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Journal of  value creating in Business Management(JVCBM),(former title - business management and entrepreneurship) is an open access double-blind peer reviewed publication which is published by Research Center of Resource Management Studies and Knowledge-Based Business  concerned with new concepts in "Business administration, business management،value creating, and entrepreneurship".  JVCBM is a quarterly publication, which publishes original research papers related to journal scope. This journal is following of Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and complies with the highest ethical standards in accordance with ethical laws. All submitted manuscripts are checked for similarity through Hamyab software to ensure their authenticity to be assured about its originality and then rigorously peer-reviewed by the expert reviewers. This publication is based on the license registration number 88877 dated. 2021-10-11 of the Press Department of Interior, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance published.  (Read More...)

              

 

Original Article (Qualitative) Entrepreneurship

Designing a strategic e-business model based on effectiveness outcomes for value creation

Pages 1-20

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.503472.1496

Marsha Zarbazoo, Leila Andervazh, Bita Tabriziyan

Abstract Abstract This study aims to design an e-business strategic model based on effectiveness outcomes in line with value creation. This study is fundamental in terms of its objective, descriptive-analytical in terms of nature, and based on a qualitative approach to data-based theorizing in terms of its method. The tools used in this study were interviews and a statistical sample consisting of 15 academic experts and e-business managers. The sampling method in this study was theoretical, which continued from in-depth interviews with experts until theoretical saturation. In the analysis process; open, axial, and selective coding were used, and the content of related reports and interviews was analyzed using MAXQDA software, and 81 open codes (concepts) and 16 subcategories were obtained. The results of data analysis showed that causal conditions consists of 3 subcategories (Planning and evaluation, market needs assessment, and customers' online shopping experience), contextual conditions consists of 3 subcategories (technical requirements, electronic maturity, and e-commerce infrastructures), intervening conditions consists of 3 subcategories (specific characteristics of each business, government policies, and facilitators), pivotal conditions consists of 3 subcategories (characteristics of distribution of goods and services, characteristics of exchange of goods and services, and characteristics of communication between buyer and seller), strategies consists of 2 subcategories (economic strategies of business, and marketing and sales strategy), and the main category of consequences consists of 2 subcategories (effectiveness consequences for business, and effectiveness consequences for customers). Introduction Rapid developments in information and communication technology have transformed the business environment and provided unprecedented opportunities for the development of electronic businesses. These changes have enhanced value creation for organizations and customers by providing access to broader markets, improving processes, and providing innovative services. E-business goes beyond online buying and selling, and includes process integration, internal and external communications, and effective stakeholder engagement that is value-creating through transparency, efficiency, and strengthening relationships. Success in this area requires adapting to changes and designing strategic models that maximize effectiveness and anticipate customer needs. Value creation in e-business is achieved by improving customer experience, reducing costs, accessing global markets, and optimizing processes. Data analysis to understand customer behavior and provide personalized services creates competitive advantage. However, there are challenges such as intense competition, market changes, and gaining customer trust. Effectiveness, as a pillar of value creation, creates mutual value for the organization and customers by increasing revenue, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. Technologies such as artificial intelligence enhance this value by responding to needs more quickly. This research, with a qualitative data-driven approach, presents a strategic model that integrates causal, contextual, intervening conditions, strategies, and outcomes of effectiveness. Unlike previous studies that focused on technical or marketing aspects, this study fills the gap in the comprehensive analysis of value creation and answers the question: How can a strategic model for e-business be designed that ensures value creation for businesses and customers? Theoretical Framework Effectiveness and Value Creation of E-Business Effectiveness of e-business is multifaceted and affects different aspects of business operations. This effectiveness is achieved by reducing communication costs, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening relationships with customers and suppliers (Pustovit, 2023). E-commerce platforms create economic advantage and contribute to sustainable consumption by providing user-friendly and reliable services (Jalali, 2021). Optimal inventory and supply chain management reduces costs and increases the agility of the organization in the competition (Sharma, 2024). E-commerce facilitates information exchange and improves collaboration between buyers and suppliers (Moharana et al., 2017). In a dynamic business environment, continuous value creation for customers and companies is essential (Zhong & Chen, 2023). Digital marketing strategies, such as eye-tracking technology-based advertising, increase value at the market, company, and customer levels by enhancing brand awareness (Mirmotahari et al., 2025). Company value is measured through metrics such as customer lifetime value, customer referrals, and customer feedback (Singh et al., 2023). E-businesses, by accessing global markets, smooth competition for small and large companies and help business sustainability and growth by improving supply chains (Pustovit, 2023). Ethical marketing and strengthening brand identity on digital platforms increase customer loyalty and repurchase intention and create sustainable value (Rezaeian & Asgari, 2021). Effective e-business models lead to value creation by identifying customer needs and emphasizing innovation. These models improve customer experience and market share by strengthening brand equity (Rezaeian & Asgari, 2021). Optimizing processes and reducing costs through these models creates more value for customers and businesses (Sugiharo, 2024). Information technology enhances value creation by improving decision-making and process efficiency (Hosseini et al., 2020). Value co-creation between businesses and customers through digital platforms creates added value and contributes to business sustainability (Molaei et al., 2023). Research Method This fundamental research with a qualitative approach based on grounded theory is classified as a non-experimental study and examines e-business. The target population consisted of two groups of theoretical experts (university professors with relevant articles in the field of e-business) and industry experts (managers with at least 10 years of experience in this field). Theoretical sampling continued by conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews until theoretical saturation achieved with 15 interviews. The grounded method was used to collect and analyze data. The data were analyzed with open, axial, and selective coding; and concepts were extracted, integrated, and categorized into larger categories to form a paradigmatic research model. Research Findings In this research, the coding of interview data was carried out with the grounded method in three stages: open, axial, and selective coding. In open coding, interviews with 15 experts were analyzed, and 81 open codes and 16 subcategories were identified. In axial coding, the categories were linked with Strauss and Corbin's tool: causal conditions including planning, market needs assessment and shopping experience; contextual conditions including technical requirements, e-maturity and e-commerce infrastructure; intervening conditions including business characteristics, government policies and facilitators; focal category including distribution, exchange and buyer-seller relationship characteristics; strategies including economic and marketing strategies; and outcomes including effectiveness for business and customers. In selective coding, the categories were integrated and e-business indicators were presented based on effectiveness outcomes. Conclusion The present study, using a data-based approach and its analysis with MAXQDA software, presents a strategic model for the success of e-businesses based on the interaction of the following factors: Causal conditions; including planning, market needs assessment and online shopping experience, ensure success by optimizing resources, aligning with demand and strengthening loyalty (in line with Norouzi et al., 2023; Malihi & Hassanbeygi, 2024; Hosseini et al., 2020). Contextual conditions; such as technical requirements, electronic maturity and infrastructure, provide a platform for sustainable operations (in line with Norouzi et al., 2023; Kanishchenko & Kuznetsova, 2020; Hosseini et al., 2020). Intervening conditions including government policy, business characteristics and facilitators (trust building) drive development (consistent with Kanishchenko & Kuznetsova, 2020; Almasi et al., 2024; Molaei et al., 2023). The central category focuses on optimal distribution and effective buyer-seller communication, which reduces costs and strengthens trust (consistent with Nourbakhsh, 2021; Malihi & Hassanbeygi, 2024; Molaei et al., 2023). Strategies including economic and marketing strategies promote growth and sales (consistent with Sanayeie & Sobhani, 2018; Sugiharto, 2024; Nourbakhsh, 2021). The outcomes include business effectiveness (revenue, efficiency) and customer satisfaction (consistent with Nourbakhsh, 2021; Almasi et al., 2024; Malihi & Hassanbeygi, 2024). According to the research results, the following suggestions are made: Digital user experience with smart tools, strengthening technological infrastructure and e-maturity with artificial intelligence, synergy with government policies, development of data-driven digital marketing, innovation in smart distribution and logistics, strengthening customer communication channels and establishing performance monitoring systems. Integrated implementation of these solutions ensures value creation and efficiency (consistent with Norouzi et al., 2023; Malihi & Hassanbeygi, 2024).

Original Article (Qualitative) Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Identifying the dimensions of customer misconduct and its costs in the banking industry

Pages 21-49

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.555441.1657

Kaveh Raoufi masouleh, Kambiz Heidarzadeh Hanzaei, Mohamad Ali Abdolvand, Seyed Hesam Seyedin

Abstract Abstract The aim of this study is to identify the dimensions of customer misbehavior and its costs in the banking industry. The research method is applicable with a phenomenological approach in terms of its purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation method. The statistical population of the study includes 21 bank frontline employees in Tehran. The sample size was carried out with a purposive sampling method and the interviews continued until theoretical saturation. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. Coding and content analysis method using Maxqda software were used to analyze the data. The research findings include four overarching themes and eleven organizing themes. The theme of customer misbehavior consists of two sub-themes of non-communicational misbehavior and communicational misbehavior, and the costs of misbehavior include three overarching themes: supervisor response, short-term response, and long-term response of employees. Short-term response consists of two sub-themes of physiological and behavioral response and emotional response; the supervisor's response consists of two themes: punitive response and supportive response towards employees; and long-term responses consist of five sub-themes: individual success analysis, personality analysis, emotional analysis, intention to leave the job, and job stress. The coding validation and research findings were supported by positive feedback from participants. Therefore, customer misbehavior imposes costs on banks and involves service employees in various harms and unproductive behaviors. Introduction Service companies predominantly adopt customer-oriented service philosophies. In the service industry based on these philosophies, the role of customer-contact employees who provide the main service has been emphasized; however, these employees are exposed to a variety of stresses arising from unpredictable situations (Hwang et al., 2021). While misbehavior does occur, insights based on employee management view employees as responsible for a set of misbehaviors aimed at disrupting transactional and organizational activities, while the organization and employees are the victims of such events. This focus is in stark contrast to customer-focused research that highlights deviant customer activities. Such studies show that customers routinely misbehave during transactions (Harris & Daunt, 2013). The service encounter is the point at which customers and employees interact, and these interactions can be positive or negative. The popular belief that “the customer is always right” is flawed because customers often engage in unfair behaviors that reveal the darker side of marketing. Service sectors such as restaurants, banks, airlines, theme parks, and hotels require frequent customer-employee interactions (Nawaz & Khan, 2024). Service management researchers and practitioners emphasize the importance of supporting employees who interact socially with customers. Although social support is vital for everyone in any organization, it is even more beneficial for customer-facing employees in the service industry, as they act as “front-line workers” and strive to meet both organizational and customer expectations simultaneously. Although a large number of studies related to social support have provided evidence of a negative effect, the function of social support in moderating these adverse effects remains controversial (Hwang et al., 2021). Consumer misconduct remains a vast area of ​​investigation and study. In other words, while it is widely accepted that consumer misconduct is a pervasive and potentially damaging phenomenon that can negatively impact the customer experience and that controlling such behavior is crucial, it is understudied and its aspects are still hidden. Given the simultaneous importance of external customers (service recipients) and internal customers (service provider human resources), it is essential for organizations and the adoption of an appropriate customer-centric strategy to identify the costs of customer misconduct in banks so that bank management can understand the consequences of customer misconduct and plan to control customer behavior and reduce its negative consequences on the organization's human resources. Therefore, the main research question is: What are the dimensions of customer misconduct and its costs in the banking industry? Theoretical Framework Customer Deviant Behaviors Inappropriate consumer behavior is often a dark and negative aspect such as theft, queue jumping, vandalism, frivolous complaints, fraudulent behavior, verbal and physical abuse of employees and other customers, and misuse of company resources. People who exhibit such behavior are called "G customers", problem customers, and ineffective customers, and the behavior they exhibit is called deviance (Xiao et al., 2022). Motives for Customer Misbehavior Previous research has shown that customers have different motivations for engaging in misconduct. Some individuals engage in vandalism and others engage in abuse, such as teenagers or young adults. Most of these deviant behaviors may be infrequent, but nearly all consumers engage in some form of deviant behavior, and thus consumer misconduct is often overlooked and severely underreported in crime statistics (Dootson et al., 2017). Employee Emotional Exhaustion Emotional exhaustion refers to “a feeling of emotional overextension and a depletion of one’s emotional resources.” The World Health Organization has included burnout as an occupational phenomenon in the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases. In this classification, burnout is considered a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. This syndrome is characterized by three dimensions: (1) a feeling of reduced energy or exhaustion, (2) an increase in mental distance from work, or a feeling of negativity or pessimism related to work, and (3) a decrease in professional performance (Gaspar et al., 2024). Bay & Arvand (2024) investigated the effect of customer mistreatment on the helping behaviors of sports club employees with the mediating role of job self-efficacy. It shows the negative effect of customer mistreatment on the job self-efficacy of employees. Also, customer mistreatment leads to a negative effect on the helping behaviors of employees. On the other hand, the indirect effect of job self-efficacy is significant in the relationship between customer mistreatment on the helping behaviors of employees. Zhao et al. (2024) in examining the effect of customer misbehavior on work-family conflict and employee withdrawal behaviors, indicates the effect of customer misbehavior on work-family conflict and withdrawal behaviors, which supports the mediating role of rumination and moderates peer support processes. Research Methodology The research method is applicable with a phenomenological approach in terms of its purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation method. The statistical population of the research includes 21 bank front-line employees in Tehran. The sample size was determined using purposive sampling and the interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. Research Findings Coding and thematic analysis method using Maxqda software were used to analyze the data. The research findings include four overarching themes and eleven organizing themes. The theme of customer mistreatment consists of two sub-themes of non-communicational mistreatment and communicational mistreatment, and the costs of mistreatment include three overarching themes: supervisor response, short-term response, and long-term employee response. Short-term response consists of two sub-themes of physiological and behavioral response, and emotional response; supervisor response consists of two themes of punitive response and supportive response toward employees, and long-term responses consist of five sub-themes: individual success analysis, personality analysis, emotional analysis, intention to leave, and job stress. The validation of coding and research findings was supported by positive feedback from participants. Therefore, customer mistreatment imposes costs on banks and involves service employees in various harms and unproductive behaviors. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of designing a model of customer mistreatment and apology in the banking services industry. The results of this study are consistent with the research of Bay & Arvand (2024), Zhao et al. (2024), Nawaz & Khan (2023), Gillison et al. (2023), Jalili et al. (2023), Sharafi & Shahoseini (2023), Salari (2020), Xiao et al. (2022), Hwang et al. (2023), and Bhattacharjee & Purohit (2023). Gillison et al (2023) showed that the perceived frequency of customer violations, concerns about customer mistreatment, and concerns about enforcing rules with these customers increase employee burnout. Customer-induced burnout reduces organizational commitment and increases turnover intention. According to the results of this study, the following suggestion is made: Since perceived supervisor support can reduce employees' negative feelings caused by customer misbehavior, managers should understand and use the importance of supervisor support and take positive and effective measures to strengthen employees' perceived supervisor support. On the other hand, bank frontline employees are suggested to practice and focus on the ability to effectively cope and resolve the pressure caused by customer misbehavior and the negative emotional effects caused by it.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Providing an exploratory model of customer experience of financial technology services in the industry

Pages 50-68

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.578782.1719

Hamid Shahriyari, Esmaeil Hasan Pour Ghoroghchi, Gholamreza Farsad Aman Elahi

Abstract Abstract The present study was conducted with the aim of identifying and explaining the customer experience model and factors affecting the formation of loyalty in financial technology services in the leasing industry. This research is applicable in terms of purpose, qualitative in terms of method, and was conducted based on data-driven theory with a systematic approach of "Strauss and Corbin". The data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews with 18 experts and active customers of digital leasing platforms and analyzed by a three-stage process of open, axial and selective coding with MAXQDA18 software. The research findings led to the extraction of a paradigmatic model that shows that customer experience is influenced by "causal factors" such as the inefficiency of traditional processes, the need for speed and convenience, and advances in financial technology. In this model, “intervening factors” including the level of digital trust, information security, and quality of technical support; and “contextual factors” such as digital literacy and legal infrastructure, moderate the experience process. The identified strategies include user-centered design, process transparency, and personalization of financial services, which act as the main drivers to achieve the central phenomenon (perceived convenience and security). The consequences of this model are crystallized in two psychological and behavioral dimensions, which include increased loyalty, positive word-of-mouth advertising, improved financial well-being, and gaining competitive advantage for leasing organizations. The results of this research, while filling the theoretical gap in the field of FinTech, provide valuable implementation solutions for managers to design a pleasant and sustainable experience for customers in the digital ecosystem. Introduction In today’s modern world, digital technologies are recognized as one of the most important transformation factors in service industries. The leasing industry is no exception to this rule and has experienced significant changes in its service delivery with technological advances. These developments have created new opportunities to improve customer experience that require careful and scientific examination (Kronheim et al., 2024). The emergence of financial technologies has shifted the boundaries between banking, investment and leasing services and placed customers at the center of these changes. The leasing industry, as one of the vital pillars of financing in modern societies, is forced to embrace technological innovations to maintain survival and competitiveness in this new ecosystem (Hoyer et al., 2020). However, simply deploying technology is not enough; rather, the key to success in this field is a deep understanding and re-creation of the customer experience in the context of modern financial services. (Kronheim et al., 2024) Financial technologies, along with digital leasing, play a key role in facilitating access to financial services and increasing efficiency in this area. These technologies have not only accelerated traditional processes, but also created new and innovative experiences for customers. This doubles the need to pay attention to customers’ opinions and analyze their experiences (Alexander et al., 2024). Customer experience in digital financial services is a multidimensional and complex concept that is not limited to the technical quality of services, but also includes customer perceptions, emotions, trust, and interactions. Therefore, a deep understanding of customer experience in the field of fintech and digital leasing is essential for the success and sustainability of these services (Kronheim et al., 2024). Therefore, given the existing gap and the need to identify the indigenous and specialized components of this industry, the present study was designed to identify and present a comprehensive exploratory model. Using a qualitative approach and data-driven strategy, this study seeks to find out: what does the exploratory model of customer experience of financial technology services in the leasing industry look like? Theoretical foundations Customer experience Customer experience of digital services, as one of the main indicators of the success of organizations, has received more and more attention (Tolooee et al., 2024). This experience is influenced by various factors such as user interface quality, response speed, data security and service personalization. Therefore, identifying and analyzing these factors can help improve services. Since 1960, many concepts have been created about customer experience. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word experience means actual observation or practical familiarity with truth or events. (Kronheim et al., 2024). Financial technology and the leasing industry Due to its vital role in facilitating access to assets, the leasing industry needs to adapt to technological developments and customer needs. However, few studies have examined customer experience of digital leasing services. This highlights the need to design exploratory models to gain a deeper understanding of customer experience. The term fintech refers to companies that, in the existing financial services sector, offer and improve products, processes, or business models based on new technological opportunities with the aim of improving quality for customers who are more familiar with the digital world (Amir Hosseini et al., 2025). Aalami et al. (2026) investigated the factors affecting customer experience in the implementation of Generation 4.0 retail. The research findings showed that technological advancement and value creation have a significant impact on customer experience. Human and organizational factors also play an effective role in the implementation of Generation 4.0 retail. Customer experience, as a key variable, plays a prominent role in improving store performance and strengthening customer relationships. Arabi et al. (2025) investigated the identification of drivers affecting the future of investment in the Iranian Social Security Organization, emphasizing the role of technology. The results showed that 29 drivers were extracted through a literature review and structured interviews with social security experts. In the next step, these drivers were screened through the fuzzy Delphi method. The priority drivers were: drivers of the level of cooperation of the Social Security Organization with technology startups, the level of cooperation of the country's financial institutions and institutions with fintechs, and the development of regtechs. Research Method This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and a data-based theory strategy based on an interpretive paradigm. The required data were collected through 18 in-depth and semi-structured interviews with fintech experts and digital leasing customers selected by a purposeful and snowball method, and the collection process continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted in three stages of open, axial, and selective coding, which ultimately led to the design of a paradigmatic model (including causal, contextual, intervening conditions, strategies, and consequences). To ensure validity and reliability, participant verification techniques and supervision by expert colleagues were applied. Research Findings The research findings showed that the customer experience in digital leasing is shaped by traditional inefficiencies and the need for speed in services and is based on the central phenomenon of “perceived convenience and financial justice.” The results indicate that implementing strategies such as user-centered design and service personalization leads to strategic outcomes such as sustainable loyalty, positive word-of-mouth advertising, and competitive advantage of the organization. Also, variables such as information security and digital trust level as key factors play a vital role in moderating and strengthening this experience. Discussion and Conclusion The results of the study showed that complex bureaucracies, time-consuming paper processes, and lack of transparency in traditional models, as a negative driver, have pushed customers towards modern alternatives. This finding is in line with the view of Homburg et al. (2017) who believe that pain points in the customer journey are the first sparks of behavior change and search for a different experience. The findings indicate that in the era of the digital economy, "speed in validation" and "ease in registering a request" are the most decisive factors in the formation of the initial experience. This result is consistent with the research of Khanzadeh (2024). According to the extracted model, FinTech advancements (such as artificial intelligence in validation and smart contracts) have provided the necessary infrastructure to realize the 4.0 generation customer experience. This finding is consistent with the results of Aalami et al. (2026). Data analysis showed that training is a bridge between technological infrastructure and positive user perception. Since digital financial services may seem complicated to some users, providing educational guides fills the skill gap and strengthens digital trust. This result is consistent with the model of Pangarkar et al. (2022) in the field of social engagement; because effective training conveys a sense of organizational support to the customer and, by reducing ambiguity, lowers perceived risk, which ultimately leads to long-term customer commitment to the brand. The research findings show that technical infrastructure (including platform stability, server speed, and authentication database connectivity) are the main foundation of customer experience. If the digital infrastructure is weak, even the best marketing strategies will fail. This finding is consistent with research of Aalami et al. (2026). The results of the study indicate that the level of skill and knowledge of users in using smart devices strongly affects their perception of “ease of use”. Customers with higher digital literacy have a more enjoyable experience with FinTech platforms, while for users with less knowledge, this process can be anxiety-provoking. This result is consistent with the view of Bonik et al. (2023) that individual user characteristics moderate the impact of experience on loyalty. One of the key findings is that customer experience does not occur in a vacuum, but is strongly influenced by central bank rules, data security, and regulatory frameworks. The existence of transparent rules in the field of landtech and digital leasing provides customer peace of mind. This finding is consistent with the results of Arabi et al. (2025) in the role of regtechs and financial institutions in new investments. Finally, the research showed that the social acceptance and general culture of using offline financial services is the basis for the success of fintech models. The paradigm shift from visiting the branch in person to trusting all-digital processes is a cultural transformation. This result is consistent with the findings of Alexander et al. (2022). Research findings show that digital trust acts as a catalyst. In the leasing industry, which deals with high financial sums and long-term contracts, if trust is not built, even the best and fastest platforms cannot build loyalty. This finding is in line with the research of Ghasemi Naji et al. (2025). Research results indicate that information security is the "red line" of customer experience in fintech. Any ambiguity in how to store sensitive and creditable customer data can negate all previous positive experiences. This result is consistent with the findings of Arabi et al. (2025). Data analysis showed that technical support at critical moments (such as an error in the payment gateway or uploading documents) is the decisive moment for loyalty. High quality support can turn a negative experience into a positive and trust-building memory. This finding is in line with the view of Aalami et al. (2026) about the role of human and organizational factors in realizing the 4.0 generation of retail. The findings of the research indicate that the ease of use, or the simplification of the platform environment, moderates the intensity of the effect of services on loyalty. If the platform is complex, the customer will experience cognitive fatigue and leave the purchase process half-finished. This result is consistent with Khanzadeh (2024) that emphasizes the role of experience quality on repeat purchases.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Modeling Interactive Content Marketing: The Role of Digital Content in Influencing Consumer Buying Decisions in Iraq

