https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117945 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:23:56 GMT 2026-04-23T04:23:56Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118184 Title: The long-term benefits of quality costs in achieving sustainable development : a benefit-cost analysis Authors: Yükçü, Süleyman; Polat, Erhan Abstract: The future of the world is a topic that continues to generate debate and intrigue across generations, due to uncertainties and evolving concerns. As the industrial revolution, technological advancements, and urbanization have progressed, numerous challenges have arisen. Environmental pollution, income inequality at national and international levels, wars, and social conflicts all serve to underscore the significance of addressing future expectations. As a result, environmental, social, and economic sustainability has emerged as a pressing issue. In response, various economic and political calls have stressed the importance of sustainability. This study examines the relationship between sustainability and quality costs using a case example and explores a long-term benefit-cost analysis. It is suggested that, although quality costs may be higher in the short term, they yield greater benefits in the long run, thereby contributing to sustainable development. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118184 2023-06-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118068 Title: Citizen satisfaction and influential factors of e-government services during the COVID-19 crisis : a Turkish case study Authors: Akyıldız, Fulya; Can, İlker Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate citizen satisfaction with e-Government (eGov) services in Turkey amid the COVID-19 pandemic and identify the key factors influencing satisfaction levels. Data were collected from a random sample of 396 citizens residing in Usak, Turkey, who utilized eGov services throughout the crisis. Factor analysis and multiple linear regression methods were employed to examine the gathered data. The results revealed that the performance of eGov services and citizens' trust in the government were significant predictors of satisfaction with eGov services in the context of a pandemic. These findings offer valuable insights into enhancing eGov implementation in Turkey and suggest potentially beneficial strategies for nations with similar eGov infrastructures and socio-economic development. The broader implications of these findings for both practical applications and future research are subsequently explored in this study. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118068 2023-06-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118067 Title: Exploring the determinants of managerial vulnerability to manipulation : a qualitative investigation Authors: Atasever, Mesut Abstract: Managerial proficiency, a multifaceted construct, encompasses numerous attributes and is thought to be augmented by experience. Despite the inherent complexities of management roles, susceptibility to manipulation poses a significant challenge to organizational success. The cultural context in which a manager operates may exert either a positive or negative influence on this vulnerability, highlighting the need for comprehensive examination. However, the existing theoretical basis for addressing this issue remains underdeveloped. The present study seeks to identify the areas most susceptible to manipulation, thereby recognizing potential risks for managers and suggesting strategies for mitigation. A qualitative research approach was employed, with semi-structured interviews conducted and subjected to exploratory factor analysis. Findings from this investigation uncovered a multitude of domains in which managers could be misled. The outcomes of this research are expected to provide valuable insights for managerial practitioners and contribute to the broader field of management studies. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118067 2023-06-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118066 Title: A view of the future of the metaverse economy on the basis of the global financial system : new opportunities and risks Authors: Şanlısoy, Selim; Çiloğlu, Tuğberk Abstract: The burgeoning Metaverse represents an unprecedented technology frontier that is poised to redefine our financial, societal, and cultural paradigms. This research introduces a new economic term, Metanomics, to the academic discourse by conceptualizing an economic structure in which the virtual needs of humans and virtual entities are met in virtual universes, production, distribution and finance processes are designed for this purpose and interact with the real universe. A profound examination of the potential sectoral, macroeconomic, and financial repercussions of Metanomics has been carried out. Expected improvements in sectors like education, healthcare, and tourism include increased productivity, emergence of new job roles, cost efficiencies, and heightened profitability. On the macroeconomic front, an escalation in total factor productivity, employment opportunities, and growth rates is anticipated. The unique aspect of this system pertains to its potential influence on the financial landscape. Novel financial institutions wielding innovative financial instruments are forecasted to emerge in the Metaverse. Consequently, a new arena of financial transactions linking the virtual and real-world economies is predicted to emerge, causing an expansion of the financial transaction volume in the real world. These transactions, primarily facilitated by cryptocurrencies, will contribute to an accelerated globalization process. Therefore, this research endeavours to forecast the ways the Metaverse might reshape future financial systems, predict the repercussions of these interplays on the global economy, delineate potential risks and opportunities, and propose relevant policy recommendations. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118066 2023-06-01T00:00:00Z