Research on business, work, and organizations. Covers dissent and management, innovation, workplace activism, and generative AI in investing.
A new study by Michigan State University sociologist Zachary Neal challenges conventional wisdom on economic development. According to Neal's research, attracting business air-travel passengers first can lead to a significant increase in jobs.
Researchers propose a new adjustable balance mortgage contract that resets the loan balance and monthly payment based on the mortgaged home's market value. This design reduces the economic incentive to default, costing about the same as a typical fixed-rate mortgage.
Research finds that asking for advice can increase likelihood of patronizing a business and donating to a nonprofit. On the other hand, soliciting expectations creates distance and reduces subsequent transactions.
A study published in Psychological Science suggests that acknowledging group-based differences fosters cooperation among coworkers from different backgrounds. Recognizing expatriates as foreigners can lead to sharing work-related and cultural information, promoting collaboration.
A new study finds that outsourcing can lead to softened competition among firms, resulting in higher prices for consumers. The practice also leads to lost jobs for workers. Businesses may outsource to reduce costs, but the savings are often not passed on to consumers, instead being used to maintain profit margins.
A web-based curriculum was found to be an effective method for teaching and assessing systems-based practice concepts in surgical residents. The study showed a significant improvement in knowledge of health care business concepts and principles, with residents reporting a preference for Web-based learning.
A new study by Daniel M. Bartels and Oleg Urminsky found that consumers struggle to connect with their future selves, leading to impatient consumption habits. When people feel a strong sense of identity with their future self, they are more patient and willing to save for long-term benefits.
Researchers synthesize traffic matrices based on real network patterns, enabling network researchers to test communication network designs. This will help network providers make efficient and reliable networks.
The ImREAL project aims to create a simulated learning environment that responds to users' behavior and adapts accordingly. Researchers will develop intelligent tools to encourage trainees to detect subtle differences in communication and social cues across cultures.
Researchers identify skills, attitudes, and behaviors associated with successful households, including high education levels, younger household heads, and a preference for formal financial markets. Successful households also exhibit persistence in their financial management, leading to significant net worth growth over time.
Researchers found that video game training improves employee knowledge by 11%, skill-based knowledge by 14% and retention rate by 9%. Games work best when engaging users and provide flexible access.
A study by Rice University found that investment analysts' negative stock recommendations increase the probability of CEO dismissal. The researchers analyzed panel data on S&P 500 companies from 2000 to 2005 and found a significant impact of downgrades on CEO turnover decisions.
A recent study suggests that mixed-use neighborhoods can lead to lower levels of violent crime in both impoverished and affluent areas. However, the study found that increases in business-residential density initially lead to higher levels of violent crimes before declining after a certain threshold is reached.
A new study published in The Leadership Quarterly found that individuals with high emotional intelligence (EQ) are more likely to be perceived as leaders by their peers. Emotional ability tests revealed that those identified as leaders scored higher on tasks such as emotion recognition and regulation strategies.
A study by Maurice Levi, Kai Li, and Feng Zhang finds that high testosterone levels in CEOs negotiating mergers and acquisitions are associated with a higher rate of dropped deals and increased hostile takeover attempts. Younger CEOs with high testosterone levels tend to reject low offers, even if it's against their interest.
A recent study published in the INFORMS journal Management Science found that young, male CEOs with higher levels of testosterone are more likely to initiate, scrap, or resist mergers and acquisitions. This is due to testosterone's association with male dominance-seeking in competitive situations.
16.6 million small business employees are eligible for tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, with benefits including increased competition among insurers and reduced health insurance premiums. By 2013, 3.4 million workers may take advantage of the tax credit, which increases in value to up to 50% of premium contribution by 2014.
Scientists have discovered a powerful new catalyst that can significantly boost fuel cell efficiency, paving the way for 'personalized energy systems' that generate clean electricity 24/7. This technology could free homes and businesses from dependence on traditional power sources.
The study, led by D. Michael Lindsay, categorizes evangelical leaders into pragmatic, heroic, circumspect, and brazen types based on their personal faith engagement in workplace decision-making. The research highlights the diversity of evangelicals' approaches to business leadership and their motivations.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people are more satisfied with their experiences when they make personal choices, especially when the goal is pleasure. In contrast, when the goal is to achieve a higher-end consequence, there is no difference in satisfaction between those who choose and those who do not.
