The impact of the Greek economic recession on workplace learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (5) ◽  
pp. 345-358
Author(s):  
Stavros Papakonstantinidis
Keyword(s):  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Informal Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Workplace Learning ◽  
Economic Recession ◽  
Economic Recovery ◽  
Business Success ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The paper aims to examine the impact of the Greek economic recession on workplace learning. Specifically, it surveys the views of Greek business professionals regarding whether workplace learning could be used as a competitive advantage in achieving business success. Design/methodology/approach The paper follows a qualitative research method and discusses the findings of semi-structured interviews with professionals in various industries in Greece. Findings This study provides evidence of an overall reluctance to adopt formal learning strategies. Although hiring and retaining the best talent at work is seen as a competitive advantage, Greek professionals do not attribute success to formal workplace learning. Instead, digitalization of informal learning becomes essential for acquiring new knowledge. Social implications In the first few years of Greece’s economic recovery, companies aim to keep their budgets low in anything that seems luxurious and ultimately unnecessary. The paper discusses some implications of the implementation of digitalized informal learning in business. Originality/value This study is the first to explore how Greek professionals from various business sectors and managerial levels view workplace learning during the initial years of the country’s economic recovery.

scholarly journals Determinants of innovation performance

2019 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 40-62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Esteban Lafuente ◽  
Angela Solano ◽  
Juan Carlos Leiva ◽  
Ronald Mora-Esquivel
Keyword(s):  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Knowledge Creation ◽  
Organisational Learning ◽  
Innovation Performance ◽  
Knowledge Generation ◽  
Business Success ◽  
Business Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Knowledge Intensive

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyse the relationship between organisational learning capabilities (OLCs) and innovation performance (IP) in organisational contexts where knowledge creation and exploitation are the business’ main source of competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach The study hypotheses are tested on a unique sample of 74 high-performance businesses operating in knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) industries and non-knowledge intensive sectors in 2016. The study employs a sequential deductive triangulation analysis (QUAN → qual) based on linear regression models and qualitative interviews. Findings The results indicate that OLCs positively impact IP. Additionally, the findings reveal that this relationship is stronger in organisations where knowledge creation and exploitation constitute the main source of competitive advantage, namely, KIBS firms. Research limitations/implications This paper offers insights into how the innovation outcomes of OLCs are heterogeneous across industries. This study contributes to a better understanding of the conditions under which the effects of developing learning-enhancing strategies occur in businesses operating in different industries. Practical implications Both knowledge generation and exploitation processes are critical for business success, and OLCs play a decisive role in this process. In this sense, the results suggest that managers need to turn their attention to the characteristics of business operations when considering the development of strategies aimed at enhancing OLCs. Originality/value The paper further explores the influence of OLCs on IP by analysing how organisational learning strategies interact with relevant organisational characteristics – that are linked here to the exploitation of knowledge-based resources – to yield superior IP.

Canadian chefs’ workplace learning

2015 ◽  
Vol 39 (6) ◽  
pp. 522-537 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paulette Cormier-MacBurnie ◽  
Wendy Doyle ◽  
Peter Mombourquette ◽  
Jeffrey D. Young
Keyword(s):  
Learning Outcomes ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Workplace Learning ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Professional Groups ◽  
Depth Study

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the formal and informal workplace learning of professional chefs. In particular, it considers chefs’ learning strategies and outcomes as well as the barriers to and facilitators of their workplace learning. Design/methodology/approach – The methodology is based on in-depth, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with 12 executive chefs from a variety of restaurant types. Chefs were asked questions that focused on how they learned, the learning outcomes that they experienced and factors that inhibited or facilitated their learning. Findings – Findings suggest that the strategies, outcomes, barriers and facilitators experienced by professional chefs are similar in many respects to those of other occupational/professional groups. However, there were some important differences that highlight the context of chefs’ workplace learning. Research limitations/implications – The sample, which is relatively small and local, focuses on one city in Canada, and it is limited in its generalizability. Future research should include a national survey of professional chefs. Originality/value – Using a qualitative approach, this in-depth study adds to the literature on workplace learning, strategies, outcomes, barriers, facilitators and context factors by addressing a relatively understudied profession.

