Purpose: Commercial businesses claim social software features are a particularly powerful source ... more Purpose: Commercial businesses claim social software features are a particularly powerful source of motivation that can be leveraged in many ways in order to drive user adoption of wearable technology. In that regard, the aim of this dissertation was to identify and evaluate the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology. The conceptual model devised was based upon an existing study that designed and tested a technology acceptance model (TAM) for smart watches. In order to investigate the role of social software perceived critical mass and subjective norm were added to the original TAM for smart wearables as potential predictors of user behaviour. Methodology: An online survey assessed the proposed determinants of smart fitness trackers (Fitbit) adoption. Principal components factor analysis was performed to test the construct validity. Indicators were checked for internal reliability using Cronbach’s α. The hypothesised relationships were tested using standard multiple regression analysis. Standard multiple regression analysis was also conducted to compare the model’s overall predictive fit of the original TAM for smart wearables to the extended TAM for smart wearables. Principal components factor analysis and multiple regression were conducted on collected data (n=88) using the “SPSS Statistics 20” software. Findings: Results confirmed all the proposed relationships stemming from the original TAM for smart wearables. However, the proposed effects of perceived critical mass and subjective norm on perceived usefulness and consequently on user adoption were different than expected. Subjective norm was confirmed to exert a positive effect on perceived usefulness (B=0.004), however, the effect was minimal. Perceived critical mass was, similarly, found out to exert only a minimal effect on perceived usefulness, but the direction of this effect was negative (B=-0.015). Therefore, the proposed positive relationship between perceived critical mass and perceived usefulness and consequently user adoption was not confirmed. Adding perceived critical mass and subjective norm to the original TAM for smart wearables increased R2 for only 0.1%, thus extended TAM explained individual acceptance of smart wearables only slightly better than the original TAM did. Implications: The results, although inexpressive, did indicate that in order to increase sales of smart fitness trackers businesses should built their marketing strategies on accentuating the ease of use of these devices and not their social software features, as it is widely believed. Originality/Value: Although businesses strongly bet on social connections as a potent means for encouraging sustained user engagement, empirical studies of the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology are non-existent. This dissertation was one of the first scholarly attempts to include social influence factors into a prediction of smart wearables usage model, with implications for the adoption of future wearable technology.
Key Words: social software, user adoption, wearable technology, technology acceptance model (TAM), Fitbit.
Business Intelligence (BI) refers to the ability of a company to use information to gain a compet... more Business Intelligence (BI) refers to the ability of a company to use information to gain a competitive edge over competitors (Gartner, 2009). Turban et al. (2011) mark BI for an umbrella term that combines architectures, tools, databases, analytical tools, applications, and methodologies, whose main objective is to enable interactive access to and manipulation of data, and to give business managers the ability to conduct data analysis. Analysis of data provides decision-makers with valuable insights, which enable them to make more informed decisions, leading to business value creation. Data Intelligence Consulting company (DIC) believes a tailored BI solution would improve its client’s business. Royal Mail International (RMI) has an annual operational budget of £62 million, and is currently struggling to identify, understand, and reduce this spend. The following essay will: identify issues where BI can be applied for supporting informed business decision-making, and relate the topic to RMI; discuss BI methods and techniques that can be applied to enhance informed decision-making, and relate the topic to RMI; describe the proposed BI solution for RMI’s problem; evaluate factors influencing applications of BI, and relate the topic to RMI.
The academic essay has critically discussed, analysed and evaluated application of quantitative, ... more The academic essay has critically discussed, analysed and evaluated application of quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methodological approaches in three academic journal articles, all investigating various influences on firm’s innovation. Due to the word limit only several carefully selected methodological elements per article were inspected in-depth, the selection criterion for inspection being the degree of perceived ambiguity whether the methodological choice was the best possible. Analysis has shown that selection of an appropriate research methodological approach in most cases depends on the nature of the research topic, and that authors put a great deal of emphasis on verification of data, even though in qualitative research this should not be the main issue.
Internet is a ubiquitous information platform which firms use to provide information, to provide ... more Internet is a ubiquitous information platform which firms use to provide information, to provide connectivity and community, to allow transactions, and to share cost reductions (Sharma and Sheth, 2004). Muzellec, Ronteau and Lambkin (2015) claim this definition of Internet is important because it implies that most Internet businesses are in fact intermediary platforms. “Internet intermediaries bring together or facilitate transactions between third parties on the Internet. They give access to, host, transmit and index content, products and services originated by third parties on the Internet or provide Internet-based services to third parties” (OECD, 2010, p. 9).
