Research Article
Open Access
A Study on Measuring Effect of Training on Job Involvement at Workplace, Employee Absenteeism Rate and Job Satisfaction of Employees with Reference to Selected Public Sector Banks of Surat City.
Dr Mehul Ganjawala ,
Dr Darshan Bankwala ,
Dr Rohan Patel
Pages 197 - 204

View PDF
Abstract
Training of employees is one of the most important determinants of job outcomes, such as work-to-family conflict, absence rates, and happiness. Using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), this study explores the impact of training program on these factors in a sample of selected public sector banks of Surat City.A quantitative research approach is adopted, collecting primary data through structured questionnaires from bank employees. SEM is employed to analyze the direct and indirect relationships between training effectiveness, job involvement, absenteeism, and job satisfaction. The results would be helpful to provide a pragmatic basis on how training in nature affectsemployee’s engagement and behaviour at work. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and bank management in designing specialized training programs aimed at enhancing employee commitment, reducing absenteeism, increasing productivity, and improving job satisfaction within the banking sector. The study primarily examined the impact of training on three key aspects first job involvement second absenteeism rates and third job satisfaction among employees of selected public sector banks. A descriptive survey methodology was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire developed specifically for bank employees. Data analysis was conducted using the Smart PLS statistical tool, followed by appropriate interpretations. The findings revealed that employee training has a significant and positive influence on workplace job involvement, absenteeism rates, and overall job satisfaction in the context of selected public sector banks in Surat City.
Research Article
Open Access
Examining the Impact Media Marketing Activities: the Mediating Role of Brand Trust, Perceived Value, and Customer Engagement.
Prof. Madan Gowda K J ,
Dr Anand Shankar Raja M
Pages 189 - 196

View PDF
Abstract
In the digital age, media has emerged as a vital platform for marketing, enabling both individuals and businesses to cultivate brand communities and drive commercial growth through fan pages and targeted campaigns. While existing research has extensively explored media's general use, few studies have systematically examined how specific media marketing activities (MMAs) such as interactive content, influencer collaborations, and promotional campaigns influence consumer behavioral intentions. This study investigates the effects of MMAs on continuance intention, participation intention, and purchase intention, mediated by social identification, perceived value, and satisfaction. An online survey of 350 media users was conducted to empirically test these relationships. The results revealed that MMAs do not directly impact satisfaction but instead operate through two key mediators: social identification (consumers' sense of belonging to a brand community) and perceived value (their assessment of a brand’s offerings relative to cost). These factors significantly enhanced satisfaction, which in turn strengthened continuance intention (long-term engagement with the brand), participation intention (willingness to join campaigns), and purchase intention. The findings highlight the importance of fostering community-driven engagement and value-driven content in media marketing strategies. For businesses, this means prioritizing authentic interactions, exclusive benefits, and immersive brand experiences to build lasting consumer relationships. Academically, this study contributes to the understanding of psychological mechanisms underlying MMAs' effectiveness, offering a framework for future research. Practical recommendations are provided to optimize media marketing efforts, ensuring they resonate with target audiences and drive measurable outcomes.
Research Article
Open Access
Understanding Indian Consumers’ Perception and Purchase Behavior toward Organic Apparel: An Analytical Perspective
Poonam Joshi ,
Dr Lalit Kumar Yadav
Pages 182 - 188

View PDF
Abstract
Indian consumers are engaging in organic apparels as the awareness about the sustainable and organic consumption is increasing worldwide. This research paper analyses the adoption pattern, motives and perceptions of sustainable clothing. This research analyze social and behavioral drivers that have impact on intentions of consumers for organic apparel. Based on the Theory of planned behavior (TBP), an augmented frame work produced to find the influence of subjective norms, social influence, perceived behavioral control and eco-label credibility. An analytical approach was adopted and statistical analysis of 250 urban respondent tells that all the four drivers have significant impact on purchase intention and eco-label credibility emerged as one of the highest impact factors. This study give gist to the policymakers and marketers to motivate consumers to opt sustainable buying, provide more awareness.
Research Article
Open Access
HR Analytics and its Impact on Organizations Performance
Dr M. Suma ,
Dr P. Devi ,
Mohammed Shaidden ,
Mounavi Lalit Jain
Pages 176 - 181

