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Role of psychological well-being, quality of life and distress tolerance in caregivers of geriatric population: an Indian exploratory study
Purpose: This study aims to gain an understanding of how caring for an ageing population affects caregivers psychological well-being, quality of life and ability to tolerate distress. This study provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by family caregivers and underscores the critical need for comprehensive support systems. Design/methodology/approach: A correlational method and cross-sectional research design was used for the study. For this, a sample of 200 caregivers in the age range of 2560 years who were taking care of the geriatric population above the age of 70 years for a minimum of one year were chosen. Four questionnaires ? Burden Scale for Family Caregivers, Psychological Well-Being Scale, World Health Organizations Quality of Life Scale-BRIEF version and Distress Tolerance Scale were chosen. Correlation and multivariate regression were calculated using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) 21 and Jamovi 3.4.1. Findings: This study found that there is a negative correlation of caregiver burden with psychological well-being, quality of life and distress tolerance. The sub-domains of self-acceptance, psychological health and tolerance levels were most impacted for the caregivers. Through multivariate regression, it was found that the caregiver burden significantly predicted psychological well-being and quality of life. Research limitations/implications: This study focuses on the English-speaking caregivers which may overlook the diverse linguistic and cultural variations within the broader caregiver community in India and the data collection exclusively targeted family caregivers providing support to geriatric population without chronic illnesses. This restriction could potentially limit the generalizability of the findings to the broader caregiving context. Practical implications: The implications of this research are that for caregivers, this study underscores the importance of tailored support programmes that address the negative impact of caregiver burden on psychological well-being and quality of life. Health-care professionals can use the findings to incorporate mental health assessments and interventions within caregiving contexts, recognizing the interconnected nature of these variables. Policymakers can use the findings to inform policies related to caregiver support and health-care resource allocation. Originality/value: In India, the social norm is that children are expected to take care of their parents when they become old. Taking care of elderly parents can be challenging, even emotionally. As a result, this study will focus on how caregivers psychological well-being, quality of life and ability to tolerate distress are affected. Consequently, promoting the creation of community support groups and workplace mental health programmes which could give caregivers a forum to voice their concerns. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Does integrated store service quality determine omnichannel customer lifetime value? Role of commitment, relationship proneness, and relationship program receptiveness
Purpose: Building on the relationship marketing and stimulus-organism-response (SOR) theory, the purpose of this paper is to study the impact of the integrated store service quality (ISSQ) on the omnichannel customer lifetime value (CLV). The mediating role of customer commitment (affective, normative and continuance) and relationship program receptiveness with the moderating role of customer relationship proneness were relied upon to better understand the omnichannel customer profitability metric (CLV). Design/methodology/approach: The study is descriptive and relies upon the cross-sectional data collected using the self-administered structured questionnaires from 785 omnichannel shoppers. A purposive sampling technique was performed in the study. Structural equation modeling was performed using the SMART-PLS 4.0 software to analyze the data. Findings: The results indicate that omnichannel customer commitment (affective, normative and continuance) differentially mediates the relationship between ISSQ and relationship program receptiveness, subsequently impacting the omnichannel CLV. The customer relationship proneness significantly and positively moderated the relationships between different dimensions of customer commitment and relationship program receptiveness. Research limitations/implications: The study relied upon the cross-sectional data from the Indian population aged above 18years for testing the proposed model. Further studies could test the model across different populations to generalize the study results. Originality/value: This study addresses the need to investigate the omnichannel retail store customer profitability and their relationship performance with the store. By testing the customer relationship management model in the omnichannel retail store context, this study is the first to show that ISSQ will impact the customer profitability and relationship performance metric (CLV) through omnichannel customer commitment and relationship program receptiveness. The moderating effect of customer relationship proneness on a few proposed hypotheses was also tested to give managerial recommendations. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Routing TQM through HR strategies to achieve organizational effectiveness: themediating role of HR outcomes in India
