Business Forum Vol 29 Issue 1

Abstract:

Analytics has transitioned to becoming a fundamental skill for businesses. So, being data literate is vital because utilizing data is key to decision-making in organizations. This paper describes our approach of using the Community of Inquiry framework to redesign the analytics module in the introductory MIS undergraduate course to align with job requirements. On assessing the framework’s cognitive, social, and teaching presence elements, our results indicate that students are better prepared to utilize analytics with the redesigned module. Further, using Lexalytics, an NLP software, our findings show that entry-level job applicants must possess higher-order cognitive analytics skills.

Abstract:

This paper explores what information is provided by marginal tax rates. We find evidence suggesting that the marginal tax rate signals one-year-ahead earnings and firm value. We also employ statistical subgroup regression analysis to find that the marginal tax rate provides information about one-year-ahead earnings for both high and low marginal tax rate firms. High marginal tax rate firms are associated with more robust earnings persistence than low marginal tax rate firms. Our work contributes to the understanding of earnings persistence and firm value through investigation of the predictive value of the marginal tax rate.

Abstract:

This study provides a short review of the individual, processes, and environmental dimensions that lead to radical innovation in organizations as complex adaptive systems. Based on a literature review of highly ranked peer-reviewed journals, a blueprint was developed to identify qualitative factors for each dimension while emphasizing their interdependency to overcome challenges toward radical innovation. The study has implications for both researchers and practitioners. It suggests a multidimensional understanding of radical innovation, demanding efforts from different perspectives. Furthermore, business leaders can promote exploration of strategic scenarios by combining some of the identified components.

Abstract:

Accounts receivable (A/R) financing refers to cash conversion of an organization’s eligible portfolio of outstanding invoices for its operating capital requirements. This study investigates why A/R financing is critically important in meeting the short-term cash demand of healthcare organizations, in particular. It distinguishes between two basic conversion methods, namely, invoice pledging for loan collateral, and asset sale through invoice factoring, and their respective benefits and drawbacks. In doing so, the study uncovers a quintessential paradox in healthcare finance: Insurers primarily drive healthcare organizations to seek A/R financing, yet they are often the main reason why many creditors opt to stay out of, or impose greater restrictions on, A/R financing, including how A/R financing agreements are structured. Nonetheless, the study asserts that healthcare organizations may consider A/R financing not just to override cash flow deficiency, but to grow and invest in a healthcare business, provided the anticipated financial outcome is a net gain that outweighs the costs of giving away a portion of organizational cash flow.

Abstract:

California and 12 other states have recently passed legislation to combat discrimination based on hairstyles. This article presents a review of hair bias as it relates to Black women in the United States. We first give a historical perspective of the issue and then a review of significant legal challenges and the research on hair bias in the workplace. We conclude the article with implications and recommendations to help employers create a more inclusive environment for Black females and to conform with recent legislation against hair discrimination.

Abstract:

This paper shows how distributors and retailers of the food and beverages supply chain (FBSC) coped with a natural catastrophe through innovative strategies and overcame underlying vulnerabilities and risks. External factors (power energy, telecommunications, road breakdown, FEMA) and the lack of collaboration between the links were obstacles for the chain to reach its optimal flow. Findings from the focus group methodology contend that the use of innovative strategies in a bidirectional form is an essential component of resilience to facilitate the smooth flow of the FBSC.