Internet has significantly changed the patterns and competitions for firms to conduct business (Amit and Zott, 2001; Porter, 2001). It provides means for firms to improve their competitive advantage and offers new ways to deal with business in information and communication (e.g. e-mail, websites, and e-commerce) (Jaw, Chang and Chen, 2010).
In the following essay we critically analyse state-of-the-art literature on how Internet platforms affect entrepreneurial firms. First, a clear method is elaborated for selecting the journals and articles to be analysed. Second, a critical review of the content of the articles analysed (aims and objectives; theoretical background; sample characteristics and data analysis; findings) is provided. Last, conclusions, implications for entrepreneurs, limitations, and future research directions are elaborated.
Twitter is a free social networking site that allows users to post micro-blog messages known as t... more Twitter is a free social networking site that allows users to post micro-blog messages known as tweets, comprised of 140 characters. Messages are deployed on the user’s personal site and to the user’s list of followers, other users who have opted to receive those messages. Users have the capability to send messages directed to other users (i.e., @username), to retweet messages posted by others, and to follow trending topics (i.e., #trendtopic) (Williams, 2009).
During the first few years of its existence Twitter experienced constant growth. From its inception in 2006 until November 2013, when it went public, number of monthly active users increased to 230 million.
In 2009 Twitter underwent a substantial contextual change. By changing its prompt from “What are you doing” into “What is happening” the company transformed itself from a social network into an instant news channel (Brown, 2012). Suddenly every member of Twitter community had the ability to become a broadcaster and a commentator on the news. The fact that today everyone has a voice on Twitter makes Twitter an extremely powerful tool (Brown, 2012), the latter being proven time and time again with Twitter having on the spot access to eyewitness account about world events long before any other news channel is able to begin broadcasting.
In the past outsourcing was primarily relegated to the procurement of non-core components and ser... more In the past outsourcing was primarily relegated to the procurement of non-core components and services. However, currently the outsourcing trend has expanded to include virtually every activity of a firm, including core and non-core components, business processes, information technology processes, manufacturing, distribution activities, and customer support activities (Chamberland, 2003). Venkatesan (1992) believes the growth in the importance of outsourcing can be attributed to the ability of outsourcing programs to create competitive advantages for firms. Due to its growing importance outsourcing has become not only a key component of supply chain management strategies (Chase, Jacobs and Aquilano, 2004), but also a strategic component of business strategies (Kakabadse and Kakabadse, 2003).
One of the sectors extensively involved with outsourcing processes is manufacturing (Oshri, Kotlarsky and Willcocks, 2009). Procter & Gamble (P&G) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer packaged goods. In 2003 P&G decided to outsource facility management functions on an unprecedented scale. They signed a groundbreaking contract with Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), delegating the supplier the responsibility to oversee 14 million square feet of real estate at 165 sites in 60 countries (Siemens PLM Software, 2008). JLL has provided integrated facilities management, project development, construction management, and strategic occupancy planning services to P&G since 2003 and real estate transaction management and lease administration services since 2008. JLL was recognized by P&G as “Supplier of the Year” in 2008 and 2009, and is also a three-time winner of P&G’s Global Business Services “Excellence Award.” In May 2012 companies announced a five-year renewal of their global strategic alliance relationship (Bloomberg, 2013).
In order to successfully carry out such a substantial outsourcing contract, P&G must be doing something right. To discover the crucial factors which led to such remarkable outsourcing results this assignment will investigate how outsourcing has influenced and shaped P&G’s supply chain strategy and supply chain processes. Apart from assessing the overall strategic and operational impact of outsourcing on P&G’s business we will also devise a plan for P&G to outsource its invoice verification process and include suggestions and recommendations for further operational improvements.
On the 30th October 2015 Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination in Unite... more On the 30th October 2015 Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination in United States presidential election 2016, held a speech on the criminal justice system. After her speech she summoned her comments in a tweet which read: ”We need to end private prisons. Protecting public safety...should never be outsourced or left to unaccountable corporations”.
