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Research background: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a fundamental role in countries' economies. Currently, entrepreneurs are struggling not only with the uncertainty of the business environment, but also with high expectations for businesses to be run in a sustainable way. Therefore, the impact of corporate reputation and social media on sustain ability is an area of interest for entrepreneurs. In this context, little research has been conducted on their perception of the linkage between these issues. Furthermore, there has been no direct explanation of the effects of SMEs' reputation and social media usage on their sustainable development, especially in the V4 countries. Purpose of the article: This article defines, quantifies, and verifies the effects of corporate reputation and social media on sustainable development as perceived by SMEs' owners and top managers in the V4 countries. Methods: Data were gathered in December 2022 and January 2023 using the computerassisted web interviewing (CAWI) method. The survey was designed based on a literature review and experts' opinions. Respondents (top managers of SMEs, n = 1090) were asked questions on their firms' characteristics, reputation, social media usage and sustainable development. The linear regression modelling (LRM) was utilised to evaluate the hypothesis. Findings & value added: The study revealed a strong relationship between owners' and top managers' perceptions of the importance of both corporate reputation and sustainable development in SMEs. The belief that social media supports the growth of companies' performance is related to the understanding of the concept of sustainable business development. Surprisingly, for the owners and top managers of SMEs in V4 countries, there was no relationship between the awareness of social media usage to share information with customers and partners and the understanding of sustainable business growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is based on the results of a literature review on enterprise digitalisation, small and medium-size enterprise (SME) digitalisation and their measurement. It is the first in a two-part series of articles, the broad theoretical framework of the Digimeter research series on SME digitalisation. One of the most frequently studied topics in relation to SMEs is digitalisation and measuring digital maturity. However, research on SME digitalisation faces a number of challenges. Digitalisation affects companies as a whole and SMEs are more likely to experience this process as a challenge than larger firms. This article illustrates the diversity of the field of enterprise digitalisation, which means that there is no universally accepted definition. For this reason, the measurement of SME digitalisation is not clear either from the literature or from practice. There are more differences than similarities between the measurements identified, and there is no established methodology for measuring SME maturity or development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a globalized economy, innovation is a priority of ensuring the competitive advantage and organizational performance of agile companies, competitiveness being the core of the development in any economic activity. Consequently, the purpose of this research is to provide an overview regarding the connections between four main constructs, respectively innovation management, competitive advantage, agility and organizational performance, through performing a bibliometric analysis by using the VOSviewer visualization tool. The information has been selected from the Web of Science Core Collection database (WoS) during February 2023. This preliminary study aims to grant relevance to the potential research areas prone to be exploited when discussing the matter of innovation management in relation to organizational performance, competitive advantage achievement and agility. The main premise is that every company has its particularities and acts accordingly to stay competitive through innovating its business model and through an articulate innovation management, also encompassing agility, with a view to reach organizational performance and strong competitive advantage. In terms of findings, the bibliometric analysis conducted confirms the existence of compelling relationships between constructs, thus supporting further scrutiny in this direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Socioterapy / Journal Socioterapie is the property of Linguo-Cultural & Translation-Interpretation Centre of Excellence at the Faculty of Arts and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The emergence of Industry 5.0 has revolutionized technology by integrating physical systems with digital networks. These advancements have also led to an increase in cyber threats, posing significant risks, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This research investigates the resistance of SMEs in Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom (UK) to cyber security measures within the context of Industry 5.0, with a specific focus on governance and policy. It explores the cultural and economic factors contributing to this resistance, such as limited awareness of cyber security risks, financial constraints, and competing business priorities. Additionally, the study examines the role of government policies and regulations in promoting cyber security practices among SMEs and compares the approaches adopted by Saudi Arabia and the UK. By employing a mixed methods analysis, including interviews with SME owners and experts, the research highlights challenges and opportunities for improving cyber security governance and policy in both countries. The findings emphasize the need for tailored solutions due to the differing cultural and economic contexts between Saudi Arabia and the UK. Specifically, the study delves into the awareness and implementation