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A Comparative Analysis of Quality of Health Care between Public and Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2020-08-01) Miah, Muhammad Shahin; Saif, Abu Naser Mohammad; Afrin, Sultana Tahura
Purpose: The main objective of the study is to investigate the differences in service quality between public and private sector healthcare systems in Bangladesh, more specifically in Tangail District. This study also tries to identify the efficiency and the rate of service utilization in both public and private sector healthcare systems. Methodology: The comparison between public and private health care system is done based on certain criteria including availability of physicians, assurance and competence of physicians, empathy of doctors and nurses to patients, cost, public perception on cost, drug availability, emergency patient management and waiting time. We collected required data by interviewing 376 patients from different rural public and private hospitals. Findings: The major findings of the analysis show that public hospitals are providing relatively better services than private hospitals in terms of availability of physicians, cost, perception, emergency patient management, and patients’ waiting time. On the other hand, private hospitals are performing better compared to public hospitals in terms of assurance and competence of physicians, empathy of doctors and nurses, and drug availability. However, this study documents that both sectors are suffering to meet benchmark standards in terms of quality, which requires urgent improvements. Limitations: This study is conducted based on only survey and twosample mean test. Further test can be conducted via empirical analysis using secondary databases. Moreover, comparison of survey data with empirical data could be done to see the reliability. Practical Implications: This study will be useful for authority and administration, especially Ministry of Health, and Family Welfare (MOHFW) to monitor the quality, and to ensure better services to patients in developing country like Bangladesh. In addition, this study also helps general people by documenting empirical evidence about current situation of medical services in both sectors. Originality/Value: This research is conducted based on patients’ responses to our questionnaire. We do believe our paper reflects real scenario of health care systems in Bangladesh.
A Conceptual Model for Cloud Computing Adoption: A Case Study on Bangladeshi SMEs Focused on Small Electronic Home Appliance
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Rahman, Dr. Mohammad Masudur; Ahmed, Dr. Mohammad Naveed
Purpose: In the 21st century, cloud computing is an innovative idea that has revolutionized various sectors, IT organizations and many other organizations are shifting to the clouds because these offer many benefits such as infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS) and software as a service (SaaS). Also, cloud computing provides the latest applications for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through the Internet with minimum start-up cost, easy sharing with remote location and pay-per-use services. According to a survey by Euro monitor International, SMEs mainly trade small Electronic Home Appliance (SEHA) goods, which are in general regarded luxury goods in many areas of the world, including Bangladesh, and are increasing at a 14 percent CAGR in Bangladesh from 2009 to 2014. However, SEHA goods need to be followed up from the beginning of its production until after sales, i.e. warranty, customer relation management, spare parts requirement and others. Therefore, cloud computing may be used to have proper monitoring purpose. Methodology: In this study, the TOE and DOI models were adapted and extended. Based on qualitative research, this study developed a conceptual framework after completing qualitative data analysis in the context of Bangladeshi SME focused on SEHA. Findings: The results of this research developed an integrated research model based on online interview and explored some important factors. Practical Implications: This model aids in identifying the influences of cloud computing on SMEs that have yet to embrace cloud services but are considering it. It is widely accepted that SMEs should use cloud services not just to save money on administration, but also to improve efficiency and productivity. Originality: This research has explored the most prominent themes through online interview. The findings of the study offer valuable themes to cloud providers, managers, and government authorities on how to encourage the adoption of cloud computing in SME in developing countries. Limitation: This research developed a conceptual framework; in future this conceptual framework will be validated to generalize the issue.
