Keywords = customer satisfaction
Business Management

Modeling factors affecting customer orientation in the insurance industry

Volume 6, Issue 2, Summer 2026, Pages 294-315

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.576447.1713

Shervin Rooh Gandom, Ali Shahinpoor, Hoseyn Gharehbeygloo, Hoseyn Emari

Abstract Abstract The present study was conducted with the aim of modeling the factors affecting customer orientation in the insurance industry. This research is explanatory, exploratory, and developmental in nature. The participants consisted of 384 employees of agencies representing ten leading insurance companies in the northwest of the country in 2023, including Iran Insurance, Mellat, Asia, Parsian, Alborz, Dana, Saman, Karafarin, Moallem, and Razi Insurance Companies, selected through random cluster sampling based on the Morgan table. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire derived from the qualitative findings, and data analysis was carried out through descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling in SPSS23 and AMOS software at a significance level of 0.05. The findings showed that the research model had a good fit and that all factors, including the development of financial solvency (sig = 0.007), customer satisfaction (sig = 0.009), improvement of information and communication technology (sig = 0.011), brand development (sig = 0.003), development of insurtechs (sig = 0.001), development of content marketing (sig = 0.019), advanced customer relationship management (sig = 0.008), and organizational excellence (sig = 0.013), had a positive and significant effect on customer orientation in the insurance industry. Therefore, customer orientation in the insurance industry is influenced by various factors, including the development of financial solvency, customer satisfaction, improvement of information and communication technology, brand development, development of insurtechs, development of content marketing, advanced customer relationship management, and organizational excellence. Managers and officials of insurance agencies in the northwest of the country can enhance these factors in order to adopt a customer-oriented approach in their organizations. Introduction In today’s world, with technological advancement and easy access to information, few individuals remain unaware of the diversity of insurance products and services (Appelbaum & Albin, 2024). This variety of products and services, along with the large number of insurance companies, has created an increasingly competitive market among insurers (Zhang, 2019). Under such conditions, insurance companies, in order to increase profitability and gain a larger market share, need to utilize up-to-date technologies to attract and retain customers and to enhance policyholders’ satisfaction (Yu, 2024). Regardless of the specific product being promoted, marketing approaches in the insurance industry, as well as service delivery and responsiveness to customer requests, must be carried out in a mechanized manner within an integrated interactive platform. This approach helps meet customers’ need for a continuous and personalized relationship with the insurance company and ultimately increases customer satisfaction (Pan et al., 2023). A review of previous studies in the field of customer orientation in the insurance industry indicates several shortcomings. First, many existing studies have been conducted in a fragmented manner and without a comprehensive perspective on the various dimensions of customer orientation in this specific industry, often focusing mainly on general aspects of customer relationship management. However, due to the complex nature of insurance products, information asymmetry, and the high sensitivity of customer trust, the insurance industry requires a dedicated and industry-specific model. Second, recent technological developments, such as the emergence of insurtech and the changing expectations of customers in the digital era, have received limited attention in traditional customer orientation models. Third, the impact of industry-specific environmental and regulatory factors, such as insurance regulations and competition among insurance companies and emerging financial institutions, has not been sufficiently examined in previous models. These limitations highlight the necessity of comprehensively and contextually examining the factors influencing customer orientation while taking into account both the inherent characteristics of the insurance industry and recent transformations. The need for this research arises from the fact that, despite increasing competition, changing customer behavior, and the expansion of digital services, the insurance industry in Iran still faces significant challenges in accurately understanding and responding to customer needs. The main research problem is that, despite the vital importance of customer orientation for the survival and growth of insurance companies, the factors affecting its formation and reinforcement have not been coherently identified and modeled. Consequently, it remains unclear which variables influence customer orientation, through what mechanisms, and to what extent. Therefore, the present study seeks to answer the question: What are the factors affecting customer orientation in the insurance industry, and how do these factors influence customer orientation in this sector? Theoretical Framework Customer Orientation Customer orientation, as one of the behavioral elements of market orientation, refers to having a sufficient understanding of people in order to continuously create superior value for them. Employee planning is directed toward meeting needs and responding to requests in accordance with job conditions (Emami et al., 2025). Listening to the voice of customers and providing products and services that match their highest preferences, along with delivering the best possible services, are all part of this approach (Asadi et al., 2025). Customer orientation establishes the necessary evaluations through resource allocation priorities in order to assess superior value and customer satisfaction. Insurance In 1947, the first health insurance program was introduced for employees of the Iranian Tobacco Company. By 1948, several government organizations were covered by health insurance through different mechanisms. In the same year, an organization called the Government Employees Insurance Organization was established to provide coverage for government employees and to pay their medical expenses up to a specified limit. In 1973, the Health Insurance Organization was established, and in 1977 the Health Insurance Organization and the Social Security Organization were merged into the Ministry of Health. After the victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, the Social Security Organization was separated again from the Ministry of Health and continued its activities independently. The Medical Services Organization continued its activities under the title of the Department of Insurance, Revenue, and Medical Records within healthcare organizations until October 1995, when, through the efforts of policymakers and legislators and with the approval and implementation of universal insurance, a new phase of hope emerged for all members of society. With the continuous efforts of the officials of the Health Insurance Organization, the outcomes of this initiative became visible and tangible. However, it remains necessary for this humanitarian initiative to continue while addressing the existing challenges and obstacles within the administrative system and identifying appropriate, principled, scientific, and legal pathways for making effective progress toward societal development (Hadavand et al., 2020). Kaur and Singh (2025), in their study titled “Examining the Impact of Insurance Technology Adoption in the Indian Life Insurance Industry: A Customer Satisfaction Perspective”, concluded that customer orientation is a key factor in ensuring the survival of an organization or institution. Retaining existing customers and attracting new ones is therefore essential for all organizations, particularly insurance companies. Kim and Yi (2025) conducted research titled “Customer Orientation and Sales Orientations of Insurance Planners, Seller Influence Tactics, Relationship Quality, and Their Impact on Sales Performance”. Their findings emphasized the role of relationship quality and effective interaction with insurance customers in enhancing customer orientation and ultimately improving sales performance. Research Methodology This study is explanatory, exploratory, and developmental in nature. The statistical population consisted of representatives of the ten leading insurance companies in the northwest region of Iran in 2023, including Iran Insurance, Mellat Insurance, Asia Insurance, Parsian Insurance, Alborz Insurance, Dana Insurance, Saman Insurance, Karafarin Insurance, Moallem Insurance, and Razi Insurance. Considering that the number of representatives in the northwest region exceeded 10,000, the Morgan table was utilized to determine the sample size, and 384 individuals were selected as the statistical sample. The sampling method was cluster random sampling. For data collection, since this study was derived from a doctoral dissertation conducted by a mixed-methods approach, a structured questionnaire based on the qualitative findings of the dissertation was utilized. The questionnaires were completed online. Regarding data analysis, descriptive statistics were used to describe, collect, and classify the information obtained from the sample. In addition, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to test and fit the research model. In this study, SEM analysis was conducted through AMOS software, while descriptive statistical analyses were performed by SPSS version 23 at a significance level of 0.05. Research Findings The results related to the gender of the respondents indicated that 39% of the sample were women and 61% were men. Regarding age distribution, 6% of the respondents were in the “30 years and below” age group, 54% were in the “31–40 years” age group, 35% were in the “41–50 years” age group, and 5% were in the “above 50 years” age group. The educational background of the respondents showed that 5% had a diploma or less than a diploma, 30% held an associate degree, 51% had a bachelor’s degree, and 14% held a master’s degree. The inferential results also indicated that the research model had an acceptable fit. All examined factors had a positive and significant effect on customer orientation in the insurance industry. These factors included financial solvency development (sig = 0.007), customer satisfaction (sig = 0.009), improvement of information and communication technology (sig = 0.011), brand development (sig = 0.003), development of insurtech (sig = 0.001), development of content marketing (sig = 0.019), advanced customer relationship management (sig = 0.008), and organizational excellence (sig = 0.013). Conclusion The present study aimed to model the factors influencing customer orientation in the Iranian insurance industry. The key findings indicate that the proposed conceptual model demonstrates a satisfactory statistical fit and that all independent variables have a positive and significant effect on customer orientation. Based on the magnitude of their effects, these factors are prioritized as follows: advanced customer relationship management, development of insurtech, development of content marketing, brand development, improvement of information and communication technology, organizational excellence, customer satisfaction, and finally, development of financial solvency. The findings of this study show substantial alignment with prior research in the field of customer orientation. For instance, the emphasis on advanced customer relationship management as the most influential factor is consistent with the results of studies such as Shadpour et al. (2024), which demonstrated that CRM directly affects customer orientation and customer experience through service personalization. Overall, this research reveals that achieving customer orientation in the Iranian insurance industry requires a multidimensional approach, with the optimization of customer relationship management positioned at its core. Accordingly, based on the research results, the following recommendations are proposed: insurance companies should make substantial investments in modern CRM platforms, customer data analytics, and employee training to ensure effective use of these tools. In addition, establishing or collaborating with insurtech startups is essential for delivering innovative services, simplifying processes, and enhancing user experience. Furthermore, producing educational, informative, and value-creating content tailored to the needs and concerns of insurance customers can contribute significantly to attracting and retaining them.

Business Management

The impact of reducing customer confusion in choosing domestic automaker brands, based on brand quality and brand experience

