Author:
Boshoff Christo,Adeola Ogechi,Hinson Robert E.,Heinonen Kristina
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to critically evaluate and reflect on the current state of service research in Africa. The purpose is to develop a roadmap to guide future service research in and out of Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
This study is a conceptual reflection and in situ observation of service research and practice in Africa.
Findings
This study delineates scholarly, policy and managerial pathways for further service research in the African context. Service research in Africa is often experience-based rather than concept-based, and such research is often conducted in close collaboration with the local business community. Theoretical development and empirical exploration through collaboration initiatives among institutions with mutual research interests are encouraged.
Research limitations/implications
This study is a theoretical analysis of service research in Africa. Further empirical exploration is needed to delineate service research priorities and methodological directions so as to balance local needs and global relevance.
Practical implications
Africa represents fertile terrain for experience-based insights regarding financial behavior, ecosystem services and nation branding. Grassroots-level involvement in research represents a key component of managerial relevance.
Social implications
This study highlights the role of service research in and about Africa. The discussion demonstrates that the African Ubuntu values of community involvement and a collectivist orientation can expand the relevance of research from the academic business field to broader society.
Originality/value
This study represents a unique perspective on service research in the African context. In doing so, this paper lays the groundwork for more meaningful participation on the part of African-based researchers in the global service research domain. Experience-based research projects focusing on the empirical starting point complement theory development and serve as useful anchors for theory implementation in practice.
Reference83 articles.
1. Financial inclusion, financial development, and economic diversification in Nigeria;The Journal of Developing Areas,2017
2. AfCFTA (2018), “Decision on the draft agreement establishing the AfCFTA”, available at: https://afcfta.au.int/en/documents/2018-03-21/decision-draft-agreement-establishing-afcfta (accessed 18 July 2021).
3. Guest editorial: expanding service research in the MEA (Middle east and Africa) region;Journal of Services Marketing,2021
4. Ubuntu philosophy” for public leadership and governance praxis: revisiting the ethos of Africa’s collectivism;Journal of Global Responsibility,2019
5. Fintech-based financial inclusion and risk-taking of microfinance institutions (MFIs): evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa;Finance Research Letters,2021
Cited by
3 articles.
订阅此论文施引文献
订阅此论文施引文献,注册后可以免费订阅5篇论文的施引文献,订阅后可以查看论文全部施引文献