Adaptation of Telemedicine during the COVID-19: Evaluating Perceived Quality and Acceptance
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2023-09-01) Akter, Dr. Salma; Kabir, Tanveer; Popy, Nurun Naher
Purpose: While telemedicine has grown in popularity during the COVID-19 epidemic, less research in Bangladesh has investigated how it affects patients' acceptability, perception, and purchasing intent. As a result, this study will evaluate patients' perceptions of the quality and acceptability of telemedicine services. This will determine ultimate purchase intention during the pandemic and how it will affect future decision-making in a developing country like Bangladesh. Methodology: The eSERVQUAL scale was utilized in this study, and its impact on the patients' purchase intent was explored. We asked 300-plus people who used telemedicine services at least once during the pandemic to participate in an online survey. During the data collection period of June 1st to July 25th, 2022, we collected 251 responses online. This research proposed five hypotheses, all tested using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Findings: The findings show that telemedicine services' 'e-tangibles,' 'assurance,' and 'empathy' directly impact patients' perceptions and readiness to repurchase the services. Furthermore, according to the study, there is no significant evidence that the 'reliability' and 'responsiveness' of these services significantly influence patients' perceptions in the same way. Originality/Value: This original research applied the five-dimensional eSERVQUAL model and assessed the perceived value of newly adapted telemedicine service quality by utilizing 22 factors. This will definitely add value to the application of contemporary and established statistical techniques to measure the service quality perception among service users. Practical Implications: The findings of this study will motivate Asian healthcare institutions, professionals in this field, and academic programs to establish effective tangibility and provide assurance, and empathy to patients to increase their purchase intent. Limitations: Key study limitations include convenient sampling, 300 questionnaires were distributed but only received 251 responses which are limited in size, and access to the actual patients who used telemedicine.
Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) and its Consequences on Financial Reporting Quality: A Review
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2021-08-01) Adnan, ATM; Khan, Prof. Md. Muinuddin
Purpose: The broad adoption of IFRS around the world, aided by the IAS Regulation in 2002, created a critical foundation for numerous academic studies that examined various viewpoints on voluntary or obligatory IFRS adoption. As a result, this study aims to provide a comprehensive image of the advantages and disadvantages of IFRS implementation, as well as the implications for financial reporting quality. We highlight two financial reporting performance indices, Earning Management (EM) and Value Relevance (VR), to determine the possible effect of IFRS implementation on the quality of financial reporting activities. Methodology: This paper examines the literature on the implications of mandatory or voluntary implementation of IFRS and the impact on accounting reporting quality that is expected to result from the transition. This paper takes a retrospective view, focusing on accounting research published in leading accounting journals and selective working papers, intending to understand the discussion on IFRS adoption and accounting quality in literature. Findings: Review findings suggest that IFRS adoption is expected to deliver benefits in improving the consistency of financial statements, including value relevance and earnings control. According to published literature, IFRS adoption would be more effective if it is backed by good legal protections, qualified experts, as well as appropriate supervision and compliance. Moreover, empirical evidence has shown that the advantages of IFRS are not universally recognized across countries. Overall, this study suggests that accounting consistency cannot be measured solely in terms of IFRS implementation, whether optional or obligatory. Limitations: This study is solely based on the qualitative review of the prominently published literature and also limits its focus on the two primary financial reporting quality metrics which could be extended. Moreover, macro-level determinants of IFRS's impact on reporting quality could be analyzed. Practical Implications: This study adds to the current literature by including a much-needed summary overview of the significance of IFRS adoption in accounting quality metrics in a global context, which will help researchers explore the IFRS framework further. Originality: This paper presented the measures used by studies to determine accounting reporting quality, summarizes the factors that contribute to accounting quality, and contributes to improving the quality assessment of financial reporting information.
An Analysis of Gender-Based Violence in Dhaka City
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Zahan, Dr. Nasrin
Purpose: This study aims to provide a comprehensive scenario of gender-based violence in Dhaka city of Bangladesh. Some sorts of violence are so sophisticated that it is considered a familial or personal issue. So, digging out the insights of the fact is too tough but it is required to clearly understand what the driving forces of the problem are. In terms to address the problem, this study focuses on the facts beyond our eyes. Methodology: On the basis of the nature of the problem, this study has followed the snowball non-probability sampling method of a total of eighty respondents in Dhaka city. Primary data were collected through a structured, semi-structured questionnaire and in-depth interview. Moreover, secondary sources of national and international levels have been used in this study. Findings: This study found that attitudes or belief patterns encourage individuals to show such kind of negative behavior. More importantly, a family member or nearest one of the perpetrators intensely influences in support of such a heinous attitude. Besides these, social and cultural norms and factors create circumstances that induce an individual to such violent behavior. Implication: The impact of socio-economic conditions amid the covid-19 period as well as the humanitarian crisis might accelerate the existing situation of violence which has introduced a new format of violence. The study emphasizes the intensive exploratory study and will provide an insight into different types of gender-based violence as well as the detrimental effects of such heinous behavior patterns. So, it will provide a better understanding and intensity of the problem. Originality: Although innumerable studies of gender-based violence have been published, underlying causes are not properly focused on. Therefore, it would obviously help for further study as well as policymaking. Limitation: In the context of a patriarchal society like Bangladesh, women are compelled to be submissive and silent in facing violence due to prevalent social and cultural norms and conditions. So, it is too difficult and time-consuming to reveal the underlying causes of gender-based violence.