View PDF
Abstract
In this paper we study various use of HR Analytics in different organisations and the benefits of the use of HR Analytics. With the help of analytical tools the organisations can recognise the issues like performance, employee turnover and retention employee behaviour, etc by using the data available with the organisation. This research is conducted because of the lack of use of HR in many organisations. The use of HR is undermined in many organisations but in this modern technological world various analytical tools have been developed which are used by huge corporations. In this paper we are going to see such uses of HR Analytics in 5 different organisations and they’re how the use of HR Analytics helped the organisation as well as the employees in monetary ways and change the business strategy around people - centric way.
Research Article
Open Access
Brand Karma: Do Brands Receive Back What They Give? A Study on Social Responsibility and Consumer Loyalty
N. Srividya ,
S. Lalitha ,
Nimisha Wilson ,
Yuvaraj Rajaram
Pages 171 - 175

View PDF
Abstract
The rising focus on ethical business practices has led to the increased significance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in influencing consumer perceptions and brand relationships. A conceptual study has been conducted to examine the concept of "Brand Karma," which implies that brands, in the end, get back what they give to society, communities, and stakeholders. The research looks into how the socially accountable measures convince consumer trust, authenticity, and loyalty that lasts for a long time. It points out that consumers decide on brands more than just product quality or price, but also based on moral conduct, sustainability, community engagement, and transparency of the brand. The study uses the integration of CSR, consumer trust on brand, and relational authenticity to demonstrate how these factors can be a source of sustained consumer loyalty and advocacy. The idea of Brand Karma sees CSR as not being a cost, but a strategic move that increases brand equity and deepens a competitive advantage. Besides, this paper goes further to delineate a conceptual framework associating CSR activities with consumer loyalty by associated variables such as perceived brand authenticity and belief against brand. The research findings suggest that brands which, as a matter of fact, help the society in a positive way, become the recipients of the loyalty of their consumers, thus demonstrating that responsible behavior leads to loyalty of consumers over the long run.
Research Article
Open Access
Assessment of AI-Enabled Recruitment Mechanisms for Improving Hiring Outcomes and Minimizing Bias in Organizations
Pages 166 - 170

View PDF
Abstract
This study examines the effectiveness of AI-enabled recruitment mechanisms in enhancing hiring outcomes and minimizing bias within organizational settings. Traditional recruitment practices often suffer from inefficiencies, subjectivity, and unconscious bias, which can impede the selection of the most suitable candidates. Leveraging a quantitative research design, data from 50–60 organizational units using AI recruitment tools such as applicant tracking systems, AI-driven assessments, and predictive analytics were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and paired and independent t-tests reveal that AI-enabled systems significantly improve hiring accuracy and quality, reduce human bias in candidate selection, and that algorithm transparency is critical in mitigating embedded bias. These findings underscore the potential of AI to streamline talent acquisition, promote equitable decision-making, and align recruitment processes with strategic organizational objectives. The study also highlights the importance of ethical governance, continuous monitoring, and transparency in deploying AI tools to ensure fair and effective hiring practices.
Research Article
Open Access
Ethical Leadership as a Buffer Between Organizational Politics and Employee Turnover Intentions: Evidence from the Uttar Pradesh IT Sector.
Ms. Ekta ,
Dr Lalit Kumar Yadav
Pages 157 - 165

