Browse Items (7684 total)
Sort by:
-
Influence of ChatGPT in professional communication moderating role of perceived innovativeness
Purpose: ChatGPT, a cutting-edge language model, stands as an unparalleled, unmatched conversational ally, showcasing novel versatility and intelligence in its responses. This research delves into the incorporation of ChatGPT, a powerful generative AI tool, into professional communication. This study utilizes the information system success model (ISSM) to examine the role of ChatGPTs in strengthening information quality (IQ), system quality (SQ) and service quality (SEQ) for improving customer usage intention (UI) and satisfaction (SAT). The study also investigates the moderating impact of perceived innovativeness between these relationships. Design/methodology/approach: The research collected data from a sample of 400 customers through an online survey and validated the hypothesized relationships using structural equation modelling (SEM). Process Macros 4.1 in SPSS 22.0 is used to test the moderating role of perceived innovation between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT. Findings: The results of SEM analysis indicate that IQ, SQ and SEQ all positively support UI to use ChatGPT for professional communication with SAT. The result also establishes that perceived innovativeness positively moderates the relationship between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT. Originality/value: This research study offers novel contributions to the literature and body of knowledge by establishing the moderating role of perceived innovativeness in strengthening the relationship between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT. Further, this study also proposes a 2*2 matrix to segment the UI and SAT of ChatGPT users in professional communication with varying degrees of perceived innovativeness. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Examining the impact of website layout and dark triad approach on real estate purchase decisions in India: a young adult socialization mediated model
Purpose: This study aims to determine website quality, young adult socialization and dark triad personality as the factors influencing the real estate purchase decision. In addition, this study also measures the mediating effects of young adult socialization on real estate purchase buying behavior. Design/methodology/approach: Related literature, quantifiable variables with a five-point Likert scale, hypothesis testing and mediators are used to study the model. A systematic questionnaire that was divided into four sections was used. A total of 336 valid responses were collected and analyzed through a structural equation model. Findings: The results suggest that dark triad personality and young adult socialization considerably affect real estate purchase decisions. The development proves website quality does not significantly impact real estate purchase behavior. Research limitations/implications: This study is limited to a few young consumers responses. Future studies could be more widespread globally and should include more variables and offline methods of purchasing behavior. Originality/value: As per the review of existing literature, this research is the first, to the best of the authors knowledge, to determine the factors affecting the real estate purchase decision with factors like website quality, dark triad personalities and young adult socialization involving it. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Navigating real estate purchase decisions: an interplay of influential factors
Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between social trends, peer influence, personal attitudes regarding real estate purchase decisions, perception of long-term property value and the mediating effect of hedging in influencing property and real estate purchases. Design/methodology/approach Using a combination of quantitative surveys, this study aims to provide a comprehensive knowledge of the factors influencing real estate buying decisions. Data were obtained from 399 young consumers in four Indian cities. Using structural equation modeling, the suggested conceptual framework is examined. Findings The studys findings suggest that attitude plays an important role in influencing real estate purchase decisions. Young adults also tend to look for long-term gains or value when purchasing a home. Developing durable products for the customers is the best way to grow business, according to the results. Originality/value To the best of the authors knowledge, this is the first paper that examines the role of sentimental, personal and financial factors in real estate purchase decisions. The study provides insights into how these factors interact and affect the decisions of consumers in real estate. The authors hope that the findings will be useful for real estate professionals to better tailor their services to meet the needs of their customers. 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited -
The double-edged sword of ChatGPT: fostering and hindering creativity in postgraduate academics in Bengaluru
Purpose: This research examines the complex relationship between usage of Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) amongst student and their creativity, learning and assessment using empirical data collected from postgraduate students. In addition, the study explores the students intrinsic motivation for usage to understand student categories. This research seeks to provide further insights into this artificial intelligence tool in enhancing the educational ecosystem for all stakeholders concerned. Design/methodology/approach: The target population of this research the students of post-graduation in diverse fields of science and management. A five-point Likert scale-structured questionnaire adapted from earlier literature relevant to the research questions was adopted for data collection. The data were collected for twomonths, resulted in 403 usable responses. Ethical considerations of assurance of confidentiality to the participants were strictly adhered to. Structured equation modelling (SEM) was employed to explore the relationships between the constructs of the study for the assessment of latent relationships. SmartPLS 4 was used to explore these relationships. Findings: Usage has a negative impact on a students creativity, but increased usage of ChatGPT encourages a students adoption due to its perceived usability. Pedagogical applications of ChatGPT aid students as a learning tool but require controlled usage under supervision. Originality/value: This study is innovative in the context of postgraduate students, where very little evidence of creativity exists. Through this research, the authors illuminate how ChatGPT use affects academic performance, benefiting educators as a tool but for evaluation and assessment, policymakers and students. Thefindings of the study provide implications that help to create effective digital education strategies for stakeholders. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Brain-friendly approach to work environment and its motivational influence on ambidexterity and engagement of faculty in higher education