An Application of Taguchi Loss Function in Apparel Industry: A Case Study
(BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT), 2013-12) Kaes, Md. Imrul; Chowdhury, Nusrat Tarin
Ready Made Garments (RMG) sector is the single most important and biggest manufacturing industry in Bangladesh which is earning nearly about eighty percent of the country's total foreign currency. Having more than six hundred garments factories, almost all the sewing machines and their spare parts are imported from foreign countries. At the time of manufacturing these spare parts, produces set some tolerance with the nominal value which is quite acceptable to the buyers. But Genichi Taguchi believes that for parameter design any deviation from nominal value causes loss to the society including producer and buyer even though parameters are well within specification limits designed by the producer or given by the buyer. This paper deals with a case study which shows the monetary loss from a sewing machine part though the producer is supplying the part within specification limit by applying Taguchi Loss function.
An Assessment of Borrower Satisfaction of Micro Finance Services in Grameen Bank of Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2021-08-01) Saki, Fatima; Islam, Md. Nahidul; Islam, Md. Nazrul
Purpose: This study is aimed to determine the nature and dimensions of microfinance service and to have an understanding on borrower satisfaction level using various determinants of Grameen bank in Bangladesh. Methodology: This analysis of the study is based on primary data collected from 312 respondents who are the borrowers of Grameen bank. Five point likert scale questionnaire is used for quantification and chi-square test is used for the analysis. Findings: The results indicate that economic conditions of the borrowers, their income, and loan facilities of the bank, interest rates on the funds, insurance policy of the bank, transparent transactions, and bankers’ behavior with the borrowers have significant influence on borrower satisfaction. The study has also drawn some inferences such as reducing the interest rate, arranging training programs for their officials, giving individual borrower attention, improving customer service department etc. to foster better banking services for superior borrower satisfaction. Limitations: The research study has focused on six districts in Bangladesh. This could be extended to more areas. Time period for the study could also be extended. Practical Implications: The outcomes of the study would be helpful in formulating customer services policies and improving the quality of services to ensure much satisfaction to the borrowers for future growth. Originality: This study mainly focuses on the core customers in microfinance sector and as the prevailing level of satisfaction is very much important to sustain the market, this study has been done with direct intersection with the borrowers.
An Empirical Investigation of the Relationship between Organizational Climate and Employee Job Performance in Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2023-09-01) Das, Mita; Hossain, Md. Abir
Purpose: The paper investigates the effects of organizational climate (structure, perceived organizational support, reward, and warmth) on employee job performance. This paper provides insights into the organizational environment and employee job performance. Methodology: This paper examines the previous research to develop an original theoretical model, which is then experimentally verified in the context of the Barishal division using multiple linear regression techniques. An online survey utilized a self-administered questionnaire to collect 139 responses from private and government service holders. In addition, SPSS was utilized for data analysis. Findings: The findings suggest that organizational climate aspects moderate the association between organizational climate and employee job performance. The cross-sectional nature of this study inhibits the testing of causality between the variables. All the hypotheses have significant associations. The proposed model and hypotheses were tested using data from companies operating in a single division of Bangladesh. Practical Implications: The paper provides practical information to leaders and managers to understand which dimensions of climate should be improved to increase employee job performance. Originality/Value: This study highlighted different organizational environmentrelated issues and their linkage with job performance. All the variables used here are vibrant and are arranged from previous literature. This will aid in determining the actual situation of the organization. Limitations: This analysis only covers some potential influences on job performance. Research models and estimations were tested using data from enterprises operating in a specific location, limiting the results to only the Barishal government and private sector.
