Investigation of Critical Success Factors for Sustainable Marketing of Malaysian Manufacturing Small and Medium‐Sized Enterprises: A Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making Approach

Mohammed F., Ahmad R.B., Hassan S.B., Fazea Y., Alzahrani A.I.

Social media has swiftly established itself as a primary source of products' information for customers. Nowadays, Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMEs) can use social media to develop Customer Relationship Management platforms (social CRM). Firms, particularly SMEs in developing countries need to understand the factors affecting their performance by implementing social CRM. However, there is a dearth of awareness on the impact of social CRM on the performance of SMEs. This study proposes an integrated model that aims to investigate the effects of social CRM on SMEs' performance. The model is constructed by incorporating three dominant theoretical frameworks: the Fit-Viability Model (FVM), Network Externalities, and the Resource-Based View (RBV). A cross-sectional survey was used to gather data from 149 SMEs managerial staff. Findings revealed that almost 50% of the variability in the performance of SMEs is explained by the fitness and viability of social CRM. In addition, network externalities of social media significantly impact the social CRM fitness in the context of SMEs with path coefficient 0.617. Furthermore, the internal financial resources factor makes sCRM viable for SMEs as the results show significant relationship between the internal financial resources and the sCRM viability with 0.536 path coefficient. Manager innovativeness, IT knowledge, top management support, and government assistance, on the other hand, do not contribute significantly to the viability of social CRM for SMEs. The model aids SMEs in making well-informed decisions regarding the adoption of social CRM by evaluating both the suitability of social media for CRM tasks and the enterprise preparedness to implement social CRM, leading to enhanced performance.

Ninčević Pašalić I., Ćukušić M.

Digital technologies empower public sector organizations to collect information and knowledge from citizens and other stakeholders. E-participation is vital for local governments due to their proximity to citizens, fostering community engagement for economic and social development. Understanding factors influencing e-participation adoption is critical for strategy, planning, design and diffusion of e-participation initiatives which will ultimately motivate the citizens to use e-participation services. This article explores technological, organizational and environmental factors that influence the decision of local governments to adopt e-participation. The research involved 248 respondents, including administrative division and department heads from Croatian local governments. The study employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the relationship between TOE factors and e-participation adoption. The findings confirmed the significance and relationship of ICT infrastructure, top management support, human resource expertise, public pressure, and public readiness with e-participation adoption in local governments. Perceived benefits and the moderating effect of top management on ICT and e-participation adoption are found to be insignificant. In addition, an importance-performance map analysis is performed to further explore the performance of factors. Results are discussed as well as theoretical, and practical implications. Suggestions for decision and policymakers are given for the effective implementation of e-participation initiatives.

Bellos I., Ren H., Ferguson M.

Growth and prosperity of economies have been traditionally linked with the production, distribution, and consumption of tangible goods. However, such product-based economies have been increasingly generating a large amount of solid waste and greenhouse gas emissions. One potential solution to ensure a more sustainable future is for companies to move towards business models that rely less on the transfer of ownership of products and more on the provision of the services that the products can deliver. Switching the base of the transaction from the product level to the service level can restructure the economics of production and consumption and potentially improve both economic and environmental performance. In this chapter, we examine the potential of such a solution from both economic and environmental perspectives. We provide several examples of product-based companies who have successfully transitioned away from product-based business models towards service-based business models. We then discuss opportunities and challenges firms may face when making this transition and the key decisions they will need to make. We conclude this chapter with directions for future research.

Jiménez A., Arrieta Y., Nuñez M.A., Villanueva E.

Strategic risk management impacts organizations’ competitive advantage; it is an opportunity for growth, anticipation, and sustainability. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are significantly exposed to these risks and are a fundamental part of the current business fabric. This research aims to analyze the management of strategic risks for the sustainability of SMEs in the manufacturing sector in Antioquia. A qualitative methodology was used for the development, and ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers of the selected SMEs. The results show that strategic risk management contributes to the sustainability of SMEs across economic, social, and environmental pillars. The strategic risks most frequently mentioned as priorities for sustainability include long-term risks associated with strategy formulation and definition, as well as the value proposition. Additionally, the risk of human talent management, which is present in all analyzed organizations, was highlighted. Based on the research, interested organizations can be recommended to implement processes and practices associated with strategic risk management for sustainability. The research presents a significant novelty by specifically addressing the management of strategic risks for the sustainability of SMEs in the manufacturing sector. Unlike previous research, our study focuses on the specific risk management practices of SMEs in this geographical context, adding an important regional and sectoral dimension to the field of study.