View PDF
Abstract
This study looks at the link between organisational politics and employees' plans to leave their jobs in the Information Technology (IT) sector in Uttar Pradesh, India. It focusses on the role of ethical leadership in this link. Organisational politics, which includes behaviours that benefit oneself and a lack of openness in decision-making, is a well-known cause of employee dissatisfaction, stress, and a greater desire to leave a company. The IT industry is especially vulnerable to the bad effects of organisational politics because it works quickly and is very competitive. This makes it hard for companies to keep employees engaged and keep them working for them. Ethical leadership is when a leader follows moral rules like honesty, fairness, and openness. Studies have shown that this kind of leadership can improve how employees act and feel, including their job satisfaction and commitment to the organisation. This study suggests that ethical leadership can help protect employees from the negative effects of politics in the workplace on their plans to leave. People think that ethical leaders make the workplace more supportive by encouraging fairness and openness. This, in turn, helps people feel less angry and unhappy about organisational politics. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, which means it collects both quantitative and qualitative data. A survey of 300 employees from 15 IT companies in Uttar Pradesh was done to find out what people thought about office politics, ethical leadership, and plans to leave their jobs. We also did semi-structured interviews with 20 employees and managers to learn more about how ethical leadership affects how employees see and respond to organisational politics. The study's results show a strong positive link between organisational politics and employees' plans to leave their jobs. This means that employees are more likely to think about quitting their jobs when they feel like there is more organisational politics going on. On the other hand, ethical leadership was found to significantly lower people's plans to leave their jobs, which shows that ethical leaders can lessen the bad effects of politics in the workplace. The study also shows that ethical leadership changes the link between organisational politics and turnover intentions. In other words, ethical leadership makes organisational politics less likely to make employees want to leave. This protects employees from the bad effects of political behaviour at work.
Research Article
Open Access
Mobile Payment Ecosystems and Financial Inclusion: The Role of Facilitating Conditions and Institutional Support for the Elderly Population in Uttar Pradesh
Ms. Vijeta ,
Dr Lalit Kumar Yadav
Pages 148 - 156

View PDF
Abstract
The quick move to digital financial systems in India has changed how people use formal banking and payment systems. But older people, especially in developing areas like Uttar Pradesh, still miss out on the benefits of mobile payment systems more than other groups. This study investigates the combined effects of facilitating conditions (technological accessibility, literacy support, and network reliability) and institutional support (government policy, financial institutions, and community intermediaries) on the adoption of mobile payment systems among the elderly. This study combines structural and behavioural factors that affect financial inclusion by using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) and Institutional Theory. A mixed-method design was used to gather data from 450 older people in five districts of Uttar Pradesh. This was done through semi-structured interviews with local bank officers and fintech service providers. The results show that conditions that make using mobile payment systems easier and more trustworthy are strong predictors of those factors. On the other hand, institutional support acts as a bridge between perceived usefulness and long-term use. The analysis further illustrates that digital literacy training, localised financial infrastructure, and social trust mechanisms can alleviate age-related digital exclusion. The paper ends by suggesting a model for context-sensitive financial inclusion that focusses on partnerships between the public and private sectors and digital skills training programs for older people. These ideas add to the theoretical debate about inclusive fintech ecosystems and give policymakers in developing economies who want to close the digital gap between generations useful advice.
Research Article
Open Access
Influence of Social Media Sustainability Narratives on Consumer Purchase Intentions for Organic Apparel in Urban India
Poonam Joshi ,
Dr Lalit Kumar Yadav
Pages 138 - 147

