| 1. |
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| 2. |
- Abraha, Desalegn, et al.
(author)
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Relationships and Networks in the Processes of Establishment of Firms in Transitional Economies : The case of Scandinavian firms in Eastern and Central Europe
- 2006
-
Reports (pop. science, debate, etc.)abstract
- Focus on the particular entry mode a firm uses to enter a new market, rather than the process of establishment dominates in extant literature. To fill this void, we apply an establishment process model developed from the network approach to illuminate the web of relationship forms embedded in the establishment process of two Scandinavian firms as they attempt to establish themselves in transition economies. In one case, the results show that Statoil’s process of establishment in Estonia was less time- and resource-consuming because the firm drew support from significant actors in their network of exchange relationships. In the second case, a lack of home and host country support for Scania in Croatia resulted in an arduous and costly process and less stable position in the market, with the firm’s position changing several times as different problems cropped up. In light of the findings from the two cases, theoretical and practical implications for managing the establishment process are discussed.
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| 3. |
- Awuah, Gabriel Baffour, et al.
(author)
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Interactive internationalization : the case of Swedish firms
- 2007
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The extant literature stresses that having foreign market presence is imperative for most firms these days. However, how firms conceive of which foreign markets to enter, the entry mode to take and the resource commitments to make are not information or decision-making processes solely confined to a firm that internationalizes its activities. The purpose of this study is to provide deeper insights into (1) reasons for a firm to internationalize its business activities and (2) the extent to which an independent actor (s) actively collaborates with the internationalizing firm so as to jointly determine the choice of market, the mode of entry and the level of investment committed in the market to be entered and even after the entry (i.e. the on-going activities). Based on two multiple case studies, one major finding of the study shows that independent actors, with their interconnected networks, have played and are still playing a major role in influencing the internationalization processes of each of the two firms in this study.
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| 4. |
- Awuah, Gabriel Baffour, et al.
(author)
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Interactive (networked) internationalization : the case of Swedish firms
- 2011
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In: European Journal of Marketing. - UK : Emerald Group Publishing Limited. - 0309-0566 .- 1758-7123. ; 45:7-8, s. 1112-1129
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose - The purpose of this study is to provide deeper insights into the extent to which an independent actor(s) actively collaborates with the internationalizing firm so as to jointly determine the choice of market, the mode of entry and the level of investment committed in the market to be entered and even after the entry (i.e. the ongoing activities). Design/methodology/approach - Against the previous purpose section, a qualitative research approach is selected to guide the exploratory nature of this study. Thus qualitative data are used to build the two case studies because case studies are generally a more appropriate approach when "how" and "why" questions are being posed and when the investigator has little control over events. Findings - Based on two multiple case studies, one major finding of the study shows that independent actors, with their interconnected networks, have played and are still playing a major role in influencing the internationalization processes of each of the two firms in this study. Originality/value - This is an original paper developed based on two case studies which have not been published in any journal before. The paper highlights the role of external independent actors in internationalization, which is not mentioned at all or stressed in the extant literature.
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
- Awuah, Gabriel Baffour, et al.
(author)
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Relationships and Networks in the Processes of Establishment of Firms in Transition Economies : Scandinavian Firms in Central and Eastern Europe
- 2008
-
In: International Journal of Strategic Management. - Turlock, CA : International Academy of Business and Economics (IABE). - 1555-2411 .- 2378-8615. ; 8:1, s. 25-44
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A focus on the particular entry mode a firm uses to enter a new market, rather than on the process of establishment, dominates in extant literature. To fill this void, we apply an establishment process model developed from the network approach to illuminate the web of relationship forms embedded in the establishment process of two Scandinavian firms as they attempt to establish themselves in transition economies. In one case, the results show that Statoil's process of establishment in Estonia was both less time-consuming and less resource-consuming because the firm drew support from significant actors in their network of exchange relationships. In the second case, a lack of home and host country support for Scania in Croatia resulted in an arduous and costly process and less stable position in the market, with the firm's position changing several times as different problems cropped up. In light of the findings from the two cases, theoretical and practical implications for managing the establishment process are discussed.
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| 7. |
- Awuah, Gabriel, et al.
(author)
-
Interactive (Networked) Internationalization : The Case of Swedish Firms
- 2007
-
In: Bringing the country back in. - Indianapolis : Academy of International Business. ; , s. 139-139
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The extant literature stresses that having foreign market presence is imperative for most firms these days. However, how firms conceive of which foreign markets to enter, the entry mode to take and the resource commitments to make are not information or decision-making processes solely confined to a firm that internationalizes its activities. The purpose of this study is to provide deeper insights into the extent to which an independent actor (s) actively collaborates with the internationalizing firm so as to jointly determine the choice of market, the mode of entry and the level of investment committed in the market to be entered and even after the entry (i.e. the on-going activities). Based on two multiple case studies, one major finding of the study shows that independent actors, with their interconnected networks, have played and are still playing a major role in influencing the internationalization processes of each of the two firms in this study.
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| 8. |
- Bennani, Az-Eddine, et al.
(author)
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An empirical study on the propensity of information technology use by hotels in France
- 2006
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In: Mediterranean Conference on Information Systems. ; , s. 10-
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Extant literature has, to date, focused almost entirely on the use of interpersonal buyer-seller interactions during the process of creating service outcomes. This paper aims to fill this void by contributing to extant knowledge on customer interactions with technology-based self-service delivery options. The extent to which technological interface that enables customers to produce a service independent of a direct service employee involvement is used by hotels of various categories in France is, thus highlighted in this paper. It is, however, assumed in this paper that there can be significant dissimilarities in the response time when using e-mails to communicate with customers. These dissimilarities are investigated on the basis of an e-mailing action that encompasses sending a typical room-booking request to French hotels. Exhaustive samples of 240 hotels spread out in 120 cities located in France constituted the target group. One-way ANOVA testing differences between means was used to assess the impact of the hotel category (independent variable) on response time (dependent variable) among hotels in France. Our findings found significant dissimilarity in responsiveness across hotels categories. The implication of the findings for management is basically the fact that responsiveness is most likely the first step in providing good quality technology-based buyer-seller interactions to create service outcomes using the Internet/e-mail. One of the major concepts in customer relationship management is speed at which firms respond to questions and problems during the service encounter. Keywords: information and communication technology (ICT), Buyer-seller interactions, Internet/e-mail, technology-based self-service delivery options, responsiveness.