Within hours the infamous tweet wiped millions of dollars off the value of private prison industry.
In times like these, when a single tweet causes a $300 million loss, answer to our research question whether should businesses be interested in social media (SM) seems obvious – yes! However, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions before thoroughly examining how exactly SM influences and shapes business processes, and assessing its overall strategic and operational
This is a reflective essay on performing a group mini project for the Mobile, Social Media and Cl... more This is a reflective essay on performing a group mini project for the Mobile, Social Media and Cloud Services module (MG5602). The paper focuses on the issue of professionalism in the technology sector and discusses the lessons I, the author of the essay, have learnt about professional practice from the whole experience of completing the mini project. This analysis is important because on the basis of the critical discussion justifiable conclusions and suggestions regarding future improved actions in similar situations will be developed. The essay is divided into two parts. In the first part I describe, evaluate and analyse my individual contribution to the completion of the mini project. Teamwork and team dynamics are described, evaluated and analysed in the second part of the reflective essay. The structure of both parts is based on the well-known Gibbs’ (1988) reflective cycle model.
The external environment for many organisations now days is characterised by turbulence associate... more The external environment for many organisations now days is characterised by turbulence associated with globalization, deregulation of markets, changing customer and investor demands and increasing product-market competition (Jashapara, 2011). There is a growing need in organisations to move beyond solving existing problems to improving continuously in the face of changing conditions (Hamel and Prahalad, 1994). Knowledge has emerged as the most strategically significant resource of the firm (Grant, 1996) and the ability of a firm to learn faster than its competitors as the only sustainable form of competitive advantage (De Geus, 1988). In accordance with the view of knowledge as a capability Newell et al. (2009) define knowledge management as processes aimed at improving the ways in which firms facing highly turbulent environments can leverage their knowledge assets in order to ensure continuous innovation. Innovations rely heavily on social interactions between different interests (Jashapara, 2011). Hence Jashapara (2011) concludes that social networks are essential for the success of innovations. Starbucks is an international coffee house chain, which consistently attracted around 60 million weekly visitors across the globe (Michelli, 2007), before it saw its earnings drop drastically in 2008 (York, 2010). To re-boost its decreasing sales Starbucks started experimenting with social media services (Schultz and Gordon, 2011). In 2010 the coffee chain began to see sales lifts following its social media endeavours (York, 2010). The following formal report will: first, critically discuss the nature and process of knowledge creation and transfer within organisations; second, critically evaluate how organisational and social dynamics combine to engender innovation; third, analyse how Starbucks applied the discussed concepts and theories to its customer-centric knowledge management strategy; fourth, provide recommendations for Starbucks how to even increase its innovation capacity with further exploitation of social media.
In its first part the individual executive summary report explains the consulting task we were gi... more In its first part the individual executive summary report explains the consulting task we were given and describes my part of the proposed solution. The rest of the report answers following questions in a critically reflective manner: what I did during the consultation meetings, what I did in developing the group, what I did in developing the solution, and what I did in preparing and delivering the presentation. The report also discusses what might have been done differently in order to improve the overall experience.
Purpose: Commercial businesses claim social software features are a particularly powerful source ... more Purpose: Commercial businesses claim social software features are a particularly powerful source of motivation that can be leveraged in many ways in order to drive user adoption of wearable technology. In that regard, the aim of this dissertation was to identify and evaluate the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology. The conceptual model devised was based upon an existing study that designed and tested a technology acceptance model (TAM) for smart watches. In order to investigate the role of social software perceived critical mass and subjective norm were added to the original TAM for smart wearables as potential predictors of user behaviour. Methodology: An online survey assessed the proposed determinants of smart fitness trackers (Fitbit) adoption. Principal components factor analysis was performed to test the construct validity. Indicators were checked for internal reliability using Cronbach’s α. The hypothesised relationships were tested using standard multiple regression analysis. Standard multiple regression analysis was also conducted to compare the model’s overall predictive fit of the original TAM for smart wearables to the extended TAM for smart wearables. Principal components factor analysis and multiple regression were conducted on collected data (n=88) using the “SPSS Statistics 20” software. Findings: Results confirmed all the proposed relationships stemming from the original TAM for smart wearables. However, the proposed effects of perceived critical mass and subjective norm on perceived usefulness and consequently on user adoption were different than expected. Subjective norm was confirmed to exert a positive effect on perceived usefulness (B=0.004), however, the effect was minimal. Perceived critical mass was, similarly, found out to exert only a minimal effect on perceived usefulness, but the direction of this effect was negative (B=-0.015). Therefore, the proposed positive relationship between perceived critical mass and perceived usefulness and consequently user adoption was not confirmed. Adding perceived critical mass and subjective norm to the original TAM for smart wearables increased R2 for only 0.1%, thus extended TAM explained individual acceptance of smart wearables only slightly better than the original TAM did. Implications: The results, although inexpressive, did indicate that in order to increase sales of smart fitness trackers businesses should built their marketing strategies on accentuating the ease of use of these devices and not their social software features, as it is widely believed. Originality/Value: Although businesses strongly bet on social connections as a potent means for encouraging sustained user engagement, empirical studies of the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology are non-existent. This dissertation was one of the first scholarly attempts to include social influence factors into a prediction of smart wearables usage model, with implications for the adoption of future wearable technology.