View PDF
Abstract
There has been a steady rise in demand for organic clothing in urban India. This is because more people are becoming aware of environmentally friendly and ethical fashion practices. Social media has become a strong way for brands to tell stories about sustainability, which can change how people think about and want to buy things. As consumers become more selective about what they buy, especially when it comes to sustainable fashion, social media stories that focus on environmental impact, ethical production methods, and brand transparency are very important in changing how people act. This study seeks to examine the impact of social media sustainability narratives on consumer purchasing intentions for organic clothing in urban India. A mixed-methods approach is utilised, integrating a survey of 300 urban Indian consumers with in-depth interviews of 30 participants, to examine the impact of social media sustainability narratives on consumer attitudes towards organic apparel. The research indicates that narratives emphasising environmental sustainability, ethical fashion practices, and brand transparency substantially improve consumer purchase intentions. In particular, people are more likely to buy organic clothing when sustainability messages on social media match their values and seem real. The results indicate that social media narratives emphasising the brand's dedication to ethical production methods and environmental responsibility can bolster consumer trust, engagement, and loyalty, ultimately affecting their purchasing choices. The study adds to the growing body of research on sustainability marketing and gives Indian organic clothing brands useful tips on how to use social media to connect with customers and boost sales. Additionally, the research elucidates the strategic utilisation of social media to promote sustainability-oriented consumer behaviour within the swiftly transforming Indian fashion industry.
Research Article
Open Access
From Copyright to Culture: Fair Use Doctrine's Influence on Creative Labor and Content Diversity in the Digital Age
Rashi Makhija ,
Yamini Chandra Prabha ,
Mr. Vaibhav Kumar ,
Praneeta Jha
Pages 132 - 137

View PDF
Abstract
The complex implications of fair use doctrine on creative work and subsequent universality of content in the dynamic digital landscapes are addressed in the paper below. Specifically, it examines how the deliberative latitude of the fair use doctrine can influence the dynamics of digital content generation by copyrighted creator and the comparative affordability of local goods in various jurisdictions. It also deals with the jurisdiction nuances of the comparison of the broad fair use doctrine in the United States with its more reputed counterparts in other nations to understand how the jurisdiction nuances would be differently applied to the creative expression and production cost. The critique analysis is on the adequacy of the current frameworks of fair use rules to realize the right of the original creator of content and the potential of the user-generated and generative artificial intelligence to revolutionize the content contrary to all expectations particularly in view of the disruptive nature of these technologies to the traditional creative industries. The paper will also continue to explore the possible impacts that generative artificial intelligence has on copyright law, including whether or not AI generated content is considered a derivative work and the strength with which the creation of AI models utilizing copyrighted content is covered under fair use. This inquiry will critically assess the question of the compatibility of the principles of fair use to generative AI models and most especially to their training stages with the classic arguments of the very existence of copyright legislation, of stimulating the advancement of science and arts, or it will confer an unparalleled, potentially unfair, privilege to AI over humans in art.
Research Article
Open Access
Understanding Consumer Behaviour through the Perspective of Gendered Service Provision in Banking Institutions
Dr Srinivas H N ,
Dharanendra M ,
Sowbhagya T R ,
Pushpa Shree R
Pages 126 - 131

View PDF
Abstract
This study examines consumer behaviour in the banking sector through the lens of gendered service delivery, focusing on how the gender of frontline employees influences customer perceptions, satisfaction and loyalty in urban Indian banks. Guided by Social Role Theory and the SERVQUAL framework, the research investigates how gender-sensitive service interactions shape consumer experiences, with particular emphasis on the role of women employees in fostering empathy, trust and relational value. The study is based on a survey of 250 banking customers in Bengaluru, representing both public and private sector banks. Statistical analysis using correlation and ANOVA revealed that gendered service provision has a significant positive relationship with consumer satisfaction and that women employees play a vital role in shaping customers’ perceptions, trust and loyalty. Female customers reported 12–18% higher satisfaction in gender-matched service encounters, reflecting the impact of empathetic and inclusive service behaviour. The findings highlight the importance of gender inclusivity and diversity training in enhancing customer relationships and service quality. The study contributes to the growing understanding of gendered consumer psychology in financial services and provides insights for banks to develop equitable and customer-centric service practices within India’s evolving banking landscape.
Research Article
Open Access
Influencer Marketing and Social Media: Drivers of Tourists’ Destination Choices in India
Pawan Kumar ,
Shikha Rani
Pages 117 - 125