of cyber security measures, focusing on SMEs in Saudi Arabia and their adherence to the Essential Cyber Security Controls (ECC-1:2018) guidelines. Furthermore, it examines the existing cyber security awareness practices and compliance in the UK, while also comparing official guidance documents aimed at supporting SMEs in achieving better cyber security practices. Based on the analysis, greater engagement with these documents is recommended in both countries to foster awareness, confidence, and compliance among SMEs, ultimately enhancing their cyber security posture. This paper offers a comparative research study on governance and policy between Saudi Arabia and the UK, presenting a set of recommendations to strengthen cyber security awareness and education, fortify regulatory frameworks, and foster public–private partnerships to combat cyber security threats in the Industry 5.0 landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an organization, successful implementation of Total Quality Management (TQM) brings lot of benefits in terms of quality improvement, customer satisfaction, profit, and market share. It also assists businesses to improve in terms of performance, reducing rework in the process, and reduction in overall costs associated with poor quality (e.g. replacement, warranty, late deliveries, rework and scrap.).However, in practice many enterprises fail to adopt and implement TQM besides having known its benefits and advantages into the organization. Consequently, there is essential requirement for a further systematic and deeper assessment of the various TQM factors for its successful implementation. By considering this research gap in the context of Indian industry, an exhaustive and planned work was carried out to meet this requirement. Several factors influencing the implementation of TQM were decided by consulting industrial and academic experts. From the available responses, an attempt was made to uncover the causal relationships among the identified critical success factors (CSF's) and categorize them into cause-and-effect groups. In the present work, Grey Set Theory has been integrated with DEMATEL (Decision making Trial and Evaluation Method). Further, the integrated grey based DEMATEL approach was applied to reveal the interrelation among the identified critical success factor. The results indicate that among the identified 15 CSF's for the successful TQM implementation in Indian SMES industries 'Top management commitment (CSF1)', 'Training and education (CSF6)',' Human resource management (CSF3)' and'Information system (CSF11) are topmost influential cause group factor. Whereas 'Process management (CSF4)', 'Customer focus (CSF5)', 'Supply development (CSF7)' and' Product and service design (CSF13)' are the prominent influenced group factors. Analysis outcomes suggest that 'Top management commitment' is at the core of the efforts to maintain quality culture throughout the process. Furthermore, implication to theory and practices has been discussed, implication to theory will significantly contribute to existing literature and implication to practice will work as a guideline for practicing mangers and industrial experts. At last, managers and quality engineers will get insight of how to develop efficient quality culture throughout organization by successful implementation of TQM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the roles of positive orientation, financial slack, and external networks in the sustainability of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) following the global financial crisis in 2008–2009. The financial crisis is a good example of sudden, unexpected external disruption, in which a firm's resilience as well as sustainability is seriously tested. Using a sample of 207 manufacturing SMEs in Hong Kong, we tested the simultaneous effects of positive orientation, financial slack, and external networks on post-crisis firm performance through strategic change. Our findings show that positive orientation and external networks play an enabling role in strategic change, which in turn leads to high performance. The enabling role of financial slack is, however, not supported. The study also shows that positive orientation, financial slack, and external networks play a buffering role, which has direct and positive effects on performance. The results provide academics and practitioners with a new perspective of the underlying mechanism that sustains the firm performance of SMEs under a financial crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital business model innovation (DBMI) has been acknowledged as a new business norm which allows for increased competitiveness. By adopting the dynamic capabilities theory, this research aims to investigate the adoption of DBMI among small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in a developing country. The qualitative data were collected using semi‐structured virtual interviews with SMEs. The findings revealed that the SMEs have redesigned their DBMI through value creation innovation, which refers to the use of new digital technology, new capability, and strong collaboration with new partners to streamline the business processes. SMEs innovate their value proposition by focusing on new product and service offerings and creating profitable customer relationships. Interestingly, SMEs also implement value delivery innovation, utilizing new delivery channels to target new market segments. In terms of value capture innovation, SMEs are concerned with obtaining new sources of revenues at a lower cost structure. Research studies on DBMI in Malaysia are scarce. The originality of this research lies in the exploration of DBMI in the real‐life business context, and the insights it will provide to SMEs and practitioners in the midst of adopting DBMI. The findings offer valuable insights for SMEs, practitioners, and policymakers in emerging economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the