Key Words: social software, user adoption, wearable technology, technology acceptance model (TAM), Fitbit.
Business Intelligence (BI) refers to the ability of a company to use information to gain a compet... more Business Intelligence (BI) refers to the ability of a company to use information to gain a competitive edge over competitors (Gartner, 2009). Turban et al. (2011) mark BI for an umbrella term that combines architectures, tools, databases, analytical tools, applications, and methodologies, whose main objective is to enable interactive access to and manipulation of data, and to give business managers the ability to conduct data analysis. Analysis of data provides decision-makers with valuable insights, which enable them to make more informed decisions, leading to business value creation. Data Intelligence Consulting company (DIC) believes a tailored BI solution would improve its client’s business. Royal Mail International (RMI) has an annual operational budget of £62 million, and is currently struggling to identify, understand, and reduce this spend. The following essay will: identify issues where BI can be applied for supporting informed business decision-making, and relate the topic to RMI; discuss BI methods and techniques that can be applied to enhance informed decision-making, and relate the topic to RMI; describe the proposed BI solution for RMI’s problem; evaluate factors influencing applications of BI, and relate the topic to RMI.
The academic essay has critically discussed, analysed and evaluated application of quantitative, ... more The academic essay has critically discussed, analysed and evaluated application of quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methodological approaches in three academic journal articles, all investigating various influences on firm’s innovation. Due to the word limit only several carefully selected methodological elements per article were inspected in-depth, the selection criterion for inspection being the degree of perceived ambiguity whether the methodological choice was the best possible. Analysis has shown that selection of an appropriate research methodological approach in most cases depends on the nature of the research topic, and that authors put a great deal of emphasis on verification of data, even though in qualitative research this should not be the main issue.
Internet is a ubiquitous information platform which firms use to provide information, to provide ... more Internet is a ubiquitous information platform which firms use to provide information, to provide connectivity and community, to allow transactions, and to share cost reductions (Sharma and Sheth, 2004). Muzellec, Ronteau and Lambkin (2015) claim this definition of Internet is important because it implies that most Internet businesses are in fact intermediary platforms. “Internet intermediaries bring together or facilitate transactions between third parties on the Internet. They give access to, host, transmit and index content, products and services originated by third parties on the Internet or provide Internet-based services to third parties” (OECD, 2010, p. 9).
Internet has significantly changed the patterns and competitions for firms to conduct business (Amit and Zott, 2001; Porter, 2001). It provides means for firms to improve their competitive advantage and offers new ways to deal with business in information and communication (e.g. e-mail, websites, and e-commerce) (Jaw, Chang and Chen, 2010).
In the following essay we critically analyse state-of-the-art literature on how Internet platforms affect entrepreneurial firms. First, a clear method is elaborated for selecting the journals and articles to be analysed. Second, a critical review of the content of the articles analysed (aims and objectives; theoretical background; sample characteristics and data analysis; findings) is provided. Last, conclusions, implications for entrepreneurs, limitations, and future research directions are elaborated.
Twitter is a free social networking site that allows users to post micro-blog messages known as t... more Twitter is a free social networking site that allows users to post micro-blog messages known as tweets, comprised of 140 characters. Messages are deployed on the user’s personal site and to the user’s list of followers, other users who have opted to receive those messages. Users have the capability to send messages directed to other users (i.e., @username), to retweet messages posted by others, and to follow trending topics (i.e., #trendtopic) (Williams, 2009).