View PDF
Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the drivers of influencer marketing and social media on tourists' destination choice behaviour in India, considering demographic factors such as age, education, and travel experience. In the age of digital and social media, which are driving a change in consumer behaviour, influencers are extremely influential and enable them to influence potential tourists' decisions, providing an authentic touch that corresponds to tourists’ needs. Younger tourists pay more attention to the influencer’s followers’ volume, while older tourists pay more attention to the quality of content and the interaction with the influencer. The study also discovered that low-educated respondents think entertainment and informational content are relatively more important, while highly educated respondents regard informative and well-made content as relatively more important. Moreover, the research also reveals that novice travellers are more likely to rely on influencer recommendations as opposed to experienced ones. These results imply that tourism marketers should make their marketing strategies more segment-specific and the content of their message compatible with the needs of target segments. This study supports the knowledge on the influence of social media and influencer marketing to influence tourists for their destination choice, especially in India with age and education differences, which will help marketers for a more successful marketing approach with consideration to age, education and experience in travel.
Research Article
Open Access
Strategic Approaches for Improving Customer Relationships in the Restaurant Industry: A Study on Consumer Perceptions in Haryana
Ms. Latasha ,
Dr Pooja Gupta
Pages 105 - 116

View PDF
Abstract
This study investigates strategic approaches to enhance customer relationships within the restaurant industry, focusing on consumer perceptions in Haryana, India. The restaurant sector faces increasing competition and evolving consumer expectations, necessitating effective strategies to foster lasting customer relationships. Understanding consumer perceptions and preferences is crucial for developing targeted strategies that enhance satisfaction and loyalty. This research aims to identify key factors influencing customer perceptions of restaurant services in Haryana and propose strategic recommendations for improving customer relationships.
Research Article
Open Access
Redefining Tradition: The Role of Digital Art and Artificial Intelligence in Contemporary Artistic Practices
Vipin Sharma ,
Dr Dhruv Sabharwal
Pages 94 - 104

View PDF
Abstract
All disciplines have been impacted by new technologies, including the arts, particularly current and modern art. All forms of art, including traditional arts, were greatly impacted by the quick growth of digital technology and artificial intelligence. The incorporation of AI and digital technologies has led to the emergence of new forms of artistic expression, allowing creators to produce ground-breaking works that question traditional limits regarding medium, technique, and authorship. It had a significant impact on the artist as well. Tension has resulted from this development's increasing blurring of the lines separating fine arts, new media art, technology, and business. We find ourselves wondering: Does this kind of art require the same fundamental artistic abilities as the original? What are the variations, how do they differ, and how does it either favourably or unfavourably impact artists? Do traditional arts still maintain their unique artistic character, or have they included into contemporary art? Can traditional art be surpassed or replaced by digital art? Because this kind of art was so easily consumed, published, and shared, the artist felt compelled to stay up to date with this phenomenon. As a result, he was obliged to follow the quick evolution and keep up with the demands of the times. What inspired the artist to alter the artwork's subject matter or even invent a brand-new one? Since creation is a never-ending process, the convergence of art and technology has produced fresh creative innovations.
Research Article
Open Access
A Study on the Impact of Online Platforms on the Sales and Distribution of Textiles and Apparel in Bengaluru.
Dr Kavitha Yadav S K ,
Dr Dakshayini B S
Pages 82 - 93