Pages 69-92

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.580937.1743

Ahmed Salam Ali nukhailawi, Hosein Rahimi Koluor, Bahman KHodapanah, Mohamad Bashokouh Ajirlou

Abstract Abstract The purpose of the present study is to design an interactive content marketing model with an emphasis on its role in shaping the purchasing decisions of digital consumers in Iraq. In terms of purpose, this research is applicable, and in terms of execution, it is qualitative; the adopted strategy is exploratory, and the method utilized is thematic analysis. The research population consists of 21 faculty members and experts in the field of digital and interactive marketing in Iraq, selected based on purposive sampling and the data saturation technique. The data collection tool is semi-structured in-depth interviews. For data analysis, thematic analysis and MAXQDA software were employed. The findings of the thematic network analysis revealed 6 organizing themes, 14 basic themes, and 58 primary codes as the components and categories of interactive content marketing with an emphasis on its role in shaping digital consumers’ purchasing decisions. The (organizing) themes were presented in 6 dimensions: strategic factors, consumer factors, brand factors, consumer value-creation attitude, content personalization strategy, and responsiveness and feedback. The results indicated that interactive content marketing, as an emerging and effective strategy, plays a significant and influential role in shaping and strengthening the purchasing decisions of digital consumers. Introduction In the current digital age, social networks have become one of the primary hubs for interaction, communication, and information exchange between businesses and consumers (Zamani et al., 2022). These platforms are not only used as a base for marketing and advertising but have fundamentally transformed the nature of marketing communications through their interactive capabilities (Bazi et al., 2020). Meanwhile, the concept of “Interactive Content Marketing” has emerged as a novel and effective strategy, capturing the attention of researchers and marketing professionals. Unlike traditional methods that were largely based on one-way message dissemination, this type of marketing emphasizes creating a two-way dialogue, encouraging active audience participation, and crafting personalized experiences. On the other hand, the consumer purchasing decision process, especially in the digital context, has undergone significant transformations (Lou & Xie, 2021). Today, digital consumers go through complex stages of information searching, option comparison, evaluating other users’ opinions, and interacting with brands in online spaces—particularly social networks—before taking action to buy. This process is not a simple linear sequence but rather a cyclical and dynamic path where the customer moves repeatedly between stages of awareness, consideration, evaluation, and action (Chang et al., 2025). This necessitates a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the formation of these decisions. Despite the increasing importance of interaction in virtual space, few studies have specifically examined the role of “interactive content” in shaping purchasing decisions within the context of developing markets like Iraq (Bianchi & Andrews, 2023). One of the concepts that marketers currently focus on regarding consumer consumption behavior is the creation of pleasant experiences and their impact on consumer behavior. Creating diverse experiences as a vital element in marketing strategies can create value and lead to a competitive advantage (Holliman & Rowley, 2024). The process of online shopping involves purchasing goods directly from the seller without intermediaries, which can be defined as the activity of buying and selling goods via the internet. Online shopping transactions provide customers with a variety of products and services, allowing them to compare these products with those of other intermediaries and select the best option (Daroch et al., 2021). In the Middle East region, and specifically in Iraq, the rapid expansion of internet penetration and smartphone usage has led to the emergence of a massive population of digital consumers who perform a significant portion of their daily activities—including searching for product information, interacting with brands, and shopping—through social networks. The Iraqi market, with its young and tech-savvy population, provides a dynamic environment for studying digital phenomena. Specific socio-cultural characteristics of this market, including the importance of word-of-mouth communication, trust in personal recommendations, and the strong role of family and community in decision-making, have made the potential of social networks and interactive content in influencing consumer behavior highly significant in this country (We Are Social & Hootsuite, 2024). Therefore, the present study seeks to answer the following scientific question: What is the interactive content marketing model with an emphasis on its role in shaping the purchasing decisions of digital consumers in Iraq? Theoretical Framework Interactive Marketing Interactive marketing is an innovative form of marketing in which audiences can engage and communicate with your content. In this approach, a brand provides a relevant and appropriate response based on the specific actions and movements of each customer and audience member. This method allows brands to act more creatively and tell more compelling stories, thereby attracting a larger audience. Unlike outbound marketing methods, interactive marketing creates an environment where customers and the brand can engage in a two-way dialogue (Lufkin, 2024). Zhu et al. (2026) investigated the design of a content marketing process model aimed at strengthening customer purchase intention. The results of this research indicated that to achieve modern marketing based on social media—characterized by two-way interactive dialogues and feedback reception (a many-to-many communication system)—organizations should prioritize these elements in their information dissemination, advertising, and health tourism marketing programs. Ahmadi alinoudehi et al. (2026) analyzed the dimensions and components of digital transformation management based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The results of their study indicated that AI-based digital transformation management is designed within four overarching categories: “contextual requirements,” “digital infrastructure,” “digital transformation management process,” and “organizational capital.” These include 12 organizing categories: “ethical requirements,” “cultural requirements,” “organizational requirements,” “hard digital infrastructure,” “soft digital infrastructure,” “digital transformation management process,” “digital transformation planning,” “prototyping,” “learning,” “human capital,” “process capital,” “structural capital,” and “social capital,” comprising a total of 73 basic categories. Methodology In terms of objective, this research is applicable, and regarding its execution, it is qualitative. The adopted strategy is exploratory, and the chosen method is thematic analysis. The research population consists of 21 faculty members and experts in the field of digital and interactive marketing in Iraq, selected through purposive sampling utilizing the data saturation technique. The data collection instrument employed is semi-structured in-depth interviews. Research Findings Data analysis was conducted through the thematic analysis method and MAXQDA software. The findings from the thematic network analysis identified 6 organizing themes, 14 basic themes, and 58 primary codes as the components and categories of interactive content marketing, emphasizing its role in shaping the purchasing decisions of digital consumers. The organizing themes were categorized into six dimensions: strategic factors, consumer factors, brand factors, consumer value-creation attitude, content personalization strategy, and responsiveness and feedback. The results demonstrated that interactive content marketing, as an emerging and effective strategy, plays a vital and influential role in shaping and reinforcing the purchasing decisions of digital consumers. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of designing an interactive content marketing model, emphasizing its role in shaping the purchasing decisions of digital consumers in Iraq. The results obtained from these findings are consistent with the research of Zhu et al. (2026), Ahmadi Alinoudehi et al. (2026), Jalalzadeh et al. (2025), Abolhasani Abrghan & Dadash Karimi (2025), Bagher Mosavi & Fadai (2024), Shakeri (2024), and Zamani et al. (2022). Notably, Zhu et al. (2026) demonstrated that to achieve modern marketing based on social media—characterized by two-way interactive dialogues and feedback reception (a many-to-many communication system)—organizations must prioritize these elements in their information dissemination, advertising, and health tourism marketing programs. Based on the research results, it is suggested that to reach the optimal state of marketing and customer loyalty, organizations should involve their employees across various fields and departments. The company should supervise and participate in business operations and the mapping of employees’ professional futures, while simultaneously pursuing competitive excellence in its programs.

Original Article (Quantified) Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Presenting a model to examine the formation of habits in purchasing life insurance policies in Iran

Pages 93-108

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.500837.1485

Mohamadali Khamse, Kambiz Peykarjou, Maryam Khalilieraghi

Abstract Abstract The aim of this study is to present a model to investigate habit formation in purchasing life insurance in Iran. The present study is applicable in terms of its purpose, and descriptive in terms of its nature and method. The statistical population of it includes all the activists in the insurance industry in Iran. The method and sample size in determining the appropriate degree of the proposed model was also carried out by the available sampling method with 35 experts. The collection tool in this study includes a researcher-made questionnaire derived from the qualitative method, which includes 4 areas of economic factors, non-economic factors, factors affecting customer withdrawal, and long-term factors affecting life insurance demand. SPSS software was used to analyze the findings, and structural equations and LISREL software were used to fit the model. The research findings showed that the statistical value of the previous year's insurance demand variable was measured significantly, so it can be stated that the hypothesis of habit formation in purchasing life insurance using the conditional variance heteroscedasticity multivariate autoregression approach has a significant effect. In addition, other variables have a direct and significant relationship with life insurance demand. Introduction The three institutions of banks, insurance, and stock exchanges are of particular importance in providing financial resources for investments. The insurance industry is one of the most important pillars of the economic development of countries. By reviewing the contribution of the insurance industry in the economy of developed countries, it can be seen that insurance has a greater and more significant role and importance compared to other services (Babaei, 2020). The role of the insurance industry in financial markets appears in three ways. First, the effect that this industry can exert on other financial markets, which is usually used as a support to reduce investment risk. Its second role is to collect and provide financial resources using insurance operations, and finally, the role of the insurance industry in indirect or direct investment. Direct investment of the insurance industry in the country's economic activities is its most important role. In the role of risk coverage, insurance companies act like a cooperative fund. In other words, they act to pay for the losses incurred from the collected resources. But in the role of financial inputs, insurance acts as a capital supply fund that seeks to maximize profits like an economic enterprise (Haris et al., 2019). For this reason, it is tried to maintain an appropriate combination of insurance types in order to achieve the goals. One type of insurance policy that is significantly attractive in the composition of the insurance sales portfolio is life insurance. In selling life insurance, insurance companies use the funds of policyholders that they have in the form of technical reserves as a profitable asset and invest in appropriate economic activities. The features of this insurance policy such as low loss ratio, long-term commitments, and short-term and continuous resource provision, have made insurance companies advocate this type of insurance, unlike third-party and medical insurance. For this reason, the factors that affect its sales are of interest to insurance companies. In addition to economic variables, these factors also include non-economic ones. In fact, insurance companies are interested in developing their activities in this area by being aware of the decision-making model of life insurance buyers (Moore & Young, 2020(. Studying the effect of each of these factors will play a key role in developing life insurance sales for insurance companies. Recognizing this issue, sellers should think about developing the insurance network by understanding the psychological issues of policyholders as life insurance buyers. The development of the insurance industry, especially life insurance, as mentioned at the beginning, will play a significant role in the economic development of the country. Therefore, the researcher is trying to address the question: what is the appropriate model for examining the formation of the habit of buying life insurance in Iran? Theoretical Framework Life Insurance Insurance is a contract that transfers an imminent risk that may occur to an individual's property, activity, or life to the insurance company in order to compensate for the material loss caused by the risk (Karimi & Zaghian, 2020). Life insurance is one of the most important fields of personal insurance. Legally, life insurance is a contract under which the insurer undertakes, in return for receiving a premium, to pay an amount (capital or annuity) to the policyholder or a third party designated by him in the event of the insured's death or survival at a certain time (Ahmadi et al., 2021). Amari Allahyari et al., (2024) examined the relationships between service quality dimensions and the intention to purchase life insurance policies. The results obtained show that service quality plays a vital role in increasing customer satisfaction and improving organizational performance. The findings show that life insurance representatives with problem-solving and helpfulness skills can increase customers' willingness to purchase life insurance products. This research emphasizes that high service quality is a key competitive advantage in the life insurance market and must be aligned with organizational goals. Li et al., (2021) examined the demand for non-life insurance under habit formation by presenting a dynamic model for the optimal consumption of non-life insurance according to past weighted average consumption. In their study, habit is divided into two types: internal and external. Internal habit is influenced by the discussion of risk aversion, and external habit is influenced by the discussion of false comparison to others and the comparison of different investment options, including stocks. Research Methodology The present study is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive in terms of nature and method. The statistical population of the present study includes all activists in the insurance industry in Iran. The method and sample size in determining the appropriate degree of the proposed model were also carried out as a available sampling method for 35 experts. The collection tool in this study includes a researcher-made questionnaire derived from a qualitative method, which includes 4 areas of economic factors, non-economic factors, factors affecting customer withdrawal, and long-term factors affecting life insurance demand. Research Findings SPSS software was used to analyze the findings and the model was fitted using structural equations and LISREL software. The research findings showed that the statistical value of the previous year's insurance demand variable was significantly measured, so it can be stated that the hypothesis of habit formation in life insurance purchase using the conditional variance heteroscedasticity multivariate autoregression approach has a significant effect. In addition, other variables have a direct and significant relationship with life insurance demand. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of providing a model to investigate habit formation in life insurance purchase in Iran. The results of this study are consistent with the results of Amari Allahyari et al., (2024), Li et al., (2021), Ahmadi et al., (2021), Ghasemi Aghdami et al., (2021), Karimi & Zaghian (2020), Abdolsalam (2021), and Tan et al., (2018). Amari Allahyari et al., (2024) showed that service quality plays a vital role in increasing customer satisfaction and improving organizational performance. The findings show that life insurance representatives with problem-solving and helpfulness skills can increase customers' willingness to purchase life insurance products. This study emphasizes that high service quality is a key competitive advantage in the life insurance market and should be aligned with organizational goals. Based on the present study, the following suggestions are made: Reforming the organizational structure of the investment unit. Reforming the regulations related to the investment limit of life financial resources. Using experimental advertising by insurance companies in order to confirm the habit formation hypothesis. Insurance companies can design optimal strategies in line with customer demand for life insurance by measuring factors related to monitoring and controlling the organization's internal processes and employing expert personnel at different levels.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Designing a sustainable consumption model in the market of health-oriented products

Pages 109-131

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.493710.1469

Soheila Modir Rosta, Elham Faridchehr, Mansour Torkiantabar

Abstract Abstract The aim of this study is to design a sustainable consumption model in the health-based products market. The present study is applicable in terms of its purpose and qualitative in terms of its implementation method. The statistical population of the study includes 13 experts and specialists in the field of sustainable consumption, and the samples were selected using a purposive sampling method, and information collection continued until theoretical saturation. Data analysis in the qualitative section is performed using the data-driven method and MAXQDA software version 2020. The results of the research showed that the designed model, which includes causal conditions (attitude towards sustainable consumption, subjective norms, ethical commitment to sustainable consumption, consumer perception, values, social responsibility, sustainable consumption intention, and environmental awareness), contextual conditions (factors related to the marketing mix, environmental laws, political factors), intervening conditions (responsible consumption, sustainable consumption reduction behavior), category-centric, strategies (push marketing, sustainability incentives, use of celebrities, etc.), and consequences (life satisfaction, conservation of natural resources, health-oriented product purchasing behavior) were identified to explain the components of sustainable consumption in health-oriented products. Introduction Sustainable consumption behavior emphasizes the importance of reducing resource consumption and adopting circular economy principles to achieve sustainable development. By examining the impact of environmental awareness, hedonic and functional aspects on sustainable consumption and purchase intention, it can be concluded that environmental awareness has a significant impact on sustainable consumption (Khalid, M. et al., 2024). Today, companies and organizations are forced to include environmental protection issues in their activities in order to meet customer needs, act on social responsibility, and protect consumer rights (Emamgholi, 2011). It seems that lack of awareness of green products is the biggest obstacle to consuming such products (Teseng & Hung, 2017). By providing information and building trust in customers, a bond is created between the customer and the company, and this emotional bond with a place created as a result of the experience is effective on the individual's positive evaluation of that company and his behavioral tendencies in the future. (Yuskel et al., 2016) Another very important issue is that sustainable consumption, as a responsible approach to using resources, plays an important role in preserving the environment and improving the quality of life. With the increase in environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss, the importance of sustainable consumption has become more apparent than ever. Sustainable consumption is not limited to purchasing environmentally friendly products, but also includes everyday behaviors such as reducing waste, reusing goods, choosing sustainable food and reducing energy consumption. With increasing public awareness and global efforts, societies are seeking to adopt more sustainable practices to meet current needs while preserving resources and suitable conditions for future generations. However, the number of studies that specifically address the effects of sustainable consumption in various aspects is limited. On the other hand, most of the concerns of people in today's world and in our country are the health of the used products which cause less damage to the environment; and this doubles the importance of sustainable consumption in health-oriented products and explains the need to address this category. In fact, the main concern of the present study is the same, and an attempt has been made to fill the existing gaps and present a paradigmatic research model. Therefore, given the importance of the subject, an attempt has been made to address most of the aspects affecting sustainable consumption. Accordingly, the main issue of the present article is: How is the sustainable consumption model designed in the market for health-oriented products? Theoretical framework - Sustainable consumption Sustainable consumption includes the use of products and services that meet basic needs and improve the quality of life, while minimizing the consumption of natural resources, toxic substances, and the emission of waste and pollutants throughout the life cycle so that the needs of future generations are not jeopardized. At its core, sustainable consumption requires a change in consumer behavior, encouraging individuals and communities to make more environmentally conscious decisions. This includes reducing consumption of goods, choosing products with lower environmental impacts, and adopting practices such as recycling and reuse. The principle emphasizes the importance of consumers paying attention to the environmental footprint of their choices and moving them towards lifestyles that help preserve the environment. Sustainable consumption is not limited to individual choices, but also involves making systematic changes to production processes and supply chains to embed sustainability into the structure of consumer products and services (Khajuria, A & Verma, 2025). Some researchers consider sustainable consumption behavior as an act of voluntary convenience or anti-consumption (MoradiDehkordi & Barrani, 2022); while others define it as the adoption of green lifestyle activities. Diverse perspectives and explanations make sustainable consumption behavior a complex phenomenon to describe and predict. Some marketers and policymakers have emphasized the need to understand the social and institutional actions that may encourage the development of environmentally friendly behavior among consumers. Other studies have discussed the role of individual values ​​in influencing sustainable behaviors (Jain, 2021). In addition, the higher price of sustainable products compared to conventional options is another important factor in sustainable consumption. Given the associated economic challenges, the issue of affordability must be taken seriously. Local and major news media point to higher prices for eco-friendly products, and claims like “buying green is too expensive for the average consumer” are proposed, and consulting firms are examining why “today’s pricing is a barrier to sustainability.” While previous studies have shown that product price is a barrier to green purchasing, new research shows that not only consumers’ actual financial resources, but also their financial withdrawals predict sustainable consumption. However, consumers who follow plant-based diets actually spend less on food purchases than other consumers. Therefore, actual financial ability and withdrawals can have similar or different effects on consumer choices (Schnack, A. & Gan, C., 2024). Research Methodology This research is applicable in terms of purpose, and qualitative in terms of implementation. A purposive sampling strategy was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Given that the subject of presenting a sustainable consumption model in the health-oriented product market was to collect information, academic experts and university professors specializing in the field of consumer behavior who had published articles on this topic were consulted, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. In this research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 participants from the aforementioned statistical population. Finally, the research data were analyzed through a coding process based on the systematic approach of Strauss and Corbin's data theory. In this method, the stages of data analysis were carried out through open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Data analysis were carried out through coding the interviews in the 2020 MAXQDA software. Research findings In this study, considering the meaning of these codes, each has been categorized into a similar concept, and thus the research concepts were determined. The categories were written in the form of components based on the analysis of the interviews. The findings from this stage indicate that such a systematic and comprehensive study has not been conducted so far, and each of the studies has focused on a specific aspect and has not been presented in a comprehensive and systematic framework. The coding process consists of three stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. The results of this study provide a model with 26 indicators in sustainable consumption. Factors include causal conditions (attitude towards sustainable consumption, subjective norms, ethical commitment to sustainable consumption, consumer perception, values, social responsibility, sustainable consumption intention, green management education, environmental awareness), contextual conditions (factors related to the marketing mix, environmental laws, political factors, political antecedents), focal category (sustainable consumption, health-oriented products), strategies (marketing, sustainability incentives, understanding economic models, green management education, sustainable identity formation, use of celebrities), consequences (satisfaction with life, purchasing behavior of health-oriented products, conservation of natural resources), and intervening conditions (responsible consumption, sustainable consumption reduction behavior) that explain the components of sustainable consumption in health-oriented products were identified. Conclusion The main result of this study is to provide a comprehensive model of sustainable consumption in the health-oriented products market. The results of this study indicate that using strategies in the field of sustainable consumption such as sustainable incentives, which include promoting simple procedures for sustainable consumption and training in creating business models based on sustainable consumption and using creative and intelligent strategies to attract customer attention, which ultimately results in things such as life satisfaction, conservation of natural resources (choosing products with the least environmental pollution, reducing greenhouse gases, reducing global warming due to the use of health-oriented products), and purchasing behavior for health-oriented products. The results of this study are consistent with the results of Kumar, S, & Yadav (2021), Simeone, M. et al., (2025), Abbasi & Rezaei (2017), Haung (2022), Milas Zewicz (2022), and Ambuli et al., (2022). The results of these factors showed that sustainable consumption attitudes and mental norms, and consumer perception have a significant impact on sustainable behavior and can play an effective role in marketing health-oriented products. Sustainable consumption behavior is influential in adopting appropriate strategies and actions; and background conditions such as supportive policies, integration of innovation policies, and environmental policies can provide a suitable platform for the activities of health-oriented product manufacturers in developing sustainable consumption. According to the present study, the following suggestions are presented: Ethical consumerism training patterns Granting bank loans to health-oriented product manufacturers Availability of health-oriented products Using creative and intelligent strategies to attract customer attention Supporting local economy and innovation in sustainable consumption

Original Article (Mixed) Business Management

Providing a model to explain the factors affecting the implementation of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (ECRM) with an emphasis on artificial intelligence components and its outcomes for banking customers

