Proceedings IFKAD 2024

PROCEEDINGS e-books

Proceedings IFKAD 2024

Translating Knowledge into Innovation Dynamics

Madrid, Spain 12-14 June 2024
ISBN: 978-88-96687-17-8
ISSN: 2280-787X

List of Included Articles:

Sustainability Disclosure and Legacy in Sports Mega-Events

(3326-3340)

Paolo Canonico, Ernesto De Nito,Andrea Caccialanza

Abstract

Within the expansive domain of mega-projects, a focal area of significant relevance is the management of major sporting events. Investigating sports events within the context of mega-projects not only holds intrinsic interest but also carries substantial importance for the advancement of mega-project management and accounting literature. This unique perspective introduces a fresh dimension to the existing literature, diverging from the traditional ex-post emphasis on legacy assessments within mega-projects. Thus, our discussion paper attempts to combine the evaluations of sustainability disclosure and legacy evaluation in the debate on mega-sport event. This proposition is underpinned by two primary driving forces in the ongoing scholarly discourse: the progressive orientation towards sustainability principles, as well as the mutual call from various scholars for cross-fertilization and integration of the study focus areas. In light of this rationale, and following an examination of existing legacy evaluation models conducive to informing discussions on the integration of sustainability dimensions, we have adopted the framework proposed by Preuss (2007) due to its widespread adoption and dissemination within the literature, as well as its inherent focus on longitudinally measuring legacy. Consequently, this study follows and structures the dissertation according to Preuss’s (2007) work and framework, discussing the different elements of legacy: infrastructure, knowledge, image, emotions, networks, culture. Accordingly, a discussion is provided for each of the themes and dimensions involved. For each of the elements is contextually provided a preliminary discussion of both the aspects of legacy involved, in relation to the aspects of sustainability disclosure in sport mega-events. In conclusion, our research agenda advocates for a comprehensive and interconnected approach in shaping future studies, aligning with the concept of ‘cross-fertilisation’ outlined in the recent ‘Manifesto for project management research’ proposed by Locatelli et al. (2023). Furthermore, our proposal suggests the adoption of broadly accepted criteria for assessing the socio-economic and environmental impacts of such interventions.

The SDGs as a Map in the Jungle of Alternative Finance for Public Benefit: A Search for Long-Term Sustainability

(3341-3357)

Candida Bussoli, Saida El Assal

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of community orientation on the success of Public Benefit crowdfunding campaigns. The main objective is to analyze how the emphasis on community orientation and involvement affects the effectiveness of these campaigns in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To test the research hypothesis, a quantitative research methodology is implemented based on a sample of 83 Public Benefit crowdfunding campaigns promoted on the Kickstarter platform. The results obtained will show a significant negative relationship between community orientation and the success of Public Benefit crowdfunding campaigns. This suggests that campaigns that support sustainable initiatives and emphasize community orientation tend to receive less financial support. The relevance of the following study contributes to the understanding of the dynamics of Public Benefit crowdfunding campaigns and offers interesting insights for organizations and entrepreneurs seeking to promote sustainability initiatives through alternative finance, emphasizing the importance of balancing community orientation with effectiveness in achieving sustainability goals.

On the Re-Creation of a Constructive Culture through Playful Workshops and Improvisational Reinforcement

(3283-3295)

