Business Commons^™

Climate Action Now: How To Fuel A Social Movement, Lama Lteif, Gia Nardini, Tracy Rank-Christman, Lauren Block, Melissa G. Bublitz, Jesse R. Catlin, Samantha N. N. Cross, Anne Hamby, Laura A. Peracchio

Marketing Faculty Publications and Presentations

Our research develops a framework that explores how to fuel the climate movement by accelerating grassroots, community-based climate action. Drawing on insights from consumer psychology, our framework identifies the psychological mechanisms that encourage and motivate people, both individually and collectively, to take climate action, thereby contributing to our understanding of how to advance social action and propel a social movement. Our climate action framework builds on: (1) individuals we describe as climate upstanders who rise up to take climate action with like-minded others, and (2) communities of climate upstanders who engage in collective action aimed at addressing the climate crisis. …

Advanced Air Mobility, Economic Impacts, And Equity Considerations, Robert M. Mcnab

Economics Faculty Publications

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) may, in the coming decades, result in tens of thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in additional economic activity. While much of the discussion surrounding AAM focuses on the technical aspects of the nascent industry, estimates of the potential economic impact vary significantly. Much less attention has been paid in the literature to potential externalities, positive and negative, and how these externalities may impact estimates of economic impact. We argue that much work remains to be done before policy advisors and decisions makers can formulate and implement strategies based on the projections of future …

A Time Series Geometric Term Structure Model: Indications For U.S. Treasury Yield Curve Interpretation And U.S. Federal Funds Target Rate Forecasting, Danny L. White

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

This quantitative experiment executed an extensive study of the theoretical and exploratory development of a discrete step Federal Funds Target Rate (FFTR) forecast model expressed as the time series geometric average of an applied transform conversion of the U.S. Treasury Yield Curve (USTC). The novel approach, introduced as the Geometric Yield Curve (GYC) model, used USTC data taken directly from the U.S. Treasury Department website as its only input for term structure of interest rate modeling specific to the FFTR. A transform process, presented as term framing, introduced conversion of USTC embedded macroeconomic and macro-finance trend information into a daily …

Business Schools At A Crossroads: Navigating New Reality In American Higher Education, Anatoly Zhuplev, Jose Rincón

Librarian Publications & Presentations

This paper was accepted for presentation at the Applied Business and Entrepreneurship Association International (ABEAI) 20th annual conference (2024), in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii on November 16th - 19th. The paper explores the current higher education strategic landscape, identifies key trends and challenges, and offers insights into the future of B-education.

การเปรียบเทียบต้นทุนและผลกระทบต่อสิ่งแวดล้อมของการใช้รถบรรทุกไฟฟ้าและรถบรรทุกดีเซลขนาดใหญ่: กรณีศึกษาผู้ผลิตบรรจุภัณฑ์อลูมิเนียม, ศิริมา แสงชู

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

การวิจัยครั้งนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อวิเคราะห์และเปรียบเทียบต้นทุนรวมตลอดอายุการใช้งาน (Total Cost of Ownership: TCO) และผลกระทบต่อสิ่งแวดล้อมในรูปของการปล่อยก๊าซเรือนกระจก (GHG) ซึ่งวัดเป็นคาร์บอนฟุตพริ้นต์ (Carbon Footprint) ระหว่างรถบรรทุกไฟฟ้าแบบใช้แบตเตอรี่ (Battery Electric Vehicle: BEV) และรถบรรทุกดีเซล ภายใต้สภาพการใช้งานจริงในภาคโลจิสติกส์ของประเทศไทย โดยใช้ข้อมูลจากรถหัวลากขนาด 10 ล้อ 2 รุ่นที่มีสมรรถนะใกล้เคียงกัน ได้แก่ รถดีเซลทั่วไป และรถไฟฟ้ายี่ห้อ NEX ที่ติดตั้งแบตเตอรี่ลิเทียมไอออนขนาด 282.62 กิโลวัตต์ชั่วโมง กรอบการวิเคราะห์ TCO ครอบคลุม 4 องค์ประกอบหลัก ได้แก่ ต้นทุนเริ่มต้น ต้นทุนการดำเนินงาน ค่าบำรุงรักษา และมูลค่าคงเหลือเมื่อสิ้นอายุการใช้งาน โดยกำหนดช่วงเวลา 10 ปี อัตราคิดลดร้อยละ 8 ต่อปี และระยะทางเฉลี่ย 124,800 กิโลเมตรต่อปี สำหรับการวิเคราะห์สิ่งแวดล้อมใช้แนวทาง Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) ครอบคลุมช่วงการผลิต การใช้งาน และการกำจัด โดยอ้างอิงค่าปัจจัยการปล่อย (Emission Factor) สำหรับดีเซลที่ 2.68 กิโลกรัม CO₂/ลิตร และสำหรับไฟฟ้าที่ 0.404 กิโลกรัม CO₂/กิโลวัตต์ชั่วโมง ตามโครงสร้างการผลิตไฟฟ้าในประเทศไทย ผลการศึกษาแสดงให้เห็นว่า BEV มีต้นทุนรวม (TCO) ตลอด 10 ปีที่ 19.07 ล้านบาท ต่ำกว่ารถดีเซลที่ 19.83 ล้านบาท และปล่อยคาร์บอนตลอดอายุการใช้งานที่ 931.04 ตัน CO₂e ซึ่งต่ำกว่ารถดีเซลเล็กน้อยที่ 935.65 ตัน CO₂e คิดเป็นส่วนต่างเพียง 0.5% สาเหตุสำคัญมาจากค่าการปล่อยของระบบไฟฟ้าในประเทศไทยที่ยังอยู่ในระดับสูงเมื่อเทียบกับประเทศที่มีสัดส่วนพลังงานหมุนเวียนมากกว่า อย่างในงานของ MacLean & Lave (2003) และ O’Connell et …