Volume 6, Issue 1, Spring 2026, Pages 109-127

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.568692.1696

Peyman Fathiaghdam, Faranak Khodayari, Hamid Saeedi, Leila Andervazh

Abstract Abstract
This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of reducing customer confusion in choosing domestic automobile manufacturers' brands, based on brand quality and brand experience. The research method is applicable in terms of its purpose, quantitative in terms of implementation method, and descriptive-correlational in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of the study consisted of sales and marketing managers of domestic automobile manufacturers such as Iran Khodro and Saipa Zamyad in Tehran. Due to the lack of accurate statistics on the number of incoming tourists, the Cochran formula was used for an unlimited population to determine the sample size, estimated at 384 people. A standard questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale was used to collect research data. The content validity of the tool was confirmed by specialists and experts, and Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability methods were used to measure the reliability of the tool. By distributing the questionnaire, the validity of the instrument was measured with three methods: construct validity (external model), convergent validity (AVE), and divergent validity. The AVE value for all variables should be greater than 0.5. SPSS and PLS software were used to analyze the data. The research findings show that brand quality, brand experience, customer satisfaction, and addressing this confusion and providing solutions to reduce it can help improve the shopping experience of domestic automobile manufacturers' customers and increase their satisfaction.
Introduction
Today, the automotive industry is one of the key and vital industries in every country. With the rapid growth of technology and continuous changes in customer needs and demands, domestic automobile brands are facing serious challenges in attracting and retaining customers. Customer confusion, as a psychological phenomenon, can have a negative impact on customer purchase decisions. Customer confusion in choosing domestic car brands is a serious problem that can have a negative impact on purchasing decisions. By identifying the dimensions and components of this confusion and applying appropriate solutions, such as training and information, improving the user experience, providing quality after-sales services, and using modern technologies, the current situation can be improved. Ultimately, these measures can lead to increased customer satisfaction and strengthening their loyalty to domestic brands. (Karadayi-Usta, 2025).
Customer confusion is one of the important challenges in today's competitive markets (zeinalitajani et al., 2025). This concept refers to a situation where the customer, when faced with multiple options and extensive information, is unable to correctly interpret the features and benefits of products and his decision-making is delayed or erroneous. Confusion can be caused by a wide variety of brands, similarity of features, contradictory advertising messages and information overload, and ultimately negatively affect customer satisfaction, trust and loyalty. Reducing this confusion helps customers make faster and more confident decisions and increases the value of the shopping experience (baniasadi et al., 2025).
In the automotive industry, due to the complexity of technical features, the wide variety of models and extensive competitive information; the likelihood of customers encountering information overload or similarity between brands increases. In addition to increasing decision-making stress, this situation can undermine customer trust and reduce the perceived value of the brand, which ultimately has a negative impact on the final choice.
Brand quality is one of the determining factors in choosing a car. Brand quality is defined as one of the key factors in consumer decision-making, beyond the characteristics of the product or service; and includes the customer's perception of performance, durability, service, and brand reputation. Brand quality plays an important role in building trust, increasing satisfaction, and reducing decision conflict, and can reduce the effect of confusion (fereydouni et al., 2024). Research has shown that brands with high perceived quality encourage customers to make more confident choices and have a more positive experience, and in the long run, increase brand loyalty and equity (doroudi et al., 2024).
Customer confusion not only leads to delay in decision-making, but can also affect customer loyalty to the brand; therefore, reducing this confusion by increasing brand quality and enhancing brand experience can lead to more confident and satisfying customer choices. Hence, the researcher's concern led to the question: what is the effect of reducing customer confusion in choosing domestic automaker brands based on brand quality and brand experience?
Theoretical foundations
Customer experience
Customer experience, as a key concept in marketing and customer management, was first introduced as a set of customer perceptions and emotional, cognitive and behavioral reactions in interaction with the brand. Research shows that customer experience goes beyond mere satisfaction and includes all touchpoints or points of contact of the customer with the business (Kronheim et al., 2024). Every interaction, whether viewing a product, browsing a website, the purchase process, after-sales service or contacting support, can create a positive or negative experience for the customer that has a direct impact on his future purchasing behavior and loyalty (Gahler et al., 2023).
Brand quality
Brand quality, as one of the most important elements in brand management and consumer behavior, is a concept that has been considered in the marketing and strategic management literature for decades (Sugianto et al., 2022). This concept goes beyond the technical quality of a product or service and refers to the consumer's perception of the value, credibility, and effectiveness of the brand. In other words, brand quality not only includes tangible product features, such as durability, performance, and reliability, but also intangible dimensions such as brand credibility, customer loyalty, and overall brand experience (Ismail, 2025).
Baniasadi et al. (2025) investigated "The Mediating Effect of Customer Experience Variable on Reducing Customer Confusion in Corporate Banking: A Mixed Research Approach". After extracting the required data, the researchers presented their paradigm model in the form of 6 main dimensions and 27 sub-dimensions by analyzing the data and using open, axial, and selective coding. The goal of corporate banking is for a company to be able to receive all financial services in a fast and effective way, so that instead of providing limited services to a large number of customers, which leads to increased bank costs and prevents customization of the services provided, it can provide extensive and special services to its highly valued customers to reduce operating costs and increase the bank's long-term productivity. The result showed that consumer confusion has an impact on customer experience.
Ghasemi Naji (2024) studied "Customer experience, customer relationship management and service quality with the mediating role of customer satisfaction on customer profitability and loyalty". The results showed that 6 hypotheses were confirmed at a 95% confidence level, and 2 hypotheses were not confirmed. Customer experience with the mediating role of customer satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty of Kowsar Insurance in Gilan Province. Customer relationship management with the mediating role of customer satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty of Kowsar Insurance in Gilan Province.
Research Method
The present study is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Library and field methods were used to collect data. The statistical population of the study was formed by sales and marketing managers of domestic automobile manufacturers such as Iran Khodro and Saipa Zamyad in Tehran. Due to the lack of accurate statistics on the number of incoming tourists, the Cochran formula was used for an unlimited population to determine the sample size, and the sample size was estimated at 384 people. The sampling method was simple random sampling. A questionnaire was used to collect field data. The reliability of the questionnaire was measured by calculating Cronbach's alpha and calculating the composite reliability coefficient (cr). The value of Cronbach's alpha and the composite reliability coefficient for each variable are between zero and one, and if the value obtained is higher than 0.7, the questionnaire has appropriate reliability. The results of the Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability of the questionnaire confirm the appropriate reliability of the questionnaire used.
Research findings
The research findings showed that improving the quality of brand information, promoting brand quality, and creating a positive brand experience play a significant role in reducing customer confusion in the selection process. The results of path analysis indicate that reducing customer confusion directly increases their satisfaction, and this satisfaction in turn leads to strengthening positive word-of-mouth. Brand quality also has a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction and can improve their perception of the brand. In summary, integrated management of brand information and quality, along with a focus on brand experience, pave the way for more informed customer decision-making and desirable behavioral outcomes for the brand.
Discussion and Conclusion
The results of the study showed that brand information has a positive and significant effect on reducing customer confusion. The positive path coefficient and the value of the T-statistic indicate a direct and significant effect of this variable. This finding is consistent with previous research; for example, Baniasadi et al. (2025) have stated that providing clear and accurate information to customers plays an effective role in reducing confusion and improving decision-making. Also, Ghasemi Naji (2024) showed that comprehensive and reliable information increases the customer's ability to process options and make informed choices. Based on these results, it can be said that improving the quality and transparency of brand information is an effective tool for managing customer confusion.
Brand quality also had a positive and significant effect on reducing customer confusion. The results showed that customers evaluated brands with high perceived quality more easily and made decisions faster. This finding is consistent with the studies of Ismail (2025) and Prabowo et al. (2023) that brand quality increases trust, reduces ambiguity, and reduces customer decision conflict. In general, brands that provide consistent messages and reliable quality have the ability to reduce customer confusion, which directly affects their informed choice and final satisfaction.
Brand experience or customer experience also plays an important role in reducing confusion. The results showed that a positive customer experience simplifies the information processing process and makes customer choices clearer. This finding is consistent with the studies of Kronheim et al. (2024) and Roustaee Gholpaygani et al. (2023) who state that brand experience includes emotional, cognitive and behavioral interactions of the customer and that a positive experience reduces conflict and confusion in decision-making. Therefore, designing an optimal brand experience is the key to reducing confusion and increasing customer satisfaction.
The results of the study showed that customer satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on reducing confusion. Satisfied customers, with greater trust in the brand and its information, are less confused and have more confident decision-making. This result is consistent with the research of Khanzadeh (2024) and Behera et al. (2024) that customer satisfaction, as a mediating factor, facilitates the shopping experience and information processing and strengthens customer loyalty behavior. Therefore, improving customer satisfaction is one of the most important strategies for reducing confusion and increasing the effectiveness of brand strategies.

Business Management

Investigating the influential and susceptible factors of the policy-making model for creating added value in after-sales services in the Iranian automotive industry

Volume 5, Issue 4, Winter 2026, Pages 162-183

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.418300.1208

Hasan Amouzadeh, Abdullah Naami, Alireza Rousta

Abstract Abstract The aim of the present study is to investigate the influential and affective factors of the identified dimensions of the policy model for creating added value in after-sales services in the Iranian automotive industry. The research method is applicable-developmental in terms of its purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation method. The statistical population of the study includes 10 managers and experts of sales and after-sales service agencies, whose sampling was done using a purposive sampling method with the criterion of at least 10 years of experience in sales and after-sales service agencies. The data collection tool is a semi-structured interview, and the interviews continued until the theoretical saturation stage. The DEMATEL technique was used to examine the influential and affective factors of the model. The results showed that the organizational dimension is the most important; the technical services dimension is in second place, and the physical dimension is in third place of importance. Also, the technical services dimension is the most influential; the organizational dimension is in second place of influence, and the physical dimension is in third place of influence. Introduction After-sales service is one of the necessities of today's organizations for survival, growth and profitability, and in fact, it is a response to the biggest problems of organizations. With increasing complexity and uncertainty and the speed of technological changes, the survival of organizations depends on successful after-sales service (Susilo & Ikhsan, 2020). Over the past decade, global trade has changed at an unprecedented pace and free markets are expanding around the world. Considering the above, in many organizations and industries, especially highly competitive industries such as the automotive industry, the success of product sales is closely related to the provision of after-sales service, so that today, leading companies in the automotive field seek their expected profit in the supply of parts and the provision of after-sales service (Mollahoseini & Alimirzaei, 2009). After-sales service creates a limited but continuous and reliable stream of revenue over a long period of time. When businesses provide after-sales service, they gain a deep understanding of customers' designs, processes and technologies; knowledge that competitors cannot easily obtain. This creates an incredible but sustainable competitive advantage for companies. Considering these issues, it is not surprising that companies find it difficult to compete in the after-sales service market (Nasir et al, 2024). On the other hand, in today's world, the added value in product production has decreased and the added value has moved from the product production processes to research and development and marketing in which, in addition to developing new products, the provision of services related to products has become of great importance (Moradi et al, 2019). Therefore, the main question of this research is: What are the influential and affected factors of the identified dimensions of the policy model for creating added value in after-sales services in the Iranian automotive industry? Theoretical framework Customer loyalty Loyal customers are people whose desire to purchase a product or service is accompanied by creating a psychological bond and having favorable attitudes towards them or the providing organization (Khan & Fatma, 2019). Customer satisfaction Customer satisfaction refers to a summarized psychological state that results from the combination of emotional expectations before purchasing the product and the customer's subsequent feelings about the consumption experience, and is often considered an important determinant of the customer's purchase intention and loyalty to that product and service (Jin et al, 2019). Service quality The concept of service quality is the basis of market access quality and is considered one of the most important decisions made by marketers. These decisions include determining the quality of the services to be provided, and a high level of market quality goes beyond customer expectations (Singh et al, 2023). Value Added Value added tax is a type of consumption tax levied on the incremental cost of goods and services during the production or supply period (Ibadin & Oladipupo, 2015). Ezazi & Hoshyar (2024) investigated the effect of service quality on senior loyalty through memorable experience and satisfaction among senior customers of 5-star hotels in Mashhad. The findings show that the electronic customer relationship management variable had a positive and significant effect on product innovation development, and the product innovation development variable had a positive and significant effect on marketing performance. Also, customer knowledge showed a positive and significant effect on marketing performance and product innovation development, and electronic customer relationship management and customer knowledge had a positive and significant effect on marketing performance through product innovation development. Sun et al, (2022) investigated the optimization of after-sales service with spare parts consumption and repairman travel. The results showed that the dual concerns of service quality and spare parts consumption lead to an inverse effect on spare parts prices: the service provider reduces spare parts consumption even if the sale of spare parts becomes more profitable. In addition, they showed that the travel time of the repairer has different effects on the optimal service time with respect to the maximum residence time constraint. In particular, by increasing the travel time of the repairer, the service provider increases the repair time to maintain the repair quality at a high level if the residence time is not guaranteed. However, if the maximum residence time is guaranteed, the service provider reduces the repair time to fulfill its promise. Research Methodology The research method is applicable-developmental in terms of its purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation method. The statistical population of the study includes 10 managers and experts of sales and after-sales service agencies, whose sampling was done using a purposive sampling method with the criterion of at least 10 years of experience in sales and after-sales service agencies. The data collection tool is a semi-structured interview, and the interviews continued until the theoretical saturation stage. Research Findings The DEMATEL technique was used to examine the influential and affective factors of the model. The results showed that the organizational dimension is the most important; the technical services dimension is in second place, and the physical dimension is in third place of importance. Also, the technical services dimension is the most influential; the organizational dimension is in second place of influence, and the physical dimension is in third place of influence. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the influential and affected factors of the identified dimensions of the policy model to create added value in after-sales services in the Iranian automotive industry. The results of this study are consistent with the results of Ezazi & Hoshyar (2024), Sun et al, (2022), Behrozi (2022), Vigneshwaran (2021), Habib & Sarwar (2021), Balinado et al, (2021), Ghayumi & Kashtegar (2020), Adusei & Tweneboah (2019), Saidin et al, (2018), and Borchardt (2018). Balinado et al, (2021) showed that among the five dimensions of Servqual, reliability and empathy are significantly related to customer satisfaction in automotive after-sales services. Interestingly, it was found that tangibles, responsiveness and assurance have no significant relationship with satisfaction. The service provider must provide high quality services to meet customer expectations and increase customer satisfaction, which subsequently creates customer trust in the company. With these items, customer retention and loyalty can be achieved by the company, which can also increase the company's profit and competitive advantage. According to the results of the study, the following suggestions are made: -Determining the mechanism and new software tools and applications with priority on the agenda of the Automotive Industry Policy Council (as the policymaker of the country's automotive industry) so that supplier companies are required to correct the incorrect method of existing after-sales services within a specific time period, with proper planning, and improve the index using the aforementioned feedback. -Management of automobile companies should review defects observed in the first quarter of vehicle ownership (IQS) and place defects related to parts, assembly or production on the agenda of the quality control unit so that those defects can be resolved and minimized within a specific time frame.

Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Identifying the primary elements and components affecting electronic customer relationship management

Volume 5, Issue 2, Summer 2025, Pages 70-94

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.456992.1379

Mehdi Asadi, Mohammad Mahmoudi Maymand, Mehdi Zakipour

Abstract Abstract
The purpose of this research is to identify the primary elements and components effective on electronic customer relationship management. According to its purpose, the research method is applicable; and in terms of nature, it is descriptive; and its implementation method is Delphi technique. The statistical population of the research includes 35 lecturers, professors, and faculty members of the Faculty of Management, as well as senior experts and managers of private banks; and the interviews continued until reaching theoretical saturation. Delphi panel members were selected through purposeful sampling. A semi-structured interview was used to collect information. The Delphi method was used to analyze the data and to reach a consensus on the components obtained from previous research and articles published on scientific sites in the field of electronic customer relationship management. The results showed that variables related to causal factors including human factors, technology factors, support factors; and background factors including cultural factors and industry factors; organizational factors including organization design factors and customer factors were identified and categorized as effective variables on electronic customer relationship management. Also, satisfaction and loyalty were recognized as consequences of using electronic customer relationship management.
Introduction
Fierce competition, globalization, increasing customer demand, and exposure to higher credit risks have forced banks to provide the best possible services in a fast and efficient manner to retain their customer base and turn them into loyal patrons (Mang'unyi et al, 2018) and try harder to improve their profitability (Joju et al, 2017). At the same time, product homogeneity has also added to the burden of the banking industry and has proven to be a challenge for banks to maintain customer loyalty during such a significant change in technological behavior as well as in consumer behavior (Singh & Chauhan, 2022). Also, the changes caused by the rapid transformation in technology and adaptation by customers, followed by the greater penetration of the Internet and the increase in the use of smart phones, have put banks under serious challenges in countless ways (Mathew et al, 2020). As the traditional banking model declines, the traditional approach to electronic customer relationship management may not be compatible with the new banking model. Electronic customer relationship management is a reactive approach that lacks transparency, so it needs improvement. The emergence of electronic customer relationship management is one of these phenomena. Electronic customer relationship management, as a preventive approach, is the only solution to the current situation in which banks can operate (Singh & Chauhan, 2022). Electronic customer relationship management enables customers to interact with their banks remotely through Internet communication platforms and devices. Electronic customer relationship management increases profitability through customer retention, cost reduction, and valuable engagement (Abu-Shanab & Anagreh, 2015). Stating that customer retention is the main driver of a company's profit growth, a 5% increase in retention leads to an increase in profit in the range of 50% to 100% (Bezhovski & Hussain, 2016).
In this regard, the main question of the research is: What are the primary elements and components that affect the management of communication with electronic customers?
Theoretical framework
Electronic customer relationship management
Electronic customer relationship management involves thorough investigation and practice of knowledge among customers to sell products and services (Ling & Yen, 2001; Hong Kit Yim et al, 2004). Given that in today's competitive environment, companies pay more attention to meeting customer needs through digital platforms, many different companies are implementing electronic customer relationship management systems with the aim of meeting growing customer service expectations (Azila & Noor Neeraj, 2011).
Electronic customer relationship management and customer satisfaction
When customers are satisfied with the services provided by their service providers, this relationship becomes stronger, which further leads to positive word-of-mouth advertising (Adnan et al, 2021, Mulyono & Situmorang, 2020). Electronic customer relationship management services help customers interact with their bank, which increases their satisfaction level and thus leads to the creation of a loyal customer base (Mulyono & Situmorang, 2020).
Customer relationship management and loyalty
Organizations that seek to implement customer relationship management to gain customer loyalty in their organization should consider the benefits of having loyal customers to get a more tangible picture of the customer. Loyal customers can lead to increased revenue for the company by spending more money than non-loyal customers. In addition, loyalty leads to less customer turnover to other competitors; it also creates positive word of mouth advertising and a plays supportive role in the decision making of others (Al-Shoura et al, 2017).
Customer satisfaction and loyalty
Customer satisfaction is considered as one of the key factors that lead to customer loyalty (Kaur Mokha, 2022). In fact, when customers are satisfied with the services provided by banks, they are willing to recommend it to others (Mulyono & Situmorang, 2018). Customer satisfaction leads to customer retention, customer loyalty, high revenue, and high profits. Long-term customer loyalty is useful for creating a familiar environment for customers who have few problems and objections about commercial products (Al-Shoura et al, 2017).
Singh & Anuradha (2022) investigated the operation of electronic management of customer relations and customer satisfaction in the insurance sector. The results of their findings showed that among the thirteen identified components; five factors: brand popularity to create attractiveness for customers, innovative product offering, quick and honest response, relationship building, and financial security are the most effective factors affecting customer satisfaction. They have the greatest effect on buying an insurance policy and increasing satisfaction.
Kumar & Kaur Mokha (2022) investigated the interactions between electronic customer communication management and customer experience, satisfaction and loyalty. The results of the findings showed that all relationships were meaningful and positive, and also customer experience and customer satisfaction are mediators in the relationship between E-CRM and customer loyalty. They claimed that the empirical results of their research had both theoretical and managerial implications that provided useful insights for bank managers to improve their long-term relationships with customers.
 
Research methodology
According to its purpose, the research method is applicable; and in terms of nature, it is descriptive; and its implementation method is Delphi technique. The statistical population of the research includes 35 lecturers, professors, and faculty members of the Faculty of Management, as well as senior experts and managers of private banks; and the interviews continued until reaching theoretical saturation. Delphi panel members were selected through purposeful sampling. A semi-structured interview was used to collect information.
Research findings
The Delphi method was used to analyze the data and to reach a consensus on the components obtained from previous research and articles published on scientific sites in the field of electronic customer relationship management. The results showed that variables related to causal factors including human factors, technology factors, support factors; and background factors including cultural factors and industry factors; organizational factors including organization design factors and customer factors were identified and categorized as effective variables on electronic customer relationship management. Also, satisfaction and loyalty were recognized as consequences of using electronic customer relationship management.
Conclusion
The current research was conducted with the aim of identifying the primary elements and components effective on electronic customer relationship management. The results of this research are in agreement with the researches of Ahmadi et al, (2024), Gholipour domyeh (2023), Singh & Anuradha (2022), Kaur Mokha (2022), Kumar & Kaur Mokha (2022), Kumar et al, (2021), Naim & Faiz Khan (2021), Rao & Reddy (2021), Ebrahimi & Yegangi (2021), and Baskabadi & Tosli (2021). Kumar & Kaur Mokha (2022) in their research considered customer experience and customer satisfaction as prerequisite tools for improving and strengthening long-term relationships with customers and showed that all relationships are meaningful and positive, as well as customer experience and customer satisfaction are mediators in the relationship between E-CRM and customer loyalty. They claimed that the empirical results of their research had both theoretical and managerial implications that provided useful insight for bank managers to improve their long-term relationships with customers.
According to the results obtained from the research, the following suggestions are presented:

Aggregation and software integration of technologically integrated interactive channels for customer relationship management;
Determining the training system for customers and managing the analysis of customer needs based on interaction through social media in electronic customer relationship management;

Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Identifying and investigating the effectiveness of supply chain risk indicators of online business activities in the food industry using machine learning methods using the unit support vector algorithm

Volume 5, Issue 2, Summer 2025, Pages 318-338

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.512179.1525

Taha Momeni roochi, Amir Mohammadzadeh, Alireza Irajpour, Roozbeh Balounejad Nouri

Abstract Abstract The aim of the present study is to identify and investigate the effectiveness of supply chain risk indicators of online business activities in the food industry through machine learning method using single support vector algorithm. The research method is applicable in terms of its purpose, and mixed (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of implementation method. In the qualitative part, interviews with experts active in the food industry with complete information and sufficient experience in the supply chain of this industry have been used until theoretical saturation, which were 10 people of relevant experts in large companies in this field. In the quantitative part, the field method and questionnaire were used to collect data with statistical methods, and this number was also 114 people selected as a sample from the statistical population. Considering the data conditions and the application of machine learning in the supply chain, the support vector machine algorithm, one of the most powerful algorithms in the field of artificial intelligence, was used. The results showed that customer satisfaction has a negative effect in the research model. Supply chain coordination has a positive effect in the research model. Factors affecting costs have a positive effect, but its amount is moderate. Economic and market conditions have a positive effect in the model. Internet infrastructure has limited importance in the model. Environmental risks have a positive effect. Product quality has a negative effect in the model. Introduction Today, risk management is one of the effective factors in every industry and business activity in economic enterprises around the world. Therefore, for this purpose, it is first necessary to identify the relevant risks (Rajendran & Ravindran, 2019). Companies are always looking for ways to deal with work uncertainties. In this regard, risk management has been introduced as an efficient tool for organizational managers. Risk identification and management is a new approach used to strengthen and improve the effectiveness of organizations (Ghaderi & Tariverdi, 2020). Risk management is a logical and systematic method for analyzing, assessing, and dealing with risk related to any type of activity that enables organizations to minimize losses while taking advantage of opportunities. (Rahnamaye Rudposhti & Soleimani, 2021). Increasing costs and complexities in organizations, along with increasing uncertainty and risk, have led managers to use risk management to reduce risk-taking and deviation from goals (Jalali & Moghadamnia, 2022). Identifying supply chain risks based on minimizing and managing these risks has always been an important challenge for industries and organizations. Supply chain risks increase the likelihood of unexpected events occurring in this chain that may cause significant losses to the organization (Mehrmanesh & Safavi Mirmahalleh, 2020). In this article, we decided to identify these factors in order to determine these risks in general and specifically in our country's market and in the food industry. On the other hand, by analyzing data in artificial intelligence methods such as machine learning, human error can be significantly reduced. Accordingly, the present study seeks to answer the question: What is the effectiveness of supply chain risk indicators in online business activities in the food industry through machine learning methods using the unit support vector algorithm? Theoretical framework Supply chain A supply chain is defined as a set of functional activities (transportation, inventory control, etc.) that are repeated many times along the flow channel and by which raw materials are converted into final products and value and reach the consumer. Since globalization has opened new markets and intensified competition, organizations have been able to reduce production costs by developing more complex supply chains to compete in the global market (Kamalahmad & Mrllat-Parast, 2016). Risk Management In the conventional sense, risk management means compensating for known risks by managing them. In the past, risk or danger was seen as a result of natural causes that could not be predicted. However, in a modern, managed thinking based on current science in the field of risk management, a view has been presented that risk can be measured and controlled provided that there are effective and efficient systems (Sepahvand & Vaghfi, 2021). Ahmadi et al., (2023) studied the design of a distribution channel selection system in the oil industry supply chain using a combination of adaptive neural-fuzzy network and metaheuristic algorithms (case study: National Petroleum Distribution Company of the West Azerbaijan Dual Regions). In order to analyze the data, confirmatory factor analysis, adaptive neural-fuzzy network in the basic mode, and adaptive neural-fuzzy network combined with genetic and particle swarm optimization algorithms were used. In this study, a hybrid distribution channel selection system was first designed and then evaluated based on the input scores using the system designed based on the least error, traditional distribution channel, and fuel station branding design. The results show that the best system for distribution channel selection was the adaptive neural-fuzzy network combined with the particle swarm algorithm. By comparing the performance of the branding plan and the traditional method, it was determined that the branding plan performed better and was a suitable distribution channel for the National Oil Products Distribution Company of the West Azerbaijan Dual Regions. Brusset et al., (2023) addressed this issue in a study as a dynamic method for the effects of re-understanding the supply chain during the pandemic. In this study, they created and used the dynamic method in which they redrawn the dynamic model using the optimal control model. Their model is a combination of optimal control and a pandemic model (such as Corona); and in fact, their model was a combination of these two models, which are older and more time-consuming than machine learning methods. Research Methodology The research method is applicable in terms of its purpose, and mixed (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of implementation method. In the qualitative part, interviews with experts active in the food industry with complete information and sufficient experience in the supply chain of this industry have been used until theoretical saturation, which were 10 people of relevant experts in large companies in this field. In the quantitative part, the field method and questionnaire were used to collect data with statistical methods, and this number was also 114 people selected as a sample from the statistical population. Research findings Due to the data conditions and the application of the field of machine learning in the supply chain, the support vector machine algorithm; which is one of the very strong algorithms in the field of artificial intelligence, was used. The results showed that customer satisfaction has a negative effect in the research model. Supply chain coordination has a positive effect in the research model. Factors affecting costs have a positive effect, but its amount is moderate. Economic and market conditions have a positive effect in the model. Internet infrastructure has limited importance in the model. Environmental risks have a positive effect. Product quality has a negative effect in the model. Conclusion The present study aimed to identify and investigate the effectiveness of supply chain risk indicators of online commerce activities in the food industry through machine learning method using the single support vector algorithm. The results of this study are consistent with the results of Ahmadi et al., (2023), Samiei et al., (2023), SpieskeAlexander et al., (2023), Akkerman et al., (2023), Brusset et al., (2023), Burgess et al., (2023), Ozdemir et al., (2022), Khorram Ruz., (2022), Sheydaei (2022), Pellegrino et al., (2022), and Zeng et al., (2019). Ozdemir et al., (2022) examined the effects of the pandemic on the supply chain of store goods, and finally examined and evaluated their presented model using covariance. The results indicated that in the field of supply chain vibration control, innovation can be greatly affected, so they used statistical methods for their research method. Considering the research topic, it is suggested that researchers use other machine learning algorithms, such as random forest and decision tree, and estimate the necessary evaluations. In addition, in each of these models, the accuracy of the models can be compared, and the effectiveness of each indicator in other models can also be examined. These algorithms and evaluations can also be used in industries other than the food industry.

