive industry needs analysis conducted across ten countries (Turkey, Romania, Spain, South Africa, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Sweden, Slovakia, and Israel) through 200 in-depth interviews with 160 companies. The research, conducted between September and October 2024 as part of the Metaverse Academy Project, identifies critical skills requirements, training needs, and barriers to adoption of immersive technologies. Key findings reveal high awareness of these technologies but variable adoption rates, a significant multidisciplinary skills gap encompassing technical, creative, and soft skills, and a strong need for industry-academia collaboration. The analysis provides evidence-based recommendations for developing comprehensive training programmes aligned with industry needs, thus contributing to the European Union's competitiveness in the immersive technologies sector.
The Synergy between Green Marketing, Innovation, and Sustainability- Enhancing Green Brand Equity and Corporate Social Responsibility.
This study explores the interconnected roles of green marketing, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and green brand equity in promoting sustainable strategies and innovation. Through bibliometric analysis, the research identifies how the integration of sustainability and technological innovation enhances CSR perception and strengthens brand equity by fostering consumer trust and loyalty. The findings reveal that green marketing supported by innovation not only improves corporate reputation but also creates competitive advantages, despite ongoing challenges such as profitability trade-offs and greenwashing concerns. This paper offers practical insights for marketers, corporate leaders, and policymakers to design impactful green strategies, contributing to the limited literature on the synergy between sustainability, innovation, and brand positioning in eco-conscious markets.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
University-industry cooperation in Latin America a perspective from the obstacles.
This study explores the dynamics of science–industry collaboration in emerging economies, with a particular focus on university–industry partnerships in Latin America. The research aims to understand how the defining characteristics of these partnerships influence their effectiveness and what barriers must be overcome to enhance cooperation. The methodology combines secondary data analysis with primary data collection through expert consultations, including a Virtual Forum and collaborative meetings across several Latin American countries. A gap matrix was developed to identify missing data, which was then supplemented by expert input from academia, industry, and government sectors in both the EU and Latin America. Key findings reveal that fragmented innovation policies, lack of a dynamic technological environment, and limited understanding of universities’ third mission significantly hinder collaboration. Cultural and institutional mismatches, differing timelines, and concerns over academic autonomy further exacerbate these challenges. The study emphasizes the need for a more cohesive legal and institutional framework, improved research and development (R&D) management, and the adoption of best practices from entrepreneurial universities. To foster effective university–industry collaboration, the study recommends targeted policy reforms, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and a strategic focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Why Do We Understand Emergency Messages—or Not? Identifying Their Explanatory Conditions Using csQCA.
Objective and significance of the study: In recent years, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters have significantly increased, prompting public managers to develop early warning systems. However, these systems have prioritized technological advancements over identifying the conditions that influence their adoption and use by individuals. Methodology: This study examines the factors that explain citizens’ understanding of emergency alert messages, applying crisp-set qualitative comparative analysis to a sample of 188 Internet users who have received such alerts. Key findings: Based on the stimulus–organism–response theory, the findings indicate that understanding the content of these messages can be attributed to stimuli or the combination of stimuli and organisms. Study limitations: The work focuses on a sample composed of people between 35 and 44 years old. Practical value of the findings: The study explores the conditions underlying the lack of comprehension of these messages, emphasizing the importance of recipients’ gender and highlighting how different combinations of stimulus and organism elements contribute to this outcome.
Digitization Meets Sustainability: The Role of Marketing Analytics in Transforming E-Commerce.
This study examines the relationships between customer trust, corporate sustainability communication, technology adoption, and consumer purchase intention in Middle Eastern e-commerce, focusing on the moderating role of the regulatory environment. Using a quantitative methodology, data were collected through an online survey of 750 consumers across the Middle East. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the data and test five hypotheses. The results confirm that customer trust in digital platforms, clear corporate sustainability communication, and the adoption of advanced technologies significantly enhance consumer purchase intention. The findings also demonstrate that a robust regulatory environment, such as those under initiatives such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the Green Economy initiative of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), positively moderates the perceived value of sustainability efforts, further increasing purchase intention. The study contributes to the literature by integrating the technology acceptance model (TAM) and institutional theory within the sustainability context and offering practical insights for businesses and policymakers. Limitations include the reliance on self-reported data and the regional focus, suggesting a need for future cross-regional and longitudinal studies.
