International Journal of Management Trends: Key Concepts and Research @journal-ijmt
Journal articles - International Journal of Management Trends: Key Concepts and Research
All articles: 55
Impact of information on food packaging on consumer behaviour: trends for 2023
Scientific article
Lack of trust is one of the most important consequences of the influence of digital media on consumer. The ease of publishing content without any verification has led to a significant drop in the degree of trust in published information. The proliferation of brands and new products and their need to impose themselves, often with inaccurate information, has accelerated the erosion of consumer trust in „branded” messages. The aim of this study is to explore the levels of consumer confidence in information on the packaging, provided by food manufacturers; and to understand the trends in consumer behaviour based on their relation to provided information.
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Influence of flair factors on compensation – balancing contributions and pay equity
Scientific article
The utmost priority of every organization in today’s competitive environment is to attract and retain top talents. The aim of this paper is to emphasize the importance of “flair factors” those greatly valued personal qualities that enable an organization to accomplish its mission. The paper links insights about flair factors, as critical elements of organizational success, with the development of a compensation philosophy that can help organizations to recruit, attract, and retain top talented employees. Moreover, nine often-repeated errors made in developing and administering an effective compensation system are outlined. Finally, the paper benefits to both scholars and practitioners by suggesting how to solve the problem of identifying and hiring the right people for successful performance in organizations.
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Scientific article
This paper examines the importance of formal, non-formal and informal education within the corporate system, with a special focus on their integration to generate applicable knowledge that enables competitiveness and social responsibility of organizations. The paper is grounded in the assumption that modern society is characterized by a paradox of the availability of knowledge with a simultaneous deficit of its practical application. Based on theoretical and conceptual analyses, as well as the proposed empirical model, the need to develop an integrated model of corporate education that connects individual competencies with organizational and social goals is indicated.
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Scientific article
Topics related to the media, journalism, the transformation of journalism, the transition from traditional to new media, inevitably lead us to the analysis of the current media situation. The issue of tabloids and tabloidization is essential for understanding the reconstruction of new media. It is a fact that tabloids do not respect the principles of journalistic code and ethics, that tabloid content is in opposition to quality, investigative, analytical journalism, but they still lead us to think about the causes of such phenomena. In this paper, we will deal with the topic of journalism, journalistic code, ethical dilemmas, tabloids and tabloidization.
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Key characteristics of communications barriers in organizational contex
Scientific article
This paper explores the primary communication barriers within organizational settings and the implications they have on effective interpersonal and intergroup communication. Through a theoretical overview and empirical research conducted in Zrenjanin, Serbia, this study identifies specific types of barriers—ambiguity, noise, emotional factors, distrust, data filtering, language and jargon, and cultural elements—and analyzes their frequency and perception among employees. Results highlight the relatively low presence of cultural and trust-based barriers, while ambiguity and noise are more prevalent. Recommendations for overcoming these obstacles include improving feedback systems and adapting organizational communication strategies.
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Scientific article
Leadership effectiveness and employee outcomes are increasingly understood as relational and context-dependent phenomena. Leader–Member Exchange (LMX) theory highlights the importance of dyadic leader–follower relationships, while organisational culture shapes the norms, values, and practices within which these relationships unfold. This study examines the interplay between LMX, organisational culture, communication practices, and talent management, with a particular focus on how these dynamics shape employee engagement, performance, well-being, and retention. Adopting a qualitative, constructivist literature study, the research synthesises empirical studies, meta-analyses, and conceptual frameworks spanning leadership, organisational behaviour, and talent management, and a thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring relational patterns, contextual moderators, and mechanisms linking LMX quality to employee outcomes. The review demonstrates that high-quality LMX relationships, characterised by trust, reciprocity, and open communication, are strongly associated with positive employee outcomes, particularly when embedded in inclusive and adaptive organisational cultures, whereas low-quality exchanges within misaligned or hierarchical cultures contribute to disengagement, relative deprivation, and turnover intentions. Communication practices and talent management systems emerge as critical mediating mechanisms, with digital and remote work contexts amplifying both relational opportunities and risks. The findings underscore the need for leadership approaches that integrate relational awareness with cultural alignment and systemic talent practices, advancing a more contextualised understanding of LMX and highlighting inclusive leadership, relational mindfulness, and culturally responsive communication as essential for organisational sustainability and workforce well-being.