Community Cultural Wealth And Its Impact On Pandemic Relief Funding For Small Businesses, Brett Smith

West Chester University Doctoral Projects

This dissertation investigates the impact of social, navigational, familial, aspirational, and resistant capital on the ability of small business owners in Pennsylvania to access relief funding during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily the period from March 2020 to December 2020. Utilizing Dr. Tara Yosso’s Community Cultural Wealth framework, the study explores systemic barriers within relief initiatives and how they affect marginalized communities.

To meet business owners where they were, and to utilize technologies born as a result of the pandemic, this study utilized Asynchronous Video Interviews (AVI) and online surveys, to capture the lived experiences of these small business owners. Not …

Gny Rary Tsihy Tsy Enganay (‘We’Re Not Leaving The Mat Weaving’): Transitions Of Craft Practice In Southeast Madagascar, Sarah Emily Brown

Textile Society of America: Symposium Proceedings

In Sainte Luce, southeast Madagascar, livelihoods are in a state of transition due to climate change, deforestation, shifting local economies and globalisation. Activities passed on by the ancestors are not sufficient to meet everyday needs. In 2012, embroidery was introduced by an NGO as an alternative to the ancestral process of reed-weaving due to declining reed populations. Embroiderers have now formed a 100-strong independent cooperative.

My PhD fieldwork (2017-2019) explored the multifaceted dimensions of change for these craftswomen. In addition to the practicalities of mastering a new craft, they have renegotiated collaborative working patterns, obligations to kin and ancestors, flows …

Hiring Practices In Black Nonprofit Organizations: Servant Leadership And The Employee Experience, Whitley Dozier

Doctor of Education Dissertations

This dissertation examined the impact of servant leadership within a Black nonprofit organization facing hiring challenges, particularly during organizational growth. The study explored how the leadership style of an executive leader influences employee experiences at a Black nonprofit organization. Using a mixed methods approach, quantitative and qualitative data were collected to assess employee perceptions of servant leadership and its effects on various aspects of their employment journey, including hiring, onboarding, professional learning, personal development, and opportunities for career advancement. By investigating these dynamics, the study sought to contribute to a deeper understanding of how servant leadership and robust human resource …

Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion In Talent Acquisition And Retention: A Mixed Methods Study Of Organizational Practices, Dawayne Mcintosh

Doctor of Education Dissertations

This study employed a convergent mixed methods approach to explore diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within Company A (pseudonym). It examined the effectiveness of DEI practices in recruitment and retention, leadership attitudes towards DEI, and overall commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The conducted survey involved a combination of a Likert scale survey and a few open-ended questions from a pool of participants across the organization. The quantitative data highlighted trends and patterns in DEI practices, while the qualitative data revealed nuanced insights into individual experiences and perceptions. The results provided insights into the DEI initiatives that are in place …

Strategies To Improve Employee Retention In Nonprofit Organizations, Robert A. Thornburg

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Talented employee turnover in nonprofit organizations has the potential for excessive costs and unfavorable outcomes. Nonprofit organization managers are concerned with retaining talented employees not only to sustain competitive advantage but also to continue to provide essential services. Grounded in person-organization fit theory, the purpose of this qualitative single case study was to explore strategies that four nonprofit organization managers in the southern United States use to increase employee retention. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and a review of organizational retention documents. Through Yin’s five-step data analysis process and thematic analysis, four themes were identified: (a) employ competitive benefits …