Pages 132-156

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.580180.1740

Neda Kavosi, Karim Hamdi, Hossein Vazifehdust

Abstract Abstract The objective of the present study is to provide a model to explain the factors affecting the implementation of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (ECRM) with an emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) components and its outcomes for banking customers. In terms of its objective, the research method is developmental-applicable; and in terms of its execution, it is a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) study. The statistical population in the qualitative section includes 10 experiential and academic experts, and the statistical population in the quantitative section consists of 8 experiential and academic experts, selected through purposeful snowball and judgmental sampling methods. Data collection tools included semi-structured interviews in the qualitative section and an ISM questionnaire in the quantitative section. To analyze the findings, thematic analysis based on open, axial, and selective coding was applied in the qualitative section, while Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and interactive matrices were employed in the quantitative section. Research findings indicated that the successful implementation of ECRM in banks is influenced by a set of key factors, including technological factors (IT infrastructure, data quality, AI tools), organizational factors (top management support, organizational culture, processes), and human factors (employee skills, technology adoption). Furthermore, the results indicate that the application of AI components in ECRM leads to a significant improvement in outcomes such as customer satisfaction, trust, loyalty, customer experience, and value creation. Introduction The digital initiatives of governments undertaken since the beginning of the last decade, coupled with the increasing penetration of the Internet in recent years, have led to a surge in the global digital population (this increase has been reported to be over 50% in the last decade) (Statista, 2020). The Internet has become a powerful tool for electronic customer relationship management (Almajali et al., 2022). As digital technology begins to blur the distinctions between data platforms, a relatively new field of science—namely, Electronic Customer Relationship Management (E-CRM)—is developing. Customers interact with companies through a variety of information channels, some of which are connected to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) applications via the Internet (Santy & Hardiyanti, 2019). Intense competition, increasing globalization, and rising consumer expectations have forced banks to provide the best possible services to their customers, both to retain customers and to increase financial profitability (Gul et al., 2025). As a result, the business model has shifted from being bank-centric to customer-centric. Product homogeneity has only added to the burden of the banking industry, becoming a major challenge for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty during a significant transition in technology and customer behavior. Banks utilize various ICT strategies to improve their customer relationships (Al-Dmour et al., 2019). The rapid expansion of digital banking has forced banks to transform their current strategy into an omni-channel strategy that includes the Internet, web, or physical branches (Shastri et al., 2020). Consequently, banks offer a wide range of digital products, including online banking, mobile banking, telephone banking, neobanking, self-service technology, and more. Every marketing campaign is primarily aimed at enhancing business profitability and developing and maintaining good customer relationships (Kotler & Keller, 2015). In managing a customer relationship system, it is necessary to analyze customer interaction data using appropriate tools. Today, these tools are developed and utilized through information technology capabilities. Therefore, to succeed in implementing a customer relationship management system, the factors affecting its implementation must first be examined and an appropriate model must be adopted. This will be addressed in this thesis through a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) approach. Thus, the main question is formulated as follows: How can the factors affecting the implementation of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (ECRM) be explained, emphasizing artificial intelligence components and their subsequent outcomes for banking customers? Theoretical Framework Electronic Customer Relationship Management Electronic Customer Relationship Management (ECRM) is an online delivery system of sales, marketing, and service designed to identify, attract, and retain a company’s customers. The form of customer relationship management that is established through the use of information technology is referred to as Electronic Customer Relationship Management (Fuad & Abdullah, 2023). Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence refers to the study of how computers can be made to perform tasks that humans currently perform correctly or better, and it is defined as the intelligence demonstrated by a machine or the computer science that attempts to create it (Zolghadr et al., 2025). Asadi et al. (2025) investigated the identification of primary elements and components affecting electronic customer relationship management, and their results showed that variables related to causal factors—including human, technological, and support factors—along with contextual factors such as cultural and industry factors, and organizational factors including organizational design and customer-related factors, were identified and categorized as influential variables on electronic customer relationship management; furthermore, satisfaction and loyalty were recognized as the outcomes of implementing electronic customer relationship management. Additionally, Emami et al. (2025) examined the design of an AI-based customer relationship management model in digital service marketing within the health tourism industry, where the research results indicated that causal conditions included market competition enhancement, relationship improvement, automated data analysis, and empowerment, while contextual conditions consisted of customer data management and intelligent services; moreover, intervening conditions included efficient planning, resource savings, and customer behavior management, while the strategies in the study involved solving integration problems, information management issues, and planning challenges, leading to outcomes such as increased customer satisfaction, improved financial strength, customer loyalty, and time savings, with structural equation modeling results demonstrating that the dimensions loaded well onto the research variables and provided an appropriate description of them. Research Methodology The research method, based on its objective, is developmental-applicable; and in terms of execution, follows a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) approach. The statistical population of the study in the qualitative phase consists of 10 experimental and academic experts, and in the quantitative phase, it includes 8 experimental and academic experts selected by purposeful snowball and judgmental sampling methods. The data collection tool in the qualitative section is semi-structured interviews, while the quantitative section utilizes the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) questionnaire. Research Findings To analyze the findings, thematic analysis based on open, axial, and selective coding was utilized in the qualitative phase, while the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) method and interactive matrices were employed in the quantitative phase. The research findings revealed that the successful implementation of ECRM in banks is influenced by a set of key factors, including technological factors (IT infrastructure, data quality, and AI tools), organizational factors (top management support, organizational culture, and processes), and human factors (employee skills and technology adoption). Furthermore, the results indicate that the application of artificial intelligence components in ECRM leads to a significant improvement in outcomes such as customer satisfaction, trust, loyalty, customer experience, and value creation. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the objective of providing a model to explain the factors affecting the implementation of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (ECRM), with an emphasis on artificial intelligence components and their subsequent outcomes for banking customers. The results of this research are consistent with the findings of Asadi et al. (2025), Emami et al. (2025), Hosseinimanesh et al. (2025), Karimi & Mahmoodi Ranani (2025), Zolghadr et al. (2025), Shiri & Hassoumi (2024), Pousti (2024), Sahoo et al. (2024), Amin Ravan & Ferdous Makan (2023), Sarfarazi et al. (2023), and Fuad & Abdullah (2023). Karimi & Mahmoodi Ranani (2025) demonstrated that the adoption of artificial intelligence in e-commerce has a significant relationship with improving the business performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Furthermore, their research emphasizes the pivotal role of dynamic capabilities and entrepreneurial orientation in advancing AI adoption within the e-commerce sector, which in turn contributes to enhanced business performance; these results highlight the importance of developing technological capabilities and innovative approaches in SMEs to effectively exploit artificial intelligence and achieve growth and success. Given the dependence of intelligent ECRM on data and artificial intelligence, it is suggested that regulatory bodies facilitate the sustainable development of these systems by formulating transparent frameworks in the areas of privacy, AI ethics, and data security.

Original Article (Mixed) Business Management

Analytical Study of Stakeholder Relationships in the Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem of Iran’s Automotive Industry

Pages 157-180

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.571128.1705

Majid Darvish, Seyed Hamid Khodadad Hosseini, Fereshteh Mansourimoayyed, Gholam Reza Goudarzi

Abstract Abstract The primary aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the complex relationship patterns among stakeholders within the artificial intelligence ecosystem of Iran’s automotive industry, and to precisely identify the loci of power concentration, interest misalignments, and potential capacities for strategic convergence. To this end, a mixed‑method (qualitative–quantitative) research design grounded in futures studies was employed. In the first phase, through a systematic literature review and expert panel consultations with industry and academic specialists, 48 key stakeholders along with their core objectives were identified. In the second phase, the required quantitative data were collected through standardized impact–influence matrices and actor–objective position matrices, and subsequently analyzed by the mathematical model implemented in the MACTOR software. The findings from the internal analysis indicate that the network structure is highly unbalanced; specifically, 66.7% of stakeholders fall within the “strategic isolation” quadrant, while the only actor positioned in a state of “mutual dependence” is the automotive manufacturing sector. Conversely, the external analysis reveals the formation of a powerful coalition within the industrial–governmental bloc (including automakers; the Ministry of ICT; the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade; and the military sector), primarily aligned around hardware‑driven objectives such as infrastructure development and data security. In contrast, actors such as media, universities, and civil society organizations exhibit minimal convergence with these strategic objectives. Introduction Today, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a significant driving force across various industries (Soleymanpoor et al., 2025). This transformative technology plays a pivotal role, particularly in the automotive industry—a sector recognized as a leading economic engine in many nations. AI not only optimizes manufacturing processes and supply chains but also facilitates the design of innovative products such as autonomous vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) (Tripathi et al., 2024). Furthermore, AI-driven smart after-sales services have enhanced customer satisfaction and operational efficiency (Mehta et al., 2024). Nevertheless, AI remains an emerging phenomenon within the automotive technological ecosystem; its sustainable development, involving diverse stakeholders with multifaceted objectives, necessitates rigorous investigation (Pourshahabi, 2023). Stakeholder interactions within technological ecosystems are critical dimensions of their development and success. These ecosystems comprise complex networks of relationships among organizations, individuals, and resources involved in the creation, production, and commercialization of new technologies (Tripathi et al., 2024). Deciphering these relationships—including the identification of key stakeholders, their goals, and their interaction patterns—is a fundamental necessity for managers and policymakers. Through a meticulous analysis of these relations, more effective strategies can be formulated for resource allocation, collaboration facilitation, and risk management (Khizar et al., 2025). Moreover, examining the structures and dynamics governing these ecosystems can foster open innovation, improve organizational performance, and enhance global competitiveness (Iglesias-Sánchez et al., 2022). Ultimately, managing stakeholder relations in technological ecosystems contributes to sustainable development and value creation for all participants (Li et al., 2022). Addressing stakeholder relations is essential because technological ecosystems represent interconnected clusters of agents collaborating to advance innovation and technological growth (Reiter et al., 2024). Understanding these relationships assists policymakers in leveraging the ecosystem’s full potential by creating efficient and effective policy environments (Grimm & Walz, 2024). Identifying the mutual interests and objectives of diverse stakeholders—including technology firms, academia, investors, and the government—enables the formulation of strategies that encourage collaboration and innovation while mitigating dysfunctional competition (Hayatmehr et al., 2025). In the contemporary era, the automotive industry has undergone a paradigm shift from a purely mechanical domain to a “software-centric” and “intelligent” industry. This transition is fraught with fundamental challenges and conflicts of interest among stakeholders. The current status quo reflects a “strategic rift” between the various layers of this ecosystem. On one hand, large automakers, characterized by traditional and bureaucratic structures, often resist the agile transformations necessitated by AI. On the other hand, the innovation landscape and AI firms face obstacles such as lack of access to automakers’ operational data, absence of sustainable cash flow, and a void of transparent regulatory standards. Consequently, these challenges have prompted the researcher to address the following core question: What is the nature of stakeholder relations within the AI ecosystem of Iran’s automotive industry? Theoretical Foundations Technology Ecosystem A technology ecosystem is a complex and multidimensional concept referring to a network of activities, actors, and technologies that operate in a coordinated and interdependent manner to generate innovation and create value (Hayatmehr et al., 2025). The origin of this concept dates back to the past two decades, coinciding with the growing attention of scholars and managers to the development and management of inter-organizational relationships and technology-driven activities. Specifically within the domain of digital technologies, the ecosystem concept is employed to facilitate innovation and entrepreneurship, benefiting from advanced developments such as blockchain and financial technologies (Hijriah et al., 2024; Kitsantas & Chytis, 2022). Soleymanpoor et al. (2025) examined the development of a model for identifying factors influencing the socialization of artificial intelligence technologies. Their study, applied in purpose and quantitative in method, was conducted as a descriptive–survey research design. The results indicated that both independent and dependent variables had a direct, positive, and statistically significant relationship. Rostam Zadeh Ganji et al. (2025) explored a model for developing cognitive trust among employees in the context of artificial intelligence. Their findings revealed that causal factors—including transparency, training and awareness‑building, ethical alignment, and the definition of shared roles and objectives—alongside contextual factors such as organizational culture and resources, as well as intervening factors like employee resistance and system complexity, all contribute to shaping cognitive trust. Additionally, strategies such as employee training and empowerment were identified as key tools for enhancing human–machine interaction. Research Methodology This study is applicable in purpose, and qualitative‑analytical in nature, employing a futures studies approach combined with stakeholder analysis. The core methodological framework is grounded in actor‑based analysis and designed using the strategic MACTOR model. To this end, key stakeholders and the strategic objectives of the artificial intelligence ecosystem in Iran’s automotive industry were initially identified through a systematic review of policy documents and relevant literature. Subsequently, the required data were collected by means of a specialized questionnaire and based on the insights of an expert panel comprising technical specialists, industrial managers, and policymakers selected through purposive sampling. The final analysis was conducted by constructing matrices of mutual influence and actor–objective positions (3MAO), enabling the extraction of levels of influence, dependency, and strategic coalitions among the actors. Research Findings The findings of this study indicate that the network structure is highly unbalanced, with most stakeholders positioned in isolation, while primary power and bilateral interactions are concentrated exclusively within the automotive manufacturing institutions. This configuration stems from a predominantly top‑down managerial orientation and limited cross‑sectoral collaboration. In fact, a strong coalition has formed among industrial, governmental, and defense‑related sectors, whose central focus is confined to hardware‑oriented and security‑driven issues, whereas academic, media, and civil stakeholders possess minimal influence within this ecosystem. Therefore, overcoming this condition requires governance mechanisms to be reformed through legal and economic incentives that would enable private‑sector and academic actors to integrate more effectively into the core of power and decision‑making. Discussion and Conclusion According to the findings of the influence matrix, although professional drivers operate within the operational layer, their direct impact on macro‑level policymaking is estimated to be zero. Nevertheless, their central objective is “reducing human error and increasing safety in long‑distance driving.” The analysis reveals that shareholders are among the most powerful economic actors. Their primary focus lies in “profit maximization” and “improving financial returns.” This result is fully consistent with the findings of Kanani et al. (2023) and Laskin & D’Agostino (2024), who argue that the main driver behind the adoption of artificial intelligence in the automotive industry in developing countries is not environmental concerns, but rather the reduction of operational costs and the enhancement of the financial attractiveness of automotive firms. The public expresses a diverse set of concerns, including “improving safety” and “data security.” The results show that society views AI as a tool for promoting fairness in mobility and reducing accidents. This perspective aligns with Karimlou & Zakeri (2020), who emphasized the role of “public trust” derived from enhanced safety. The findings also indicate that startups, due to their very low influence, have not yet secured their true position within the Iranian automotive industry. Their limited focus on “autonomous vehicle technologies” reflects the significant barriers to entering this highly exclusive market. This result corresponds with the concerns raised by Kolekar et al. (2021) regarding the “gap between innovative ideas and the production lines of large manufacturers”. Suppliers predominantly focus on “profit maximization” and “specialized human resources.” Automakers, with the highest overall scores, serve as the principal compass of the industry. They occupy leading positions across all indicators, including “profit,” “competitiveness,” and even “data security.” This concentration of power is consistent with Castells’ Network Society theory (2010), which posits that the central nodes of a network control the greatest flow of data and resources. Banks constitute key players in financing large‑scale AI projects. Their primary orientation toward “profit generation” and “infrastructure development” supports the premise presented by Kanani et al. (2023), who argued that without financial intermediary institutions, the transition from a traditional automotive industry to an intelligent one would face severe liquidity challenges. Technology companies, however, occupy a significantly lower‑than‑expected position within the ecosystem. Their limited emphasis on “infrastructure development” and “human resources” suggests that the technical sector has not yet been fully integrated into the value chain of large automakers. This finding markedly differs from the Karimlou & Zakeri (2020) model, in which technology companies (such as Tesla or NVIDIA) constitute the primary driving forces. Municipalities act as “urban infrastructure facilitators.” Their balanced focus on “supporting innovation” and “infrastructure development” illustrates the strong dependence of autonomous vehicle implementation on the progress of smart city initiatives. This result aligns with Kanani et al. (2023), who emphasized that without physical urban infrastructure—such as smart traffic lights—automotive AI alone cannot be effective. The Traffic Police (Law Enforcement) shows the highest level of concern regarding “safety” (and “human resources”). The findings suggest that this institution views AI as a tool for enhancing traffic discipline, which corresponds with the results reported by Kanani et al. (2023). The Environmental Protection Organization achieves the highest score on the “environmental protection” indicator. This is consistent with Murphy & Navani (2024), who argued that AI, through route optimization and reduced fuel consumption, represents one of the few viable solutions for alleviating pollution in large metropolitan areas. The Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution primarily contributes to “foresight” and “cultural impact assessments”. Its emphasis on “human capital development” and “data security/privacy” reflects concerns about the ethical dimensions of advanced technologies. The Judiciary plays a vital role in “developing legal frameworks”, and is expected to become the primary stakeholder in addressing legal cases related to autonomous vehicles. This finding corresponds with the challenges discussed by Kanani et al.

Original Article (Qualitative) Entrepreneurship

Designing an Entrepreneurial Marketing Model for the Development of the Tourism Industry

Pages 181-203

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.497542.1477

Abdolreza Moharrer, Abolfazl Moghaddam, Homa Doroudi, Nabiollah Mohammadi

Abstract Abstract The aim of this study is designing an entrepreneurial marketing model for the development of the tourism industry. The research is applicable in terms of purpose, based on the method of theory. The statistical population was senior executives and experts in the field of marketing, entrepreneurship and tourism (with more than 10 years of experience), investigated by a targeted non -snowballs, as many as 12 persons, to reach the theoretical saturation stage and in a semi-structured deep interview. Maxqda 2018 software was used for data coding. The findings showed that the 18 main categories were identified in the six classes of the theory. This research examines the factors affecting the development of the health tourism industry through the design of entrepreneurial marketing model. In this regard, casual agents such as physicians' expertise, staff communication skills, and innovative health care have been identified as key components. In terms of underlying factors, issues such as economic conditions, physical and service infrastructure, and government support have a major impact on the improvement of the health tourism market. Interventional factors include cultural differences, competition with similar purposes, and technology advances in the medical field; that influence the success of marketing strategies. Finally, the consequences of this study include increasing health tourism revenue, improving the quality of health services, and enhancing international interactions, all of which help the industry's growth and sustainability. The results of this study could be used as a roadmap for managers and policymakers in the tourism industry to develop entrepreneurial marketing and improve the competitiveness of the industry. Introduction The health tourism industry has been considered one of the most important and popular economic areas in the world in recent years. The industry, which combines two areas of tourism and health services, provides not only for destination countries, but also for tourists to improve health, reduce health costs, and benefit from high quality health services (Giannake, Economou, Metaxas & Geitona, 2023). However, in order to fully utilize the industry's potential, there is a need to use innovative and entrepreneurial marketing strategies, especially in developing countries (Rahimian & Esavi, 2023). Given the rapid and accelerated growth of the industry, many countries, especially Iran, which have rich natural and therapeutic resources, seek to develop and strengthen their health tourism industry. Iran, as one of the most important destinations in the region, has many capabilities in various therapeutic, medical and cosmetic areas that can attract health tourists. However, in many cases, the lack of entrepreneurial and innovative marketing strategies has made the industry potential not fully utilized (Salimi, 2023). Previous models in this field have mainly analyzed and evaluated existing conditions and have often used qualitative methods and theme analysis (Jabari Nezhad Esfahlan & et al, 2022; Rajabi, 2022). For example, AHP and SWOT models have been used to identify and prioritize effective factors in health tourism development (Imeni Gheshlagh & Asshghali Farahani, 2023). Also, network analysis models and structural frameworks have been introduced to evaluate empowerment and infrastructure (Chekin, 2022; Khazaie Aliabad & Has Ani, 2023). Although these studies have been useful, they need to develop innovative models and combine these approaches in a comprehensive and operational framework to help improve health tourism marketing and attract international tourists. In this regard, the design of an entrepreneurial marketing model, which contributes to the development of this industry by emphasizing innovation, creativity, and the use of existing resources in the health tourism industry, can be considered as an effective strategy for enhancing health tourists and enhancing the quality of services in the industry. This pattern should be in a way that can identify and respond to the target market needs. Finally, the present study seeks to answer the question: what is the entrepreneurial marketing model for the development of the tourism industry? Theoretical framework The concepts and principles of entrepreneurial marketing Entrepreneurial marketing refers to the process of using innovative and creative approaches to identify new opportunities, develop unique products and services, and marketing to attract and retain customers. In this type of marketing, entrepreneurs are looking to exploit market opportunities that are usually less attracted to competitors (abbasi-moud, vahdat-nejad & saadri, 2021). This approach is based on the combination of creativity, risk -taking, and innovation that ultimately leads to sustainable competitive advantages for the organization (Carracedo, Puertas & Marti, 2021). Health Tourism Health tourism refers to the process of travel to specific destinations for medical and health services that have grown rapidly in recent years as a global industry. The industry is a combination of medical, treatment and health services that not only include complex medical treatments such as surgeries and specialized treatments, but also covers preventive care and alternative therapies such as traditional medicine and physical therapies. Health tourism in many countries, especially developing countries, is a popular destination for people looking for high quality medical services and lower costs (Pour Khosravi, Barahouie, Hanif Khetar Kekha Momen, 2023(. Research Methodology The present study approach is of qualitative type and its strategy based on the data-based theory. At the heart of this method, a systematic approach was used to achieve a paradigm pattern. The statistical population of this study included all senior managers and experts in the field of marketing, entrepreneurship and tourism (with over 10 years of experience). The method of sampling was non-probable targeted as snowball sampling and the number of samples was 12 people. The research tool was a semi -structured interview that the data collected were analyzed with three stages of open, central and selective coding using Maxqda 2018 software. Research Findings 12 interviews were analyzed for this study. In the open coding stage, after reviewing the data and integrating similar concepts, 148 initial concepts were reduced to 85 sub-categories. In the second step; central coding, secondary codes were classified based on similar topics and were placed in 18 main categories. At the last stage of open coding, the main categories obtained from pre-similarities, conceptual communication and common characteristics between open codes and concepts were placed in more abstract classes or categories. In the axial coding stage, the components obtained from the open coding stage were linked to the paradigm pattern in the form of 18 main categories. Casual agents such as physicians' expertise, staff communication skills, and innovative health care have been identified as key components. In terms of underlying factors, issues such as economic conditions, physical and service infrastructure, and government support have a major impact on the improvement of the health tourism market. Interventional factors include cultural differences, competition with similar purposes, and technology advances in the medical field, that influence the success of marketing strategies. Finally, the consequences of this study include increasing health tourism revenue, improving the quality of health services, and enhancing international interactions, all of which help the industry's growth and sustainability. Conclusion The purpose of this study was to design an entrepreneurial marketing model for the development of the tourism industry. The results of this study are in line with previous studies in the field of health tourism. Rahimian & ESAVI (2023) emphasized the role of reference, financial stimuli, residence, transportation, and restructuring of medical centers, which corresponds to the findings of this study. Zareh (2023) also considered economic components to be effective in sustaining health tourism, as this study refers to the importance of financial policies. Daraie et al., (2023) considered strategic planning, support services, marketing and new technologies in tourism entrepreneurship as key factors, which also emphasizes the findings of this study. Also, Wang et al., (2023) emphasized the sustainable management and perspective of international patients, which also referred to the satisfaction of patients as an important factor. Finally, Lunt et al., (2023) expressed the systematic consequences of health tourism, including the quality of treatment, safety and financial issues, which also emphasize the need for therapeutic standards and support policies. According to the results of the research, the following suggestion was presented: It is recommended that organizations work closer to educational and research institutes to update human skills and introduce health innovations. Also, the use of new technologies such as digital platforms and mobile apps can help attract health tourists. Finally, the creation of hybrid service packages, including treatment and cultural and tourism experiences, can increase the attractiveness of health destinations in global markets.