Purpose: As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, educational managers need to be adaptable and embrace versatility and interactivity in their management methods. The research investigates the interplay between brain-friendly work environment, motivation, ambidexterity and engagement among higher education faculty. Design/methodology/approach: This research investigates the relationships and mechanisms among various variables in higher education using a quantitative approach. Data were collected through surveys administered to educators in South India, focusing on their perceptions of brain-friendly work environments, motivation, ambidexterity and engagement. The questionnaire employed established standard scales, and a thorough analysis was conducted on the 437 responses received. Findings: The study establishes the significance of creating environments conducive to brain functioning, leading to the development of motivated, ambidextrous and engaged educators. Research limitations/implications: The study paves the way for experimental research, which can add rigour to the current findings. Additionally, other factors beyond the SCARF dimensions which can promote ambidexterity and engagement can be explored in future research. The findings of the study can be applied and tested in other organisational settings. Practical implications: A brain-friendly experience will function as a powerful motivational tool that enhances the productivity of faculty in the higher education sector. The insights of the study will help educational leaders in designing a productive work environment and governments in making policies which help to improve the quality of the higher education sector. Social implications: The quality and contributions of faculty members in the higher education sector are crucial for shaping society. This research contributes to the knowledge of creating motivated, ambidextrous and engaged faculty who can mould the future in todays competitive society. Originality/value: The concept of a workplace that prioritizes cognitive well-being is becoming increasingly relevant in education. Research results contribute significantly to existing knowledge and highlight the importance of creating an environment that supports optimal brain function, leading to enhanced employee performance. These findings offer valuable insights for educational leaders and policymakers seeking to improve working conditions. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Collaborative service robots and employee career sustainability: a mixed-methods study of trust and innovativeness as moderators
Purpose This study aims to explore how the integration of collaborative service robots (cobots) in the workplace influences employees long-term career sustainability. Specifically, it investigates the moderating roles of perceived innovativeness, trust and employee type in this relationship. The research integrates insights from decent work theory, career sustainability theory, perceived innovativeness theory and initial trust theory to develop and validate a comprehensive conceptual framework. Design/methodology/approach A sequential mixed-method design was adopted. In Phase I, qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with ten senior women managers from software development firms in India. Using grounded theory analysis via NVivo, key themes and constructs were identified. In Phase II, a structured questionnaire was developed based on these findings and distributed among employees working in manufacturing, logistics and hospitality sectors industries actively using service robots. A total of 755 usable responses were analysed using structural equation modelling with SmartPLS 4. Findings The analysis confirmed that humanrobot collaboration effectiveness, perceived working conditions and perceived autonomy significantly impact employees career sustainability, as reflected through their health, happiness and productivity. Furthermore, both trust in service robots and perceived organisational innovativeness emerged as significant mediators in these relationships. In addition, the strength of these relationships varied across managerial and non-managerial employees, highlighting the contingent role of employee type in shaping career sustainability outcomes in robot-enabled workplaces. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for HR professionals, technology managers and policymakers by underscoring the need for role-sensitive implementation strategies when introducing collaborative robots. Tailoring trust-building and innovation initiatives according to employee roles can help ensure that automation supports, rather than undermines, sustainable career development. Originality/value This study advances the human-centred automation literature by introducing employee type as a critical boundary condition in the relationship between collaborative robotics and career sustainability. Through a multidisciplinary and mixed-methods approach, it offers nuanced theoretical and practical contributions to understanding differential employee experiences in technologically augmented work environments. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Psychological safety and employee development: the role of energy at work in strengthening job embeddedness in Indian luxury hotels