Scientists have discovered a powerful new catalyst that can boost oxygen production in fuel cells by 200-fold, advancing the development of personalized energy systems. This breakthrough could enable homes and businesses to produce their own clean energy for heating, cooling, and powering cars.
Research found that unselfish workers who volunteer for tasks and take on details are also among those most wanted to be voted off a team. This phenomenon occurs because others perceive these individuals as setting an unrealistic standard, making themselves appear worse by comparison.
A new article highlights the importance of considering cultural differences in the workplace. Research shows that people from different cultures have varying expectations about teamwork, leadership, and family involvement. By acknowledging these differences, employers can create more effective teams and improve collaboration.
A recent UC Denver study found that attractive women face discrimination when applying for certain jobs considered masculine, such as research and development or construction supervisor roles. In contrast, attractive men faced no similar disadvantage. The study highlights the existence of a double standard in hiring practices between m...
A study by the University of Illinois research team found that generational gaps in workplaces cannot be solved with broad stereotypes or age-based solutions. The researchers identified three primary factors that contribute to generational factions: significant life events, work tenure, and job duties.
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has awarded £38 million to 46 outstanding UK researchers, supporting their development as world-leading scientists and engineers. The fellowships aim to drive innovation and tackle major challenges such as climate change and sustainable energy.
New research from North Carolina State University finds that business practices like outsourcing and project-based teams lead to worker stress, decreased employee loyalty, and lower quality of life. Employers also face long-term problems such as increased turnover and higher costs.
A new study found that smoking bans in Minneapolis and St. Paul led to a 3-6% increase in bar employment and a 4% rise in restaurant employment, contradicting predictions of job losses. The research suggests that clean indoor air policies promote healthier workplaces for workers and patrons.
TWAS has received the 2010 Premio Feltrinelli award for its unprecedented accomplishments in promoting scientific capacity in developing countries. The prize includes a Euro 250,000 cash award and recognizes TWAS's inspirational mission to advance global economic and social well-being through South-South cooperation in science.
According to the poll, most employees reported that their company provided hand sanitizer, encouraged sick workers to stay home, and expanded leave policies. Large companies were more likely to take these measures than smaller ones. The survey suggests that businesses will play a vital role in public health during outbreaks.
A University of Illinois study found that relying too much on e-mail and videoconferences can lead to a lack of trust among team members, which is critical for successful collaboration. The research suggests that businesses should balance the use of technology with face-to-face meetings to recharge relationships and maintain trust.
A team of researchers, led by Christine Williams, received the Best Research Paper award for their study on state-wide interagency collaboration initiatives. The research explores differences among state public safety programs, with a focus on Public Safety Networks in the United States.
Researchers in Taiwan have devised a formula to reduce queuing time, improving customer loyalty and sales. The 'balking index' predicts the number of frustrated customers who will leave their position in the queue.
Researchers from UAF and New Mexico Tech have set up a lightning-mapping array near Eyjafjallajokull to study the volcano's electrical conditions. The team has already observed unusual phenomena, such as upward-propagated lightning into the ash plume.
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study estimates annual Natural Capital loss to be between EUR 1.35 trillion - EUR 3.1 trillion, with coral reefs valued at US$ 172 billion annually. TEEB leader Pavan Sukhdev calls for decisive action to prevent biodiversity loss.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Tansel Yilmazer found that small business relationships with financial institutions affect loan applications and approvals. The study, published in Financial Management, suggests that good relationships can lead to lower loan rates during economic expansions.
A new study suggests that the G20 Toronto summit may not lead to significant reforms in financial regulations. The study highlights the challenges of coordinating policies among countries with diverse financial structures, making harmonization a difficult task.
A group of Tel Aviv University graduate students proposes a 'business net' project to connect Gaza with the international business community, promoting peace and prosperity. The project aims to develop a thriving industrial park in Gaza, providing a healthy protein supply and connecting the region to foreign investment.
A new study examines why brand extensions succeed or fail, highlighting the impact of competitive brands on consumer preferences. The research reveals that when a parent brand is perceived as familiar in an extension product category, it can actually lead to poorer performance.
Researchers found that exclusive licensing deals are a tool for collaboration and risk management in product development, allowing innovators to manage risks while leveraging cooperation. The study analyzed over 200 exclusive licensing deals and suggests that granting rights to a sole partner can curb risk and incentivize cooperation.
