Administrative Sciences

20 pages, 768 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Supply Chains in the Industry X.0 Era: Overcoming Integration Challenges in the UAE

by Khaoula Khlie, Aruna Pugalenthi and Ikhlef Jebbor

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110417 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

This paper reveals profound obstacles to sustainable supply chain integration in Industry X.0 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by utilizing a hybrid Fuzzy Delphi-TOPSIS approach and enriching the viewpoints of 102 experts in oil/gas (45%), logistics (30%), government (15%), and academia (10%). [...] Read more.

This paper reveals profound obstacles to sustainable supply chain integration in Industry X.0 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by utilizing a hybrid Fuzzy Delphi-TOPSIS approach and enriching the viewpoints of 102 experts in oil/gas (45%), logistics (30%), government (15%), and academia (10%). The top obstacles are a lack of favorable leadership (Fuzzy Delphi Threshold (FDT), FDT = 0.82) and insufficiency of sustainability professionals (FDT = 0.82), with strategy prioritization training (Rank 1, Closeness Coefficient Index (cci) cci = 0.1255) and employee engagement (Rank 2, cci = 0.1499) being among the most important solutions as opposed to technological solutions. Most importantly, AI-related technologies had a low ranking of seventh place because of their lack of implementation, which proves that human capital enhancement is always prioritized before technological adaptation. The oil/gas industry values AI with respect to regulatory compliance commitments to emissions monitoring, whereas SMEs accentuate the problem of training because of the limited resources available to them, which also indicates the societal relevance of the concept of AI to social entrepreneurship and the blockchain-based transparency and access to green technologies. This study contributes (1) a decision-oriented framework bridging the traditional 2050 vision of the UAE and the realities it faces day to day, (2) empirical insights into the need for cultural principals within governance so as to prevent the so-called paperwork syndrome, and (3) a theoretical advancement that sees AI as an enhancer of human-centric methodologies. The conclusions provide policymakers with knowledge of the importance of the ability to contextualize investments in organizational culture prior to technology implementation in order to provide effective sustainability transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Social Entrepreneurship: Transforming Impact in the Digital Era)

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18 pages, 1102 KB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Organizational Dysfunction on Employees’ Fertility and Economic Outcomes: A Scoping Review

by Daniele Virgillito and Caterina Ledda

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110416 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Purpose: Reproductive health and fertility outcomes are essential but often overlooked aspects of occupational well-being. Organizational dysfunction, demanding workloads, and limited workplace accommodations may negatively affect fertility, while supportive policies and inclusive cultures can mitigate risks. This review aimed to map current evidence [...] Read more.

Background/Purpose: Reproductive health and fertility outcomes are essential but often overlooked aspects of occupational well-being. Organizational dysfunction, demanding workloads, and limited workplace accommodations may negatively affect fertility, while supportive policies and inclusive cultures can mitigate risks. This review aimed to map current evidence on these relationships and their economic consequences. Methodology/Approach: A scoping review was conducted using the PCC (Population–Concept–Context) framework. Systematic searches across multiple databases identified 30 eligible studies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method designs, spanning different sectors and international contexts. Findings: Four main domains emerged: shift work and circadian disruption, organizational stress and burnout, workplace flexibility and accommodations, and fertility-related policies and organizational support. Hazardous working conditions, long hours, and psychosocial stressors were consistently associated with impaired fertility, reduced fecundability, and pregnancy complications. Conversely, flexible scheduling, fertility benefits, and supportive organizational cultures were linked to improved well-being, retention, and productivity. Originality/Value: This review integrates evidence across occupational health, organizational psychology, and labor economics, offering a comprehensive overview of workplace influences on reproductive health. It highlights gaps in equity and representation—particularly for men, LGBTQ+ employees, and workers in precarious jobs—and calls for longitudinal, interdisciplinary, and intervention-based studies to inform effective workplace policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Capital Development—New Perspectives for Diverse Domains)

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21 pages, 1344 KB

Open AccessArticle

Technological Progress and Workforce Development: The New Work Organizational Processes as Challenges and Opportunities for Micro-Enterprises

by Enikő Korcsmáros, Erika Seres Huszárik, Zsuzsanna Tóth and Lilla Fehér

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110415 (registering DOI) - 26 Oct 2025

Abstract

(1) Background/Purpose: Our research focuses on stakeholders’ attitudes in the Slovak SME sector, which we assessed through a questionnaire. The ability to evolve and adapt continuously is critical for micro-enterprises in competitive markets. (2) Study Design/Methodology/Approach: The primary objective of our research is [...] Read more.