Purpose This study aims to investigate how psychological safety impacts the levels of energy felt at work, and vice versa, whether energy acts as a mediator between psychological safety and the multiple dimensions of job embeddedness that include organizational, community fit, sacrifice and link. Design/methodology/approach The data had been gathered from 458 hotel employees with the help of a structured questionnaire consisting of established scales of psychological safety and energy at work and, additionally, job embeddedness. A set of statistical analyses, including confirmatory factor analysis and hypothesis testing, were used to test the validity and reliability of the measurement model. Findings The findings affect training and development practices in the hospitality industry. This is especially true for leadership development, resilience training and learning programs that promote psychological safety and help keep employees for the long term. Originality/value This study contributes to the existing literature by providing important information about the psychological and energetic factors that impact job embeddedness, which would contribute to enhanced employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness in the hospitality industry. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Entropy generation analysis for nanofluid flow in a stationary cone-disk system
Purpose Cone-disk systems have applications in industrial, pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. This study aims to develop a mathematical model to study the heat and mass transfer characteristics of TiO2-H2O nanofluid flow in a stationary cone-disk system (SCDS), considering the modified Buongiorno nanofluid model (MBNM). The research provides new insights into the effects of swirling flow, nanoparticle interactions, heat/mass transfer features and entropy production in an SCDS. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the MBNM with experimental correlations for the nanofluids viscosity and thermal conductivity. The mathematical model comprises of NavierStokes momentum equation, convection-diffusion equation for the energy and nanoparticle volume fraction and the incompressibility constraint equation. The governing equations, along with the relevant boundary conditions, are transformed from partial differential form to ordinary differential form using the self-similar transformations derived through Lie-group theory. The resulting two-point boundary value problem is solved numerically. A second-law thermodynamic analysis is conducted to investigate the entropy generation within the system. In addition, desirability function and response surface methodology are used to simultaneously optimize the rate of heat and nanoparticle mass transfer on the disk surface. Findings The results reveal that non-swirling flow conditions lead to higher rates of heat and nanoparticle mass transfer compared to swirling flows. Parametric analysis demonstrates the influence of key nanofluid parameters on entropy generation and transport phenomena. Optimal values of three influential parameters were identified to maximize heat and mass transport at the disk surface. Originality/value This research offers a novel application of the modified Buongiorno model in the context of an SCDS. To the best of the authors knowledge, no prior studies have examined entropy generation in the SCDS configuration while simultaneously performing a sensitivity analysis aimed at optimizing heat and mass transfer. The findings contribute to improved thermal system designs in nanofluid-based applications. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Facilitating career decisions through servant leadership: a moderated mediation approach
Purpose In the context of management educations growing emphasis on employability and student-centered pedagogy, this study aims to explore how faculty mentors servant leadership fosters career development outcomes among postgraduate students in the discipline of management. Specifically, it examines the direct influence of servant leadership on students career exploration self-efficacy and career decidedness, the mediating role of career exploration self-efficacy and the moderating effect of students feedback-seeking behavior. Design/methodology/approach Survey data were collected from 428 final-year postgraduate students belonging to the management discipline across Indian business schools using a structured questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypothesized relationships through the partial least squares approach (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS (version 4.1.0.8) software. Findings The results demonstrate that servant leadership has a significant positive effect on students career exploration self-efficacy and career decidedness. Career exploration self-efficacy mediates this link, while feedback-seeking behavior enhances the relationship between servant leadership and self-efficacy. Practical implications The study provides insights for business schools, management educators and human resource professionals. Encouraging faculty to adopt servant leadership practices can build students confidence in exploring career paths and making informed career decisions. In addition, cultivating a culture of feedback-seeking among students can further strengthen the developmental impact of faculty mentorship and enhance self-awareness. These findings align with the goals of responsible management education and contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4): Quality Education. Originality/value This study extends the career self-management (CSM) model into the context of management education and training. By highlighting the combined roles of servant leadership, career exploration self-efficacy and feedback-seeking behavior, it offers a fresh perspective on how faculty mentoring can enhance student employability and career readiness. Emerald Publishing Limited -
I am less biased than others: themediating effect of career exploration on decision styleandbiasblind spot
Purpose: This study primarily investigated the tendency of management students to exhibit bias blind spots on three biases related to career decision-making. Second, it also explores how different decision styles, namely rational and intuitive, relate to bias blind spots, considering career exploration as a key factor that might influence this relationship. Design/methodology/approach: To gather data from 277 second-year MBA students specializing in management and business administration from two southern states of India. SPSS software was used to measure the bias blind spot score, and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. Findings: The research findings highlight that students exhibit a bias blind spot tendency during self and environment exploration, and the decision styles indirectly affect bias blind spots through the mediating effects of career exploration. Originality/value: These findings have implications for future research in career psychology, career guidance, and social psychology and for developing interventions to enhance career exploration behavior and decision-making styles to mitigate cognitive biases in career decision-making. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Exploring cybernetic approaches to sustainable co-working spaces in emerging economies: a sentiment analysis