recent health crisis, certain small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) successfully developed and commercialized new products, sometimes outside their usual business sector. What practices were adopted to carry out these product innovations? To answer this question, an exploratory case study was conducted with two SMEs to learn about their motivations, practices and challenges. The results show that they engaged in innovation to survive, using a succinct and flexible innovation process, combining the principles of the stage gate system with certain aspects of the Xpress and Agile versions. During a crisis, SMEs can deploy an innovation process quickly and with agility if resources and skills are accessible and collaborations possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this article is to identify the issues of short food supply chains (SFSCs) in three countries of Central and Eastern Europe, i.e. Lithuania, Latvia and Poland, to compare the barriers to shortening food supply chains and to indicate business models for short supply chains. Design/methodology/approach: Within the AgroBRIDGES project, the authors organized local co-creation workshops from August to September 2021 in 12 European regions and countries, engaging 150+ agrifood stakeholders of the project's local communities. Findings: The development potential of SFSCs in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland is high and seems to be growing every year. Currently, the development potential of SFSCs in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland is stimulated more by social trends than by public support. Traditional business models based on the distribution of food products through local and regional markets have a definitely diminishing potential. Research limitations/implications: Although this article covers an existing gap in the literature, it also has several limitations that may serve as an inspiration for future research. First, the results draw on a sample of agrifood value chain stakeholders in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland; hence, the findings might be industry specific. Therefore, future studies should explore this topic on wider target groups or different industries. Moreover, the method is qualitative and could be supplemented with additional quantitative analysis of similar tools or the experience of other agrifood companies from European countries. Practical implications: The article seeks to build bridges between consumers and producers by supporting SFSCs through a systemic, holistic and multi-actor approach. Originality/value: The study elaborates on the under-researched topic of SFSCs in the context of barriers to shortening food supply chains and business models for short supply chains in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Facultad de Derecho y Ciencias Políticas is the property of Revista Faculdad de Derecho y Ciencias Politicas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In a globalized economy, innovation is a priority of ensuring the competitive advantage and organizational performance of agile companies, competitiveness being the core of the development in any economic activity. Consequently, the purpose of this research is to provide an overview regarding the connections between four main constructs, respectively innovation management, competitive advantage, agility and organizational performance, through performing a bibliometric analysis by using the VOSviewer visualization tool. The information has been selected from the Web of Science Core Collection database (WoS) during February 2023. This preliminary study aims to grant relevance to the potential research areas prone to be exploited when discussing the matter of innovation management in relation to organizational performance, competitive advantage achievement and agility. The main premise is that every company has its particularities and acts accordingly to stay competitive through innovating its business model and through an articulate innovation management, also encompassing agility, with a view to reach organizational performance and strong competitive advantage. In terms of findings, the bibliometric analysis conducted confirms the existence of compelling relationships between constructs, thus supporting further scrutiny in this direction.

A deeper understanding of cloud computing is required to accelerate its adoption and leverage its cost, performance, reliability, and security. However, information about the combined effect of factors influencing cloud computing adoption using traditional statistical methods is limited. Based on a literature review of firms’ adoption of cloud computing, we identified 12 determinants to explore how antecedent factors influence cloud computing adoption by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We used symmetric and asymmetric techniques to analyze data from 203 Chinese SMEs. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) assessed the net impact of each antecedent, and the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) provided a supplementary analysis by highlighting the configurations of the causal conditions associated with cloud computing adoption. The PLS-SEM results show that security concerns, top management support, IT competence, competitive pressure, trading partner pressure, and provider support influence SMEs’ decisions to adopt cloud computing. Interestingly, fsQCA provides a deeper understanding of the complex causality that PLS-SEM does not capture. That is, fsQCA revealed seven configurations resulting in high-level cloud computing adoption and eight causal paths leading to the negation of cloud computing adoption. These findings indicate that several conditions with no significant influence in PLS-SEM were adequate when combined with other conditions in the configurations. The results of the complementary analysis provide theoretical and practical insights.

