My Requirement:
1. Review and edit the content of Chapter 1 (Introduction) and Chapter 2 (Literature Review) (20,000 words). Check for plagiarism and AI content and edit accordingly—correct formatting and references in APA format.
2. To Write Chapter 3 about the Methodology (15,000 words), which shall include Research Design, Research Questions and Hypotheses (quantitative), Population and Sampling Strategy, Research Instrument, Data Collection Procedures, Data analysis, and a summary. Please note that while you will prepare questions/surveys for both qualitative and quantitative analysis, I will do the surveys, but you will need to do the analysis and write-up of the chapter as mentioned above.
3. To write Chapter 4 – Presentation of Results (10,000 words) including Demographic Studies, Details of Analysis and Results, Summary of Results
4. To write Chapter 5 (5,000 words)- Discussion of Results, Conclusion and Practical Recommendations, Recommendations for Further Research.
5. To include any appendices as part of the study
6. Final review, including the writing of the abstract, formatting, and APA format references.
Research Proposal below:
1.1. Title of the Dissertation
1.2.
Research Problem
Despite Malta’s ongoing efforts to advance its digital economy
through investments in digital innovation (Kiselakova,
Sofrankova, Onuferova, & Cabinova, 2020; Brodny & Tutak, 2021),
a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s readiness to adopt and utilize new
technologies remains largely unexplored in the current literature (Fabri,
Fenech, Ellul, & Marmara, 2020, pp. 10-21). There is evidence
suggesting that Malta has made significant strides in digitalization (European Commission, 2022), however, the
process of assessing digital innovation readiness is not straightforward. It
encompasses a broad, multidimensional, and interdisciplinary spectrum of
considerations. This involves evaluating various aspects that contribute to
readiness, including but not limited to, digital literacy of the population,
the growth and resilience of industry sectors, the adoption of technology at a
national scale, and the prevailing policy and regulatory frameworks (Stolterman
& Fors, 2004); (Pereira,
Macadar, Luciano, & Testa, 2016).
The existing literature offers fragmented insights into some of
these aspects but lacks a comprehensive, systematic analysis that can provide a
clear understanding of Malta’s overall readiness for digital innovation. This
research gap could have negative consequences on the nation’s ability to
capitalize on emerging digital opportunities and remain competitive in the
global digital landscape. Moreover, the absence of an all-encompassing
evaluation of a country’s digital readiness might lead to misinformed policies
and inefficient allocation of resources, hindering the nation’s progress toward
a thriving digital economy (Bresnahan & Trajtenberg, 1995; Dedrick,
Gurbaxani, & Kraemer, 2003).
Consequently, the research problem this dissertation aims to tackle
is the assessment of Malta’s readiness for digital innovation. This readiness,
termed herein as ‘digital readiness,’ signifies the nation’s capacity not just
to adopt new technologies, but also to effectively utilize them to foster
growth and innovation. Evaluating digital readiness requires an in-depth
analysis of various contributing dimensions, with an aim to identify potential
shortcomings and opportunities for enhancement (World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), 2022).
Digital readiness, in the context of this research, is conceived as
an interdisciplinary concept that encompasses factors such as digital literacy,
industry growth, technology adoption at a national scale, and the alignment of
policy and regulatory frameworks. All these elements together determine a
nation’s capacity to effectively embrace and leverage new technologies, thus
signifying its state of readiness for digital innovation. This research will
contribute to bridging the existing knowledge gap in literature, by offering a
comprehensive understanding of Malta’s digital readiness (Katz & Koutroumpis, 2012). Furthermore, it
will provide evidence-based recommendations aimed at enhancing Malta’s capacity
to adopt and effectively utilize new technologies, thereby amplifying its
readiness for digital innovation.
1.3. Theoretical Background
This research is anchored in different major theoretical principles
related to the adoption of technology and digital innovation. It aims to
evaluate the readiness of digital innovative technology (DIT) in Malta using
theoretical frameworks such as the innovation adoption theory (Rogers, 2003), the resource-based
view of the firm theory (Barney, Firm Resources and Sustained
Competitive Advantage, 1991), and the digital
maturity model (Westerman, Calméjane, Bonnet,
Ferraris, & McAfee, 2011). The selection of
these frameworks is not arbitrary but is rooted in their established relevance
to the study of technology adoption and digital innovation. Rogers (2003)
posits that the innovation adoption theory provides a lens to understand the
diffusion of innovations across members of a social system, making it pivotal
for studying technology adoption patterns. The resource-based view, as
highlighted by Barney (1991), emphasizes the strategic importance of valuable
resources in achieving competitive advantage, which is crucial in the digital
age. Lastly, the digital maturity model, as discussed by Westerman, Calméjane,
Bonnet, Ferraris, and McAfee (2011), offers a structured approach to assess the
digital transformation journey of entities. While there are other potential
frameworks, these three have been chosen for their comprehensive coverage of
the various dimensions of digital readiness (Rogers, 2003; Barney, 1991;
Westerman et al., 2011).