During the first few years of its existence Twitter experienced constant growth. From its inception in 2006 until November 2013, when it went public, number of monthly active users increased to 230 million.
In 2009 Twitter underwent a substantial contextual change. By changing its prompt from “What are you doing” into “What is happening” the company transformed itself from a social network into an instant news channel (Brown, 2012). Suddenly every member of Twitter community had the ability to become a broadcaster and a commentator on the news. The fact that today everyone has a voice on Twitter makes Twitter an extremely powerful tool (Brown, 2012), the latter being proven time and time again with Twitter having on the spot access to eyewitness account about world events long before any other news channel is able to begin broadcasting.
In the past outsourcing was primarily relegated to the procurement of non-core components and ser... more In the past outsourcing was primarily relegated to the procurement of non-core components and services. However, currently the outsourcing trend has expanded to include virtually every activity of a firm, including core and non-core components, business processes, information technology processes, manufacturing, distribution activities, and customer support activities (Chamberland, 2003). Venkatesan (1992) believes the growth in the importance of outsourcing can be attributed to the ability of outsourcing programs to create competitive advantages for firms. Due to its growing importance outsourcing has become not only a key component of supply chain management strategies (Chase, Jacobs and Aquilano, 2004), but also a strategic component of business strategies (Kakabadse and Kakabadse, 2003).
One of the sectors extensively involved with outsourcing processes is manufacturing (Oshri, Kotlarsky and Willcocks, 2009). Procter & Gamble (P&G) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer packaged goods. In 2003 P&G decided to outsource facility management functions on an unprecedented scale. They signed a groundbreaking contract with Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), delegating the supplier the responsibility to oversee 14 million square feet of real estate at 165 sites in 60 countries (Siemens PLM Software, 2008). JLL has provided integrated facilities management, project development, construction management, and strategic occupancy planning services to P&G since 2003 and real estate transaction management and lease administration services since 2008. JLL was recognized by P&G as “Supplier of the Year” in 2008 and 2009, and is also a three-time winner of P&G’s Global Business Services “Excellence Award.” In May 2012 companies announced a five-year renewal of their global strategic alliance relationship (Bloomberg, 2013).
In order to successfully carry out such a substantial outsourcing contract, P&G must be doing something right. To discover the crucial factors which led to such remarkable outsourcing results this assignment will investigate how outsourcing has influenced and shaped P&G’s supply chain strategy and supply chain processes. Apart from assessing the overall strategic and operational impact of outsourcing on P&G’s business we will also devise a plan for P&G to outsource its invoice verification process and include suggestions and recommendations for further operational improvements.
On the 30th October 2015 Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination in Unite... more On the 30th October 2015 Hillary Clinton, the front-runner for the Democratic nomination in United States presidential election 2016, held a speech on the criminal justice system. After her speech she summoned her comments in a tweet which read: ”We need to end private prisons. Protecting public safety...should never be outsourced or left to unaccountable corporations”.
Within hours the infamous tweet wiped millions of dollars off the value of private prison industry.
In times like these, when a single tweet causes a $300 million loss, answer to our research question whether should businesses be interested in social media (SM) seems obvious – yes! However, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions before thoroughly examining how exactly SM influences and shapes business processes, and assessing its overall strategic and operational
This is a reflective essay on performing a group mini project for the Mobile, Social Media and Cl... more This is a reflective essay on performing a group mini project for the Mobile, Social Media and Cloud Services module (MG5602). The paper focuses on the issue of professionalism in the technology sector and discusses the lessons I, the author of the essay, have learnt about professional practice from the whole experience of completing the mini project. This analysis is important because on the basis of the critical discussion justifiable conclusions and suggestions regarding future improved actions in similar situations will be developed. The essay is divided into two parts. In the first part I describe, evaluate and analyse my individual contribution to the completion of the mini project. Teamwork and team dynamics are described, evaluated and analysed in the second part of the reflective essay. The structure of both parts is based on the well-known Gibbs’ (1988) reflective cycle model.