Business Management

The effect of communication quality and brand image on customer loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction: in Islamic Bank of Afghanistan

Volume 5, Issue 1, Spring 2025, Pages 29-50

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.425049.1239

Mohammad Wasim Zaka

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of communication quality and brand image on customer loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, descriptive-survey in terms of nature, and causal type. The statistical population of this research is the customers of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula of 384 people and the samples were selected by simple random sampling. In order to collect data, questionnaires of quality of communication by Chin et al., (2014), brand image by Moutinho (2011), customer loyalty by Amin et al., (2011), and customer satisfaction by Jamal Nasser (2002) were used. Their validity was confirmed by academic experts, and their reliability through Cronbach's alpha coefficient. In order to analyze the data, the structural equation technique was used through Smart PLS statistical software and SPSS software, and also a statistic called VAF was used to determine the intensity of the indirect effect through the mediator variable. The findings of the research showed that the quality of communication had a positive and significant effect on the loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan customers and that the brand image had an impact on customer loyalty. Also, the quality of communication was confirmed on customer satisfaction. Brand image had a greater effect than other components on customer satisfaction of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan, and also customer satisfaction had a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty. The results of the research showed that the quality of communication and brand image with the mediating role of customer satisfaction has a significant effect on the loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan customers. Introduction In recent years, with the major changes occurred in the business environment, only those organizations can continue to exist that have made the main focus of their activities on improving the quality of communication, increasing satisfaction, and sustaining customer satisfaction. It should be mentioned that mere customer satisfaction is not enough; and efforts should be made to create loyalty among them. Creating customer loyalty is not only a goal in marketing, but also considered an important basis for achieving a competitive advantage (Machado et al; 2022). On the other hand, the quality of communication can be mentioned among the factors affecting customer loyalty. Communication quality is known as a set of intangible values ​​that lead to expected long-term relationships between parties. The quality of communication helps companies in establishing basic communication with customers and maintaining them (Dahliani et al; 2021). Another factor affecting customer loyalty is brand image. The brand is considered one of the most valuable assets of any organization and the activities of the organization affect the brand and the perception of consumers and the image they have in their minds of that organization (Deylami Moezzi, 2022). In fact, it is the brand image that is in the mind of the consumer, not the factories where the products are made (Hong, 2012). According to the mentioned cases, customer satisfaction occurs when the perceived performance of the product or customer service meets their expectations. Indeed, it is widely agreed that customer satisfaction can lead to customer loyalty (Leclercq et al; 2022). One of the tools that today's business owners equip themselves with is to improve the quality of customer relationship management; the more the quality size of communication maintained, the more leads to the customer's loyalty. The quality of communication and customer satisfaction is one of the factors affecting customer loyalty. Brand images carry different meanings with themselves that affect customer loyalty. Islamic Bank of Afghanistan, as one of the largest commercial banks in Afghanistan, has an effective presence in the domestic, regional and global markets of Afghanistan by designing and creating new services with the aim of creating value for customers, especially valuable customers. This research seeks to answer the question that to what extent the quality of communication and brand image with the mediating role of customer satisfaction can affect customer loyalty. Theoretical Framework The quality of communication with the customer can reduce the insecurity experienced by the customer, which increases the customer's trust and confidence, and will affect the interactive relationship between customers in the future (Vize et al; 2016). According to Porter (1985), brand image is a mental image, reflecting the way a brand is perceived, which includes all elements of identification, product or company personality, and emotions and associations evoked in the consumer's mind (Onyancha, 2013). Loyalty is defined as a deep determination to return and support a preferred preference. It is providing value to customers through their services and products and showing curiosity to fulfill their demands or even create a relationship with customers (AL-JANABI, 2022). Researchers consider customer satisfaction psychologically as a feeling that is obtained as a result of comparing the received product specifications with the needs and desires of customers and social expectations regarding the product (Azandariani & Arya, 2022). Lubis et al., (2022) in a research entitled the effect of the quality of corporate communication and services on customer loyalty and satisfaction in Islamic banking. Their data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation model analysis technique. The results have shown that the quality of communication has a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty. Putra et al., (2020) in an article entitled the effect of service quality and brand image on customer loyalty with customer satisfaction as a mediating variable: the case study of Berri Bank, Jakarta Kamayuran branch. The results of the findings of this study have shown that the effect of service quality and brand image plays a role on customer satisfaction; and the effect of service quality and brand image on customer loyalty. Research method The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, survey-analytical in terms of implementation method, and causal type. The statistical population of this research is the customers of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. According to the statistical population of the research, the size of the population is assumed to be unlimited; and according to Cochran's formula, 384 people were randomly selected as a statistical sample. To test the hypotheses and analyze the data, structural equation modeling method with partial least squares approach and PLS Smart version 3 software were used. In order to collect data, authentic questionnaires of communication quality (Chin et al., 2014), brand image (Bain Moutinho 2011), customer satisfaction (Jamal Nasser 2002), and customer loyalty (Amin et al., 2011) were used. Findings SPSS and PLS software were used to check research hypotheses and data analysis. The results showed that the quality of communication has a positive and significant effect on the loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan customers. This means that the value of the path coefficient between the two variables is 0.243, which indicates that the communication quality variable explains 24.3% of the changes in the loyalty of the customers of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. The results of the second hypothesis showed that the path coefficient between the two variables is 0.233, and it confirms that customer loyalty explains 23.3 percent of the changes in the brand image of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. According to the results of the third hypothesis, the path coefficient between the two variables is 0.316, and this is confirmed by the fact that customer satisfaction explains 31.6% of the changes in the communication quality variable of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. The results of the structural model test regarding the fourth hypothesis indicate that the brand image has a positive effect on the customer satisfaction of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. The path coefficient between the two variables is 0.497, which indicates that customer satisfaction explains 49.7% of the changes in the body image variable of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan and has been assigned the first rank; the obtained result shows that the brand image plays an important role plays a role in the formation of customer satisfaction. Regarding the fifth hypothesis, the results showed that the path coefficient between the two variables is 0.451, and this is confirmed by the fact that customer satisfaction explains 45.1% of the changes in the communication quality variable of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. In relation to the intensity of the effect of the mediating variable of "customer satisfaction", the mediating role in the effect of communication quality on loyalty was ranked last in terms of mediating; that is, customer satisfaction plays a mediating role in the effect of communication quality on customer loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. Determining the intensity of the indirect effect through the intermediary variable of the statistic is equal to 0.368; which means that 36.8 percent of the effect of communication quality on customer loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan is explained through the indirect effect of the mediating variable of customer satisfaction. And also in relation to the effect of the intensity of the mediating variable "customer satisfaction" on the effect of brand image on customer loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan, it has been ranked first; therefore, the mediating role of customer satisfaction variable in the effect of brand image on customer loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan is confirmed. The intensity of the indirect effect through the mediator variable was equal to 0.799; therefore, 79.9 percent of the effect of trust in the brand on the loyalty of Islamic Bank of Afghanistan customers is explained through the indirect effect by the mediating variable of customer satisfaction. Conclusion This research was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of communication quality and brand image on customer loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction in Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. According to the obtained results, the present research is consistent with the results of Putra et al., (2020), Lotfi et al., (2022), Khan et al., (2022), Lubis et al., (2022), Najmudin et al., (2022), Al-Bashayreh et al., (2022), Syahfudi & Ruswanti (2015), and Putra et al., (2020). The results showed that quality communication increases customer loyalty and connects them to the bank and its services, and the quality of communication leads to consequences such as: increasing the share of purchases, maintaining the relationship, developing future interactions, word-of-mouth advertising, and loyalty. On the other hand, if the brand image is reliable, customer loyalty will increase as well, and also the brand image plays an important role in the formation of customer satisfaction. As much as the banks provide services according to the demands of their customers, the customers' satisfaction increases as well, and customer' satisfaction affects the brand image, and brands are associated in the minds of customers, and finally, the brand image increases customer loyalty. According to the research results, the following suggestions are provided: To improve the quality of communication with customers, it is suggested that banks establish mutual communication with their customers, which occurs when the receiver and the sender of the message continuously exchange roles. It is suggested that banks improve their banking services and identify the path of customer satisfaction in order to develop their service strategy in this direction, and also deal with customer problems and have a good and friendly relationship with their customers. It is suggested that banks introduce their brand accurately and honestly in social networks and media, and share informative and effective content to create this mindset in customers.

Entrepreneurship

Design and validation of value-oriented strategic marketing model in Iranian airlines

Volume 4, Issue 4, Winter 2025, Pages 214-237

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.430208.1270

Majid Ahang, Naser Azad, Abdullah Naami, Alireza Rousta

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to design and validate value-based strategic marketing model in Iranian airlines. In terms of purpose, the current research is applicable, and is a mixed research (qualitative-quantitative), and the philosophy of this research is positivistic-interpretative with an inductive approach. The statistical population of the research in the qualitative part includes 10 marketing specialists of airline companies and university professors with trends related to the research topic, selected by the purposeful sampling method and the snowball method. The statistical population of the quantitative part also includes 520 commercial and marketing specialists of airline companies, among whom a sample size of 221 were selected using Cochran's formula, and by stratified random sampling. The data collection tool includes a semi-structured interview in the qualitative part; and a researcher-made questionnaire in the quantitative part. Data analysis was done by the data method of the Corbin and Strauss Foundation (2015) and using MAXQDA (2020) software in the qualitative part; SPSS and AMOS software were used and in the quantitative part. The research model was extracted based on identifying 1015 open codes, relating the codes to 215 concepts and 31 main categories (in 12 categories). The results of the research, in addition to presenting a comprehensive and new model for strategic marketing for Iranian airlines with a value-based approach, showed that in order to have a dynamic and successful marketing and achieve the goals of profitability, customer satisfaction and economic development of the society, Iranian airlines should adopt marketing and development strategies. Extended Abstract                                           Introduction Air travel creates many social and economic benefits for many different people, governments, national economies, large and small businesses, and travelers who simply want to visit family or enrich their lives by seeing new places and experiencing new cultures (IATA, 2022). The airline industry is one of the most competitive and capital intensive sectors in the world due to various factors such as low entry barriers and large number of airlines. This has led various airlines to propose or adopt strategies that help them gain a competitive advantage over their competitors (Garrett, 2019). Strategic marketing is the use of marketing disciplines to achieve organizational goals by developing and maintaining sustainable competitive advantage. It deals with high-level considerations, such as what markets to target, which services to offer, and how to price and promote them (Frederiksen, 2022). Researchers believe that the more organizations can gain a better understanding of customer needs as well as competitors' activities and factors affecting market conditions and information distribution at all levels of the organization, the more they will have the ability to survive in the competitive market. From a practical point of view, creating value for the customer becomes more important every day. Creating value for customers includes customer participatory behaviors and customer citizenship behaviors. Participatory behavior refers to the behavior and participation of customer information, accountability and personal interaction behaviors (Aroofarakh et al, 2023). Based on this, the current research is looking for an answer to this question: What is the design and validation of value-oriented strategic marketing model in Iranian airlines? Theoretical Framework Strategic marketing Current trends and forces in the 21st century encourage leading companies to define and apply comprehensive marketing concepts. Every decision and behavior in the framework of marketing activities is influenced by environmental factors. The most important feature of the environment is transformation and change. Strategic marketing is long-term marketing activities according to the marketing environment, which has long-term effects on the company and its future (Keller, 2017). Airlines It usually refers to an industry group that moves passengers or cargo through airlines. Airlines usually sell air tickets to their various destinations in a systematic way or allow them to create domestic and foreign tourism tours in the form of rental distribution between airline agencies (Halpern, 2022). Valorization The value creation process has moved from the traditional product and company-oriented perspective to the personal experiences of the consumer. Value creation and extraction is increasingly created through interactions between consumers and organizations, and value can be created through multiple elements such as price, quality, and location. Therefore, companies are responsible for determining the value delivered based on their strategies and shareholder values ​​(Tuominen & Matthyssens, 2022).  Shadbakhsh (2023) investigated the impact of using sustainable marketing strategies on the performance of digital businesses with the mediation of information technology in the country's real estate industry. The results showed that marketing trends and sustainable marketing experiences have a positive effect on the performance of the studied companies. Also, marketing trends, sustainable marketing experiences and sustainable marketing strategies have a positive effect on the performance of selected companies. Wang (2021) has investigated the marketing strategies of Qatar Airways in a research titled "Understanding the strategy used by leading airlines". The results confirm that considering that the aviation industry is very competitive, it requires strong marketing strategies to create value and identify opportunities. The nature of services offered in the airline industry is attractive in terms of transportation, facilities, amenities and privileges. Companies must align themselves with specific segments or target customers based on capabilities and market dominance. Research methodology In terms of purpose, the current research is applicable, and is a mixed research (qualitative-quantitative); and the philosophy of this research is positivist-interpretative with an inductive approach. The statistical population of the research in the qualitative part includes 10 people from the marketing specialists of airline companies and university professors with trends related to the subject of the research, selected by the purposeful sampling method and the snowball method. The statistical population of the quantitative part also includes 520 commercial and marketing specialists of airline companies, among whom a sample size of 221 were selected using Cochran's formula and stratified random sampling. The data collection tool includes a semi-structured interview in the qualitative part, and a researcher-made questionnaire in the quantitative part. Research findings Data analysis was done through the data method of the Corbin and Strauss Foundation (2015) and using MAXQDA (2020) software in the qualitative part, and SPSS and AMOS software in the quantitative part. The research model was extracted based on identifying 1015 open codes; relating the codes to 215 concepts and 31 main categories (in 12 categories). The results of the research, in addition to presenting a comprehensive and new model for strategic marketing for Iranian airlines with a value-based approach, showed that in order to have a dynamic and successful marketing and achieve the goals of profitability, customer satisfaction and economic development of the society; Iranian airlines should adopt marketing strategies of development. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of designing and validating value-based strategic marketing model in Iranian airlines. The results of this research are in agreement with the results of Gill (2020), Zhang (2020), Dini et al, (2018), Cobena et al, (2019), Wang (2021), Shafiei & Mirabi (2019), Camilleri (2018), Mikalef et al, (2020), IvyPanda (2021), Dewsnap et al, (2020), Day & Schoemaker (2020), Afshani & Hatefirad (2017), and Appel et al, (2020). Wang (2021) showed that considering that the aviation industry is very competitive, it requires strong marketing strategies to create value and identify opportunities. The nature of services offered in the airline industry is attractive in terms of transportation, facilities, amenities and privileges. Companies must align themselves with specific segments or target customers based on capabilities and market dominance. According to the results of the research, the following suggestions are provided: 1- It is suggested that Iranian airlines offer travel packages in the form of group and business trips with discounts on ticket prices and additional services such as carrying more luggage, boarding and disembarking from a separate gate, etc. This package aims to attract experts from industrial, commercial, academic groups, etc., who travel a lot, and can be effective in sales development. 2- In order to reduce costs caused by economic sanctions and improve the quality of airline services, it is suggested to cooperate with knowledge-based companies in the field of supplying and manufacturing aircraft consumable parts.

