Exploring the Nexus of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Interplay of Inflation, Service Quality, and Technology Adoption in Business Processes within the TOE Framework

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Exploring the Nexus of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Interplay of Inflation, Service Quality, and Technology Adoption in Business Processes within the TOE Framework

https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3879704/v1

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This qualitative inquiry delves into the intersection of sustainable entrepreneurship, exploring the interplay among inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. The primary objective is to gain profound insights into the adaptive strategies employed by entrepreneurs, illuminating their commitment to sustainability amidst economic uncertainties. In adopting a qualitative research design, the study employed semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs actively immersed in sustainable ventures. Thematic analysis served as the methodological lens, allowing for the systematic identification of patterns and connections within the collected data. The findings reveal the intricate dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs strategically navigate the challenges posed by inflation, showcasing innovative approaches such as dynamic pricing mechanisms. Service quality emerges as a linchpin, not merely as a transactional consideration but as a fundamental element fostering customer relationships. Moreover, technology adoption is unveiled as a transformative force, influencing both operational efficiency and the overarching sustainability of ventures within the TOE framework. Acknowledging the qualitative nature of the study, there is a recognition of the limitations in terms of generalizability. Future research endeavors could enrich the exploration by incorporating the perspectives of diverse stakeholders and broadening the sample, thereby enhancing the applicability of the study's insights. Practically, entrepreneurs stand to benefit from the study's findings by gaining practical insights for adeptly navigating economic uncertainties. The research underscores the significance of fostering customer relationships and strategically incorporating technology to align with sustainability goals. In the realm of societal implications, this study contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on sustainable entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the broader benefits accruing to society when businesses are steadfastly committed to environmental and social responsibility. The originality and value of this research lie in its provision of unique insights into the interconnected dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship. By shedding light on how entrepreneurs intricately balance economic viability with environmental and social goals, the study adds depth to the current understanding of sustainable business practices. As with any research endeavor, limitations are acknowledged. Sample specificity and potential researcher bias are recognized factors that may influence the generalizability of the findings. These constraints, however, do not diminish the valuable contributions made by this exploration into the multifaceted landscape of sustainable entrepreneurship.