The innovation adoption theory is a well-established theoretical
framework that has been widely used in literature to understand how new
technologies are adopted and diffused within an organization or society. In the
context of this proposed research, the innovation adoption theory can help to
identify the factors that influence the adoption and readiness of digital
innovative technology in Malta. Recent research on innovation adoption theory
has emphasized the role of psychological, social, and environmental factors in
the acceptance and adoption of digital technologies. For instance, Dwivedi et al., (2020) provide an extensive
review of factors influencing digital technology adoption and investigates the
implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on information management research and
practice. This perspective is relevant to understanding the adoption of digital
innovation in Malta, particularly after COVID-19 pandemic, as it can help
identify the barriers and enablers of technology adoption in the country in
these last years. At a nation-wide
level, this theory can help identify societal and organizational readiness,
such as the willingness of the population to adopt new technologies or the
infrastructure in place to support such adoption.
Before delving into its recent extensions, it’s essential to
understand the core of the resource-based view of the firm theory. It focuses
on how organizations leverage their unique resources and capabilities to gain a
competitive advantage (Barney, Ketchen, & Wright, The Future of Resource-Based Theory,
2011). Recently, this view has been extended to consider digital resources
and capabilities, emphasizing the importance of digital capabilities in driving
digital transformation (Marx, De Paula, & Uebernickel, 2021). While the theory
traditionally applies to firms, its principles can be extrapolated to a national
context. For Malta, identifying digital resources and capabilities that are
valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable becomes crucial. It should be
emphasized that research conducted on nations comparable to Malta, in terms of
both population and GDP size, particularly those concentrating on the
utilization of national resources for digital innovation, will offer pertinent
insights.
The digital maturity model incorporates factors like organizational
agility, data-driven decision-making, and customer-centricity. Kane et al.
(2015) emphasized the importance of strategy over technology in digital
transformation. While this model is often applied to organizations, its
principles can be extended to assess a nation’s preparedness in terms of
digital infrastructure, capabilities, and culture. For Malta, this means
evaluating how mature its digital landscape is and identifying areas for
growth.
These three frameworks, when combined, offer a holistic view of
digital readiness. The innovation adoption theory provides insights into the
factors influencing technology adoption. The resource-based view identifies the
resources and capabilities that can be harnessed, and the digital maturity
model assesses the current state of digital transformation. Together, they
provide a comprehensive toolkit to evaluate Malta’s digital readiness from
multiple angles.
In terms of their application at a nation-wide level, there have
been instances where similar approaches have been employed, especially in small
countries with parallels to Malta. The success of such approaches has often
been contingent on the specific context and challenges of the nation in
question. However, the combined use of these three frameworks at a national
level is relatively novel, making this research both timely and significant.
Previous research has examined the adoption and use of digital
technologies in different countries, including in Europe (World Economic Forum, 2019). However, there is
limited research on the readiness of digital innovative technology in Malta.
This proposed study will draw upon case studies from other countries to shape
and drive the research. These case studies will help to identify the key
factors that influence the adoption and readiness of digital innovative
technology, as well as the challenges and opportunities that organizations face
in this process. This research aims to contribute to the understanding of how
organizations in Malta can assess their readiness for digital innovation and
effectively implement digital technologies to gain a competitive advantage in
their industries. The theoretical background for this
research has been carefully chosen to ensure a comprehensive and nuanced
understanding of Malta’s digital readiness. The frameworks not only complement
each other but also provide a robust foundation for the study, ensuring its
relevance and depth.
1.4. Significance of Research
The readiness of
Malta’s digital ecosystem to effectively accept and exploit digital innovative
technologies merits further investigation due to its significance and
timeliness, both at the national and EU levels. As a member state of the
European Union (EU), Malta’s digital progress aligns with the broader European
digital agenda, making it imperative to consider the EU context in this study.
By examining Malta’s digital ecosystem within the EU framework, we can gain a
comprehensive understanding of its readiness for digital innovation and
identify areas for improvement in line with EU objectives. The results of this
research hold the potential to have multiple measurable effects, not only
within Malta but also in the context of the EU digital landscape.