The external environment for many organisations now days is characterised by turbulence associate... more The external environment for many organisations now days is characterised by turbulence associated with globalization, deregulation of markets, changing customer and investor demands and increasing product-market competition (Jashapara, 2011). There is a growing need in organisations to move beyond solving existing problems to improving continuously in the face of changing conditions (Hamel and Prahalad, 1994). Knowledge has emerged as the most strategically significant resource of the firm (Grant, 1996) and the ability of a firm to learn faster than its competitors as the only sustainable form of competitive advantage (De Geus, 1988). In accordance with the view of knowledge as a capability Newell et al. (2009) define knowledge management as processes aimed at improving the ways in which firms facing highly turbulent environments can leverage their knowledge assets in order to ensure continuous innovation. Innovations rely heavily on social interactions between different interests (Jashapara, 2011). Hence Jashapara (2011) concludes that social networks are essential for the success of innovations. Starbucks is an international coffee house chain, which consistently attracted around 60 million weekly visitors across the globe (Michelli, 2007), before it saw its earnings drop drastically in 2008 (York, 2010). To re-boost its decreasing sales Starbucks started experimenting with social media services (Schultz and Gordon, 2011). In 2010 the coffee chain began to see sales lifts following its social media endeavours (York, 2010). The following formal report will: first, critically discuss the nature and process of knowledge creation and transfer within organisations; second, critically evaluate how organisational and social dynamics combine to engender innovation; third, analyse how Starbucks applied the discussed concepts and theories to its customer-centric knowledge management strategy; fourth, provide recommendations for Starbucks how to even increase its innovation capacity with further exploitation of social media.
In its first part the individual executive summary report explains the consulting task we were gi... more In its first part the individual executive summary report explains the consulting task we were given and describes my part of the proposed solution. The rest of the report answers following questions in a critically reflective manner: what I did during the consultation meetings, what I did in developing the group, what I did in developing the solution, and what I did in preparing and delivering the presentation. The report also discusses what might have been done differently in order to improve the overall experience.
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Papers by Helen Zagar
Methodology: An online survey assessed the proposed determinants of smart fitness trackers (Fitbit) adoption. Principal components factor analysis was performed to test the construct validity. Indicators were checked for internal reliability using Cronbach’s α. The hypothesised relationships were tested using standard multiple regression analysis. Standard multiple regression analysis was also conducted to compare the model’s overall predictive fit of the original TAM for smart wearables to the extended TAM for smart wearables. Principal components factor analysis and multiple regression were conducted on collected data (n=88) using the “SPSS Statistics 20” software.
Findings: Results confirmed all the proposed relationships stemming from the original TAM for smart wearables. However, the proposed effects of perceived critical mass and subjective norm on perceived usefulness and consequently on user adoption were different than expected. Subjective norm was confirmed to exert a positive effect on perceived usefulness (B=0.004), however, the effect was minimal. Perceived critical mass was, similarly, found out to exert only a minimal effect on perceived usefulness, but the direction of this effect was negative (B=-0.015). Therefore, the proposed positive relationship between perceived critical mass and perceived usefulness and consequently user adoption was not confirmed. Adding perceived critical mass and subjective norm to the original TAM for smart wearables increased R2 for only 0.1%, thus extended TAM explained individual acceptance of smart wearables only slightly better than the original TAM did.
Implications: The results, although inexpressive, did indicate that in order to increase sales of smart fitness trackers businesses should built their marketing strategies on accentuating the ease of use of these devices and not their social software features, as it is widely believed.
Originality/Value: Although businesses strongly bet on social connections as a potent means for encouraging sustained user engagement, empirical studies of the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology are non-existent. This dissertation was one of the first scholarly attempts to include social influence factors into a prediction of smart wearables usage model, with implications for the adoption of future wearable technology.
Key Words: social software, user adoption, wearable technology, technology acceptance model (TAM), Fitbit.
Internet has significantly changed the patterns and competitions for firms to conduct business (Amit and Zott, 2001; Porter, 2001). It provides means for firms to improve their competitive advantage and offers new ways to deal with business in information and communication (e.g. e-mail, websites, and e-commerce) (Jaw, Chang and Chen, 2010).
In the following essay we critically analyse state-of-the-art literature on how Internet platforms affect entrepreneurial firms. First, a clear method is elaborated for selecting the journals and articles to be analysed. Second, a critical review of the content of the articles analysed (aims and objectives; theoretical background; sample characteristics and data analysis; findings) is provided. Last, conclusions, implications for entrepreneurs, limitations, and future research directions are elaborated.