(1) Background/Purpose: Our research focuses on stakeholders’ attitudes in the Slovak SME sector, which we assessed through a questionnaire. The ability to evolve and adapt continuously is critical for micro-enterprises in competitive markets. (2) Study Design/Methodology/Approach: The primary objective of our research is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the new work organization processes in SMEs operating in a rapidly changing economic environment. Our research employed a single-sample cross-sectional sampling method, wherein respondents completed a questionnaire within a defined time frame. The primary data collection was carried out using a questionnaire containing closed questions. The research assesses the opinions of the respondents regarding the problem under study over a given period of time. The survey was conducted online. (3) Findings: 31% of the companies surveyed considered that introducing new work organization processes would make the company more adaptable to the changing economic environment. Only one-third considered involving employees in the processes the most important means to achieve this. Higher employee satisfaction is reported as a positive by 24% of companies. However, only a quarter of them believe the best way to achieve this is to involve employees in processes. For micro-enterprises, limited resources and smaller staff prioritize effective communication, and gaps can cause significant difficulties. Regarding the sample examined, among the hypotheses based on the literature background, we were only able to accept hypothesis H3 with modifications, which states that the biggest challenge for micro-companies in the industrial sector in a competitive market is understanding new technologies when improving employee skills. (4) Originality/Value: The research shows that micro-enterprises are particularly sensitive to the challenges associated with new technologies, which can be important information for designing training programs and developing support strategies for enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship for Economic Growth)

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18 pages, 683 KB

Open AccessArticle

Employee Profiles of Remote Work Benefits and the Role of Leadership in a Medium-Sized Italian IT Company

by Domenico Sanseverino, Alessandra Sacchi, Valentina Dolce, Monica Molino and Chiara Ghislieri

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110414 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Remote working is increasingly being recognized as a practice that can advance organizational sustainability across environmental, economic and social dimensions. However, little is known about how employees perceive its benefits within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and about the role of leadership in [...] Read more.

Remote working is increasingly being recognized as a practice that can advance organizational sustainability across environmental, economic and social dimensions. However, little is known about how employees perceive its benefits within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and about the role of leadership in shaping these perceptions. This study aimed to identify distinct profiles of perceived remote working benefits and to examine how socio-demographic characteristics and leader–member exchange (LMX) predict profile membership. Data were collected through an online survey administered to 377 employees of a medium-sized Italian IT company. Measures included perceived benefits of remote working and supportive leadership, and analyses were conducted using latent class analysis (LCA) and multinomial logistic regression. Results revealed four profiles: Enthusiastic Supporters (37%), Cautious Adopters (25%), Remote Work Skeptics (22%), and Core Pragmatists (17%). Younger employees were more likely to belong to the Enthusiastic Supporters category, while supportive leadership increased the probability of being Cautious Adopters rather than Skeptics. These findings stress the importance of considering diverse employee experiences when implementing remote work policies and highlight the role of leadership in fostering positive evaluations of remote working. The study provides practical insights for SMEs aiming to align remote working practices with sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effective Leadership and Management in the Sustainable Development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises)

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26 pages, 753 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Organizational Climate on Work Engagement: Evidence from the Greek Industrial Sector

by Evdokia Tsoni, Vera Lazanaki and Kleanthis Katsaros

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110413 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

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Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving and competitive business settings, sustaining work engagement has become a strategic imperative for organizations across sectors. Although work engagement research has traditionally emphasized individual and leadership factors, less is known about how specific dimensions of organizational climate shape work [...] Read more.