scholarly journals Pengalaman Pembelajaran Informal Dalam Kalangan Sukarelawan Mycorps, Kuala Lumpur

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (2-2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ainaatul Afifah Md Saleh ◽  
Kassim Thukiman ◽  
Mohd Koharuddin Mohd Balwi ◽  
Muhammed Fauzi Othman ◽  
Mohd Azhar Abd Hamid
Keyword(s):  
Informal Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Learning Experiences ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Team Members ◽  
The Impact

The study aimed to identify informal learning experiences among MYCORPS volunteers using qualitative methods through semi-structured interviews and using snowball sampling methods. The three objectives of the study were (i) to know the informal learning experiences experienced by the MYCORPS volunteers, (ii) to identify the factors that contributed to the informal learning experiences experienced by the MYCORPS volunteers and (iii) to know the impact of the informal learning experiences experienced by the MYCORPS volunteers. The data obtained were analyzed using thematic analysis method. The informal learning experience is divided into two, soft skills and real skills. The contributing factors to the informal learning experience are learning strategies, outsiders and team members which affects the knowledge, skills and attitudes of volunteers. The chosen phenomenological approach is to understand a phenomenon. The results show that informal learning is experienced through these factors and affects knowledge, skills and attitudes. The study implicates adult learning practitioners, theories used and also the volunteers.

Impact of informal learning in the accounting profession

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (7) ◽  
pp. 429-441
Author(s):  
Michelle M. Kusaila
Keyword(s):  
Regression Analysis ◽  
Informal Learning ◽  
Workplace Learning ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Learning Activities ◽  
Accounting Profession ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Impact

Purpose This paper aims to examine the impact of informal learning contextual factors in facilitation workplace learning in the auditing profession. Design/methodology/approach Multiple linear regression analysis was used to look at the relationship between four aspects of informal learning and the impact on workplace learning using data from a cross-sectional survey of 95 audit professionals. Findings Correlation analysis identifies men perceive access to time and technology resources differently than women, but regression analysis identifies both genders are impacted by having time to participate in informal learning activities. Older, more experienced auditors’ were not as impacted by informal learning activities, but younger auditors were impacted by management support. Contrasting previous research the significance of a supportive organizational culture suggests the learning culture in public accounting firms’ support knowledge dispersion through the feedback and review process. Research limitations/implications This study was tested in one context; it could be expanded to other accounting professionals, to look for generalizability. The technology attribute can be further explored as technology adoption is pushed to new staff; future studies could explore whether the technology attribute becomes significant. Originality/value Few studies have looked at the quantitative impact of informal learning in the accounting profession. This study adds to the literature confirming the importance of the pyramid structure in encouraging the development of younger auditors and its perceived positive impact on them. In addition, it extends the importance of the time commitment to personal development, and the role it plays in informal learning.

Cybersecurity: investing for competitive outcomes

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dejan Kosutic ◽  
Federico Pigni
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Extensive Literature Review ◽  
Industry Standards ◽  
Technological Bias ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to help companies address the problem of ever-increasing cybersecurity investment that does not produce tangible business value – this is achieved by explaining the relationship between cybersecurity and competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach The impact of cybersecurity on competitive advantage was explored through a qualitative research study – the authors conducted an extensive literature review and conducted two rounds of semi-structured interviews with executives and security professionals from companies in four countries, from the financial, IT and security industries. Findings The analysis of the findings enabled the conceptualization of the Cybersecurity Competitive Advantage Model that explains how to build up cybersecurity dynamic capabilities to achieve long-term competitive advantage. Research limitations/implications The research presents the theorization of the model based on an extensive literature review, gathered information, insight from qualified respondents and the authors’ experience in the field. While we controlled for saturation and rigorously collected and analyzed the data, the inductive approach followed may limit the generalizability of the findings. Practical implications The proposed model helps explain to executives how to differentiate their company in a novel way and how to retain that competitive advantage; security professionals can use the model to organize cybersecurity and communicate to their superiors more effectively. Originality/value The presented model differs from existing literature, cybersecurity frameworks and industry standards by presenting a method of avoiding technological bias and for achieving competitive advantage.

