Emerging technologies

This study aims to explore the adoption and implementation of emerging technologies in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). By understanding the motivations, challenges, benefits, and future plans of SME founders, this research provides insights into how these businesses leverage technology to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. The study employed a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 25 founders of SMEs across various industries. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interview data were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, following a thematic approach to identify key themes and insights related to technology adoption and implementation in SMEs. The study identified several motivations for technology adoption, including competitive advantage, cost efficiency, customer demand, innovation drive, and growth opportunities. Key challenges faced by SMEs included financial constraints, technical difficulties, resistance to change, regulatory and compliance issues, knowledge gaps, vendor dependence, and time constraints. The benefits realized from technology adoption encompassed improved operational efficiency, enhanced customer satisfaction, revenue growth, better data analytics, increased employee productivity, and greater market adaptability. Future plans of SMEs included continued investment in technology, scaling up implementation, focusing on employee training and development, forming strategic partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and improving customer engagement. The adoption and implementation of emerging technologies present significant opportunities for SMEs to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. However, SMEs must navigate various challenges to realize these benefits. By adopting a strategic approach and leveraging external partnerships, SMEs can successfully implement new technologies and drive sustainable growth. This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of SME founders, informing both practice and policy in the context of technological advancement in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Background : As digital transformation accelerates globally, effective IT governance has become critical for organizational success. With global spending on IT governance and risk management projected to reach $16 billion by 2025, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing are introducing new governance complexities that demand adaptive strategies. Objective : The article explores the key factors and anticipated trends in IT governance that are expected to shape organizational management by 2025. The aim is to understand how evolving technological landscapes influence governance models and risk management practices. Method : A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving a systematic review of 100 scholarly and industry articles focused on recent trends and future directions in IT governance. The analysis highlights issues related to risk management, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, and technology integration. Results : The review revealed that 83% of organizations reported significant governance challenges due to technological disruption, while 68% indicated a transition toward decentralized governance models, particularly within blockchain-based systems. Additionally, AI-powered decision-making tools are projected to be adopted by over 70% of large enterprises for IT governance functions by 2025. Conclusion : The findings underscore the growing need for flexible and adaptive IT governance frameworks that align with both agile and traditional business objectives. By anticipating and addressing future risks and compliance demands, organizations can enhance their current governance strategies to remain resilient and competitive in the digital era.

The rapidly growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to fundamentally transform the realm of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction. This research studied this emerging trend through a qualitative research synthesis of 24 peer-reviewed articles published between 2021 and 2024. It examined them to highlight the diverse applications, challenges, and teaching practices associated with AI in EFL education. Methodological rigor was ensured through established inclusion and exclusion criteria for selecting the articles. The qualitative synthesis and thematic analysis revealed five prominent themes that illuminate the current landscape of AI in EFL instruction: 1) conceptualizations of AI within EFL settings; 2) factors influencing its adoption; 3) challenges faced when integrating AI into EFL settings; 4) limitations of AI-based tools and methods; and 5) potential avenues for future investigation. Although integrating AI into EFL pedagogy is still in its early stages and presents various challenges, the findings provide valuable insights and practical recommendations for effectively using AI in EFL education, enhancing teaching methods, and improving student learning outcomes. Educators can make informed decisions regarding its implementation while navigating the evolving EFL instruction landscape by cultivating an understanding of AI's potential benefits and inherent limitations.