View PDF
Abstract
Purpose of the study: This study primarily aims to thoroughly examine how digital platforms have drastically shifted the sales and distribution frameworks in the textile and apparel industry situated in the bustling city of Bengaluru. This investigation also intends to painstakingly differentiate and appraise the key factors that greatly influence consumer behavior concerning the surging popularity of online shopping, while systematically evaluating the important effects that e-commerce has exerted on established business models that have been the cornerstone of the marketplace, thus offering critical knowledge that can be leveraged by stakeholders and policymakers involved in this domain for thoughtful decision-making and strategic advancement. Design/ Methodology: A structured questionnaire was used to carry out the survey. Data were gathered using both offline and online methods. Data were gathered online using Google Forms. Participants were chosen using random sampling and convenience sampling methods. A total of 225 replies from consumers and 135 replies from textile and apparel industries were used for data analysis. Findings: The investigation revealed that elements including convenience, diversity, competitive pricing strategies and assurance in return policies substantially impact consumer inclinations toward online purchasing within the textile and apparel sector of Bengaluru. Moreover, digital platforms have transformed sales and distribution mechanisms, compelling conventional enterprises to adopt hybrid operational models and modifying supply chain dynamics within the industry. Limitations: The research is confined to Bengaluru, affecting the applicability of results to other locales with distinct market conditions. The data obtained from consumers, retailers and distributors may not accurately reflect the broader population due to sampling limitations. Rapid changes in e-commerce and consumer behavior may make certain conclusions ephemeral and less applicable over time. The research may inadequately represent the viewpoints of all relevant stakeholders, including manufacturers and third-party logistics entities. Survey and interview answers from participants can often reflect a tendency towards social approval or may involve inaccurate self-perception. The analysis may overlook the implications of emerging technologies like AI and blockchain, which could significantly impact sales and distribution. Originality Value: The distinctiveness of this investigation is rooted in its concentration on Bengaluru, a metropolitan area situated at the intersection of conventional textile markets and an expeditiously expanding e-commerce industry. Through a thorough examination of localized consumer inclinations and the particular effects of digital platforms on sales and distribution, the research offers pragmatic insights specifically designed for this exceptional market environment. Paper Type: Research Paper
Research Article
Open Access
Linking Employee Engagement with Organizational Productivity in Hybrid Workplaces
Ms. Anuradha ,
Neeraj sehgal ,
Shivali Yadav ,
Dr Rita ,
Dr Anjali Gupta
Pages 70 - 81

View PDF
Abstract
The rise of hybrid work models has changed traditional employee dynamics, creating new challenges for maintaining engagement and productivity. This study investigates how employee engagement relates to organizational productivity in hybrid workplaces, highlighting the mediating role of communication quality and the moderating impact of leadership style. Using the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) and Social Exchange theories, the research employs a mixed-method approach. Quantitative data were collected through standardized surveys from hybrid employees across various industries, while qualitative interviews with HR managers provided contextual insights. The results show that employee engagement significantly influences organizational productivity, with communication quality serving as an important mediator. Moreover, supportive and transformational leadership styles strengthen this relationship by fostering trust and collaboration in dispersed teams. The study contributes to the HRM literature by clarifying how engagement mechanisms operate in hybrid contexts and by offering practical guidance for organizations seeking to enhance workforce productivity through engagement-focused strategies.
Research Article
Open Access
Leadership for the Future: The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Innovation and Employee Effectiveness in the Digital Age
Sarika Sharma ,
Dr Kostubh Raman Chaturvedi ,
Dr Shivani Agarwal
Pages 55 - 69

View PDF
Abstract
This study investigates how transformational leadership (TL) fosters innovation and enhances employee effectiveness in Indian organizations navigating digital transformation. Drawing on Social Exchange Theory (SET) and the Resource-Based View (RBV), we propose and test a mediation model where innovation links TL to employee effectiveness. Data were collected from 502 employees across multiple industries and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results indicate that TL significantly drives both innovation and employee effectiveness, with innovation partially mediating the relationship. These findings highlight TL’s role in cultivating innovation-friendly climates that enhance workforce adaptability and productivity. The study extends leadership theory to India’s collectivist, hierarchical context, while offering practical implications for leadership development, HR strategy, and digital readiness. By situating TL in the digital age, this research contributes to both scholarly debates and managerial practice.
Research Article
Open Access
A Study Using Garrett Ranking Approach in The City of Kolkata on The Ranking of Select Fashion and Lifestyle Retail Outlets & Factors Shaping Customer Perception Pertaining to The Effectiveness of Fashion & Lifestyle Retail Outlets.
Pages 50 - 54