Joachim Dehais, Adi Muslic

Abstract

This study investigates the transformative potential of playful workshops and improvisational techniques within organizational settings. Drawing from psychology and performance arts, we explore how these methods enhance problem-solving, systems thinking, collective intelligence, creative collaboration, and visualization. Through participant surveys and qualitative analysis, we assess their impact on organizational culture and performance. Our findings offer practical insights for fostering cultures of innovation and creativity in today’s dynamic workplace. This practical approach goes deeply into the transformative potential of cultures within organizational settings by re-creating constructive employee mindsets with a unique blend of playful workshops and improvisational reinforcement techniques. The paper investigates the interplay of problem solving, systems thinking, collective intelligence, creative collaboration, and visualization, seeking to elucidate how these integrated elements contribute to the cultivation of a workplace environment that not only sustains but thrives on innovation and positive growth (Wujec, 2021). The primary focus of the study centers around innovative problem-solving methodologies within organizational frameworks(Iuga et al., 2017). While traditional approaches tend to emphasize structured techniques and formalized processes, the integration of playful workshops introduces an element of spontaneity and creativity. Participants are encouraged to explore unconventional solutions and think beyond established norms, fostering a mindset that views problems as opportunities for creative exploration. Through playful experience, we aim to shed light on the efficacy of such workshops in nurturing a problem-solving culture that is agile, adaptive, and responsive to the ever-evolving challenges organizations face. In conclusion, this paper presents an exploration of how relaxed workshops and improvisational strategies can lead to the re-creation of constructive cultures within organizations. By reinforcing improvising mindsets, focusing them on problem solving, and structuring them with systems thinking, and visualising, we can reach a state of collective intelligence sustained by creative collaboration. The study aims to provide nuanced insights into the potential benefits of these approaches. The findings may contribute to the development of practical guidelines for organizations seeking to train their employees, foster initiative, innovative, and positive cultures, which would lead them towards sustained success in today’s dynamic and competitive landscape. This study offers practical implications for organizational leaders and practitioners aiming to implement and sustain a culture of creativity and innovation within their respective domains, supported by theoretical findings.

Assessing the Role of AI in the Standard Business Model: A Company Life-Cycle Perspective

(3358-3381)

Aleksandra Zaniewska, Geoffrey Aerts

Abstract

The increasing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across sectors ranging from manufacturing to hospitality is transforming business models and prompting the emergence of new ones. To study this evolution the Business Model Canvas, a framework illustrating key aspects like value creation and customer relationships is an ideal starting point. This study therefore explores how AI advancements impact the business model at various company life-cycle stages—start-up, growth, maturity, and decline. It scrutinizes AI’s role in reshaping business strategies and operations, using a systematic literature review to assess AI’s integration within the Canvas’s nine elements. The objective is to offer a nuanced understanding of AI’s influence on business model innovation during different developmental phases, highlighting challenges and opportunities. This research, enhanced by AI tools like Chat-GPT, aims to deepen the discourse on AI’s contribution to business evolution, providing insights for academics and practitioners on leveraging AI for sustainable business growth at different company life-cycle stages.

Corporate Social Innovation: A Study of Long-term Evolutions through Agent-Based Modelling Simulations

(3382-3401)

Chiara Civera, Cecilia Casalegno, Ivan Gnesi, Edward R. Freeman

Abstract

This study explores the effects of Corporate Social Innovation (CSI) projects initiated by Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) in developing countries, specifically in the Dominican Republic. The focus is on the post-project sustainability and evolution of social innovations in the ecosystem. By using an interdisciplinary approach that combines managerial theories and Agent Based Modelling simulations, the study aims to understand the complex dynamics that enable Autonomous Social Innovation (ASI) after MNEs withdraw their direct involvement. The study tracks the critical roles, behaviours, and relationships of local stakeholders who continue to drive social innovation. Key findings suggest that the long-term impact of CSI projects depends on the cohesive interplay between local stakeholders’ capacities to utilize available resources and their ability to maintain the social structures that support collaborative innovation. The study identifies potential pathways and challenges for scaling up and replicating ASI, providing valuable insights for MNEs to align their strategies with the long-term developmental needs of local communities. The research enhances our comprehension of the crucial variables and conditions that impact the sustainability of social innovation without MNEs support. Additionally, it provides detailed insights into the strategic significance of MNEs in initiating sustainable practices that continue to benefit local ecosystems long after their direct involvement ceases. This can guide the structuring of CSI projects for durable community development.