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| 9. |
- Berggren Newton, Benny
(author)
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Business Basics : A Grounded Theory for Managing Ethical Behavior in Sales Organizations
- 2021
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Background: Managing co-workers’ ethical behavior in sales organizations is a complex social process. To start, sales organizations incorporate several actors to manage, often simultaneously, all with their own agendas. Ethics as a topic is convoluted because it encompasses context-based scenarios which may not have clear-cut right and wrong answers. The management process is an ongoing task managers deal with on daily basis, where mismanagement can lead to severe consequences. The majority of existing research on this area tends to focus on single factors in the management process, not the whole process. While there are some research studies that presents models or integrated frameworks describing the management process, they are few in number.Aim: The aim of this study is to derive empirical concepts and thereby try to develop a theory to facilitate an understanding of the process of managing co-workers’ ethical behavior, where the purpose is to ultimately build an integrated framework. More specifically, this study aims to describe the involved actors’ main concerns and the process by which these are continuously resolved.Methodology: In order to achieve the aim, a method with an inductive approach was necessary. The orthodox Grounded Theory methodology was chosen as research approach since it can generate conceptualizations in an integrated framework which help explain the occurring social processes. Working from this approach means that the researcher develops a new theory that is grounded in empirical data, where the researcher inductively describes the social process. The empirical data was mainly derived from interviews with actors within the field. The data was collected, coded and conceptualized in an overlapping procedure until an empirically derived theory emerged After the emergence of the theory, the empirical data was validated with existing academic literature.Findings: The core category in this study is Business Basics and concerns the desire to continuously conduct business where the management of ethical behavior is a fundamental basis to achieve this. Five distinct categories, all related to the core category were revealed: Bureaucratization, Relationship Investing, Educationing, Monetary Managing and Intuiting. These categories are expressed in social and dynamic processes. They represent different activities, tools, influences and practices that managers can adopt in order to reach their main concern.Contribution: As a contribution, this dissertation provides an integrated framework based on the actors own subjective experiences, describing the dynamic and social processes of managing co-workers ethical behavior in sales organizations.
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| 10. |
-
Business and Development in Africa
- 2009
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Editorial collection (other academic/artistic)abstract
- A SPECIAL EDITION ON BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA: Changes in the global economic landscape, the comparatively unrestrained flow of resources across the boundaries of nation states, as well as, the growing expansion of the overseas activities of many companies through out the world has stimulated an increased interest in examining business strategies. Africa, along with China, is in the forefront of current global business discussions. Once discounted, to “third world” status, discoveries of large quantities of oil have made Africa a player in the global economy. While these discoveries add to the comparative advantages of African countries, the intense competition brought on by globalization and trade liberalization, trade liberalization and the integration of of world markets challenge us to critically examine the ways in which African countries can contribute to trade and socio-economic growth globally, and the impact of such locally. Comprising a part of the world economy that has approximately 900 million people and 52 nations, Africa represents, potentially some of the most important growth opportunities in today’s economy. A diverse group of economies and societies, developing nations, in general and African countries, in particular are an important testing ground for our existing theories, models and concepts of business and management. In addition, they offer the opportunity for the development of new theoretical contributions in the field of management and business studies. The goal of this special edition is to provide a forum on the latest thinking about business and development in Africa. This includes the growing paradox between development and the appropriation of resources; and between globalization and local development. The volume has been developed around several issues with papers in each area. A seminal work looks at early African contributions, particularly those of Ibn Khaldun, to theories of economic development which are based on competitive rather than monopoly capitalism and proposes policy implications. The role of intra-region trade is examined in a paper considering the effects of consumer ethnocentrism on trade between Mozambique and South Africa. Several papers in the edition address business and development in Sub-Saharan Africa, West Africa, South Africa and the COMESA region. Development is examined with respect to: Foreign Direct Investment flows and their effects on GDP, making use of growth accounting frameworks, the impact of trade liberalization and globalization on competition, the challenges facing entrepreneurs, and trends in the exchange rate in West African Economic and Monetary Union. The example of Botswana which has made great strides in transparency, GDP growth and literacy allowing it to become a model of good governance is presented. Other papers examine the importance of agricultural production for household security and income stability and some of the technical barriers which limit trade between African and European countries. The commercial production of medicinal plants and its potential for the semi-arid regions of Kenya is discussed. Another set of papers uses behavioral measures to understand business success: the knowledge transfer process and the motivation to perform are considered with respect to turnover and manager’s intention to stay, social performance measures are proposed. In addition to financial performance measures, and the social capabilities of African firms is suggested to be an important factor for narrowing the economic gap between African economies and other parts of the world. The edition includes perspectives on diverse issues. Together, they enrich our understanding of business in Africa and broaden the discussion of development and Africa´s place in the world economy. Thanks to the editors and their respective universities: Dr. Aihie Osarenkhoe of the University of Gävle, Dr. Gabriel Awuah of Halmstad University, and Dr. Sid Howard Credle of Hampton University. Sincerely, Professor C.B. Claiborne, Ph.D, Editor in Chief for International Journal of Business Research, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA.
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| 11. |
- Chowdhury, Ehsanul Huda, 1977-, et al.
(author)
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The Contribution of Innovation Hubs Towards Strengthening the Regional Development in Sweden
- 2023
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In: International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management (IJITM). - : World Scientific. - 0219-8770. ; 20:2, s. 1-20
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aim: This study aims to explore the influence of innovation hubs (IHs) on innovation-based regional development.Methodology: This study applied a qualitative approach using a multiple case study method to collect data through 10 semi-structured interviews. A detailed analysis of the data collected was conducted using the content analysis method.Findings: The study shows that IHs can influence both economic and social development. An IH can attract knowledge and expertise as well as investors to the region through its activities and geographical location. The hubs support start-ups, entrepreneurs and smart specialization at the same time as they also enable sustainable development by creating social value. Regions can exchange resources through cross-collaboration via IHs.Research Implications: This study has important theoretical managerial and societal implications. It adds comprehensive knowledge to the existing theory on IHs and regional development by highlighting the influence of IHs on regional development. The study shows both economic and social influence in detail and points out a previously undiscussed concept in the context of the correlation between IHs and regional development.
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| 12. |
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| 13. |
- Eklinder-Frick, Jens Ola, et al.
(author)
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Digitalization efforts in liminal space : inter-organizational challenges
- 2020
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In: Journal of business & industrial marketing. - : Emerald. - 0885-8624 .- 2052-1189. ; 35:1, s. 150-158
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the benefits and drawbacks that strategically imposed liminality inflicts upon inter-organizational digitalization efforts within the different phases of its utilization.Design/methodology/approach: This study empirically examines digitalization in a large multinational manufacturing company, Sandvik Machining Solutions, using data that were collected through interviews and a qualitative research design.Findings: This study shows that a liminal space separated from the structures in which one is supposed to inflict changes increases the risk of developing an incompatible system that will be rejected in the incorporation phase. An inter-organizational perspective on liminality thus contributes to our understanding of the benefits and drawbacks that liminal space can pose for the organizations involved.Practical implications: The study suggests that, in the separation phase, driving change processes by creating liminal spaces could be a way to loosen up rigid resource structures and circumvent network over-embeddedness. Finding the right amount of freedom, ambiguity and community within the liminal space is, however, essential for the transition of information as well as the incorporation of the imposed changes.Originality/value: Introducing an inter-organizational perspective on liminality contributes to our understanding of the stress that liminal space can place on individuals as well as the individual organization.