Navigating Global Landscapes: Exploring The Dynamics Of Cultural Intelligence In Business Organizations, Rong Min

Dissertations

This dissertation delves into the multifaceted factors influencing Cultural Intelligence (CQ) among U.S. managers, with a specific focus on openness to experience, emotional intelligence, international experience, and the role of age. Employing a quantitative research methodology, this study engages a diverse sample of managers across various industries in the United States to ascertain how these variables collectively contribute to or hinder the development of CQ within a global business context. Both openness to experience and emotional intelligence were significant predictors of higher CQ, underscoring their importance in facilitating effective leadership in multicultural settings. Although international experience also enhances CQ, its …

Coopetition Strategies: Adoption And Effectiveness In Retail Sector., Jonas Starford Chatsika

Business ETD Collections

This study investigates the adoption and effectiveness of coopetition strategies by retail SMEs in countering the perception that large e-commerce platforms threaten their survival. Using a qualitative research methodology and expert interviews, the findings reveal that retail SMEs predominantly adopt horizontal coopetition, such as sharing infrastructure, security services, and group buying. Few engage in platform-based coopetition with large e-commerce platforms. Organisational capability is a key factor influencing the adoption of these strategies, which prove effective in addressing the perceived threat. The study recommends that retail SMEs enhance their organisational capabilities and suggests large e-commerce platforms localise their approaches to better …

Analyzing The Impact Of Negative Publicity About Employee Turnover On Customer Loyalty: A Case Study Of Amazon., Nyambane Abedinego Nyambwengi

Business ETD Collections

This study examines the effect of negative publicity regarding employee turnover on customer loyalty, focusing on Amazon. Using in-depth interviews and surveys, the research highlights how social media platforms, particularly Facebook, and digital communication have facilitated the spread of negative information about Amazon's high employee turnover. While findings suggest that persistent negative media coverage could erode customer confidence over time, no statistical correlation between high turnover, negative publicity, and customer loyalty was established due to an insufficient sample size. The study recommends robust public relations strategies to protect corporate reputation and contributes to the understanding of how internal organisational issues …

The Impact Of Sustainability Initiatives On Corporate Culture: Bord Bia., Feride Baş

Business ETD Collections

This study focuses on the relationship between sustainability practices and culture in Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, with a clear objective of studying the effects of these practices on environmental, economic and social sustainability. Using literature review and expert interviews, the study determine what organizational cultural values and practices enable sustainable practices within the organization. In the case of Bord Bia, the paper suggests that most of the sustainability goals focused on the organization’s people and practices, especially those under the Origin Green programme, have been the catalyst towards reestablishing that corporates value long-term environmental and economic wellbeing. However, …

Bord Bia: Global Marketing Challenges., Guzel Khabibullina

Business ETD Collections

This research examines global marketing challenges faced by Bord Bia, an Irish agency in the food, drink, and horticulture sector, as it seeks to increase market share in the European Union (EU). The study combines primary and secondary research, utilising a case study approach to analyse Bord Bia’s branding, marketing strategies, and digital transformation efforts. Key areas of focus include leveraging sustainable production as a unique selling point, enhancing the Country of Origin (COO) effect, and addressing cultural diversity in marketing activities. Findings highlight the value of a blended marketing strategy, integrating traditional and digital methods, and recommend adopting AI-driven …

Farm-Raised Salmon Business: An International Outline Through Regulations, Environmental Issues, And Consumer Perception., Luiz Felipe Da Silva

Business ETD Collections

This research investigates the key challenges faced by the global farm-raised salmon industry, focusing on economic impacts of regulatory differences, environmental sustainability issues, and consumer perceptions of farm-raised versus wild-caught salmon. Using a mixed research approach, including an interview with a professional and a review of existing literature, the study finds a disconnect between salmon companies and their customers, indicating a need for improved marketing strategies. The research also highlights the importance of high environmental standards in production for enhancing competitiveness. Additionally, the adoption of certifications and high production standards can improve consumer acceptance of farmed salmon over wild-caught alternatives.