Abstract Using a representative survey of 800 small and medium-sized employers across Atlantic Canada, we empirically tested factors associated with employers’ attitudes toward hiring immigrants. Results showed employers who recently hired immigrants reported more positive attitudes, consistent with our theory that deep contact fosters positive perceptions. Employers in New Brunswick reported less-positive attitudes than those in the other Atlantic Provinces. Public-sector and not-for-profit employers had more positive perceptions than private-sector and for-profit employers. The coefficients for the rural/urban divide showed expected signs but were statistically insignificant. We interpret our findings and suggest implications for policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lean concept was devised in large business systems and is tailored to this way of conducting business. It is a set of principles, techniques and procedures used to identify and eliminate losses within processes. The results of applying this concept are impressive. Western businesses are delighted with the success of large enterprises that have implemented or have begun to implement the Lean concept. Considering the structures of business systems in transitional and EU countries, a question has arisen as to whether it is possible to apply the Lean concept to small and medium-sized enterprises, as these account for more than 99 % of all business systems. The research which was conducted with the goal of designing a suitable model for the implementation of the Lean concept in small to medium-sized enterprises was based on an analysis of the essential elements of this concept. This article presents part of the conducted research that refers to analysis of losses and identification of the dominant losses according to the opinions of real sector experts and scientists from the academic community. The results of this research were used to define procedures for the elimination of major losses and design a final model for the implementation of the Lean concept in small and medium-sized enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cope, preserve market position, and achieve sustainable competitive advantage (SCA), companies should put operations strategy into action systematically and coherently. In this vein, the purpose of this study is to evaluate small and medium-sized (SME) pharmaceutical firms in southern Vietnam considering their current strategic orientation, development path, and sustanability of competitive advantage. The method used in this research is Sense and Respond (S&R), supported with combination of different tools. The data has been gathered from six companies utilizing two questionnaires: "Manufacturing strategy index (MSI)" and "S&R". The results show that, all case companies act as Analyzer both in the past and in the future when employing operations strategy. In all case companies, quality found to be the most important competitive priority in the past and future, and the main source of competitive advantage. Furthermore, spearhead technology and knowledge (T&K) found to be the main source of risk in operations strategy and SCA. The Weak Market Test demonstrates that the research results are consistent with the actual situations of the case companies. The research concludes that S&R method works well in evaluating the operative SCA of pharmaceutical SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia is a member of many multilateral trade bodies and engages in trade agreements of a multilateral and bilateral kind across most regions. In June 2018, it launched negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) which are still ongoing and since then Australia and the EU have conducted fifteen rounds of negotiations (last one on 28 May 2023 in Brussels). This paper aims to explore the business awareness of the EU amongst Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to analyse the factors that influence their internationalisation. To ascertain this, we reviewed the results of two surveys1 that were conducted pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic (also coinciding with the Brexit transition period). This paper argues that SMEs in Australia are essentially unaware of the EU as a market and that no significant change in the business perception of the EU and potential international trade opportunities occurred between the pre- and post-COVID-19 political contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current competitive context, innovation has become a necessity, to the point that it seems that no company can survive without developing innovation processes. One of the great concerns of small and medium-sized companies is about the investment of resources in innovation activities and their success. Therefore, this article analyzes the influence of different innovation activities performed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of the Colombian Caribbean region on their product innovation outcomes and thereby provides a solid groundwork for the design of innovation strategies. To achieve this objective, a data collection instrument was first validated in 56 SMEs, followed by the application of a reflective measurement model with convergent validity analysis. The results of the model application revealed that investment in Research and Development (R&D) and innovation, knowledge transfer, technology adoption, and financial aspects explain to a greater extent the introduction of new products to the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to understand tourism and hospitality small and medium-sized enterprises' (THSMEs) decision making about event leveraging, specifically by exploring the critical factors that drive THSMEs to engage in event leveraging. By examining event leveraging from the entrepreneurial process perspective, this study provides new understanding of evaluating and interpreting local businesses' event leveraging. The results from semistructured interviews with THSMEs' owners and managers revealed four critical factors affecting THSMEs' decision making regarding event leveraging. Information availability , which refers to obtaining information about upcoming events in a timely manner and acquiring know-how in event leveraging, was found to be the most critical factor. This factor was found to influence another three factors, namely, business strategy, internal resources , and attitude and belief toward event leveraging. Based on the findings of this study, practical recommendations are provided for destination marketing organizations and local business associations to better support THSMEs to benefit through events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how small corporations in rural areas of Japan obtained funding from the 1880 s through the 1910s and reassesses the role