An Evaluation of G-33 Proposal of Public Stockholding for Food Security in the Least Developed Countries: A Case Study on Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Islam, Saiful
Purpose: This study evaluates whether food security is a genuine case for public stockholding of rice in Bangladesh and whether the country should make the most of the G-33 proposal as an eligible signatory. Research Methodology: Using a qualitative research approach with descriptive statistics, this study analyses Bangladesh's food security, food self-sufficiency, existing public stockholding policy, and the potential impact of public stockholding of rice on production, market prices, and agricultural trade of Bangladesh. Findings: The findings show that Bangladesh is still positioned at the "serious" hunger level and could not achieve sustainable food self-sufficiency. At various crises, Bangladesh relies on the international market to supplement the required amount of rice, which justifies its rice stockholding for food security. Therefore, this study finds a legitimate ground for Bangladesh to exceed the current de minimis limit set under the AoA and use the provisions of the G-33 proposal only as an interim solution. Practical Implications: This study outlines the legitimate ground for adopting the G-33 proposal of public stockholding for food security in Bangladesh. Originality: This study also extends the theoretical base of the G-33 proposal for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which are currently non-signatory of this proposal but requires more government support for food security in the country. Limitations: More in-depth research is required to quantify Bangladesh's new de minimis limit if the country wishes to adopt the G-33 proposal as an interim solution.
Analyzing Export Potentiality of Light Engineering Sector in Bangladesh: Problems and Prospects
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2023-09-01) Akter, Khadija; Akter, Hazera
Purpose: This study analyses the export potentiality of the light engineering sector in Bangladesh from two perspectives, including global positioning in terms of product-specific comparative advantage and the experience of the industry participants while trading globally. Methodology: This study applied quantitative and qualitative research methods to approach the current research objectives. The quantitative measure of Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) –Balassa’s Index has been applied to explore the positioning of Bangladeshi light engineering export items in the global market. Later, a qualitative interview was conducted to validate the opportunity sought in RCA outcomes and identify relevant problems and prospects of the industry. Findings: The results from quantitative data analysis are notably linked with qualitative data analysis. Because Bangladesh scores low RCA in light engineering export items and, thus, faces significant obstacles in the natural trade environment. The observed challenges lie in infrastructure, technical support, financial access, global market information, and promotion. Practical Implication: This study will support relevant policymakers in addressing the currently identified challenges to explore global opportunities for the light engineering sector. Value/Originality: Limited research on challenges and opportunities for the light engineering sector in Bangladesh presents this research outcome as a value-adding one. Limitation: Since the research reliability depends on the quality of data from industry respondents, the academic time frame for the dissertation and the COVID-threatened pandemic limited the scope of the current study for expanding the qualitative sample for data collection
Analyzing the Competitive Business Position of Dhakai Jamdani and Investigating the Export Decline Reasons of it in the Recent Years
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Biswas, Pallabi; Rahman, Sadia Binte
Purpose: This study plans to identify the competitive business position of Jamdani Saree and Jamdani accessories of Bangladesh and also investigates the specific reasons of export decline of Jamdani and its diversified products in the recent years. Methodology: This qualitative research has used Braun & Clarke (2006) thematic technique along with Michel E. Porter‘s (1979) five forces of competitive position analysis to analyze, cross & develop the themes and identify the research objectives. Findings: Findings of the first objective revealed that Jamdani holding medium competitive advantages over others products among its industry. Another objective, identified some specific causes of export decline such as coordination gap among players, unaware about buyer‘s tastes, complex export procedures, lack of incentives, shortage of skilled weavers, low product diversification, lack of capitals and insufficient promotional activities. Practical Implications: Jamdani export was contributing significantly even in the FY2011- 2012, after that its official export volume has declined at such a rate that no record of export of Jamdani and its diversified products has found in the list of Export Promotion Bureau of Bangladesh. This study will give insights to the policy makers and stakeholders to solve the identified problems of this sectors thus open way for increasing the export of Jamdani products. Originality: In spite of being a GI product in Bangladesh, there were conducted few research on Jamdani and none of them related on the potentiality of Jamdani as business products and also no research investigated the export decline reasons of Jamdani from Bangladesh in the recent years. Limitation: Though this study has tried to include all stakeholders but due to complexities created by Covid-19, some stakeholders were missed.
