Teasing out fieldwork challenges with e-mail methods in cross-border research

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 402-418
Author(s):  
Coral Ingley ◽  
Smita Singh ◽  
Alanah Malkani
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Senior Executives ◽  
Research Experience ◽  
Business Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cross Border ◽  
Reflexive Practice ◽  
International Business Research ◽  
E Mail

Purpose The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to reflect on the value of e-mails for recruiting and interviewing in a specific context in qualitative research, and second, to reflect on the benefits of the reflexive practice in sharing the research experience for gaining a deeper understanding of the field. The purpose is to raise points for consideration in research design for the e-mail method in this type of study. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on reflexivity and integrates fieldwork experiences to present the shared reflections and insights into the enabling and constraining aspects of using e-mail interviews with hard-to-access participants such as senior executives of international businesses. Findings Closer consideration needs to be given to the use of e-mail interviewing in the research design for such studies, especially regarding culturally held preconceptions about the research environment and how the inevitable challenges in engaging in cross-border research may be resolved. Originality/value The paper yields unanticipated insights into the potential of e-mail interviewing for studies that require responses from key informants who are otherwise unlikely to participate in the research. The paper brings greater transparency to researchers regarding the realities of using the method in this context, and thus, it expands the hitherto small repertoire of such studies in qualitative international business research. The contribution also lies in the value of deliberately creating a space for reflexive conversations that open the possibility of more profound understandings in qualitative research.

The ride-along: a journey in qualitative research

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 121-131 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marc C.A. Wegerif
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Social Science ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Food Systems ◽  
Social Science Research ◽  
Science Research ◽  
Research Experience ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Qualitative Research Methodology ◽  
Design And Practice

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to show why and how the “ride-along” can add great value to qualitative research. Design/methodology/approach The paper is primarily based on ethnographic research into food systems that the author carried out in Tanzania and draws on other research experience and existing literature on the “go-along” and “walk-along”. Findings Transport choices are made in all social science research and therefore deserve greater attention in research design. Transport will influence how the researcher is perceived and what they will experience and find. The ride-along, when done well, minimises the risks and adds value to qualitative research. Practical implications Researchers need to be reflexive about transport choices and give them greater consideration in research design and practice. The examples from field experience and the considerations identified in this paper will assist researchers and their supervisors in this process. Originality/value Despite the ubiquity of mobility in social science research, there is surprisingly little literature on the subject, especially related to the use of different modes of transport. The originality is in elaborating the importance of the ride-along and the value is in the clearly identified lessons for qualitative research methodology teaching and practice.

Understanding cross-border crime: the value of international business research

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (2/3) ◽  
pp. 119-138 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter Enderwick
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Multinational Enterprises ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Business Research ◽  
International Commerce ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cross Border ◽  
International Business Research ◽  
Criminal Groups ◽  
Two Sectors

Purpose Based on a considerable degree of commonality between multinational enterprises (MNEs) and cross-border criminal organisations, the purpose of this paper is to identify ways and areas in which international business (IB) research could be of value in improving understanding of the operations of cross-border criminal organisations and in the development of effective countermeasures to global crime. Design/methodology/approach A review of the characteristics of legitimate MNEs and cross-border criminal organisations is undertaken to assess the applicability of IB research approaches in understanding the strategies and structures of organised criminal groups. Findings Despite some obvious differences there appears to be sufficient commonality between legitimate and illegitimate international commerce so that the firm-centric focus of IB research could provide valuable insights complementing the policy-oriented approach of criminology. Some adaptation of IB research tools may be required. The exchange is not one-way: studies of cross-border crime also offer lessons for IB scholars. Research limitations/implications IB scholarly work on cross-border crime could enrich both the fields of IB and transnational criminology. Better understanding of criminal enterprises could also facilitate the design of more effective interdiction policies. Originality/value Despite their commonalities and interactions, the two sectors of international enterprise have developed separately, and this paper identifies and explores possible synergies between the two.

Universities as multinational enterprises? The multinational university analyzed through the eclectic paradigm

2016 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 216-228 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jose Guimon
Keyword(s):  
Multinational Enterprises ◽  
Multinational Enterprise ◽  
Analytical Framework ◽  
Business Research ◽  
Host Countries ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Education Literature ◽  
Cross Border ◽  
International Business Research ◽  
Eclectic Paradigm

Purpose The aim of this paper is to examine the emergence of multinational universities through the lens of Dunning’s eclectic paradigm. Design/methodology/approach An analytical framework combining the eclectic paradigm with the three missions of universities is proposed to explore the motives behind the cross-border activity of universities. Findings Although the analogy between a university and a multinational enterprise is flawed, this paper shows how the eclectic paradigm can still serve the purpose of better understanding why universities locate fully pledged campuses or research departments in foreign locations. A set of implications for universities and host countries are also discussed. Originality/value The internationalization of universities has been widely analyzed in the higher education literature, but few attempts have been made to draw connections with international business research. The originality of this paper lies in addressing this cross-disciplinary gap.

An investigation of the control role and effectiveness of independent non-executive directors in Malaysian public listed companies

2015 ◽  
Vol 30 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 582-609 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hairul Azlan Annuar ◽  
Hafiz Majdi Abdul Rashid
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Audit Committee ◽  
Listed Companies ◽  
Sustainable Growth ◽  
Executive Directors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Qualitative Research Design ◽  
Company Directors

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to ascertain the control role of independent non-executive directors (INEDs) in Malaysian public listed companies (PLCs), as prescribed in the Malaysian Code on Corporate Governance (MCCG).The MCCG (2000) requires substantive involvement of INEDs on the audit, nomination and remuneration board sub-committees. The study also examines the effectiveness of INEDs in discharging their monitoring roles in these sub-committees. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative research design consisting of a series of interviews with board members of Malaysian-owned PLCs on the board of Bursa Malaysia was used. Findings – Interviews with 27 company directors reveal that, due to their independence, INEDs are crucial in safeguarding the interests of smaller investors if situations arise in which shareholders’ interests may be threatened. The interviews also disclose that the audit committee possesses the most authority among the sub-committees, as it derives its power not only from the Listing Requirements but also from statute, as well as being involved in areas of the company not traditionally associated with the committee. The study also reveals the differences in opinion between executive directors and INEDs with regard to the extent of INEDs’ effectiveness. Research limitations/implications – This research utilises interviews. Generalisation may be an issue when interviews are used as the method of inquiry. In addition, the sample is not random, as access to many directors is dependent on recommendations. In addition, the respondents have been consciously selected to cover various board positions, including independent and non-independent directors. Practical implications – The findings from this research suggest that INEDs are able to discharge their responsibilities in overseeing the conduct of executives and protecting the interests of investors. In addition, the interviews disclose that the effectiveness of INEDs depends on how non-executive directors view INEDs being on the board. Rather than focusing solely on their control role, INEDS are expected to have a more proactive and progressive role in ensuring sustainable growth and the expansion of the business entity. Originality/value – There are limited studies using qualitative research design in investigating the effectiveness of INEDs in the control role of the board in developing countries. Prior studies were predominantly based upon the experience of Western economies.

scholarly journals Qualitative research interviews using online video technology – challenges and opportunities

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Charl de Villiers ◽  
Muhammad Bilal Farooq ◽  
Matteo Molinari
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Video Technology ◽  
Contextual Data ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Accounting Research ◽  
Challenges And Opportunities ◽  
Prior Literature ◽  
Research Interviews

Purpose This study aims to examine the methodological and method-related challenges and opportunities arising from the use of video interviews in qualitative accounting research, focussed on collecting contextual data and visual cues, enriching communication quality and building and maintaining rapport with interviewees. Design/methodology/approach Prior literature and the authors’ experiences using video technologies for research, including conducting interviews, inform this research. This study uses a transactional conceptual refinement of information richness theory and channel expansion theory to critically analyse the challenges and opportunities of using video technology to conduct qualitative research interviews. Findings The ability, need for and significance of collecting contextual data depend on the researchers’ ontological and epistemological assumptions, and are, therefore, influenced by their research design choices. Video technology enables researchers to view research settings by video. In addition, whilst group/panel interviews have their advantages, it is often difficult to get everyone together in person, something video technology can potentially overcome. The feasibility and the quality of video interviews can be improved if both interview participants are experienced with using video technology, as well as with judicious investment in good quality video technology and through testing and practice. We also discuss how rapport building with interviewees can be facilitated by overcoming the video’s sense of disconnect and enhancing interviewees’ willingness to engage. Originality/value The study builds on the limited prior literature and considers the challenges and opportunities related to methodology and method when conducting video-based qualitative interviews in accounting research. Broadly, qualitative researchers will find the paper useful in considering the use of video interviews and in making research design choices appropriate for video interviews.

scholarly journals Malaysian evidence supporting theoretical integration of roles of non-executive directors

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-14
Author(s):  
Hairul Azlan Annuar
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Corporate Governance ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Executive Directors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Qualitative Research Design ◽  
Company Directors ◽  
Code Of Corporate Governance

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of independent non-executive directors (INEDs) in Malaysian public listed companies (PLCs), other than the control role prescribed by agency theory and reformatory documents such as the Malaysian Code of Corporate Governance. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research design, consisting of face-to-face interviews with 27 company directors of Malaysian-owned PLCs, was instigated. Findings The interviews revealed that INEDs do more than just monitor their executive counterparts. Apart from the control role, INEDs of Malaysian companies provide a conduit for mitigating uncertainties in the environment and perform invaluable services to the host companies. Research limitations/implications This research utilized interviews. Generalizations may be an issue when interviews are used as the method of inquiry. Also, the sample is not random as access to many of the interviewed directors depended on recommendations. In addition, respondents were consciously selected in order to obtain various board positions that include independent and non-independent directors. Originality/value There are limited studies using qualitative research design in investigating INEDs’ performing other roles apart from the control role of the board in developing countries. Many of previous studies and literature in this area of corporate governance were predominantly based upon experiences of western economies.

Expanding international business research on foreignness

2014 ◽  
Vol 37 (12) ◽  
pp. 1018-1025 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arpita Joardar ◽  
Tatiana Kostova ◽  
Sibin Wu
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Research Agenda ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Business Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Future Studies ◽  
International Business Research

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present our viewpoint on the research on foreignness and provide directions for future studies. We suggest that research on foreignness can be expanded by exploring its complexity. Design/methodology/approach – This article takes the form of a viewpoint. Findings – We identify three facets of foreignness – foreignness effect (liabilities or assets) foreignness level (organizational or individual) and foreignness locus (external or internal to an entity), which have not been sufficiently examined in prior research. Originality/value – We discuss how these aspects can inform a novel research agenda in this area.

scholarly journals Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 10, No. 9

2017 ◽  
Vol 10 (9) ◽  
pp. 210
Author(s):  
Kevin Duran
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Eastern Mediterranean ◽  
Business Research ◽  
Application Form ◽  
American University ◽  
University Center ◽  
Catholic University ◽  
University Of Technology ◽  
International Business Research ◽  
E Mail

International Business Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal are greatly appreciated.International Business Research is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://recruitment.ccsenet.org and e-mail the completed application form to [email protected] for Volume 10, Number 9 Abderrazek Hassen Elkhaldi, University of Sousse, TunisiaAlireza Athari, Eastern Mediterranean University, IranAnna Paola Micheli, Univrtsity of Cassino and Southern Lazio, ItalyAurelija Burinskiene, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, LithuaniaBrian Sheehan, Thaksin University, ThailandCelina Maria Olszak, University of Economics in Katowice, PolandCheng Jing, eBay, Inc. / University of Rochester, USAChuan Huat Ong, KDU Penang University College, MalaysiaEjindu Iwelu MacDonald Morah, University of Westminster, London, UKFederica Caboni, University of Cagliari, ItalyFlorin Ionita, The Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, RomaniaGeorgeta Dragomir, “Danubius” University of Galati, RomaniaGianluca Ginesti, University of Naples “FEDERICO II”, ItalyGilberto Marquez-Illescas , Clarkson University , USAGrzegorz Zasuwa, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, PolandGuo Zi-Yi, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., USAHanna Trojanowska, Warsaw University of Technology, PolandHongliang Qiu, Tourism College of Zhejiang, ChinaHung-Che Wu, Nanfang College of Sun Yat-sen University, ChinaJorge Mongay-Hurtado, ESIC Business and Marketing School, SpainM. Muzamil Naqshbandi, University of Dubai, UAEMaria do Céu Gaspar Alves, University of Beira Interior, PortugalMaria-Madela Abrudan, University of ORADEA, RomaniaMithat Turhan, Mersin University, TurkeyMuath Eleswed, American University of Kuwait, USAMurat Akin, Omer Halisdemir University FEAS – NIGDE, TurkeyNasim Saadati, Panjab University, IndiaOnur Köprülü, Mersin University, TurkeyÖzcan IŞIK, Cumhuriyet University, TurkeyPascal Stiefenhofer, University of Brighton, UKRadoslav Jankal, University of Zilina, SlovakiaRafael Hernandez Barros, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, SpainRoberto Campos da Rocha Miranda, University Center Iesb, BrazilRomana Korez Vide, University of Maribor, SloveniaSam C Okoroafo, University of Toledo, USAShun Mun Helen Wong, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong KongValerija Botric, The Institute of Economics, Zagreb, Croatia

Evaluating qualitative research in management accounting using the criteria of “convincingness”

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 43-62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nizar Mohammad Alsharari ◽  
Mohammed Al-Shboul
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Social Science ◽  
Research Design ◽  
Management Accounting ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Research Strategies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Accounting Research ◽  
Interpretive Case Study

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extend the knowledge claim of management accounting research using qualitative research methods, in particular, the interpretive case study, and its evaluation using “convincingness” criteria demonstrating the textual authenticity, plausibility and criticality of case study findings.Design/methodology/approachQualitative research in the management accounting field considers both context and function (Burchell et al., 1980). This study sets out the rationale for adopting qualitative methodologies such as interpretive case studies in which rich, contextual and detailed data were collected and analyzed (Miles and Huberman, 1994; Mason, 2002). Methodological issues related to research design, analysis and evaluation are discussed by drawing on frameworks of social science research design. The paper sets out the procedures of an interpretive case study essential to ensuring the procedural validity of research which can be evaluated more accurately using the criteria of “convincingness” rather than positivist measures of the reliability, validity of data and the generalization of results. Textual authenticity, plausibility and critical interpretation, and how these hallmarks of “convincingness” can reflect the procedural validity of accounting research are described.FindingsQualitative research strategies such as the interpretive case study, which consider the complex settings of accounting change and practice, are found to offer deep understandings and convincing explanations of accounting change. Affirming that accounting is firmly established as a social science, the paper finds that the authenticity, plausibility and criticality of research in this field.Research limitations/implicationsThe relevance of qualitative research to contemporary accounting research is considered as an effective method to explicate theory and inform practice, which suggests that new measures to evaluate related research are required to develop the potential of selected qualitative research methodologies in accounting domains.Originality/valueQualitative research in management accounting focuses on the interpretation of meanings found in people and organizations that are subject to the influence of contextual variables. Human attributes underpin accounting conventions and change resulting from continuous technological and regulatory advances. This paper’s comprehensive account of interpretive case study research emphasizes the significance of evaluative criteria that relate, beyond reliability, to the richness of the text. This, thus, encourages and supports new and emerging researchers to seek qualitatively coherent and critical interpretations in management accounting research.

scholarly journals Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 9, No. 9

2016 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 186
Author(s):  
Kevin Duran
Keyword(s):  
Peer Review ◽  
International Business ◽  
Business Research ◽  
Application Form ◽  
International Business Research ◽  
E Mail

International Business Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal are greatly appreciated.International Business Research is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://recruitment.ccsenet.org and e-mail the completed application form to [email protected] for Volume 9, Number 9Alina BadulescuAlina Cristina NuţăAmran AwangAnna Helena JankowiakArash RiasiAshford C CheaAurelija BurinskieneBenjamin James InyangCristian Marian BarbuEva Mira BolfíkováFadi AlkaraanFlorin IonitaFrancesco CiampiGengeswari KrishnapillaiGuillaume MarceauJoanna Katarzyna BlachJolita VveinhardtKaren GulliverLadislav MuraMarcelino José JorgeMaria J. Sanchez-BuenoMohsen Malekalketab KhiabaniMuath EleswedNiccolò GordiniOzgur DemirtasRadoslav JankalRosa LombardiSam C OkoroafoSumathisri BhoopalanTu Anh PhanValeria StefanelliValerija Botric

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document