Rastogi T., Agarwal B., Gopal G.

As the world struggles to cope with the pressing matters of global warming, rising temperature, and environmental degradation, the need for sustainable practices has become more urgent than ever for individuals and other establishments. Organizations across industries recognize the importance of adopting sustainable practices, not only to meet societal expectations but also to achieve long-term success. This research paper studies the influence of sustainable marketing on customer loyalty, focusing on the consumer electronics sector in India. A mixed-methods approach incorporating descriptive and causal research methods was used; with data collected from 302 participants from India's capital, Delhi and its nearby regions. Structural equation modeling was employed to establish multivariate relationships and Smart PLS 4 was used to analyze the data. The results suggest that sustainable marketing practices positively influence brand image and loyalty. Additionally, brand image acts as an intermediary between sustainable marketing and customer loyalty. These results provide valuable insights for managers aimed at fostering customer loyalty through sustainable practices, particularly in the consumer electronics sector.

Matarazzo M., Oduro S., Gennaro A.

AbstractHow Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) engage with stakeholders on their sustainable practices remains an under‐researched topic in extant business research. This occurs even though SMEs play a tremendous role across all economies, and they often engage stakeholders on sustainability issues to foster their competitive advantage. In this article, drawing on stakeholder and innovation ecosystem theories, we use empirical evidence from multiple case studies of made in Italy firms operating in the fashion, food, and furniture industries to explore the proposed research model in the SME context. Our case studies analysis reveals the specific stakeholder engagement levels activated by SMEs to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for circular value co‐creation. Furthermore, we find that the stakeholder engagement levels revolve chiefly around open dialog with local community and customers, involvement of employees, customers, and community, and cooperation with suppliers, Government, and Academy. Implications of the findings for researchers, managers, and policymakers are discussed.

Ijaz Baig M., Yadegaridehkordi E.

AbstractThis study seeks to identify the determinants of economic and environmental sustainability through green supply chain management (GSCM) and explore the moderating role of blockchain adoption in the relationships between GSCM and economic and environmental sustainability. The theoretical model was developed based on a natural‐resource‐based view and stakeholder theory. The structural equation modeling‐fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (SEM‐fsQCA) was used to analyze the data, which were gathered from 179 organizations in Malaysia. The SEM results showed that green technology, green marketing, and customer pressure are the factors that affect GSCM and enhance economic and environmental sustainability. The fsQCA findings supported SEM results by indicating that a combination of customer pressure, green technology, green marketing, and GSCM was necessary to achieve the highest level of an organization's economic and environmental sustainability. Moreover, the assessment of the moderating effect highlighted that blockchain adoption strengthened the association between GSCM and organization economic and environmental sustainability. The findings of this study help managers and organizations understand how blockchain adoption can enhance economic and environmental sustainability.

Ahsan M.J.

Purpose This study aims to investigate how organizational culture (OC) and transformational leadership (TL) affect corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance (environmental performance and social performance) and financial performance (FP) in the context of the Italian manufacturing sector. Grounded in resource-based view theory, this study explores how these factors influence sustainable firm performance. Design/methodology/approach Data gathered from 260 employees were analyzed to examine the multidimensional aspects of CSR, encompassing social and environmental sustainability. Findings The findings highlight the pressing need for sustainable firm performance in the existing environment, supporting the hypothesis that firms achieve sustainable and FP through the recognition of TL and OC. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship between CSR performance and FP was established, underscoring the strategic importance of integrating CSR initiatives into core business practices. This study offers valuable insights for both academia and firms, providing theoretical and practical implications that underscore the importance of cultivating a robust OC to drive performance enhancements. Originality/value This study is novel because it is one of the first, to the best of the author’s knowledge, to analyze the relationships between TL, OC and performance components associated with CSR.

Bilderback S.

