The integration of digitalization and servitization has become a significant trend in transforming the manufacturing industry due to digital intelligence technology. This paper examines the impact of the integration of digitalization and servitization on the performance of manufacturing companies and how small-scale enterprises can promote digital transformation leading to servitization. The study involved surveying 331 manufacturing companies in China using a seven-point Likert scale questionnaire. Measurement scales were validated using confirmatory factor analysis and discriminant validity tests. Mediation analysis assessed digitalization’s impact on servitization and firm performance. The study’s findings emphasize the significant impact of digitalization and servitization on enterprises’ performance. Digitalization plays a crucial role in mediating this relationship. The study highlights three critical dimensions of digital variables, including digital technology, digital labor, and digital relationship resources, essential in enabling effective servitization. Manufacturing enterprises generally prefer aligning their technology investments and organizational changes within the digitalization framework to implement servitization successfully. The study suggests two integration strategies, namely conservative and aggressive. The finding emphasizes that the convergence of digitalization and servitization leads to a new manufacturing production mode called digital servitization.

This research paper aims to explore the issue of university dropouts in Greece, which has become a growing concern in recent years due to its impact on individuals, educational institutions, and society as a whole. One of the main contributing factors to students discontinuing their higher education in Greece is the choice of the wrong faculty. Financial challenges, unrelated to tuition fees, also significantly affect students’ ability to pursue their studies. Family background plays a crucial role, with students from families with higher educational attainment exhibiting greater persistence. The study found that gender, age, and academic performance can influence students’ perceptions of dropout factors, which can change as they progress through their educational journey. To address these challenges, the research proposes a multifaceted approach, including early intervention programs, expanded financial support, improved mental health and counseling services, flexible learning options, and strong academic advising.

This article explores the application of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework in the context of integrating self-driving tractors into agricultural practices. With a focus on understanding the factors influencing the acceptance and adoption of this transformative technology, we delve into the implications for farmers, industry stakeholders, and the future of sustainable agriculture and rural tourism.

Objective/Aim: In the context of a constantly changing legislative environment and the necessity for professionals to develop their skills, the research focuses on identifying effective methods and tools that facilitate efficient learning and professional development in the field of labour law. This study aimed to propose a pedagogical technology for the preparation and training of specialists in the field of labour law and to assess the effectiveness of the training based on the specified technology. Method: The study involved 124 participants, with 63 in the experimental group and 61 in the control group. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel. The student’s t-test indicated significant improvements in the experimental group’s training effectiveness, confirming the proposed pedagogical technology’s efficacy. Results: Consequently, implementing training and education technology for specialists in the labour law field was proposed to enhance the indicators. The criteria for the preparation of specialists in the field of labour law were delineated, including knowledge of labour legislation, consulting and support skills, analytical skills, communication skills, and continuous learning. According to the criteria above, levels of preparation for specialists in the field of labour law were established, namely high, medium, and essential. The proposed training and education technology for specialists in the field of labour encompasses the following tools: The utilisation of online platforms and educational resources, virtual classes and simulations, the incorporation of multimedia materials, the integration of adaptive learning technologies, the implementation of project- and problem-oriented teaching methodologies, the incorporation of interactive methodologies, the incorporation of cloud technologies and mobile applications, and the provision of assessment and feedback. Conclusion: The proposed pedagogical technology effectively enhances the training and education of labour law specialists. The experimental group’s significant improvement in learning outcomes confirms the technology’s efficacy. Implication: The findings of this research hold significant social implications. Improved training and education of labour law specialists leads to a more competent and effective legal workforce. This, in turn, ensures better protection of workers’ rights and fairer employer-employee relations, contributing to overall social stability.

The paper at hand analyses the principal-agent relationship, where comparative perspective between principals’ (municipalities) and agents’ (public utility providers) in the field of water and wastewater management is scrutinized. The goal of the paper is twofold: firstly, to present empirical results validating principal-agent relationships that emerged due to the reorganization process of public enterprises; secondly, to highlight the similarities and differences between the perspectives of principals and agents regarding motives, advantages and disadvantages, and price-setting in relation to the reorganization process. The empirical research is based on the primary data collected through two self-prepared and structured online questionnaires—one for municipalities, and the other for public utility providers. The results reveal similarities between public enterprises and municipalities in motivating factors for full municipal ownership. However, differences are seen among the advantages of the reorganization process. Price-setting by public utilities is recognized as a motivating mechanism for agents.

This study examines the relationship between Russian FDI carried out by large MNCs and investment development path (IDP). Although statistical analysis does not establish a significant relationship between outward FDI and GDP, the behavior of Russian outward FDI contradicts traditional models. Two primary factors contribute to this paradox. First, the complex business environment in Russia, characterized by a combination of both improvements and contradictions, has a significant impact on outward FDI behavior. Secondly, the duality of the Russian economy and society plays a decisive role. This segment resembles a high-income country with ample resources, while most face lower income levels, raising concerns about wealth distribution. Historical factors, including Russia’s transition from a state-controlled to a market-oriented economy, contribute to the internationalization of Russian MNCs. Both state-owned enterprises and privatized firms are influenced by the state, although to varying degrees. Government involvement in international business strategies increases the knowledge and experience of Russian MNCs, but also raises concerns about political influence.