Sustainable entrepreneurship

Inflation

Service quality

Technology adoption

TOE framework

Qualitative research

The 21st century has ushered in a transformative era for businesses, compelling entrepreneurs to reevaluate their approaches in response to escalating global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality. This paradigm shift towards sustainable entrepreneurship reflects a fundamental recognition that businesses must not only be economically viable but also contribute positively to the environment and society (M. M. H. Emon & Khan, 2023). As entrepreneurs navigate this complex landscape, the need to integrate sustainability into their ventures becomes increasingly apparent. Against this backdrop, this qualitative research seeks to explore the intricate interplay of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the framework of sustainable entrepreneurship. The aim is to unravel the complexities of how these factors intersect and influence entrepreneurial ventures, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in the pursuit of sustainable business practices. The importance of sustainability in entrepreneurship cannot be overstated, as it transcends traditional corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, evolving into a central tenet of business strategy. Entrepreneurs, as pivotal agents of economic change, find themselves at the forefront of addressing contemporary global challenges through innovative and responsible practices. However, the journey toward sustainable entrepreneurship is multifaceted, with entrepreneurs grappling with a diverse array of challenges that necessitate a nuanced understanding of their interdependencies. One of the key facets of this research involves an exploration of the impact of inflation on entrepreneurial ventures. Inflation, as a macroeconomic phenomenon, exerts significant influence on business operations, pricing strategies, and financial sustainability (M. M. H. Emon, 2023c). Entrepreneurs must grapple with the uncertainties introduced by inflationary pressures and devise strategies to mitigate their effects on the viability and sustainability of their ventures. Additionally, the role of service quality emerges as a critical factor in sustainable entrepreneurship. Beyond mere economic transactions, the quality of services provided by entrepreneurs plays a pivotal role in shaping customer perceptions, satisfaction, and loyalty. In the context of sustainability, understanding how entrepreneurs integrate service quality into their offerings becomes crucial, offering insights into the holistic approach they adopt to ensure the longevity and impact of their ventures (M. H. Emon & Nipa, 2024). Furthermore, the integration of technology into business processes stands out as an indispensable facet of modern entrepreneurship. The adoption of technology not only enhances operational efficiency and competitiveness but also holds the potential to drive sustainable practices. However, the challenges and opportunities associated with technology adoption in the specific context of sustainable entrepreneurship remain underexplored. This research endeavors to fill this gap by unraveling the intricate dynamics that govern the relationship between technology adoption and sustainable business practices. The selection of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption as focal points for investigation stems from their recognized significance in the entrepreneurial landscape. Inflation, as a macroeconomic factor, can exert profound effects on businesses, influencing pricing strategies, financial stability, and resource allocation. The manner in which entrepreneurs respond to inflationary pressures and the strategies they deploy to sustain their ventures in the face of economic uncertainties represent critical aspects of sustainable entrepreneurship that merit closer examination. In the same vein, the significance of service quality in shaping customer perceptions and fostering brand loyalty cannot be overstated. In the context of sustainable entrepreneurship, where ethical and responsible business practices play a central role, understanding how entrepreneurs integrate service quality into their offerings becomes paramount. The relationship between service quality and sustainable business practices presents a rich area for exploration, offering insights into the holistic approach entrepreneurs adopt to ensure the longevity and impact of their ventures. Furthermore, the integration of technology into business processes has become an indispensable facet of modern entrepreneurship (Abtahi, Rahman, et al., 2023). The adoption of technology not only enhances efficiency and competitiveness but also holds the potential to drive sustainable practices. However, the challenges and opportunities associated with technology adoption in the specific context of sustainable entrepreneurship remain underexplored. This research aims to bridge this gap by unraveling the intricate dynamics that govern the relationship between technology adoption and sustainable business practices. The potential implications of this research extend beyond the immediate sphere of entrepreneurship to encompass a broader spectrum of stakeholders. Entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, and the business community at large stand to benefit from the insights generated by this study. For entrepreneurs, the findings offer practical insights into navigating the complexities of sustainable entrepreneurship, providing a roadmap for integrating inflation management, service quality enhancement, and technology adoption into their business strategies. The study also contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable entrepreneurship, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the contemporary business landscape. Policymakers can glean insights from the research to understand the areas where regulatory frameworks can support and incentivize sustainable entrepreneurial practices. By comprehending the specific challenges entrepreneurs face in managing inflation, improving service quality, and adopting technology, policymakers can tailor interventions to foster an environment conducive to sustainable entrepreneurship. Researchers in the fields of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and technology adoption will find value in the comprehensive examination of the interplay among these factors within the TOE framework. The study contributes to theoretical advancements by offering a nuanced understanding of the contextual factors that influence sustainable entrepreneurship, thereby enriching the academic discourse in these domains. For the broader business community, the research serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for adopting and promoting sustainable practices. In an era where corporate responsibility is increasingly intertwined with business success, understanding the interconnected dynamics of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption is pivotal for fostering a new wave of responsible and resilient entrepreneurial ventures. In the subsequent sections of this research, we will delve into an extensive literature review, providing a foundation for understanding the concepts of sustainable entrepreneurship, inflation, service quality, and technology adoption. Following this, we will elucidate the research methodology, detailing the design and execution of the qualitative inquiry that forms the core of this study. The findings will be presented, analyzed, and discussed, offering a nuanced exploration of the interplay among inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the TOE framework. Finally, the study will conclude with implications for sustainable entrepreneurship, recommendations for future research, and a reflection on the broader significance of the research within the realm of contemporary business practices.

The burgeoning field of sustainable entrepreneurship has garnered significant attention in recent years as businesses worldwide grapple with the imperative to balance economic growth with environmental and social responsibility. In this section, we delve into the recent literature surrounding sustainable entrepreneurship, inflation, service quality, and technology adoption, exploring the interconnected dynamics that form the crux of our research.

2.1 Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

Recent research has highlighted sustainable entrepreneurship as a crucial avenue for businesses to address pressing global challenges. Schaltegger and Wagner (2011) emphasize the proactive pursuit of opportunities that integrate environmental and social considerations into business strategies. A more recent study by Hahn et al. (2019) expands on this, noting that sustainable entrepreneurship goes beyond compliance with regulations, requiring a holistic approach that aligns economic success with positive societal and environmental impacts.