Incentives and Leadership Structures: Shaping International Expansion Through Exploration and Exploitation Strategies.
The international expansion strategies of Multinational Enterprises (MNEs), whether exploration or exploitation, remain a longstanding debate. Based on Upper Echelons Theory, this study investigates how the structure and characteristics of a firm’s executives, including the Top Management Team (TMT) and CEO, influence strategic choices. Additionally, executive compensation is considered an incentive mechanism. This research examines the effects of TMT’s long-term and short-term compensation on firms’ international strategy selection. While most prior studies link TMT compensation or diversity to firm performance, this study focuses on their relationship with international strategy choices. Data from 745 Taiwan- based MNEs in the technology and communication industries, encompassing 10,688 TMT members, were extracted from the Taiwan Economic Journal (TEJ) database for 2021 and 2022. The results reveal that TMT short-term compensation positively correlates with firms’ exploitation strategies, while long-term compensation correlates with exploration strategies. Moreover, CEO power negatively moderates these relationships, whereas TMT diversity and executives’ experience partially enhance them. This study contributes to understanding the role of incentives and leadership structures in shaping international expansion strategies.
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) for Sustainability: An Exploration of Emerging Academic Discourses.
This paper discusses how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) transforms sustainability by addressing critical global challenges. It explores academic insights into the ways GenAI drives applications, opportunities, and solutions in education, business, governance, and the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The literature analysis highlights that GenAI fosters inclusivity, enhances operational efficiency, and promotes innovative sustainability practices. However, it also presents challenges such as algorithmic bias, digital divides, and high energy consumption. The study calls on stakeholders to adopt ethical frameworks, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and implement robust policies. These actions will mitigate risks and ensure the responsible deployment of GenAI to achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes globally.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Value Creation and Capture: Strategic Implications of the EU Artificial Intelligence Act within Business Model Theory
This article aims to offer a novel answer to the following question: How can firms use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to create and capture value, specifically through predictive machine learning? This article analyses ten papers by the same author on the themes of value creation through AI. These papers include conceptual research, empirical cases, and case-based theory building. These exploratory cases explore the management of AI capabilities in business models using a variety of methodologies, including systematic reviews, statistical regression, and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). To enhance the theoretical and practical insights arising from this research, the article adds a regulatory dimension to the analysis by discussing the European Union (EU) Artificial Intelligence Act. The results show that AI can create perceived user value and enable the realization of data network effects. When applied within a firm’s business model architecture, AI can activate one or more of the four available business model themes (novelty, efficiency, complementarity, and lock-in) that account for value creation and capture. This study contributes to understanding how a firm can use this new technology to create value. The findings suggest that integrating AI into business models is essential for delivering user value and fostering data network effects. Managers play a crucial role in coordinating AI deployment across all business activities. The findings reveal that firms must not only activate the appropriate business model themes (e.g., novelty, efficiency, and lock-in) but also ensure compliance with evolving regulatory standards to secure sustainable competitive advantage. This study adopts a multitheoretical approach based on business model theory and the theory of data network effects. However, authors of further studies should consider using large samples and testing the findings in different contexts to enhance generalizability.