Assessment of Economic Growth in South Asian Countries Using Maddison’s Dataset: A Panel Data Approach
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2020-08-01) Karim, Sultana Shahreen
Purpose: Despite the plethora of research endeavors to identify the driving forces of economic growth this particular notion is still opaque. The major objective of this study is to identify these driving forces in the context of South Asian countries through a panel data approach using the data set constructed by economic historian Angus Maddison. Methodology: As a baseline empirical growth model, augmented Solow model is followed for selecting major variables in the econometric analyses which include both Random effects and fixed effects models. Findings: The regression analyses show that population growth and human capital index are statistically significant explanatory variables for economic growth. This study identifies investment in human capital as a major determinant along with expected direction of association with economic growth. Limitations: Major limitations of this study are the sample size and assumption of exogeneity of the independent variables. Practical Implications: This research provides further scope for more research to find out which exogenous variables cause the specific growth patterns of countries within South Asian Region as well as the robustness of the variables. Originality: South Asian region has been chosen for its specific growth dynamics that has not been covered by previous research endeavors.
Awareness Level of Fashion Consumers toward Ethical Purchasing Behavior in Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2020-08-01) Karim, Farhana
Purpose: The present study deals with the awareness level of fashion consumers toward ethical purchasing behavior in Bangladesh and also gives emphasis on finding whether fashion consumers of Bangladesh are concerned about environment friendly products or not and whether they are willing to pay more for environmental friendly quality products or not. Methodology: Researcher has used area sampling and simple random sampling. Data has been collected from 218 respondents of Dhaka city using structured questionnaire. Z-test has been used to statistically validate several hypotheses that have drawn for this research. Findings: Findings suggest that most of the fashion consumers are not aware about ethical purchasing behavior. According to hypothesis result most of the fashion consumers are concerned about environment and they are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products. However, few inconsistencies have been noticed in their behavior that reveals attitude behavior gap among them. Limitations: Focus group discussion or depth interview could be conducted along with direct questionnaire survey which could elicit more actual view. However, it can be an avenue for further research initiation to get candid and more elaborate information about the extent of consumers’ awareness level and behavioral issues toward ethical purchasing behavior. Practical Implications: Bangladesh is highly populous country and ethical products are mostly produced here for sending to developed countries. So, if manufacturers of this country take steps to aware fashion consumers of this country along with exporting to developed countries, it will bring a sustainable environment and sustainable economic development here. Besides, it can reduce the risk like the DutchesVenezuela diseases syndrome happening in Bangladesh. Originality/Value: No prior significant and elaborative research work on this research topic has been done in Bangladesh. Researcher’s endeavor to discover fashion consumers’ awareness toward ethical purchasing behavior in Bangladesh as this country is exporting significant quantity of readymade garments to developed countries maintaining their product specifications/ desired ethical products.
Barriers of Readymade Garment Industry in Bangladesh
(BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT), 2013-12) lslam, Md. Tarikul; Afrin, Shaharia; lslam, Mollah Aminul
At presents in global market, both the quality of garments and the working environment cherish the retailers and manufacturers. The Readymade Garment sector exports constitute about 76% of Bangladesh's annual export. Garments sectors also provide employment to 1.80 million females and indirectly 10 to 12 million people. The global clothing trade phase out of quota restrictions and forming of trade blocs has become a reality. RMG industry has been able to show its robust performance and competitive strength. There is $5 billion worth of exports made by Bangladesh globally. Bangladesh's economy will be affected by the issue of quota system. The quota system has particular significance for the export of Bangladesh apparels to the foreign market. Bangladesh is largely struggling for the country's garment industries day by day. The garment industry of Bangladesh has been the key export division and a main source of foreign exchange for the last 25 years. Many workers block roads, attack factories, goes on strike, destroy cars and buildings. Every day telecasts news of fresh strikes in a variety of industries, mainly the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. The shift from a rural economy to an urban, industrial economy is integral to the process of economic development by proper using of readymade garments. This article presents a detailed narration of the evolution of the RMG sector from its humble origins to the present day.