of market-based financing for Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While most previous literature shows that Japan effectively used bank-based financing for SMEs, this study provides evidence that corporations of various sizes, including small ones in rural areas, arranged funding through the stock and bond markets during Japan's early industrialisation period. While this type of financing arrangement helped promote early industrialisation, it also strengthened the dual economy during full-fledged industrialisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the significant economic contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), little is known about the extent to which they make use of accounting information (AI). Although AI is considered one of the main sources of information for SMEs, many continue to ignore its potential, considering that this information is only intended to meet tax obligations. The literature stresses the influence of several factors on AI usage. However, the conclusions of the studies are fragmented, contradictory, and not very enlightening. Following these studies, the purpose of this paper is to explore which characteristics of decision makers, companies, and accounting services influence the importance and use of AI in SMEs. Data were collected through an online questionnaire survey applied to Portuguese SMEs. The findings show that the decision makers' level of education, as well as their educational background, influence the importance they attribute to AI. It has also been found that smaller companies and SMEs that use outsourced accounting services make the least use of AI. Therefore, in addition to providing empirical evidence on the importance and use of AI, a debate that has been mainly theoretical, and on the importance of SMEs in any economy, this paper aims to raise awareness of the need to further study the decision-making process in such firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nowadays, studying small and medium-sized companies, particularly with regard to the management of human resources that takes place in them, is particularly relevant. Effectively, knowing that about 99.8% of companies are small and medium-sized, contributing very significantly to high levels of employability, it is extremely important to understand the role that people management assumes in these organizations, as well as which are the factors, both internal and external, that exert the greatest influence on them. Purpose: In this paper we investigate internal and external factors of small business likely to correlate with a more formal and structured human resource management. Study design/methodology/approach A conceptual model was defined through the literature on human resource management and its consistency was tested through three methodological steps (exploratory interviews; readjustment of variables with the Delphi method; multivariate statistical tests). From a survey of 186 smaller firms in Portugal, we tested conceptual model by structural equation modelling. Findings/conclusions: The analysis reveals that dimensions such as organizational structure, management and communication style, career management, organizational flexibility, organizational strategy and national culture are positively related to more formal and structured human resource management practices and policies. Limitations/future research: Due to its complexity, both at the level of the conceptual analysis and the empirical level, this study presents some limitations, namely, and among others, the complexity of the number of dimensions and variables under analysis, and the complexity of the model being tested. A broader line of research could include collecting data from employee. This analysis would allow for a different perspective of the company's procedures and would broaden some issues that are less detailed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a big role in Indonesian economic development. The government has set four strategies in an effort to boost Indonesian economic development. One of the four strategies mentions the SMEs, and the other mentions the use of 4.0 technology. Working capital has been the main issue need to be considered in the SMEs. Thus, the affordability must be considered in the use of 4.0 technology in SMEs. One of the 4.0 technologies that are possible to be used in the SMEs is a three-axis milling machine. One of the limitations of the machine is that it cannot do the back-side machining process. The paper examines the possibility of manual back-side machining on the three-axis milling machine without adding a rotary axis. Four methods were conducted by adding two-point markings on the x-axis, two-point markings on the y-axis, four-point markings on the x- and y-axis, and four-point markings on the x- and y-axis plus a series of offsetting processes. After conducting several qualitative observations and measurements on the mismatched position of the front and the back machining, and also analyzing the problems that emerged during the processes of the four different methods, it is concluded that adding four points markings on the x- and y-axis plus doing a series of offsetting processes is the best method to have two-sided manual machining with three-axis computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine.

The objective of this article is to propose, from a review of theoretical arguments, an original conceptual model of the relationship between the entrepreneur and the intrapreneurial culture in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It emerges from this contribution that the establishment and development of the intrapreneurial culture by the entrepreneur is based on his choice to remain an entrepreneur, through the actualization of his entrepreneurial motivations, by belonging to the category of CAP entrepreneurs, and by maintaining good, open, flexible relationships with his employees that encourage intrapreneurial practices and acts.

Financial constraints are one of the influencing factors on investment decisions. Financial constraints put firms under pressure to forgo investment opportunities to finance their working capital needs. Moreover, some variables like working capital needs and liquidity of a firm are likely to affect the relationship between these two variables. Hence, this study seeks to examine the effect of short-term credit constraints on the investment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), firms with different characteristics in comparison with large-sized firms. In addition, this correlation is tested by considering the effect of mentioned moderating variables (working capital and liquidity). The sample of this study includes the firms listed in Tehran Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2018, which are considered as SMEs based on some criteria. Multivariate regression models and E-views software are used to test the research hypotheses. The results indicated that short-term credit constraints negatively affect corporate investment. It means that constrained firms invest in fewer investment opportunities because of facing source shortages. Moreover, in companies requiring more working capital, the inverse effect of short-term credit constraints on corporate investment is stronger. Such firms suffer from financial problems and are not able to use their investment opportunities. Additionally, this hypothesis that companies with high liquidity can offset u effects of short-term financial constraints on fixed investment, is not confirmed