Purpose In quest of achieving long-term sustainability of co-working spaces (CWSs) and drawing on the cybernetic principles, this study aims to develop a resilient business model promoting economic viability, encouraging environmental responsibility and reinforcing its social impact. Furthermore, to address the transformative shift in way people work in emerging economies, this study probed respondents from India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) and finally identified critical challenges and opportunities bringing in maximum customer satisfaction and achieving long-term business profitability. Design/methodology/approach Using a multi-method qualitative triangulation approach (sentiment analysis), the study collected primary data from India and UAE, analysed through the grounded theory approach. Whereas secondary data in form of tweets was tested using text-mining approach using NVivo. The findings from the dual study were corroborated to identify common dimensions, leading to the development of a hypothetical framework. Findings In CWSs business, dynamic organisation culture holds key in fostering future sustainability, and the study has explored its important antecedents like adaptive management, continuous innovation and technological integration. The impact of these antecedents was found to be moderated by two critical dimensions of regulatory challenges and competitive landscape. Furthermore, the study delved into connecting with the principles of circular economy moderating the impact of dynamic organisation culture towards long-term sustainability of CWSs. Practical implications This study applies cybernetic principles alongside shared and circular economy frameworks to assess consumer perceptions of CWSs. The insights generated can guide researchers, entrepreneurs, urban planners and policymakers in designing flexible business models, strengthening community networks and exploring diverse revenue streams to enhance resilience and long-term growth. Originality/value This research provides empirical evidence on the sustainability dynamics of CWSs, offering a balanced perspective on overcoming challenges and leveraging growth opportunities. Additionally, it bridges the concepts of cybernetics, shared economy and circular economy, presenting a novel framework for ensuring the sustainable development of CWS businesses. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Green is the new beautiful: exploring the role of sustainability in building brand equity in cosmetic brands
Purpose This study investigates how embracing environmental responsibility and eco-friendly innovation in cosmetic brands cultivates brand equity. It specifically explores the mediating roles of a green brand image and consumer trust in driving sustainable value creation through these initiatives. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design was employed using survey data from 326 online respondents, mainly young and educated females. A structured questionnaire with Likert-scale items adapted from validated studies measured environmental responsibility, eco-friendly product innovation, green brand image, consumer trust and buying engagement. Data analysis included reliability testing, factor analysis and structural equation modeling with bootstrapping to examine direct and mediating relationships. Findings The study results show that perceived environmental responsibility strongly predicts buying engagement and significantly improves green brand image and consumer trust. Eco-friendly product innovation positively influences consumer trust but does not directly strengthen green brand image, indicating that innovation alone is insufficient without clear communication. Green brand image and consumer trust act as key mediators influencing buying engagement. Originality/value This study presents an empirically validated framework explaining how perceived environmental responsibility and eco-friendly innovation enhance brand equity. It highlights the distinct mediating roles of green brand image and consumer trust, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication in aligning sustainability initiatives with consumer perceptions and supporting informed strategic decision-making. Naveen Kumar R, Neerupa C, Muthukrishnan R, Vengatesan G and Muthu Kumar T -
Social entrepreneurship on a crossroad: the case of Sunbird Straws
Learning outcomes: The learning objectives are intended to stimulate the students comprehension of the various challenges faced by Indian social entrepreneurs. The case study offers a rich educational experience spanning diverse fields, including business operations, entrepreneurship, sustainable products, social innovation and financial planning. The case study on social entrepreneurship will guide students to comprehend its concept, significance, challenges and understand how businesses can be a force for positive social impact. The case study serves as a valuable tool for graduate students, helping them improve their critical thinking and solution-focused skills in preparation for their future entrepreneurial endeavors. Students should be able to analyze the case study, answer questions and evaluate the co-founders business expansion dilemma. Case overview/synopsis: Social entrepreneurs are vital in tackling pressing societal issues, fostering innovation and creating lasting solutions for rural communities. However, their unique challenges often go unnoticed. This case study highlights the journey of Dr Saji Kurungatil Varghese, the co-founder of Sunbird Straws, an eco-friendly startup, and the complexities they faced while considering business expansion. The purpose of this case study is to provide insight into the world of social entrepreneurs and emphasize their importance and contribution on a wide scale. Complexity academic level: This case study is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Supplementary materials: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code: CSS3: Entrepreneurship. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Did we just open a can of worms?