View PDF
Abstract
The lifestyle and fashion retail market in India is expanding rapidly, driven by reasons such as increased disposable incomes, urbanization, and a trend toward branded retail. In addition, several global enterprises are entering the market, and new technologies have been embraced to improve the shopping experience. The Indian lifestyle and fashion retail sector is extremely competitive, with renowned local brands and an expanding presence of foreign retailers. This rivalry is spurred by causes such as the expanding e-commerce industry, shifting consumer preferences, and continued infrastructure and logistics development. While increased rivalry poses issues for certain firms, it also provides opportunity for innovation and expansion throughout the sector. The fashion and retail business in Kolkata has risen significantly as a result of the establishment of fashion and retail outlet stores such as Pantaloons, Reliance Trends, Shoppers Stop, Westside, Max and Zudio. This survey aims to determine which fashion and retail outlets are most popular with Kolkata customers. Furthermore, this study seeks to identify the elements that impact Kolkata customers' perceptions regarding the efficacy of fashion and lifestyle retail establishments.
Research Article
Open Access
Neuromarketing Insights for Predicting Consumer Purchase Intent
A. Iyappan ,
Dr M. Soundarya ,
Dr Robby Baby ,
Dr Ravi I A ,
Dr Leela M H ,
Dr J. Rajalakshmi
Pages 42 - 49

View PDF
Abstract
Consumer purchase behavior has traditionally been at the center of attention for marketers aiming to create persuasive advertisements and to increase engagement. Conventional survey-based methods, which are still the popular choice, have their limitations in terms of self-report biases and they do not fully measure subconscious reactions that usually influence consumer decisions. Neuromarketing, which is the application of neuroscience to marketing research, is equipped with impartial instruments to determine consumers' responses by physiological and neural measures. This research is about applying brain science in marketing research, especially the use of EEG and eye-tracking, to figure out if a consumer is going to buy a product. The physiological data of 285 people were studied in order to figure out the relationships between physiological responses and self-reported purchase intent in response to marketing stimuli. The descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses were used to investigate the relationships between the independent variables (type of advertisement and product category) and the dependent variable (purchase intent). According to the findings, both neural engagement, which was assessed through frontal alpha and beta activity, and visual attention, which was gauged through fixation duration and number of fixations, substantially predicted purchase intent with fixation duration being the most powerful predictor. The emotional advertisements produced higher purchase intent than the informational advertisements, and the product category had a moderating effect on these changes. This research shows the potential of EEG and eye-tracking integration in the comprehension of consumer behavior and offers practical suggestions to marketers who want to improve their advertising strategies.
Research Article
Open Access
Rethinking Quality Signals: How Service Quality Components Shape Image, Value, and Alumni Loyalty in Indian B-Schools
Kusuma Bathula ,
Dr P. Umamaheswari Devi
Pages 31 - 41

View PDF
Abstract
This study examines how service quality dimensions in Indian business schools influence institutional image, perceived value, student satisfaction, and alumni give-back intentions. Using PLS-SEM analysis of data from 536 management students across South Indian states like Telangana, Tamilnadu, Karnataka. The research tests an integrated model linking five service quality dimensions—academic aspects, infrastructure, technology, placements, and industry collaborations—to behavioral outcomes through the Stimulus-Organism-Response framework. Results reveal asymmetric effects: academic aspects, infrastructure, technology, and placements significantly enhance institutional image, while infrastructure, technology, placements, and industry collaborations drive perceived value. Notably, academic quality influences image but not perceived value, whereas industry collaborations show the reverse pattern. Student satisfaction emerges as a crucial mediator, translating institutional image (β=0.167) and perceived value (β=0.091) into give-back intentions. The findings demonstrate that contemporary management students evaluate educational value primarily through employability outcomes and technological sophistication rather than traditional academic metrics alone.
Research Article
Open Access
Digital Transformation as A Catalyst for Business Model Innovation: Balancing Challenges and Opportunities
Dr Praveen Kumar Gandra ,
Dr V. P. Palanisamy ,
Dr B. Madhusudhan Rao ,
Dr M. Bala Koteswari ,
Atul Kumar Pathak ,
Dr S Radha Krishnan
Pages 23 - 30