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| 14. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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A Conceptual Framework Enabling Understanding of Customer Satisfaction Drivers of Digitalised Vendor Managed Inventory
- 2018
-
In: Conference Book of Abstract Proceedings. ; , s. 4-4
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This work responds to calls for more studies on customer satisfaction drivers associated with Industrial Vending Solutions (a unique form of vendor-managed inventory) implementation. It identifies key drivers of customer satisfaction and positive service quality perception as well as trust and commitment indicators for business-to-business industrial vending systems by asking: How is the customers perceived service quality impacted by the suppliers execution of the IVS dimensions and what customer satisfaction drivers can be derived? Through an explanatory approach, qualitative data on multiple cases was gathered. 14 in-depth semi-structured interviews were held with customers. We draw upon the consumer satisfaction paradigm to analyse post-usage satisfaction with application service providers services. Solution characteristics of industrial vending systems impact service quality perception through compliance with customer requirements. Customer satisfaction drivers were identified for the investigated industrial vending system, the most important being efficiency, user-friendliness and timeliness. Further, the presence of trust in customer-supplier relationships positively impacts trust and commitment intentions. A conceptual framework builds on knowledge on customer satisfaction which managers can incorporate into the value promise design, product development and marketing strategies.
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| 15. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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Critical role of cluster organisations to overcome SMEs´ liabilities of size, resources, newness, and foreignness in their internationalisation
- 2022
-
In: International Conference Proceedings. - 9789899121133 ; , s. 111-112
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The purpose of the study is to find out how clusters can assist small- and medium enterprises (SME) s to expand their business to the international market. A qualitative approach was used in this study where the primary data was collected from five cluster organizations in the region of Gävleborg in Sweden with ten semi structured interviews with key personals in the five cluster organizations. The analysis was done with the help of concepts identified in the literature as well as new themes that was found in the empirical investigation. The findings in this study have shown that the clusters can provide support to the SMEs to overcome obstacles related to capital, learning, innovation, networking, sales and strategy. The clusters can also help the SMEs in terms of sustainability. The weakest link is to help the SMEs to gain social capital where the clusters abilities are low. Each cluster has their niche competence so a collaboration within the clusters is required to help the SMEs in their international journey. The study extends the knowledge around the support system known as clustering as the study shows that only one cluster may not be able to help the SMEs in all the given areas required for their internationalization but a collaboration between clusters can help the SMEs to overcome most of the barriers towards internationalization. Future studies can focus on longitudinal research in this area to be able to follow the journey of the SMEs between the clusters but also to be able to capture and compare if the SMEs and cluster are experiencing the same pros and cons of the support system. We also suggest replicating this study in another region of Sweden to see if the results can be generalized or if it is a very local context regarding the help the SMEs can receive for internationalization.
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| 16. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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Enablers of international product customisation strategy - a Swedish case
- 2023
-
In: International Journal of Business Environment. - : Inderscience. - 1740-0589 .- 1740-0597. ; 14:2, s. 240-276
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study is to understand what factors influence companies to customise products international customers and markets. A qualitative case study with semi-structured interviews was conducted at one multinational corporation to gain insights into its product customisation strategy. The findings demonstrate how internationalisation can impact product customisation and identify four factors in the customisation process: culture, internationalisation, knowledge transfer, and product strategy. Tailored marketing strategies that influenced the international product customisation strategy (IPCS) were used. This study augmented on our understanding of how product customisation impacts internationalisation and vice versa, revealing the importance of knowledge transfer in IPCS and its growing impact due to digitalisation. It also shows how both B2B marketing and a tailored marketing strategy are overarching themes in international product customisation, making it one of few studies to recognise the relevance of omnichannel strategy in the B2B market segment.
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| 17. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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Enablers of international product positioning strategy – A Swedish SME’s case
- 2022
-
In: International Conference Proceedings. - 9789899121133 ; , s. 111-112
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study aims to identify the main factors that SMEs need to consider when positioning a premium priced product in the international market. In addition, this study aims to acquire in-depth knowledge regarding the market conditions in Germany. This study follows a qualitative research method, where a Swedish SME Damasteel acts as the case company of the research. In addition to the case company, four of their German distributors were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. The data were processed and presented by dividing the findings into six different categories. The empirical findings suggest that the German kitchen knife market is rather competitive, however, there is still potential for further growth and demand has been growing during the past few years. Personalisation of the products is considered one of the current trends. High quality of a product is often linked with high price, therefore, the main factors justifying premium price are the brand name, origin of the product, and customisation. This study contributes to the existing literature by adding new knowledge regarding product positioning and pricing strategies in the German market from the perspective of a Swedish SME. This study highlights the importance of premium price when positioning a high-quality product, therefore, it suggests that a premium product cannot be targeted to a mass audience. Practical recommendations offer insight to the case company Damasteel of the local market conditions in Germany, by providing an overview of the competition and customers in this segment. The focus of this study was on a niche market without offering any detailed information of the different factors influencing the market itself. Future research could supply an insight into how to better target the final customers of a specific market, and how to market a premium priced product for them. In addition, the pricing methods of the new product planned to be launched by the case company Damasteel and the impact on the current sales could be further investigated.
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| 18. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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The Effect of Digital Marketing on Customer Relationship Management
- 2019
-
In: Proceedings. - : IBIMA. - 9780999855133 ; , s. 7612-7622
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This research examines the combination of social media and customer relationship management with the help of customer relationship performance and social customer relationship management capabilities in order to explore as if social media can be utilized as a constructive CRM instrument in business-to-business settings. Additionally, the research will disclose the positive or negative impact of the social media on customer relationship performance. During the research process, we interviewed digital marketing managers from four different small and medium sized organizations. The findings of our research shows that because of the companies’s less effective customer relationship management capabilities, the companies were not able to achieve customer relationship performance by utilizing social media. Additionally, we found that not only social media is the most effective instrument for CRM. We also found that there is no specific social media used by every company i.e. the efficiencies of social media platforms varies from company to company.
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| 19. |
- Fjellström, Daniella, et al.
(author)
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The Role of Digitalization in SMEs’ Strategy Development : The Case of Sweden
- 2020. - 1
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In: The Changing Role of SMEs in Global Business. - Cham : Palgrave Macmillan. - 9783030458317 - 9783030458300 ; , s. 65-88
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The diffusion of digital technologies has enabled a notable transformation in firms’ boundaries, processes, structures, roles, and interactions. This digital revolution affects a company as a whole, thereby redefining its strategies, entrepreneurial processes, and governance mechanisms or structures. The aim of this study is to understand how digitalization affects small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs’) marketing strategy. The study uses a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews. The findings demonstrate that digital marketing tools demand few resources and have a positive effect on competitive advantage. The study contributes to our knowledge on how small enterprises develop strategy, showing that they focus on customer preferences. It also shows the benefits of SME digital marketing where digitalizing an enterprise’s marketing activities helps to reduce costs and increase dynamic capabilities to maintain competitive advantage.
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| 20. |
- Fremont, Vincent, et al.