During the first few years of its existence Twitter experienced constant growth. From its inception in 2006 until November 2013, when it went public, number of monthly active users increased to 230 million.
In 2009 Twitter underwent a substantial contextual change. By changing its prompt from “What are you doing” into “What is happening” the company transformed itself from a social network into an instant news channel (Brown, 2012). Suddenly every member of Twitter community had the ability to become a broadcaster and a commentator on the news. The fact that today everyone has a voice on Twitter makes Twitter an extremely powerful tool (Brown, 2012), the latter being proven time and time again with Twitter having on the spot access to eyewitness account about world events long before any other news channel is able to begin broadcasting.
One of the sectors extensively involved with outsourcing processes is manufacturing (Oshri, Kotlarsky and Willcocks, 2009). Procter & Gamble (P&G) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer packaged goods. In 2003 P&G decided to outsource facility management functions on an unprecedented scale. They signed a groundbreaking contract with Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), delegating the supplier the responsibility to oversee 14 million square feet of real estate at 165 sites in 60 countries (Siemens PLM Software, 2008). JLL has provided integrated facilities management, project development, construction management, and strategic occupancy planning services to P&G since 2003 and real estate transaction management and lease administration services since 2008. JLL was recognized by P&G as “Supplier of the Year” in 2008 and 2009, and is also a three-time winner of P&G’s Global Business Services “Excellence Award.” In May 2012 companies announced a five-year renewal of their global strategic alliance relationship (Bloomberg, 2013).
In order to successfully carry out such a substantial outsourcing contract, P&G must be doing something right. To discover the crucial factors which led to such remarkable outsourcing results this assignment will investigate how outsourcing has influenced and shaped P&G’s supply chain strategy and supply chain processes. Apart from assessing the overall strategic and operational impact of outsourcing on P&G’s business we will also devise a plan for P&G to outsource its invoice verification process and include suggestions and recommendations for further operational improvements.
Within hours the infamous tweet wiped millions of dollars off the value of private prison industry.
In times like these, when a single tweet causes a $300 million loss, answer to our research question whether should businesses be interested in social media (SM) seems obvious – yes! However, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions before thoroughly examining how exactly SM influences and shapes business processes, and assessing its overall strategic and operational
Starbucks is an international coffee house chain, which consistently attracted around 60 million weekly visitors across the globe (Michelli, 2007), before it saw its earnings drop drastically in 2008 (York, 2010). To re-boost its decreasing sales Starbucks started experimenting with social media services (Schultz and Gordon, 2011). In 2010 the coffee chain began to see sales lifts following its social media endeavours (York, 2010).
The following formal report will: first, critically discuss the nature and process of knowledge creation and transfer within organisations; second, critically evaluate how organisational and social dynamics combine to engender innovation; third, analyse how Starbucks applied the discussed concepts and theories to its customer-centric knowledge management strategy; fourth, provide recommendations for Starbucks how to even increase its innovation capacity with further exploitation of social media.
Methodology: An online survey assessed the proposed determinants of smart fitness trackers (Fitbit) adoption. Principal components factor analysis was performed to test the construct validity. Indicators were checked for internal reliability using Cronbach’s α. The hypothesised relationships were tested using standard multiple regression analysis. Standard multiple regression analysis was also conducted to compare the model’s overall predictive fit of the original TAM for smart wearables to the extended TAM for smart wearables. Principal components factor analysis and multiple regression were conducted on collected data (n=88) using the “SPSS Statistics 20” software.
Findings: Results confirmed all the proposed relationships stemming from the original TAM for smart wearables. However, the proposed effects of perceived critical mass and subjective norm on perceived usefulness and consequently on user adoption were different than expected. Subjective norm was confirmed to exert a positive effect on perceived usefulness (B=0.004), however, the effect was minimal. Perceived critical mass was, similarly, found out to exert only a minimal effect on perceived usefulness, but the direction of this effect was negative (B=-0.015). Therefore, the proposed positive relationship between perceived critical mass and perceived usefulness and consequently user adoption was not confirmed. Adding perceived critical mass and subjective norm to the original TAM for smart wearables increased R2 for only 0.1%, thus extended TAM explained individual acceptance of smart wearables only slightly better than the original TAM did.