Dynamic capability is an emerging topic for organizations confronting a chaotic environment. Previous research has emphasized that organizations with low dynamic capacities boost performance suffers from several survival issues. This paper discusses how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may strengthen their dynamic capabilities using metrics and knowledge management procedures encompassing information planning, collecting, analyzing, and distributing. Specifically, this research explores the influence of social media analytics on four stages of competitive intelligence to strengthen the dynamic capacities inside manufacturing enterprises. Social media analytics is better utilized in some major corporations but less accepted in small and medium enterprises. However, little empirical research has applied the dynamic capabilities method and studied the causal linkages between social media monitoring and data-driven business processes. A survey was undertaken among 150 manufacturing small and medium enterprises in Shanghai to understand this connection better. Consequently, a closed-structured questionnaire was issued to the small and medium enterprises' chief executive officers and management. The data gathered was examined using structural equation modeling. Our study results suggest that social media analytics favorably influences four stages of competitive intelligence, notably the phases of collecting and analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercialization of innovative products in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) faces many challenges. In this study, the factors related to the existing challenges and resolutions are identified with the help of the multilayer fuzzy cognitive mapping (ML-FCM) method. The most effective criterion is introduced by examining the centrality. Also, the challenges and the existing resolutions to overcome these challenges are specified, and the most effective ones are determined. The present study addresses the practical experience of Sanat Prozheh Toos Company, which operates in the design and production of mechanical noise pollution control equipment (e.g., Silencers). The data is collected based on the organization's documents and experts' opinions. Research findings confirm that among the challenges of commercialization of innovative products associated with the case study, management challenge has the highest degree of effectiveness and centrality; moreover, among the ways of overcoming these challenges, organizational integration has the highest degree of centrality. Thus, the findings provide policy and management suggestions for SMEs policymakers and managers in commercializing advanced technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to investigate climate change awareness and mitigation effort and their associated motivating and limiting factors to pro‐environmental behavior and firm demographics in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in Switzerland. For this purpose, a questionnaire was developed, conducted, and analyzed on motivating and limiting factors along with firm demographics, using descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares (OLS) and ordered probit regression models. The results show that Swiss SMEs are in general aware of climate change and their resulting consequences. SMEs have taken steps to help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions through recycling, reduction of energy and water consumption, and use of recycled packaging. SMEs could however improve their environmental impact through low‐carbon means of transport and use of public transport, sustainable raw material inputs, sustainable energy sources, and setting environmental goals and audits. There was a positive association between climate change awareness and mitigation. Motivating factors to pro‐environmental behavior included financial advantage and responsibility towards the environment, while firm size and human resources were limiting factors. Lastly, different mitigation measures might be influenced by different motivating and limiting factors including financial advantage and pressure from interest groups, as well as firm size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency is a key factor to meet the ambitious climate targets of the European Union (EU) aligned with the international policy directives. On their own, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) do not consume big amounts of energy, but taking into consideration that they represent about 99% of businesses worldwide, their cumulative energy consumption is remarkable. Even though SMEs experience several barriers in their effort to improve their energy efficiency, their contribution to the EU's energy efficiency improvement targets is crucial through the implementation of measures to improve their energy footprint. The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive review of SMEs' energy efficiency and energy footprint management, which has been carried out in the context of the "SMEnergy—Energy Footprint Management for SMEs" EU-funded Erasmus+ project. The correlation between energy conversion and consumption processes and energy efficiency, as well as the current situation of energy footprint management and energy management systems in SMEs, are discussed in detail. Moreover, successful case studies of SMEs that have implemented specific measures to improve their energy footprint and achieve energy efficiency targets are also included. It is highlighted that SMEs exhibit a high potential for energy efficiency enhancement that could directly promote climate change mitigation and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the important role of cross-border e-commerce platforms in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has continuously attracted scholarly attention, existing research overlooks the perspective of value chain processes, which have become more crucial when facing a dual shock from resurgent protectionist policies and the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper deconstructs strategic