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Can Green Management Practices Ensure Environmental Sustainability? A Firm-Level Study on Readymade Garments Sector of Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2021-08-01) Hossen, Dr. Md. Miraj; Islam, Rashedul; Tumpa, Anindita Saha
Purpose: The present study is an initiative to establish a relationship between green management practices and environmental sustainability in the ready-made garments (RMG) industries of Bangladesh. Methodology: The data were collected over 404 respondents covering 20 industries using a well-structured questionnaire. To analyze the data and test the formulated hypotheses statistical software SPSS was used. The study was based on a conceptual framework where green management practices, employees' sustainable behavior, and environmental sustainability were considered as independent, mediating, and dependent variables accordingly. Findings: The study findings reveal that there is a significant positive impact of developing green abilities (DGA), and providing green opportunities (PGO) on employees' intention to green and sustainable behavior. In addition, the employees' green behavior towards sustainability (EBTS) has a significant effect on environmental sustainability (ES). However, motivating green employees (MGE), and maintain green behavior (MGB) has no significant impact on employees' sustainable behavior. Limitations: The study is based on cross-sectional data collected from the primary source and covering 404 samples. It would be better if the researchers can cover vast areas with more samples and secondary data also. Practical Implication: The study is considered as a wake-up call for the related parties, decision-makers (managers and owners), government regulatory bodies, of garments manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The findings of the study can play a significant role in taking decisions regarding any more investment decisions in green management practices in different sectors. Originality: The study is an original one and it has considered some specific areas of green management practices which make it different from other previous studies.
Comparative Study among Classical, Keynesian, Neo-Classical and Ricardian Equivalence Hypothesis (REH) Doctrines Regarding Budget Deficit and Economic Growth in Bangladesh Economy: A Study
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Pathan, Abdul Jalil; Ahmed, Shahed
Purpose: To get comparative study among Classical, Neoclassical, Keynesian and Ricardian doctrine on budget deficit and economic growth and reveal the most relevant doctrines prevail in Bangladesh economy. Methodology: Descriptive statistics had been utilized to reveal the relevancy of appropriate doctrine support the real status of Bangladesh economy covering period from 2000-01 to 2020-21 fiscal years. Findings: The study found that resolving longer term structural challenges, diversification of exports beyond the RMG sector, graduating from LDCs to developing countries by 2026, upper middle income countries by 2041 and developed countries by 2050 Bangladesh invested huge amount by deficit budgeting in multiple sectors which creates crowd-out private investment specially resources crowd-out mentioned as neoclassical doctrine and expects crowd-in private investment and achieve satisfactory growth rate after successful completion of various mega projects which support Keynesian doctrine. Practical Implication: Budget deficit can increase interest rate and lowering economic growth by crowding-out private investment according to neoclassical thought and Keynes discloses reverse opinion of deficit budget appreciates economic growth by crowding-in private investment. Bangladesh economy operates with both neo-classical and Keynesian doctrine practically and got results in short-run and will get more in long-run. Economy should run with deficit financing and govt. can reduce deficit only by earning more from improving Tax-GDP ratio and hindering money laundering by under in-voicing and over in-voicing. Originality: Bangladesh Govt. should invest more in Social overhead Capital (SOC) by fiscal deficit which will induce Direct Productive Activities (DPA) and economic growth in the long-run. Limitations: All the data are collected from secondary sources and used descriptive statistics since it is a comparative study.