Implications: The results, although inexpressive, did indicate that in order to increase sales of smart fitness trackers businesses should built their marketing strategies on accentuating the ease of use of these devices and not their social software features, as it is widely believed.
Originality/Value: Although businesses strongly bet on social connections as a potent means for encouraging sustained user engagement, empirical studies of the relationship between social software features and user adoption of wearable technology are non-existent. This dissertation was one of the first scholarly attempts to include social influence factors into a prediction of smart wearables usage model, with implications for the adoption of future wearable technology.
Key Words: social software, user adoption, wearable technology, technology acceptance model (TAM), Fitbit.
Internet has significantly changed the patterns and competitions for firms to conduct business (Amit and Zott, 2001; Porter, 2001). It provides means for firms to improve their competitive advantage and offers new ways to deal with business in information and communication (e.g. e-mail, websites, and e-commerce) (Jaw, Chang and Chen, 2010).
In the following essay we critically analyse state-of-the-art literature on how Internet platforms affect entrepreneurial firms. First, a clear method is elaborated for selecting the journals and articles to be analysed. Second, a critical review of the content of the articles analysed (aims and objectives; theoretical background; sample characteristics and data analysis; findings) is provided. Last, conclusions, implications for entrepreneurs, limitations, and future research directions are elaborated.
During the first few years of its existence Twitter experienced constant growth. From its inception in 2006 until November 2013, when it went public, number of monthly active users increased to 230 million.
In 2009 Twitter underwent a substantial contextual change. By changing its prompt from “What are you doing” into “What is happening” the company transformed itself from a social network into an instant news channel (Brown, 2012). Suddenly every member of Twitter community had the ability to become a broadcaster and a commentator on the news. The fact that today everyone has a voice on Twitter makes Twitter an extremely powerful tool (Brown, 2012), the latter being proven time and time again with Twitter having on the spot access to eyewitness account about world events long before any other news channel is able to begin broadcasting.
One of the sectors extensively involved with outsourcing processes is manufacturing (Oshri, Kotlarsky and Willcocks, 2009). Procter & Gamble (P&G) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer packaged goods. In 2003 P&G decided to outsource facility management functions on an unprecedented scale. They signed a groundbreaking contract with Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), delegating the supplier the responsibility to oversee 14 million square feet of real estate at 165 sites in 60 countries (Siemens PLM Software, 2008). JLL has provided integrated facilities management, project development, construction management, and strategic occupancy planning services to P&G since 2003 and real estate transaction management and lease administration services since 2008. JLL was recognized by P&G as “Supplier of the Year” in 2008 and 2009, and is also a three-time winner of P&G’s Global Business Services “Excellence Award.” In May 2012 companies announced a five-year renewal of their global strategic alliance relationship (Bloomberg, 2013).
In order to successfully carry out such a substantial outsourcing contract, P&G must be doing something right. To discover the crucial factors which led to such remarkable outsourcing results this assignment will investigate how outsourcing has influenced and shaped P&G’s supply chain strategy and supply chain processes. Apart from assessing the overall strategic and operational impact of outsourcing on P&G’s business we will also devise a plan for P&G to outsource its invoice verification process and include suggestions and recommendations for further operational improvements.
Within hours the infamous tweet wiped millions of dollars off the value of private prison industry.
In times like these, when a single tweet causes a $300 million loss, answer to our research question whether should businesses be interested in social media (SM) seems obvious – yes! However, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions before thoroughly examining how exactly SM influences and shapes business processes, and assessing its overall strategic and operational
Starbucks is an international coffee house chain, which consistently attracted around 60 million weekly visitors across the globe (Michelli, 2007), before it saw its earnings drop drastically in 2008 (York, 2010). To re-boost its decreasing sales Starbucks started experimenting with social media services (Schultz and Gordon, 2011). In 2010 the coffee chain began to see sales lifts following its social media endeavours (York, 2010).
The following formal report will: first, critically discuss the nature and process of knowledge creation and transfer within organisations; second, critically evaluate how organisational and social dynamics combine to engender innovation; third, analyse how Starbucks applied the discussed concepts and theories to its customer-centric knowledge management strategy; fourth, provide recommendations for Starbucks how to even increase its innovation capacity with further exploitation of social media.