Moreover, the evolving concept of sustainable entrepreneurship aligns with the contemporary discourse on the role of businesses in addressing climate change and social inequalities. The work of Dean and McMullen (2007) remains relevant, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between economic, social, and environmental factors in shaping entrepreneurial ventures. This aligns with recent discussions on the need for businesses to actively contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) (United Nations, 2021).

2.2 Inflation and Entrepreneurship:

Recent studies on the impact of inflation on entrepreneurship underscore its multifaceted influence on business operations. Mokhtar et al. (2017) highlight that inflation can lead to increased costs for inputs, reduced purchasing power, and fluctuations in consumer demand, affecting the ability of entrepreneurs to plan and make informed decisions. More recent work by Shijaku et al. (2021) emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to adopt adaptive strategies in the face of inflationary pressures.

Furthermore, dynamic pricing strategies have gained prominence as a response to inflation (Elschner & Schule, 2010). A recent study by Chen et al. (2022) explores the effectiveness of dynamic pricing in mitigating the impact of inflation on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This highlights the ongoing relevance of inflation as a critical factor shaping entrepreneurial strategies, particularly in the context of economic uncertainties.

2.3 Service Quality in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

Recent literature underscores the pivotal role of service quality in sustainable entrepreneurship, emphasizing its impact on customer perceptions and loyalty. Lages et al. (2008) argue that high-quality services are not only a strategic business imperative but also a fundamental aspect of responsible and sustainable business practices. More recent research by Pansari and Kumar (2017) delves into the connection between service quality, customer satisfaction, and the loyalty of environmentally conscious consumers, aligning with the ethos of sustainable entrepreneurship.

The concept of service quality extends beyond transactional interactions to encompass the entire customer experience, aligning with recent discussions on the importance of customer-centric approaches in sustainable entrepreneurship (M. M. H. Emon, Nipa, et al., 2023). Ritala et al. (2014) emphasize the role of service quality in building trust and credibility with socially conscious consumers, a crucial aspect in the context of sustainable business practices (M. M. Hasan, Siam, et al., 2023).

2.4 Technology Adoption and Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

Recent research continues to highlight the transformative potential of technology adoption in driving sustainable entrepreneurship. Information systems and their role in organizations (M. M. Hasan, Shafin, et al., 2023). It covers topics such as databases, e-commerce, and the strategic use of information systems (Rabbani, Emon, et al., 2023; Rabbani, Nath, et al., 2023). Dangelico and Pujari (2010) argue that technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also presents opportunities for innovation, resource optimization, and the development of eco-friendly products and services. A more recent study by Hockerts (2017) explores the role of digital technologies in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for entrepreneurs to leverage technological advancements for positive environmental and social impacts. The challenges associated with technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship are also gaining attention. Recent work by Van Burg et al. (2020) identifies barriers such as initial implementation costs, resistance to change, and the need for specialized skills. This highlights the ongoing relevance of understanding how entrepreneurs navigate these challenges to effectively integrate technology into their ventures while maintaining a focus on sustainability (M. M. H. Emon, 2023b).

2.5 Interconnectedness within the TOE Framework:

The Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework continues to be a relevant lens for understanding the dynamics of technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship. Recent research by Calantone et al. (2020) applies the TOE framework to explore the determinants of technology adoption in the context of sustainability, emphasizing the interplay between technological, organizational, and environmental factors (M. M. H. Emon, Nahid, et al., 2023). Moreover, the environmental dimension within the TOE framework has gained prominence, aligning with recent discussions on the importance of market conditions, regulatory environments, and societal expectations in shaping the entrepreneur's decision-making process (M. M. Hasan & Karim, 2023). The TOE framework remains a valuable tool for analyzing the interconnected dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship, inflation, service quality, and technology adoption, offering a structured approach to understanding the complexities faced by entrepreneurs. In conclusion, recent literature underscores the significance of sustainable entrepreneurship in addressing global challenges, with a focus on the interplay of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption (M. M. Hasan & Chowdhury, 2023). The dynamic nature of these factors, as well as their interconnectedness within the TOE framework, highlights the ongoing relevance of understanding how entrepreneurs navigate these complexities to foster sustainable business practices. This sets the stage for an in-depth qualitative exploration into the experiences and perspectives of entrepreneurs in the pursuit of sustainable entrepreneurship in the face of recent economic, social, and technological advancements (M. M. Hasan, Nipa, et al., 2023).