Learning outcomes: The case study intends to explain attrition and employee engagement & its impact on attrition. The case discussions enable students/learners to identify and analyze factors that lead to attrition and affect employee engagement, most of which are not easily recognizable. The deliberations will help students/learners appreciate the importance of employee engagement for the employee and the organization. Case overview/synopsis: The case study is an original story about a company in Hyderabad in the telecom infrastructure industry with an illustrative scenario on facing high attrition. The case study delves into the underlying factors influencing employee satisfaction and attrition, emphasizing the importance of effective HR strategies in managing employees. The critical implications of this case can be used to teach the essence of employee satisfaction and employee engagement and their role in prevention of attrition or employee turnover and concepts related to them. Through qualitative research methods, the insights gathered from employees and management of the company provide important lessons to learners on shaping HR practices that prioritize long-term retention and taking care of employees. Ultimately, the companys experience serves as a compelling illustration of the challenges facing organizations in todays dynamic work environment. Complexity academic level: The case is of medium difficulty and can be used for post graduate students/entry level HR practitioners who have a basic understanding of Human Resource Management concepts and theories. Supplementary material: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code: CSS 6: Human Resource Management. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Rebel Foods: Pioneer in Indian internet restaurant and cloud kitchen
Learning outcomes The learning outcomes are as follows: to identify the potential for disruptive innovation in the changing dynamics of the online food industry with the emergence of technology; to examine appropriate responses to emerging disruptive (environmental) threats in developing a sustainable food retail business; to evaluate the process of executing change management within the organisation, as per the dynamic external business environment; and to develop marketing and distribution strategies that can be created based on a competitive business environment by applying disruptive technological initiatives. Case overview/synopsis Rebel Foods Private Limited was one of the largest internet restaurant and cloud kitchen companies, founded by Jaydeep Barman and Kallol Banerjee in 2016. Rebel Foods had established its presence in 70 cities owing to its extensive network of 450 cloud kitchens with more than 4, 000 internet restaurants. It was involved in all three steps of the food on demand industry: ordering, distribution and order fulfillment. Faasos (earlier name of Rebel Foods) had invested around four years in the restaurant industry using the brick-and-mortar format, slowly shifting to the online business model. Due to the spread of the COVID-19 virus in March 2020, Rebel Foods closed 70% of its kitchens and began selling do-it-yourself meal kits. After the pandemic, the kitchens at Rebel Foods used cutting-edge technology such as robotics, drum machines, automatic Tawas (pans) and auto fryers. The chefs at Rebel Foods had automated the cooking process using modern technology like computer vision and artificial intelligence. Despite all efforts, the companys operating revenue had dropped by 27.5% during FY21 to reach 405.1 crore INR, down from 558.7 crore INR in FY20. Sales have also been declining in the past few years. Complexity academic level The learners can be early-career entrepreneurs operating in the food industry and/or enrolled in postgraduate or short-term management programs. The case can also be used in Executive MBA courses in Strategic Management, Marketing Management and Entrepreneurship Management. Supplementary material Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 8: Marketing. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Paytms crossroads: an analysts dilemma
Learning outcomes: This case study enables participants to:??To understand the fintech landscape in India and assess how market dynamics can impact Paytms valuation.??To evaluate the drivers affecting the value of Paytm and arrive at Paytms valuation.??To critically appraise the investment decision made. Case overview/synopsis: Rajani Chandran, a seasoned financial analyst, relooks her recommendation of Paytm in light of the recent revocation of its Payment Bank License. Paytm, the flagship service of One97 Communications Ltd., a financial technology company, is a pioneer in the Indian digital payments and financial services market. However, the developments post going public in 2021 were not always favorable. The frequent fallout with Reserve Bank of India brought restrictions on onboarding new customers and ultimately the revocation of the license. This drastic move is of huge concern to those who have invested in the company. Thus, given this backdrop, Rajani initially explored the dynamic landscape of the Indian digital payments and fintech industry, considering macroeconomic factors, competition and regulatory dynamics. She delved into Paytms financial performance to gauge its position in the market. The next phase of the careful scrutiny involved arriving at the equity value of the venture using the discounted cash flow model. Finally, Rajani critically appraised the drivers of valuation, incorporating both quantitative and the story she has crafted around Paytm. Consequently, participants in this case study are prompted to evaluate Paytm and arrive at a valuation and furnish a comprehensive recommendation based on their analyses, thus