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Scientific article
The contemporary business environment is characterized by accelerated digital transformation, the development of platform economies and the emergence of new business models based on technology, network interactions and flexible forms of organization. Under such conditions, the role of leadership is also changing, as leadership is increasingly viewed as an important factor in organizational adaptation, innovation and the development of employees’ digital competences. The aim of this paper is to analyze, on the basis of a review of relevant literature, leadership, with a particular focus on transformational leadership, as a micro-innovation that contributes to the development and implementation of new business models in the context of platformization and Entrepreneurship 5.0. The methodological approach is based on a narrative literature review and a conceptual synthesis of studies in the fields of leadership, organizational culture, innovation, digital competences and the digital economy. The findings of the literature review indicate that transformational leadership may play a significant role in encouraging innovative behavior, developing an organizational culture that supports change, strengthening employee engagement and connecting digital competences with the innovative capabilities of an organization. The paper proposes a conceptual framework in which leadership is viewed as a micro-innovation and an integrative mechanism between digital competences, organizational culture, employee engagement and the development of new business models. It is concluded that the development of leadership competences in the digital environment represents an important prerequisite for the adaptability, sustainability and competitiveness of contemporary organizations.
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Logistical aspects of the application of artificial intelligence in the printing industry
Scientific article
This paper explores the potential application of artificial intelligence (AI) and expert systems (ES) in improving logistics processes within the printing industry, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The study is based on a case analysis of the printing company SITOPRINT from Žitište, which represents a typical SME operating with a combination of traditional and modern printing technologies, yet facing evident logistical constraints. The primary objective of the research is to identify key logistical limitations, assess the level of digital maturity, and determine the extent to which AI-based solutions can enhance operational stability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The methodological framework includes the analysis of internal business documentation, direct observation of workflow, interviews with employees, and evaluation of existing procedures related to material management, production planning, and distribution. Additionally, a comparative review of modern logistics solutions in international practice was conducted to contextualize global trends in industrial digitalization and assess their applicability to the Serbian printing sector. Findings indicate that SITOPRINT’s logistics processes rely heavily on manual work, fragmented communication, and experience-based decision-making, resulting in inventory fluctuations, uneven machine utilization, and reduced predictability. The research shows that AI can significantly improve these processes through predictive inventory management, automated production scheduling, real-time order tracking, and algorithm-based route optimization. The discussion emphasizes that the successful implementation of AI and ES requires gradual integration, employee training, and the development of a data-driven organizational culture. The conclusion highlights that AI-supported logistics represents a sustainable and scalable development path for SMEs in the printing industry, and that the SITOPRINT case may serve as a practical model for broader industry modernization.
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Mobbing of healthcare workers on the territory of Arandjelovac
Scientific article
Workplace mobbing represents a serious issue in modern organizations, with significant consequences for employee health and workplace efficiency. It is particularly pronounced in the healthcare sector, where various forms of mobbing are observed, such as horizontal, vertical, professional, and emotional mobbing. The primary aim of this research is to examine the prevalence of mobbing among healthcare workers in Aranđelovac, with a specific focus on nurses and technicians, as well as to identify the causes and consequences of mobbing in this context. The research indicates a high prevalence of mobbing in healthcare institutions in Aranđelovac, particularly among nurses and technicians. Newly hired workers are at a higher risk of mobbing compared to those with greater work experience. Differences between women and men were not statistically significant. Specific interventions and preventive measures need to be developed and implemented to improve the work environment and employees' health in the healthcare sector. The study highlights the importance of a systematic approach to addressing the issue of mobbing while focusing on local specificities within the context of global trends.
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Online-ignited crises and post-crisis image restoration: example of Flight 3411 incident
Scientific article
The aim of this paper is to examine the flow and evolution of the communication crises in a digital space, how different crisis response approaches contributed to the escalation and suppression of the crisis, and how communicating of post-crisis organizational and policy changes contributed to the image restoration. The crisis evolution and flow have been investigated through the document analysis, based on the publicly available sources related to the exemplary critical situation – Flight 3411 incident. The textual analysis, which is the prevalent and primary method of analysis in image repair and image restoration studies, has been used to analyze both crisis and post-crisis situation. Reactive approach to communication contribute to the quick evolution of the crisis. Denial responses in the early crisis stage contribute to spreading out the crisis. Changing communication approach from reactive to proactive and from denial to rebuilding (Coombs, 2007) may contribute to the crisis suppression and risk mitigation. Consistent communicating of the policy changes in the aftermath of the crisis may contribute to rebuilding the organizational image. This paper is among the rare contributions analyzing mechanisms of the crisis evolution, including transformation of a paracrisis into crisis. Moreover, it depicts the role of post-crisis communications in the organizational image restoration in the digital era. The paper provides an overview how changes of the communications approach affect the flow of the crisis and offers conclusions useful both for theoretical and practical considerations of the paracrises, crisis communications and post-crisis communications.