Business Management

Providing a customer satisfaction model of non-attendance services in the social security organization

Volume 4, Issue 3, Autumn 2024, Pages 253-273

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.429477.1268

Hossein Barzgar, Vahid Sanavi Garoosiyan, ali hossein zadeh

Abstract Abstract
The purpose of this research is to provide a model of customer satisfaction with non-attendance services in the social security organization. The current research is applicable-developmental in terms of purpose; and descriptive-analytical based on the method. The statistical population of the present study includes the customers of Khorasan Razavi Social Security Organization, which was considered to be 384 people by Cochran's formula, and simple random sampling method was used. The collection tool in this research includes a researcher-made questionnaire derived from the qualitative method. The variable of customer satisfaction with non-attendance services includes 4 dimensions of infrastructures, culture building, reforming structures, and creativity and innovation. The reliability of the research was checked and confirmed by Cronbach's alpha criterion in SPSS software. Lisrel software was used to fit the conceptual model of the research. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to confirm the final research model. The findings of the research showed that the research model has a suitable fit with the collected data. Also, in order to improve the fit indices of the model, the suggested terms in accordance with the research literature were used, and finally the research model was approved.
Extended Abstract                                          
Introduction
Today, with the invention of new ways to communicate with customers, new communication and electronic methods and sciences related to information technology should also be used. Because, instead of using traditional communication methods, new information technology and advanced electronic communication methods can be used, which will bring about important changes in the field of information and communication technology and the creation of electronic organizations and governments, expanding the influence of the Internet throughout the world, and the emergence of various internet bases and extensive social networks and new media, the production of advanced software, the development of blogs, electronic publications. In this way, a suitable background can be provided for the development and diversification of service delivery methods (Iglesias et al, 2017). With the ever-increasing expansion of the field of e-commerce, the speed of providing services to customers and the quality of services have also increased, causing companies to have more control over quality components to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of delivery of goods and to be able to respond to the growing needs of customers and satisfy them (Zalkani Andarvar, 2021). Diyanti et al, (2021) state that the satisfaction felt by customers is a comparison of the expectations created by customers about the reliability of the performance that a company can provide. According to Permana & Djatmiko (2018), customer satisfaction is a summary of different intensities of emotional reactions that come from a limited time and duration, and target the basic aspects of the consumption of a product. From the above statement, it can be concluded that consumers have a good evaluation of the service and performance of the product for the satisfaction they get from buying a product or provide services they feel (Nabila et al, 2023). Therefore, the researcher is trying to answer the question: what is the customer satisfaction model of non-attendance services in the social security organization?
Theoretical Framework
Customer satisfaction
Teso & Vilton (1899) define satisfaction as: the reaction of customers to evaluate the perceived difference between the previous expectations or to some extent the ideal performance and the actual performance of the product, which is perceived after consumption. Customer satisfaction is defined as the result of an effective evaluation of a benchmark compared to perceived performance in practice. In other words, if the perceived performance meets expectations, satisfaction has been achieved (Shahab Far, 2017).
Non-attendance services
It means services that a person can do at any hour of the day and night through the Internet, without referring to the organization (Bidmon, 2016).
Mirzaee Azandariani & Arya (2022) investigated the impact of the characteristics of second-hand goods platforms on brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction (the case study of Divar and Sheipur platform in Iran). The findings of the research showed that ease of use has a positive and indirect effect on the intentions of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Perceived usefulness has a positive and indirect effect on the intentions of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and entertainment aspect has a positive and indirect effect on the intentions of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the sense of belonging to the society for a society has a positive and indirect effect on the intentions of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the credibility of the seller on the intention and brand loyalty intentions have a positive and indirect effect as a mediator of customer satisfaction, and knowing the third party has a positive and indirect effect on brand loyalty intentions as a mediator of customer satisfaction.
Deylami Moezzi (2021) investigated the presentation of a structural model of the role of brand love in the impact of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction. The findings of the research indicated that the components of marketing stimuli (product stimulus, pricing stimulus, distribution stimulus, and promotion stimulus, respectively), had the greatest effect on customer satisfaction. The results of the research showed that marketing stimuli have a direct and indirect effect on customer satisfaction. Love for the brand plays a mediating role in the effect of the elements of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction.
Research methodology
The current research is applicable-developmental in terms of purpose; and descriptive-analytical based on the method. The statistical population of the present study includes the customers of Khorasan Razavi Social Security Organization, which was considered to be 384 people by Cochran's formula, and simple random sampling method was used. The collection tool in this research includes a researcher-made questionnaire derived from the qualitative method. The variable of customer satisfaction with non-attendance services includes 4 dimensions of infrastructures, culture building, reforming structures, and creativity and innovation.
Research findings
SPSS software was used to analyze the data of this research, and Lisrel software was used to fit the conceptual model of the research. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to confirm the final research model. The findings of the research showed that the research model has a suitable fit with the collected data. Also, in order to improve the fit indices of the model, the suggested terms in accordance with the research literature were used, and finally the research model was approved.
Conclusion
The current research was conducted with the aim of providing a customer satisfaction model of non-attendance services in the social security organization. This research is consistent with the results of Mirzaee Azandariani & Arya (2022), Deylami Moezzi (2021), Katja et al, (2020), Feng et al, (2020), OriolI et al, (2019), LuisArditto et al, (2019), Rita et al, (2019), Suri (2020), and Ehsani (2020). Suri (2020) showed that there is a significant positive relationship between the quality of electronic services with website design and customer service. In addition, the existence of a significant positive relationship between the quality of electronic services and the security of privacy and the fulfillment of services was also confirmed. Other research results show the impact of electronic service quality on customer satisfaction and trust. According to the results, it can be concluded that in order to increase profitability,, companies can achieve the goal of making customers loyal faster by investing in customer satisfaction and increasing their satisfaction with electronic services.
Based on the results of the research, it is suggested that by creative management of knowledge and innovative application, the organization can enable employees to rely on their experiences in organizational issues that require new solutions and help the organization as it grows on the learning path. Innovation is recognized as an important factor in enabling companies to maintain perceived customer value and maintain competitive advantage in a highly complex and rapidly changing environment. Innovation is the key factor in the success or failure of organizations in the field of competition and the main source of competitive advantage. However, with the increasing opportunities offered by technology and artificial intelligence, digital assistants can create favorable outcomes for Social Security clients with new services.

Business Management

Providing a model of purchase intention and customer experience on customer behavior in virtual networks

Volume 4, Issue 3, Autumn 2024, Pages 274-297

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.413881.1167

Kazem Tolooee, Hossein budaghi Khajeh Noubar, Hossein Gharehbiglo, Mojtaba Ramazani

Abstract Abstract
The purpose of this research is to provide a model of purchase intention and experience of customer on customer behavior in virtual networks. The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-survey in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of the present study includes the customers of the stores of Afogh Korosh who bought from these stores in 2022 during one month (June), which was considered to be 384 people using Cochran's formula. Sampling is random, and a multi-stage cluster type. The collection tool in this research includes a questionnaire of purchase intention pattern based on customers' experience in designed virtual networks. Data analysis was done through SPSS and SMART PLS software. The effect of mindfulness and customer experience (respect for the customer, importance of time, banking operation research, customer value culture, modern technology, offering facilities, enjoyment, queuing system, environment coloring, and excellent situation) on the satisfaction, loyalty and trust of customers was proved. The results showed that the aspects of purchase intention and customer experience through effecting on customer behavior leads to better understanding of mindfulness and experimental factors among banking systems, and can increase satisfaction, loyalty and also trust among customers of Afogh Korosh store. Also, the research model has a good fit.
Extended Abstract                                          
Introduction
With the powerful development of the Internet, web and mobile applications; customers get a wide range of options to choose their desired products and services (Duarte et al, 2018). Meanwhile, one of the emerging aspects, especially in our country, in this field is the emergence of online stores (Rasuli et al, 2018). Maintaining a high level of online shopping convenience has become a strategic driving force for online retailers to promote and maintain customer loyalty (Duarte et al, 2018). Despite the many advantages of online stores that have been mentioned, the problem here is that when a customer visits and intends to buy from an online store, he is not faced with a real seller and a real store, but with an online website and virtual store that presents information about his product and invites the customer to buy these products (Rasuli et al, 2018). An online marketplace focuses on capturing the needs of specific consumers and offers various possibilities for online retailers to advertise their products or services. To maintain a presence in the market, customer needs must be precisely understood. This understanding helps the market to improve service quality, trust and customer engagement to increase customer satisfaction and encourage the desire to buy more. (Putri et al, 2023). Practitioners need to better understand the factors that improve the relationship between consumers and online retailers, and increase revenue and profits. Increasing competition in the market has forced businesses to develop a stronger relationship with their customers, which positively affects their repurchase decisions (Antwi, 2021). Therefore, the researcher is trying to answer the question: how does the presentation of the model of purchase intention and customer experience affect the behavior of customers in virtual networks?
Theoretical Framework
Intention to buy
Repurchase intention refers to the repeat purchase of a particular brand by a customer after using the same brand, or the customer's belief in continuing to buy from a particular company in the future (Bulut, 2015).
 
Customer experience
 Chen & Yang (2021) in their research define customer experience as the dominance of online customers on customer interactions and the environment of service employees, policies and sales processes, in which the higher the customer experience, the greater the increase in business performance in e-commerce. (Anifa, 2022).
Customer Satisfaction
 Mirzaee Azandariani & Arya (2022) define satisfaction as follows: Customers' reaction to evaluate the perceived difference between prior expectations or to some extent ideal performance and the actual performance of the product, which is perceived after consumption. Customer satisfaction is defined as the result of an effective evaluation of a benchmark compared to perceived performance in practice. In other words, if the perceived performance meets expectations, satisfaction has been achieved (Shahab Far, 2017).
Customer loyalty
Loyalty is a strong deep commitment created for stable and continuous repurchase of a preferred product or service in the future, while there are situational influences and competitors' marketing efforts to change the customer's use towards another product or service (Wolter et al. et al., 2017).
Customer trust
Trust refers to all the skills that customers have and all the decisions made by customers to achieve a goal (Aziziyah, 2020).
Kim & Park (2023) conducted a research on the influence of virtual influencers' attractiveness on purchase intention: a product moderated mediation model. The findings showed that the attractiveness of virtual influencers is not directly related to purchase intention. However, imitative desire and brand attachment mediated this relationship. In addition, the conditional direct effect of virtual influencers' attractiveness on purchase intention was partially supported while the indirect effects were moderated by imitative desire and brand attachment by product-endorser fit.
Tang (2023) conducted a research on empowering digital marketing with interactive virtual reality in interior design: effects on customer satisfaction and behavioral intention. The results showed that the above factors positively affect customer satisfaction with a digital platform empowered by the internal design of the IVR. It was found that the quality of information has the greatest impact among these three factors. Although many researchers have conducted in-depth research on digital marketing, existing research lacks a consumer perspective to examine the factors that most influence consumers. In addition, relatively little work has been done to determine customer perceptions of a digital marketing approach using virtual interior design and its interactive features. Therefore, a theoretical model for interactive virtual interior design features for digital marketing is proposed.
Research methodology
The current research is applicable in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of the present study includes the customers of the stores of Afogh Korosh who bought from these stores in 2022 during one month (June), which was considered to be 384 people using Cochran's formula. Sampling is random, a multi-stage cluster type. The collection tool in this research includes a questionnaire of purchase intention pattern based on customers' experience in virtual networks.
Research findings
Data analysis was done through SPSS and SMART PLS software. The effect of mindfulness and customer experience (respect for the customer, importance of time, banking operation research, customer value culture, modern technology, offering facilities, enjoyment, queuing system, environment coloring and excellent location) on the satisfaction, loyalty and trust of customers was approved. The results showed that the dimensions of purchase intention and customer experience with the effect on customer behavior on better understanding of mindfulness and experimental factors among banking systems can increase satisfaction, loyalty and also trust among customers of Afogh Korosh store. Also, the research model of It has a good fit.
Conclusion
The current research has been conducted with the aim of providing a model of purchase intention and customer experience on customer behavior in virtual networks. The results of this research are aligned with the results of Kim & Park (2023), Tang (2023), Rusta et al, (2023), Kautish et al, (2023), Asgari & Naghdi (2021), Kosa & Uysal (2021), Boak (2021), Golalizadeh et al, (2023), Poursalimi & Bayat (2022), Pakrovan et al, (2022), Torkrar et al, (2022), Kazemi et al, (2021). Tang (2023) showed that the above factors positively affect customer satisfaction with a digital platform empowered by the internal design of the IVR. It was found that the quality of information has the greatest impact among these three factors. Although many researchers have conducted in-depth research on digital marketing, existing researches lack a consumer perspective to examine the factors that most influence consumers. In addition, relatively little work has been done to determine customer perceptions of a digital marketing approach using virtual interior design and its interactive features. Therefore, a theoretical model for interactive virtual interior design features for digital marketing is proposed.
According to the results of the research, the following suggestions are presented:
1- Increasing electronic services on the store's website and application in order to create more satisfaction and motivation in customers and repeat purchases.
2- Creating this mentality in customers that they will have more benefit to buy from this store; this will cause the frequency of purchases in customers and increase customer satisfaction.
3- Increasing the benefit perceived by the customer in order to their better understanding about the store's products and also creating satisfaction and loyalty in them.