In today’s rapidly evolving and competitive business settings, sustaining work engagement has become a strategic imperative for organizations across sectors. Although work engagement research has traditionally emphasized individual and leadership factors, less is known about how specific dimensions of organizational climate shape work engagement, particularly in industrial contexts. This study examines the relationship between organizational climate and work engagement in the Greek manufacturing sector—an underexplored setting characterized by labor-intensive operations, and economic volatility. Grounded in the Job Demands–Resources (JD–R) model and using the Organizational Climate Measure (OCM), data were collected from 151 industrial employees. Findings revealed that perceptions of employee welfare, supervisory support, and integration were positively associated with work engagement, with welfare showing the strongest zero-order association. In multivariable models, no single facet independently reached significance, yet their combined contribution explained a small but meaningful share of variance in engagement. Furthermore, work engagement moderated the relationship between supervisory support and perceived integration, indicating that highly engaged employees are better able to translate support into collaborative behaviors and stronger alignment. These results highlight the strategic value of promoting supportive climates and integrating well-designed, work engagement-focused interventions within fundamental organizational practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HRM and Employee Performance Improvement: Strategies for Employee Development in a Constantly Changing Workplace)

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22 pages, 1263 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Cross-Disciplinary Academic Evaluation of Generative AI Models in HR, Accounting, and Economics: ChatGPT-5 vs. DeepSeek

by Najib Bou Zakhem, Malak Bou Diab and Suha Tahan

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110412 - 24 Oct 2025

Viewed by 123

Abstract

As generative AI is being further integrated into academic and professional contexts, there is a demonstrable need to determine the performance of generative AI within specific, applied domains. This research compares the performances of ChatGPT-5 and DeepSeek on tasks in the domains of [...] Read more.

As generative AI is being further integrated into academic and professional contexts, there is a demonstrable need to determine the performance of generative AI within specific, applied domains. This research compares the performances of ChatGPT-5 and DeepSeek on tasks in the domains of accounting, economics, and human resources. The models were provided two prompts per domain, and outputs were evaluated by academics across five criteria: accuracy, clarity, conciseness, systematic reasoning, and indicators of potential bias. The inter-rater reliability was reported using Cohen’s Kappa. From the findings, both models display differences in performance. ChatGPT-5 outperformed DeepSeek in accounting and human resources, while DeepSeek outperformed ChatGPT-5 on epistemic economics tasks. Since results have shown that ChatGPT-5 outperformed DeepSeek in two out of three domains, the research recommends a reliability-based framework to compare generative AI outputs within business disciplines and offers practical suggestions on when and how to use the models within academic and professional contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Era of Technology: Impacts and Implications of Digital and Artificial Intelligence Transformation on Organizations)

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5 pages, 171 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Introduction: Human Resource Management Innovation and Practice in a Digital Age

by Alan Nankervis, John Burgess and Subas Dhakal

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110411 - 23 Oct 2025

Viewed by 209

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) are transforming work, workplaces, skills, and careers globally (Kolade & Owoseni, 2022) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Resource Management Innovation and Practice in a Digital Age)

17 pages, 577 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Factors for Blockchain Implementation in Supply Chains

by Aravindh Sekar, Cherie Noteboom and Deb Tech

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110410 - 23 Oct 2025

Viewed by 210

Abstract

This study identifies twelve critical factors influencing the successful implementation of Blockchain Technology (BCT) in supply chain processes, addressing the significant gap in understanding the practical and theoretical complexities of blockchain implementation. Through semi-structured interviews and grounded theory analysis, the concept of Decentralized [...] Read more.

This study identifies twelve critical factors influencing the successful implementation of Blockchain Technology (BCT) in supply chain processes, addressing the significant gap in understanding the practical and theoretical complexities of blockchain implementation. Through semi-structured interviews and grounded theory analysis, the concept of Decentralized Coordination and Sustainability was derived in addition to themes such as Strategic Alignment and Leadership Commitment, Organizational Adaptability and Resilience, Data Security and Integrity, User Preparedness and Engagement. These themes provide a novel theoretical lens to explore blockchain’s role in enhancing supply chain transparency, traceability, and collaboration. The study bridges strategic frameworks with decentralized technologies, providing actionable insights for successful implementation in the supply chain discipline. This research advances the application of grounded theory in blockchain research, encouraging qualitative methods to explore emerging technologies within complex organizational systems. This study establishes a foundation for future research to enhance our understanding of blockchain’s transformative impact in supply chain contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Blockchain Technology and Business Process Design)