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Perceived Effectiveness and Alignment of Training in Canadian Educational Institutions
Scientific article
This research examines how staff members at educational institutions in Canada perceive the effectiveness of training, whether the types of training they deem necessary align with those they participate in, and whether their perspectives change based on years of experience, educational attainment, and institution type. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted involving 50 employees. The effectiveness was evaluated using a five-point scale, with two items in multiple-choice format (types of training deemed necessary and attended). Within-subject comparisons, one-way analysis of variance for comparing multiple groups, and analysis of differences between two independent groups assuming unequal variances were utilized. The findings indicate a significant gap: participants identified more “necessary” training categories than they attended; no differences were observed based on experience; differences in education favour those with higher education levels (with higher and more consistent ratings); private institutions exhibit a more positive distribution of grades compared to public ones, although the difference in mean scores is not statistically significant in this sample. It is concluded that aligning training offerings with expressed needs and acknowledging the trainees' profiles is more crucial than the training experience itself. The study suggested conducting an annual needs assessment that aligns with strategic goals, designing training focused on practical application (through scenarios, practice, mentoring, and implementation strategies), engaging managers before and after training, customizing based on educational segments, and systematically evaluating outcomes with follow-up post-training. Furthermore, responses were anonymous, items were mandatory, and the scale ranged from 1 to 5; caution is advised when interpreting results from the small group with doctoral degrees.
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Scientific article
Public financing plays a pivotal role in expanding access to and enhancing the quality of higher education systems. In India, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 sets a transformative target of achieving a 50 percent Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2035, making the trajectory and adequacy of public expenditure a central policy concern. This study examines trends in public expenditure on higher education by analyzing the Ministry of Education’s Budget Estimates (BE) and Actual Expenditure (AE) from 2010-11 to 2024-25, with the objective of assessing long-term growth patterns and their alignment with national policy priorities. Analysis uses descriptive statistics and time-series linear regression to study past expenditure trends and predict spending on higher education up to 2034–35. The results show a steady increase in public funding for higher education in India. Budget Estimates increased from Rs.16,690 crore in 2010–11 to Rs.47,620 crore in 2024–25, while Actual Expenditure increased from Rs.15,472 crore to Rs.46,482 crore during the same period. Regression analysis shows significant yearly growth in both Budget Estimates and Actual Expenditure, indicating strong government support for higher education. Based on past trends, public expenditure may reach nearly Rs.68,000 crore by 2034–35. These findings highlight the need for continuous financial support to improve enrolment, infrastructure, and quality in line with NEP 2020. The gap between planned and actual spending also shows the need for better budget implementation and expenditure management. The findings provide evidence-based insights for policymakers and stakeholders, emphasizing that long-term investment, coupled with efficient fiscal management, is essential for achieving inclusive and sustainable expansion of India’s higher education system.
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Recruitment and selection process of personnel in the it sector in the territory of Vojvodina
Scientific article
The recruitment and selection process in HR management, involving various methods, is crucial for attracting top talents. Understanding the key steps in the selection process can assist human resource managers in navigating the entire employment lifecycle and achieving optimal results. This paper focuses on the importance of recruiting and selecting candidates, as companies that take their hiring process seriously have a higher chance of finding and retaining top talents, helping them stay ahead of the competition and achieve their goals. The study analyzes the recruitment and selection process of candidates in the IT sector, specifically in the Vojvodina region. The research involved 180 participants from various IT companies in Vojvodina, revealing differences in the recruitment and selection processes for IT positions compared to other roles.
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Research on employee motivation in companies on the territory of Belgrade
Scientific article
A necessary condition for motivating people well is knowing people and the human psyche, and for this very reason, managers must spend much time with employees to discover the best incentive methods for each employee’s work. When it comes to motivation, it is based on the claim that if an employee is motivated to work and satisfied with his work environment, the customer will also be satisfied, and the company will operate successfully. Motivation is a subject area that has intrigued humanity since the earliest beginnings of the human species. Today, fortunately, we live in much better conditions, and at the same time, we face numerous new challenges in motivating our employees in their companies. Motivation is an internal driving force that drives us to achieve our goals and satisfy our needs. In order to operate successfully, all companies must find their optimal combination of material and non-material incentives for employees, which will depend on many factors: the sector in which they work, the competition in the market, the nature of work, and the structure of employees. The goal of every manager in a company should not be to motivate his people to perform averagely but to motivate his employees to perform above average.
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Role of innovation in entrepreneurship development
Scientific article
The strength of researchers and entrepreneurs is needed in order to overcome technological problems and to develop products with a great competitive advantage. This would achieve international market success. Success is achieved by the support of scientists and research institutions due to the nature of people and their efforts, not because of the innovation policy itself. The assumption is that companies should use external and internal ideas, as internal and external channels, to improve innovation and market potential. Companies promote their own innovative activities by establishing a new business model. Companies cooperate with other participants on the market, exchange ideas and satisfy the needs of consumers in a better way. Companies have to work a lot on improving internal structures of knowledge and technology, i.e., on improving their innovative capacity. By establishing an appropriate knowledge base and considering innovative possibilities, they can intensively deal with connecting to external sources of knowledge and technologies. By combining internal and external sources, they create new value and thus improve their own innovation culture.
