https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/63796 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:22:14 GMT 2026-04-08T03:22:14Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64103 Title: Mapping blockchain applications : a typology for digital marketing Abstract: Blockchain technology is an emerging opportunity that is earmarked to fundamentally transform the marketing industry in its various facets such as advertising, trust, security and loyalty. This study shall attempt to form a typology of the current and upcoming blockchain applications highlighting the main areas of interest. A synopsis of the latest marketing innovations within this technology is included. This research takes a unique role within the marketing and blockchain community, such that it identifies, maps and integrates these two industries. Potential improvements such as immutable code, algorithms, a shared ledger and decentralised storage shall assist in addressing long standing issues. Due to the relatively new nature of the industry the selected data collection and subsequent qualitative survey was conducted through an in depth online content analysis. Results were recorded to form a dataset, and the main areas of interest eventually coded and extracted. Results showed that the batch of applications are focused on the decentralised advertising industry. As a follow up to the preliminary data collection, semi-structured interviews were also conducted to further probe the marketing industry’s perception and prospects of the results. These interviews further reinforced the study's findings. Finally, both the conceptual and methodological challenges faced to implement the solutions were identified, addressed and discussed. Description: M.SC.STRATEGIC MANGT.&MARKETING Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64103 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64102 Title: An investigative exploration into perceived obstacles women entrepreneurs face in Malta Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the perceived barriers which female entrepreneurs in particular encounter in today’s business environment. It also, highlights the factors that are affecting success and performance of women entrepreneurs in Malta. Methodology: This study was conducted using a qualitative technique whereby interviews were conducted on one to one basis. It was deemed to use a qualitative approach for this study since one can delve deeper into the research questions. Qualitative research is primarily exploratory research. It is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons and opinions. Findings: The findings from this research provide evidence that the participants don’t see why women cannot be at par with men, but several participants stated that issues arise when women become mothers. The main conclusions drawn from this study is that the main care responsibilities are still considered to be women’s main responsibility. Research limitations: • The time available of such respondents • Lack of women entrepreneurs in the same sectors as male entrepreneurs • The lack of recent statistical data on women entrepreneurs Practical implications: In today’s world improving global economies is one of the most important challenges every country have to face. Even in the 21st century women entrepreneurs are still facing challenges when pursuing a career path in entrepreneurship. Studies suggest that women face more difficulties in accessing finance to capital, women may face more discrimination, and find themselves facing work life balance issues. This study helps to better understand the perception of the entrepreneurs themselves that are facing these perceived challenges. Originality: This study is aimed to view the perception of the entrepreneurs, and those agents who support entrepreneurs. To better understand the reality that such entrepreneurs are facing, this study also aimed to bridge the gap between what the literature states and what is perceived to be the reality in Malta. Description: M.SC.STRATEGIC MANGT.&MARKETING Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64102 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64100 Title: Determinants of entrepreneurial intention among university business students using the theory of planned behaviour Abstract: Purpose – This paper sets out to present a detailed empirical investigation of the entrepreneurial intentions of business students across two different cultures (Malta and Nigeria). The research intends to throw light on the influence of culture in entrepreneurial intention formation. Most of the earlier studies have been conducted in the western cultures. The author employs the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), in which intentions are regarded as resulting from attitudes, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms. Design/methodology/approach – The methodology used was a replication study among samples of undergraduate students at two different universities (total n = 383). Five operationalisations of intentions are used as well as a composite measure. Prior to the main study, qualitative research conducted at two other universities (total n = 373) and a quantitative research at six other universities (total n = 1074) were held to operationalise the components of the TPB. Findings – The results show that the most important variable to explain entrepreneurial intentions are perceived behavioural control (entrepreneurial self-efficacy) across the two cultures and the components of the theory of planned behaviour are invariant. The findings support the applicability of self-efficacy and attitudes on entrepreneurial intentions. Research limitations/implications – Various research design features are used that result in better and more detailed explanations of entrepreneurial intentions. Practical implications – Several suggestions are offered on how entrepreneurial intentions can be improved and aided through entrepreneurial education at the university. Originality/value – The study provides detailed and solid results on entrepreneurial intentions which are positioned in the career literature. Description: M.SC.STRATEGIC MANGT.&MARKETING Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64100 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64099 Title: Autonomous vehicles : the perception of the Maltese and their willingness to pay Abstract: The main purpose of this research is to determine whether the Maltese population is willing to adopt autonomous vehicles, should they become available in the Maltese Islands. The study also analyses their willingness to pay and whether different types of demographics have an impact on their perception. It also aims to identify what are the main concerns of the Maltese general public on this new technology. Primary research was conducted through a telephone survey. A sample size of 385 was gathered, which is representative to the whole population of the Maltese Islands. The results presented showed that the population is not familiar with the subject. Furthermore, the Maltese population is not sure on the concept of adopting autonomous vehicles on our roads. The younger generation are willing to spend more when buying a brand new autonomous vehicle. The study concludes by stating that the Maltese people would not take the opportunity to lease out their personal autonomous vehicle to the general public. Description: M.SC.STRATEGIC MANGT.&MARKETING Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64099 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z