The Best Agers project aims to identify methods to keep the older generation in the workforce, as Europe faces an aging population. Nineteen organisations from eight Baltic Sea countries participate in the project, which has a budget of SEK 44 million.
The global rush to develop modern financial institutions, including stock markets, has had a negative impact on the economy. In many countries, markets were created without a solid foundation, leading to disastrous outcomes.
A new study suggests that people with high self-control tend to burn out quickly, while those who think like marathon runners can conserve energy and avoid burnout. Dr. Danit Ein-Gar's research offers tips for managing workload and achieving better performance by adopting a proactive approach.
The new ID card features an RFID chip, cryptography, and a six-digit PIN for secure access to personal data. It enables citizens to validate their identity online and use the eID function for various services like banking and shopping, promoting confidence in digital transactions.
Researchers found that businesses can reduce waiting times by up to 50% by manipulating customer perception, using techniques such as fragmented lines and distractions. By designing well-structured lines and providing enjoyable experiences, businesses can decrease the subjective waiting duration, turning a long wait into a short one.
Greg Morgan, an Associate Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, received the Derek Price/Rod Webster Prize for his paper on Rosalind Franklin's research on tobacco mosaic virus. The paper offers a new interpretation of scientific cooperation and competition in molecular biology.
A new study shows that people tend to compress time when they believe two events are connected, such as drinking caffeine and feeling energized. This effect is due to the participants' underestimation of the time-to-onset of products they have used in the past.
Dr. David Vaccari, Stevens Institute of Technology associate professor and director of Civil, Environmental and Ocean Engineering Department, received the 2009 Educator of the Year Award from New Jersey ACEC for his positive impact on the engineering profession.
A landmark study by British and American researchers found that pension funds using decentralized management structures outperform those with balanced management structures. This is due to superior stock-selection skills and a competitive aspect among specialist managers, offsetting potential diversification issues.
Experts surveyed lawn care and landscape professionals about disease- and insect-resistant plants, finding that respondents believe these plants will increase business benefits and client satisfaction. The survey results show that fewer than 4% of respondents are concerned about the impact on their businesses.
A study published in Psychological Science shows that when distributing resources, people's ideas of fairness change depending on the item's value. Intrinsic values like food or vacation days are seen as fair to distribute equally, while market-based attitudes dominate for monetary rewards.
M.G. Prasad, a professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, received the Bharat Gaurav Award for his work in noise and vibration control. The award recognizes his efforts to inspire others towards remarkable achievement and promote global participation in India's economic development.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that religious individuals tend to rely on their own beliefs when inferring what God might believe, but are less constrained when reasoning about others' beliefs. This suggests a unique egocentric bias in believers' thinking about God's views.
A University of Illinois economist suggests reducing mail delivery to five days a week could help the USPS recover from financial losses. However, this move might also lead to a loss of lucrative business customers who rely on frequent deliveries for advertisements and promotions.
Researchers found that managers tend to downplay the significance of their past forecasting mistakes when predicting future earnings. This underestimation can influence how investors respond to new forecast announcements, contributing to persistent price drift after an earnings announcement. Further study is needed to determine if this...
Research published in MIS Quarterly found that detailed Service Level Agreements can increase trust and commitment between clients and vendors. The study suggests that overly specific clauses can actually reduce trust, emphasizing the need for flexible negotiation processes.
Thomas A. Wright, K-State professor and Jon Wefald Leadership Chair, was named a Fellow of the American Psychological Association for outstanding contributions to the field of psychology. He is also a Fellow in two other prestigious organizations, marking a rare achievement by a single scholar.
A new study released in PLoS ONE explores the cumulative impacts of energy development on species in the West, with potential consequences for sage-grouse populations. The research highlights the need for scientifically credible conservation planning tools to balance natural resource development with wildlife conservation.
A study found that the replacement of a black manager with a non-black manager results in a significant decline in the number of blacks employed, especially in Southern stores. Black managers tend to hire people who live close to them, while non-black managers hire from a broader network.
Research by McMaster University reveals that identity theft and fraud are increasing concerns for consumers, with phishing, credit card skimming, and insider theft being major threats. The study's model defines ID theft and fraud as two distinct problems, aiming to educate the public on how their personal data can be misappropriated an...