(author)
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Interaction through boundary objects : controversy and friction within digitalization
- 2019
-
In: Marketing Intelligence & Planning. - : Emerald Group Publishing Limited. - 0263-4503 .- 1758-8049. ; 37:1, s. 111-124
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze friction and controversies with interaction processes and their effects on forming new resource interfaces, through the lens of boundary objects. Design/methodology/approach The empirical setting consists of two organizations that are trying to enhance their competitive advantage through digitalization. During the process of data collection four different boundary objects were identified. The study illustrates how these boundary objects were characterized in terms of their modularity, standardization, abstractness and tangibility. This paper provides an analysis of how respondents perceived that the development of these boundary objects affected the creation of novel resource interfaces, and the resulting friction and controversy between new and old structures. Findings The study concludes that within a producer-user setting a focal boundary object will take on tangible and standardized properties, and the interaction process will expose friction in terms of both power struggles and resource incompatibilities. On the other hand, a boundary object's modularity gives the actors central to the interaction room to maneuver and avoid resource incompatibilities and the development setting will hence be characterized by controversies. Originality/value The analysis indicates that the way individuals perceive boundary objects is central to interaction processes, answering calls for studies that investigate the role of objects within subject-to-object interaction.
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| 21. |
- Fremont, Vincent, et al.
(author)
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Understanding interaction through boundary objects : How digitalization affects activity coordination
- 2017
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In: <em></em>.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study focus on analyzing interaction processes and their effects on activity coordination through the lens of boundary objects. The empirical setting is organizations that are trying to enhance their competitive advantage by technological innovation and the use of big data.This study also contributes by addressing the cognitive dimensions of interactions by analyzing how activity links are being viewed by the involved actors based on their perceptions of the boundary objects.
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| 22. |
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| 23. |
- Hinson, Robert, et al.
(author)
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Determinants of Bank Selection : A Study of Undergraduate Students in the University of Ghana
- 2013
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In: Journal of Service Science and Management. - : Scientific Research Publishing, Inc.. - 1940-9893 .- 1940-9907. ; 6:3, s. 197--205
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study is twofold: first, to investigate bank selection criteria among undergraduate students in the Uni- versity of Ghana, and second, to relate this study with previous findings on the same phenomenon. Extant studies have adopted mainly quantitative approach. In order to bridge this gap and contribute to existing knowledge, qualitatively inspired research design was adopted, thus facilitating in-depth understanding of the determinants of bank selection. Findings show that convenience, bank staff-customer relations and banking services/financial benefits are the first three most important determining factors. Furthermore, happiness, joyfulness, cheerfulness and delight are feelings derived after a banking service; whiles sadness, anger and deceit are avoided. Studies on the bank selection criteria employed by undergraduates are scanty in West Africa, and this study makes a contribution in that direction. Future studies will con- tinue from this one
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| 24. |
- Hyder, Akmal, et al.
(author)
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Partial or total integration in a cross-border merger? : Building a Nordic bank culture
- 2018
-
In: Thunderbird International Business Review. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1096-4762 .- 1520-6874. ; 60:4, s. 477-488
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The rate of failure for international mergers and acquisitions (M&As) is exceptionally high, since the integration of merging firms does not function well. Using a process perspective, this study aims to analyze the integration process in a cross-border merger and the development of a common organizational culture. A framework based on premerger cultural and organizational fit, synergy, and resulting organizational culture is developed to study the growth of Nordea, a merger of four Nordic banks. Data include in-depth interviews and secondary sources. This case study shows how cultural and managerial differences are dealt with and synergies realized. Building a broad organizational culture involving human resource management, decision making, technology, competitiveness, and customer relationships is necessary for merger integration, but it is costly and difficult. We suggest that success in mergers lies in managers creating a new cultural identity with unique values and perspectives.
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| 25. |
- Hyder, Akmal S., 1952-, et al.
(author)
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Cross-border merger among nordic banks : a longitudinal study
- 2017
-
In: Vision 2020. - : International Business Information Management Association (IBIMA). - 9780986041990 ; , s. 855-857
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Researchers have found that even international merger and acquisition (M&A) are popular, they usually fail for its complexity. A large number of studies looked on the failure from financial, non-financial, managerial and HRM perspectives, but reasons for the failure is not yet understood. Recently few studies have tried with process perspective to penetrate into merger integration without much success. We argue that focus on pre- and post-merger stages is good but not enough to provide a total picture of the process. This study uses a longitudinal approach to analyze the establishment, development and consolidation of a cross-border merger between banks from four Nordic countries. Based on theories on strategic motives and culture, a theoretical framework has been developed showing how merger can lead to better competitiveness and performance. By using a qualitative method, data has been collected through semi-structured interviews with officials from the merging firms, and secondary materials and documents during the period of 1997-2015. The merger process is described in four stages. The first stage deals with the initiation and establishment of the merger. Critical period and cultural clashes are covered in the next stage. The third stage concentrates on the development of synergy and other measures. The final stage reflects on how the process has consolidated and what result it has so far achieved.
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| 26. |
- Hyder, Akmal S., 1952-, et al.
(author)
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Cross-border merger among Nordic banks - a longitudinal study
- 2017
-
In: Global and national business theories and practice. - : EUROMED PRESS. - 9789963711567 ; , s. 2134-2136
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Researchers have found that even international mergers are popular, they usually fail for its complexity. Recently few studies have tried with process perspective to penetrate into merger integration without much success. We argue that focus on pre-and post-merger stages is good but not enough to provide a total picture of the process. By using a longitudinal approach this study analyzes the establishment, development and consolidation of a cross-border merger between banks from four countries. Based on theories on strategic motives and culture, a theoretical framework has been developed showing how merger process can lead to better competitiveness and performance. Data has been collected through semi-structured interviews with officials from the merging firms, and secondary materials during 1997-2015. The merger is described in four stages. The first stage deals with the initiation and establishment of the merger. Critical period and cultural clashes are covered in the next stage. The third stage concentrates on the development of synergy. The final stage reflects on how the process has consolidated and what result it has so far achieved.
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| 27. |
- Hyder, Akmal S., 1952-, et al.
(author)
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Medical tourism in emerging markets : The role of trust, networks, and word-of-mouth
- 2019
-
In: Health Marketing Quarterly. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0735-9683 .- 1545-0864. ; 36:3, s. 203-219
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Despite the growing popularity of medical tourism (MT) in emerging markets (EMs), little is known about how healthcare providers operationalize. This article analyzes how healthcare providers meet different challenges to market MT in an EM setting. A qualitative method was used for data collection and conducting case studies on healthcare services in the Philippines. The results show that trust and network building are necessary for mitigating the unfavorable characteristics, instability and lack of legitimacy caused by institutional constraints in EM. Word-of-mouth is found to be important to attract new customers and disseminate information about MT services.
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| 28. |
- Iddris, Faisal, 1977-
(author)
-
Innovation Capability within a Supply Chain Context
- 2018
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- A firm’s supply chain faces challenges relating to reducing operational cost while at the same time producing innovative products and services to meet consumers’ current and potential demand. One important phenomenon in the field of innovation research is the concept of innovation capability. The purpose of this thesis is to empirically explore innovation capability as a firm interacts with its supply chain members. In order to achieve the above stated purpose, the thesis attempted to answer the overarching research question: How does a focal firm’s interaction with its supply chain members affect its innovation capability?To answer the research question, a multiple method approach was adopted. This consists of two qualitative case studies, conceptual analysis, a quantitative study of a sample of 117 managers and systematic literature review (SLR). First; we used the systematic literature review (SLR) method to identify important innovation capability factors and theories applied in innovation capability studies. Second, multiple case studies were used to further investigate innovation capability in a supply chain context. Third, quantitative survey-method was used to explore innovation capability measures in the context of the supply chain.Five individual papers are presented in this thesis. The findings are summarised and presented in the cover (“kappa”) of the thesis. The findings revealed that focal firms’ innovation capability was influenced as a result of a focal firm’s interaction with its supply chain members. In addition, technological embeddedness influences innovation capability of the focal firms.