A Taxonomic Approach to Micro and Macro Tourism Systems for Sustainable Territorial Planning

(3402-3411)

Rachele Vanessa Gatto, Simone Corrado, Francesco Scorza

Abstract

While significant efforts have been made by organizations and governments to promote sustainable tourism practices, it is evident that a shared framework for designing, monitoring, and planning tourism strategies is still lacking. This study aims to address the challenges of information sharing, comparability of approaches, and dissemination of lessons learned across the tourism ecosystem. Insights from many disciplines, including tourism, ecology, economics, and urban planning, are used to suggest the adoption of a methodological perspective grounded in complex systems theory. The study’s theoretical and analytical framework aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the spatial complexity involved in defining and managing tourist systems at the territorial scale. By integrating insights from big data, local systems, and specialized tourism, the research offers a nuanced and holistic approach to long-range planning for territorial development. After a thorough examination of the existing literature and research, critical aspects related to tourism strategy planning have been identified. These include challenges in taxonomy, definitions of sustainability in tourism development, and the absence of tools for assessing and monitoring tourism ecosystem components at a territorial scale. The methodology consists of two interconnected phases. In the first phase, a clear taxonomy is adopted, which is derived from an extensive literature review. This taxonomy specifically targets the identified limitations in existing frameworks. It comprises three main ontological classes: ‘Destination Area’ (DA), ‘Tourism System’ (TS), and ‘Tourism Ecosystem’ (TE). These classes serve as analytical scales and offer both spatial and functional interpretations. Emphasizing sustainability as a focal point, this approach stands as a crucial tool for supporting territorial planning. The research outcomes contribute not only to the academic understanding of territorial-scale tourism but also provide practical insights for decision-making and planning processes. This study proposes a comprehensive framework for analyzing and planning tourism ecosystems, with the aim of promoting sustainable development in the wider territorial landscape.

Perspectives for Analysis of Buyer-Seller Relationships beyond Management Disciplines

(3412-3423)

Fabio Musso, Alessio Travasi

Abstract

This paper delves into the dynamics of buyer-seller relationships, emphasizing the need of effective coordination between business entities for competitive advantage. While rational decision-making is foundational in these relationships, a series of factors (psychological, social, biological), add complexity to the decision-making processes. Psychological factors encompass cognitive biases, emotional influences, and inherent traits of individuals. Social roles significantly impact power dynamics and negotiation processes. Biological factors, such as hormone levels and neurotransmitter activity, also influence decision-making behaviours. An interdisciplinary approach is vital to understand these complexities, integrating insights from disciplines like behavioural economics, psychology, sociology, biology, and neurosciences. Behavioural economics offers insights into non-rational aspects of decision-making, while psychology and sociology provide understanding on social roles, organizational dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, biology and neurosciences highlight the influence of biological factors on decision-making behaviours. The paper also discusses the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in decision-making. While AI can enhance decision-making through advanced analytical capabilities, it lacks the nuanced qualities of human intuition, which is rooted in experience, emotional intelligence, and understanding of complex relational dynamics. Striking a balance between AI’s analytical prowess and human intuition is crucial for optimizing decision-making processes in vertical business relationships. Ethical considerations, including data privacy, transparency, accountability, and algorithmic biases, also emerge as important aspects in the integration of AI. Trust and communication are foundational pillars in vertical relationships. Trust facilitates cooperation and contributes to long-term success, while effective communication ensures alignment in objectives and prevents misunderstandings and conflicts. Cultural intelligence is essential, especially in cross-cultural interactions, to navigate cultural complexities effectively. Ethical considerations, transparency, fairness, and upholding high ethical standards are crucial for building and maintaining trust and credibility in these relationships. The final objective of the paper is to underscore the importance of coordination and collaboration in vertical relationships for achieving a competitive edge in the marketplace. An interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from various disciplines, and balancing AI’s analytical capabilities with human intuition are vital for optimizing decision-making processes. Trust, effective communication, cultural intelligence, and ethical considerations stand as fundamental pillars for building sustainable and mutually beneficial vertical relationships. Continuous research and understanding in this area are pivotal for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Attracting Competence through Local and Global Networks: The Case of Software Service Firms