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26 pages, 1563 KB

Open AccessArticle

Capital, Digitalization, and Formality: Chilean Micro-Enterprises During COVID-19

by Viviana Fernandez

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110409 - 23 Oct 2025

Viewed by 211

Abstract

Small businesses, particularly micro-entrepreneurships, are a vital economic engine in many developing nations, providing essential income and employment. This study analyzes the post-shock trajectory of Chilean micro-enterprises through the lens of the digitalization–formality trade-off during and after the pandemic. During the crisis, micro-enterprises [...] Read more.

Small businesses, particularly micro-entrepreneurships, are a vital economic engine in many developing nations, providing essential income and employment. This study analyzes the post-shock trajectory of Chilean micro-enterprises through the lens of the digitalization–formality trade-off during and after the pandemic. During the crisis, micro-enterprises relied on a short-run substitution mechanism: those with greater capital and intensive Internet use saw a notable increase in sales, demonstrating that digital channels were effectively substituting for the growth benefits typically conferred by formal status. Interestingly, formal business registration or permits did not directly translate into higher sales during this period. Looking at the medium-run pattern, the initial surge in necessity-driven businesses was followed by renewed incentives for opportunity-seeking entrepreneurs as the economy recovered. However, the crisis created a lasting disincentive: both men and women were less likely to formalize their businesses after the pandemic, indicating that the high cost or low benefit of formality persisted, further entrenching the reliance on informal, digitally enabled operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section International Entrepreneurship)

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19 pages, 2011 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unpacking the Path from Knowledge Heterogeneity to Team Creativity: A Knowledge-Based View and Dynamic Capability Theory Perspective

by Hongyi Cai, Heng Zhao and Yong Huang

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110408 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 223

Abstract

This study examines how knowledge heterogeneity affects team creativity in the context of China’s digital intelligence transformation and analyzes the mediating effects of digital intelligence enablement and technology management capability. Grounded in the knowledge-based view and dynamic capability theory, a sequential mediation model [...] Read more.

This study examines how knowledge heterogeneity affects team creativity in the context of China’s digital intelligence transformation and analyzes the mediating effects of digital intelligence enablement and technology management capability. Grounded in the knowledge-based view and dynamic capability theory, a sequential mediation model of the effect of knowledge heterogeneity on team creativity is developed and tested using both hierarchical regression and structural equation modeling. We conducted a two-wave anonymous questionnaire survey in a knowledge-intensive enterprise in Shanghai and obtained 203 valid responses. The results indicate that we draw three main conclusions. First, knowledge heterogeneity has a significant positive effect on team creativity. Second, technology management capability and digital intelligence enablement act as mediators in this relationship. Technology management capability improves the efficiency of transforming heterogeneous knowledge, while digital intelligence enablement facilitates the integration and application of such knowledge. Finally, technology management capability and digital intelligence enablement together form a sequential mediation pathway, where heterogeneous knowledge first enhances technology management capability and then promotes digital intelligence enablement, ultimately fostering team creativity. This study deepens the understanding of how knowledge heterogeneity promotes team creativity and provides implications for advancing digital intelligence transformation and industry competitiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Capabilities in Innovation and Strategy amid Technological Development and Economic Uncertainty)

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30 pages, 1059 KB

Open AccessArticle

Leaders, Let’s Get Agile: Examining Project Performance Through Sequential Moderated Mediation of Value Co-Creation and Stakeholder Satisfaction Using the Lens of Agile Leadership

by Muhammad Ishfaq Khan, Bushra Shafiq Bangash, Syed Afzal Moshadi Shah, Hamza Shakoor, Noureen Fatima, Abdullah Hamoud Ali Seraj and Jehad Abdallah Atieh Afaneh

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110407 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 418