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| 29. |
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| 30. |
- Komunda, Mabel Birungi, et al.
(author)
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A Conceptual Framework to Unmask the Relationship between Marketing Mix Strategies, Marketing Culture and Sales Performance of Ugandan Manufacturing Firms
- 2023
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In: Journal of Service Science and Management. - : Scientific Research. - 1940-9893 .- 1940-9907. ; 16:06, s. 694-710
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The purpose of this paper was to study the relationship between marketing mix strategies, marketing culture and sales performance of Ugandan manufacturing firms. The study used a cross-sectional and quantitative design. Data was collected at a particular point in time. We employed firm-level data collected by means of a questionnaire survey sent to a sample of 118 of a total population of 178 manufacturing firms. The primary data was collected, coded; correlations and regression analysis were done using SPSS Version 21. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between marketing mix strategies and sales performance, marketing mix strategies and marketing culture, and marketing culture and sales performance; marketing culture explains more of the variation in sales performance. The use of cross-sectional and quantitative methodology limits the researcher’s ability to make causal inferences and to examine behavioural change over time. Nevertheless, the insight gained from the conceptual framework and ideas posited are useful for developing a future research agenda. There is need for manufacturing firms to promote and recognize marketing culture and marketing mix strategies among CEOs and sales representatives.
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| 31. |
- Komunda, Mabel Birungi, et al.
(author)
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Can Efficacious Service Recovery Enable Retention of Complaint-Averse Savvy Customers?
- 2023
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In: Journal of Service Science and Management. - : Scientific Research. - 1940-9893 .- 1940-9907. ; 16:06, s. 670-693
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study examined whether the relationship between service recovery and customer loyalty was statistically significant, and to examine the influence of firm responses on customer loyalty. Descriptive cross-sectional survey and stratified random sampling were used to produce a sample of 384 phone subscribers. Pilot study established reliability and validity of the questionnaire and testing for parametric assumptions performed. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (factor analysis, correlations, and regression tests) were used to analyze the data. Results indicated that these relationships were all positive and statistically significant. Moreover, combined impact of service recovery, firm responses, and service quality on customer loyalty was the strongest. Based on the findings, policymakers, and managers of mobile phone companies in Uganda should focus more on service quality, which showed the highest beta values and had a relatively high predictive value for customer loyalty. This study contributes to extant literature by illuminating firms’ responses to service recovery, by offering more explicit clarification of the relationship between service recovery, firm responses and customer loyalty. Mobile phone companies should improve how customer complaints are handled by considering the various dimensions of firm responses. Because of the study’s cross-sectional design, there remains a need to expand our knowledge by conducting similar but longitudinal studies.
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| 32. |
- Komunda, Mabel, et al.
(author)
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Remedy or Cure for Service Failure? : Effects of Service Recovery on Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty
- 2012
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In: Business Process Management Journal. - : Emerald. - 1463-7154 .- 1758-4116. ; 18:1, s. 82-103
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: This paper aims to contribute to a growing body of service recovery knowledge by examining the relationship between service recovery, consumer satisfaction and loyalty in a commercial banking environment.Design/methodology/approach: A conceptual framework encompassing the concepts of service recovery, communication, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the commercial bank setting is developed. A questionnaire is designed to focus on issues related to efforts made to investigate causes of service failure and to develop recovery strategies that meet customer expectations of how their banks should handle such problems.Findings: Results show that communication had a significant relationship with service recovery and that higher levels of redress independently increase positive consumer responses. The findings also show that the interaction of employee responsiveness and courtesy can also have a positive impact on consumer evaluations. Satisfaction was highest and negative word-of-mouth intentions lowest only under conditions of high responsiveness and courtesy.Research limitations/implications: Service recovery is process-oriented, and does not assess whether the reported problem that led to the actual complaint has actually been resolved. This aspect of the study opens a number of directions for future research with the goal of increasing the still limited understanding of Service Recovery issues in commercial banks. To achieve an indepth view, a more comprehensive qualitative study that pursues the same research questions may be appropriate.Practical implications & Originality: An implication is that, when managing complaints related to customer dissatisfaction, the approaches undertaken by service quality leaders should aim to provide just resolutions/fairness in service recovery. This study also provides insight into a company’s customer relationship management practices. However, in order to encourage customers to complain directly, a company needs to enhance the perception of a possible outcome if complained to. A conceptual framework is developed and used to investigate the relationship between service recovery, consumer satisfaction and loyalty
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| 33. |
- Kuthea Nguti, Lucy Esther, et al.
(author)
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A study of the relationship between social cognitive factors and career choice satisfaction within the technology career path : a gendered perspective
- 2021
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In: Global Business Review. - : Sage. - 0972-1509 .- 0973-0664. ; 22:4, s. 851-864
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The technology workforce is plagued by a diversity issue caused by women leaving the field at an alarming rate. This global phenomenon afflicts developing nations in particular, since women are believed to make up only 30% of the technology workforce. However, there is little empirical data from developing nations on the phenomenon since most studies on the topic have been conducted in industrialized countries. This paper therefore explores the relationship between socio-cognitive mechanisms (self-efficacy, outcome expectation, perceived social support, academia-family role conflict) and career choice satisfaction, which is posited to be one of the key influencers in an individual’s decision to continue along a particular career path. A questionnaire was used to collect data from students pursuing technology courses, such as in bachelor programmes in informatics and telecommunications, at a private university in Kenya. The findings reveal that self-efficacy, outcome expectations and perceived social support positively influence career choice satisfaction, especially among female students, whereas academic-family role conflict negatively influences career choice satisfaction of female students only. This means that government, higher education institutions and employers need to be attentive to socio-cognitive mechanisms that influence women and use this information to reduce the exodus of women from careers in technology.
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| 34. |
- Oijaku, Obinna C., et al.
(author)
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Integrating TTF and UTAUT models to illuminate factors that influence consumers' intentions to adopt financial technologies in an emerging country context
- 2024
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In: International Journal of Technology Marketing. - : Inderscience. - 1741-878X .- 1741-8798. ; 18:1, s. 113-135
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Previous studies show that although financial technologies (Fintech) bridge the financial inclusion gap, its rate of adoption is low. This study aims to develop understand of factors that influence consumers’ intentions to adopt financial technologies (Fintech) for savings, loans, and investment by testing a model that integrates the unified theory of acceptance and usage of technology (UTAUT) and task-technology fit (TTF) model. Data was collected from a cross-section of 324 respondents online. Structural equation modelling via smart PLS 3.0 was used to test the hypothesised relationship. The result showed that the TTF and UTAUT integrative model is robust and adequately explained Fintech adoption. Performance expectancy and social influence significantly affected behavioural intentions, and effort expectancy significantly predicts performance expectancy. Interestingly, TTF predicts use behaviour but not significant on adoption intention. Finally, task characteristics strongly predict effort expectancy and performance expectancy. Focusing on user perceptions of the technology and neglecting the effect of the task technology fit, as commonly done in extant literature, may be not enough. Thus, this study fills this gap and integrates both UTAUT and TTF to facilitate understanding of illuminate factors that influence consumers’ intentions to adopt financial technologies in an emerging country context.