Purpose This paper aims to emphasize integrating training for organizational sustainability with the United Nation’s (UN’s) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It shows how SDGs can be included in the training, development programs and incentives to promote sustainable practices. It guides organizations to set long-term sustainability objectives to stay competitive and adapt to changing conditions. Design/methodology/approach The paper conducts a review of the literature on the topic of integrating training for organizational sustainability with the SDGs. The research includes investigating the 17 SDGs and their specific areas of improvement, the benefits and challenges of integrating training for organizational sustainability with the SDGs and the best practices of organizations that have successfully integrated training for organizational sustainability with the SDGs. Findings The findings of this study were obtained through a systematic review of literature on the topics of human resource development, corporate social responsibility, organizational sustainability and the integration of training to promote sustainable and ethical behavior. A total of 36 articles were selected from a pool of 120 articles identified through a comprehensive search of electronic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The selected articles were analyzed in detail, and information from the UN was also incorporated into the analysis. The review focused on examining the impact of integrating sustainability training with the SDGs on organizational sustainability. The results of this analysis suggest that integrating sustainability training with SDGs has a positive impact on organizations. This impact includes promoting sustainable practices, improving employee satisfaction and productivity, reducing environmental impact and enhancing the organization’s reputation. The study found that regular progress reviews and long-term objectives are essential for organizations to remain competitive and adapt to changes. Originality/value This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of the 17 SDGs and how they can be integrated with training for organizational sustainability. It provides practical guidance for organizations on effectively incorporating the SDGs into their training and development programs, performance evaluations and incentives. The paper also includes case studies and best practices of organizations that have successfully integrated training for organizational sustainability with the SDGs, making it an original and valuable resource for organizations looking to promote sustainable practices within their operations.

Kitsios F., Kamariotou M.

The current challenging environment may cause difficulties in the financial dimension of firms and particularly for small–medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may lead to the lack of administrative, technical, and human capabilities which, in effect, may constrain the capacity to deal with the crisis. In light of technological advances, scholars and practitioners have concluded that the greatest obstacle to the adoption of innovative technologies is the lack of information systems (IS) strategy. IS strategy is a critical dimension of innovation and competitive advantage for SMEs. IS strategy includes multiple conflicting objectives and the use of multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) is to support better decision making. SMEs need a guide for effective decision making in the information technology (IT) field and decision-making processes that are based on MCDA methods increase innovation and entrepreneurship. Thus, this article aims to investigate the effect of the use of IS strategic planning on IT executives’ satisfaction using MCDA. All data are obtained in 294 Greek SMEs from IS executives. The results of this article could enable managers to understand how IS strategy supports the development of innovative technologies that incorporate opportunities to enhance business development and innovation.

Anaman P.D., Ahmed I.A., Suleman A., Dzakah G.A.

In line with the natural resource-based view, this paper explores the sustainable business practices (SBPs) of Ghanaian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Qualitatively, the study interviewed eight MSME operators and middle-level managers purposively to assess their use of SBPs and how it affects their businesses. Data collected were edited, coded, and grouped under themes based on the Braun and Clarke thematic framework. The study identified holistic environmental management, eco-preneurship, and regenerative practices as the environmental stewardship drivers among Ghanaian MSMEs. Also, integrated vision and strategy, process efficiency and resource optimization, and risk profiling drive process excellence. Finally, sustainability-focused leadership, internal advocates and change agents, and ongoing education and awareness as drivers for sustainability-oriented culture. The business practices of organizations have continually impacted the immediate environment within which they operate. Consequently, there is a clarion call for businesses to engage in SBPs to mitigate the effect of their operations on the environment. The study brings to bear the SBPs Ghanaian MSMEs are engaged in and how they affect their operations and survival, especially in this era of sustainability.

Baig M.I., Yadegaridehkordi E., Nizam Bin Md Nasir M.H.