Original Article (Quantified) Business Management

Customer mindset and its role in the willingness to order food online based on the CMOFO model

Pages 204-223

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.500186.1483

Shayan Rajabpour, Shahram Salavati, Majid Fatahi, Bagher Bagherian Kasgari

Abstract Abstract The present study aims to explain how customer mindset affects the tendency to order food online. The research method is applicable in terms of its purpose, with a quantitative approach. The statistical population of this study was 384 customers of food ordering applications and the sampling method was available sampling. A questionnaire was developed to collect data and PLS Smart software was used to analyze the findings. The findings showed that advertising (impact coefficient: 0.410 to 0.480) and the ordering experience with the app (0.428 to 0.454) have the greatest effect on the relevance of content, competitors, and app features. Customer mindset with a coefficient of 0.861 is one of the most important variables, strengthened through time savings (0.328), rewards (0.526), ​​and support (0.590). Also, living conditions (up to 0.519), food quality (up to 0.271), and food price (up to 0.187) play a significant role in interaction with the application. The results showed that food quality, food price, and living conditions are independent variables. These factors affect advertising and ordering experience. The aforementioned components affect the components of app features, app content relevance and competitors. Therefore, it is suggested that food ordering application developers focus on these key factors to improve customer experience and increase the willingness to buy on digital platforms. Introduction Today, buying goods and receiving services is no longer limited to physical stores, but with the expansion of e-commerce, people can use online stores and digital platforms to buy and receive services. This evolution in business models allows companies to reach a wider audience and make the purchasing process easier for customers. Online stores have provided consumers with many advantages, including ease of price comparison, shopping anytime and anywhere, and access to a wide variety of goods and services (Al Maalouf et al., 2025). Therefore, businesses are increasingly using Internet technology to improve their business processes, allowing companies to deliver their services and products to customers faster and more efficiently, create a competitive advantage, facilitate customer relationship management, and reduce costs (Alalwan, 2020). In recent decades, online food ordering services have been rapidly changing and evolving in the food service industry market. These changes, especially in the food retail sector, have led researchers to carefully examine how consumers interact with these platforms. Despite the significant use of these services, there has not been enough research on consumer behavior towards online food ordering (Yang, 2024). In particular, studies that have examined consumer behavior in this area are limited in number, and more up-to-date research is needed to better understand this trend (Alvarez et al., 2022). Some studies have focused on factors such as convenience, accessibility, and delivery time that influence consumers' decision-making in using these services, but in general, there is still no complete understanding of the long-term effects of these platforms on consumer purchasing behavior (Siddiqi et al., 2024). Given that consumer mindset is a new topic that is mostly studied in the field of psychology and has many gaps in the field of consumer behavior, this study attempts to evaluate the role of customer mindset in the willingness to order food online. So far, no research has focused on the mindset of Iranian consumers. This article examines the impact of mindsets and other psychological factors on the willingness to order food online in Iran. Despite the growing body of research in psychology, sociology, and to some extent marketing on the role of mindsets, there is little information on the role of mindsets in online shopping behavior. Therefore, there is a significant gap in the existing knowledge regarding the role of mindsets and their relationship with individuals' willingness to use online space. Thus, the researcher intends to answer the fundamental question: what are the factors affecting customers' mindsets for using online ordering applications? Theoretical Framework Online Ordering While e-commerce is rapidly expanding, the food industry has also gradually found its place in this growing space (Alagoz & Hekimoglu, 2012). Online food ordering applications, as a specific type of e-commerce, provide convenience and time savings to consumers (Dirsehan & Cankat, 2021) and have increased consumers' willingness to use these applications, which is one of the main reasons for the boom of this industry (Ramesh et al., 2023). In fact, applications have helped consumers eliminate unnecessary processes and have more time to do other things (Yeo et al., 2021). These applications have great potential to provide a better quality of life for consumers if they include certain features (Sobnath et al., 2017). Online food ordering is especially suitable for people who live in busy urban environments and have little time because they can place their order online and pick up the food at a designated location (Zulkarnain et al., 2015). These services are very convenient to use because they offer consumers a variety of food options (Idris et al., 2021) and help exchange experiences and feedback between customers and restaurants (Shah et al., 2021). In online food ordering applications, price acts as a determining factor in consumers' purchasing behavior (Lin et al., 2014), and food quality refers to its overall characteristics that affect the customer's experience of the restaurant (Suhartanto et al., 2019). Research Methodology This study is applicable and focuses on quantitative analysis of the relationships between variables. The data collection method is a questionnaire that includes 14 dimensions and 71 items. To verify the validity of the questionnaire, the content validity method was used; in this way, experts in the fields related to consumer behavior and online food ordering were first consulted and the necessary amendments were made based on their opinions, and Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated for the reliability of the questionnaire; therefore, the desired variables had the required reliability. Then, the questionnaire was presented to 384 consumers of online food ordering applications as a sample. Research findings SPSS software was used to analyze the findings, and structural equations and PLS Smart software were used to fit the model. The research findings showed that food ordering applications lead to improved customer experience and increased willingness to buy on digital platforms. Conclusion The present study was conducted based on the CMOFO model with the aim of customer mindset and its role in the willingness to order food online. The results showed that food quality and living conditions as independent factors have a significant impact on advertising and ordering experience variables. This result is clearly in line with previous studies such as the studies of Tewari et al., (2022) and Papadopoulou et al., (2023). Privacy and ordering rewards also affect time savings and follow-up support. These variables are known to be influential factors in consumer decision-making and are in line with the studies of Valenti et al., (2023) and Murphy & Dweck (2016). According to the present study, the following suggestions are made: Accurate, realistic and practical information in effective advertising Continuous application updates Assuring users to protect personal information Providing services tailored to specific segments of society

Original Article (Mixed) Business Management

Designing a Model for Implementing a Data-Driven Human Resource Management System Using Digital and Intelligent Tools in the Tehran Blood Transfusion Organization

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.583662.1754

Mahdi Khodaparast

Abstract The objective of this research is to design a model for the implementation of a data-driven human resource (HR) management system utilizing digital and intelligent tools within the Tehran Blood Transfusion Organization. In terms of its goal, this study is classified as fundamental research, and in terms of its execution, it employs a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative).



The statistical population for the qualitative phase included 15 academic experts, faculty members, and managers of the Blood Transfusion Organization, selected through purposive and theoretical (judgmental) sampling. The quantitative population consisted of 700 active employees of the Tehran Blood Transfusion Organization, from which a sample size of 196 individuals was selected using simple random sampling. Data collection tools involved semi-structured interviews for the qualitative phase and questionnaires for the quantitative phase. Data analysis was performed using MAXQDA 2020 for the qualitative findings, while SPSS and SmartPLS were utilized for the quantitative analysis.



Findings from the qualitative phase revealed that through axial coding, 44 primary codes were categorized into 22 axial codes, representing the key concepts and structural components of a data-driven HR system. The quantitative analysis confirmed that causal, contextual, intervening, and strategic factors significantly impact the implementation of the data-driven human resource system. Furthermore, alignment between organizational structure, technology, and policies was identified as a prerequisite for successful data-driven decision-making and enhanced human resource effectiveness. By presenting an integrated and data-driven model, this study highlights the critical role of digital and intelligent tools in improving HR processes and strategic decision-making, providing a valuable practical and theoretical guide for organizations navigating the path of digital transformation.

Original Article (Qualitative) business management

Designing a model for the development of new small and medium businesses with an emphasis on the social capital of employees

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.581493.1746

Golnaz Rasouli, Seyed Mohamad Zahedi, Karamollah Daneshfard

Abstract The objective of this study is to design a development model for emerging small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with an emphasis on employees’ social capital. In terms of purpose, the present study is applied, and in terms of implementation, it adopts a qualitative approach. The research population consisted of managers, experts, and owners of emerging SMEs in Tehran Province. From this population, 21 participants were selected using purposive sampling through the snowball technique.Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and the data collection process continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. The findings of the thematic network analysis revealed six organizing themes, fifteen basic themes, and fifty-four initial codes representing the components and categories related to the development of emerging SMEs with an emphasis on employees’ social capital.The organizing themes were presented in six dimensions: “administrative rules and policies,” “innovative production practices,” “human resources and organizational learning,” “empowerment and knowledge development of human resources,” “financial support,” and “creation and development of infrastructures.”Emerging SMEs are considered highly effective and fundamental mechanisms for the comprehensive development of a country. Therefore, the growth and prosperity of these businesses require achieving long-term objectives by relying on employees’ knowledge, expertise, and social capital.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Presenting a Conceptual Model for Managing Post‑Purchase Anomalies in the Pharmaceutical Industry

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.578976.1730

Zahra Asili, Hassan Danaei, Vahid Sanavi Groosian, Hamid Saeedi

Abstract This study aims to develop a conceptual model for managing post-purchase anomalies within the pharmaceutical sector, focusing on Daroo Mofid Iran Company as a case study. Methodologically, the research is categorized as applied in terms of outcome, qualitative in data nature, and developmental-exploratory in objective. The target population comprised pharmaceutical industry experts, with 15 individuals selected via purposive sampling until reaching theoretical saturation. To ensure the instrument’s validity, expert judgment from specialized scholars was sought, while inter-coder reliability was applied to verify the consistency of the interviews. Data processing was performed using MAXQDA software. The resulting model, structured according to the Strauss and Corbin systematic approach, encompasses all fundamental dimensions: causal conditions, the core phenomenon, contextual factors, intervening conditions, strategies, and consequences. Identified strategic components include the optimization of monitoring and control systems, transparency enhancement, customer segmentation, tailored service delivery, sustained interaction, and the digitalization of organizational processes. Furthermore, the consequences of the model manifest as increased trust and loyalty, improved satisfaction, brand image reinforcement, complaint mitigation, reduction in the hidden costs of anomalies and outstanding claims, supply chain optimization, enhanced competitive advantage, and the mitigation of “basket selling” practices.

Original Article (Quantified) Business Management

Modeling factors affecting customer orientation in the insurance industry

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

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

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. The participants in the study were 384 employees representing the top ten insurance companies in the northwest of the country in 2023, including Iran Insurance, Mellat, Asia, Parsian, Alborz, Dana, Saman, Karafir, Moallem and Razi, who were selected according to the Morgan table and in a cluster random manner. The data collection tool was a questionnaire derived from qualitative findings and data analysis was also performed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling in SPSS23 and Amos software at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that the research model has a good fit and all factors including financial wealth development (sig=0.007), customer satisfaction (sig=0.009), information and communication technology promotion (sig=0.011), brand development (sig=0.003), insurtech development (sig=0.001), content marketing development (sig=0.019), advanced customer relationship management (sig=0.008) and organizational excellence (sig=0.013) have 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 wealth, customer satisfaction, the promotion of information and communication technology, the development of brand names and trademarks, the development of insurtechs, the development of content marketing, advanced customer relationship management and organizational excellence that by promoting these factors, managers and officials of insurance agencies in the northwest of the country can adopt a customer-oriented approach in their organization

Original Article (Quantified) Business Management

Modeling the Valuation of Myket Brand Using Weibull Distribution

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.521329.1554

Mohammad Reza Radfar, Maryam Zolfonoon

Abstract This research aims to model the decline in the value of the Myket brand, as one of the leading platforms for distributing mobile applications in Iran, using Weibull distribution. Data were collected from Myket's financial statements (including operating income of 357 billion Tomans and evaluation costs of 8 billion Tomans per year (2024) and non-financial indicators such as 26 million monthly active users and reports from global platforms such as Google Play and App Store. The statistical population consisted of 10 active digital brands in Iran, of which Myket was purposefully selected. The research method was quantitative and descriptive-analytical, and the analyses were conducted with Python (lifelines package) and R (survival package) software and the maximum likelihood method. The findings showed that the Weibull model predicted the trend of brand value decline with high accuracy (R²=0.92) and identified the decrease of 2.6 million monthly active users and increasing competition with platforms such as Cafe Bazaar as the main factors of the decline in value. Monte Carlo simulation showed that a 10% decrease in users increases the acceleration of brand value decline by 15%. This research was conducted with Providing a localized model suggests that Myket managers maintain and enhance brand value by strengthening the digital platform and developing innovations such as expanding digital content. This model can also be generalized to other native Iranian digital platforms.

Original Article (Quantified) Entrepreneurship

Designing a Policy Model for the Creation and Development of Digital Entrepreneurship Based on Competitive Advantage and Innovation in Knowledge-Based Businesses

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.389052.1057

Mehdi Jazinizadeh, Mehdi Mohammad Bagheri, Zahra Shokooh, Sanjar Salajegheh

Abstract The purpose of this study is to design a policy model for the creation and development of digital entrepreneurship based on competitive advantage and innovation in knowledge-based businesses. From the perspective of its objective, the research is applied, and in terms of methodology, it is quantitative and descriptive–correlational. The statistical population consisted of 1,740 employees and managers of knowledge-based companies in Kerman in 2024, of whom 560 individuals were selected through simple random sampling. The data collection instrument was a researcher-developed questionnaire. Quantitative data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with SPSS and AMOS software.The findings indicated that the proposed model for establishing and developing digital entrepreneurship based on competitive advantage and innovation in knowledge-based companies has an acceptable level of fit. Competitive advantage and innovation exert direct effects on the creation and development of digital entrepreneurship. The components of competitive advantage—including technical expertise and knowledge, branding, service quality, high standards, responsiveness, organizational agility, after-sales support, supply chain management, and superior efficiency—significantly influence the creation and development of digital entrepreneurship in knowledge-based companies. Collectively, the competitive advantage components explain 0.358 of the variance in the creation and development of digital entrepreneurship.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Identifying factors affecting the energy market ecosystem (case study of the Iranian electricity market)

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.563734.1678

Ahmad Sepehrian, Asghar Moshabaki, Fereshteh Mansouri Moayed, Amir Mohammad Colabi

Abstract The aim of this research is to identify the factors affecting the energy market ecosystem (case study of the Iranian electricity market). The research method is applied-exploratory in terms of its purpose and qualitative in terms of its implementation method, based on the data-driven method. The statistical population of the research includes 22 market management experts, as well as energy industry activists. The sample size was determined using purposive sampling and the snowball method, and the interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. The data-driven method and Maxqda software were used to analyze the data. According to the findings, the concepts in the subcategories include: causal conditions (power grid instability, non-integrated governance); contextual conditions (energy exchange, power plant capacity money (generation) and technology, modularity, shared production and trust, participatory stability); intervening conditions (governance organizations/policymakers, production and consumption core, production cycle completers); Strategies (decentralization, orchestration, energy pricing, new development investments, diversified financing, foreign energy trade, and win-win self-regulation) and outcomes (network attractiveness, ecosystem attractiveness, multi-dimensionality of low-cost and network interactions, and multiple satisfactions (sovereignty, business, social), and synergistic development flows and increased regional power) were categorized.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

health tourism in the ministry of health education and medical education

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.578813.1720

Gol Zaman Ojaghi, Mohammad Ali Abdolvand, Kambiz Heidarzadeh Hanzaee, Fariz Taherikia

Abstract The aim of this study was to present an indigenous model of health tourism within the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. In terms of purpose, the study is applied, and in terms of nature, it is qualitative with an exploratory approach. It was conducted based on the grounded theory strategy, focusing on the systematic approach of Strauss and Corbin. The required data were collected through in‑depth, semi‑structured interviews with 15 experts in the field of health, tourism strategists, and relevant senior managers. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, and the process continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The data analysis process was carried out in three stages—open coding, axial coding, and selective coding—using the qualitative analysis software MAXQDA18 to ensure accuracy and transparency in extracting categories.The findings of the study led to the extraction of a paradigmatic model, which showed that the indigenous model of health tourism is based on a set of causal conditions, contextual factors, intervening conditions, strategies, and consequences. In the causal conditions section, components such as the quality of medical services, tourism infrastructure, natural factors, transportation, organizational factors, globalization of health services, and destination security were identified. Contextual factors included changes in healthcare costs, the transition toward health supersystems, the attraction of health tourists, and patient experience. The main strategies included institutional coordination, international marketing, national branding, and the promotion of tourism in Iran. Finally, the economic, social, infrastructural, and international outcomes of this model were identified.

Original Article (Quantified) Entrepreneurship

Analysis of the Behavioral Patterns of Generation Z Consumers in Iraq’s Tourism Industry

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.580074.1738

Mustafa Mohammed Kadhim Almusaedi, Ghasem Zarei, Mohammad Bashokouh Ajirlou, Naser Seifollahi Anar

Abstract This study aims to analyze the behavioral patterns of Generation Z consumers in Iraq’s tourism sector. Methodologically, this research is qualitative, employing a thematic analysis approach. The statistical population comprises 20 tourism experts and elites selected through theoretical sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect the data, which were subsequently analyzed using thematic analysis and MAXQDA 2020 software. The research findings revealed eight identified themes: 1) psychological-motivational, 2) digital and media, 3) economic and perceived value, 4) decision-making and destination choice, 5) travel experience and destination consumption, 6) socio-cultural, 7) safety, risk, and trust, and 8) behavioral outcomes. Furthermore, the results indicated that Generation Z—as active, digitally-oriented tourists who demand personalization—has transformed traditional demand patterns. While they seek authentic experiences and interaction with local culture, these experiences must be shareable and recordable in virtual spaces. Additionally, while this generation is highly price-sensitive, they are willing to pay a premium for unique and high-quality experiences. Ultimately, this study highlights the urgent need for policy reforms, the development of digital infrastructure, and the tailoring of tourism services to meet the specific demands of this generation.

Original Article (Mixed) Business Management

Path analysis of the designed model from the impact of causal conditions to the consequences of digital marketing in the active business of the Mashhad leather industry

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.534551.1585

Fahimeh Khajavi Dehshib, Amir Ghafourian Shagerdi, Golnar Shojaei Baghini, Mohammad Reza Rostami

Abstract Marketing has reached a point of transformation where adopting digital trends is essential.Although this seems to put a lot of pressure on marketers,in reality,all automated systems and applications that are based on digital tools require special attention to digital marketing in businesses.The present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the path of the designed model from the impact of causal conditions to the consequences of digital marketing in businesses active in the Mashhad leather industry.The present study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection.The statistical population of this study is all people active in the leather industry,whose number is unknown.The sample size was determined based on the formula of 5to10 times the items in the questionnaire and using a non-random method available to 247people.The data collection tool in this study was a researcher-made standard questionnaire.Cronbach's alpha was used to verify the reliability of the questionnaire,and confirmatory factor analysis was used to verify the validity of the questionnaire.The values obtained indicate the verification of the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.In addition,divergent validity was also confirmed,and data analysis was performed using the structural equation modeling method and smart pls software.The research findings showed that causal conditions have a significant impact on the pivotal phenomenon of digital marketing in the leather industry.The pivotal phenomenon has a significant impact on the underlying conditions,intervening conditions,and strategic factors in the digital marketing of the leather industry.Strategic factors have a significant impact on the outcomes of digital marketing of the leather industry.The results indicate that organizations must move in line with current science and portray innovation and creativity in the world of digital marketing to achieve customer satisfaction.

Original Article (Mixed) Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Identification and Explanation of the Dimensions and Components of Crisis Communication on Social Media in the Tax Administration Organization

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.582376.1750

Hamidreza Abdollahi, Ehtesham Rashidi, Seyed Mohammad Zargar

Abstract The present study aims to identify and explain the dimensions and components of crisis communication in the context of social media (case study: the Tax Administration Organization). In terms of purpose, the research is applied–developmental, and methodologically it is a mixed-method (qualitative–quantitative) exploratory study.The statistical population in the qualitative phase consisted of 25 university professors and experts from the Tax Administration Organization who were selected through purposive sampling. The statistical population in the quantitative phase included 131 managers and specialists of the Tax Administration Organization. The sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula and selected through simple random sampling.Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis was employed to identify the dimensions and components. In the quantitative phase, confirmatory factor analysis using SmartPLS software was applied to test and validate the findings obtained from the qualitative stage.Based on the findings, all identified variables were confirmed. The results indicate that the development of crisis communication through the capacities of social media is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon which, if implemented in a scientific and systematic manner, can provide numerous benefits and advantages for governmental organizations.

Original Article (Qualitative) Business Management

Designing a Customer Relationship Management Marketing Process Model in Digital Platforms of the Banking Industry

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 21 December 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.518413.1561

majid kasirloo, seyyed mehdi Jalali, tahere hasoomi

Abstract The aim of this research is to design a marketing process model for customer relationship management in digital platforms of the banking industry. The research method is applied in terms of its purpose and qualitative in terms of its implementation. The statistical population of the study included 16 marketing experts, academics, and banking industry managers, selected through purposive or snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Data analysis and coding were conducted in grounded theory. Based on the results of qualitative analysis, five categories of overarching categories were identified, including: causal factors of the customer relationship management model in digital platforms in the banking industry (technology, organizational, individual, technological factors) Phenomenon-oriented factors (electronic channels, company organization, employee empowerment) Strategic factors (electronic marketing, customer interaction, internal exchanges, learning and innovation) Contextual factors (trust-building behavior) Intervening factors (political factors, organizational factors) The outcomes (customer satisfaction and loyalty, customer trust) were identified. The results of the quantitative section, while confirming the research hypotheses, showed that the proposed model has appropriate validity.

Original Article (Quantified) Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

The impact of supply chain capabilities and knowledge management capabilities on business performance

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 21 December 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.585993.1763

Saeed Rasti, Alireza Moghaddasi

Abstract Purpose - This study examines the impact of supply chain capabilities and knowledge management capabilities on the business performance of chain stores with a mediating role of competitive advantage. This study provides the better understanding about key constructs such as supply chain capabilities and knowledge management capabilities that influence Mashhad chain stores business performance.

Design/methodology/approach - This research is applied in terms of purpose, descriptive in nature and method, and survey-causal. Causal research design is used to identify cause-and-effect relationship among the constructs. The authors derive measures of the model from existing literature and expert opinion. Questionnaire method is used to gathering data. The statistical population of the study were managers and employees of finance, marketing, research and development, distribution and information technology, as well as suppliers of different branches of first-level chain stores in Mashhad, Iran, including Shahrema, Refah, Ofogh Kourosh, Hypermi, Bama and Etka. The author develops a conceptual model for the business performance of chain stores. This study uses a quantitative approach to test the proposed hypotheses, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and SPSS and AMOS software.

Findings - Results show that supply chain capabilities significantly influence competitive advantage and business performance, and knowledge management capabilities significantly influence competitive advantage and business performance. Also, competitive advantage mediating the impact of supply chain capabilities and knowledge management capabilities on the business performance.

Originality/value – Almost, no study has examined supply chain capabilities and knowledge management capabilities constructs related to competitive advantage and business performance of Mashhad chain stores. The findings of this study imply several practical directions for them.