Evaluating Mcdonald’S Sustainability Practices: Real Commitment Or Greenwashing?, Lorena Elizabeth Alonso De León

Business ETD Collections

This study critically examines McDonald's sustainability claims and practices, focusing on its greenhouse gas emissions and beef consumption. Through secondary research, the study contrasts McDonald's sustainable initiatives with data from reputable sources and climate institutions. While McDonald's has set a net-zero emissions target for 2050, its position as one of the largest beef buyers, contributing 1-2% of global beef consumption, undermines these efforts. The company’s approach to achieving net-zero emissions is described as vague and unattainable without significant changes to its plant-based menu, agricultural practices, and consumer awareness. The findings highlight a gap between McDonald’s sustainability claims and its operational …

Investigating Factors Influencing Changing Consumer Patterns And The Impact On Sales Revenue In The Clothes Department At Marks & Spencer In Dublin, Ireland., Ruth Boyani Mogire

Business ETD Collections

Constantly changing consumer purchasing behaviours have greatly impacted the sales revenue collection in the clothing department at Marks and Spencer in Dublin. Among the concerns for M&S, is the failure to maintain a constant or predictable sales revenue amount annually due to erratic purchasing patterns among consumers. For organisations such as M&S that depend on growing its sales volumes to realise higher revenues could face challenges due to changing consumer purchasing patterns. As such, it is valid to investigate the factors that influence a changing purchasing pattern among consumers for M&S to increase its sales volumes within the clothes department. …

Investigating Negative Brand Perception And Toxicity In X (Formerly Twitter)., Nandin Batbold

Business ETD Collections

The rapid growth of social media has transformed brand-consumer communication and image management. Among these platforms, X (formerly Twitter) stands out for facilitating real-time interactions and fostering public discourse. While social media provides a powerful channel for engagement, its open and unmoderated nature exposes brands to risks such as negativity, trolling, and toxicity. Recent developments, particularly Elon Musk's 2022 acquisition of X and subsequent rebranding efforts, have heightened these challenges. These organisational changes, including renaming Twitter to X and altering its logo, have sparked mixed reactions from users and brands. This study explores how such drastic transformations impact user activity, …

Investigating The Environmental Impact Of Tesla’S Electric Vehicles Compared To Fossil Fuel Vehicles., Bayezid Han Kulak

Business ETD Collections

Emphasizing production techniques, emissions, and competitive strategies, this project examines the environmental effects of Tesla's electric vehicles (EVs) relative to conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) automobiles. Leading in the EV market as the automotive sector moves toward sustainable practices is Tesla. Still, evaluating the environmental advantages of Tesla cars calls for a thorough investigation going beyond zero tailpipe pollution. This paper looks at the high energy consumption and environmental effects related to the manufacturing of Tesla batteries including cobalt and lithium mining. Emphasizing less greenhouse gas emissions than ICE vehicles, it also assesses the total emissions of Tesla vehicles over …

Tesla-Addressing Eco Challenges Globally., Enkhzaya Enkhtuvshin

Business ETD Collections

This dissertation examines Tesla Inc.'s contributions to global environmental sustainability through its renewable energy solutions and managerial approach to regulations. Aligning with Tesla's mission as an electric car and energy solutions provider, the study employs secondary qualitative research and thematic analysis to explore the company’s role in sustainability, its market niche, and the regulatory challenges it faces. Key findings highlight differences in legal systems across major markets, the challenges Tesla encounters in meeting diverse environmental standards, and the significance of technology in advancing sustainability initiatives. The research underscores the critical role of multinational enterprises (MNEs) in achieving global sustainability goals …

Macy’S Store Closures: Primary Drivers, E-Commerce Impact, And Strategic Responses To Maintain Brand Loyalty., Joselyn M Maldonado Solis

Business ETD Collections

This research explores the economic and technological factors driving the retail giant Macy’s to close physical stores across the U.S. and how these factors also shape business strategies in the retail industry. With the exacerbated rise of e-commerce and economic factors like operational costs, Macy’s has had to reevaluate their approach to remain competitive in this new digital era.

Through the review of existing literature and the chosen methodology for this project that will rely on in-depth interviews with two experienced retail professionals, this project will dive into how retail chains manage the impact of rising expenses, the shift in …

Labor Practices And Their Impact On Employee Perception At Amazon Usa., Yelitza Manzano Jimenez

Business ETD Collections

This study examines Amazon employees' perceptions in the United States and their impact on engagement and organisational culture. Since its founding in 1994, Amazon has grown from an online book retailer to a global platform and one of the "Big Four" internet companies. Positive employee perceptions foster engagement through a supportive work environment, but challenges such as timely and transparent feedback persist. Recommendations include adopting an open-door policy aligned with the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model to enhance feedback processes and improve engagement, contributing to Amazon’s sustained success.