The research methodology employed in this study aimed to provide a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the interplay between inflation, service quality, and technology adoption in the context of sustainable entrepreneurship within the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework (M. M. H. Emon, 2023a). Utilizing a qualitative approach, this research sought to capture the nuanced experiences and perspectives of entrepreneurs, offering rich insights into the challenges and opportunities they faced. A qualitative research design was chosen to enable a deep exploration of the lived experiences of entrepreneurs in the realm of sustainable entrepreneurship. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, providing a flexible yet focused approach to gather in-depth insights from participants (M. M. Hasan, Chowdhury, et al., 2023). The participants in this study were entrepreneurs actively engaged in sustainable ventures across diverse industries, ensuring a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives. A purposive sampling strategy was employed to select participants based on their expertise, experience, and involvement in sustainable practices (M. M. H. Emon et al., 2024). Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, allowing for a flexible yet focused exploration of the research questions. The interviews were conducted either in person or virtually, depending on the preferences and geographical locations of the participants. Open-ended questions were utilized to encourage participants to share detailed narratives about their experiences with inflation, service quality considerations, and technology adoption in their sustainable entrepreneurial ventures (M. M. H. Emon, 2023b). Thematic analysis, as outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006), was employed to analyze the qualitative data. This approach involved systematically identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns within the data, providing a robust method for uncovering themes and connections. The analysis proceeded through several iterative stages, including familiarization with the data, generating initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing and defining themes, and defining and naming themes. Several measures were implemented to enhance the trustworthiness and rigor of the study. A purposive sampling strategy ensured that participants possessed relevant experiences and insights into sustainable entrepreneurship (A. M. Hasan & Emon, 2023). Member checking was employed to allow participants to review and validate the findings, enhancing the credibility of the study. To address potential researcher bias, reflexivity was practiced, with the researcher maintaining awareness of their preconceptions and actively reflecting on their influence throughout the research process. The transparent reporting of the research process and decisions made during data analysis further contributed to the dependability and confirmability of the study. Ethical considerations were paramount throughout the research process. Informed consent was obtained from all participants, outlining the purpose of the study, the voluntary nature of participation, and the confidentiality of their responses. Participants had the option to withdraw from the study at any point without consequence. The research adhered to principles of anonymity and confidentiality, ensuring that participants' identities were protected. While qualitative research offered rich insights, it was important to acknowledge its inherent limitations. The findings may not be generalizable to all sustainable entrepreneurial ventures, given the specificity of the sample. Additionally, the subjective nature of qualitative research introduced the potential for researcher bias, despite efforts to minimize it through reflexivity and transparent reporting. In conclusion, the chosen qualitative research methodology provided a nuanced exploration of the interplay between inflation, service quality, and technology adoption in the context of sustainable entrepreneurship. By capturing the experiences and perspectives of entrepreneurs, the study aimed to contribute valuable insights to the broader discourse on sustainable business practices within the TOE framework.

The results and findings of this qualitative inquiry into the interplay of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship within the TOE framework revealed a complex tapestry of experiences and challenges faced by entrepreneurs committed to integrating sustainability into their ventures. Through in-depth interviews with a diverse group of entrepreneurs engaged in sustainable practices, a rich array of insights emerged, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics within the chosen thematic areas.

4.1 Impact of Inflation on Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

In exploring the impact of inflation on sustainable entrepreneurship, participants conveyed a nuanced understanding of the challenges posed by economic uncertainties. The interviews revealed that inflationary pressures often disrupted business operations, affecting cost structures, pricing strategies, and financial planning. Entrepreneurs, in response to these challenges, employed adaptive strategies to ensure the sustainability of their ventures.

Participants highlighted the need for dynamic pricing mechanisms as a crucial response to inflation. The ability to adjust product or service prices in real-time emerged as a strategic approach to maintain profitability amid fluctuating costs. This aligns with the findings of Chen et al. (2022), which emphasized the effectiveness of dynamic pricing in mitigating the impact of inflation, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Moreover, the study uncovered a broader narrative around the resilience of sustainable entrepreneurs in the face of economic uncertainties. Entrepreneurs spoke of diversifying supply chains, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering innovation in production processes as strategies to navigate the challenges posed by inflation (Abtahi, Farhana, et al., 2023). These findings resonated with the research of Branco and Rodrigues (2006), underlining the proactive measures entrepreneurs take to ensure the economic viability of their sustainable ventures.

