Identify an academic journal in one or two of the following areas

Assignment Brief

Module: Business Management Project

TASKS

Identify an academic journal in one or two of the following areas: Management (General) Marketing Strategic Management Human Resource Accounting Hospitality and Tourism Entrepreneurship Or any other subject area in management

Select three articles from the journal or the two journals you have identified in the previous task:

1. The first article should be using a quantitative approach to research
2. The second article should be using a qualitative approach to research
3. The third article should be a review of literature article.

Write a summary of 750 words for each article. This will make a total of 2250 words. The summary of each article should include the following:

• The aim, objective, question or the main thesis of each article.

Sample Answer

Article 1 – Quantitative Study

Aim and Objectives

The article explores how different leadership styles (transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire) influence employee motivation in the service industry, particularly in banking. The aim is to examine the strength and direction of these relationships using a quantitative method.

Research Question

Does leadership style significantly affect employee motivation levels in service sector organisations?

Methodology

The researchers used a quantitative approach. They collected data through structured questionnaires distributed to 300 employees in commercial banks. The survey used a 5-point Likert scale. The data was analysed using SPSS software with regression analysis and correlation testing.

Key Findings

• Transformational leadership had the strongest positive impact on motivation.

• Transactional leadership showed a moderate effect.

• Laissez-faire leadership had a negative correlation with motivation.

Conclusion

The study concluded that transformational leadership is most effective in motivating employees in service organisations. It recommends training leaders to adopt more inspiring and participative styles.

Article 2 – Qualitative Study

Aim and Objectives

This article investigates how employees perceive organisational culture when going through a major change such as mergers or restructuring. The goal is to explore the emotional and behavioural responses of staff using a qualitative method.

Research Question

How do employees interpret and experience organisational culture during a time of change?

Methodology

The study uses a qualitative approach, with semi-structured interviews conducted with 20 employees from a recently merged healthcare organisation. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes in responses.

Key Findings

• Employees expressed confusion and anxiety due to unclear communication and shifting expectations.

• Many felt a loss of identity, especially when their previous organisation’s values were overridden.

• Trust in leadership became a key theme, lack of transparency caused resistance.

Conclusion

The study shows that cultural alignment and open communication are crucial in managing change. Leaders should involve staff early in the change process and be clear about cultural expectations.

Article 3 – Literature Review

Aim and Objectives

The article provides a review of existing literature on how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt and implement strategic management practices. The aim is to summarise key themes, gaps, and future directions.

Main Thesis

The paper argues that while SMEs recognise the importance of strategy, they often lack formal planning due to limited resources and knowledge.

Methodology

This is a literature review article. The authors reviewed over 50 peer-reviewed academic sources from the past 15 years. They used a systematic review method, categorising studies into themes such as strategic planning, innovation, and barriers.

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