Supplier relations impact within the UK automotive industry

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (8) ◽  
pp. 3143-3161 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dilek Demirbas ◽  
Lauren Wilkinson ◽  
David Bennett
Keyword(s):  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Production Control ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Economic Downturn ◽  
Market Uncertainty ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Supplier Relations ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand the impact of the recent recession on both the automotive manufacturer as well as their suppliers. The research aims to identify if the impact has been the same at each of the organizations, or if there has been a difference. Design/methodology/approach This paper carries out a case study research, into the need for suppliers to increase their responsiveness following recession and the impact this has had on supplier relations. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were carried out at the vehicle manufacturer with two members of production control staff from VMUK plus seven production control staff at seven tier 1 suppliers to VMUK. Findings Supply chains have been enhanced through an increased level of responsiveness, following the economic downturn and supplier relations have had a positive impact post-recession. Research limitations/implications Literature argues that competitive advantage can be achieved through responsiveness, and that responsiveness is critical during a period of volatility and market uncertainty. Furthermore, literature also argues that competitive advantage can be achieved through positive supplier relations. This study investigates both of these arguments. Originality/value This study concludes that the positive supplier relations offer a competitive advantage when there is no cost advantage to be found elsewhere. Furthermore, this study concludes that as a direct impact of the recession, supplier relations have improved within the case studies investigated.

The role of innovation in building competitive advantages: an empirical investigation

2018 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 44-69 ◽  
Author(s):  
Prodromos Chatzoglou ◽  
Dimitrios Chatzoudes
Keyword(s):  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Empirical Investigation ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Empirical Literature ◽  
Competitive Advantages ◽  
Manufacturing Companies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Structured Questionnaire

Purpose Nowadays, innovation appears as one of the main driving forces of organisational success. Despite the above fact, its impact on the propensity of an organisation to develop and sustain a competitive advantage has not yet received sufficient empirical investigation. The purpose of this paper is to enhance the existing empirical literature by focusing on the antecedents of innovation and its impact on competitive advantage. It proposes a newly developed conceptual framework that adopts a three-step approach, highlighting areas that have rarely been simultaneously examined before. Design/methodology/approach The examination of the proposed conceptual framework was performed with the use of a newly developed structured questionnaire that was distributed to a group of Greek manufacturing companies. The questionnaire has been successfully completed by chief executive officers (CEOs) from 189 different companies. CEOs were used as key respondents due to their knowledge and experience. The reliability and the validity of the questionnaire were thoroughly examined. Empirical data were analysed using the structural equation modelling technique. The study is empirical (based on primary data), explanatory (examines cause and effect relationships), deductive (tests research hypotheses) and quantitative (includes the analysis of quantitative data collected with the use of a structured questionnaire). Findings Results indicate that knowledge management, intellectual capital, organisational capabilities and organisational culture have significant direct and indirect effects on innovation, underlining the importance of their simultaneous enhancement. Finally, the positive effect of innovation on the creation of competitive advantages is empirically validated, bridging the gap in the relevant literature and offering avenues for additional future research. Originality/value The causal relationship between innovation and competitive advantage, despite its significant theoretical support, has not been empirically validated. The present paper aspires to bridge this gap, investigating the impact of innovation on the development of competitive advantages. Moreover, the present study adopts a multidimensional approach that has never been explored in the existing innovation literature, making the examination of the proposed conceptual framework an interesting research topic.