Original Article (Mixed) Entrepreneurship

Presenting a model of smart technologies in improving customer relations, a case study of Iraqi companies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 11 March 2027

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2026.585266.1760

Mohammad Basem Mahmood, mohammad Bashokuh, hossein rahimi, Ghasem zarei

Abstract The main objective of this study was to present a coherent model for the role of smart technologies in improving customer relationships so that organizations can use these capabilities to create competitive advantage. This research was, in nature, fundamental-applied research with a mixed exploratory approach (qualitative-quantitative). In the qualitative part, by adopting the grounded theory method (Corbin and Strauss version), they sought to discover relationships and build a theoretical model from empirical data. The statistical population of the research was composed of managers, activists, and expert professors in the field of marketing and the banking industry with at least 5 years of relevant work experience. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, and the purposive and theoretical sampling process continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, which ultimately led to interviews with 21 people. Data analysis was conducted in three coding stages (open, axial, and selective). The results of the selective coding showed that the improvement of customer relationships through intelligent technologies was organized around a dynamic, three-level cycle that included organizational and strategic antecedents (such as infrastructure readiness and cultural fit), implementation components (including real-time analysis of interaction data and dynamic customer engagement), and dual outcomes (such as improving the customer’s emotional experience and increasing operational efficiency). The model confirmed that to succeed in intelligent engagement, organizations must first focus on fundamental readiness so that they can achieve outcomes such as intelligent adaptation to customer needs and improved decision-making speed through analytical technologies. Overall, the developed model not only provided a comprehensive theoretical framework for researchers, but also a practical guide for managers to transform intelligent technologies into a sustainable competitive advantage in customer relationship management.

Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

The Role of Flow Theory in Viral Promotional Advergames: An exploration of Forwarding the Game and Sharing Personal Data

Volume 3, Issue 2, Summer 2023, Pages 80-109

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.401093.1113

Mostafa Heidari Haratemeh

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research was to investigate the role of Flow theory in viral promotional advergames with an emphasis on sharing personal data and forwarding the games. Using a viral marketing campaign, 393 out of 765 participants clicked on the game link sent via email, But 288 people participated in the game, 141 people answered the questions, invited their friends to the game, or shared their personal data. Poisson regression was used to investigate the role of Flow theory on game forwarding, and logistic regression was used on sharing personal data through Eviews software. Players with intrinsic enjoyment and psychological Flow (dimensions of Flow) tend to invite more people to the game and share more personal data about themselves. Perceived reward value is also positively related to game forwarding behaviors, although not related to sharing personal data. That is, players seem to communicate more about the game when they have extrinsic motivation (rewards), but are less likely to share personal data with the brand. On the other hand, extrinsically motivated players still have significant privacy concerns. In contrast, Flow is positively related to sharing personal data, suggesting that fully immersed players tend to "lose themselves" and forget about their more conscious concerns and thus appear more likely to share personal data with the brand. Companies that want to capture customers' personal data should focus more on designing game elements than rewards in such a way as to stimulate the psychological Flow of the players. Extended Abstract Introduction The implementation of viral marketing in the framework of launching a viral campaign in the form of a video or an attractive content in the form of a game is produced and then advertised online to the target audience. Basically, users are quickly attracted to this ad and share it widely. The virality of an advertisement or message in the form of a game is done randomly and is suddenly welcomed by many people, but the design and implementation of viral campaigns requires a lot of planning and creativity to be able to manage it during the campaign activity, so that it moves on the right track. In this regard, games are an important part of advertising campaigns and have attracted a lot of attention from academics and experts in this field. Previous research has been mostly about in-game advertising or advertising games and the distinction between them (Castiblanco Jimenez, I.A. et al.,2023). Viral Promotional Advergames combine a prize advertising game with an advertising game in a viral marketing campaign aimed at encouraging word of mouth to drive immediate responses and behavioral reactions from players towards goals such as; sharing personal data; forwarding the Game to friends lead to increase consumer knowledge of the brand and improve their attitude towards that brand. In this regard, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's Flow Theory (1975) is used, which considers Flow as a special mental state that appears when performing an action, in which the actor focuses on a task in such a way that he has a sense of adherence to, and completely Flows/immerses himself in the work and the satisfaction of the process of doing the work. In fact, he is so engrossed in doing it that he doesn't feel time, place, tiredness, hunger or unhappiness and concentrates on pursuing his work. But when they did the work, they lost that attachment and focus (Lavoie, R., & Main, K. 2019). In fact, the result of the work is not so important for these people, but it is the nature of the work they are doing is important to them. In the current research, it is investigated what factors will lead to such behavior, such as the mental state that these people experience while engaging in their profession and skills, and which is called the Flow state. It is a state in which a person is so engrossed in a task that nothing else matters to him, and this experience is so enjoyable that it is done only for its own sake. No studies have addressed the Flow experience in the context of viral advergames. Flow in the game, including enjoying and disappearing in the game, directs the responses and immediate behavioral reactions of the players towards actions such as forwarding the game and sharing personal data, and in the marketing process it plays as an important strategy for advertising or comprehensive advertising of a brand, product or service(Kim, Yoon Jeon & Ifenthaler, Dirk. 2019). Finally, the main question is how the Flow theory in Viral Promotional Advergames can lead players to forwarding games to friends and others and sharing personal data?. Theoretical framework Games have evolved over time and with the advancement of technology. An emerging form of gamification is designed as part of viral marketing campaigns, where consumers play the gambit to win sales promotions. The target consumers of such games are mostly adults rather than children. During the game, players can increase their chances of winning if they share their personal data or if they invite their friends to play the game. To distinguish this type of game, which is a combination of a promotional game for the purpose of a prize with an advertising game for the purpose of advertising in a viral marketing campaign, the term Viral Promotional Advergames is used. Due to the nature of advertising games, Viral Promotional Advergames often contain advertising messages of a brand and try to increase one's perception of the brand's status and attract positive consumer opinion (Zhao, Z., & Renard, D. 2018). Also, viral advergames are often designed as contests that allow consumers to win prizes due to luck or skill, and are intended to elicit immediate behavioral responses, with the promise of an increased chance of winning if those behaviors are performed. Previous literature describes consumers' cognitive and affective perceptions of different types of games, although it mainly focuses on children as participants. The current research examines adult gamers' behavioral reactions to Viral Promotional Advergames: namely, sharing personal data and Forwarding games. In addition, it examines how the internal and external values of adult players motivate such behaviors. Extensive empirical research confirms that Flow theory influences consumers' cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses such as attitudes, behavioral intentions, and actual behaviors (Sarkar, J.G., Sarkar, A. and Sreejesh, S. 2023). A few researchers have applied Flow theory to advergames, but no studies have addressed experiences of Flow theory in the context of viral advergames or examined specific consumer behavioral outcomes of sharing personal data and game Forwarding. For the measurement of drowning, the existing approaches are either unidimensional or multidimensional. Multidimensionality typically includes attributes such as challenge, mastery, control, focus, enjoyment, curiosity, arousal, involvement, playfulness, telepresence, and time distortion. One popular unidimensional measure relies on perceived playfulness, as with more immersive games, enjoyment and concentration have stronger effects on player perception and behavior. Playfulness exists to some extent in any activity in which one freely engages. This structure is reflected in the two dimensions of pleasure and intellectual freedom (disappearing into work). Both dimensions indicate a state of psychological Flow. Both intrinsic and extrinsic benefits can stimulate social sharing behaviors. With regard to intrinsic benefits, emotional diffusion theory suggests that social sharing occurs when people need to share their evoked emotional experience with others (Lavoie, Raymond & Main, Kelley & Stuart-Edwards, Anastasia. 2022). According to the existing literature, intrinsic enjoyment leads to a stronger intention to participate in online word-of-mouth advertising. Perceived playfulness implies a sense of engagement that is inherently pleasurable, creating a positive emotional state. In the context of Viral Promotional Advergames, players' enjoyment of the game should lead to more positive evaluations, which increases the value of sharing personal data and Forwarding the game. Methodology This research is applicable in terms of purpose, cross-sectional survey method in terms of method, and purposeful and accessible in terms of selection of the research sample. In this study, data was collected using a pre-test-post-test method with a real viral marketing campaign. An advertising game was created for a weekly cultural magazine (at the request of magazine officials, magazine details are not reported) and data was collected during the campaign. Subscribers are people who provide their email address in exchange for promotional offers. In the pre-test stage, subject to the respondents' agreement to participate in the survey, in the first step, they received an email with a self-administered questionnaire about their attitude towards the weekly brand. In the post-test phase, participants received another email asking them to participate in a viral advertising game and to allow their behavioral data to be collected during the game for research purposes. At last, 393 out of the 765 participants clicked on the game link sent via email, but 288 participated in the game; and 141 people answered the questions, invited their friends to the game, or shared their personal data. Finally, Poisson regression was used to investigate the role of Flow theory on game forwarding and logistic regression was used on sharing personal data through Eviews software. Discussion and Results  Flow is positively related to game Forwarding and personal data sharing behaviors, such that if games elicit higher levels of enjoyment and concentration, the players may also be more willing to share personal data and Forward games. While the perceived value of prizes has a positive and significant effect on Forwarding games by players, it will not have a significant effect on sharing personal data. Also, prior attitudes towards the brand moderate the effect of perceived value of rewards on game Forwarding behavior. Also, players with inner pleasure and psychological Flow (dimensions of Flow) are more inclined to invite more people to the game and share more personal data about themselves. Perceived reward value is also positively related to game Forwarding behaviors, although not related to sharing personal data. That is, players appear to communicate more about the game when extrinsically motivated, but are less likely to share personal data with the brand. On the other hand, extrinsically motivated players still have significant privacy concerns. In contrast, perceived playfulness is positively related to personal data sharing, suggesting that fully immersed players tend to "lose themselves" and forget their more conscious concerns. As a result, they seem more likely to share personal data with the brand. Another interesting result comes from the absence of a reciprocal relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation with regard to both behaviors. The reason can be the complexity of external rewards in this study. Conclusion Players with intrinsic enjoyment and psychological Flow (dimensions of Flow) tend to invite more people to the game and share more personal data about themselves, and perceived reward value is also positively related to game forwarding behaviors, although not related to sharing personal data. That is, players seem to communicate more about the game when they have extrinsic motivation (rewards), but are less likely to share personal data with the brand. Therefore, it is suggested; Companies that want to obtain customers' personal data should focus more on the design of game elements rather than prizes because the perceived value of prizes does not seem to have a significant and meaningful effect on the sharing of personal data. Games should also be designed in such a way as to induce psychological Flow/immersion in players; that is, game design elements should optimize the Flow or peak situation. On the other hand, companies that want to encourage players to submit their game should focus on both game design and prize placement, and prizes should be offered at different value levels to bias players' evaluations of more prizes. Previous research shows the importance of Flow for predicting learning, control, exploratory behaviors, positive subjective experiences, and other behavioral intentions (Lavoie & Main, 2019). Whereas, no previous studies have addressed the experience of Flowing/peaking in the context of Viral Promotional Advergames or examining Sharing Personal Data and game forwarding behaviors. With a field study of a real campaign of Viral Promotional Advergames, real data on player behavior is collected and how the intrinsic Flow/peak and extrinsic value of rewards are related to player behavior is measured. To measure intrinsic Flow/peak, players' perception of game playfulness was assessed (Chen, L.; Zhou, P.; Xiao, H. 2023). The results show that immersion in the game (enjoyment and immersion in the game) is positively related to game forwarding and Sharing Personal Data behaviors, while the external criterion related to the perceived value of rewards is positively related to game forwarding, but not to Sharing Personal Data. Furthermore, prior brand attitudes (prior to playing viral promotional games) moderate the effect of perceived value of rewards on game forwarding behavior.

Other topics related to business management andEntrepreneurship

Investigating factors affecting the financial recovery of businesses admitted to the stock exchange

Volume 4, Issue 3, Autumn 2024, Pages 455-480

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.405347.1131

Fatemeh Sahraei, Jafar Jamali, Hamidreza Vakilifard, Ali Zare, Seyed Yaghoub Zeraatkish

Abstract The current research has been conducted with the aim of investigating the factors affecting the financial recovery of businesses admitted to the stock exchange. This research is an interdisciplinary study; a combination of legal and financial topics with qualitative and quantitative data. In this regard, 144 companies were studied as a statistical sample of the research in the 12-year period of 2010-2021 based on the screening process. The findings of the research showed that, in the examination of the goodness of fit indices of the model, it can be seen that, based on the McFadden coefficient of determination index, the use of predictor variables in the final model of the financial recovery of companies has been able to improve the likelihood function by 71.25%. That is, it can be concluded that the main forecasting components in the final model have been able to be effective up to 71.25% in the accuracy of detecting the financial recovery of companies. Finally, the analysis of multilayer artificial neural networks in order to evaluate the reliability of the results in diagnosing and prioritizing the financial recovery of companies shows that, therefore, considering that the tenth principal component is the most important factor in the financial recovery of companies, and citing the magnitude (absolute value) of the coefficients of each variable in the formation of this component, the order of the importance of financial variables in the financial recovery of companies and their exit from bankruptcy can be determined.
Extended Abstract                                          
Introduction
Financial helplessness refers to a situation in which the company cannot fully fulfill its obligations to financial providers, and faces difficulties in fulfilling them. Financial helplessness does not necessarily lead to bankruptcy, and a set of management measures to get out of helplessness or rehabilitation can save the company from the risk of entering the bankruptcy stage (Mherani et al, 2021). The growth and revival of the company is the result of exploiting the opportunities. In fact, a company has limited resources that it uses as necessary tools to achieve growth in facing upcoming opportunities (Hussain & Waseer, 2018). Company growth has been studied by many researchers and different terms have been used to define its stages. But most researchers agree that the growth and revitalization of the company is a process. In other words, every company is born like a child, then it starts to grow and in this way it faces various challenges and crises until it finally matures and then dissolves. In this path, there are several factors that help the company's success and allow it to move from one stage to another. Of course, there are two different thoughts among researchers in this regard; some of them believe that the company's economic growth path is linear and predictable. But some others believe that the company's growth is the result of taking advantage of opportunities and is unpredictable (Guha et al, 2013).
Manufacturing companies active in the stock market, which are considered as the main players in the economy of any country, play an important role in increasing the national income. Regardless of paying taxes to the government, companies create many job opportunities and provide them with the opportunity to pay taxes to the government by hiring and paying jobseekers. Also, companies play an important role in improving the foreign balance of the country by exporting their goods to other countries. On the other hand, bankrupt companies lose the ability to pay taxes to the government and are forced to fire their employees; which brings many social and political problems. Also, since bankrupt companies are unable to pay their loans, they create problems for lending institutions (Yan & Vedoud, 2019). Therefore, this research, referring to the concept of asset pricing models of Black and Schulz; which emphasizes on the intrinsic value of debts and assets, paying attention to the importance of bankruptcy and exit and in the continuation of rehabilitation, has examined the factors affecting financial rehabilitation of businesses accepted in the stock exchange, and in fact, the main question of the research is: what factors are effective on the financial recovery of bankrupt companies in the stock exchange?
 
Theoretical Framework
Financial rehabilitation (exit from bankruptcy)
Company rehabilitation is a process in which the weak performance status of the company changes and its performance indicators improve (Berandez & Berg, 2020). When some organizations experience a financial crisis and face challenging and deteriorating operating margins, financial revival means a significant improvement in operational margins and financial health of the organization (Ghazavi, 2018). The financial recovery of the business unit is a process based on which the weak performance status of the company is changed and the performance indicators are improved (Brandes & Brege, 2012).
 
Financial recovery strategies
The increase in the bankruptcy of business units due to the economic situation attracted the attention of researchers to this field and caused research to be found to provide a model to predict the exit from helplessness of helpless companies. With the increase in the scope of the financial crisis, managers of companies in crisis have increased their efforts to implement strategies that will save them from bankruptcy and stop their decline. In this regard, some of them use the strategy of cost reduction (Bruton & Rubanik, 2016) and asset restructuring (Sudarsanam & Lai, 2017; Hambrick & Schecter, 2014) for revival, and others consider the reorganization of the company's debts.
Dzingirai & Baporikar (2022) in a research titled "Trends and patterns in revitalization strategies" state that the most important aspect of strategic management should be the ability to respond to a world that is changing rapidly and with an increasing trend. The purpose of implementing this strategy is to take measures aimed at reducing the effects of change among organizations. As a result, it seems that the present time is the most ideal time to analyze the existing articles in this field from the perspective of bibliography. The role of revitalization strategies in strategic management articles cannot be underestimated. Three revitalization strategies, i.e. retrenchment, restructuring, and reorganization have led to the spread of articles related to the mainstream revitalization.
Ramalho & Diogo (2021) found that operational structure restructuring measures play an important role in the revitalization process of any company. In addition, this study shows that the managers of American companies during the considered time period, regardless of the effectiveness of the strategies, give more importance to financial restructuring measures.
 
Research methodology
This research is an interdisciplinary study; a combination of legal and financial topics with qualitative and quantitative data. In this regard, 144 companies were studied as a statistical sample of the research in the 12-year period of 2010-2021 based on the screening process.
 
Research findings
The findings of the research showed that, in the examination of the goodness of fit indices of the model, it can be seen that, based on the McFadden coefficient of determination index, the use of predictor variables in the final model of the financial recovery of companies has been able to improve the likelihood function by 71.25%. That is, it can be concluded that the main forecasting components in the final model have been able to be effective up to 71.25% in the accuracy of detecting the financial recovery of companies. Finally, the analysis of multilayer artificial neural networks in order to evaluate the reliability of the results in diagnosing and prioritizing the financial recovery of companies shows that, therefore, considering that the tenth principal component is the most important factor in the financial recovery of companies, and citing the magnitude (absolute value) of the coefficients of each variable in the formation of this component, the order of the importance of financial variables in the financial recovery of companies and their exit from bankruptcy can be determined.
 
Conclusion
The current research was conducted with the aim of investigating the factors affecting the financial recovery of businesses admitted to the stock exchange. The findings of the Ramalho, Diogo Miguel Pacífico (2021), Kazemzadeh & Moazami (2019), and Dzingirai & Baporikar (2022) also identified and introduced factors for the revival of companies in line with the results of this research. The artificial neural network composed of the main components in this research can correctly predict 90.9% of the bankruptcy or non-bankruptcy situations of companies, which can be confirmed by the research results of Lee (2021), Barzegar & Haedari (2017), and Wanita & Grace (2021) based on the acceptable and high power of the artificial neural network in the detection of aligned bankruptcy. Finally, for the revival of bankrupt companies in the stock exchange, suggestions for officials and legislators with regard to the research findings are presented:
- It is suggested to the Ministry of Security to make the necessary inquiries from the bankruptcy liquidation department of the provincial judiciary before issuing a license for production units that have been closed down or bankrupted, and provide the necessary background within the framework of laws and regulations for the activation of closed or semi-closed production units, with the least capital and the least cost, to activate the huge capital stagnant in them.
 

business management

Designing and explaining the model of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance considering B2B marketing capabilities

Volume 3, Issue 2, Summer 2023, Pages 20-41

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.389185.1069

meysam karamipour

Abstract Abstract
The purpose of this research is to design a model of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance, taking into account business-to-business marketing capabilities. The research method is exploratory (qualitative-quantitative). In the qualitative part, it is considered with the Shannon entropy approach, and in the quantitative part, it is descriptive-survey. The participants of the present research in the qualitative part are faculty members and elites of artificial intelligence and marketing and management, which was conducted with 14 people based on the theoretical saturation rule, and in the quantitative part, the 540number of executive directors of industrial towns in northern Iran, of which 190 were selected as statistics sample. The data collection tool was semi-structured interview in the qualitative part, and researcher made questionnaire in the quantitative part. The method of data analysis was selected in the quantitative part of confirmatory factor analysis tests using SmartPLS software. The results showed that the mechanisms of artificial intelligence competencies have an effect on business-to-business marketing capabilities and organizational performance, and also the model of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance is confirmed considering the aspect of business-to-business marketing capabilities.
Extended Abstract
Introduction
The huge increase in the amount of data along with access to processing power capabilities and storage space on digital devices, have attracted new attention in the last few years to artificial intelligence in several fields and scientific courses (Enholm et al., 2021). The intense competition among organizations around the world has also accelerated the need to use artificial intelligence to achieve a competitive advantage over competitors (Ransbotham et al., 2018). Most C-level executives do not see AI as a core competency that organizations must employ to remain competitive in the long term (Kietzmann & Pitt, 2020). One of the key areas of using artificial intelligence in organizational activities has been business-to-business marketing (Mikalef et al., 2021). Smart solutions are needed to enhance business-to-business marketing capabilities in a complex business environment, because business-to-business operations are often associated with enormous information complexity and the need to make quick decisions. In this sense, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize the way of performing common activities due to the ability to process increasing amounts of data and provide rich insights about key business partners and customers (Bag et al., 2021). In addition, it has been stated that artificial intelligence applications enable the automation of many manual processes, and this can help eliminate bottlenecks and increase operational efficiency in business-to-business activities (Paschen et al., 2020). In fact, a recent survey study on corporate executives conducted by Garner showed that the majority believe that artificial intelligence is likely to become a key development in their organization in the next few years (Shin & Kang, 2022).
Therefore, the main questions of this research are: What effect does artificial intelligence competencies have on organizational performance considering the B2B variable? Through what mechanism, the effects of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance are realized? And finally, what is the model of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance considering the aspect of B2B marketing capabilities?
Theoretical framework
Until now, there is not a complete understanding of how organizations should plan the development of artificial intelligence and turn it into a strategic asset applicable to achieve a competitive advantage. This issue is very evident and prominent in the field of business-to-business marketing, because there is still very little knowledge about the impact of artificial intelligence and the potential mechanisms of value generation from such technologies (Huang et al., 2019). Understanding the value of AI in business-to-business marketing and how to achieve it is critical to reducing the number of failed initiatives within organizations, as well as accelerating the development of AI in these types of operations. Similarly, recent survey studies of industry professionals show that there are still a number of significant bottlenecks preventing the adoption and use of AI that go beyond technical challenges. In addition, from the point of view of many managers, the value of adopting artificial intelligence is still not clear and certain, which prevents its further application in key organizational operations (Bhalerao et al., 2022). A recent study by McKinsey noted that the most popular use cases for AI in organizations relate to optimizing business-to-business marketing and service processes, and this is where respondents placed the most value. However, there are still several challenges associated with realizing such value by investing in AI and specifically with creating an AI competency that can always support business needs (McKinsey, 2022). To address this gap, this study uses the core competence theory (Prahalad, 1993) and provides a definition of the use of artificial intelligence within organizational boundaries, following the key followers of this theory. Especially, we express the concept of artificial intelligence competence as a central competence of organizations, which indicates the need for creative and coordinated use of artificial intelligence. The stated theories explain that organizations able to develop an artificial intelligence competency are organizations that are able to realize a competitive advantage over their competitors; because the application of artificial intelligence is unique in nature and requires comprehensive efforts from various organizational entities to produce artificial intelligence applications difficult to imitate and add value.
Methodology
In the current research, a systematic approach is used. This approach inductively uses a systematic set of procedures to formulate a theory in relation to a phenomenon. Content analysis is one of the documentary methods that deal with the systematic, objective, quantitative and generalizable examination of communication messages. This method is considered a concealer in the classification of methods, and it is used to check the obvious content of the messages in a text, and as a result, it does not enter into the interpretation and semiotics of the message content. The Delphi method is a structured communication method or technique that was originally invented and developed for the purpose of systematic and interactive forecasting by relying on the deliberation of experts. This method used in future research mainly pursues goals such as discovering innovative and reliable ideas or providing appropriate information for decision making. The Delphi method is a structured process for collecting and classifying the knowledge available to a group of experts, which is done through the distribution of questionnaires among these people and the controlled feedback of the answers and opinions received. Research method is fundamental-applied according to the goal; mixed (qualitative-quantitative) of sequential exploratory type according to the type of data; cross-sectional according to the time of data collection; and descriptive-survey according to the method of data collection or the nature and method of the research.
Discussion and Results
According to the results of Shannon's entropy technique for evaluating the capabilities of artificial intelligence, it can be seen that all the dimensions and indicators were higher than the average level of the group's weight, and remain in the model. Therefore, using the results of semi-structured interviews and inspired by the theoretical and empirical literature of the research, the identified categories will be categorized as described in the table below. As mentioned in the previous discussions, the sample size in the qualitative part of the research follows the principle of theoretical saturation, which is reflected in the next table on how to reach theoretical saturation.
Conclusion
The main goal of this research was to design a model of artificial intelligence competencies on organizational performance, considering the aspect of business-to-business marketing capabilities. The research method was exploratory (qualitative-quantitative). It was taken into account with the Delphi technique approach in the qualitative part, and descriptive-survey in the quantitative part. The participants of the present research in the qualitative part were academic faculty members and elites of artificial intelligence and marketing and management, which was conducted with 14 people based on the theoretical saturation rule; and in the quantitative part, 540 people of the industrial managers of the industrial towns in northern Iran, of which 190 people were selected a statistical sample. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview in the qualitative part, and a researcher-made questionnaire in the quantitative part. The method of data analysis was carried out in the quantitative part of confirmatory factor analysis tests using SmartPLS software. One of the goals of this research was to try to understand whether, and under what conditions, artificial intelligence can lead to organizational value for companies. In order to answer this question, we grounded artificial intelligence based on the theory of core competencies. Therefore, the competencies of artificial intelligence were considered from the aspect of one of the key organizational capabilities that has the potential to create a competitive advantage for organizations. Therefore, the competencies of artificial intelligence are not only understood from the technical aspect, but also include management's ability to creatively anticipate applications that add value to the organization and include the ability to experience and test new methods of using artificial intelligence. Also, based on this approach, AI competency is considered as a core competency that organizations should strive to enhance, rather than just an ancillary and auxiliary set of capabilities that can support certain operations.
 