Business Management

Analysis of the impact of the quality of service to the elderly on their loyalty through a Memorable experience and satisfaction among the elderly in 5-star hotels in Mashhad.

Volume 4, Issue 1, Spring 2024, Pages 71-92

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.397087.1090

tina ezazi, vajihe hoshyar

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to analyze the effect of the quality of service to the elderly on their loyalty through a memorable experience and satisfaction among the elderly customers of 5-star hotels in Mashhad. The research method is applicable in terms of purpose and the method of data collection is descriptive-survey. The statistical population of the research is all elderly people over 70 years of age who refer to 5-star hotels in Mashhad and have used that hotel at least 3 times, the number of which is unknown, according to the tenfold formula of the questionnaire questions, 270 samples were selected by the available non-random method. The data was collected through a standard questionnaire and then analyzed by structural equation modeling using Smart pls 2 and SPSS 24 softwares. The findings show that the electronic customer relationship management variable had a positive and significant impact on product innovation development and the product innovation development variable had a positive and significant impact on marketing performance. Also, customer knowledge had a positive and significant impact on both marketing performance and product innovation development, and electronic customer relationship management and customer knowledge through product innovation development had a positive and significant impact on marketing performance. Extended Abstract Introduction Having loyal customers in intense competition is a key factor for the success of organizations, therefore, the plans and strategies of organizations move towards the factors influencing customer loyalty, and obtaining customer satisfaction is an effective step to achieve this important goal (Fallah & Hamidi, 2021). Customer satisfaction is achieved when customers have a memorable and enjoyable experience of receiving services and products (Agarwal, Ira. Gowda, 2020).  With the intensification of competition, companies have realized that providing a memorable experience to customers is very important to survive and gain a competitive advantage (Roozen & Katidis, 2019). Obviously, companies should focus on creating positive experiences to win the minds of customers (Micu, 2019); therefore, creating memorable experiences is important to retain old customers and attract new ones (Chen & Wu, 2022). However, the important factor in the formation of a valuable customer experience, followed by customer satisfaction; which enables the realization of customer loyalty, is the quality of service. Service quality is the ability of a product to meet the desired goal with the minimum possible cost (Bui et al., 2022). In the hotel industry, service quality is inevitable in order for the hotel to be distinguished from their competitors and to satisfy customers (Feng et al., 2018). In the meantime, the increase in the age of people and the expansion of the circle of elderly people in the society have led managers and hotel owners to plan and pay attention to providing quality services according to the wishes of the elderly (Prentice et al., 2022). Because increasing the satisfaction and loyalty of people of different ages requires knowing more about the different demands and needs of customers during their experience in the hotel. The organization can create value from providing its services and products when the service and product are provided according to the opinion and taste of the customers, which shows the intelligence of the managers in paying comprehensive attention to the customers (Mansouri et al., 2022). Therefore, improving service quality has become an important tool in the hotel industry in order to achieve a competitive advantage and retain customers. Satisfied hotel customers are more likely to return than dissatisfied ones (Liu, 2023). Currently, most organizations have realized that customer satisfaction can lead to their long-term success; the tourism industry, especially hotels, is no exception to this rule (Kim & Han, 2023). The best hotels consider customer satisfaction as the most important competitive weapon to achieve profit (Dah et al., 2023). According to the above explanations, the main question in the current research is whether the quality of service to the elderly through a memorable experience and satisfaction among the elderly customers of 5-star hotels in Mashhad leads to the loyalty of the elderly or not. Theoretical Literature Rachman et al., (2023) in a research entitled "Evaluation of the effect of service quality and product quality on customer satisfaction with the store" reached these results that service quality has a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction. Prentice et al., (2022) conducted a research entitled "Investigating the role of memorable experience and emotional intelligence in the loyalty of senior customers to hotels for the elderly". The findings showed that service quality has a significantly greater impact on customer satisfaction, memorable experience, and customer loyalty. In addition, memorable customer experiences mediate the relationship between service quality and organizational outcomes. kiani et al., (2022) conducted a study entitled "Investigation of aesthetic factors and service quality on the perceived value, loyalty and satisfaction of customers of swimming pools in Kermanshah province". The results showed that there is a positive and significant effect between service quality and customer loyalty and performance. Research Methodology This research is applicable in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of nature. In terms of data collection, it is a field research using a questionnaire tool and based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population of the research is all seniors over 70 years of age who refer to 5-star hotels in Mashhad and have used that hotel at least 3 times, in uncertain volume. Based on the tenfold formula of questionnaire questions, 270 samples were selected in a non-random method. The data collection tool was a questionnaire, which was distributed after determining its validity and reliability. The questionnaire included 27 questions related to the main research variables, which were tested for reliability and validity after preliminary distribution. To check the reliability of the questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha method and composite reliability were used and confirmed. To check its validity, face validity and factor validity (through confirmatory factor analysis) were used. The third version of SmartPLS software was used for data analysis. Research Findings In order to check and test the hypotheses or the conceptual model of the research, smart pls 3 software was used, and the results showed that the effect of the quality of service to the elderly on the memorable experience was calculated to be equal to (0.42), which indicates a favorable effect. The t-statistic of the test was also obtained (8.60), which is greater than the critical value of t at the 5% error level, i.e. (1.96), and shows that the effect is significant. The effect of the quality of service to the elderly on customer satisfaction has been calculated to be equal to (0.27), which indicates a favorable effect. The t-statistic of the test was also obtained (3.38), which is greater than the critical value of t at the 5% error level, i.e. (1.96), and it shows that the effect is significant. The impact of memorable experience on customer loyalty has been calculated equal to (0.28), which indicates a favorable impact. The t-statistic of the test was also obtained (3.64), which is greater than the critical value of t at the 5% error level, i.e. (1.96) and shows that the effect is significant. The effect of customer satisfaction on customer loyalty has been calculated as (0.26), which indicates a favorable effect. The t-statistic of the test was also obtained (2.86), which is greater than the critical value of t at the 5% error level, i.e. (1.96), and shows that the effect is significant. The impact of memorable experience on customer satisfaction has been calculated equal to (0.48), which indicates a favorable impact. The t-statistic of the test was also obtained (6.45), which is greater than the critical value of t at the 5% error level, i.e. (1.96), and it shows that the effect is significant. The impact of service quality through memorable experience on customer loyalty has been calculated equal to (0.12), which indicates a favorable impact. The effect of service quality through customer satisfaction on customer loyalty has been calculated equal to (0.07), which indicates a favorable effect. The mediator's role is confirmed in recent hypotheses.   Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the effect of the quality of service to the elderly on their loyalty through a memorable experience and satisfaction among the elderly customers of 5-star hotels in Mashhad. Test results are aligned with research findings of Saberian & Mirmiran (2021), Prentice et al., (2022), Bahari & Bahari (2021), Saberian & Mirmiran (2021), Agarwal & Gowda (2020), Boonlertvanich (2019), and Nyamekye et al., (2021). The results and examination of the hypotheses of the research model determined that service quality has a direct and indirect effect on the loyalty and return of elderly customers to 5-star hotels in Mashhad, and it is an important factor in increasing customer loyalty and creating a platform of attractive experiences for returning customers. Production and service organizations consider the level of customer satisfaction, especially the elderly, as a criterion to measure the quality of their work, and this trend is still increasing. The importance of elderly customers in their satisfaction is something that goes back to the global competition. In order to create satisfaction among the elderly, in addition to removing the causes of dissatisfaction and existing complaints, organizations should provide high-quality and attractive products and services in order to provide the elderly with happiness and a memorable experience, and provide the basis for increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. By inferring the results, it is suggested that hotels provide the necessary preparations to strengthen the sense of security and peace in their seniors through quality and unique services. Also, in accordance with the wishes of the elderly customers, they strive for entertaining programs and services and continuously establish peace and security in the hotel.

business management

Investigating and prioritizing the factors affecting the success of e-commerce using the best and worst (BWM) technique.

Volume 4, Issue 1, Spring 2024, Pages 215-230

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.431236.1276

shayan mohammadpour mir, shiba masoumi, seyed mojtaba kavoosi davoodi

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate and prioritize factors affecting the success of e-commerce in small and medium-sized companies in Mazandaran province. The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of this research includes 15 experts with master's degree or higher, and at least 10 years of work experience in the relevant field and managers, and experts of small and medium companies in Mazandaran. Fuzzy Delphi method was used for review and prioritization. The best-worst method (BWM) was used to prioritize the factors and its components, and Lingo software was used for analysis. Effective factors include the components of 1- infrastructure (access to the Internet network, electronic storage of information, security systems and electronic payments), 2- payment system (payment authorization, various customer payment methods, settlement operations), 3- Knowledge and awareness (customer notification system, customer privacy consideration, company's response to customers' frequent questions), 4- Customer satisfaction (variety of products and advertisements, company's seasonal auctions, timely delivery of goods, building trust). The results show that the prioritization of factors affecting the success of        e-commerce, respectively, payment system, infrastructure, customer satisfaction, and knowledge and awareness gained the first to fourth rank of importance. Extended Abstract Introduction The emergence of the Internet has made it easier for newcomers to enter, and as a result, the number of competitors in various markets has increased. Advances in information and communication technology and the rapid expansion of the Internet have undergone many changes and transformations in various areas of human life, as well as in various business fields. Changes in the business environment are the main characteristics of this century (Taghavi fard & Abdoli Masinan, 2020). New technologies have transformed the way of providing customer service in today's organizations (Sanyayan & Sanyaei, 2016). The digitization of businesses has changed many traditional businesses to electronic businesses, and this issue shows the growth of e-commerce transactions in the world, and the new systems that are recently used in e-commerce by governments and private companies are among the most effective factors for success in electronic commerce (Singh et al, 2017). In e-commerce, the conventional meaning of economic benefits largely refers to customer retention on e-commerce platforms, discounts, advertizements, or other preferred activities (Liu et al, 2019). To measure success in e-commerce, it can be seen in customer satisfaction when searching for the desired product and buying online (Abdallah & Jaleel, 2015). Despite its advantages, e-commerce also faces challenges because changing people's habits is not an easy task. For example, researchers in e-commerce have mentioned the skills and techniques of gaining customer trust as an essential factor (Murphy & Tocher, 2011). Small and medium enterprises are a large part of industrial economies. Their growth and development is very important and many researches have been started to determine electronic business in small and medium companies. It is thought that the success of e-commerce in the small and medium sector will make the country more competitive, and this successful adoption and use of e-commerce technology is vital for survival. Therefore, the researcher is trying to answer the question: what is the evaluation and priority of factors affecting the success of e-commerce in small and medium enterprises of Mazandaran province? Theoretical Framework E-commerce success E-commerce is the use of computers in one or more networks to create and transmit commercial information, which is mostly related to buying and selling information, goods and services through the Internet. On the other hand, e-commerce has certain advantages over traditional business; e-commerce changes the way business is conducted and thus transforms traditional markets into new forms and creates significant changes in competitive conditions (Ebrahim Shamirani, 2015).   Customer satisfaction Satisfaction is wider than quality, and quality is considered one of the factors of creating satisfaction in customers. Satisfaction means the evaluation of customers about the product or service provided to whether it was able to meet the expectations of customers or not. In fact, customer satisfaction is the result of satisfying customer needs (Ahmadi et al, 2015).  Agheshlouei et al, (2023) investigated the presentation of a new business model to help entrepreneurs develop new businesses and e-commerce startups. The results of the research show that, in addition to improving the business model of Strowalder and Pignor, the business model presented in this study leads to a better understanding of the elements of the business model by entrepreneurs, and improves investment negotiations by creating convergence and common understanding of business concepts between entrepreneurs and investors. Using this business model, entrepreneurs focus on the value proposition in addition to the technical details. Atimehr et al, (2022) in an article entitled Development of the antecedent model of e-commerce success using structural equations and (IPMA) method, showed that among the explanatory variables of e-commerce success, the variable of electronic oralization has the most relative importance; while the customer support system variable has the least relative importance. Also, from the point of view of the respondents, it was found that the electronic satisfaction variable has the highest performance coefficient, while the customer support system variable has the lowest performance coefficient. Research methodology The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of this research includes 15 experts with master's degree or higher, with at least 10 years of work experience in the relevant field, and managers and experts of small and medium companies in Mazandaran. Fuzzy Delphi method was used for review and prioritization.   Research findings In order to prioritize the factors and its components, the best-worst method (BWM) was used, and Lingo software was used for analysis. Effective factors include 1- infrastructure components (access to the Internet, electronic information storage, security systems and electronic payments), 2- Payment system (payment authorization, various customer payment methods, account settlement operations), 3- Knowledge and awareness (customer notification system, customer privacy consideration, company's response to customers' frequent questions), 4- Customer satisfaction (variety of products and advertisements, Company's seasonal auctions, timely delivery of goods, building trust). The results show that the prioritization of factors affecting the success of e-commerce, respectively, payment system, infrastructure, customer satisfaction, and knowledge and awareness gained the first to fourth rate of importance. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of investigating and prioritizing factors affecting the success of e-commerce in small and medium-sized companies in Mazandaran province. The results of this research are in agreement with the results of Agheshlouei et al, (2023), Atimehr et al, (2022), Lobel Trong Thuy (2021), Emami Meibodi (2021), Jalali (2021), Himanshu & Aggarwal (2019), and Choshin & Ghaffari (2017). Agheshlouei et al, (2023) showed that, in addition to improving the business model of Sturwalder and Pignor, the presented business model gives entrepreneurs a better understanding of the elements of the business model and improves investment negotiations by creating convergence and a common understanding of business concepts between entrepreneurs and investors. Using this business model, entrepreneurs focus on the value proposition in addition to the technical details. According to the present research, the following suggestions are presented: Employees should be trained to use internet networks better Creation of documents management and databases for electronic storage and security of information Appropriate pricing according to competitors' prices and establishing cost management Investment and innovation in the use of e-commerce in small and medium enterprises Collecting customer information considering their privacy for their satisfaction Dealing with customer criticisms and analyzing them Evaluating the use of e-commerce