While Malta has
shown a commitment to fostering a digital ecosystem through its National
Strategy in AI, Malta’s Smart Specialisation Strategy, MCAST Artificial
Intelligence Strategy, National Strategy on Technology, National eSkills
Strategy and the overarching Digital Strategy, its approach has been notably
fragmented. These strategies, though not explicitly labeled as DIT-focused,
encompass various facets of digital innovation and indirectly influence the
trajectory of Digital innovation technology in the country. This fragmented
strategy approach, unique to Malta, underscores the importance of this
research. By evaluating the readiness of digital innovation technology in
Malta, this study aims to bridge the existing knowledge gap and provide
insights that could potentially guide a more consolidated and effective
strategic approach in the future.
The readiness of
Malta’s digital ecosystem to effectively accept and exploit digital innovative
technologies merits further investigation because it focuses on a topic that is
both significant and topical at the same time. The results of this research
have the potential to have a number of different measurable effects. This study
will provide significant insights into the current situation of digital
innovative technologies in Malta, which may be used to inform the creation of
policies and strategies that support the adoption and utilisation of these
technologies. This may have a beneficial effect on the expansion of Malta’s
digital economy as well as its level of competitiveness. The possibility exists
that the study will identify a deficiency in digital skills as a difficulty
that Malta’s digital ecosystem is now confronting. If so, the findings of the
study might be used to inform the development of specialised digital skills
development programmes. This has the potential to promote the adoption and
exploitation of digital innovative technologies, as well as improve the digital
preparedness of Malta’s workforce.
These kinds of
discoveries have the potential to improve digital infrastructure. It may be
determined by the study that Malta’s digital ecosystem faces challenges
attributable to its underdeveloped digital infrastructure. If so, the findings
of the study can help inform the establishment of specific infrastructure
development plans. This has the potential to improve access to high-speed
internet as well as data centres, as well as increase the adoption and
utilisation of digitally innovative technology.
Despite this, the
study has the potential to facilitate the implementation of digitally new
technology. The development of specific programmes and activities to assist the
use of these technologies can be informed by this information, which can lead
to the growth and competitiveness of Malta’s digital economy.
A comprehensive
approach that encompasses sectorial analysis, technology-based assessment, and
capacity building evaluation will base the study’s structure. These dimensions
will allow for an in-depth exploration of various sectors and technologies
within Malta, while also examining the capacity of the digital ecosystem to
support digital innovation and adoption. The specific structure will be further
refined during the research study, taking into account relevant EU frameworks,
sectorial considerations, and capacity-building needs to provide a
comprehensive analysis of Malta’s readiness for digital innovative technologies
within the EU context.
1.5.
Research Questions and/or
Hypotheses
R1: How does Malta’s
digital readiness for innovative technologies align with its aspirations and
the broader European digital landscape?
R1.1: What is the
current state of Malta’s digital readiness in terms of infrastructure, digital
literacy, and policy frameworks?
R1.2: How is Malta’s
current state of digital readiness compare with similar EU member states?
R1.3: What are the
key challenges and opportunities Malta faces in its journey towards achieving a
robust digital economy within the European context?
R2: What factors and
resources influence the adoption, utilization, and maturity of digital
innovative technologies in Malta?
R2.1: Which sectors
and which technologies in Malta are at the forefront of adopting digital
innovative technologies, and which ones lag behind?
R2.2: Based on the resource-based view, what unique
digital resources and capabilities does Malta possess, and how do they
contribute to its digital transformation journey?
R2.3: Using the
digital maturity model, where does Malta stand in its digital transformation,
and what areas require focused attention for growth and development?
1.6. Research Methodology
This research will
employ a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative
methods, to comprehensively investigate the readiness of Malta’s digital
ecosystem in adopting and utilizing digital innovative technologies. The
rationale for this chosen methodology lies in its ability to provide a holistic
understanding of the research topic by capturing both numerical data and
nuanced insights from key stakeholders.
The qualitative
component of the study will involve conducting in-depth interviews with digital
innovation technology specialists who will be chosen using a purposive sampling
strategy, targeting diverse roles like CTOs, Digital Transformation
Consultants, and Policy Advisors from various sectors. To avoid echo chambers
and repetitive trends, the interview design will promote critical thinking,
ensure anonymity for candid feedback, and cross-validate responses with
existing literature and global best practices. This approach aims to provide an
authentic analysis of Malta’s digital readiness.