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| 35. |
- Ojiaku, Obinna C., et al.
(author)
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Determinants of Customers’ Brand Choice and Continuance Intentions with Mobile Data Service Provider : The Role of Past Experience
- 2018
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In: Global Business Review. - : SAGE Publications India. - 0972-1509 .- 0973-0664. ; 19:6, s. 1478-1493
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The prevalence of mobile data services has intensified competition and structured the market for mobile telecommunication services, resulting in decreased revenue particularly from voices services and high churn rate. Mobile service providers therefore seek ways to increase revenue by attracting and retaining mobile data users. This study investigates the determinants of customers’ brand choice and continuance intentions with mobile service providers in the context of mobile data service. This study also captures the impact of past experience on behavioural outcomes. Data were collected from 304 customers of mobile data service firms and analysed using regression analyses. Results indicate that mobile service quality, pricing structure and promotion, but not brand image, affect brand choice, whereas continuance intentions are affected by the mobile service quality, brand image and price. Customers’ past experience relates significantly and negatively to brand choice but not continuance intention. The contribution and implication of the study are discussed.
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| 36. |
- Ojiaku, O. C., et al.
(author)
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Determinants of customers’ choice and continuance intentions with mobile data service provider : The role of past experience
- 2017
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In: Vision 2020. - : International Business Information Management Association (IBIMA). - 9780986041990 ; , s. 4926-4939
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study investigates the determinants of customers’ brand choice and continuance intentions with mobile service providers in the context of Mobile Data Service (MDS). This study also captures the impact of past experience on behavioral outcomes. Data was collected from 304 customers of mobile data service firms and analyzed using regression analyses. Results indicate that mobile service quality, pricing structure and promotion, but not brand image affects brand choice whereas continuance intentions is affected by the mobile service quality, brand image and price. Customers’ past experience relates significantly and negatively with brand choice but not continuance intention. The contribution and implication of the study is discussed.
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| 37. |
- Ojiaku, Obinna C., et al.
(author)
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Determinants of Customers’ Intention to ‘Port’ Mobile Phone Numbers in Times of Proliferating use of Multi-Sims
- 2017
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In: International Journal of Applied Business and Economic Research. - : Serials Publications. - 0972-7302. ; 15:22, s. 621-643
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This paper investigates factors that influence customers’ intentions to “port” mobile numbers in the Nigerian mobile telecommunications market. The study specifically investigates the effects of service quality, customer satisfaction, switching barriers and multiple SIMs on customers’ intentions to port their numbers to a new provider. A sample of 363, a cross-section of mobile phone subscribers in Anambra State, Nigeria, was surveyed and their responses analysed using simple percentages and descriptive statistics. Regression analyses were used to test the hypotheses, and the results confirm the effects of service quality, customer satisfaction, switching costs and attractiveness of the alternatives on porting intention. The effect of multiple SIM cards was, however, not confirmed. Demographic effects were also found, with age and occupation influencing subscribers’ intentions to port. Implications of the study include that regulatory efforts should be geared towards increasing consumer education on mobile number portability (MNP) and licensing of universal SIM cards to allow porting between operators with short codes. Efforts should also be made to improve service quality and increase brand attractiveness. The paper discusses the contributions and implications for theory, society/policy and managers.
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| 38. |
- Ojiaku, Obinna C., et al.
(author)
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Role of brand familiarity on the influence of electronic word-of-mouth and customers’ behavioral intentions
- 2024
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In: International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management (IJITM). - : World Scientific. - 0219-8770.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Despite the increased confidence in e-commerce, consumers remain skeptical when shopping online and therefore rely on electronic word-of-mouth generated by other consumers to aid their brand or store choice. Because eWOM can have detrimental or beneficial effects on brands and is beyond the control of firms, measuring the extent to which consumers use this information source to inform their decisions is a major challenge facing scholars and practitioners. This study examines the influence of eWOM on customers’ behavioral intentions and tests the role of brand familiarity. Five hypotheses are developed and tested based on the accessibility-diagnosticity theory and the elaboration likelihood model. A sample of 432 participants was recruited from a university in Southeastern Nigeria to participate in a 2×32×3 between-subject factorial experiment. The results show that the positive or negative sentiments conveyed in eWOM messages and the familiarity of a brand affect customers’ behavioral intentions independently, and that the volume of eWOM messages interacts with brand familiarity to impact these behavioral intentions such that unfamiliar brands benefit more from high volume than familiar retailers do. The implication is that firms can overcome the problem of familiarity and performance risk by motivating and displaying as many eWOM communications as possible in their social media and advertisements.
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| 39. |
- Okoe, Abednego F., et al.
(author)
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Online Corporate Social Responsibility Reportage of an Indigenous Ghanaian Bank : A Case of Cal Bank Ltd
- 2014
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In: The Development and Sustainability of African Business. - : International Academy of African Business Development (IAABD). - 9780620610957 ; , s. 141-152
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The management literature in recent years has been paying attention to the concept of corporate social responsibility. This could be attributed to stakeholder concerns of ethical practices of companies globally. This study focuses on how an indigenous Ghanaian bank reports its CSR activities online. A conceptual framework was adopted from the extant literature and was used as the basis of content analysis of CAL Bank’s online CSR reportage. “Elite interviews” were conducted with senior management of the bank to ascertain whether or not there was an over or under reportage of the bank’s online CSR activities. This study adopted a qualitative research approach drawing on information from CAL Bank’s website and conducting “elite interviews” with senior managers of the bank. It was noted there was under reportage of the bank’s online CSR activities as their CSR online reportage focuses mainly on external disclosures. It also came to light that the bank’s CSR reportage is fragmented and is not integrated into a marketing communication plan. These findings demonstrate the challenges the bank faces in coordinating and integrating its marketing communication plan.
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| 40. |
- Okoe, Abednego Feehi, et al.
(author)
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Service Quality in the Banking Sector in Ghana
- 2013
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In: International Journal of Marketing Studies. - : Canadian Center of Science and Education. - 1918-719X .- 1918-7203. ; 5:2, s. 81-92
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In the contemporary business milieu and “era of customer”, delivering quality service is a sine qua non in ongoing strategy of most business firms and constitutes integral ingredient for success and survival in present day´s competitive environment. This study investigates the role that service quality plays in the Ghanaian banking sector and its impact on service delivery. A sample of 400 customers encompasses four major indigenous and foreign banks. SERVQUAL dimensions of service quality were used to structure the questionnaire. William L. Boyd, Myron Leonard, and Charles White’s Standard Instrument for weighting of rating of service quality attributes was the sampling procedure adopted. Data collected was analyzed using one sample T- test of the mean weighted differences between perception and expectation of customers. This, in an attempt to determine whether there is a significant gap between expectation and perception at 5% level of significance. Empirical findings from this study show that gaps exist between customers’ expectations and perceptions of service delivery in all the banks even though the banks performed better on the tangibility dimension. Despite this observation, the banks retained their customers. This study, therefore, concludes that where a gap exists between customer expectation and perception of service delivery, service quality is perceived as low and customer dissatisfaction results. However, dissatisfied customers did not necessarily defect. The study therefore confirms the theory that service quality is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for maintaining strong relationship with customers.