Purpose: The present research focuses on improving the awareness related to soft total quality management (TQM) practices by looking from the viewpoint of strategic human resources (HR). In addition, it is intended to reflect on the resulting soft TQM-HR outcomes and determine the mediating effect between soft TQM-HR strategies and organizational effectiveness (OE). Design/methodology/approach: An exploratory research methodology with an online survey technique was adopted for the study. Three hundred and three managerial-level personnel from nine large Indian manufacturing organizations participated in the research. A theoretical model is projected and verified using correlation and mediation analysis. Findings: The results show that commitment, reduced turnover intentions and satisfaction levels of employees mediate the relationship between resources, development and retention strategies and OE. However, the retention strategy has the strongest association with the OE of the three strategies. Also, of the three HR outcomes, satisfaction was strongly associated with OE. The analysis proved that the proposed model is an acceptable fit. Practical implications: Implementing HR-related TQM strategies will likely impact OE since it elicits positive HR outcomes such as commitment, reduced turnover intention and satisfaction. Recognizing human resources as a unique strategic asset will help HR managers devise adequate resourcing, development and retention strategies instrumental in executing TQM. Originality/value: The present micro study is unique in scrutinizing the influence of soft TQM-HR practices on organizational effectiveness by analysing the mediating effects of commitment, reduced turnover intention and satisfaction in Indian large-scale manufacturing organizations. The study is unique since no literature deciphers the linkages between HR strategies and organizational effectiveness in the Indian manufacturing sector. 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Impact of dynamic pricing and driver behavior on service quality in ride-hailing operations: a study of Bangalores urban dynamics
Purpose The study evaluates the influence of the dynamic pricing factors, price transparency, seasonality and driver behavior on the ride-hailing services perceived quality. While many technological changes are detected in the service, dissatisfaction continues to persist between customers about prices surging higher and dangerous practices of driving in the service. Design/methodology/approach In the context of an urban area such as Bangalore, service quality and customer satisfaction are mostly a result of dynamic pricing and driver behavior. In order to better understand the associations in these relations, the study utilizes PLS-SEM in quantitative. Findings The study identifies the user-ride-hailing survey key service quality drivers reliability, comfort, responsiveness and safety. Although the results indicate that dynamic pricing can successfully manage demand, this is contingent on whether it is implemented in a transparent manner and with a sense of equity perceived by customers. Driver professionalism is the important variable that strengthens or weakens the effect of pricing policies on customer satisfaction. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to the expanding body of knowledge on urban mobility and provides actionable insights for improving ride-hailing operations in developing economies. Practical implications Implications to industrial stakeholders entail reorienting in driver training and refining algorithms and strategies about dynamic pricing that boost customer trust and loyalty. Originality/value This is one of the few studies that explore the dynamics of urban mobility from developing countries perspective like India. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
The linkage of sustainable development and spirituality at workspace from the perspectives of university teachers
Purpose Sustainability and spirituality are interrelated concepts that hold immense importance in todays world. The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of spirituality (and its dimensions) on sustainability in the educational sector, in addition to examining the role of socio-demographic factors. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design was employed using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed through independent t-tests, analysis of variance, correlation analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess relationships between socio-demographic factors, workspace spirituality and sustainability. Findings The study found no significant differences in sustainability levels across gender, age or years of work experience. However, significant differences in workspace spirituality were observed between males and females, and across different age groups and experience levels. Positive correlations were found between workspace spirituality and dimensions such as compassion, transcendence and meaningful work, while mindfulness showed a negative correlation. SEM results further indicated that compassion and meaningful work positively influence sustainability, while mindfulness negatively affects it. Transcendence, however, showed no significant impact. Research limitations/implications The study highlights the deep interconnection between spirituality and sustainability and how socio-demographic factors shape this relationship. It provides insights for educational institutions to foster spiritually enriching environments that not only enhance academic outcomes but also promote ethical awareness, personal growth and environmental responsibility. Originality/value This research uniquely bridges gaps between spirituality, sustainability and employee demographics, offering practical implications for creating spiritually fulfilling and sustainable workspaces in the educational sector. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Diet Coke faces negative publicity