PurposeThis research aimed to analyze and prioritize the factors affecting sustainable marketing (SM) and sustainable operation (SO) of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises SMEs through big data adoption (BDA).Design/methodology/approachThe technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework was used as a theoretical base and data were gathered from manufacturing SMEs in Malaysia. The 159 questionnaire replies of chief executive officer (CEO)/managers were analyzed using a hybrid approach of structural equation modeling-artificial neural network (SEM-ANN).FindingsThe findings of this study showed that perceived benefits (PB), technological complexity (TC), organization's resources (OR), organization's management support (OMS) and government legislation (GL) are the factors that influence BDA and promote SM and SO. The findings of ANN showed that a perceived benefit is the most important factor, followed by OMS.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study can assist SMEs managers in making strategic decisions and improving sustainable performance and thus contribute to overall economic development.Originality/valueThe manufacturing industry is under immense pressure to integrate sustainable practices for long-term success. BDA can assist industries in aligning industries' operational capabilities. The majority of the current research have mainly emphasized on BDA in corporations. However, the associations between BDA and sustainable performance of manufacturing SMEs have been less explored. To address this issue, this study developed a theoretical model and examined the influence of BDA on SM and SO of manufacturing SMEs. Meanwhile, the hybrid methodological approach can help to uncover both linear and non-linear relationships better.

Toke L.K., Kalpande S.D.

This article focuses on empirical assessment of key performance indicators (KPIs) of total productive maintenance (TPM). It provides the implementation guidelines and facilitates measuring impact and support for business excellence in the manufacturing sector. The present study examines the current state of TPM and, identifies the key areas for TPM adoption using an analytical hierarchical process in a manufacturing environment. This study aids in the creation of a framework for judging the weights of TPM components. Together, qualitative and quantitative methods have produced reliable results. Data have been gathered using a questionnaire that was correctly constructed. The KPIs have been used to examine the impact of the external environment on internal manufacturing sector elements. By using the pair-wise comparison approach of the analytical hierarchical process, the weights of TPM key performance indicators were determined. It has been noted that in the studied manufacturing industries, work environment and competitive advantage are given less importance than increasing productivity and quality. To construct a model for today's needs based on actual data and philosophical justifications, this study's outcomes provide a thorough typology of TPM techniques and their performances in the manufacturing realm.

Ahmad N., Youjin L., Žiković S., Belyaeva Z.

Despite the rapid progress of the global economy and technology's key role, severe environmental and ecological challenges must be given proper attention to advance sustainable development. This paper uses the autoregressive distributed lag method on 40 years of data to investigate the impact of technological innovation on China's sustainable development and determine the channels through which technological innovation contributes to sustainable development. Our empirical results demonstrate that technological innovation is an important driver in promoting sustainable development, revealing that innovation adds to economic growth without harmful effects on the environment. The results also indicate that financial development significantly adds to China's sustainable development through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reduction, and economic growth further triggers the sustainability process by reducing CO2 emissions. The findings of this paper enhance existing theories and contribute to the progress of sustainable development in China, the novel results outlining industry development drivers could potentially be used for developing global innovation policies integration.

Yadegaridehkordi E., Nilashi M., Nizam Bin Md Nasir M.H., Safie Bin Mohd Satar N., Momtazi S.

Objective Since unexpected COVID-19 has been causing massive losses worldwide, preventive measures have been emergency provided to curb the expansion of the epidemic and cut off transmission routes. However, there is a lack of studies that comprehensively address COVID-19 infection prevention measures. This aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation framework to identify the factors impacting COVID-19 infection prevention. Meanwhile, categorizing factors into individual, social, environmental, and technological dimensions and uncovering their interrelationships and level of importance are indeed novelties of this study. Methods An integration of fuzzy logic and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) is utilized, and data was collected from a panel of professional experts in Malaysia. Using a cause-effect relationship diagram, the fuzzy DEMATEL method evaluates the causal relationships between factors. Results Findings showed that environmental factors play the most significant roles in preventing COVID-19 infection, followed by technology, individual, and social factors. Getting vaccinated is the most crucial factor in the environmental dimension in cutting the spread of COVID-19. Telehealth, the use of personal protective equipments (PPEs), and the adoption of social distancing are the most important measures in technology, individual and social dimensions, respectively. Conclusions This study offered valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals in designing and implementing effective strategies to prevent pandemic disease transmission. Findings can be practically applied to optimize and prioritize infection prevention measures, assign resources more effectively, and guide evidence-based decision-making in the face of evolving pandemic situations. This process involves the active commitment of all parties, including governments, medical health executives, and citizens.