The “Halalification” of tourism

2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 558-577 ◽  
Author(s):  
Faiza Khan ◽  
Michelle Callanan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to address the confusing use of terminology associated with tourism undertaken by Muslims and to identify key concerns associated with this type of tourism. Design/methodology/approach This is an exploratory study and adopts a critical review of literature following the evolutionary concept analysis method. Content analysis of popular UK media, UK-based tour operators’ websites and tourism strategies of destinations popular with Muslim tourists were conducted to examine the use of terminology. Findings There is no clear difference between the various terms (halal, Muslim friendly, Islamic, etc.) used. Overall, academia uses the term Islamic tourism, while the industry and media use various terms. Among destinations, however, there is no clear and consistent use of terminology. A key concern of Islamic tourism is the role of certification in assuring travellers and the lack of standardisation of halal certification. Research limitations/implications The paper is based on literature review and secondary data analysis. It lacks primary research. Practical implications This study highlights the need for consistent use of terminology across industry. Another implication is the issue surrounding halal certification of food and the importance of trust in the seller/service provide. Another trend that industry providers need to consider is the growth of the Muslim millennial traveller and the needs of this market segment. Originality/value The paper highlights the importance of studying the Muslim tourist market and provides a starting point for further research. It highlights several issues such as the need to develop a typology of Muslim tourists. Of particular interest is the concern whether halal values in danger of being commodified in the absence of a universal agreed criterion for halal certification.

2014 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 34-36 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tajinder Toor

Purpose – This paper aims to present the importance of market segmentation and how it can be used to strategize effectively to penetrate deeper into the contact lens market. Design/methodology/approach – Market segment is a group of consumers with common needs, priorities or characteristics. Each market segment is different, and a business must target these different market segments with different marketing strategies. This paper highlights the role of market segmentation in creating an ideal target segment for contact lens market and designing a unique strategy to reach the targeted segment. Findings – Adolescents or teenagers seem to be an ideal segment to penetrate deeper into the contact lens market and to realize immediate gains. A unique or different marketing strategy is required to target and occupy adolescents. Practical implications – Targeting adolescents, who form the most promising category to penetrate the market, with a unique marketing mix will likely increase profit, revenue and return of investment.


2016 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-44
Author(s):  
Steven Tam

Purpose This article reveals a managerial issue that multinational corporations (MNCs) in China are at a strategic crossroad where their employees are competing with the same sources of guanxi networks for different business deals simultaneously. Design/methodology/approach Triggered by a real company case in China and guided by a literature review on business guanxi, the author bridged them into a specific inquiry, as little was known and should be further examined. Findings The author identified a paradoxical/applied scenario in MNCs between the use of guanxi and overall firm performance damaged by overusing it. Research limitations/implications Empirical studies are deemed necessary to seek more understanding between the role of guanxi and MNCs in China. Practical implications Guanxi is not a straightforward guarantee of business achievements in China. Management should note the influence of its actors – own employees – who can potentially diminish the positive returns of guanxi on overall firm’s achievements because of non-obvious interplays among employees and “contacts” on the overlapping guanxi networks. The larger the organisation, the higher the risk is. Originality/value This article proposes a new line of thoughts for practitioners about the effect of business guanxi on overall firm performance and serves as a starting point for academics to explore empirical research. The concept of overlapping guanxi networks is institutionalised and discussed. A three-step rule is also suggested for MNCs as a basic solution.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Oludayo Tade

Purpose This paper aims to examine the nature of frauds and insider involvement in the perpetration of frauds in Nigeria’s banking ecosystem. It probes the payment platforms mostly vulnerable to fraud attacks since the role-out of cashless policy in Nigeria in 2014. Design/methodology/approach Using secondary data on frauds and forgeries in Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation annual report of 2019, the study engaged the data on frauds and forgeries to unpack the complex dynamics in relation to bank frauds in Nigeria. Findings Findings show that fraud attacks on deposit money banks increased year in year out although the actual monetary loss dropped in 2019 as against 2018. Technology mediated transactions such as the use of automated teller machine and internet-based transactions experienced the most fraud. In relation to the role of insiders, all cadres of staff were involved in the fraud but majority of those involved were temporary staff. Practical implications Arising from this, it is suggested that banks should continue to strengthen security system and governance structures. Employing temporary staff should be phased out while online and offline vigilance should be mounted. Originality/value The study contributes to knowledge by examining the nature of frauds and unveiling the insider dimensions of fraud and the possible factors increasing the vulnerability of casual staff to perpetrate fraud.