Configurational Theorizing and Multiple Theories in the Pursuit of Theoretical Advancement: A Systematic Review
The objective and significance of the study. The inherent complexity of social phenomena has resulted in a notable increase in the utilization of the configurational approach for their study. Adopting a configurational perspective has consequences for both the development of theories and the analysis of data. In the first case, it involves the use of multiple theories as a means to more comprehensively explain the phenomena under investigation. Secondly, it concerns the implications of integrating different theoretical perspectives into the propositions established within the studies. The methodology used. In light of the contributions of two publications that have delineated the integration of theoretical multiplicity from a configurational perspective, the present study undertakes a systematic literature review encompassing the period from 2020 to 2025. Key findings. This study aims to identify the main contributions made by the academic literature in recent years. The identified studies emphasize the efficacy of theoretical multiplicity as a holistic perspective that facilitates the analysis of complex phenomena. Study limitations. This work has limited the search to Scopus, and can be extended to other repositories as well as different types of work beyond articles. Practical value of the findings. Furthermore, the potential of QCA as an analytical method is emphasized, as it is predominantly employed in studies that integrate multiple theories into the formulation of their propositions.
Approach to the Relationship between Corporate Governance-Related Variables and R&D-Driven Economic Value
Objective: Corporate innovation is a crucial strategy for companies seeking sustainable growth, competitiveness and long-term value creation. However, its impact remains limited without the commitment of corporate governance decision-makers. The aim of this research is to analyze how the characteristics of boards of directors influence the ability to generate economic value through the organizations' commitment to innovation. Methodology: This research uses a GLS regression model on panel data related to the most innovative European companies from 2012 to 2022. Results: Although the results highlight the important role of female directors in improving CEO effectiveness, they also reveal the persistent challenges related to the low representation of women in senior executive positions and the complexities of nationality diversity on corporate boards. The investigation also highlights slight differences between listed and non-listed companies. Practical implications: By examining how decisions from corporate governance decision-makers translate innovation into economic value, this research contributes to a better understanding of how to design strategies aimed at creating and maintaining sustainable business value.
Motivations, media dependency and parasocial interaction: key drivers of SNS active participation
Objective and significance of the study – This study aims to understand the psychological and social mechanisms that drive active participation in Social Networking Sites (SNSs). By integrating the Uses and Gratifications Theory, Media Dependency Theory, and Parasocial Interaction, it explores how user motivations, dependency on SNSs, and interactions with other users jointly influence engagement levels in digital platforms. Methodology – An empirical study was conducted with a sample of 904 SNS users in Spain. The research model was tested using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the direct and mediating relationships among the key constructs. Findings – The results show that user motivations are a strong predictor of SNS dependency, which in turn enhances parasocial interaction and active participation. In addition, user motivations and parasocial interaction with other users significantly reinforce behavioural engagement. These findings confirm the multidimensional nature of SNS use, shaped not only by functional needs but also by emotional and social bonds. Study limitations – The generalisability of the results may be limited due to the specific geographic context (Spain) and the cross-sectional design. Practical value of the findings – The study offers a validated, theory-based framework that helps platform developers, marketers, and community managers understand the psychological drivers of user participation. The insights can support strategies aimed at fostering user engagement, enhancing content relevance, and strengthening loyalty through emotional and social connection.
Simulating Success: Developing Resilience as a Critical Skill in Digital Business
The increasing digitalization of the economy and the transformation of business models have created a dynamic, uncertain, and technology-driven environment where success hinges on the acquisition of essential skills and competencies. Companies are increasingly aware of the importance of investing in human talent and equipping employees with soft skills that enable them to thrive in such uncertain conditions. Among these, resilience stands out as a key competency, reinforcing an organization's competitive edge while ensuring adaptability, sustainability, and growth in a technology-dominated world. This study aims to examine the role of simulation-based activities in fostering resilience as a critical competency for digital businesses. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale to assess whether participation in simulation exercises—designed to replicate professional settings characterized by high levels of competitiveness, demand, and stress—enhances participants' resilience. The findings indicate that engagement in these exercises significantly improves resilience levels, offering valuable insights into the cultivation of this essential skill in managerial contexts. The study's primary managerial implication is that implementing simulation exercises can positively influence employees' resilience, contributing to their capacity to navigate challenging professional environments effectively.