(3424-3441)

Ingvild Jøranli

Abstract

This paper explores the mechanisms by which services firms recruit employees from external labour markets. Empirically, the study draws upon a case study of 12 software services firms located in the capital city region of Norway. The data consists of interview data gathered among HR managers and firm executives, and the CVs of newly recruited technologists. The study discusses the micro-mechanisms in firms manage and combine advantages that arise from local and place-specific conditions with advantages that arise from global technology-oriented networks when attracting human capital. The findings suggest that considering the combination of local and global networks provides a more comprehensive understanding of knowledge dynamics, and the study shows the extent to which learning capabilities of individual firms are shaped by local and globally oriented HRM practices.

Furthering Innovation through a Knowledge-Based Approach within Latin American SME´s: Restaurant Industry

(3442-3455)

Oscar Alejandro Espinoza Mercado

Abstract

In the contemporary business landscape, innovation has become a fundamental element for every company. The dynamics of global economic expansion have undergone significant changes driven by the swift and continual evolution of technology, shorter product lifecycles, planned obsolescence, and an accelerated pace of new product development. After experiencing the emergence of the knowledge economy, organizations started focusing on the need to apply knowledge management practices to their business activities as well. While such a phenomenon has gathered considerable momentum in order to be a vital source of competitive advantage, how its role could harvest knowledge assets for innovation has yet to be established firmly. As globalization speeds up and cross-border barriers between nations are disassembled, economic development will depend less on physical resources and more on developments that require nations to be more global in their dynamics. Linked with the fast pace of technological readiness, national economies not only have to go global so that they can somehow remain competitive, but they also must be ready to embrace the demands of innovation (Goh, 2005; Giget, 1997; Grossman & Helpman, 1992). The current study aims to address such a phenomenon by examining how innovation can be furthered through a knowledge-based approach. It provides clarity regarding the existing link by analyzing some of the inner variables that contribute to enhance Latin American SME´s innovation. First of all, it is important to review the innovation literature and propose that innovation has been conceptualized either from a process or from an outcome perspective. Also, demonstrating that there is a substantive difference between innovation seen in the traditional innovation literature and innovation as conceived in the knowledge management literature. Knowledge management practices can be harnessed better for innovation management and explains why organisations should foster innovation by adopting an everlasting evolving set of knowledge-based perspective. That is the reason why a theoretical framework based on a wide range of contributions is provided. Eventually, based on a thoroughly quantitative interpretation the study aims to provide empirical evidence regarding the factors that compose it. Finally, it outlines the current scenario and future challenges of exploiting knowledge for innovation.

The Influence of Servant Leadership in a JD-R Based Model for the Higher Education Sector

(3456-3468)

Hayam Mohammed A Jabali, Ashish Malik, Philip J. Rosenberger III, Cathy Ying Xu

Abstract

This research paper explores the influence of servant leadership within a Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) based model in the higher education sector. The study focuses on the context of Vision 2030 (V30), the national development strategy of Saudi Arabia, emphasising the need for adept leadership to drive organisational transformation. The paper highlights the critical role of the Saudi Arabian higher education (HE) sector in achieving V30’s goals. Servant leadership, characterised by a focus on employee needs, growth and empowerment, aligns with the changing dynamics of the workforce, particularly the presence of Millennials and Generation Z. Traditional hierarchical leadership approaches may not meet the expectations of these younger generations, necessitating alternative leadership styles. The JD-R model provides a theoretical framework for understanding how job demands and resources influence employee outcomes. By leveraging this model, organisations can allocate adequate resources to meet job demands and empower employees to effectively cope with challenges. Servant leadership, with its emphasis on employee well-being and development, is expected to have a positive impact on employee psychology and behaviours. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the benefits of servant leadership in the Saudi Arabian HE sector. By embracing servant leadership and the JD-R model, Saudi Arabian HE institutions can navigate challenges, foster innovation, and promote excellence, in line with V30 objectives. Flowing from this, a guiding conceptual model for exploring servant leadership in the Saudi Arabian HE sector is proposed. A proposed qualitative case-study-based study is detailed to holistically investigated the conceptual model.