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Scientific article
This paper investigates the nature, frequency, sources, and resolution strategies of organizational conflicts in Serbia's private and public sectors. Using a structured questionnaire and a sample of 128 respondents, the study applies descriptive statistics to analyze perceptions about conflict types, causes, and resolution mechanisms. Findings indicate a predominance of horizontal conflicts and traditional perceptions of conflict as negative phenomena. Most respondents recognize the significance of joint problem-solving and overarching goals as effective resolution strategies. Personal distrust and task interdependence are identified as major sources of conflict. The study recommends institutionalized conflict management training and fostering constructive organizational climates.
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Scientific article
This paper analyses the investment environment and market dynamics of the real estate sector in the Republic of Serbia, focusing on Belgrade as the main urban and economic center. Based on domestic and international literature, it highlights the limitations of traditional financial models under increased uncertainty and complex interdependencies. PESTEL and SWOT frameworks are applied to holistically assess political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors. The aim of the study is to examine past and current trends and predict future developments, supporting competitive strategy selection at the micro level. The empirical analysis relies on official data from the Republic Geodetic Authority and the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia (2014–2024), examining transaction volumes and structure, land distribution, overall market value, and housing price trends in Belgrade. Results show long-term growth, dominance of the residential segment, and the influence of institutional and infrastructure projects on the market.
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Scientific article
This paper explores the potential for the development of learning organizations in the context of the Republic of Serbia, with special emphasis on the sectors of education, public administration and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The aim of the research is to analyze the extent to which the principles of organizational learning are present in the strategic documents of Serbia, and what are the institutional, cultural and economic factors that facilitate or hinder their implementation. Methodologically, the paper relies on a qualitative analysis of the content of relevant national strategies, academic literature and international recommendations in the field of knowledge management. The results show that the education sector has the most developed mechanisms for the adoption of learning principles, while the public administration faces rigid structures that slow down the transformation. The SME sector shows flexibility, but suffers from limited resources and a lack of institutional support. The paper concludes that the development of learning organizations is a key prerequisite for sustainable institutional development and competitiveness of Serbia in the digital era. Recommendations for shaping public policies and strengthening strategic capacities through the systematic introduction of the principles of organizational learning in all sectors are proposed.
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The Influence of Work Motivation on Employees’ Relationship with the Leader
Scientific article
Over the past century, management has progressed from Taylor’s scientific management to modern approaches emphasizing human motivation. This study examines how work motivation influences the employee–leader relationship in Serbian organizations. We surveyed 100 employees (public and private sector) on the importance and fulfillment of various job motivators and the quality of leader–member exchange (LMX). Results show that most employees rate both basic (e.g., salary, security) and higher-level (e.g., growth) needs as very important, yet far fewer report these needs as satisfied. For example, about 75% of respondents deemed pay and security crucial, but under one-third felt adequately compensated or secure. Similarly, ~73% valued personal development, but only ~20% had such opportunities. Employees with better-fulfilled needs also reported higher-quality leader–member relationships. Average LMX quality was moderate, with only a minority experiencing high-trust exchanges. The discussion relates these findings to Herzberg’s two-factor theory, self-determination theory, and LMX theory, highlighting the importance of both extrinsic and intrinsic motivators. The obtained results indicate that leaders and managers need to adapt their leadership style more closely to employees’ motivational needs in order to improve relationship quality and increase organizational effectiveness.
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The Use of Web Tools in Education: A Case Study in a Secondary School in Montenegro
Scientific article
This review examines the role of web-based tools in contemporary education by integrating recent research (2020–2025) and illustrating practice through a survey of 120 teachers at a secondary school in Montenegro. After outlining the evolution of the web (from Web 1.0 to Web 3.0) and key categories of educational tools (learning management systems, collaboration platforms, video-conferencing, game-based quiz systems, social media), we synthesize findings from recent systematic reviews and empirical studies. These show that digital tools generally have positive effects on student engagement, motivation, conceptual understanding, and academic performance, provided they are integrated purposefully and supported by infrastructure and teacher training. In our school-level survey, teachers reported intensive use of Microsoft Teams, PowerPoint, YouTube, and messaging apps (Viber/WhatsApp), alongside growing interest in interactive platforms such as Kahoot. They expressed mainly positive attitudes toward web tools, but also noted challenges related to technical issues, workload, and unequal student access. Taken together, the literature and case findings indicate that web tools are now integral to teaching, yet their success depends on pedagogically informed design, teacher digital competence, institutional support, and attention to equity and privacy. The paper concludes with implications for practice and proposes directions for future research on the pedagogical and organizational conditions that sustain and make technology integration effective.
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