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine project performance through the sequential mediation of value co-creation and stakeholder satisfaction, as well as the moderate mediation of stakeholder management in construction companies. The data were collected from project-based organizations using a non-probabilistic, convenience [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to examine project performance through the sequential mediation of value co-creation and stakeholder satisfaction, as well as the moderate mediation of stakeholder management in construction companies. The data were collected from project-based organizations using a non-probabilistic, convenience sampling technique. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling in Smart PLS V. 4. The results suggest that there is a positive and significant association between agile leadership and project performance. Value co-creation and stakeholder satisfaction both separately and sequentially mediate the association between agile leadership and project performance. It was also revealed that stakeholder management moderates this mediation, such that the relationship between agile leadership and project performance is stronger when stakeholder management is high. The implications for theoretical body of knowledge and practices are aligned with stakeholder theory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Leadership in Fostering Positive Employee Relationships)

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42 pages, 1593 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction and Ranking of Corporate Diversity in European and American Firms

by Iñigo Martín-Melero, Felipe Hernández-Perlines, Raúl Gómez-Martínez and María Luisa Medrano-García

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110406 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 354

Abstract

Currently, corporate social responsibility and environmental/social/governance topics are gaining more relevance in business and finance. Attention to corporate diversity in boards and the workforce is included in this trend. Although most studies focus on executive boards and objective scores, the perception of diversity [...] Read more.

Currently, corporate social responsibility and environmental/social/governance topics are gaining more relevance in business and finance. Attention to corporate diversity in boards and the workforce is included in this trend. Although most studies focus on executive boards and objective scores, the perception of diversity by employees and its rankability are not fully understood or researched. In this paper, we analyze corporate diversity rankings from the perspective of predictive and prescriptive analytics. Inside predictive analytics, the perceived diversity of a sample of 350 European diversity leader companies is predicted by using three different feature sets (raw financial data, ratios and objective diversity variables) and three machine learning algorithms (K Nearest Neighbors, Logistic Regression, Decision Tree). The best performing algorithm is the Decision Tree, and all three feature sets outperform one random dummy algorithm; the best performing set is the financial ratios set. Inside prescriptive analytics, several rankings involving American companies are intersected and compared in three exercises (studying diversity categorization, ethnic origin and comparing diversity with other unrelated metrics). From these, global rankings were built to search for the best possible agreement among the rankings. These results with both predictive and prescriptive analytics encourage managers to strategize and include diversity in management, as well as employ new technologies in their decision-making processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Its Perception in Organization—2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 1249 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Venture Capital as a Catalyst for Innovation and Economic Growth in Emerging Economies: A Systematic Review and Future Research Agenda

by Ahmed I. Kato

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15110405 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 269

Abstract

Venture capital (VC) is vital for innovation and economic growth, providing capital and networks to early-stage firms. While research shows a generally positive impact, challenges and failures are often overlooked, potentially creating a skewed perception of success. A review of 72 articles reveals [...] Read more.

Venture capital (VC) is vital for innovation and economic growth, providing capital and networks to early-stage firms. While research shows a generally positive impact, challenges and failures are often overlooked, potentially creating a skewed perception of success. A review of 72 articles reveals that VC investment is concentrated in developed nations and a few emerging economies, highlighting uneven growth and the need for government interventions to promote a more balanced landscape. The review emphasises the critical importance of examining contextual factors, such as institutional frameworks and technological infrastructure, in assessing the effectiveness of venture capital in various emerging economies. This systematic review offers several key contributions with practical implications for policymakers, private investors, and the business community. First, it provides evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of VC in fostering innovation and economic growth, informing the design of targeted policies to support SME development. Second, it offers a nuanced understanding of the factors that influence the success of VC-backed SMEs in emerging economies, enabling more informed investment decisions. Third, building upon existing research, this study asserts its contribution by providing valuable, practical guidance for entrepreneurs. It offers a deeper understanding of the VC landscape, outlining both its potential benefits and inherent challenges. This enables entrepreneurs to develop more informed strategies for engaging with VC funding and maximising its impact on their businesses. The study also acknowledges limitations related to database restrictions, language bias, and limitations in search terms, suggesting avenues for future research to contribute to shaping venture capital investments and overall economic growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalyzing Growth: Nurturing Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Business Development)

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Adm. Sci., Volume 15, Issue 11 (November 2025) – 13 articles

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