Firm size and workplace learning processes: a study of the restaurant sector

2020 ◽  
Vol 44 (2/3) ◽  
pp. 305-320
Author(s):  
Daniel Bishop
Keyword(s):  
Informal Learning ◽  
Human Resource Development ◽  
Learning Environments ◽  
Workplace Learning ◽  
Firm Size ◽  
Learning Processes ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Learning ◽  
Individual Choice ◽  
Content Type

Purpose The purpose of this paper asks how workplace learning environments change as firm size increases, and how employees respond to this. In doing so, it looks beyond an exclusive focus on formal training and incorporates more informal, work-based learning processes. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a comparative, qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews with an under-researched group of workers – waiting for staff in restaurants. The data were collected from six restaurants of different sizes. Findings As formally instituted human resource development (HRD) structures expand as firm size increases are more extensive in larger firms, this leaves less room for individual choice and agency in shaping the learning process. This does not inevitably constrain or enhance workplace learning, and can be experienced either negatively or positively by employees, depending on their previous working and learning experiences. Research limitations/implications Future research on HRD and workplace learning should acknowledge both formal and informal learning processes and the interaction between them – particularly in small and growing firms. Insights are drawn from the sociomaterial perspective help the authors to conceptualise this formality and informality. Research is needed in a wider range of sectors. Practical implications There are implications for managers in small, growing firms, in terms of how they maintain space for informal learning as formal HRD structures expand, and how they support learners who may struggle in less structured learning environments. Originality/value The paper extends current understanding of how the workplace learning environment – beyond a narrow focus on “training” – changes as firm size increases.

The impact of collaborative engagement on knowledge and performance gains in episodic collaborations

2014 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 245-269 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nancy W. Nix ◽  
Zach G. Zacharia
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Ancillary Benefits ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Empirical Survey ◽  
Collaborative Engagement ◽  
Relational Outcomes ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Ancillary Benefit

Purpose – Supply chains are embedded in a larger network of enterprises where firms exchange offerings, often compete for the same customers, and constantly innovate to improve their performance. In these dynamic environments, firms are increasingly dependent on the knowledge and expertise in external organizations to innovate, problem-solve, and improve performance. Firms are increasingly collaborating to exchange and pool skills and knowledge and deploy resources and capabilities not found in their own firm. This research using both structured interviews and survey data seeks to determine what are the direct benefits and the ancillary benefits of collaboration. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed methodology approach was utilized, using qualitative structured interviews leading to developing a research model and then an empirical survey of 473 participants who are involved in their respective organization's collaboration projects. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling to examine relationships between collaborative engagement, knowledge gained, operational outcomes and relational outcomes. Findings – The results of the study indicate that collaborative engagement has a direct effect on knowledge gained, operational outcomes and relational outcomes in collaboration. The ancillary benefit of collaboration is the learning that takes place leads to improved operational outcomes and relational outcomes. Research limitations/implications – In this research study all the constructs are only examined from a single perspective. This can be a limitation as it would be of greater value to collect data from all the members involved in the collaboration. Originality/value – Collaboration has been well studied in many fields but this research suggests an important ancillary benefit that needs to be considered when deciding to collaborate is the knowledge and learning that happens during a collaboration.

Public libraries digital services and sustainability issues

2015 ◽  
Vol 28 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 34-43 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katarina Michnik
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Sustainable Development ◽  
Digital Services ◽  
Local Politicians ◽  
Physical Spaces ◽  
The Impact

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study how Swedish local politicians perceive the impact of public library digital services on public libraries and to discuss how this can affect the sustainable development of public libraries. Design/methodology/approach – Empirical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with local politicians from 19 different Swedish municipalities. Data were treated to qualitative content analysis and discussed based on the concept of sustainable organization. Findings – According to local politicians, public library digital services may affect public libraries through changes to libraries’ physical spaces, librarians’ tasks and competencies and libraries’ economic situations. Based on these findings, public library digital services can both strengthen and weaken public library sustainability through, for example, increased access and expenditures, the latter of which may threaten public library sustainability. Research limitations/implications – Interviews did not focus specifically on the politicians’ views on public library digital services but dealt generally with their views on public libraries. To identify reasons for variations in views on this topic, follow-up interviews should be done. Data on views from public library managers would also be of use to determine the degree to which they are shared with local politicians. Originality/value – When sustainability and public libraries are discussed, the focus is generally on the library’s contribution to a sustainable society. Here, the focus is instead on the sustainability of the public library itself.

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