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| 41. |
- Okoe, Abednego Feehi, et al.
(author)
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Service Quality in the Banking Sector in Ghana
- 2012
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Service quality in the delivery of banking services is considered as giving firms’ a competitive edge and increasingly it is becoming a critical success factor. This research investigates the role that service quality plays in the Ghanaian banking sector and its impact on service delivery. A sample of 400 customers was taken from a combination of four leading indigenous and foreign banks and questionnaires administered to them based on the SERVQUAL dimensions. Using the William L. Boyd, Myron Leonard, and Charles White’s Standard Instrument for weighting of rating of service quality, results indicated that gaps exist between customers’ expectations and perceptions of service delivery in all the banks even though the banks performed better on the tangibility dimension. Despite this observation, the banks retained their customers. The study concluded that service quality is necessary but not a sufficient condition to maintain customers.
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| 42. |
- Okoe, Abednego Feehi, et al.
(author)
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Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process Framework to Study Bank Selection Criteria of Students in Institute of Professional Studies in Ghana
- 2013
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In: Journal of Strategy and Management.. - : Sciedu Press. - 1755-425X .- 1755-4268. ; 4:3, s. 27-37
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The purpose of this study is to investigate bank selection criteria among students at the Institute of Professional Studies, Ghana. Extant literature has employed mainly quantitative approach. In order to contribute to existing knowledge, qualitative research design was adopted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process which demands that the decision problem is structured into a three level hierarchy, thus ensuring in-depth appreciation of the factors determining bank selection. The findings indicate that undergraduates in IPS place high emphasis on the convenience, customer service, and speed dimensions of bank services. Studies focusing on undergraduates’ bank selection in developing countries context are limited. This study will make important contribution in helping bridge the gap but more importantly provide information on the importance of the selection criteria.
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| 43. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, 1960-, et al.
(author)
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A cluster's internationalization as a catalyst for its innovation system's access to global markets
- 2024
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In: EuroMed Journal of Business. - : Emerald. - 1450-2194 .- 1758-888X. ; 19:2, s. 229-250
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- PurposeThe paper aims to illuminate the platform created by a cluster organization to facilitate its internationalization and thereby enhance its regional innovation system partners' competitiveness by providing access to global value chains and boosting innovativeness.Design/methodology/approachThe study draws upon the interaction approach, focusing on the interaction process, interaction partners, relationship atmosphere, and relationship environment. A qualitative study was conducted at Future Position X, a Swedish cluster organization. A total of 58 interviews were conducted, including 48 face-to-face in-depth interviews between 2017 and 2019 with six key informants at FPX, representatives from 28 SMEs, ten members of regional innovation systems to which FPX belongs, and four process leaders of regional and local networks, in addition to online interviews with ten members of the regional innovation systems conducted via Microsoft Teams in March 2021. The time span of the study provides a longitudinal perspective.FindingsThe FPX cluster collaborates with actors in the quadruple helix, maintaining a mindset that has led to a number of new partner agreements in the global arena to secure the resources and expertise necessary for cluster activities, and thereby ensuring firms in FPX networks access to platforms for international expansion. Internationalization thus expands the cluster's knowledge base beyond the traditional environment of its member firms.Research limitations/implicationsVery few innovations arise from the isolated work of a lone genius. Instead, most innovation is achieved through complex, interactive, iterative and cumulative learning processes in which a variety of actors are involved. The FPX cluster organization's internationalization platform is therefore vital to the internationalization of its partners since cluster actors lack the time, resources, knowledge, experience, and networks required to break into international markets singlehandedly.Practical implicationsThis study suggests that, for practitioners and researchers alike, the growing importance and relevance of the regional innovation system cannot be overemphasized. It also holds policy and societal implications in that FPX's global network helps regional SMEs to internationalize, in addition to inspiring international firms to establish operations in the Gävleborg region, thereby helping to strengthen the overall GIS environment. Internationalization also expands the FPX cluster's knowledge base beyond the traditional environment of its firms, an example of this being the construction start of a Microsoft data centre in the region in 2020.Social implicationsFPX is financed through taxation and grant funding. By initiating projects, creating relationships and building collaborations, FPX thus contributes to collaboration between business, academia and the public sector. FPX also contributes to knowledge development of new technology by creating meeting places and networks around digital issues, such as GIS, AI, the IoT and blockchain technology.Originality/valueWhile earlier research has concentrated on endogenous gaps critical to cluster dynamics, comparatively little attention has been paid to exogenous gaps, i.e. linkages between regional clusters and innovation partners elsewhere in the world. This study showcases the richness of interactions in the cluster against the background of wider, global innovation interactions. Future research should examine other vital questions that remain unanswered, e.g. by measuring and exploring the extent to which regional innovation systems can contribute to long-term economic growth for society.
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| 44. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, 1960-, et al.
(author)
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A cluster's internationalization platform as a springboard for internationalization of firms in the age of digitalization
- 2019
-
In: Economic Clusters and Globalization. - Abingdon, Oxon ; New York, NY : Routledge, 2019. | Series: Routledge advances in regional economics, science and policy ; 31 : Taylor & Francis Group. - 9780367000172 ; , s. 134-150
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study draws on the Uppsala Internationalization Process Model with an experiential learning-commitment mechanism that focuses on business network relationships to facilitate an understanding of how the formal and informal networks of a cluster amalgamate during international establishment. In-depth interviews were conducted with key informants from a leading Swedish cluster – Geographic Information Solutions (GIS) to answer the question: what platform does the cluster organization create to enable the internationalization process in order for its partner organizations to effectively manage the challenges brought on by the cataclysmic changes in business logic of the age of globalization and digitalization? We found that GIS began by building international links with other similar clusters in the Nordic, Baltic and European countries and learned that to be in forefront of innovation it needed to mix its core competencies with complementing areas of technology from the world’s biggest hotspots in geospatial technologies. This enabled GIS to work with cross-cluster international innovation. A sustainable internationalization platform created by a cluster is of importance because digitalization is fundamentally disrupting traditional industries, labour markets and the global economy and transforming various facets of exchange. For companies, this means opportunities for new business models spanning from marketing and sales channels to logistics. This study contributes to the literature by examining how location can help firms to increase their competitiveness and thus offer support in gaining access to global value chains and new markets, by focusing solely on exogenous activities that serve to improve cooperation with global markets, which are critical to cluster dynamics.