Facilities ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 34 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 580-594 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sari Tähtinen ◽  
Inka Kojo ◽  
Suvi Nenonen

Purpose This paper aims to present empirical testing of an experience-based usability framework to study an urban area. The framework is applied to the Punavuori neighbourhood in Helsinki, Finland, to understand the issues that make this neighbourhood attractive to its users. Design/methodology/approach The experience-based usability framework for an urban area study is the 6T-model of experience of place, which was developed by combining service and experience design tools and methods as well as former research to assess the user’s experience. The framework is tested by analysing data gathered from documents, a walkthrough of the neighbourhood and interviews. Findings This paper interprets users’ experiences of the Punavuori area using the 6T-model to capture new perspectives on user-centric urban design and the management of places. The identified connections can be a starting point for investigations into users’ experiences as a part of the usability of an urban area. Research limitations/implications The results represent a beginning study into the usability and the usability experience of individuals in the built environment. The preliminary testing of the experience framework is used as a framework for the analysis of the secondary data. The user data have not been gathered in the broadest sense. Practical implications The results can be used in other experience-based research for (re-)design an existing or new area that attracts new inhabitants and business. The results can be applied by urban planners as well as place managers. Originality/value The identified points of connection provide a valuable approach to capture and discuss about user experiences in complex urban context.


2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thi Truc Huong Nguyen

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to focus on measuring financial inclusion (FI) level for the developing countries.Design/methodology/approachBy using a two-stage principal component analysis method, we construct a composite FI index to measure the degree of FI. Data are collected through secondary sources including World Bank and IMF reports for the period 2012–2018.FindingsWe have built an overall FI index which is considered as a comprehensive measure of FI, a useful tool for policymaking and policy evaluation. Comparison with other studies shows that our FI index corroborates with them.Practical implicationsBuilding a good FI measurement method is important for developing countries. It helps to assess and compare the level of FI of each country and between countries together, made easily and accurately.Originality/valueThis study emphasizes the important role of FI in the economy. From there, an FI solution is integrated into the construction and calculation of its impact on other factors. This will help policymakers to take effective measures to increase FI levels to achieve sustainable economic growth.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 179-191 ◽  
Author(s):  
Afred Suci ◽  
Hardi Hardi

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze the changes in Islamic financing literacy and draw a comparison between the intentions of Muslim and non-Muslim micro and small entrepreneurs after receiving counseling. It also observes the role of religion in the relationship between literacy and the intention to use Islamic financing. Design/methodology/approach The participants were of 60 owners of micro and small entrepreneurs who were made up of 30 Muslims and 30 non-Muslims. An Islamic financing counseling was conducted on 30 non-Muslims, and data were obtained relating to literacy and intention after the counseling. The data were analyzed using statistical descriptive, associative and comparative test. Findings There is a significant increase in literacy and intentions of non-Muslim entrepreneurs after receiving the counseling. It is also discovered that religious factor no longer influences literacy and intention of using Islamic financing after receiving the counseling. Research limitations/implications Counseling is an effective way to establish non-Muslims’ literacy and lead their intention toward the use of Islamic financing products. Practical implications There is a need to give proper knowledge about the importance of Islamic financing to non-Muslims by emphasizing the monetary values and benefits to diversify the market segment. Social implications The finding proves that Islam, in every aspect including the economy, is a blessing to the entire universe or as Muslim says, ‘rahmatan lil “alamin”. Originality/value Previous studies about Islamic financing have been mostly conducted by using survey among the Muslim population. Therefore, this study combines both survey and experiment by providing Islamic literacy counseling to non-Muslims.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Adnan Malik ◽  
Karim Ullah ◽  
Shafiullah Jan ◽  
Muhammad Atiq ◽  
Ali Abdullah

Purpose This study aims to describe the role of knowledge diffusion in evolving governance principles for Islamic banking. Design/methodology/approach This study develops a discursive theoretical debate using the discourse analysis method on the Sharīʿah principles related to interest (Riba), excessive uncertainty (Gharrar) and profit and loss sharing and their convergence with the conventional banking principles of profitability, solvency and liquidity. Findings The study proposes a novel framework that describes how knowledge diffusion bridge-up the Sharīʿah and banking principles in terms of integration of banking principles by Sharīʿah scholars, integration of Sharīʿah principles by managers and the resultant, emergent principles for the governance of Islamic banking. Practical implications The proposed framework can inform professionals on how knowledge of banking practices and Sharīʿah can help them in governing Islamic banking. The Board of Directors may adopt a holistic approach for encouraging enhanced interactions between Sharīʿah scholars and managers. Such interaction may be increasing harmony, reducing conflicts and better coordination resulting in Sharīʿah-compliant and market wise viable products and services, thus increasing banking profitability. Originality/value This is the first study, which acknowledges and illustrates the role of the knowledge diffusion process in evolving governance principles for Islamic banks. This paper contributes to the theory of corporate governance by using the knowledge, aptitude and practice theory lens to examine conceptually how Islamic banking governance principles emerged through the knowledge diffusion process.