Compliance of GRI G4 and Pattern of Sustainability Disclosure in the Corporate Sector of Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2021-08-01) Sarkar, Dr. Shakhawat Hossain
Purpose: The research is an attempt to find out the pattern and the level of sustainability disclosure as well as identify the relationship of sustainability disclosure with corporate characteristics. Methodology: The study used secondary sources of data collected through content analysis of the annual report of the listed companies in DSE based on GRI G4 guidelines. The sustainability disclosure index (SDI) is used as a measure of the level of disclosure. Data for the study analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, mean, standard deviation, percentile, and ANOVA. Findings: Statistical result implies that the mean SDI is poor (mean 12.19 and SD 9.61) compared to developed and developing countries where economic disclosure is five times higher than environmental and four times higher than social disclosure. Only about one-sixth of the companies prepared separate sustainability reports, and most of the companies disclose sustainability information in more than one place of the annual report. Sustainability disclosure is significantly related to category, nature, industry membership, ISO certification, multi-nationality, age, size, profitability, and leverage of the company. Limitations: The research used only quantity ignoring the quality of sustainability information from the one-year annual report of the company based on GRI G4 guidelines. Practical Implications: The research adds value to the existing knowledge of sustainability disclosure and provides a message to the policymakers. Originality: This is one of the pioneer studies that examined the level and pattern of sustainability disclosure in Bangladesh as well as showed the relationship between sustainability disclosure and company characteristics, considered as an evolving economy.
Concept of Independent Director in South Asian Developing Countries: The Case of Banking Sector in Bangladesh
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2022-08-01) Nasrin, Farjana; Hossain, Mohammad Mobarak
Purpose: The study aims to identify the perception of the independent director in Bangladesh's banking sector and the concept and implications in different developing countries and international standards by reviewing existing literature justifying theoretical contribution. Methodology: Listed 32 banks of Dhaka Stock Exchange are included as a population where 36 respondents from 6 listed banks as a broad stakeholder group are interviewed through convenience and snowballing technique. The study is descriptive with content analysis to justify the understanding of previous studies about the independent director. Findings: Considering Bangladesh as a South Asian developing country, this study indicates differences in corporate governance infrastructure, independent director policies and practices with family orientation, policy coordination and implementation related to other developing countries of South Asia, and international standards. Moreover, the findings expressed somewhat different perceptions and challenges independent directors faced in an actual situation in Bangladesh's banking sector. Practical Implication: This study might help identify the accurate perception of the independent directors and trends and challenges in Bangladesh's banking sector. The report might guide code formulators and policy coordinators to understand why and how the policies addressing independent directors' rules and responsibilities should look in Bangladesh's banking sector. Originality: There is no such previous study highlighting this issue. Now it urges the need to understand the perception of the concept of independent director among the broad stakeholder groups of the banking sector of Bangladesh to identify whether the actual scenario and policies are aligned or questionable. Limitations: This paper includes a small number of respondents which should not be the case. Here, only the listed 32 banks of DSE are included as a population where 36 respondents from 6 listed banks as a broad stakeholder group are interviewed through convenience and snowballing technique which is not mentioned here as the data has confidentiality issue and is not found in the archival.
Consumer Learning through Online Purchasing During Covid-19 and Future Buying Behavior
(Faculty of Business Studies, BUFT, 2023-09-01) Karim, Farhana; Islam, Hasina; Hasan, Dr. Md. Kamrul
Purpose: Covid-19 has fetched an unusual business environment across the world. This study aims to identify consumers' learning through repetitive online purchase during the Covid-19 pandemic situation and its impact on their future purchase and brand choice decision. Methodology: Data has been collected through online survey from the consumers who used to purchase online during the Pandemic and who purchased directly from the market or both. This study had a sample size of 212 people. Data from respondents were gathered through purposeful sampling. For testing hypotheses, the authors have conducted Pearson chi-square testing and chi-square test for goodness. Besides, few descriptive statistics have been calculated to make few concepts clear related to the topic. Findings: The results evident that consumers’ repetitive online purchase experiences during the pandemic situation significantly affect their postpandemic purchasing behaviour. This implies that consumers’ have learned from their experiences during the pandemic situation and they will apply this learning in their future purchase discision. In addition, consumers’ brand switch decision has a dependency on the experiences of the brands in the situation of Covid-19. Originality/Value: This work is completely novel. Most of the research have been conducted on consumers’ behavior during the Covid -19. No work has been done similar to this. Practical Implications: The findings also has a significant contribution to the management practices as well as to the society people. Future research can be done including more consumers in the study. Limitations: Secondary data related to this topic was very few since the issue was very novel on that time.