Research methodology A secondary research method was used to collect data for this case. The authors have made use of newspaper articles and published articles written by journalists and experts, which are available in the public domain. The protagonists name has been masked. Case overview/synopsis This case study examine the controversy surrounding Diet Coke and the dilemma faced by the Coca-Cola vice president of marketing, Henry Kingston, over its product labeling. While Diet Coke has long been favored by health-conscious consumers seeking a low-calorie alternative, concerns over its use of aspartame, an artificial sweetener linked to potential health risks, had sparked consumer backlash, regulatory scrutiny and accusations that the company was misleading consumers with its labeling. The issue gained momentum when former US President Donald Trump publicly switched to regular Coke, citing health concerns over aspartame, further fueling media debates on artificial sweeteners. With increasing pressure from social media, consumer advocacy groups and regulatory bodies questioning whether the term diet misleads consumers into assuming the product is inherently healthier, Coca-Colas senior management team led by its CEO faces a critical dilemma whether to retain the strong brand recognition of Diet Coke or reposition the product with greater transparency. The case highlights the challenges of ethical marketing, corporate responsibility and consumer health awareness in the food and beverage industry, raising crucial questions about balancing brand loyalty with regulatory compliance and evolving consumer expectations. Complexity academic level This case study is suitable for under-graduate and post graduate students studying marketing strategy and brand management courses in business management and commerce streams can use this case. This case can also be used for marketing specialization courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Beyond AR and VR: immersive techniques for effective case teaching
Purpose This study aims to investigate the integration of immersive techniques into case teaching to address the limitations of traditional static methods in management education. It explores how these techniques enhance student engagement, critical thinking and the application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Design/methodology/approach Adopting a phenomenological and self-reflective methodology, this exploratory study draws insights from the lived experiences of educators and students by using non-technological immersive methods such as roleplay, interviews, industry visits and product exhibitions. Findings The findings reveal that immersive techniques foster deeper cognitive, emotional and behavioral engagement among students, providing a richer understanding of complex business dynamics. However, implementation challenges such as resource constraints and the reliance on external stakeholders are noted. Practical recommendations are provided to overcome these barriers. Practical implications The study highlights scalable and cost-effective immersive methods, making them accessible for institutions with limited technological resources. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, these techniques equip students with the critical skills and competencies required for todays workforce. Originality/value This research contributes to the existing body of literature by focusing on non-technological immersive methods, an area often overshadowed by studies on advanced technologies like virtual reality. It provides a framework for educators to innovate case teaching practices, enhancing the relevance and impact of management education. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Marketing odyssey for a digitally native brand: a case study of Sunbird Straws
Research methodology: The case study incorporated a combination of primary and secondary data collection approach. The authors interviewed Dr Varghese, the co-founder of Sunbird Straws and the protagonist in this case study. In addition, secondary data was obtained from various sources such as newspaper articles, journal publications and company reports. Case overview/synopsis: On a rosy and vibrant morning in 2017, Dr Saji Varghese, a professor at Christ University in Bangalore, stumbled upon a curved coconut leaf on the campus resembling a straw. This sparked his motivation to transform coconut leaves into a natural straw, prompting him to initiate experiments with coconut leaves in his kitchen. The process of boiling and straining leaves became his method for crafting an eco-friendly straw. After numerous attempts, he successfully produced straws from coconut leaves, introducing a distinctive and creative concept incubated at IIM Bangalore. These unique straws, crafted by Varghese, prioritised environmental friendliness and were also crafted entirely from biodegradable materials, free from harmful chemicals. These straws demonstrated durability in hot and cold beverages for up to 3 h, maintaining their integrity without becoming soggy or leaking. As the business flourished, it reached a critical juncture. The primary challenge centred around product marketing, mainly due to consumer unfamiliarity with such sustainable straws. This was a product that also fell under the category of low involvement for consumers. Raising awareness about the product and persuading consumers to purchase presented a significant hurdle. In response, Varghese assigned his team to develop cost-effective marketing strategies. Given the start-up nature of the business, advertising budgets were constrained, and the objective was to achieve a positive return on advertising spend for every investment in advertising the product. In addition, the focus was on increasing the likelihood of selling the straws on both business-to-business and business-to-consumer levels. In this case study, Vargheses role and predicament exemplify the delicate equilibrium that entrepreneurs frequently grapple with, striking a balance between marketing strategy and return on ad spent to steer the trajectory of their businesses. It offered a valuable examination of the nuanced decisions marketers encounter as they strive for both profitability and customer-centric products. Complexity academic level: The case study is relevant to the marketing discipline. All undergraduate and postgraduate-level marketing courses in higher education institutions can use this case study. It can also be used in integrated marketing communication or digital marketing classes. It can be used further in the hospitality and management fields. Also, online courses in marketing can include this case study. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Impact of moral and exchange capital on media favourability of financial companies in India
Purpose The purpose of this study is to illuminate the influence of institutional and transactional corporate social responsibility (CSR) on media sentiments in financial companies in India. This study is conducted to understand how different CSR strategies impact media perceptions, influencing the reputation and public image of financial companies in India. Design/methodology/approach This study examines the data of 56 National Stock Exchange-listed financial companies for eight years of data from 20142015 to 20212022. Panel data regression were used to analyse the data; fixed and random effect models were chosen based on the Hausman test results. Findings Financial companies moral and exchange capital negatively impact the medias favourability of financial companies in India. Diagnostic tests like autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity are also conducted to check the effectiveness of research models. Originality/value Although prior research has examined the effect of CSR on media sentiments, little is known about the impact of moral capital and exchange capital on media favourability of financial companies in India. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Does salesperson-brand personality congruence impact perceived service quality of the salesperson? A study of small retailers in emerging markets
Purpose: Based on the theoretical lenses of social identity theory (SIT), this research study analyses the dyadic relationship of congruence between salesperson and brand personality. By exploring the salesperson-brand personality congruence, this study proposes to measure the impact of this congruence on the retailers perception of salespersons perceived service quality performance (SalesPerf). Design/methodology/approach: The study is structured around collecting data from small retailers through an offline survey. In this study, linear associations between the various elements of the theoretical model are determined using covariance-based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM). Findings: The analysis of results suggest that a retailer's perception of the salesperson's brand personality congruence positively influences the salesperson's perceived service quality. However, the retailer's satisfaction with the brand does not moderate the relationship between the retailer's perception of the salesperson's brand personality congruence and the salesperson's perceived service quality. Originality/value: This research fills the void in contemporary research by adopting a novel strategy to examine the perception of retailers toward the dyadic relationship between salesperson-brand congruence (SBPC) and salesperson's perceived service quality (PSQ). The study further enriches the existing literature by measuring the moderating role of retailer's satisfaction with the brand (SAT) on the retailer's perception of the salesperson's brand congruence (SBPC) and salesperson's perceived service quality (PSQ). 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Green apparel and Generation Zs purchase intention: the moderating role of eWOM
Purpose This paper aims to examine the relationships among attitude, subjective norm (SN), perceived behavioral control (PBC), perceived novelty (PN), consumer confidence (CC) and Generation Zs (Gen Zs) green apparel purchase intention (PI), and also test the moderating role of electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM). Methodology The quantitative study used structural equation modeling and Hayes PROCESS macro to analyze a survey sample of 512 Gen Z consumers. Findings The key findings indicate that attitude, SN, PBC, PN and CC significantly influence Gen Z consumers green apparel PI. Furthermore, eWOM moderated the relationship between CC and Gen Z consumers green apparel PI. Originality Although previous studies have examined the influence of attitude, SN and PBC on green product PI, the expanded framework with the proposed possible relationships is novel. This research sheds light on the effect of PN and CC on Gen Z consumers green apparel purchases. Furthermore, this study extends the green apparel literature by investigating the moderating impact of eWOM. 2026 Smriti Mathur, Alok Tewari, Avinash K. Shrivastava and Preeti Sharma. -
Investigating the heterogeneity of ESG investors: evidence from emerging economies