Business Management

The effect of e-satisfaction and trust on online repurchase intention through the mediation of ease of use and moderation of customers' online experience

Volume 3, Issue 1, Spring 2023, Pages 57-81

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2023.392081.1081

Alireza Rousta, elnaz allafjafari, majid ahmadi

Abstract The aim of the research is to the effect of electronic satisfaction and trust on the intention to repurchase online by mediating the ease of use and moderating the online experience of customers in the digital store. In terms of purpose, the research method is practical; and based on the method of data collection, it is descriptive of causal type. The statistical population of the research is the customers of the digital goods store, which according to Cochran's formula for the unknown population size, the sample number was 384 people. The data was collected through a standard questionnaire and then analyzed by structural equation modeling method and using smart pls 3 software. The findings show that electronic trust and satisfaction variables had a significant effect on ease of use, and electronic trust and satisfaction and ease of use had a significant effect on online repurchase intention. Also, electronic trust and satisfaction have a significant effect on the intention to repurchase online with the mediating role of ease of use, which was confirmed by the Sobel test with a z-value of 2.374 for electronic satisfaction and 2.805 for electronic trust. Online customer experience moderates the relationship between customer satisfaction and online repurchase intention, and online experience moderates the relationship between online trust and online repurchase intention. Extended Abstract Introduction Today, online shopping has grown tremendously, and technological advancements have made shopping experiences significantly more efficient, transparent, and easy; and customers have become more aware of the value of online shopping with the growth and availability of e-commerce platforms worldwide, more price transparency, and faster delivery time (Delgosha & Hajiheydari, 2020). Increasing competition in the market has forced businesses to create stronger relationships with their customers, which has a positive effect on their repurchase decisions (Antwi, 2021). Repurchase intention is a situation in which consumers decide to buy products or services from the same company for the second time (Naghdi, 2021). To maintain a market presence, customer needs must be accurately understood; which helps the market to improve customer trust by improving service quality, and increase customer satisfaction and encourage the desire to buy (Putri et al, 2023). A study is needed to understand how e-commerce creates trust and satisfaction in its consumers. The main issue of the current research is whether electronic satisfaction and trust affect online repurchase intention through the mediation of ease of use and moderation of the online experience of customers. Theoretical Framework Nabila et al., (2023) showed in a study that ease of use and trust have a positive and significant effect on the intention to repurchase online. Also, customer trust has a positive and significant effect on electronic satisfaction. Abdulmaleki & et al, (2023), shows that satisfaction and enjoyable electronic experience play a mediating role in the relationship between electronic service quality and purchase intention. Wijaya & Nurcaya (2017) argue that satisfaction is a consumer feeling in which customers feel the best that a company offers. The effect of satisfaction certainly leads to repurchase intention for certain companies or products. Methodology Due to the use of a new approach, the current research is considered applicable, which was carried out using a causal survey-descriptive method. The statistical population of the Digikala store customer research, which was obtained to determine the number of samples according to Cochran's formula for the size of the unknown population, was 384 numbers of people. It has been analyzed by SPSS and SMART PLS3 software. To collect and measure data, a 20-item questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale was used as follows: The questionnaire of Ginting et al., (2023) with 5 items in the repurchase part, the questionnaire of Barbu et al., (2021) with 3 items for ease of use of, the questionnaire of Nabila et al., (2023) with 4 items for electronic trust, the questionnaire of Barbu et al., (2021) with 5 items for customer experience, and the questionnaire of Ginting et al., (2023) with 3 items in the electronic satisfaction section were used. Also, its validity has been confirmed by professors and experts, and its reliability by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Discussion and Results First hypothesis: there is a significant relationship between electronic trust and ease of use. It was observed that the T-statistic between the two variables is equal to 7.608, since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, electronic trust has a significant effect on ease of use. Second hypothesis: there is a significant relationship between electric trust and online repurchase intention. It was observed that the t-statistic between two variables is equal to 2.043, and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, electronic trust has a significant effect on the intention to buy online. Third hypothesis: There is a significant relationship between electronic satisfaction and ease of use. The t-statistic values between the two variables are equal to 3.566, and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, electronic satisfaction has a significant effect on the ease of use. Fourth hypothesis: There is a significant relationship between electronic satisfaction and online repurchase intention. Also, the t-statistic between the two variables was observed as 5.994 and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, the hypothesis of electronic satisfaction has a significant effect on online purchase intention. Fifth hypothesis: There is a significant relationship between ease of use and repurchase intention. The t-statistic between the two variables is equal to 3.001. And since this value is greater than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, ease of use positively and significantly affects the intention to buy online. Sixth hypothesis: there is a significant relationship between electronic trust in online purchase intention and the mediating role of ease of use. The T-statistic between the two variables was found to be 2.842, and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, electronic trust has a positive and significant effect on the intention to buy online with the mediating role of ease of use. Seventh hypothesis: There is a significant relationship between electronic satisfaction on online purchase intention and the mediating role of ease of use. Also, the t-statistic between the two variables was observed as 2.152, and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, electronic satisfaction has an effect on on-line purchase intention with the mediating role of ease of use, and ease of use can be a mediator for on-line purchase intention, which indicates the customers' satisfaction. Hypothesis 8: Online customer experience moderates the relationship between e-trust and on-line repurchase intention. The t-statistic between the two variables is equal to 2.002, and since this value is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, it can be concluded that with at least 95% confidence, online customer experience moderates the relationship between customer trust and online repurchase intention. Hypothesis 9: Online customer experience moderates the relationship between e-satisfaction and online repurchase intention. The value of the t-statistic between the two variables is equal to 2.666, and is higher than the borderline value of 1.96, as a result, with at least 95% confidence, online customer experience moderates the relationship between customer satisfaction and online repurchase intention. Conclusion The results of the first hypothesis are consistent with the researches of Wilson et al, (2021) and Anifa (2022). Therefore, increasing the trust of customers makes it possible for them to pay less attention to the problems related to the purchase with a mental set and practical plan suitable for a successful trading experience, which increases the ease of use.
The results of the second hypothesis are in line with the researches of Puti et al, (2023) and Ikhsan & Lestari (2021). If the managers of the marketing department can promote trust in electronic environments among their customers during the purchase process and try to create transparency about the process of carrying out activities in the store, they can believe that the purchase process be repeated The results of the third hypothesis show that the higher the level of consumer satisfaction, the easier the use of the products. Consumers provide a good evaluation of service and product performance for the satisfaction they feel from purchasing a product or service. The results of the fourth phase are consistent with the researches of Ginting et al, (2023) and Anifa (2022). Marketing stimuli that look different in augmented reality can give a distinct impression to consumers, creating a sense of satisfaction in the shopping experience and encouraging repeat purchases. The results of the fifth hypothesis are consistent with the researches of Nabila et al, (2023) and Anifa (2022). Ease of use can make customers repurchase existing products because of ease of use. The results of the sixth hypothesis are in line with the researches of Wilson (2019) and Subagio et al, (2018). It shows that the user's perceived ease of trial feature of the virtual product can mediate the repurchase intention relationship that is used with trust. The results of the seventh hypothesis are in line with the research of Nabila et al, (2023) and Diyanti, Syarifa Yulindar (2021). The results of the eighth hypothesis are in line with Miao et al., (2022). Internet stores should take a creative approach to meet the needs of customers and increase customer trust by creating appropriate platforms. The results in the ninth hypothesis were in line with the research Miao et al, (2022). The more positive experiences received from the product from a store, the more satisfied the customer will be with the store, and as a result, he will consider the positive experience as a suitable frame in his mind, and the more likely he is to repeat the purchase of the products.

The effect of green transformational leadership on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture and environmental concerns

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2022, Pages 93-113

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2022.329053.1014

Mustafa Turki, Milad Kalantari Shahijan, Asadollah Alirezaei

Abstract Abstract The main purpose of the current study is to investigate the impact of green transformational leadership on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture and environmental concerns of employees in industrial units of Shahrekord. This study is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection. Green transformational leadership was measured using the six-item scale developed by Singh (2020), environmental concern was measured using the five-item scale developed by Frang and Martens (2006), green behavior was measured using the sixteen-item scale developed by Hassanpour (2020), and also green organizational culture was measured using the nineteen-item scale developed by Stanstie et al (2021). The statistical population of this study was 510 employees, among which a sample including 219 employees in industrial units of Shahrekord was selected by Morgan table, and the questionnaires were distributed among them by simple random sampling. SPSS and Smart PLS softwares were used to analyze the data as well as hypotheses testing. The results showed that green transformational leadership has a positive effect on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture. The results also indicated that green transformational leadership had a positive effect on green behavior with the mediating role of environmental concerns. Extended Abstract Introduction The first way to have a sustainable environment is to identify the factors that threaten it and take action to reduce the impact of these factors. Therefore, the environment is currently considered a global issue for everyone, including organizations (Adriana et al, 2020), so that stopping destruction and efforts to increase the quality of the environment are among the challenges considered as the front line of organizations. Recently, the green behavior of employees at the workplace has been in the focus of organizational researchers because the evidence indicates that the individual behavior of employees can play an important role in the environmental performance of the organization and improve it. Behaviors that strengthen or weaken environmental sustainability by employees, which occur voluntarily or involuntarily and are also measurable, are called green employee behavior (Xiao et al, 2020). Past studies show that when leaders implement green transformational leadership, they positively affect corporate environmental responsibility and green behavior. Green transformational leadership is a style of leadership that inspires its followers to achieve environmental goals and motivates them to perform and behave green beyond expectations. One of the categories that seems to be able to facilitate the effect of green transformational leadership on the green behaviors of employees is the attitude of employees. Attitude is defined as a person's emotional tendency when he evaluates something positively or negatively (Farhadinejad et al, 2019). According to the mentioned materials, the main problem of the research is whether green transformational leadership has a positive and significant effect on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture and environmental concerns in the industrial units of Shahrekord city. Theoretical Framework Green transformational leadership, theory-based evidence and experience-based evidence indicate that personal and situational factors are among the factors that can influence the tendency of employees to have environmentally friendly behavior at work. In this regard, researchers name an important factor in the formation of green behavior at work under the title of transformational leadership (Hadi & Rasool, 2017). When employees go beyond the goals, in order to minimize the positive impact of organizational activities on the environment (Raskooi, 2019), in fact, it is better to say, green management refers to the integrity of the organization's behavior; and the environmental awareness of green management demands that a company adopt tangible and integrated operations to prevent the pollution created in the organization's activity process (Mazarezadeh et al. 2015). Considering serious environmental problems, such as pollution and resource depletion and increasing polluting gases, companies should change their traditional business model to a sustainable model (Takaudo et al, 2019). However, few companies have the ability to deal with environmental issues using their limited resources (Zhang et al, 2019). The behavior that positively affects the environment is called green behavior or environmentally friendly behavior (Iqbal et al, 2018). In fact, behaviors that contribute to the sustainability of the environment indicate green behavior, such as saving resources, transforming and turning waste into valuable items, and protecting the environment (Jian et al, 2020). Singh et al, (2020) in a study investigated the effect of green innovation on organizational performance through the mediation of green transformation leadership and green human resource management. The findings showed that the actions of green human resources management have a positive and significant effect on the green innovation leadership and then on the environmental performance of organizations. Lee (2020) investigated the effect of green human resource management on environmentally friendly behavior of hotel employees and environmental performance in a study. The findings showed that paying attention to green human resource management measures increases the organizational commitment of employees, behavior compatible with their environment, and sustainable performance. Methodology The current research is an applicable research in terms of the goal, and a descriptive-survey research in terms of the method used. The statistical population of this research is 510 employees of the industrial units of Shahrekord city, 219 people were selected as a sample using Morgan's table, and the questionnaire was distributed among them using simple random sampling. The questionnaire of Kumar Singh, (2020) for the green transformational leadership variable, and the questionnaire of Frang, & Martens (2006) for the environmental concern variable, and the questionnaire of Hassanpour (2020) for the green behavior variable, and the questionnaire of Stanstie et al. (2021) for the green organizational culture variable were used to collect related data. Discussion and Results In order to investigate research hypotheses and analyze data, PLS software was used. The results showed that the significance level for the effect of green transformational leadership on green organizational culture is less than 0.05 (p≤/05); it can be said that green transformational leadership has a significant impact on green organizational culture. Considering that the coefficient of influence of green transformational leadership on green organizational culture is positive and equal to 0.735, it is concluded that green transformational leadership has a positive effect on green organizational culture. The value of the significance level for the effect of green organizational culture on green behavior, which is less than 0.05 (p≤/05), can be said that green organizational culture has a significant effect on green behavior. Considering that the coefficient of influence of green organizational culture on green behavior is positive and equal to 0.496, it is concluded that green organizational culture has a positive effect on green behavior. The significance level value for the effect of green transformational leadership on environmental concerns, which is less than 0.05 (p≤/05), can be said that green transformational leadership has a significant effect on environmental concerns. Considering that the coefficient of influence of green transformational leadership on environmental concerns is positive and equal to 0.804, it is concluded that green transformational leadership has a positive effect on environmental concerns. The value of the significance level for the effect of environmental concerns on green behavior, which is less than 0.05 (p≤/05), can be said that environmental concerns have a significant effect on green behavior. Considering that the coefficient of influence of environmental concerns on green behavior is positive and equal to 0.377, it is concluded that environmental concerns have a positive effect on green behavior. Considering that all 4 sub-hypotheses were accepted, as a result, the main hypothesis is also accepted and green transformational leadership has a significant effect on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture and environmental concerns. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of the effect of green transformational leadership on green behavior with the mediating role of green organizational culture and environmental concerns. The results of this research are consistent with the results of Kumar Singh et al, (2019) and Goldberg et al, (2018); environmental challenges put considerable pressure on organizations to behave more environmentally sustainable. A large number of organizations have started to adopt green policies and methods to increase economic benefits and better environmental performance (Ardito & Dangelico, 2018). Nevertheless, the environmental performance of organizations not only depends on strict laws and regulations, but it also requires employees' positive responses to environmental concerns with employees' environmental behaviors (Kim et al, 2017). The success of a company's environmental management depends on the employees' environmental behavior, because their behavior improves the company's environmental performance as a whole (Lu et al, 2017). The environmental behaviors of employees contribute to the optional actions of employees in the environmental sustainability of the organization and the employer, but are not under the control of any policy or formal environmental management system. Environmental behaviors include recycling and reuse, finding sustainable ways of working, developing and applying ideas to reduce the company's negative environmental effects, developing green processes and products, and questioning harmful practices. According to the results of the research, it is suggested that in order to develop a green transformational leadership style, organizations can formulate regulations that encourage managers to display a green leadership style (such as designing special reward programs). In the government domain, policy makers should try to adopt policies in the framework of which the managers of the organizations will be trained in green leadership style and in this way influence the green attitude and behavior of the employees. Organizations may conduct environment-related training to empower employees to achieve environmental goals. Organizations should conduct environmental audits to assess whether suppliers' practices are consistent with the companies' environmental goals or not.

The Impact of Ethical Marketing on Consumer Repurchase Intention with Emphasis on the Mediating Role of Brand Identity and Brand Equity (Case Study: Digikala Online Store)

Volume 1, Issue 1, Autumn 2021, Pages 81-100

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2021.313204.1005

Mahya Rezaeian, Mohammad Hadi Asgari

Abstract Extended Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of ethical marketing on consumer repurchase intention with emphasis on the mediating role of brand identity and brand equity. The research method is descriptive-survey in terms of nature, and applicable in terms of purpose. The statistical population of the research is the customers of Digi Kala online store. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula of 375 people, and the samples were selected by available sampling method. Ethical marketing questionnaires (Safari.et al.2017), brand equity (Aaker.1991), brand identity (Mael & Ashforth, 1992) and repurchase intention (Hong.et al.2012) were used to collect data. The data validity was determined by the academic experts, and the reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient test. In order to analyze the data, the structural equation technique was used using Lisrel statistical software and SPSS statistical software. The results showed that marketing Ethics has a positive and significant effect on brand identity, customer repurchase intention and brand equity. Brand identity has a positive and significant effect on customers' intention to repurchase. Brand equity has a positive and significant effect on customers' intention to repurchase. Finally, ethical marketing has a significant effect on consumer's intention to repurchase by emphasizing the mediating role of brand identity and brand equity.
Introduction
Rapid change in today's world has faced organizations with various challenges, but in the meantime, successful organizations are those which, with the help of management tools and new technologies, take advantage of the opportunities created to their benefit. The e-commerce environment is one of these tools. Internet-based e-commerce environment allows customers to search for information and purchase goods and services through direct contact with online stores (Feyznia.2017) .Today, shopping intention reflects the predictable behavior of the consumer in future purchasing decisions that significantly helps in the formation of consumer attitudes (Xiao, & Liu.2018). Identity is one of the factors that keeps the brand stable and directs it to new markets and products (Muhonen.et al.2017) Brands identify themselves to customers and differentiate themselves from other competitors. The process of creating a brand identity is to formulate the mindsets that the brand intends to create and ensure that the brand is identified by the customer and associated with a particular category of needs (Khodavardikhani, 2018). The customers prefer one tbrand to other based on the factors important to them (Ebrahim, 2020). Brand equity is one of the assets that maintains the value of the company and, by creating a competitive advantage over competitors, will attract customers' attention and loyalty (Zollo.et.al.2020). The intention to repeat the purchase is the process of referring and repeatedly purchasing goods and services from a store in the long run, the main reason for which is positive experiences after the purchase (Birjandi.et.al.2019). Ethical marketing is a domain of applicable ethics which is related to hidden ethical principles in behavior, advertising and regulation in marketing (Purwanto.etal.2019). This issue, which is widely discussed in management and market science today, is called ethical marketing (Pittz.et.al.2020). Digi Kala online store is one of the most reputable virtual stores in our country which many people buy from around the clock to provide the products and services they need. Considering that a suitable platform for online sales and purchases has not yet become popular in our country, the researcher intends to analyze the relationship between consumer intention to repurchase, brand identity and brand equity while analyzing the aspects of ethical marketing. This study tries to answer the question whether ethical marketing has a significant effect on the consumer's intention to repurchase, by emphasizing the mediating role of brand identity and brand equity in the Digikala online store.
Theoretical literature
Using the definition of Taylor (2000), Till (2009) defines marketing ethics as follows: Research into the nature and levels of belief, beliefs, standards, and rules of ethical behavior in relation to business decisions and sales conditions (Safari, et.al.) 2017). Intention to buy is a pattern of attitude towards the product for future purchases (Shaghlani, 2017). Su (1990) states that the intention to buy refers to some exchange behaviors that occur after consumers evaluate the product and reflect an emotional response in their behavior to an issue (Safari, et al. 2017). Brand identity expresses the ideal characteristics that the brand intends to offer to customers. In other words, brand identity is what the brand commits to the market (Essamri, et. al.2019). Whatever is supposed to be portrayed in the future and engraved in the mind of the customer is the essence of the brand. Adorned appearance and what is seen is the expression of a brand identity (Ahmadian.2017). According to Acker (1991), brand equity has three basic components: brand awareness, brand loyalty and brand association. Brand awareness is the level of awareness and cognition by which the customer recognizes, remembers and can identify brand-related products and services (bordbar, et al.2018).
Chae.et al. (2020) in a study concentrated on the effect of product features on perceived value, brand trust and repurchase intention. The results showed that product features have a positive and significant effect on perceived value, brand trust and repurchase intention. Ghaffari (2018) also stated in his research that there is a positive and significant relationship between ethical marketing and customer loyalty. Izadian (2019) also concluded in his research that there is a positive and significant relationship between brand personality with brand trust and brand loyalty.
Methodology
The present research is applicable in terms of purpose, and descriptive-survey in nature. The statistical population of the research consists of customers of Digi Kala online store, 375 of whom were selected as the research sample using Cochran's formula and available sampling method. ethical marketing questionnaires (Safari.et al 2017), brand equity (Aaker.1991), brand identity (Mael, & Ashforth, 1992) and repurchase intention (Hong.et al.2012) were used to collect data.
Discussion and Results
In order to investigate the mediating effect of brand identity in the hypothesis under discussion, the direct effect of the two structures with the indirect effect in the case of involving mediating variables should be examined so that if the effect increases, the mediating effect can be considered acceptable. In the present hypothesis, the direct effect is equal to 0.49. If there is a mediating variable of brand identity, the indirect effect is:
 (0.69) × (0.73) = (0.507)
Due to the fact that the direct path effect is less than the indirect path, therefore, the existence of a mediating variable increases the brand identity and the mediating role in the present hypothesis is confirmed.
In order to investigate the mediating effect of brand personality in the hypothesis under discussion, the direct effect of two structures with indirect effect in the case of involving mediating variables should be examined so that if the effect increases, the mediating effect can be considered acceptable. In the present hypothesis, the direct effect is equal to 0.49. Indirect effect in the presence of a mediator variable of brand equity is:
(0.72) × (0.78) = (0.561)
Due to the fact that the effect of direct path is less than indirect paths, therefore, the existence of a mediator variable increases the equity of the brand, and the mediating role in the present hypothesis is confirmed.
Conclusion
Considering the confirmation of the first main hypothesis; the effect of ethical marketing on repurchase intention with emphasis on the mediating role of brand identity, the result is explained in such a way that providing the desired services to customers creates trust among customers and persuades them to refer to this site in different situations. Therefore, the idea is imprinted in the minds of customers that if they want quality services, they will always trust this online store and keep it in mind, and if the services required by customers are available on this site, they will not be willing to use services and products of other stores. As a result, the management of this store fulfills its obligations to customers correctly and honestly, and customers are assured about the goodness of the products they receive from this site, compared to other online stores. The degree of easy access of customers to the services or products listed on the Internet sites can affect their satisfaction with the perceived usefulness of these facilities and goods. When the customer can easily make online purchases and buy the desired product, he acts with more interest in understanding the usefulness and the purchase process. These results match with research findings of Demirgüneş.(2015); Rezaei, (2018); Izadian, (2019) and supported by them.
The result of testing the second hypothesis based on the positive and significant effect of ethical marketing on repurchase intention by emphasizing the mediating role of brand equity is explained in such a way that considering the intangibility of goods and services received by customers through the Internet and their purchase from virtual stores has reasonably high perceived risk. When buying online from store sites, customers pay special attention to the details of the purchase and the products offered on this site. Paying attention to the characteristics of the offered products and the amount of site commitment about the returning of impaired goods can be considered as a significant aspect in this case. On one hand, online stores should explain precisely the details and application of their products with high clarification so that customers can make the right choice to meet and satisfy their needs. On the other hand, these stores must be committed to selling their goods and provide after-sales service satisfy the customers. In this way, site managements can stimulate the customer's sense of trust to their virtual store and encourage them to buy online. These results match with research findings of Bavarsad, et al. (2015); Vazifehdust & Memarian. (2014); Chen & Quester, (2015) and supported by them.