2015 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 243-262 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lorraine Warren ◽  
Robert Smith

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the tension between rule-breaking and legitimacy for entrepreneurs, who are expected to challenge and change social or business norms. In doing so, they may be presented as heroes in the media, or alternatively, are cast out as villains with attendant negative press with consequent loss of legitimacy. Design/methodology/approach – Through secondary data methods, the paper analyses the case of Vance Miller, an entrepreneur from the North of England who has achieved economic success amid reports of alleged criminality and poor ethical behaviour. Thus he spans rule-breaking and legitimacy. Findings – The paper illustrates how rule-breaking directed towards demonstrable entrepreneurial achievement does not always result in media legitimacy. Miller’s storyline both chimes with and clashes with the discourse of the enterprise culture, providing a cautionary note for aspirant entrepreneurs. Research limitations/implications – The hero-villain paradox remains relatively unexplored in the media, and thus further qualitative research is required, particularly for aspirant entrepreneurs with controversial or criminal backgrounds. Practical implications – Entrepreneurs should question carefully the extent and potential consequences of rule breaking in regard to legitimacy. Social implications – The paper highlights and indeed questions the role of the media in their representations of entrepreneurship, and challenges the valorisation of rule-breaking behaviour by entrepreneurs. Originality/value – The paper makes a distinctive contribution to the literature by examining the relation between rule-breaking and legitimacy for an entrepreneur who is represented negatively in the media, yet remains successful, counter to the heroic stereotype.


2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (9) ◽  
pp. 1449-1473 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Schiffling ◽  
Claire Hannibal ◽  
Yiyi Fan ◽  
Matthew Tickle

PurposeBy drawing on commitment-trust theory, we examine the role of swift trust and distrust in supporting coopetition under conditions of uncertainty and interdependence in the setting of humanitarian disaster relief organisations.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents findings from case studies of 18 international humanitarian relief organisations based on 48 interviews and the analysis of publicly available documents.FindingsWe find that both swift trust and swift distrust support coopetition. As coopetition is simultaneous cooperation and competition, in this study we show how swift trust and swift distrust also occur simultaneously in coopetitive contexts.Research limitations/implicationsCoopetition as a strategic choice is well-researched in the private sector, yet has received less attention in the nonprofit sector, particularly in contexts that are shaped by interdependence and uncertainty. We show the importance of swift trust and swift distrust in coopetitive relationships by drawing on commitment-trust theory.Practical implicationsIn focusing on a competitive environment in which cooperation is essential, we find limited choice of coopetitive partners. Humanitarian relief organisations must often simply work with whichever other organisations are available. We highlight how trust and distrust are not opposite ends of a spectrum and detail how both contribute to coopetitive relationships.Originality/valueOur findings contribute to commitment-trust theory by explaining the important role of distrust in forging coopetitive relationships. Furthermore, we contribute to prior work on coopetition by focusing on an uncertain and interdependent nonprofit environment.


2017 ◽  
Vol 59 (6) ◽  
pp. 1292-1314 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Keay

Purpose The purpose of the paper is to demonstrate that notwithstanding the fact that stewardship theory embraces things like trust of directors, their professionalism, loyalty and willingness to be concerned for the interests of others, as well as rejecting the foundations of classic agency problems that are asserted by agency theory, board accountability is as relevant to stewardship theory as it is to agency theory. Design/methodology/approach The paper applies the theory underlying board accountability in corporate governance, which is so often applied both in the corporate governance literature and in practice with agency theory in mind, to stewardship theory. Findings While the idea of accountability of boards is generally associated with an explanation and conceptualisation of the role and behaviour of directors as agents within classic agency theory, the paper demonstrates that board accountability is a necessary part of board life even if the role of directors is explained and conceptualised in terms of stewardship theory. Practical implications The paper suggests some accountability mechanisms that might be employed in a stewardship approach. Originality/value While many authors have talked in general terms about board accountability and its importance, this is the first paper that has engaged in a substantial study that links board accountability directly with stewardship theory, and to establish that accountability is necessary.


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