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| 45. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, 1960-
(author)
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A Coopetition Strategy : A study of inter-firm dynamics between competition and cooperation
- 2010
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In: Business Strategy Series. - Bingley, England : Emerald Group Publishing. - 1751-5637. ; 11:6, s. 343-362
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This paper contributes to extant knowledge by highlighting the complementarity‐based nature of coopetition strategy and its impact on collective strategies for value generation among actors.Design/methodology/approachData collection draws on three cases encompassing three empirical contexts. A theoretical lens that enables a focus on contemporary inter‐organisational markets as organised behaviour systems manifesting network structures is adopted. Business strategy is operationalised as an exchange strategy with an emphasis on the exchange effectiveness achieved when some value is produced in cooperation with significant others.FindingsThe results show that managerial leadership and development of trust are the key success factors. Furthermore, this hybrid level of inter‐organisational relationship encompassing both competition and cooperation – coopetition – fosters collective intelligence through information and knowledge sharing.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper concludes that, due to contemporary inter‐organisational exchange often being governed by the “visible hand” of the process of networking, today's environment is different from the environment firms used to encounter in the past. From a managerial perspective, the findings demonstrate the multifaceted nature of coopetition. Additional work on the impact of the concept of coopetition strategy on business practice is needed to add to this valuable endeavour.Originality/valueThe existing studies are primarily concerned with arm's‐length exchange (competition), a dynamic situation in which several actors are vying for scarce resources and/or producing and marketing similar products or services. Comparatively little research has focused on inter‐organisational dynamics, which entails both cooperation and competition. This paper demonstrates that participating in inter‐firm networks has become increasingly popular to enhance corporate entrepreneurship.
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| 46. |
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| 47. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, 1960-, et al.
(author)
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A Study of Customer Complaint Behaviour and its Impact on Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty : The case of supermarkets in Kampala, Uganda
- 2011
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In: Presented at 12<sup>th</sup> International Academy of Business Development conference hosted by Athabasca University, Edmonton, Canada, 17-20 May, 2011. - Edmonton, Canada : University of Athabasca, Edmonton, Canada/International Academy of Business Development. ; , s. 114-121
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- When customer expectations are not met, some customers may complain about bottlenecks in the service delivery system, others may walk away without saying anything, and still others may complain but regret the time spent complaining. This study aims to explore the concept of customer complaint behaviour with a view to establishing the relationship between handling customer complaints and customer satisfaction and loyalty. The empirical study investigated the state of customer complaint behaviour among retailers in four supermarkets located in Kampala, Uganda. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and used a quantitative approach. The findings show that 47% of customers were satisfied with the services of the supermarkets; According to the respondents, 34% of staff willing to handle complaints but 52% of staff not willing to handle complaints. It is further revealed that there is a need for customer complaints to be handled by competent staff with good knowledge about the products. Moreover, service managers should handle service failure as a critical task. Furthermore, issues such as lack of courtesy, incompetent staff and a lack of authority and professionalism characterize the retail sector in Uganda. It is concluded that complaints should be handled quickly by all supermarket staff, and feedback on the complaint handling process should be encouraged by supermarket management in order to use the feedback as a starting point for improving future complaint management. A major managerial implication is that organizations should pay particular attention to failure attribution, and that providing customers a detailed explanation may be the most effective organizational response that will have an impact on the behavioural aspects of customers.
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| 48. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie
(author)
-
A study of inter-firm dynamics between competition and cooperation - A coopetition strategy
- 2010
-
In: Journal of Database Marketing and Customer Strategy Management. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1741-2439 .- 1741-2447. ; 17:3-4, s. 201-221
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Little attention has been devoted in extant literature to inter-firm dynamics that entails both cooperation and competition- also known as coopetition. This article contributes to extant knowledge by highlighting the complementarity-based nature of coopetition strategy and its impact on collective strategies for value generation among actors in three network settings. The empirical data collection draws on three cases encompassing three empirical contexts. The results show that managerial leadership and development of trust are the key success factors. Furthermore, this hybrid level of inter-organizational relationship encompassing both competition and cooperation- coopetition- fosters collective intelligence through information and knowledge sharing. This article concludes that coopetition strategy enhances the internal resources and market shares of competing actors. Thus, coopetitive relationships offer the advantage of a combination of the need to innovate in new areas as a result of competition while accessing new resources as a consequence of cooperation. From a managerial perspective, the findings demonstrate the multifaceted nature of coopetition. Additional work on the impact of the concept of coopetition strategy on business practice is needed to add to this valuable endeavour. © 2010 Macmillan Publishers Ltd.
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| 49. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, 1960-, et al.
(author)
-
A Study of of Exogenous Gap Critical for Cluster Dynamics and Interaction with Global Markets
- 2019
-
In: 12th Annual Conference of the EuroMed Academy of Business. - 9789963711819 ; , s. 885-897
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study aims to answer the following question: What platform does cluster organisation create to enable its internationalisation process in order for its partner´s organisations to effectively manage the challenges brought about by the cataclysmic changes in business logic in the age of globalisation and digitalisation? Theoretical lens draws on combination of the experiential learningcommitment interplay, which is the driving mechanism of Uppsala´s internationalisation process model with a similar experiential learning-commitment mechanism focusing on business network relationships. Data collection through in-depth interviews with Process Manager – R&D, Cluster Market Manager, Communication and Information, Cluster coordinator took place in the Swedish cluster Future Position X (FPX) - a leading cluster organisation in Europe within geographical information. Findings show that FPX was building international links with similar clusters in the Nordic, Baltic, and European countries. FPX later learned that for it to be in forefront of innovation, it needs to mix its own core competences with very complementing technology areas of the biggest hotspots in the world in Geo Spatial technologies. Conclusion remarks and implications: A sustainable internationalisation platform created by cluster is of utmost importance these days because digitalisation is fundamentally disrupting traditional industries, labour markets and the global economy, and transforming various facets of exchange. To companies, this means opportunities for new or changed business models, spanning from marketing and sales channels to logistics. Originality: This study contributes to the literature examining location can help firms to increase their competitiveness and thus supporting them in getting access to global value chains and new markets, by focusing solely on exogenous activities which serve to improve cooperation with global markets, that are critical to cluster dynamics.
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| 50. |
- Osarenkhoe, Aihie, et al.
(author)
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A study of prerequisites for successful deployment and governance of implementation
- 2007
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In: Asian Journal of Information Technology. - 1682-3915. ; 6:1, s. 1-20
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Critical success factors and how they influence successful implementation of technological innovations have received significant attention in extant literature. Comparatively fewer attempts have been made to define the yardstick for determining the outcome and the magnitude of “enablers” of the implementation process of technological innovations. The empirical aim is addressed through survey and case study of comparable number of IT projects. The knowledge acquired from the empirical and theoretical investigations is used to develop an “interactive framework” aimed at creating an understanding of the things an organisation does to enable innovation, the “enablers”, and what an organisation achieves, the “results”. The prerequisites are defined in an assessment context to interact with the most profound “disenablers” from our findings (failure of senior management to lead; technology has outpaced the sophistication of the user community to properly utilise the tools, particularly in the sense of enterprise deployment; delivery of less functionality that originally planned; integrator cost out of control, etc.) and thereby discover the need for leadership and involvement. Furthermore, the interactive framework provides the tools required to get senior management properly engaged in the initiative and thereby significantly raise the potential for success.
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