Investigating the effect of social media marketing on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and brand equity(Case study: Bank Mellat Isfahan branches)

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2022, Pages 39-57

https://doi.org/10.22034/jbme.2022.332561.1016

Zahra Yazdani Kachuei, mehdi korhani, Asghar kosari

Abstract Abstract The purpose of the present research is to investigate the impact of social media marketing on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and equity of the brand in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. This research is applicable in terms of purpose, and correlative in terms of research method, and required data have been collected by using questionnaire and survey method. The statistical population of this research is the clients of Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. 384 acceptable samples were collected by simple random sampling method. Four social media marketing questionnaires with 11 questions, brand trust with 10 questions, brand special value with 16 questions, and brand loyalty with 15 questions were used as data collection tools. Data analysis was done using structural equation modeling and PLS software, and the research results show that social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and brand equity. That is, if the bank tries to create content in the virtual space through which attracts the attention on those platforms and encourage the readers to share it among social media,, the loyalty of the bank's customers will improve. The bank should spread its advertisements through the virtual space and attract the attention of the audience, as a result, trust in the brand will improve. Extended Abstract Introduction Today, a large number of users with different goals have joined virtual social networks and engage in various activities (Barreto, 2014). Organizations, either small or large, have entered social media and are slowly trying to discover its benefits (Bakeri, 2020). They have used Twitter, created fan pages on Facebook, posted videos on YouTube, and perhaps even created websites in the late 20th century (Zhang & Liu, 2021). Organizations today feel that the Social media are and will be a means of business (Naeem, 2021). The main goal of social media marketing is to create a business based on customer orientation and the credibility of a company in order to develop and manage work (Kim, 2012). No one can claim that there are only advantages and benefits in the field of social media marketing. Rather, in social media marketing, like all aspects of life, there are advantages and disadvantages together and side by side (Rosen, 2013). However, in our country, social networks have not been able to find their desired place in people's lives, and after all, culture creating in this field has not been done, and producers of products and services cannot make proper use of these networks. This issue has become the main problem in creating trust and loyalty of customers to the brand in social networks. In e-commerce, trust is considered the most important success factor. It should be said that according to previous studies, the recommendations of acquaintances and online opinions of consumers (word of mouth advertising) are the most reliable type of advertising in the world and the most important source of information for purchasing decisions. Many researchers consider the power of the internet as a social structure in creating and increasing brand trust and loyalty. It is argued that brand community in social networks increases brand loyalty through increasing brand trust. By increasing the capabilities of social networks, trust in the brand and then loyalty to the brand increases; therefore, brand trust plays a mediating role. According to the mentioned materials, the main problem of the research is whether social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and special value of the brand in Bank Mellat branches of Isfahan. Theoretical framework A social network is a social structure made up of groups - generally individual or organizational - which are connected by one or more types of dependencies. Social networks in the context of a complex information society depict the effective functioning of the network (convergence) and with a more detailed look, society is a combination of multiple networks: inter-organizational networks, intra-organizational networks, personal networks, computer networks, and furthermore, cross-border networks and information flows through these highways (Zhang & Liu, 2021). Brand equity has been defined in different ways for different purposes. But so far, no common consensus has been reached. The concept of brand equity has been the subject of a large number of studies, has been examined from different perspectives, and is often described as the value that a brand gives to a product (Rezaeian, M., Asgar, 2021; Shams Lahroudi, 2018) According to Aker, brand loyalty is one of the foundations of brand equity, and many factors play a role in creating this loyalty, one of the main of which is the experience of using the brand (Song, 2012). Oliver defines brand loyalty as a consumer's strong commitment to purchase or reuse a brand regularly in the future. Fukuyama (1995) defines brand trust as: an expectation that arises from inside of an orderly, honest community with cooperative behaviors based on commonly shared norms, on the part of community members. He believes that the industrial revolution has played a significant role in the importance of trusting the brand to recognize and understand business behaviors such as marketing. Mirzaee Azandariani and Arya (2022) conducted a research titled investigating the impact of the characteristics of second-hand goods platforms on brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction (the study of Divar and Sheipour platform in Iran). Research findings showed that ease of use has a positive and indirect effect on brand loyalty intentions with a mediating role of customer satisfaction, perceived usefulness has a positive and indirect effect on brand loyalty intentions with a mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the entertainment aspect has a positive and indirect effect on Brand loyalty intentions with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the sense of belonging to a community has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, and seller credibility has a positive and indirect effect on the intention of loyalty to the brand whit a mediating role of customer satisfaction, and the recognition of a third party has a positive and indirect effect on the intentions of brand loyalty with the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Farzin et al. (2020) conducted a study with the aim of investigating the effect of brand equity from the consumer's point of view on brand satisfaction and loyalty in the wood and paper industries of Mazandaran province. The results of the research showed that there is a positive and significant effect between the dimensions of brand equity and consumer satisfaction (except for employee behavior and brand awareness) and brand loyalty (except for ideal self-concept and brand identity) and also between consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty is a positive and significant effect. Research methodology The research method is descriptive-correlative in nature and applicable in terms of purpose. The statistical population of this research is the clients of Isfahan Bank Mellat branches and simple random sampling method was used and 384 acceptable samples were collected. In order to collect data related to the variables, four social media marketing questionnaires were used with 11 questions, brand trust with 10 questions, brand equity with 16 questions, and brand loyalty with 15 questions; and based on a 5-point Likert scale (completely agree to completely disagree).   Research findings Structural equations and PLS were used to investigate the research hypothesis and data analysis, and the results showed that social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and brand equity in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Social media marketing has an effect on brand trust in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Social media marketing has an effect on brand equity in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Brand trust has an effect on brand loyalty in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Brand equity has an effect on brand loyalty in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty with the mediating role of brand trust in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. Social media marketing has an effect on brand loyalty with the mediating role of brand value in Isfahan Bank Mellat branches. All factor loading coefficients are greater than 0.4, which shows that this model is suitable. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of social media marketing on brand loyalty with the mediating role of trust and brand value in Isfahan Mellat Bank branches. The results of this research corresponds with the results of research findings of Frzin et al. (2020); Shirkhodaei (2017); Imran Khan et al. (2017). If the bank tries to create content in cyber space through which can attract the attention of the audience on those platforms and encourage readers to share it among social media, the loyalty of the bank's customers as a result, will improve. The bank should spread its advertisements through the virtual space and attract the attention of the audience, as a result, trust in the brand will improve. According to the present research, it is suggested that the bank employees have sufficient knowledge and information about the services to provide to the customers. The employees solve the problems faced by the customers regarding the services in the best way; follow up and respond to the requests of the customers regarding the services quickly and in different ways such as phone, email, etc.; provide a platform so that customers can fully use the bank's services anywhere and at any time of the day or night; and by improving the level of value and the mental image of the brand of services and the quality level of relations with customers, provide the possibility of strengthening customer satisfaction, which ultimately leads to customer loyalty.

Entrepreneurship

The conceptual model of two-generational business model innovation in family firms: Case study of family firms in the publishing industry

Volume 5, Issue 4, Winter 2026, Pages 64-94

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.460682.1389

Maryam Vajdi Vahid, Jahangir Yadollahi Farsi, Kamal Sakhdari, Mehran Rezvani

Abstract Abstract The purpose of the research is to explain the capabilities of two generations in business model innovation through value creation in family companies and to present a conceptual model. The research is developmental-applicable in terms of its purpose, with a descriptive-analytical nature, and of exploratory type. The statistical population was 1st and 2nd generation and experts from family companies in the publishing industry. Data were collected using interviews and the categories were coded and the findings were classified with MAXQDA version 2020 software. With the purposeful sampling method, the study of 5 companies was conducted with 13 interviews. Validation of research findings was done with theoretical triangulation and survey of experts. The results showed that 5 background factors including innovative joint vision, interaction and exchange of knowledge of two generations, creating flexibility in generation 1, synergy, cooperation and commitment of two generations and using capabilities of generation 2 and experts were identified. Regarding process factors, 3 important factors include 1st generation management capabilities, 2-generation value co-creation, and 2nd generation capabilities in creating new value were identified as important capabilities in the innovation process of the 2-generation business model from the aspect of value creation. In the context of business model innovation dimensions, 7 factors include the role of generation 2 in finding ideas and implementing new projects and communicating with customers and the role of generation 1 in allocating new resources, providing financial resources, structuring activities, managing risk and resources, supporting plans and communication with stakeholders was recognized as the capabilities of two generations in business model innovation. Introduction Family companies are companies in which family members play a role in the management and control of the company, and the continuity of generations is its important feature (Suman, 2020). The survival of the family business in the new generation depends on innovation, creativity and the ability to respond to changing conditions caused by the introduction of new technology. Some factors caused by the 1st and 2nd generation in business affect the innovation process. Business model innovation in family companies is influenced by the capabilities of two generations (Prabandari, 2024). Innovation may cause resistance in the first generation of family business (Weimann, 2020); therefore, it is necessary to explain the participation of two generations with their capabilities in business model innovation in family companies. In some studies, the arrival of the new generation is considered to be the cause of innovation and the driving force of these companies for innovation, but a limited number of researchers explained the connection between the arrival of the 2nd generation and innovation (Leppäaho, 2022). The capabilities of the 1st and 2nd generations have an impact on the innovation of family companies, and there is a need for more research in this field. Limited research has been done on the role of two generations in business model innovation (Moreno, 2021), therefore, the research answers the question: how the capabilities of the 1st and 2nd generations play a role in the innovation of the business model from the aspect of value creation in family companies? Theoretical foundations Family companies Family companies are defined based on business continuity for the next generation (Hernández-Linares, 2017). Two generations affect innovation differently according to their experiences and knowledge (Kidwell, 2019). The special feature of the family company is the participation and interaction of two generations. The capabilities and characteristics of the 1st and 2nd generation of family companies have an impact on innovation, therefore, the participation of two generations and their relationships play a role in how to innovate the business model (Soluk, 2021). Two-generation business model innovation  Business model innovation is defined as value creation by creating, making and providing new value to the customer (Saebi, 2017). In another definition, the dimensions of business model innovation are based on value creation structures, goals, management and decision-making, structuring activities, communication with customers and stakeholders, and provision and application of resources and capabilities (Clinton, 2018). The innovation of the two-generation business model in family companies is influenced by factors related to the company and the capabilities and characteristics of the 1st and 2nd generations. Chirico's research focused on value creation in family companies from the perspective of resources, knowledge and capabilities (Chirico, 2013). In Soluk's research, the relationship between family influence and business model innovation (BMI) was explained, but the role of two generations was not distinguished (Soluk, 2021). In Clinton's research, the innovation of the business model of family companies has been explained in several generations (Clinton, 2018). Limited researches have examined the innovation of the business model of family companies from the perspective of the capabilities of two generations. In the field of two or multigenerational value creation and business model innovation, previous research has been summarized in a few limited cases.  Research method Multiple case study method was used in this research. The research is developmental-applicable in terms of its purpose, and descriptive-analytical in terms of its nature, and of exploratory type. The statistical population of 1st and 2nd generation and experts of companies with innovation experience was from 5 companies in the publishing industry, which was selected by purposeful sampling. A semi-structured interview was used to collect information. First, the interview protocol was designed based on important analytical questions, what and how. Interviews with 1st and 2nd generation and experts were conducted until theoretical saturation was reached. Based on the findings of the interview, 139 concepts and 46 codes were found. Coding was done with MAXQDA software version 2020, a process method including the explanation of background factors, process and consequences was used to provide a conceptual model. To measure the internal validity and reliability of the findings, theoretical triangulation and survey of experts were used; and to measure the external validity, compatibility with theoretical perspectives was used. For the purpose of theoretical triangulation, other evidences were examined. The codes were evaluated by consensus of experts to complete the results. To maintain the validity of the research findings, a survey of 3 experts familiar with academic research in the field of entrepreneurship was conducted and the extracted codes were modified. Changes were made in the codes and in the conceptual model. Finally, the conceptual model was tested in practice by surveying the manager of a family company, whose views confirmed the findings of this research.  Research findings The components of the conceptual model were explained in a process method including the background factors, the two-generation value creation process and its consequences and its relationship with other dimensions of business model innovation. Creating the ability to accept new ideas and flexibility in the 1st generation, using the capabilities of the 2nd generation with the expert team and the commitment of the two generations, forming the goals and innovative joint vision of the two generations, creating a structure and system that encourages innovation with the entry of the 2nd generation and using the capabilities of the 2nd generation with the expert team, interaction and coordination, exchange of ideas, synergy and cooperation of two generations were identified as background factors. Generation 2 capabilities in creating and making new value, generation 1 management capabilities in value creation and co-creation of new value were identified as important factors in the two-generation value creation process. Capabilities of the 1st generation in using company resources and professionals with the entry of the active 2nd generation, the capabilities of the 1st generation in providing financial and non-financial resources, goals and innovative joint vision and the participation of the two generations, the capabilities of the 1st generation in structuring activities, the capabilities of the 1st generation in decision-making, risk and resource management, the capabilities of generation 2 in relation to customers and value creation and the capabilities of generation 1 in relation to stakeholders were identified as the capabilities of two generations in other dimensions of business model innovation. Creating a new two-generation value and offering it to the customer by the 2nd generation and specialists with the cooperation and management of the 1st generation, aligning with the needs of the customer in the digital environment, synchronizing the company with the digital space, innovation in customer service and providing digital services by implementing new publishing digitalization plans, sales processes and customer relations were recognized as outcomes. The findings of this research confirm the significant contribution of generation 2. The findings showed that generation 2 brings new ideas by learning from sources outside the company. The design and implementation of projects and ideas is the responsibility of the energetic, innovative and creative young generation and the expert team. With the arrival of the 2nd generation and professionals, continuous learning was formed to create value with interactions and continuous review of customer satisfaction. The work and educational experiences of the 2nd generation outside the family business are important for finding new ideas. The younger generation has a greater ability to learn and is a technology expert and motivated to change, so it was successful in finding ideas and implementing innovative projects, and the management was the responsibility of the 1st generation. The role of the 2nd generation with professionals was to constantly search for ideas, pay more attention to customer needs, and create new value. Generation 2 is constantly learning ways to implement new designs.  Conclusion This research has explained the role of the capabilities of two generations of family companies in business model innovation from the aspect of value creation. The presented conceptual model explains how two generations create new value. Based on the analysis of 5 case studies of family companies, a conceptual model was presented using the process method including background factors, process and consequences. The findings of this research show that cooperation and synergy between two generations, good relations and conflict resolution between them play important roles and are in line with previous researches. With the arrival of the new generation, they have the capacity to absorb, take risks and become familiar with communication technology, acquire knowledge and learn; and as a result, change the business model. The arrival of non-family experts and the exchange of knowledge between generations provide the basis for business model innovation. Acquiring clear knowledge, capacity to absorb, search and continuous learning by the second generation and experts and communicating with customers are important value creation factors. The innovative technical capabilities of generation 2, management capabilities and communication of generation 1 with stakeholders are important factors in creating new value. The results indicate that the creation of two-generation value is due to the capacity to absorb the second generation and the awareness of current technology. The results indicate that the arrival of the 2nd generation and non-family professionals with the capacity to absorb, take risks and be familiar with communication technology has a significant impact on changing the business model of family companies. Generation 2 and professionals familiar with information technology help to create new value. Employing experts to create new value by providing advice to two generations, providing the resources needed for the next generation and trusting the second generation and employing them with experts are some practical suggestions. In generation 1, the motivation for change should be created by generation 2 and experts so that generation 2 and experts can have the support of generation 1 to create and provide new value to the customer.

Business Management

Investigating sales drivers in assessing the authenticity of emerging brands through deep neural network (DNN) measurement

Volume 5, Issue 4, Winter 2026, Pages 184-200

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2025.503428.1493

Mohammadreza Dorrani, Seyed Reza Hasani, Farshid Namamian

Abstract Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate sales drivers in assessing the authenticity of emerging brands through measuring deep neural networks (DNN). The present study is applicable in terms of purpose, and mixed (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of implementation, and is an exploratory research type. The statistical population of the study in the qualitative section included 10 experts and academic experts proficient and familiar with the fields of marketing and branding. The research collection tool was a semi-structured interview. Data analysis in the qualitative section was carried out through coding and using MAXQDA software, and in the quantitative section using neural net and MATLAB software. The results of the study showed that 8 research criteria were identified, including brand continuity, brand credibility, brand coherence, brand symbolism, market homogeneity, market competition, market infrastructure, and political decisions. Also, all predictions of the proposed artificial neural network are made correctly, and the network is able to correctly identify and classify all outputs based on the defined inputs. Introduction In today's business world, brands play an important role in creating differentiation and attracting customers. Brand authenticity is one of the key concepts in modern marketing that refers to the extent to which customers perceive the credibility, honesty, and true values ​​of a brand (Morhart et al, 2015). Brand authenticity is especially important for emerging brands that are in the early stages of their development. This concept is especially important for emerging brands that do not yet have a strong and established position in the minds of customers (Beverland, 2021). Investigating the interaction between sales drivers and the authenticity of emerging brands is important due to the challenges in this field, especially in competitive markets. On one hand, the use of sales incentives can help increase brand awareness and accelerate customers’ decision-making process. On the other hand, if these incentives are not designed properly, they may lead to a decrease in the perception of brand authenticity (Steenkamp & Geyskens, 2014). For example, excessive discounts or excessive use of promotional tools may send contradictory messages about the true value of the brand (Dwivedi & McDonald, 2018). On the other hand, sales incentives can have a positive impact on brand authenticity in certain situations. For example, offering targeted and temporary discounts or using incentives consistent with the brand’s values ​​and message may strengthen customers’ emotional connection with the brand and improve their perception of brand authenticity (Holt, 2020). A review of the literature on the impact of sales incentives on consumer behavior and brand authenticity reveals that although there are studies on the impact of sales incentives on consumer behavior and brand authenticity, a limited number of studies have focused specifically on emerging brands and their specific challenges. In particular, fewer studies have examined how sales incentives can be used in a way that both helps increase short-term sales and reinforces the image of brand authenticity. Therefore, the main research question is: What is the role of sales incentives on the authenticity of emerging brands?  Theoretical Framework Sales Incentives Sales incentives are one of the most effective marketing tools that are widely used to stimulate consumer buying behavior, increase sales, and create competitive advantage. These incentives are usually designed as short-term strategies that aim to immediately increase demand (Chandon et al, 2000). Sales incentives can have significant effects on consumer purchasing behavior, and can encourage consumers to make immediate purchases by creating a sense of urgency and greater value. Price discounts, especially on high-priced products or price-sensitive categories, often lead to increased sales volume (Liao et al, 2021). Brand Authenticity Brand authenticity refers to the alignment of a brand’s actions with its values, history, and promises, and refers to a brand’s ability to demonstrate honesty and align with customer expectations. This concept encompasses several dimensions, including authenticity, coherence, and transparency (Napoli et al, 2016). This concept is particularly important for emerging and developing brands, as consumers often seek real values ​​and meaningful connections when choosing brands (Bruhn et al, 2017). Mousavi et al, (2023) investigated the effect of brand authenticity on the self-concept of domestic brand customers by explaining the mediating role of brand social power. The research findings show that brand authenticity has a positive and significant effect on customer self-concept. Also; brand social power has a positive and significant effect on customer self-concept. As a general conclusion, it should be added that products similar to the characteristics of authentic brands in terms of customer self-image are more likely to be selected for use by the target customer community due to the social power of the brand. Nurani Kutenaee et al, (2021) in a study titled "Modeling Store Brand Competitiveness Based on the Environmental Stimuli Pattern in Chain Stores: A Mixed Approach" concluded that managing external and internal environmental stimuli in the store through an enjoyable shopping experience can create authenticity, attachment, and store brand image, which results in increasing market share, creating a powerful brand and competitive advantage, and ultimately making the store brand competitive.  Research Methodology The present study is applicable in terms of purpose, and mixed (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of implementation, and is an exploratory research type. The statistical population of the study in the qualitative section included 10 experts and academic experts proficient and familiar with the fields of marketing and branding. The research collection tool was a semi-structured interview. Research findings Data analysis in the qualitative section was carried out through coding and using MAXQDA software, and in the quantitative section using neural net and MATLAB software. The results of the study showed that 8 research criteria were identified, including brand continuity, brand credibility, brand coherence, brand symbolism, market homogeneity, market competition, market infrastructure, and political decisions. Also, all predictions of the proposed artificial neural network are made correctly, and the network is able to correctly identify and classify all outputs based on the defined inputs. Conclusion The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating sales drivers in evaluating the authenticity of emerging brands through measuring deep neural networks (DNN). The results of this study are in line with the results of Mousavi et al, (2023), Nurani Kutenaee et al, (2021), Mohammadi et al, (2021), Grewal et al, (2020), Holt (2020), Yavarigohar & Koraghli (2019), Van-Dat (2018), Dwivedi & McDonald (2018), Chen et al, (2017), Napoli et al, (2014), and Steenkamp & Geyskens (2014). Holt (2020) concluded in their study that emerging brands should use sales stimuli that reflect real values ​​and cultures. In this study, brand symbolism, which has a cultural context, has been pointed out in a relatively similar way, which can play a role as one of the criteria related to sales stimuli. According to the research results, the following suggestions are made: Commercialization of knowledge-based goods in the Iranian pharmaceutical industry can help develop research and innovation in this industry. It is suggested that by producing and supplying innovative drugs, research should be conducted to gain more knowledge about diseases and their treatment methods. This research can lead to scientific and medical advances in the country and improve treatment methods.