Investigating the effect of the characteristics of second-hand goods platforms on brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction (the study of Divar and Shipour platform in Iran)

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2022, Pages 18-38

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2022.313119.1002

ayeh mirzaee Azandariani, Kiumars Arya

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of the characteristics of second-hand goods platforms on brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction (the case study of Divar and Shipour platform in Iran). In terms of the goal, the current research is a developmental and applicable type, and in terms of the research method, it is descriptive-correlative based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population of the present research is the sellers of second-hand goods on the platforms of Divar and Sheipour, and considering the large number of people, 5 thousand people were considered as the research population, among which 357 people were selected as the sample size using simple random sampling, according to the Morgan table. The collection tool in the current research is Abs et al.'s (2020) questionnaire. In order to analyze the data, the structural equation technique was used using Spss and pls statistical software. The findings of the research showed that ease of use has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Perceived usefulness has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and entertainment aspect has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the sense of belonging to the society has a positive and indirect effect for a society on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the credibility of the seller on the intention of brand loyalty has a positive and indirect effect with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and knowing the third party has a positive and indirect effect on brand loyalty intentions with a mediator role of customer satisfaction. Extended Abstract Introduction Brand loyalty can be the driving force behind sales growth. Every consumer has an inner feeling towards a brand that draws him to that brand. Factors such as low price and reliable services are no longer effective in dealing with loyalty (Ghasemiyan Shagerdi et al, 2018). On the other hand, the emerging phenomenon of collaborative platforms has been widely welcomed globally in the last decade, and has had an increasing impact on the global economy. Considering the increasing growth of these platforms, investigating the factors affecting their growth in knowing and better understanding the performance of these platforms as a new form of enterprises is of great importance scientifically and for business owners in this field (Jafari Nezhad, 2018). In Iran, in recent years, platforms for the sale of second-hand goods, such as Divar and Sheipuor, have grown and taken a large share of the non-oil economy, so that the sellers and buyers on these platforms can even buy the goods of well-known brands at a reasonable price but in the form of used goods. This factor has enabled many of these goods to be used again in the cycle of use for other strata of the society. For a long time, second-hand goods were thought to be a threat to brands and the equipment market in general because they deprive the brands of their transaction volume. However, the benefit they gain in terms of image value is undeniable (Dessart et al, 2015). According to the mentioned materials, the main problem of the research is that the characteristics of the second-hand goods platforms have a significant effect on the intention of loyalty to the brand, emphasizing the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Theoretical framework Ease of use refers to the customer's perception that using a system will not require effort (Devis et al, 1989). It has been widely shown that ease of use is an important component of technology acceptance models and has a positive effect on behavioral intentions. It has been shown that this component is the behavioral and attitudinal intentions of people towards the system (Zimaneski & Haisi, 2000; Liyakono et al, 2002; Gafan et al, 2003), their satisfaction (Devis et al, 1989), their future intentions to reuse a technological system or tool (Liyakono et al, 2002; Venkatash & Deivis, 2000), and explains their loyalty to the website (Kim & Nim, 2009). Perceived usefulness refers to the extent to which a person believes that using a tool will improve their performance. It is thought that it is very important for the customer to use a technology (Venkatash & Deivis, 2000). Entertainment is the user's emotional response to the platform (Layokuno et al, 2002), and includes components such as visual appeal, innovations, visual content and web design (Kim & Stoll, 2004). Entertainment is highly dependent on website design and its ergonomics, which are important factors in explaining e-satisfaction and lead to e-loyalty (Wolfinbarger & Gili, 2003). Third party recognition is a type of certification or recognition by a trusted organization or person (Jefen et al, 2003). Lobel Trong ThuyTran et al, (2021) discussed in their article titled E-commerce Platforms Effectiveness Management in a pandemic. This study showed that pandemic fear positively moderates the relationships between e-commerce platforms, economic benefits, and sustainable consumption. Liu et al, (2021) in their article titled Psychological distance from environmental pollution and willingness to participate in second-hand online transactions examined an empirical survey in China. The results show that the effect of consumers' psychological distance from environmental pollution on their willingness to participate in second-hand online transactions is greater than that of a loss frame. This suggests that the expected positive outcome of participating in second-hand online transactions leads to higher childbearing intentions than the unanticipated negative outcome of engaging in such transactions. Research methodology The current research is a developmental and applicable type of research in terms of its purpose, and descriptive-correlative in terms of research method. The statistical population of the present study is the sellers of second-hand goods on the platforms of Sheipour and Divar. Due to the large number of users, the researcher will consider only the number of sellers in Tehran in these two platforms. And according to the large number of the community, the number of 5 thousand people has been considered as the research community. Based on Morgan's table, 357 people will be selected as a sample in this research. The sampling method in this research will be simple random. In order to collect the data of the research variables, a questionnaire (Intissar Abbes et al, 2020) was used, which includes 36 questions, and the components include ease of use (EOU) four questions, perceived usefulness (PUSE) six questions, third party recognition (TPR) three questions, seller credibility (SR) three questions, sense of community belonging four questions, fun four questions, customer satisfaction (SAT) four questions, platform loyalty intentions (PLI) four questions, brand loyalty intentions (BLI) four questions; and it was analyzed based on the 5-factor Likert scale. Research findings SPSS and PLS software were used to investigate the research hypothesis and data analysis, and the results showed that ease of use has a positive and indirect effect on brand loyalty intention with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Perceived usefulness has a positive and indirect effect on intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the entertainment aspect has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the sense of belonging to a community for that community has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the credibility of the seller has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the recognition of a third party has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of the characteristics of second-hand goods platforms on brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction (the case study of Divar and Shipour platform in Iran). The results of this research are consistent with the findings of Abbes et al, (2020), Ghasemiyan et al, (2018), Saeid Niya et al, (2016), Abdolali Pour, (2020). Abdolali Pour, (2020) discussed the role of collaborative online distribution platforms and brand loyalty in his research. The purpose of this research is to identify the effects of collaborative online distribution platforms and to review the effect of their internal and external characteristics on brand loyalty. The results show that the most important factor influencing the success of online brands is the frequent interaction of users with the brand, because of a positive consumption experience of that online brand. Abbes et al, (2020) discussed the role of collaborative online redistribution platforms in the purchase of second-hand goods and brand loyalty in their research. The purpose of this research is to identify the effects of collaborative redistribution platforms for brands and to know the effect of their internal and external characteristics on behavioral intentions. A quantitative study was conducted among 214 people who had previously bought used goods online. The results show that loyalty intentions to collaborative redistribution platforms have an effect on brand loyalty intentions. Platform loyalty intentions play a mediating role in the effect of service experience satisfaction on platforms on brand loyalty intentions. According to the present research, it is suggested that a section be placed on the platform to compare the products of different brands and to ensure the correctness of the information provided about the quality of the brands on the platform through verification and presentation of visual reports for customers, and a section of the platform page should be placed for customer suggestions specific to each brand and online response to them, and a section should be placed on the platform to record customer complaints about the brand.  

Investigating the perceived quality of electronic banking services and its relationship with the satisfaction of customers of Tejarat Bank of Mazandaran province