Recommended Strategies For Tesla Company In Encouraging People To Buy Electric Vehicles (Evs)., Kamran Rafiee

Business ETD Collections

This research explores Tesla's challenges in convincing consumers to transition from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to electric vehicles (EVs). It employs a mixed methodology, combining primary and secondary research, to evaluate Tesla's strategies in addressing these barriers. Key findings highlight that while Tesla leads in EV innovation, challenges remain in battery technology, charging infrastructure, affordability, and consumer perception. The study recommends further advancements in battery technology, adoption of innovative solutions like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems, expansion of charging networks, offering additional incentives, and developing cost-effective EV models to enhance affordability and market acceptance.

Global Marketing And Cross-Cultural Challenges In The Home Interiors Industry: Neptune Case Studies., Alida Tuane Silva Ciqueira

Business ETD Collections

This thesis examines the challenges of global marketing for Neptune, a British furniture company, with a focus on cultural differences, branding, and overcoming language and regulatory obstacles. Using a case study approach, the research explores how Neptune adapts its marketing strategies in various countries through partnerships. Through in-depth interviews with key leaders, field research, and document analysis, the study underscores the significance of cultural exchange and social dialogue in maintaining brand identity while supporting local cultures. It also highlights the crucial role of collaborating with local partners to overcome marketing challenges.

Changing Nutrition Trends And Mcdonald’S Product Strategies: The Rise Of Plant-Based Products And Their Impact On Consumer Behaviour., Meryem Yildirim

Business ETD Collections

This research explores the influence of McDonald’s plant-based product development strategies on consumer behaviour and brand perception. It highlights the challenges McDonald’s faces when launching plant-based products, particularly in the US, where the desired impact on consumers has not been achieved. The study contrasts this with the success of these products in Europe, where they have enhanced the brand’s sustainability image and contributed to profitability. Additionally, McDonald’s has made strides toward promoting healthy eating by offering plant-based and diet products, while also accommodating cultural and religious sensitivities in its menu localization. The findings emphasise the importance of continuing these strategic …

Navigating The Crooked Road: A Case-Study Into The Appalachian Regional Commission’S Strategy To Promote Economic Development Through Cultural Tourism, Nicholas Relich

Gaines Fellow Senior Theses

Since 1965, the federal government’s Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has sought to improve Appalachia’s wellbeing by funding state and local economic development projects. One recent ARC strategy is investing in projects to develop the region’s tourism sector as a means of growth, particularly “cultural tourism,” which markets Appalachia’s cultural heritage to potential visitors. This paper seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of such ARC investments based on economic theory and by performing an empirical and qualitative case-study of one such series of projects: The Crooked Road, a music heritage trail located in Southwest Virginia. Officially organized in 2004 and receiving substantial …

A Multi-Method Examination Of Donor Overhead Aversion: Implications For Marketing A Cause, Devin Lunt, Ryan E. Freling, Lucas D. Lunt

Atlantic Marketing Journal

Overhead aversion refers to a reluctance among donors to contribute to a charitable cause when a portion of that donation is allocated to non-cause-related costs. As a consequence, there is an impact on donor intentions and behaviors. A meta-analysis shows that characteristics of potential donors and the charitable cause moderate the impact of overhead level on donation intentions and behaviors. A follow-up experiment investigates two potential mechanisms underlying overhead aversion: perceived personal impact and perceived efficiency. Results of a survey experiment suggest the negative influence of overhead costs on donative behaviors is exacerbated when potential donors doubt their ability …

The Impact Of Csa 2010 Metrics On Profitability Of Motor Carriers, Ahren Johnston

Atlantic Marketing Journal

Comprehensive Safety Analysis (CSA) 2010 was launched in the third quarter of 2010 by the FMCSA despite the extreme trepidation of the motor carrier industry. The main focus of the new rules was to track seven metrics and make some of them publicly available to encourage carriers to hire safer drivers. This article examines the impact of CSA 2010 metrics on the profitability of motor carriers. In other words, is it more beneficial to adhere to all rules or break some of the rules and pay the fines when you are caught? The costs of poor CSA 2010 metrics could …

Why Students Select Their College Major: An Investigative Study, Kate N. Matthews, Diane R. Edmondson, Lucy Matthews

Atlantic Marketing Journal

With the decline in the number of traditional college-aged students, understanding the degree selection process is important for departments, colleges, and universities alike. For students, selecting the proper major early is also beneficial since it reduces time in school and tuition costs. Therefore, a better understanding of the degree selection process is worthwhile. Survey data was collected from 1,177 undergraduates at a southeastern U.S. university. Survey questions included major selection influences and other attitude and demographic items. The highest ranked reason is interest and passion followed by fit with personality type. This was similar for students who changed majors. External …