Business Management

Identifying factors affecting the distribution strategy in the food industry with the attitude of marketing and online sales

Volume 4, Issue 4, Winter 2025, Pages 337-362

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.463254.1400

solmaz seyedghafouri, Vahid nasehifar, Farid askari

Abstract Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate the identification of effective factors on the distribution strategy in the food industry from the point of view of online marketing and sales. This research applicable-developmental is in terms of purpose, qualitative in terms of data collecting method, and a meta-composite approach in terms of the research implementation method. The statistical population of the research includes 12 university professors who are experts in the field of marketing management and distribution channels and have books or articles in this field, as well as theorists and researchers who have specialized studies in this field. This research was analyzed using the scientific method of metasynthesis and by reviewing the published articles; and 85 indicators were extracted based on 23 selected articles. Eventually, 16 components were evaluated and identified, and finally the ultimate framework was confirmed and identified by applying the total opinions of experts on the components of human factors, creating value for the customer, paying attention to the competence of managers, internal factors, external factors, management factors, opinion mining, digital marketing, environmental factors, content marketing, business strategies, complete knowledge of the internal and external environment, direct marketing, visual features, optimization, competitive performance. Extended Abstract                                           Introduction With the growth and expansion of technology, companies have turned to using online methods and channels to sell products and distribute them. The important point is that using online methods is not a substitute for traditional distribution and sales methods; and is used alongside them. In order to apply these methods correctly, strategic marketing planning must be done in businesses, and this has a great impact on pricing and sales (Chen et al, 2021). One of the important issues in production and marketing is how and when to transfer the produced goods to the final consumer. A product may have a good rating in terms of quality, but if it is not offered to the target market at the right time and place, it will lose its usefulness. Therefore, deciding on the way to transfer goods to the place of purchase or consumption is one of the important decisions that the marketing manager faces. These decisions are important in at least two aspects. First, they have a direct effect on other strategic marketing planning decisions, including pricing policy, advertising, packaging, etc., and secondly, the company has to adhere to and remain committed to these decisions for a long time, because the establishment and development of the optimal distribution system takes several years and cannot be changed easily (Barabian & Armon, 2023). Today, due to the multitude and variety of distribution channels, one of the challenges of marketing managers of food industry companies is to choose the right channels, how and how much to use each channel so that the produced goods are offered to the consumer at the lowest cost and at the right time and place (Sharifi & Sharifi, 2022). What is important in the distribution network of goods in a country is the transfer of goods with the least cost and time, along with compliance with the necessary standards to maintain the health of the goods and finally respect the rights of consumers. The goods distribution network in Iran is facing various problems and challenges. The excessive number of trade unions at the traditional retail level, the number of trade unions without business licenses, the prominent share of the unorganized sector compared to the organized distribution and sales network, the lack of benefit from new tools and methods of product distribution, and the lack of interest of the private and foreign sector to invest in modern distribution network are some of the most important challenges of distribution industry in Iran (Thomas, 2017). According to the preliminary review of the literature and the need for a detailed scientific study on how to choose a distribution channel strategy, we can point to this question: how is the identifying of the factors affecting the distribution strategy in the food industry with the attitude of online marketing and sales? Theoretical Framework Distribution channels Distribution channel or marketing channel is the path that goods or services take to reach the ultimate user or consumer. This channel includes all the people who get the ownership of the goods and the people who help to transfer them. The people who are involved in the transfer of ownership of goods, from the producer to the consumer, are called intermediaries. In longer and more complex marketing channels, a class of wholesalers is responsible for larger regions or even countries, buying from manufacturers and selling to smaller wholesalers, sometimes called distributors (Ismailpour, 2017). Online sell Online selling combines the technical and creative aspects of the internet, including design, development, advertising and sales. The emergence of the internet has made it possible for almost everyone to sell their goods, products or services with just a few clicks from buyers. Internet marketing is essentially a continuation of traditional marketing in the past years. Selling through the internet can be beneficial for all small and large businesses. You only need to observe the points that form the core of internet marketing (Mojdkanlou et al, 2022). Riyadi et al, (2023) have conducted a study titled the effect of distribution strategy and price on purchasing decisions from retailers. This study showed that by changing distribution strategies by combining compact, exclusive and selective varieties; significant results were obtained in prices and purchasing decisions by customers. The main finding in this study was that the implementation of distribution strategies to adjust government policies was very effective in reaching customers in all corners of the city so that price adjustments and customer purchase decisions are made continuously. Cao et al, (2023) have conducted a study titled strategic analysis of the influence of distribution strategy on product line design with endogenous quality. By raising the question of whether to emphasize agents or to use wholesalers, the answer to this question depends on the distribution strategy. To solve the problem, a Stackelberg game model with endogenous quality, optimal production and pricing decisions of companies and platforms under different sales models was used. By comparing the equilibrium results, it is clear that both the company and the platform can benefit from product line expansion. When the profit sharing ratio of the platform is in a certain middle range, the company and the platform can agree on the distribution strategy. Also, even if there is no cost to extend the product line, the company will not choose to extend the product line when the platform receives a large portion of the revenue. Research methodology This research applicable-developmental is in terms of purpose, qualitative in terms of data collecting method, and a meta-composite approach in terms of the research implementation method. The statistical population of the research includes 12 university professors who are experts in the field of marketing management and distribution channels and have books or articles in this field, as well as theorists and researchers who have specialized studies in this field. Research findings This research was analyzed using the scientific method of metasynthesis and by reviewing the published articles; and 85 indicators were extracted based on 23 selected articles. Eventually, 16 components were evaluated and identified, and finally the ultimate framework was confirmed and identified by applying the total opinions of experts on the components of human factors, creating value for the customer, paying attention to the competence of managers, internal factors, external factors, management factors, opinion mining, digital marketing, environmental factors, content marketing, business strategies, complete knowledge of the internal and external environment, direct marketing, visual features, optimization, competitive performance. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of identifying factors affecting the distribution strategy in the food industry with the attitude of online marketing and sales. The results of this research are in agreement with the results of Salimi & Hassani (2023), Assarian et al, (2023), Seifbarghy & Kafshian Ahar (2022), Honarmand (2022), Khoi & Jamili (2022), Bashokouh & Beigi Firoozi (2022), Haghighi Kaffash et al, (2021), Riyadi et al, (2023), Cao et al, (2023), Zhang et al, (2023), Sun et al, (2023), Wei & Dong (2022), Salimi & Hassani (2023), Wang et al, (2023), Assarian et al, (2023), and Chen et al, (2021). Seifbarghy & Kafshian Ahar (2022) showed that the integration and coordination of the manufacturer and retailer benefits all members of the supply chain and greatly increases the profit of the entire supply chain. According to the results of the research, the following suggestions are presented: - Examine the features, characteristics and benefits of their product in detail. This analysis includes checking the quality, capabilities, performance, adaptability to customer needs, and competitive advantages of the product. With a detailed understanding of product features and benefits, they can design unique strategies for marketing and selling their product. - They should define their target market precisely and separate its parts. They can pay attention to factors such as gender, age, geographical location, type of industry and other characteristics. By accurately defining the target market, they can design specific strategies for each customer group and improve the sales process.  

business management

Designing the dimensions of the maturity of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking with the foundation's data approach

Volume 5, Issue 1, Spring 2025, Pages 444-470

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.446602.1332

Babak Zinati, Mohammad Taleghani, Azita Sherej sharifi

Abstract Abstract
The main goal of this research is to design the maturity model of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking with the data-based approach. The current research is, qualitative type based on strategy, and it is in the basic research categories in terms of goal. The data collection method is field research, and the data collection tool is a semi-structured interview. The participants of the current research are the senior managers of the country's banks, experts and activists in the field of digital banking, and using the sampling method, 10 people were selected as participants in the research. It should be noted that the interview has progressed to theoretical saturation. Qualitative data obtained through interviews were analyzed using the data-based theorizing method. Qualitative data analysis was done using Max Kyoda software version 2020. According to the results obtained, the categories identified in this research include ten categories in the causal conditions section, seven categories as components of the central phenomenon, four categories related to contextual conditions, eleven categories in the strategies section, and seven categories for intervening conditions. And finally, there are eight categories for the consequent part of the model.
Introduction
In the last few years, technology has been developing rapidly and big data or mega data, computing or cloud computing, smartphones and high bandwidth are now commonplace. Examining and comparing the effects of technology in other industries shows that digital has created great changes in the status and value of the industry (Barazideh et al., 2024). There is much pressure to change and transform the banking industry. Customer experiences and expectations, technological capabilities, legal requirements, demographic and lifestyle issues, and economics all create an inevitable necessity for change. It is obvious that the digital age has had a pervasive impact on every industry and organization (Ramzanpour Osmavandani et al., 2024). Digital transformation management is the determining factor of the survival or destruction of organizations in this era, and now it is the era of transition from traditional models to technology-oriented and value-creating business models. In recent years, the new generation of banking under the name of digital banking has been operationalized in the world and the main attention of leading banks has been focused around the axis of digital transformation (Karimi et al., 2023. (
Over the years, the development of new services in the banking and financial sector has been driven by telephone banking, online banking and other forms of fintech (Hasan et al., 2020). These developments enabled the banking sector to overcome the global challenges associated with facilitating transactions across industries, thanks to improvements in accessibility, speed, efficiency, effectiveness and transparency. However, the introduction of digital banking, focusing on technologies such as blockchain, has been announced as the next evolutionary step that will transform not only the banking and financial industry, but also the nature and execution of corporate transactions (Osmain et al., 2021).
Therefore, the use of new mechanisms such as blockchain with all kinds of monetary services brings the possibility of causing widespread disruption in the banking industry. As a result, it includes activities such as facilitating international money transfers, smart contracts, digital banking, office automation and digital assets. Thus, it provides an opportunity for relevant stakeholders to contribute to the improvement of openness, trust and privacy issues. However, although blockchain technology has provided many opportunities for businesses, it is necessary to realize that there will be many problems and complexities in the areas of adoption as well as in the areas of technology and regulation. For example, the numerous risks caused by the loss of digital money and cyber security breaches are examples of recent incidents that have revealed a high level of risks associated with the use of blockchain technologies in banking and finance (Demirhan et al., 2021). According to the items mentioned above, the main question of the current research is:
How to fully recognize, evaluate and design the maturity dimensions of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking using a data-base approach, so that banks can use modern optimizing technologies to provide their services, improve financial performance and customer experience?
Theoretical framework
In the fourth industrial revolution, the emergence of major technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Objects has led to extensive changes in business models, among which banks have had a greater share of these developments. Despite the research conducted in the field of business model change in the fourth industrial revolution, the issue of transformation in the supply chain of banking services in the fourth industrial revolution has been almost neglected (Shahabi et al., 2021). The competition between banks and financial institutions, the emergence of digital technologies, the problems caused by sanctions, the continuous change of customer requests and the needs of society have made planning for the development of digital banking an undeniable necessity for banks. Digital technologies (such as social media, mobile, cloud computing, Internet of Objects and other digital technologies) offer great opportunities for organizations to provide new value propositions, especially by combining their existing capabilities with new digital capabilities. In addition, digital technologies will increase user experience and create new revenue streams (Asqari et al., 2018).
Chaidar et al., (2023) in their paper investigated the dynamic relationship between fintech investments and financial performance and showed whether the size of the bank can affect its performance in the field of digital transformation (digitalization) or not. The fully modified ordinary least squares model is estimated for 23 European banks in the whole period from 2010 to 2019 and for two sub-periods from 2010 to 2014 and from 2015 to 2019. Econometric results show that fintech is positively and significantly related to bank profitability, in the sense that the more digital interaction banks have, the higher the profitability.
 In their research, Avianto et al., (2024) analyzed the differences in book prices of banks based on the level of digitalization and investigated the effect of digitization and financial factors on the value of book prices of banks with digital services. The analysis of the results of this study shows that higher levels of digitalization are associated with improvements in the share of fee income, return on equity and price to book value of the bank. Additionally, the level of digitization enhances equity returns, improves non-performing loans and increases capital utilization, all of which significantly impact book value.
Zhao et al., (2024) in their study investigate the effects of corporate digitization on green transformation in listed resource-based companies in China from 2009 to 2021. The data analysis of this research shows that digital transformation significantly increases the sustainability of these companies.
Ayinaddis et al., (2024) in their study analyzed the perceived effects of digital transformation in the banking industry and identified the factors that most affect banking performance and business volume. Based on the obtained results, the strengthening of the impact of digital transformation in banking and the vital importance of employees' skills and the digital experience of shareholders have been highlighted.
Research methodology
Based on the type of data, this research is considered as a qualitative research and according to the purpose of the research, it is considered as a basic and exploratory research, which seeks to design a model for the maturity of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking.. The participants of the research are senior managers of the country's banks and experts and activists in the field of digital banking, 10 of whom were selected by theoretical sampling and interviewed. In selecting the samples, an effort was made to select the most knowledgeable and well-known managers. The interviews have been repeated in order to share the preliminary findings, complete, correct, revise and adjust the data.
Research findings
In the current research, according to the purpose of the research to design a model for the maturity dimensions of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking, the researcher has used the data-based theorizing method in the style of Strauss and Corbin. In this research, the researcher started the interviews with targeted sampling of the desired samples and questions about the maturity dimensions of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking. In the central coding step, while the interviews were progressing, the relationship of the categories in the relative sampling of the codes of the interviews was determined to some extent. In the last step of selective coding, a selective sampling of the categories was carried out and according to the causal conditions raised in connection with the maturity of the fourth industrial revolution in the supply chain of banking services and the development of digital banking from the samples in connection with Phenomenon-oriented, strategies, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, and finally, the consequences of questions were asked and finally, in the supplementary stage, according to the literature of this field and theoretical foundations, the final form of the model was completed.
Conclusion
In the era of technological advancement and innovative disruption, digital banking with artificial intelligence has emerged as an alternative technology for channel management, services and online banking solutions. Although the emergence of artificial intelligence in digital banking has enriched digital banking services, the adoption of digital banking with artificial intelligence and meeting the expectations of digital banking users is still an important issue. According to the results obtained from the model presented in this article, and according to the strategies identified in this model, the country's banks can create value for customers and improve their financial performance. Also, other consequences include personalized services, structural improvement, creation of new institutions and organizations, re-engineering of processes, creation of a suitable banking business model and finally improvement of customer performance.

Business Management

A systematic review of the ambidexterity strategy in the development of the digital Economy

Volume 5, Issue 1, Spring 2025, Pages 471-494

https://doi.org/10.22034/jvcbm.2024.448050.1341

Ata Harandi, Yaser Baghery

Abstract Abstract This research systematically reviews the literature on ambidexterity strategies in the development of the digital economy. The main questions addressed are: What is the current state of knowledge in this field and related studies? What research proposals can advance the understanding of ambidexterity in the context of digital economy development? The philosophy of this research is interpretive, aligning with the application of ambidexterity in industries and companies focusing on the development of the digital economy. An inductive, qualitative approach is adopted, analyzing research articles from the Web of Science database using a systematic literature review method. The bibliometric analysis follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines, covering 114 articles and employing VOSviewer software for analysis. The findings indicate that, given the upward trend in the number of studies in recent years, this field is experiencing scientific growth. Based on the results, five clusters emerge in the word analysis diagram: (1) organizational ambidexterity, dynamic capabilities, market orientation, digital economy, big data, and absorptive capacity; (2) ambidexterity, Industry 4.0, information technology, innovation, organizational agility, strategic alignment; (3) competitive advantage, digital transformation, resource-based view; (4) exploration, exploitation; and (5) sustainability. Introduction The turbulence and complexity of today's business environment have increased significantly. The number of influencing factors has grown, and their rate of change has accelerated. Under such conditions, the future becomes ambiguous and unpredictable, with environmental trends and opportunities remaining unstable. This increasing turbulence reduces the stability and predictability of the future. Consequently, traditional approaches to strategic planning, in a world where key variables are constantly changing and difficult to predict, have low validity and reliability. In this environment, organizations require new mental models to make dynamic strategic decisions and translate them into strategic changes. Preparedness, responsiveness, and strategic flexibility are crucial components for dealing with turbulence and complexity. Organizations must generate and test ideas, learning from their decisions and the environment, to carve a path to competitive advantage. Possessing an adaptive advantage, in addition to a competitive one, is essential. Economic enterprises must continuously analyze the environment, identify drivers of change, and examine the macro and micro trends these drivers create in the broader environment and industry. They should develop related scenarios and subsequently analyze their key capabilities and competencies. Identifying resource and capability gaps to face the future is essential. Through strategic planning, they can move toward adaptability to the evolving environment (Harandi et al., 2024). An organization's ability to maintain a competitive advantage by leveraging existing capabilities while simultaneously innovating and acquiring new competencies is crucial for survival. The concept that organizations must continuously explore new opportunities and exploit existing assets to remain resilient in complex and turbulent environments is significant in organizational literature. Achieving a balance between exploration and exploitation is a prerequisite for resilience and sustainability in modern organizations. The capacity to manage and balance creative destruction and innovation with the exploitation of existing resources is essential for businesses in the digital domain (Harandi et al., 2024). This article addresses the depth and body of knowledge regarding ambidextrous strategy in the context of these discontinuities. By reviewing the literature on ambidextrous strategy within these discontinuities, we clarify future research areas. Therefore, this article's contribution lies in explaining the knowledge structure of this field and proposing areas for future research. Given the above points and the growth of studies in ambidexterity, the theoretical gap addressed by this research is the lack of a systematic and coherent study of the body of knowledge in this field within the context of the digital economy. Accordingly, the main objective of this research is to systematically review the literature on ambidextrous strategy in the development of the digital economy. This involves a systematic review of existing literature on the use of ambidextrous strategy in addressing environmental discontinuities caused by digital transformation, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the development of the digital economy. This study is centered around the following questions: What is the configuration and body of knowledge regarding ambidextrous strategy in the context of the digital economy? What research proposals can advance the body of knowledge in ambidexterity within digital economy development? Which aspects of ambidexterity have received more attention, and which could be subjects for further research? Subsequently, we have endeavored to extract suggestions for future research. Theoretical Framework Digital Economy The development of the digital economy has led to significant transformations in the economic structure of society, bringing about fundamental changes. One notable example is the shift in financing methods for businesses and ideas. Most traditional companies heavily rely on personal financing from their owners and sometimes meet financial needs through bank loans. Except for a few exceptions, these companies experience low growth rates and take decades to reach their peak. However, in the digital age, the widespread use of the Internet has provided two important tools for startups: crowdfunding and collective creativity. These tools, along with financing through joint venture capital investments, increase the likelihood of success for new companies aiming to leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence in competition with giants like Google, Amazon, or Facebook. Additionally, changes in the competitive structure are observable. Companies have accumulated competitive advantages to stay at the top of the competition, but significant technological advancements can fundamentally change the competitive landscape and eliminate such advantages. Another fundamental change is that innovative ideas no longer only emerge from expensive laboratories with heavy investments. Instead, garages, small offices in incubators, and accelerators are generating new ideas and disruptive businesses just as effectively as academic settings. Today, many advanced countries recognize the importance of these workspaces and are making significant efforts to stimulate and encourage technological innovation (Makridakis, 2017). Ambidexterity Tushman first introduced the concept of ambidexterity in the context of organizational structures for innovation. March, Tushman, and O'Reilly expanded on this in the field of organizational learning, proposing two methods—exploration and exploitation—for optimal resource utilization. Ambidexterity refers to an organization's ability to exploit current capabilities while simultaneously exploring future opportunities (Alghamdi, 2018). As environmental changes occur, the relative fit of business subunits within a company fluctuates, prompting senior managers to reconfigure and reallocate resources to adapt. This approach, known as dynamic capabilities, emphasizes the key role of strategic leadership in appropriately adapting, integrating, and reconfiguring organizational skills and resources to match changing environments (O'Reilly III et al., 2009). A company's ability to be ambidextrous is at the core of dynamic capabilities. Ambidexterity requires senior managers to perform two critical tasks: first, to accurately understand changes in their competitive environment, including potential shifts in technology, competition, customers, and regulations; second, to respond to these opportunities and threats by reconfiguring tangible and intangible assets to address new challenges (O'Reilly III & Tushman, 2011). Methodology The philosophy of this research is interpretive, aiming to develop the application of ambidexterity in industries and companies within the theme of developing the digital economy. The research adopts an inductive, qualitative approach, utilizing research articles from the Web of Science database. It employs a systematic literature review method using bibliometric techniques, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines, and is analyzed with VOS viewer software. The PRISMA statement, first published in 2009, was designed to help systematic review authors transparently report why the review was conducted, what was done, and what was found. Over the past decade, advancements in systematic review methodology and terminology have necessitated an update to the guidelines. The PRISMA 2020 statement replaces the 2009 statement and includes new reporting guidance reflecting advances in methods for identifying, selecting, evaluating, and synthesizing studies. The structure and presentation of items have been revised to facilitate implementation (Page et al., 2021). Discussion and Results The Web of Science database was used to extract relevant studies. Initially, only research articles published with the two keywords "ambidexterity" and "digital economy" were retrieved, totaling only 16 articles. This small number indicates that this area requires more scholarly attention. The figure below shows the output of the keyword frequency analysis in these articles. Subsequently, the search results were input into VOSviewer software to visualize the connections. Out of 642 keywords, 64 were repeated at least four times. To make a more informed selection, 18 keywords with significant semantic relevance to the content of the articles and the existing literature were chosen for relational analysis. The remaining keywords, based on the literature review and article analysis, were not necessarily relevant to the field under study. Since the time range of the published articles was not limited, this research included the most up-to-date studies available in the Web of Science database. The publication trend also shows an upward trajectory. The chart below illustrates the keyword frequency analysis from the search using the keywords "ambidexterity" in conjunction with "digital transformation," "digital economy," and "Industry 4.0" from the Web of Science database. Discussion and Conclusion In addition to the keywords, five clusters are observed in the keyword analysis chart: (1) organizational ambidexterity, dynamic capabilities, market orientation, digital economy, big data, and absorptive capacity; (2) ambidexterity, Industry 4.0, information technology, innovation, organizational agility, and strategic alignment; (3) competitive advantage, digital transformation, resource-based view; (4) exploration, exploitation; and (5) sustainability. Although other keywords could have appeared in this analysis based on their frequency, the items shown were filtered to highlight their importance and to indicate their frequency and relationships for future discussions. These clusters have revealed important keywords that seem to require separate studies on their connections with the three main topics of "digital transformation," "Industry 4.0," and "digital economy." It is suggested that these areas be the subjects of future 

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