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2022, Pages 78-92

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2022.345328.1025

Samane behrozi

Abstract Abstract The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the perceived quality of electronic banking services and its relationship with the customers' satisfaction of Tejarat Bank of Mazandaran province. This research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-correlative in terms of data collection method. The statistical population of this research was all the customers of Tejarat Bank in Mazandaran province. Considering that the statistical population of the present study is unlimited, the sample size of the study was 384 people based on Morgan's table. In this research, 384 questionnaires were distributed among customers by available sampling method. Structural equations and Lisrel were used in data analysis. The findings of the research indicate that the perceived electronic service quality of electronic banking has a relationship with customer satisfaction with an impact factor of 0.67. Ultimately, it can be said that the dimensions of the perceived electronic service quality of electronic banking according to the strength of the relationship with Customer satisfaction includes: physicality, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. Extended Abstract Introduction The advent of the Internet has created easy access and relatively cost-effective communication between companies and customers, and has provided an opportunity to use information technology to support customer service (Sharma & Sharma, 2021). The quality of services provided on websites leads to an increase in the level of customer satisfaction and consequently leads to customer trust and loyalty (Ebrahimzadeh Ganji et al, 2016). The concept of e-services has been increasingly considered by researchers and practitioners as one of the key determinants in e-commerce (Akhtarian, 2019). Banks play a decisive role in the administration of countries and are considered as one of the most important tools for the growth and development of countries. By attracting liquidity and granting facilities, banks can play an effective role in economic growth and development. Economists have different opinions about the importance of banks in economic development (Suseno & Muthohar, 2018). The customer is one of the key topics in the development of the banking industry. The customer is the motivating factor of the dynamics and stimulation of the banking system, and customers are very important as the axis of the banking system and the driving force of institutions active in this industry (Aisyah, 2018). Many researchers have emphasized the importance of customers, and banks have also realized that they depend on their customers to a large extent (Bahrinizadeh et al, 2018). Customer satisfaction is an important factor in helping banks to maintain their competitive advantage, and its increase is a significant achievement in the new banking system in the world (Sadiq & Adil, 2021). According to the mentioned materials, the main problem of the research is whether there is a significant relationship between the quality of electronic banking and the satisfaction of the customers of Tejarat Bank of Mazandaran province.   Theoretical framework Service quality is defined as "the difference between the expectations of customers before using the organization's services and the image they have about the services received". The meaning of the understanding of service quality is the consumer's perception of the desired services of a company. Service quality can be defined as the general attitude or judgment of customers about the services received (Yu et al, 2019). Customer satisfaction is achieved when the company's performance can meet the customer's expectations. If the performance is less than the expectations, the customer will be dissatisfied; and if it is equal to the expectations, he will be satisfied (Hassanzadeh, 2019). If the performance exceeds expectations, he will be very happy and cheerful. The success of all organizations and institutions, whether production or service, profit or non-profit, governmental or non-governmental, is influenced by several factors, one of the most important of which is customer satisfaction in order to achieve excellence in business (Teimouri & Goodarzvand Chegini, 2018). Gogo & Jyoti (2020) in their research investigated how the quality of electronic services affects the satisfaction and loyalty of customers in the tourism industry. They came to the conclusion that the understanding of services causes a kind of satisfaction in people, which leads to commitment and loyalty in customers. Veloso et al. (2020) in their research on online retail sales in Portugal concluded that the level of customer service quality perception in online business has a positive effect on their attitudinal loyalty and will stabilize their overall loyalty. Research methodology The current research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive in terms of data analysis of correlation type (structural equation modeling). The statistical population of this research was all the customers of Tejarat Bank in Mazandaran province. Considering that the statistical population of the present study is unlimited, the sample size of the study was 384 people based on Morgan's table. In this research, 384 questionnaires were distributed among customers using available sampling method. In order to collect data, the standard questionnaire of perceived quality of electronic services was used by Parasuraman et al. (2005). This questionnaire included 21 items and five components: physicality, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. Customer satisfaction variable was analyzed based on Chen (2005) standard questionnaire. This variable included 4 items and was used based on a 5-point Likert scale (completely agree to completely disagree).   Research findings In order to investigate the research hypothesis and analyze the information, structural equations and Lisrel were used, and the results showed that the perceived quality of electronic services from electronic banking had a relationship with customer satisfaction with an impact factor of 0.67. Ultimately, it can be said that the dimensions of electronic service quality perceived from electronic banking according to the strength of relationship with customer satisfaction are: physicality, reliability, responsiveness, guarantee and empathy. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the perceived quality of electronic banking services and its relationship with the satisfaction of customers of Tejarat Bank of Mazandaran province. The results of this research are consistent with the findings of Veloso et al. (2020), Khodadad Hosseini et al. (2019), Hooshmandi et al, (2020), and Seyed Alipour (2018); as long as bank transactions are highly secure, customers trust the bank more easily and this will make them satisfied with using the services of this bank (Shared, 2019). At the same time, when the privacy of the customers is well protected in the bank and the customers are sure that the bank will not misuse their personal information, the customers will communicate better with the bank and their satisfaction levels will increase subsequently (Akhtarian, 2019). ). The level of security of using banking services is high and customers will use the services of this bank better and more often. On the other hand, the bank provides clear explanations of the security of its customers' information (Egala et al, 2021). According to the present research, it is suggested that the loyal customers of the bank who have significant and large financial transactions should be identified and while rewarding them, these activities should be publicized in the media in order to encourage customers to commit more to the bank. Bank managers should make a continuous effort to improve the personality and image of the bank's brand name by using various measures such as positive social activities for the benefit of the society. One of the ways to improve customer satisfaction can be mentioned giving importance to customer complaints. Most of the customers do not bother to complain and sometimes even the inappropriate behavior and threat of the employee does not allow them to protest and they continue on their way. Therefore, the bank should make plans and measures to find the cause of dissatisfaction and also to solve the identified problems.  

A structural model of the role of brand love in the impact of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction

Volume 1, Issue 1, Autumn 2021, Pages 101-118

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2022.313113.1000

peyman Deylami Moezzi

Abstract Extended Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to provide a structural model of the role of brand love in the impact of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction. This research is applicable in terms of purpose, and survey in terms of collection method. The statistical population of the study consisted of customers of Kaleh Company in Mazandaran and Gilan provinces. The sample size of the research was determined based on Cochran's formula of 384 people and the available sampling method was used., standard questionnaires of marketing motivations of Hassanzadeh and Rezvani (2016), customer satisfaction of Garmels and Guiner (2000) and love of brand of Chow and Fiore (2015) were used to collect data. In order to analyze the data, the structural equation technique with Lisrel statistical software and Spss software were used. The research findings showed that the components of marketing stimuli were product stimulus, pricing stimulus, distribution stimulus and promotion stimulus, and respectively had the greatest effect on customer satisfaction. The results showed that marketing incentives affect customer satisfaction directly and indirectly. Love for the brand has a mediating role in the effect of marketing incentive elements on customer satisfaction.
Introduction
Brands play a pivotal role in consumer behavior, and making strong relationships between customers and their chosen brands has a tremendous impact on customer behavior and brand preference. Creating such strong relationships at times leads to the formation of deep emotional bonds and ultimately love toward the brand. Creating and strengthening strong emotional bonds turns customers into staunch advocates for the brand, resulting in huge investment capital for the company (Hajibabaei & Esmailpur, 2019). Nowadays, the successful companies try more than ever to take a step toward the improvement of the stable competitive advantage . The first and foremost function of competitive advantage is to ensure the survival of the organization. When an organization ensures its survival by relying on competitive advantage, then it can follow the path of success to growth (Ermaya & Wibowo, 2020). Analyzing the behavior of buyers and customers in the marketing process is a key point in developing marketing strategies. In the process of analyzing customer behavior, marketing professionals focus on the customer decision process. The important part of this mental process is related to the external and internal stimuli of the person (or internal and external incentive). The most important external incentives are advertising and other promotional methods such as discounts and price changes that have been developed in the strategic marketing plan. Measuring these motivators for marketing professionals plays a helpful role in evaluating the effectiveness of marketing strategies (Sakifard & etal, 2019). Such motivators form the intention of buying to the customer; and if it continues, it will lead to customer satisfaction (Kootenaie & Kootenaie, 2021). Examining different dimensions of consumer behavior can help researchers to identify the reasons why customers want to buy. One of the elements that affect customer satisfaction and re-purchase intention is love for a particular brand. Robert (2005) states that brand love expresses the strongest emotional bond between the consumer and the brand (Rezaei Hajiabadi & etal, 2021). Brand love can act as a stimulus for consumers to develop and maintain close relationships with companies. Marketing has used love as a structure that shows consumers' strong emotional attachments to the love of objects, whether a brand or a product or a service (Cossío-Silva & etal, 2016). This research seeks to design a model that establishes a relationship between marketing incentives available to Kaleh Company and brand love with customer satisfaction (and ultimately the consequence for Kaleh Company is to increase competitiveness and create a strong brand). Therefore, in this study, the effect of marketing stimuli and brand love on customer satisfaction has been investigated. In this study, an attempt is made to answer the question that if marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction with the mediating role of brand love in the branches of Kaleh Company in Mazandaran and Gilan provinces have a significant impact.
Theoretical literature
Brand love is the degree of emotional attachment that a satisfied customer has to a particular brand. In the other word, when a brand acts in such a way that is able to satisfy the real and tangible needs of the other party, it can be interpreted as love and thus the concept of brand love gradually entered consumer research (Palusuk & etal, 2019).
Marketing incentives are a set of marketing activities that companies do to meet the needs of their target markets as best as possible (Chang & etal, 2019). After selecting a target market, marketing managers must develop a systematic plan for selling to customers and building long-term relationships (Li, 2020).
Researchers consider customer satisfaction to be a psychological feeling that results from comparing the product specifications received with the needs and wants of customers and the social expectations regarding the product. According to the definitions in explaining satisfaction, three conditions are necessary: ​​First, expectations must be formed. The formation of evaluations is the second condition, and the third condition is that expectations and evaluations allow direct comparisons to be made (mirzaee Azandariani & Arya, 2020).
Song & Kim (2022) conducted a study entitled The Impact of Social Media Marketing on the Value of Luxury Brands: The Dual Impact of Brand Satisfaction and Brand Love on Word of Mouth Loyalty Intentions and Attitudes. The statistical population consisted of e-shop customers in China. The research method was correlative, and the sampling method was voluntary. The results showed that social media marketing on the value of luxury brands and brand satisfaction and brand love have a significant effect on word of mouth loyalty intentions and attitudes.
Choi & et al (2022) conducted a study entitled The Impact of Customer-Based Company Reputation on Customer Interaction Behaviors: Customer Satisfaction and Brand Love as Intermediaries and Industry as Modifier. The statistical population of customers was service companies in Tokyo. The research method was descriptive-survey, and sampling method was random simple. The results showed that company reputation, customer satisfaction and brand love had a significant effect on customer interaction behaviors and the type of industry had a moderating role in this regard.
Pallikkara & et al, (2021), conducted a study entitled: The Impact of Marketing Incentives on Repurchase Intent; The Mediating Role of Customer Satisfaction. The statistical population was the customers of UK banks. The research method was descriptive-correlative and the sampling method was random simple. The results showed that marketing stimuli of customer satisfaction have a positive and significant effect on the intention to repurchase.
Methodology
The research method is descriptive-correlational in nature, and applied in terms of purpose. The statistical population of the study consisted of customers of Kaleh Company in Mazandaran and Gilan provinces. The sample size of the research was determined based on Cochran's formula of 384 people and the available sampling method was used. For data collection, standard questionnaires of marketing stimuli (Hassanzadeh & Rezvani, 2016), customer satisfaction (Gremler & Gwinner, 2000) and brand love (Cho& Fiore, 2015) were used.
Discussion and Results
The results of the first hypothesis showed that the effect of marketing stimuli on brand love was equal to (0.69) which shows that the correlation is favorable. The t-test of the test was obtained (7.67) which is more than the critical value of t at the level of 5% error; (1.96) and shows that the observed correlation is significant. The results of the second hypothesis showed that the effect of brand love on customer satisfaction was calculated equal to (0.76), which shows that the correlation is favorable. The t-test of the test was obtained (8.72) which is more than the critical value of t at the level of 5% error; (1.96) and shows that the observed correlation is significant. The results of the third hypothesis showed that the effect of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction is equal to (0.42) which shows that the correlation is favorable. The t-test of the test was obtained (5.40) which is more than the critical value of t at the error level of 5%; (1.96) and shows that the observed correlation is significant. The results of the fourth hypothesis showed that the power of direct effect of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction is equal to (0.42). Indirect effect of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction is calculated equal to (0.52) provided that there is a mediating variable of brand love. Due to the fact that the effect of direct path is less than indirect paths, therefore, the existence of the mediator variable of love for the brand increases the power of influence and the mediating role of the variable of love for the brand is confirmed in the present hypothesis.
Conclusion
The power of the effect of marketing stimuli on brand love is calculated equal to (0.69) which shows that the correlation is favorable. Therefore, paying attention to the brand and increasing its value by Kaleh Company plays an important role in improving branding and brand love. Love and affection for the brand is one of the components that can lead to attracting more customers for the company. The more the customer's love and interest in the brand, the more loyalty to the brand and the more word of mouth advertising at the end. The use of promotional incentives to increase customer information and even advertising in bringing the brand closer to the interests of the consumers has a significant impact. These results are consistent with the findings of (Bauer & etal, 2020) and (Hajibabaei & Esmailpur, 2019).
The strength of the effect of brand love on customer satisfaction is calculated to be equal to (0.76), which indicates that the correlation is favorable. Carroll & Ahuvia (2006) and Unal & Aydin (2013) in their research concluded that the more customer love for the brand, the more verbal advertising customers about the brand (Khalighi, 2020). This means that love for the brand will encourage the customer and will lead to their satisfaction. Such a level of satisfaction will create loyalty in them. These results are consistent with the findings of Song & Kim (2022) and Choi & et al (2022).
The effect of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction is calculated to be equal to (0.42), which indicates that the correlation is favorable. Providing the best possible value to customers is undoubtedly vital for Kaleh Company in the current competitive market. As long as the company offers quality products to customers, customers are satisfied with receiving such products and this customer satisfaction leads to their commitment to purchase services (Chang & et al, 2019). On the other hand, improving the quality of products and paying attention to customer tastes is another important marketing stimulus that plays an important role in improving customer satisfaction. These results are consistent with the findings of Sheikhesmaeili & et al (2021) and Pallikkara & et al (2021).
The indirect effect of marketing stimuli on customer satisfaction in the presence of the mediating variable of brand love is equal to (0.52). Marketing incentives motivate customers to reuse products, and this directly and indirectly leads to customer satisfaction (Fahimi, 2020). This can be examined from different angles. When Kaleh Company tries to introduce its products to its customers based on its promotional advertisements or when it uses pricing strategies to acquire and maintain its market, it tries to design its marketing stimuli in such a way that customers fall in love with this brand. Matching the company's products and services with customers' tastes will create pleasure and two-way communication between the brand and the customer. These results are consistent with the findings of Shafieih (2018) and Aghajani (2020).
In this regard, it is suggested that the marketing managers of Kaleh Company can create a better association in the customer's mind by using a better image, scent, sound and symbol. In this regard, reference groups can be used to increase brand love. Providing more and more up-to-date services can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty as much as possible. By identifying the customer's wishes, aspirations, ideals and dreams and fulfilling them, the customer's interest in Kaleh Company can be increased. Responding quickly to customer requests and listening to their conversations can make them feel important and Increase their interest in the company. The use of nostalgia can evoke positive memories and increase the realization of the customer's love for the brand. To ensure that customers are in constant contact with them, company managers must adopt clear policies and procedures.