flexibility from the perspective of value chain processes and further explores the mechanism of cross-border e-commerce platform empowerment on SME export performance. A total of 425 SMEs participating in cross-border e-commerce platforms were used as the research sample for this empirical study, subsequently analyzing the multiple mediating effects. The results show that strategic flexibility plays a partial mediating role between the empowerment of e-commerce platforms and SMEs' export performance. Specifically, market flexibility shows a relatively weak significance unlike delivery flexibility, which shows the strongest significance. Following the overall perspective of the platform ecosystem, this study expands and integrates traditional empowerment theory and value chain theory into one analytical framework. It investigates the mechanism through which e-commerce platform empowerment influences a firm's export performance. Managerial suggestions for collaborative innovation of cross-border e-commerce platforms and SMEs in China are proposed. SMEs should actively integrate into platforms according to their business characteristics, fully exploit the platform resources, and focus on improving their responsiveness to export markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of electronic commerce has significantly altered the manner in which small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) conduct their operations. E-commerce has helped SMEs overcome many of the problems they had when they first started out in the consumer market. This paper examines the positive impacts of e-commerce on SMEs and examines how the adoption of e-commerce has proven to be a growth engine for these businesses. By means of our thorough analysis of case studies, interviews, and industry reports, we demonstrate how e-commerce has opened up novel markets, augmented revenue, streamlined operations, and widened customer reach for small and medium-sized enterprises. By embracing e-commerce, small and medium-sized enterprises have been able to compete on a more level playing field with larger and more established enterprises. As the global e-commerce market continues to expand, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have not yet embraced e-commerce may be at risk of being left behind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a globalized economy, innovation is a priority of ensuring the competitive advantage and organizational performance of agile companies, competitiveness being the core of the development in any economic activity. Consequently, the purpose of this research is to provide an overview regarding the connections between four main constructs, respectively innovation, competitive advantage, agility and (firm) performance, through performing a bibliometric analysis by using the VOSviewer visualization tool. The information has been selected from the Web of Science Core Collection database (WoS) during February 2023. This preliminary study aims to grant relevance to the potential research areas prone to be exploited when discussing the matter of innovation in relation to performance, competitive advantage achievement and agility. The main premise is that every company has its particularities and acts accordingly to stay competitive through innovating its business model and through an articulate innovation management, also encompassing agility, with a view to reach organizational performance and strong competitive advantage. In terms of findings, the bibliometric analysis conducted confirms the existence of compelling relationships between constructs, thus supporting further scrutiny in this direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The permanent digitization of management processes entails, among other things, a need for the automation of the process of making certain business decisions. The aim of the article is to review and evaluate low-code/no-code platforms used, for instance, in small and medium-sized enterprises, available on the Polish IT market. Using a systematic literature review, an assessment of the scale of the discussed issue, involving the number of publications, detailed topics covered, etc., is provided in the theoretical part of the study. During our research, using grey incidence analysis, a ranking of low-code/no-code platforms is created based on the characteristics that they offer. The article highlights the benefits of using new technologies in the form of low-code/no-code platforms in the management of smaller organizations.

Purpose. This research aims to investigate how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can strategically leverage key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance their performance and competitiveness in the dynamic business landscape. Through a multifaceted research methodology, including secondary data analysis, case studies, comparative analysis, and future trends analysis, the study seeks to address the specific challenges faced by SMEs and provide actionable insights for optimizing performance through KPI utilization. Results. The findings of this research reveal the intricacies of SME performance challenges, ranging from financial constraints to operational complexities. Through a comprehensive examination of theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, the study demonstrates successful strategies used by SMEs in effectively utilizing KPIs. The comparative analysis identifies patterns and distinctions in KPI deployment across industries, enriching the understanding of tailored approaches. The forward-looking future trends analysis anticipates advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and technological tools that will shape the landscape of SME performance measurement. Scientific novelty. This research contributes to the field by offering a nuanced exploration of challenges faced by SMEs and the transformative potential of KPIs within their unique operational environments. The comparative analysis and future trends exploration add a novel dimension, providing a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of KPI utilization in SMEs. The research pioneers an investigation into emerging technologies and methodologies, positioning itself at the forefront of anticipating future trends in SME performance measurement. Practical value. The practical value of this research lies in its provision of actionable insights for SME leaders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of SMEs. By synthesizing theoretical foundations with real-world examples, the study offers practical guidance on addressing challenges and optimizing performance through KPI utilization. The exploration of tools, technologies, and future trends equips SMEs with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricate business landscape effectively.