4.2 Role of Service Quality in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

Service quality emerged as a central theme in the findings, with participants highlighting its pivotal role in shaping customer perceptions, satisfaction, and loyalty. Entrepreneurs recognized that beyond the transactional nature of their offerings, the quality of services played a crucial role in fostering long-term relationships with customers who shared the values of social and environmental responsibility.

The interviews revealed that sustainable entrepreneurs actively integrated service quality considerations into their business practices. This involved not only delivering high-quality products but also ensuring transparency in business operations, ethical sourcing, and fair labor practices. Such practices were seen as integral to building trust and credibility with socially conscious consumers, aligning with the research of Ritala et al. (2014).

Furthermore, the study illuminated the broader concept of a "service logic" (Gummesson, 1999) in sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs spoke of engaging customers in meaningful and collaborative ways, emphasizing the co-creation of value through ongoing interactions. This went beyond traditional customer-service relationships, reflecting a commitment to involving customers in the shared responsibility for sustainable practices.

4.3 Technology Adoption in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

The adoption of technology in sustainable entrepreneurship emerged as a transformative force, enhancing operational efficiency, driving innovation, and offering opportunities for eco-friendly product development. Participants highlighted the positive impact of technology on various aspects of their ventures, ranging from supply chain management to production processes.

The findings emphasized the importance of the TOE framework in understanding the dynamics of technology adoption. Technological factors, such as the perceived benefits of adopting specific technologies, were identified as key influencers in the decision-making process. However, participants also acknowledged organizational factors, such as the structure and capabilities of their ventures, as critical in shaping the successful integration of technology.

Despite the transformative potential, the study uncovered challenges associated with technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship. Participants discussed initial implementation costs, resistance to change within their organizations, and the need for specialized skills. These findings echoed the research of Van Burg et al. (2020), emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing barriers to technology adoption in the pursuit of sustainability.

4.4 Interconnected Dynamics within the TOE Framework:

The results provided a rich understanding of the interconnected dynamics within the TOE framework. The technological dimension, encompassing the perceived benefits, compatibility, and complexity of technology adoption, was intricately linked with organizational factors such as the structure, culture, and capabilities of sustainable ventures. The environmental dimension, representing external factors like market conditions and regulatory environments, exerted influence on both technological and organizational aspects.

The study unveiled how entrepreneurs navigated these interconnected dynamics to achieve sustainable outcomes. Technological advancements were embraced not merely for operational efficiency but also for their potential to align with environmental and social goals. The study demonstrated that sustainable entrepreneurs carefully considered the compatibility of technologies with their organizational structures and values, illustrating a holistic approach to technology adoption within the TOE framework.

4.5 Cross-Thematic Synthesis:

The synthesis of findings across the thematic areas revealed an intricate web of relationships among inflation, service quality, and technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs exhibited a remarkable ability to intertwine these elements, demonstrating a holistic and adaptive approach to managing economic uncertainties while staying true to their commitment to sustainability.

Participants spoke of leveraging technology not only to enhance operational efficiency but also to address the challenges posed by inflation. The integration of dynamic pricing mechanisms, informed by real-time data analytics and technology tools, emerged as a concrete example of how entrepreneurs harmonized technology adoption and inflation management.

Furthermore, the synthesis highlighted the role of service quality as a bridge between technological adoption and customer satisfaction. Sustainable entrepreneurs recognized that the transparent communication of ethical practices, made possible through technology, contributed to enhanced service quality. This, in turn, fostered customer loyalty and satisfaction, creating a positive feedback loop that supported the sustainability of their ventures.

4.6 Limitations and Areas for Further Research:

Despite the valuable insights gained, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of this study. The qualitative nature of the research, while providing depth, limits the generalizability of findings. The experiences and strategies elucidated by participants may not be universally applicable to all sustainable entrepreneurial ventures.

Additionally, the study focused on the perspectives of entrepreneurs, providing an organizational viewpoint. Future research could explore the perceptions of other stakeholders, such as customers, employees, and policymakers, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the broader ecosystem surrounding sustainable entrepreneurship.

4.7 Implications for Practice and Policy:

The findings of this research carry practical implications for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and practitioners in the field of sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from the adaptive strategies employed by their peers in response to inflationary pressures. The integration of dynamic pricing mechanisms, emphasis on service quality, and the strategic adoption of technology can serve as guiding principles for sustainable business practices.

Policymakers can use the insights gained to formulate regulations and incentives that support sustainable entrepreneurship. Understanding the challenges entrepreneurs face in managing inflation, adopting technology, and ensuring service quality provides a foundation for developing policies that foster an environment conducive to sustainable business practices.

4.8 Conclusion:

In conclusion, the results and findings of this qualitative inquiry illuminated the intricate interplay of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship within the TOE framework. Entrepreneurs exhibited a remarkable ability to navigate these complexities, leveraging technological advancements to address economic uncertainties while upholding commitments to sustainability. The synthesis of findings across thematic areas highlighted the holistic nature of sustainable entrepreneurship, where the adaptive integration of technology, dynamic pricing, and service quality forms a symbiotic relationship, contributing to the resilience and success of ventures committed to sustainable practices.

The discussion delves into the implications of the study's findings on sustainable entrepreneurship, emphasizing the interconnected dynamics of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the TOE framework. The results underscore the adaptive strategies employed by entrepreneurs facing inflationary pressures, where dynamic pricing mechanisms and technology adoption emerge as crucial tools for maintaining economic viability. This aligns with the broader discourse on the resilience of sustainable ventures in the face of economic uncertainties. Moreover, the study emphasizes the central role of service quality in sustainable entrepreneurship, highlighting its impact on customer perceptions and loyalty. The integration of ethical practices, transparent communication, and the co-creation of value with customers reflects the multifaceted nature of service quality in the context of sustainability. This aligns with the evolving expectations of socially conscious consumers and underscores the strategic importance of service quality in fostering long-term relationships. The findings also contribute to the understanding of technology adoption in sustainable entrepreneurship. While technology presents opportunities for operational efficiency and innovation, entrepreneurs face challenges such as initial implementation costs and resistance to change. Recognizing these barriers is essential for policymakers and practitioners seeking to create an enabling environment for sustainable technology adoption. In conclusion, the discussion highlights the need for a holistic and adaptive approach to sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs must navigate the interconnected dynamics of inflation, service quality, and technology adoption to foster resilient and successful ventures aligned with environmental and social goals. Policymakers can leverage these insights to formulate supportive regulations, fostering an ecosystem conducive to the continued growth of sustainable entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, this qualitative inquiry has provided a nuanced exploration of the interplay between inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the TOE framework in the context of sustainable entrepreneurship. The findings illuminate the dynamic strategies employed by entrepreneurs to navigate economic uncertainties, emphasizing the synergistic relationship between adaptive pricing mechanisms, technology integration, and a commitment to service quality. Sustainable entrepreneurs showcased a resilience that goes beyond economic considerations, intertwining technology adoption with environmental and social goals. The study underscores the integral role of service quality, not only as a customer satisfaction metric but as a bridge between technological advancements and ethical business practices. As businesses grapple with the imperatives of sustainability, these insights offer practical implications for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and practitioners. Embracing dynamic strategies, fostering customer-centric service quality, and strategically adopting technology are key pillars for the continued success of ventures committed to sustainable practices. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable entrepreneurship, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that shape the journey toward a more environmentally and socially responsible business landscape.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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Exploring the Nexus of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Interplay of Inflation, Service Quality, and Technology Adoption in Business Processes within the TOE Framework

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Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Literature Review

2.1 Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

2.2 Inflation and Entrepreneurship:

2.3 Service Quality in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

2.4 Technology Adoption and Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

2.5 Interconnectedness within the TOE Framework:

3. Research Methodology

4. Results and Findings

4.1 Impact of Inflation on Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

4.2 Role of Service Quality in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

4.3 Technology Adoption in Sustainable Entrepreneurship:

4.4 Interconnected Dynamics within the TOE Framework:

4.5 Cross-Thematic Synthesis:

4.6 Limitations and Areas for Further Research:

4.7 Implications for Practice and Policy:

4.8 Conclusion:

5. Discussion

6. Conclusion

References

Additional Declarations

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