View PDF
Abstract
Digital transformation (DT) is fundamentally changing the way businesses work by using new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics in the organizations' systems. While it offers efficiency, innovation, and new value propositions, the traditional firms which are still stuck with the old ways of doing things, have to face cultural resistance, the hardness of the old system, and lack of necessary skills that make the implementation process complex. This paper empirically studies how digital transformation affects business model innovation (BMI) and firm performance (FP) of 312 Indian firms from different sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and services. The research, grounded in the Dynamic Capabilities Theory and the Business Model Innovation framework assesses how the implementation of technology, the flexibility of the organization, the support from the leadership, and the digital competence of the employees can help the organization to achieve the transformation outcomes. The research tools used for data analysis were SPSS 28 and AMOS 26. The evidence obtained through confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling shows that the different aspects of DT have a significantly strong positive impact on BMI, which in turn, is the mediator in the relationship between DT and FP. The organizational flexibility or agility is one of the mediators that only partially mediates these connections, while the obstinacy of the legacy system negatively affects DT’s influence on FP. The results indicate that the digital transformation success is not only a matter of technological integration, but it also requires the organization to be agile and have human capabilities. The research accomplishes the theory goal of linking dynamic capabilities with business model reconfiguration and supplies the actionable insights to the managers and community leaders. In the case of the traditional firms, the way to digital victory is by changing the structures, retraining the workforce, and rejuvenating the strategic intent.
Research Article
Open Access
The Rise of Fractional Employment: An Empirical Analysis of HR Challenges in Managing Part-Time Experts in Tech Startups
Ravikumar Gandamala ,
Dr P Bheemaiah ,
Y. Arun Kumar
Pages 12 - 22

View PDF
Abstract
The rapid evolution of employment models in the digital economy has paved the way for alternative talent strategies, notably fractional employment. Tech startups increasingly rely on high-skill, part-time professionals—such as fractional CTOs, CMOs, and legal advisors—to drive strategic decision-making while maintaining financial agility. However, existing research has predominantly focused on gig work, freelancing, and remote employment in lower-skilled contexts (Kässi & Lehdonvirta, 2018), leaving a significant gap regarding the HR challenges associated with managing fractional experts. This study empirically investigates these challenges, with specific attention to onboarding processes, performance evaluation, role integration, legal compliance, and communication barriers. A structured, closed-ended questionnaire was administered to HR professionals in tech startups, targeting key areas where traditional HR practices intersect with the demands of a flexible workforce. The research tests four hypotheses examining the relationships between onboarding, contractual clarity, performance evaluation, integration practices, and overall organizational outcomes. Findings are expected to offer actionable HR strategies that optimize the management of fractional talent and contribute to both HR management theory and practical frameworks for contemporary startup environments.
Research Article
Open Access
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Smart Learning: An Empirical Study on Student Academic Performance
Dr Girish V ,
Shivanna K M ,
Lokesha N P ,
Prakash H V
Pages 1 - 11

View PDF
Abstract
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the digital transformation era's educational landscape and its impact on student achievement has grown in recent years. The proposed study will examine the application of AI-based learning tools by students enrolled in institutions of higher learning and the degree to which these learning tools can affect their performance in terms of efficiency and engagement in learning and overall academic performance. A quantitative and empirical method was used to gather data on 310 students spread across the state of Karnataka using a structured questionnaire. The analysis has used statistical packages such as Pearson correlation, regression and ANOVA to analyse correlation between awareness, adoption, usefulness and ethical issues and institutional support. Research shows that students' academic achievement is positively correlated with their familiarity with and use of AI technologies. Perceived usefulness was a significant factor in determining learning involvement and challenges and ethical issues were observed to be interconnected with each other, and the introduction of AI in the responsible way is a necessity. Also, the institutional support proved to be one of the major predictors of the entrepreneurial success of students in AI-driven ventures. The research finds that AI does not only improve learning experience and interaction, but also innovation and academic performance, assuming the accessibility, ethics, and institutional facilitation is well-handled.