Breaking Barriers and Fostering Equity: Women’s Empowerment in the Livestock Industry

(3469-3479)

Brigida Morelli, Valentina Chiaudano, Alessandro Ricci, Victor E. Cabrera

Abstract

The livestock sector faces significant challenges that hinder innovation and the adoption of inclusive and sustainable practices, caused by its predominantly male-dominated structure and dependence on traditional methods. Women, while showing interest in sustainability and collaboration, face social and cultural barriers that prevent their entry and recognition as capable and independent agricultural entrepreneurs. Empowerment initiatives are essential to address these challenges, transforming women from powerless subjects to active participants in value creation. While recent literature explores the empowerment of women in agriculture, few studies comprehensively examine the mechanisms for promoting equality and empowerment and the benefits women could bring to the industry. This paper fills this gap by analysing the context and strategies of women’s collaboration and empowerment in the livestock sector, focusing on a case study of an Italian association that leverages a multi-stakeholder approach. The findings reveal the association’s role in promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and accessibility to resources and highlight the importance of addressing women’s cultural, social, financial and technical barriers and emphasise the value of collaboration and support networks. Recommendations for stakeholders include fostering partnerships, leadership training, and promoting open dialogue to recognize women’s contributions. However, the limitations of the study, including the focus on a single case, suggest the need for further research to generalise the findings and explore applicability in different contexts. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of women’s empowerment in agriculture and offers practical insights to promote inclusivity and ageing in the livestock sector.

Gender Diversity and AI on Hiring Processes: an Empirical Analysis on Emerging Technologies and Organizational Inclusivity

(3480-3495)

Simona Arduini, Tommaso Beck

Abstract

In the contemporary business landscape, the symbiotic relationship between technologies, innovation, inclusivity and gender equality emerges as a pivotal force, shaping the ethical and economic dimensions of company development. This study, with the aid of questionnaire methodological research, seeks to scrutinize the intricate interplay between these elements, specifically focusing on how Gender Diversity (GD) intersects with recruitment/hiring process, inclusivity and innovation technologies. Our investigation employs a combination of perspectives and ethical considerations on Big Data (BD) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). We aim to illuminate potential challenges and opportunities influencing fair gender distribution and the effective presence of organizational inclusivity. Furthermore, the study explores how AI, BD and automation tools can (or not) introduce objectivity into decision-making in recruitment/hiring processes, mitigate biases and contribute to a more impartial perspective in organizational environments. To bring scientific evidence to our work, in addition to a timely literature review, we conduct an empirical analysis consisting in descriptive statistics, based on questionaries sent to 159 HR offices in Italy. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature, by examining whether emerging technologies can be directed towards specifically supporting inclusivity, in a modern background where gender inequalities pose threats to social progress. By delving into the international debate on HR selection and hiring processes, our research provides a contribution to understanding how companies can enhance inclusivity and diversity, particularly in the context where technologies and innovation are relevant to increase business performance. This study not only identifies new trends, but also provides an in-depth analysis of empirical evidence, offering a reliable framework to understand the extent to which these tools either facilitate, or hinder, gender equality and inclusivity. Ultimately, our study aims to positively influence the creation of more inclusive, sustainable and ethically oriented organizational environments. By our point of view, academics can use our findings to deepen their insights into gender dynamics, enriching academic literature and prompting additional research. Parallelly, practitioners can directly implement the insights to bolster inclusivity initiatives, fostering ethical and sustainable workplaces.