understanding the intricacies of evaluating a fintech company with immense potential. This case study serves as a valuable resource for students seeking to comprehend the complexities of financial analysis and valuation within the context of a dynamic and evolving industry landscape. Complexity academic level: The case is best suited for a course on Financial Statement Analysis while discussing how the financial statements of new-age tech companies can be analyzed and Business Valuation while introducing DCF valuation. The case serves as a comprehensive example of the multifaceted challenges and considerations that a buy-side analyst should have while valuing a company and pitching an investment within the fintech industry. Designed for second-year MBA students, the case assumes familiarity with financial reporting and strategic management concepts such as Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental (PESTLE) and strength, weakness, opportunity and threat (SWOT) analyses and Business Canvas Model. Supplementary material: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code: CSS 1: Accounting and Finance. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Entrepreneurial journey of Rajat: from coffee to confidence
Learning outcomes The case was developed to explore principles of Effectuation, the traits, and external challenges faced by the entrepreneurs in small business. The main outcomes of this case are to: Compare and contrast the principles of effectuation, opportunity cost-based theory, and social capital theory, given the challenges faced by the protagonist. Critically analyze the risks associated with businesses and the factors that motivate entrepreneurs to take that risk. Critically evaluate which entrepreneurial traits were most crucial to Rajats journey, and contrast them with the traits highlighted in the literature on entrepreneurs in emerging markets. Create key strategic directions the Protagonist could explore after getting permission to start. Develop a business model canvas and a comprehensive business plan that would help the protagonist to pitch for his caf The business plan should include market analysis, financial planning, operations, and risk management. Case overview/synopsis The case explored the journey of a young entrepreneur and the challenges faced throughout his journey. Rajat started his career as an employee in a bakery and dreamt of having his own business one day. Initially, Rajat faced various challenges, which offered him a very good learning experience and shaped his entrepreneurial traits. Just before COVID-19, he was successful in opening his bakery near the University. The business failed miserably as the model was not effective during the lockdown period imposed due to the pandemic. He lost not only the money invested but also the trust of his close social network. He went back to his job and continued there for a significant period of time. He learnt more about the tricks of the trade and the market while in a job. It took nine years to gather the courage to venture once again into the uncertainty of an entrepreneurial journey. Never giving up, persistence, growth mindset, customer centricity, and pleasing personality were some of the traits that he had developed over a period of time. He looked forward to opening his cafinside the Universitys new campus. His proposal was initially declined by the University management when he approached them for the first time. This did not discourage him, and he continued to believe in his ability and instincts. He decided to approach the management once again to start his cafin the new campus of Yeshwanthpur. This time, it was not a denial (at least he thought so), but also not a very clear yes. Rajat now found himself in a dilemma: should he approach the management once again, possibly with a stronger business plan, though this might again involve seeking financial help from his family? The other two options were to continue at his current job till he gets a better opportunity to shift, and the last option was to return to his hometown to help his father in the catering business, a less trendy but potentially stable one. Complexity academic level This case is intended for the students of Entrepreneurship and Strategy in undergraduate and postgraduate courses. This case demonstrated how persistence and self-motivation enable people to become successful entrepreneurs. The case could also be used for understanding entrepreneurship challenges and the traits of an entrepreneur. Supplementary material Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Going beyond tomato a fruit or vegetable debate: economic and policy challenges in tomato farming in India
Learning outcomes: The case was an application of a market demand and supply mechanism and its impact on the products price and focus on the following objectives:??Analyze the vegetable market in India and the challenges faced by the farmers (tomatoes) using demand and supply concepts.??Examine the impact of price elasticity on the revenue of the farmers.??Assess the challenges faced by the government in controlling prices of vegetables and food inflation.??Evaluate diversification strategies in agriculture to mitigate risk. Case overview/synopsis: The market for tomatoes was highly cyclical because of erratic rainfall, and farmers went through a difficult time, especially when the prices fell below the cost of production. They moved out for crops that had stable prices. They expected government support for price stability. Government and policymakers considered price fluctuations a short-term phenomenon that required limited interventions when prices were high. This case was about Dilip, a farmer who was into farming tomatoes on a large scale in Karnataka, India. He was