Purpose This study aims to examine the heterogeneity in behavioural characteristics of retail investors regarding sustainable investments, identifying patterns of convergence and divergence in sustainability-oriented market behaviours. By developing and validating specialized indices for environmental, social and governance (ESG) preferences, investor sentiments, performance perceptions, investment intentions, subjective norms, cognitive biases and greenwashing concerns, this research investigates how socio-demographic factors influence these indices through assessing heterogeneity across investor segments. Design/methodology/approach The authors develop and validate five ESG behavioural indices capturing multiple dimensions of sustainable investment behaviour. Data were collected through a comprehensive survey of 511 active retail investors in the Indian stock market. Heterogeneity analysis was conducted to identify variations in behavioural characteristics across the sample. The authors use quantile regression analysis to assess heterogeneity across demographic segments (age, income, gender, employment, education and investment experience), examining how relationships vary across the conditional distribution of ESG behavioural dimensions. Findings The analysis reveals heterogeneity in ESG investment behaviour across demographic segments. Age consistently reduces ESG engagement across all dimensions, while higher income enables selective sustainability preferences but increases investment irrationality. Gender creates divergent ESG orientations, with distinct patterns in environmental versus social priorities. Employment status and education facilitate ESG adoption through stability and social learning mechanisms, whereas investment experience paradoxically generates both sophisticated awareness and fundamental skepticism. Critically, performance perceptions emerge as the primary determinant mediating demographic influences on ESG preferences, establishing that sustainability investment behaviour is instrumentally rational rather than value-expressive in emerging markets. Practical implications The findings provide insights for enhancing sustainable investment participation. Financial institutions should develop targeted educational programmes to address knowledge gaps, as awareness significantly influences ESG preferences. Recognizing investor heterogeneity is essential younger, high-income investors respond to performance narratives, while older investors seek transparency. Addressing greenwashing concerns through standardized reporting and third-party certifications builds trust. Leveraging social influence through choice architecture and behavioural nudges can overcome decision-making barriers. Income-based strategies should include structured ESG portfolios for high-income investors prone to impulsivity, while providing educational support on stable returns for price-sensitive retail investors in emerging markets. Social implications The identified behavioural market failure in sustainable investing has important implications for the development of sustainable finance policies in emerging markets. Addressing the divergence in sustainability views could accelerate the transition towards more sustainable capital markets and contribute to broader sustainability goals. The findings highlight the need for targeted initiatives and policy interventions to bridge the gap between ESG preferences and actual investment behaviour. Originality/value This study advances sustainable finance through three contributions. First, the authors develop and validate multidimensional ESG behavioural indices capturing preferences, sentiments, perceptions, intentions and irrationality among retail investors. Second, the authors establish demographic heterogeneity as a structural market characteristic challenging the homogeneous investor assumption. Third, the authors theorize performance primacy as the fundamental mechanism driving ESG preference formation, demonstrating instrumental rationality rather than value-expression. These frameworks, validated through quantile regression analysis, provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners designing targeted interventions across demographically diverse investor segments in emerging markets. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
INTEGRATING CLIMATE CHANGE, SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND ELECTRONIC FINANCIAL INCLUSION: A PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Purpose: This study explores the intersection of climate change social responsibility and electronic financial inclusion (EFI) as critical components of sustainable development. The research aims to identify the synergies between these domains and their potential to drive inclusive growth and resilience. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study integrates literature review and case studies to analyse the role of EFI in enhancing access to financial services, particularly for marginalised communities. It also examines corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. The research study highlights successful integration models and best practices that demonstrate the impact of multistakeholder collaboration. Findings: The findings reveal that EFI significantly contributes to poverty reduction and economic empowerment by expanding financial access in underserved regions. Moreover, corporate initiatives in climate change mitigation, when aligned with social responsibility, enhance business resilience and foster sustainable practices. The study emphasises the importance of supportive policy frameworks and technological innovations in scaling these efforts. Research Limitations/Implications: The studys focus on case studies may limit the generalisability of the findings. Future research could explore broader geographic regions and diverse economic contexts. Originality/Value: This paper contributes to the understanding of how integrating climate action, social responsibility and EFI can create resilient, equitable and sustainable systems. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, businesses and practitioners aiming to advance sustainable development through innovative and inclusive strategies. 2025 Ernesto D. R. S. Gonzalez, Rajeev Sijariya, Amit Kumar Singh and Vikas Garg Published under exclusive licence by Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Talent Management Practices and Product Differentiation as Resilience Strategies in Africa
The challenge of weak product among other issues confronting resilience strategies of an organization has been attributed to insufficient investment in talent management. This study investigated talent management practices as resilience strategies from a product differentiation perspective among selected deposit money banks (DMBs) in Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, and the population was 2, 169 senior employees and managers. A stratified random sampling technique was adopted, and a sample size of 425 respondents was determined using Rao soft online sample calculator. A validated structured and adapted questionnaire was used in gathering data while Cronbachs alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged from 0.929 to 0.942 with a response rate of 85.6%. Findings indicated that talent management components had a significant effect on product differentiation (adjusted R2 = 0.779, F(5, 366) = 261.564, p < 0.05). The conclusion was that talent management practices significantly affect product differentiation. It was recommended to the management of the DMBs in Nigeria particularly and Africa in general to prioritize talent management practices as resilience strategies to advance product differentiation in their various units of operations. 2026 Solomon Olusegun Adeoye and Johnson Ashiemamho Egwakhe -
Strengthening Legal Frameworks for Small Businesses Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Consumer Products: Navigating Nigerian Regulations in the ERA of Industry 5.0
This chapter examines the legal frameworks governing artificial intelligence (AI) integration in consumer products by small businesses in Nigeria, within the context of Industry 5.0. The mission of this research is to address a critical knowledge gap on the legal challenges faced by small businesses in this rapidly changing technological landscape. The complexity of existing legal frameworks, difficulties comprehending and adhering to regulations, striking a balance between innovation, consumer protection and ethics, the effect of regulatory uncertainty on business growth and AI adoption and the adequacy of current legal frameworks are some of the key concerns. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory environment, assist small businesses in navigating regulations, guide the creation of policies and contribute to academic discourse on AI governance in developing economies. Using a mixed-methods approach combining legal analysis, case studies and surveys of 100 small business owners and legal experts, it has revealed significant challenges for small businesses in navigating the legal landscape of AI integration. The findings refute the idea that small Nigerian enterprises are uninterested in complying with regulations by highlighting a strong association between legal guidance and successful regulatory navigation. This chapter speculates that lack of awareness and understanding of legal frameworks may be a major barrier to entry for small businesses in the AI-enabled consumer products market. This research contributes to literature on AI regulation in developing economies and provides practical insights for policymakers, legal practitioners and small business owners in Nigerias emerging Industry 5.0 landscape. 2026 Rosetta Okiemute Isiavwe, Mary-Ann Onoshioke Ajayi, Folajimi Olayiwola Jejelola and Olayiwola Owoade Oladele -
Disruptive Technology and Performance of Manufacturing SMEs as Moderated by Technological Innovation in South-West Nigeria
The manufacturing sector is critical and significant to economic growth, offering dynamic benefits for industrial transformation. However, many manufacturing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face challenges such as limited capacity and technical expertise, leading to reduced profitability, market share (MS), and overall business performance. In todays competitive business environment, these SMEs are particularly vulnerable to the effects of disruptive technology (DT), which poses both challenges and opportunities. This study examined the impact of DT on the performance of selected manufacturing SMEs in Lagos and Ogun States, Nigeria, with technological innovation (TIN) as a moderating factor. A survey research design was employed, targeting a population of 2, 603 manufacturing SMEs (504 in Ogun State and 2, 099 in Lagos State). Using Cochrans formula, a sample size of 436 was determined, and stratified random sampling was used to select respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, yielding an 88.3% response rate. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses revealed that DT significantly influenced SME performance, with TIN strengthening this relationship (adjusted R2 = 0.913, 0.932, and 0.935 across models, p < 0.05). The findings suggested that adopting DT is significant for improving the long-term performance of manufacturing SMEs. It is recommended among others that management should prioritize the integration of DT components to enhance overall business outcomes and competitiveness. 2026 Olamide Titilayo Ayodeji, Timilehin Olasoji Olubiyi, Titilayo Doris Ibikunle, Israel Olabode Aroge and Abiodun Richard Obisanya -
Prioritisation of Human Resource Strategies in the Digital Transformation Process of SMEs
This chapter focuses on the importance of human resource (HR) management strategies in the digital business strategy for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With the increasing influence of digital transformation that alters organisational structures and implements new technologies, SMEs have no other choice but to evolve. However, due to the scarcity of resources, it becomes very important for SMEs to allocate its HR appropriately and effectively. To support decision-making on strategies like employee reskilling, recruitment of digital talent, leadership development, and promoting a digital culture, this chapter presents a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework. The prioritisation is crucial because not all the strategies can be executed at once, and SMEs should target the most effective ones in the long run, affordable, and relevant to their digital transformation agenda. This chapter illustrates methods for how SMEs can use the proposed prioritisation framework effectively. The hypothetical case study demonstrates the real challenges faced by SMEs during digital transformation and how MCDA assists leaders in selecting the most beneficial HR strategies. The case highlights the necessity of fitting strategies to organisational challenges to allow the customisation of training and leadership to align with business demands and maximise effectiveness while minimising costs. Upon use, this framework enables SMEs to comprehend and direct their digital transformation path more effectively. 2026 Tu? ?im?ek and Ahmet Bahad?r ?im?ek -
Impact of Information and Communication Technology on E-Business of Small- and Medium-Scale Enterprises in Nigeria
The researchers examined the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) and e-business adoption on the performance and growth of small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. Using a survey research approach, the research integrates quantitative data from a survey of 30 SMEs across various sectors with the link of a well-structured questionnaire sent to a carefully determined sample of SMEs within Abuja and Lagos. The findings revealed that SMEs in Abuja and Lagos make use of ICTs for e-business, of which some of the tools are computers, internet, tablets, smartphones, videoconferencing, and more. Findings also showed that the adopted ICTs are effective in the conduct of the business activities of the SMEs. ICTs as utilised by the SMEs were found to be useful and therefore are suited for recommendations to other business people. The researchers conclude that ICTs are important in the business architecture of Nigeria and also recommend that strategic investments in ICT infrastructure, targeted training programmes, and supportive government policies are crucial for maximising the benefits of e-business for SMEs in Nigeria. These findings are of significance to business owners and the nation in general as they provide a comprehensive understanding of the critical role of ICT in the e-business architecture of Nigeria and how that can also contribute to the fostering of sustainable growth of gross domestic product (GDP). 2026 Mary Agamalafiya, Kelvin Inobemhe and Tsegyu Santas -
Resilience: Future Trends and Challenges in Small and Medium Enterprises
Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are essential drivers of innovation, employment, and economic growth in the global economy. However, the rapid technological advancements associated with Industry 5.0 introduce unprecedented challenges and vulnerabilities for these businesses. This chapter delves into the resilience of SMEs, with a focus on the future trends and challenges that will shape their survival and growth in this ever-evolving environment. By leveraging secondary data from reputable databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, this study synthesizes the available literature to deliver a thorough analysis of SME resilience. In addition to digital transformation, this chapter discusses the growing importance of sustainability in building resilience. It advocates for the adoption of sustainable practices that mitigate environmental risks while aligning with the increasing demand for corporate social responsibility. This chapter also underscores the necessity of fostering a resilient organizational culture capable of withstanding economic and political uncertainties. By leveraging data from previous studies, this chapter offers practical recommendations for enhancing SME resilience. It can be a critical resource for policymakers, business leaders, and researchers seeking to understand and address the factors that will determine the future success and sustainability of SMEs in the age of Industry 5.0. 2026 Mohit Sharma, Rishi Chaudhry, Raj Kumar, Nitika Malik and Kuldeep Chaudhary -
Sustainable Growth in SMEs With Generative AI: Reaping Rewards, Tackling Challenges, With Human Insights
Generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI), which refers to autonomous creation of content, is an area of artificial intelligence (AI) that presents a lot of potential for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This technology can boost productivity, help to communicate and attract customers, and stimulate innovations, thus becoming a major asset for SMEs in the increasingly competitive environment. This chapter provides insight into the role of Gen-AI in leveraging the innovativeness in SMEs and identifies key strategies for successful implementation, including enhancing employee skills, fostering effective leadership and company culture, promoting collaboration, and building strong external partnerships. It highlights crucial tactics for successful execution; additionally, it also offers insight into how Gen-AI leads to economic and social benefit. The study discusses data privacy and security issues as the majority of AI applications depend on massive informatics, and protection of data ethical concerns, as well as the appropriate training of the workforce, has to be accurately addressed to ensure that AI fits into the SME business strategy. Lastly, this study also demonstrates how the adoption of AI in SMEs is providing an upper hand to tackle competitive scenarios. 2026 Umme Ara and Shivani Pandey