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This paper examines Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the dynamic context marked by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the conflict in Ukraine, and, particularly, the COVID-19 pandemic. The study highlights the measures taken in various countries to support their economies, with a specific focus on SMEs. Moreover, the paper emphasizes the significance of female entrepreneurship in the Romanian economy, both in general and in the current context. Research indicates that female entre-preneurship can bring greater value to the labor market and contribute to diversity and innovation. The research methodology adopts a descriptive approach based on specialized literature and statistical data, utilizing bibliographic research and the analysis of secondary data. The study analyzes data related to the number of active SMEs in Romania and the impact of the pandemic on the establishment of new businesses. It underscores the need for effective management to handle risks in a dynamic and complex entrepreneurial environment. This paper emphasizes the importance of SMEs for the economy and the necessity of efficient management to mitigate risks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The development of female entrepreneurship adds supplementary value and can contribute to economic recovery. Thus, this paper serves as a valuable source of information for those interested in the situation of SMEs and their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's marketplace, social media advertising, such as Facebook ads, are an especially valuable tool for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are often financially volatile due to their limited access to resources, as well as political, economic, and social factors. The purpose of this article is to help SMEs better understand how to develop an advertising strategy on Facebook that is mindful of their time and resources. The findings of this article suggest that social media ad frequency, specifically on Facebook, leads to website visits, and social media engagement metrics (i.e., post shares and comments) can strengthen this relationship. Website visits, in turn, are suggested to increase the likelihood of purchases made during visits, and longer durations of visits can strengthen this relationship. This research contributes to our knowledge of Facebook advertising effects by examining behavioral trace data generated by consumers engaging with SMEs. By examining real-time consumption patterns, this research provides immediate managerial implications that can be employed by SMEs as they develop Facebook marketing plans for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike workplace accidents, occupational diseases are often underestimated and underreported since their effects appear gradually over time. They are even on the increase in the province of Quebec (Canada), especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), where they are less likely to receive medical attention. The aim of this four-stage study is therefore to describe how prevention of occupational disease is practiced in this type of business and identify a way forward to improve the protection of worker health and well-being in Quebec. The present article focuses on the first two stages, namely reviewing the literature to catalog the elements of prevention and identifying the most relevant elements. Stages 3 and 4, in which gathered field data on the application of these elements and analyzed their relative effectiveness using descriptive statistics, are reported in Part 2 [1]. Despite the limitations of this research method, we portray in detail the elements that appear to have the most influence on occupational disease prevention in small to medium-sized manufacturing enterprises, and thus identify the strengths and weaknesses of occupational health and safety performance in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encounter several problems, including how to manage the industry forces in order to achieve their performance goals. Focusing mainly on international SMEs, we explored this issue by examining competitive advantage as a mediator in the relationship between industry forces and international SMEs' performance. This study was conducted in the context of the Iranian market. Iran offers substantial economic opportunities to international SMEs since it has a population of 85 million people, a range of natural resources, and a sophisticated manufacturing industry. In Iran, an international SME is a firm with less than 100 employees that originated outside of Iran but has an entity inside the country. The partial least squares method was employed in analyzing the survey data collected from 166 international SMEs in Iran. The results indicate that industry forces have significant effects on performance, but competitive advantage does not have a mediating impact. The results of this study reaffirm that international SMEs should be aware of the consequences of industry forces in order to attain their performance goals. This is especially critical for some developing economies which are more characterized by ambiguities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify the factors that influence the use of digital marketing by SMEs in Medellín during COVID-19, proposing five factors that influence the use of these digital tools by 120 SMEs in Medellín, Colombia. The research was carried out under an exploratory factorial analysis, with a quantitative approach and an exploratory-descriptive scope. For data analysis, the levels of association between the constructs of the conceptual model and the intention to use these virtual tools were estimated, using Cramer's V coefficient. The results identify the benefits perceived by customers, the perceived advantages of using digital tools, and business optimization as the key factors in predicting their acceptance and use. It is concluded that the most used digital marketing strategies are the content and web sites of Instagram and Facebook. As the main implications, the study contributes to understanding the behavior of companies regarding technological change which could help to identify needs and successful strategies that ensure the continuity and sustainability of this business sector. As limitations, the hypotheses were tested in a single context, so it is necessary to compare these results in developed countries to contribute to a global approach. In addition, only marketing professionals who held operational positions were surveyed, so future managers and leaders of the marketing area should be included in the studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crowd-shipping platforms have the potential to serve as flexible and low-cost logistics solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which tend to have proportionally higher logistics costs than large companies. By increasing visibility and access to underutilized vehicle capacity, crowd-shipping platforms can offer lower rates than traditional delivery services. Leveraging excess capacity on premeditated delivery trips can also improve logistics efficiency and reduce emissions. However, high platform fees, insufficient carriers, and difficulty finding suitable platforms are common barriers to widespread adoption. This research evaluates the degree to which existing commercial crowd-shipping platforms can provide suitable transportation solutions for SMEs. A systematic search yielded 400 platforms, which were evaluated for SME suitability by requesting quotes for delivery service from each platform, based on typical shipping requirements of two agriculture-based SMEs in Texas. The responses and quotes that were received, as well as feedback from the case study SMEs, indicate that most existing platforms are unlikely to meet the needs of SME shippers. The results suggest ways in which crowd-shipping platform managers could take advantage of this market opportunity by tailoring the services and features of their platforms to better meet the expectations of SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]