facing a dilemma as to whether he had to continue or move to other crops because of the low price of tomatoes in May 2023 or to diversify into some small but related business. He was worried at the same time, curious to understand the volatility in the prices of tomatoes, government responses, risks and returns associated with the cultivation of this crop and Agri-supply chain. Based on his understanding, he should make decisions to continue or diversify into some other farming or related business. Complexity academic level: This case was written for microeconomics and managerial economics of undergraduate and postgraduate students. This case demonstrates the application of the demand and supply mechanism for a perishable product such as tomatoes. Price fluctuations are common in these markets because of various uncontrollable factors such as rain, pests and natural calamities. The case could show the relationship between the firms elasticities and revenue. This case also highlights the policy constraints in controlling the prices in the short run. This case could also be used for understanding macroeconomic concepts such as food inflation and its impact on general price inflation. The students or target audience with a background in the functioning of the markets could very well relate to the concepts discussed. Supplementary material: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject Code: CSS: Entrepreneurship (3); Management Science (7). 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Between home and enterprise: the Swakruta dilemma of scaling women entrepreneurs
Learning outcomes After completing the case study, the learners will be able to: Analyze how deep-rooted socio-cultural and family expectations create systemic barriers for small women entrepreneurs in India. Apply social identity theory to design interventions that reshape self-perception and entrepreneurial identity among Swakruta women entrepreneurs. Evaluate the influence of loss aversion on womens entrepreneurial decision-making and develop the nudging strategies to encourage women to engage with large opportunities. Case overview/synopsis This case explored the challenges faced by Manik Patwardhan, founder of Swakruta Charitable Trust, which supported over 200 small and marginal women entrepreneurs in Bengaluru. Despite training and opportunities provided, many women were hesitated to accept large, profitable orders due to socio-cultural norms and financial constraints. Using social identity theory, loss aversion and nudging, the case highlighted how strong family responsibilities and societal expectations influenced their cautious approach in scaling up their businesses. The women need to balance family responsibilities with business growth, which restricted their willingness to take risks. Their concerns ranged from balancing family duties and managing time, to addressing uncertainty by hiring staff other than family members, trust issues and difficulties in arranging upfront funds. Upon reviewing their response, Manik realised that these entrepreneurs were hesitant to accept a lucrative order. At this critical point, she had to decide whether to let the order go or encourage and nudge the women to seize a career-transforming opportunity, despite the risks involved. Accepting the order could boost earnings and reputation, but failure could harm the NGOs credibility, and declining the order could jeopardise future prospects. What should she do? Complexity academic level This case is designed for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship and related business disciplines such as behavioural economics. It focuses on the challenges and barriers faced by women entrepreneurs that limit their growth and ability to scale their businesses. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
The talent compass: guiding workforce realignment at Vertex Engineering
Learning outcomes After discussing this case, students will be able to apply the Competency Mapping framework to design redeployment and reskilling strategies for displaced employees; analyze workforce realignment challenges through the lens of Strategic Workforce Planning (SWP) models; evaluate HRs strategic role in balancing financial constraints with talent retention using evidence-based reasoning; assess the risks and outcomes of alternative workforce planning models and propose suitable HR interventions; and design an integrated competency assessment and performance evaluation framework to prepare the organization for future transitions. Case overview/synopsis In early 2023, Suresh Nair, Deputy General Manager of Human Resources at Vertex Engineering, a medium-sized firm in Indias construction equipment sector, faced a major workforce challenge. The company decided to sell its Core Manufacturing Plant, whose capacity utilization had fallen from 85% in 2010 to 50% in 2023. Out of 500 affected employees, 250 were transferred to the acquiring company, while the remaining 250 required redeployment, reskilling or release. This case study explores how Vertex can strategically realign its workforce through the application of Strategic Workforce Planning (SWP) and Competency Mapping frameworks. It emphasizes the HR functions evolving role from administrative redeployment to strategic capability building within an environment of technological change, cost pressure and labor volatility. The protagonist, Suresh Nair, must navigate conflicting priorities between cost reduction advocated by the CFO and the COOs emphasis on talent retention as a long-term competitive asset. Complexity academic level Graduate and under-graduate level Supplementary material Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 6: Human Resource Management. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited