Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mohammad A Al-hawari Author-Name-First: Mohammad A Author-Name-Last: Al-hawari Author-Email: malhawari@sharjah.ac.ae Author-Workplace-Name: University of Sharjah Title: Which Does Drive Switching Costs in Retail Banking Industry; Openness to Experience or Services Quality? Abstract: The major aim of this study is to investigate and compare the influence of service quality and openness to experience on customers switching costs. Self-administrated survey was used to collect data from bank customers in the UAE. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS.20 was used to test for the hypothesized relationship. The results showed that service quality has a positive and significant relationship with switching costs. However, the personality traits of openness to experience had a negative and significant relationship with switching costs. Bank managers should not keep a higher level of service quality regardless of the type of customers? personality of openness to experience. Bank managers need to investigate the level of this personality in order for them to identify the relational oriented customers Length: 7 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 1-7 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=001&rid=6013 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406013 Classification-JEL: M39, M31, M31 Keywords: Services Quality; Openness to experience; Switching Costs; Banks Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406013 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: ZEKI AYAG Author-Name-First: ZEKI Author-Name-Last: AYAG Author-Email: zekia@khas.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Kadir Has University Title: AHP-Based Approach to evaluate solar power plant location alternatives Abstract: Solar energy is the most readily available source of energy, and one of the most important sources of the renewable energy, because it is non-polluting and helps in lessening the greenhouse effect. Main problem of establishing a solar power plant is to determine its location. In the presence of many location alternatives and evaluation criteria, a multiple-criteria decision making problem arises. In this work, the location problem will be solved by using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to figure out the most satisfying alternative. A numerical example is also included to show the proposed methodology in Turkey. . . . . Length: 9 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 8-16 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=002&rid=5942 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405942 Classification-JEL: C00 Keywords: Solar energy, multiple-criteria decision making, analytic hierarchy process Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405942 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Priya Baguant Author-Name-First: Priya Author-Name-Last: Baguant Author-Email: pbaguant@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Sharjah Title: The Perception of Managers on the importance of a Work Life Balance Strategy: An Exploratory View Abstract: The concept of Work Life Balance has grown in importance in organizations. The challenges of long working hours, work life conflict and social strains are that employees and employers in modern organizations are trying to strike a balance.Purpose: the purpose of this paper is to investigate the perception of managers on the importance of having a work life balance strategy. The perception of the manager of a start up and that of an established company is analysed.Design: The study carried out was based on in depth interviews and thus of a qualitative nature. The interviews were semi structured and captured the perception of the managers on the types of work life conflict that arose in the organization, the types of policies implemented to restore a work life balance, the extent to which dissatisfaction could be removed by deling with work life balance. Findings: The managers interviewed were very clear on the benefits of having a work life balance strategy, the imbalance is a matter of concern and it leads to high level of dissatisfaction, according to the managers. The younger workers, having less ommitments outside work, have the urge to do well and to move up in their career and are thus more willing to have a work weighting heavier in their life. However the existence of work life balance strategy will regulate their lives in the long term. The older workers are more concern about being able to meet commitments outside work and perceive a work life balance strategy as a must for any organization.Originality: This work is investigating a pertinent human resources issue in organizations. The importance of policies and practices of work life balance have been evaluated and it suggests that there may be a need for regulations. This area of research is still to be fully explored and the work undertaken is a stepping stone for further work. Length: 5 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 17-21 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=003&rid=5986 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405986 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Perception, Work life conflict, work life balance Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405986 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Paula Bajdor Author-Name-First: Paula Author-Name-Last: Bajdor Author-Email: paula.bajdor@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology Author-Name: Tomasz Lis Author-Name-First: Tomasz Author-Name-Last: Lis Author-Email: tomlis1@wp.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology Author-Name: Aleksandra Ptak Author-Name-First: Aleksandra Author-Name-Last: Ptak Author-Email: antoinette79@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology Title: The role of information/knowledge flow in the clients? purchasing decisions Abstract: In the current reality and the conditions under which companies conduct its activity, the role of information/knowledge is gaining in importance. The Internet?s popularization had a big influence on this increasing, as Internet allows not only for information providing but also its generation. Looking further, it has also contributed to the increasing meaning of knowledge, based on a large amount of information perceived by the receivers. In the case of information that was already presented in the traditional supply chain, as one of the subjects of flows - next to products and financial resources, but its role was confined mainly to the improvement of the entire supply chain. Now, information flows that takes place between the company and its client are very important, these flows play a large role in making purchase decisions taken by clients. Because of this decision, whether to buy the product or not, the further development of the company may depend on. Therefore, the main purpose of this article was to verify whether for the clients, information about the products are important and if they play an important role in making purchase decisions. The authors focused on how clients obtain and share information/knowledge about the products offered by the company, and also examined whether for the client the efficient flow of information is important, and whether in their opinion, the company try to improve their information flows directed to its clients. Length: 11 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 22-32 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=004&rid=6067 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406067 Classification-JEL: D83, D19, M15 Keywords: information flow, knowledge, purchasing decision, client, company Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406067 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nicoletta Baskiewicz Author-Name-First: Nicoletta Author-Name-Last: Baskiewicz Author-Email: nicoletta-p@o2.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Technical University of Cz?stochowa, Faculty of Management Author-Name: Aneta Pachura Author-Name-First: Aneta Author-Name-Last: Pachura Author-Email: anetapachura@o2.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Technical University of Cz?stochowa, Faculty of Management Title: Human, Lean, Green concept and increasing number of consumers ? wind farm example Abstract: Modern enterprises constantly search for activities aimed at efficiency increase. Between centuries, new system solutions started to emerge, involving manufacturer's responsibility not only for the quality of processes and resulting products. The enterprises have been obliged to take responsibility for the product whole life cycle, for the environment and following rules of sustainable growth. This study aim is to present Human Lean, Green concepts, with their determining factors and presentation of this concept empiric implementation. Because of obvious limitations of this paper only Green concept example will be shown herein. Wind energy generation and use will be used, with its influence on enterprise competitiveness. This thesis will be then verified in terms of proving how renewable energy sources use in a jewellery shop influences growth of potential customers number and whether it is profitable in Polish conditions. Length: 15 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 33-47 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=005&rid=6100 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406100 Classification-JEL: A10, A12, A19 Keywords: Human Lean, Green concepts, sustainable growth, wind energy. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406100 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Monika Boguszewicz-Kreft Author-Name-First: Monika Author-Name-Last: Boguszewicz-Kreft Author-Email: monika.boguszewicz@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: WSB University in Gda?sk Author-Name: Ewa Magier-?akomy Author-Name-First: Ewa Author-Name-Last: Magier-?akomy Author-Email: magier.ewa@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: WSB University in Gda?sk Author-Name: Katrzyna Soko?owska Author-Name-First: Katrzyna Author-Name-Last: Soko?owska Author-Email: sokkat@wp.pl Author-Workplace-Name: WSB University in Gda?sk Author-Name: Brigita Janiunaite Author-Name-First: Brigita Author-Name-Last: Janiunaite Author-Email: brigita.janiunaite@ktu.lt Author-Workplace-Name: Kaunas University of Technology Title: Dimensions of the COO Effect Referring to Services and Products ? Polish-Lithuanian Comparisons Abstract: The COO effect is defined as an influence of an image of a particular country on the assessment of products and services coming from a given country with ensuing consumer attitudes and behavior. The article presents further adaptation of the models discussed in the literature in order to find universal attributes which would be adequate to the deeper analysis of the COO. The analyzed model of COO effect consists of the following dimensions: innovativeness, diversity, prestige quality. The following hypotheses were verified. (1)The COO dimensions influence the assessment of offers (products and services), (2) consumer?s country of origin influences the assessment in respect of the particular COO dimensions. To analyze a data collected in Poland and Lithuania the analysis of regression has been applied. Results show that country of consumer origin has got a stronger impact on assessment of offer comparing to COO?s dimensions. However it has been indicated that the assessment of products and services is differentiated, depending on the assumed COO dimensions. And some additional results indirectly show the multi-dimensional nature of the COO. Length: 17 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 48-64 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=006&rid=5914 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405914 Classification-JEL: A10 Keywords: country-of-origin (COO) effect, the dimensions of the COO effect, consumers? behavior, services marketing Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405914 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ujjwal Dave Author-Name-First: Ujjwal Author-Name-Last: Dave Author-Email: ujjwal_dave7@yahoo.co.in Author-Workplace-Name: Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University Title: Impact of social media marketing on FMCG sector in India Abstract: Since the very advent of social media,it borethe potential to transform the dynamic of marketing.This transformation promised to be so dramatic that it could not be ignored or overlooked. The corporate overlords embraced social media and acknowledged its importance in their collective marketing arsenal.The relevance of social media has been observed practically, not just in theory, in every market around the world. The ease of access and the exponential growth in the sheer volume of the market that social media brings is undeniable. Social media?s cause is aided by the ever increasing number of electronic gadgets in every household. In car terminology, if our computing devices are analogous to the wheels of a hypothetical car then the mobile platform is the equivalent of attaching wings to that car. It gives social media a whole new dimension. Social media itself is an all-inclusive term for websites that may provide radically diverse social interactions. For instance, Twitter is a website designed to let people broadcast short inferencesor ?tweets? to the rest of the world. Facebook, in contrast, is a full-fledged social networking site that allows us to share various types of content to a massive audience around the world by transcending almost every restriction posed bygeography. Facebook has effectively made this world a ?smaller? place. The significance of social media in the Indian FMCG market can be observed by analyzing the ?hustle and bustle? of the market.Various FMCG giants like Cadbury, Nestle, Pepsi Co, etc. have designed targeted social media campaigns that have been successful in the recent past. It has been observed that the youth are very responsive to such campaigns. So , the fact that 50% of the total population in India is below 30 years of age (Nelson 2014) gives further incentive to continue investing in conducting such campaigns. This research tries to broadly describe the use of social media inthe various aspects of the Indian FMCG sector. The primary research mainly focuses on the application of various social media tools in marketing of FMCG products and also investigates the use of social media as a tool for collecting feedback. Length: 15 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 65-79 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=007&rid=5808 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405808 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Supply Chain Management (SCM) Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405808 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Olga Dziubaniuk Author-Name-First: Olga Author-Name-Last: Dziubaniuk Author-Email: odziuban@abo.fi Author-Workplace-Name: Åbo Akademi University Title: Ethical responsibilities of R&D organizations: networking business and society Abstract: This empirical research contributes to the understanding of how actions of networking companies are going beyond their networks picture and impact on society. For the structural analysis of this phenomenon the concept of ethical embeddedness is applied which assumes that business organizations are embedded in a broader social network and have mutual interconnection of their functions. The research proposes that embeddedness of businesses may be exemplified via ethicality of responsibilities that specific business actors employ. Therefore, the research adopts Industrial network approach to investigate ethical embeddedness of business organizations in society and their impact on its current and future development. The ?social face? of industrial markets has being extensively discussed in the works of K. Polanyi (e.g. 1968) who collaborated on the concept of social embeddedness of the economic interaction. Granovetter (1985) has developed this idea even further by emphasizing that companies interact in social environment and the social networking is not dividable form the business networks. The concept of ethical embeddedness is adopted for this study (Lindfelt & Törnroos, 2006) which can be explained as ethical values in relations to economic values that are created in a particular business network.Empirically, this framed as a case-study research is grounded on the interviewed representatives of R&D organizations engaged in medical devices R&D activities. They excellently exemplify ethical considerations of embedded ethical responsibilities toward society as their general aim along profit achievement is to improve social welfare. Additionally, those organizations are highly dependent on the network of business partners, governmental and other institutional actors which make them perfectly suitable for this research. The research question of this study is articulated as the following: how embedded ethicality of businesses impact on interconnection between society and business organizations? In general, conceptually, this research paper contributes to the development of the concept of ethical embeddedness and to Industrial network approach theory. From the practical perspective, it aims to illustrate the attractiveness of investment in development technologies that are able to improve social welfare; the ethical value embedded in business activities and its impact on society and business partnership. Current interest to the ethical issues requires filling a research gap in lacking empirical evidences of ethical and, consequently, socially significant managerial practices executed in business networks that influence on general public good. Length: 10 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 80-89 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=008&rid=6018 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406018 Classification-JEL: L14, O32, M14 Keywords: Business ethics, social responsibility, business networks, industrial marketing, ethical embeddedness Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406018 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: JUSTYNA GÓRAL Author-Name-First: JUSTYNA Author-Name-Last: GÓRAL Author-Email: justyna.goral@ierigz.waw.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics National Research Institute Title: Farm management in a context of the Common Agriculture Policy financial support Abstract: This paper examines differences in the management styles of Polish farms. The Common Agricultural Policy has a significant impact on structure of production and decisions of farmers. The impact is visible in the financial analysis of farms. Author studies a few changes in structure of assets and many changes of economic indicators. Subsidies have an impact on value of farmland. The financial support influences on flexible management of farms. Farmers need to know all possibilities and instruments of the CAP. They ask about future draft, rules and programmes of this policy. The results demonstrate that farmers make decisions following diverse management strategies. Length: 12 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 90-101 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=009&rid=5668 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405668 Classification-JEL: H20, Q10, Q18 Keywords: farm management; the Common Agriculture Policy; subsidies; Polish farms Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405668 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mhamed ali Khemakhem Author-Name-First: Mhamed ali Author-Name-Last: Khemakhem Author-Email: mhamedali.khemakhem@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Higher Institute of Business Administration of Sfax Author-Name: zouheir abida Author-Name-First: zouheir Author-Name-Last: abida Author-Email: zouheir.abida@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Economics and Management of Sfax Title: Institutions, Foreign Direct Investment, and Economic Growth in North African Countries Abstract: This contribution investigates the causal interactions between foreign direct investment (FDI), economic freedom and economic growth in a panel of 4 countries of North Africa (Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Egypt) over the period 1980 - 2012. Using System Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) panel data analysis, we find strong evidence of a positive link between FDI and economic growth. We also find evidence that economic freedom appear to be working as a complement to FDI and, moreover, that the effect of FDI is more pronounced in the presence of the economic freedom variable. This means the countries promote greater freedom of economic activities gain significantly from the presence of multinational corporations (MNCs). Length: 13 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 102-114 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=010&rid=5669 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405669 Classification-JEL: F21, O43, C23 Keywords: Foreign direct investment, Economic freedom, Economic growth Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405669 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nikolina Koporcic Author-Name-First: Nikolina Author-Name-Last: Koporcic Author-Email: nikolina.koporcic@abo.fi Author-Workplace-Name: Åbo Akademi University Title: Born Globals in Interactive Branding Environment: A case of the BonAlive Abstract: Interactive Branding (I-Branding) environment consists of business network environments in which companies cooperate with each other through mutual interactions that are based on three dimensions: internal, external and mutual branding dimension. I-Branding as an activity is therefore presented as a business strategy through which a company is positioning itself in a local and foreign network of business relationships. Internationalization provides a new lens for this process, in which different networks of large distances are all interconnected through interactions of three branding dimensions. Born global companies are small companies with early and rapid internationalization, which are successfully implementing their strategies and fighting for a favourable position in foreign networks. In order to discover challenges and opportunities of becoming successful so rapidly, a family owned company in the pharmaceutical industry is followed over the years. Based on case findings, the paper suggests managerial implications for start-ups and born global companies, together with some direction for a future theoretical and empirical research. Length: 9 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 115-123 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=011&rid=5981 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405981 Classification-JEL: L19, F20, M13 Keywords: Interactive Branding, Born Globals, B2B, Business Networks, Internationalization. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405981 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: MALGORZATA LEGOWIK-MALOLEPSZA Author-Name-First: MALGORZATA Author-Name-Last: LEGOWIK-MALOLEPSZA Author-Email: gosialegowikmalolepsa@op.pl Author-Workplace-Name: TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CZESTOCHOWA Author-Name: SYLWIA LEGOWIK-SWIACIK Author-Name-First: SYLWIA Author-Name-Last: LEGOWIK-SWIACIK Author-Email: gosialegowikmalolepsza@op.pl Author-Workplace-Name: TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CZESTOCHOWA Author-Name: SYLWIA KOWALSKA Author-Name-First: SYLWIA Author-Name-Last: KOWALSKA Author-Email: sylwiako@zim.pcz.pl Author-Workplace-Name: TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CZESTOCHOWA Author-Name: MARCIN ST?PIE? Author-Name-First: MARCIN Author-Name-Last: ST?PIE? Author-Email: mstepien@zim.pcz.pl Author-Workplace-Name: TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CZESTOCHOWA Title: ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT USING THE SYSTEM OF RATIONALIZATION OF INFORMATION PROCESSES Abstract: The paper is aimed at learning and assessing the selected method of rationalization of information processes developed by the manufacturing company, consisting in the identification of structural factors of the information and communication function and the analysis of information processes. In the theoretical part, there has been presented the division of functions of the systems of economic information into basic functions and additional functions and there has been discussed the operation of the Strategic Information System of the company. In the empirical part, using descriptive analysis, there has been presented the method of rationalization of information processes of the manufacturing company operating in Poland, which contributes to the improvement in elementary and repetitive actions in the surveyed manufacturing company. Length: 10 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 124-133 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=012&rid=6001 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406001 Classification-JEL: M21, M21 Keywords: ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT, INFORMATION PROCESSES, BUSINESS Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406001 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mercy Erhi Makpor Author-Name-First: Mercy Erhi Author-Name-Last: Makpor Author-Email: mercyerhimakpor@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: School of Economics and Management, University of Minho Author-Name: Regina Leite Author-Name-First: Regina Author-Name-Last: Leite Author-Email: rleite@eeg.uminho.pt Author-Workplace-Name: School of Economics and Management, University of Minho Title: Corporate Social Responsibility of Oil Multinational Corporations: A focus on the challenges of Environmental Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the ever alarming constraints and challenges faced due to oil extraction in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The Niger Delta is one of the poorest regions in Nigeria due to underdevelopment and the nonchalant attitude on the part of the government to make provision for economic and infrastructural development in the region. The paper argues that while the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of oil Multinational Corporations (MNCs) has not reached its full capacity, government on the other hand, not only lack the intellectual ?know-how? of tackling the operations and activities of the oil MNCs, but also refrains from rendering suitable solutions to restiveness in the region. Under-development in the region is tilted from the part of the oil MNCs? push for exploitative susceptibilities which has invariably led to environmental degradation, poverty, displacement, and a high level of restiveness. Also the issue of excruciating poverty and the quality of life of the people have not been properly dealt with as government has not done much to diversify the natural resources of the nation into other key productive areas. Hence, the general belief that organizations and the society gain when social responsibility on the part of organizations is exhibited is therefore questioned. Length: 11 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 134-144 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=013&rid=6020 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406020 Classification-JEL: M14 Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Environmental Degradation, Niger Delta, Nigeria, Oil Multinational Corporations (MNCs), Poverty. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406020 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: RAZALI MAT ZIN Author-Name-First: RAZALI Author-Name-Last: MAT ZIN Author-Email: matali@kfupm.edu.sa Author-Workplace-Name: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS Author-Name: AMINE NEHARI TALET Author-Name-First: AMINE Author-Name-Last: NEHARI TALET Author-Email: nehari@kfupm.edu.sa Author-Workplace-Name: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS Title: THE EFFECTS OF PARTICIPATION IN DECISION MAKING ON ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT: SOME EMPIRICAL EVIDENCES Abstract: This study examines the relationship between attitudes of non-management professional staff members in Saudi Public Works Department (PWD) toward participation in decision-making (PDM) and their organizational commitment (OC). It also intends to analyze the extent to which organizational variables and individual/personality variables moderate the participation organizational commitment. From a total of 384 questionnaires which were distributed to non-management professional staff, 328 (85.4%) were returned and usable for the analysis. The results of this study show that the male non-management professional staff in the Saudi PWD perceived that they are not satisfied with the level of participation in decision making in their organization. However, those respondents who perceived they enjoy a higher level of participation tended to feel more committed to the organization. The analyses of moderator variables revealed that increased participation in decision-making would increase commitment to the organization among the non-management professional staff who perceive their superiors as having favorable attitudes toward PDM. For the respondents who perceive they have a high competency level, an increase in participation in all the three decision areas (social, personnel, economic/strategic) heightens their commitment to extra effort and to develop professionally but decreases their desire to remain in the organization. Non-management professional staff who perceive they have high opportunities for career advancement tend to demonstrate high commitment to remain in the organization, to exert extra effort, and to develop professionally. For those who were highly satisfied with communication process in organization, increased participation in decision making on social and economic/strategic related issues raised their commitment to conform with the rules, remain in the organization, exert extra effort, and develop professionally. Some recommendations were proposed at the end of the paper. Length: 13 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 145-157 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=014&rid=5991 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405991 Classification-JEL: O15 Keywords: Participation in decision making; organizational commitment; non-management professionals. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405991 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tony Matchaba-Hove Author-Name-First: Tony Author-Name-Last: Matchaba-Hove Author-Email: tony.matchaba-hove@nmmu.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Title: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? INTENTIONS TO MAKE USE OF FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES: A SOUTH AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE Abstract: The global financial crisis coupled with an increase in life expectancy, declining working age population and economic pressures have heightened the need to be active in analysing financial resources. In South Africa, national and global economic pressures, rising health care costs and other societal factors have caused the vast majority of the population to remain underprepared financially. Young professionals are ideally positioned to combat these pressures, due to the benefits of having a longer time horizon to save and invest. However, research has shown that young professionals fail to take advantage of financial planning services early enough in life. Therefore the purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the intentions of young professionals? to make use of financial planning services. From the literature, four factors were identified, namely Financial goals and objectives, Financial knowledge, Role of a financial planner and Personal circumstances. A measuring instrument, in the form of a self-administered questionnaire, was distributed to 350 respondents residing in the Eastern and Western Cape provinces of South Africa. The data collected yielded 284 usable questionnaires which were subjected to various statistical analyses. An exploratory factor analysis was undertaken and Cronbach?s alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument respectively. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarise the sample data and the hypothesised relationships were assessed by means of multiple regression analysis. The results of this study show that Financial goals and objectives, Role of a financial planner and Financial knowledge were found to have a significant influence on the Intentions to make use of financial planning services. Based on the results the study, recommendations and suggestions for further research were provided. Length: 12 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 158-169 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=015&rid=5678 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405678 Classification-JEL: G29, L84 Keywords: Financial planning, Young professionals, South Africa, Advisory services, Financial knowledge Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405678 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Joanna Paw?owska-Tyszko Author-Name-First: Joanna Author-Name-Last: Paw?owska-Tyszko Author-Email: joanna.tyszko@ierigz.waw.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics ? National Research Institute Author-Name: Micha? Soliwoda Author-Name-First: Micha? Author-Name-Last: Soliwoda Author-Email: michal.soliwoda@ierigz.waw.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics ? National Research Institute Title: Agricultural accounting systems supporting farm financial management ? the case of Polish FADN Abstract: There is a limited number of research papers referring to the question how accounting systems affect economic and financial results of farms. The aim of this paper was to assess how agricultural accounting systems may support farm financial management, based on a case of Polish Farm Accountancy Data Network (Polish FADN). We presented the evolution, the current state and challenges for development of agricultural accounting in Poland. Selected features of FADN, taking into account the legal and organizational aspects were presented. Particular attention was paid to some aspects of usefulness of Polish FADN from the perspective of farm financial management (a micro focus). This study used multiple methodologies (mainly,elements of case study), to gather evidence. The FADN system in Poland brings several direct and indirect benefits, both at micro (for farmers) and sectoral levels. Individual Farm Report may support financial planning, but inflow of some detailed data on costs/margins may be very useful. The necessary rationale for using FADN system for supporting financial management is the strong need for providing more detailed data within the accounting system. Length: 12 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 170-181 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=016&rid=5666 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405666 Classification-JEL: M41, Q14, Q18 Keywords: agricultural accounting, financial management, farm, FADN, Polish agriculture Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405666 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Paula Rodrigues Author-Name-First: Paula Author-Name-Last: Rodrigues Author-Email: pcristinalopesrodrigues@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Lusiada University Author-Name: Hélder Oliveira Author-Name-First: Hélder Author-Name-Last: Oliveira Author-Email: geral@eurotoc.com Author-Workplace-Name: Lusiada University Title: The Relation of Cultural Values and CSR: A study in Portugal and Greece Abstract: This study aims to examine the relationship between individual cultural values and consumers? perceptions about practices of social responsibility in Portugal and Greece. Data collection was undertaken using a structured questionnaire both in Portugal and Greece. Two theoretical models of structural equations that establish the relationship between cultural values and perceptions of consumers about practices of social responsibility were estimated. The results suggest that individual cultural values of Portuguese consumers influencing the perception of CSR practices are masculinity (MAS), tradition (TRD) and prudence (PRU). In the case of Greece consumers, individual cultural values influencing perception of CSR practices are interdependence (INT), independence (IND), gender equality (GEQ) and prudence (PRU). This paper demonstrates the importance of the subject, since consumers assume different perspectives and value different aspects of CSR practices, and companies must be aware of these differences if they want to effectively reach consumers. Length: 14 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 182-195 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=017&rid=5970 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405970 Classification-JEL: M00 Keywords: individual cultural values, corporate social responsibility, cross-cultural studies, consumer behaviour, structural equation models. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405970 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Chantal Rootman Author-Name-First: Chantal Author-Name-Last: Rootman Author-Email: chantal.rootman@nmmu.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Title: How social media tools influence brand image and buying behaviour in the South African food retail industry Abstract: Given the importance of a business being able to create a positive brand image and positively influence customer buying behaviour, there is a lack of research on the role that social media tools can play in this regard. Research studies have focussed on determining the advantages of using social media tools, however, the impact of social media tools specifically on businesses? brand image and customer buying behaviour has not been investigated. In addition, this has not been researched in the context of food retailers. The South African food retail industry is an important contributor to this developing country?s economy. However, Gross Domestic Product growth and sales growth in the South African food retail industry are stagnating. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to investigate the influence of social media tools on brand image and customer buying behaviour in the food retail industry. A questionnaire was used in an empirical investigation to gather the responses of 180 customers in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. The questionnaires were subjected to various statistical analyses and significant relationships were found among the independent (Official websites, Facebook and Twitter), intervening (Brand image) and dependent (Customer buying behaviour) variables. This study?s recommendations could assist South African food retailers to use social media tools in ways to ensure a positive brand image, and to positively influence customers? buying behaviour. This may lead to more successful food retailers and ultimately contribute positively to the South African economy. Length: 13 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 196-208 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=018&rid=5542 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405542 Classification-JEL: M31 Keywords: brand image; customer buying behaviour; food retail industry; social media tools Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405542 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Chantal Rootman Author-Name-First: Chantal Author-Name-Last: Rootman Author-Email: chantal.rootman@nmmu.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Author-Name: Janine Krüger Author-Name-First: Janine Author-Name-Last: Krüger Author-Email: janine.kruger@nmmu.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Author-Name: Tony Matchaba-hove Author-Name-First: Tony Author-Name-Last: Matchaba-hove Author-Email: tony.matchaba-hove@nmmu.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Title: THE SOUTH AFRICAN FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY: HOW TO USE MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS TO ENSURE EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION Abstract: The financial services industry plays a dominant role in promoting economic growth and providing employment. Financial services offered within this industry are highly sort after by the public, and the services offered require high levels of employee-client interaction. Given the importance of this particular industry and the high level of employee-client interaction required in the financial services industry, it is important for employees to be satisfied with their working environments. The motivational factors contributing towards employee satisfaction need to be determined. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to investigate the influence of selected motivational factors on employee satisfaction within the financial services industry. A questionnaire was used in an empirical investigation to gather the responses of 254 financial services employees in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. The questionnaires were subjected to various statistical analyses and significant relationships were found among the independent (management feedback, employee participation as well as job interest and importance) and dependent (employee satisfaction) variables. The implementation of this study?s recommendations may lead to improved employee satisfaction within the industry that could lead to increased levels of client satisfaction. In addition, the business performance of financial service providers may improve if they employ more satisfied employees. To conclude, proactive identification of the correct motivational factors may assist financial service providers to positively influence employee satisfaction levels. Length: 13 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 209-221 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=019&rid=5919 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405919 Classification-JEL: L89, J24 Keywords: financial services; motivational factors; employee satisfaction Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405919 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Robert Sa?ek Author-Name-First: Robert Author-Name-Last: Sa?ek Author-Email: robertsalek203@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management Author-Name: Joanna Nowakowska-Grunt Author-Name-First: Joanna Author-Name-Last: Nowakowska-Grunt Author-Email: jnowakowskagrunt@onet.eu Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management Author-Name: Anna Brzozowska Author-Name-First: Anna Author-Name-Last: Brzozowska Author-Email: annabrzozowskapcz@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management Author-Name: Judyta Kabus Author-Name-First: Judyta Author-Name-Last: Kabus Author-Email: judytakabus@interia.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management Author-Name: Anna Wi?niewska-Sa?ek Author-Name-First: Anna Author-Name-Last: Wi?niewska-Sa?ek Author-Email: anna.wisniewska.salek@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management Title: Management of tourist product Abstract: Promotion and operations conducted alongside it, aiming at giving a business or product class and prestige, have accompanied economy for ages. After transition from statist economic policy to free market policy, its influence has also become visible in Poland. It has given a whole new dimension to promoted products. On the other hand, proper functioning of tourism aided by various economic instruments is possible only when the essence of the issue of tourism as a social and economic phenomenon is correctly understood. If by this term we mean management of tourist traffic, benefits and sales of tourism goods aided by, i.e. promotion (the most important marketing tool), we will understand the economic benefits. This paper is an attempt to analyze the process of management of tourist product promotion. There have been presented tools used in promotion which includes brand and advertisement, among others. There has also been analyzed the essence of promotion in tourism. Length: 11 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 222-232 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=020&rid=6027 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406027 Classification-JEL: M31, Z00 Keywords: management, tourism, tourist product, promotion, marketing. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406027 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oksana Seroka-Stolka Author-Name-First: Oksana Author-Name-Last: Seroka-Stolka Author-Email: oksanaseroka@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Technical University of Czestochowa Author-Name: JUSTYNA LUKOMSKA-SZAREK Author-Name-First: JUSTYNA Author-Name-Last: LUKOMSKA-SZAREK Author-Email: jlszarek@zim.pcz.czest.pl Author-Workplace-Name: Technical University of Czestochowa Title: Public debt management in Poland compared to other countries of the European Union Abstract: The paper discusses the issues of public debt which is generated by huge expenditure demands in countries without relatively high incomes. The problems connected with allocation and the significance of public debt have often risen much controversy. The process of public debt management has become particularly important in recent years. Both Poland and other European countries started to search for a model which, on the one hand, would contribute to economic growth and development of the country and, on the other hand, would ensure stability and would not shake the foundations of the country. Based on legal regulations and available statistical data for the period of 2004-2014, the level of public debt in Poland and the EU countries was evaluated and analysed. The aim of the paper is to demonstrate public debt management as an important instrument of state policy. Analysis concerned the structure, level and costs of public debt service. The methods of public debt management in Poland were also characterized. Length: 10 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 233-242 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=021&rid=6103 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406103 Classification-JEL: G01 Keywords: management, public debt, public finance, budget deficit Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406103 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Thitima Sitthipongpanich Author-Name-First: Thitima Author-Name-Last: Sitthipongpanich Author-Email: thitima.sih@dpu.ac.th Author-Workplace-Name: Dhurakij Pundit University Title: The influence of the CEO and the largest shareholder on dividend payout policy in Thailand Abstract: In a setting of weak law enforcement and low investor protection, minority shareholders may find it difficult to extract cash from a company. This paper examines whether or not the CEO and the largest shareholder affect dividend decisions. Using a sample of Thai firms, I find that the CEO tenure and the ownership of the largest shareholder increase the likelihood of a dividend payout. As a result of high commitment and incentives, CEOs and the largest shareholder use dividend payments as a mechanism to mitigate free cash flow problems and reduce potential expropriation of minority shareholders. In addition, the possibility of a dividend payout decreases if firms are controlled by domestic financial institutions. Domestic financial institutions seem to play a significant role in monitoring management teams; consequently, the need for a dividend payment in alleviating agency costs is lower than other firms. Moreover, firms are more likely to pay dividends when they have higher profitability and a lower leverage ratio. Length: 10 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 243-252 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=022&rid=5493 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405493 Classification-JEL: G30, G35 Keywords: Dividend, CEO, large shareholder, agency costs, Thailand Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405493 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Yiyang Sun Author-Name-First: Yiyang Author-Name-Last: Sun Author-Email: yiyang.sun@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Manchester Author-Name: Foteini Kravariti Author-Name-First: Foteini Author-Name-Last: Kravariti Author-Email: foteini.kravariti@manchester.ac.uk Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Manchester Title: To What Extent the Adoption of Innovative Human Resource Practices Is Explained by Top Management Support in Chinese SMEs Abstract: This study focuses on innovative human resource practices (HRPs) in SMEs. It investigates whether top management support influences the decision to adopt HRPs and the degree of their implementation under the umbrella of management innovation. A quantitative data analysis is utilised in order to explore this topic among 185 SMEs in China by testing research hypotheses stemming from existing literature conclusions. The results demonstrate that there is a positive relationship between top management support and key innovative HRPs. Additionally, top management support significantly contributes to the adoption of extensive training and development followed by pay based on performance appraisal, job security and sophisticated selection. Given that all research hypotheses are statistically confirmed, we conclude that top management support can be an influential factor with regard to the adoption of innovative HRPs in SMEs. Hence, we suggest that the management innovation perspective as a theoretical underpinning is beneficial in determining motivational factors which shape the types of innovative HRPs adopted, and thus have a potential impact on organizational performance. Length: 12 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 253-264 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=023&rid=5845 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3405845 Classification-JEL: Keywords: HRM, innovative HRPs, management innovation, top management support, SMEs, Chinese SMEs Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3405845 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Dilber Ulas Author-Name-First: Dilber Author-Name-Last: Ulas Author-Email: ulas@politics.ankara.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Ankara University, Faculty of Political Sciences Author-Name: Arcan Tuzcu Author-Name-First: Arcan Author-Name-Last: Tuzcu Author-Email: Arcan.Tuzcu@politics.ankara.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Ankara University, Faculty of Political Science Author-Name: Esra Sat?c? Author-Name-First: Esra Author-Name-Last: Sat?c? Author-Email: esra.satici@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Republic of Turkey, General Directorate of Highways Title: Employee-Based Brand Equity: Why Ankara University, TÖMER Brand is So Strong? Abstract: Ankara University TÖMER (Ankara University Turkish and Foreign Languages Research and Application Center) has been established as ?Turkish Education Center? in 1984 for the purpose of performing service on the issue of teaching foreign students a large number of languages, primarily the Turkish language. As from the date TÖMER has started its activities until today, numerous public and private qualified establishments wishing to benefit from the value carried by the name TÖMER, sought for using this name. Ankara University, is the pioneer establishment which is the creator of the name TÖMER and which contributed that name in gaining dignity and value. In order to protect this name Ankara University, for the registration of TÖMER brand name made an application to Turkish Patent Institute on 25.05.2010, the form of ?Ankara University TÖMER 1984? has been registered on 19.07.2013 and the name TÖMER has been registered on 13.08.2013. With the completion of the registration process, the rights of usage of TÖMER brand name has been solely pertained to Ankara University. TÖMER has spreaded to countrywide with nine branches and one entity established abroad, continue their education and research activities. TÖMER gives Turkish courses in Ankara (K?z?lay and Yeni?ehir), Istanbul (Taksim and Kad?köy), ?zmir, Antalya, Adana, Bursa and Samsun branches. Also TOMER provides contribution to foreign language teaching field in Turkey. The employees skills and knowledge which provide the competitive advantage for an organisation. The aim of this study is to understand how TÖMER brand is interpreted from the employee?s ideas, feelings, emotions in relation to brand experience. In order to investigate employee based brand equity, focus group has been conducted. For this reason the strengths and weaknesses of TÖMER revealed through SWOT analysis in focus groups using six branch of TÖMER. We analyzed data by grouping respondents? answers, classified answers into categories and prepared a report. Thus, the tools enabling the elimination of the weaknesses for decision makers, and enabling the use of strengths more effectively as a competitive tool, could be developed. Length: 14 pages Creation-Date: 2016-04 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 3rd Business & Management Conference, Lisbon, Apr 2016, pages 265-278 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/3rd-business-management-conference-lisbon/table-of-content/detail?cid=34&iid=024&rid=6030 File-Function: First version, 2016 Number: 3406030 Classification-JEL: M31 Keywords: employee based brand equity, brand loyalty, brand identity, SWOT, focus group. Handle: RePEc:sek:ibmpro:3406030