The specific
qualitative research approach is still to be determined because it will be
influenced by the evolving nature of the research questions and objectives as
the study progresses. Furthermore, the researcher aims to ensure that the
chosen approach aligns seamlessly with the data collection methods and the
nature of the participants. This approach is chosen to gain a deeper
understanding of the complexities, challenges, and opportunities associated
with digital innovation in Malta. The semi-structured interviews will allow for
open-ended discussions, enabling participants to share their expertise,
experiences, and perceptions. The qualitative data collected through interviews
will be thematically analyzed to identify recurring patterns, themes, and
unique insights. This approach will provide rich, contextualized information, enhancing
the overall understanding of the research topic.
Complementing the
qualitative component, the study will also employ a quantitative component in
the form of a survey. The survey will be distributed to key players in Malta’s
digital ecosystem, including industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and
technology providers. By gathering quantitative data, the survey will provide a
broader perspective on the current state of digital innovative technologies in
Malta, enabling the identification of trends, statistical patterns, and
quantitative correlations. The survey data will be analyzed using appropriate
statistical techniques to derive meaningful insights and support the
quantitative aspects of the research.
The mixed-methods
approach is selected to leverage the strengths of both qualitative and
quantitative methods. By incorporating in-depth interviews and surveys, the
study will ensure a comprehensive examination of the research topic. The
qualitative component will capture rich, contextual insights from experts,
while the quantitative component will provide statistical evidence and a
broader understanding of the overall digital ecosystem.
This research methodology will enable a comprehensive analysis of
the challenges, opportunities, and readiness of Malta’s digital ecosystem in
adopting and utilizing digital innovative technologies. The integration of
qualitative and quantitative methods will facilitate a more nuanced
understanding of the topic, allowing for informed decision-making and the
development of effective strategies and policies.
1.7. Data Sources and Rights of the Participants
The research will draw upon various sources of data and involve the
participation of key stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive analysis of Malta’s
digital ecosystem and its readiness for digital innovative technologies. The
research will encompass a thorough review of existing studies, reports, and
literature related to digital innovative technologies in Malta. This will
include an examination of similar national studies conducted in other
countries, research from an EU context, and studies with an international
perspective. By drawing upon a wide range of literature, the study will benefit
from diverse perspectives, best practices, and lessons learned in digital
innovation.
A survey will be conducted among major players in Malta’s digital
ecosystem. The survey will target government officials, industry leaders,
technology startups, and representatives from small and medium-sized
enterprises (SMEs). In addition to the survey questions addressing the
perceived situation, metrics related to investment in digital innovation,
employment figures in technology-driven sectors, and other relevant indicators
will be included. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the
actual state of digital innovative technologies in Malta, moving beyond
perceptions and capturing tangible data.
In-depth interviews will be conducted with professionals in the
field of digital innovative technologies, including researchers, practitioners,
and industry leaders. The interview participants will be selected based on
their expertise, knowledge, and experience in the digital ecosystem. The
interviews will delve into the nuances of Malta’s digital innovation landscape,
exploring the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for advancement.
Insights gained from these interviews will complement the survey data,
providing a deeper understanding of the current state and potential of digital
innovative technologies in Malta.
By utilizing these sources of data and engaging with diverse
participants, the research aims to establish a comprehensive and robust
analysis of Malta’s digital ecosystem. The combination of literature analysis,
surveys, and interviews will enable a multi-dimensional perspective,
incorporating national, EU, and international perspectives. Additionally, the
inclusion of metrics related to investment, employment figures, and other
relevant indicators will provide a more objective assessment of the actual
situation, complementing the analysis of perceptions and experiences.
In the context of this research, it is important to disclose that
the researcher is the CEO of the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA). As
the CEO, the researcher occupies a unique position to leverage insights and
expertise to contribute to the study’s significance and impact. While the
primary goal of the research is to understand the current state, the researcher
will assume a neutral role, avoiding personal opinions, and fostering an
objective environment. The CEO-researcher will disclose his position and
affiliation, ensuring that potential biases are acknowledged and mitigated. In
doing so, the research study aims to uphold the highest standards of integrity,
accountability, and credibility.
Protecting the rights of participants is paramount in this research
study. Prior to participation, all prospective participants will receive
comprehensive information about the study’s purpose, procedures, potential
risks and benefits, the voluntary nature of participation, and data management.
They will be asked to provide informed consent, indicating their intent to
participate in the study. Participants will have the right to withdraw from the
study at any time without any negative repercussions. Confidentiality and
anonymity will be rigorously maintained throughout the research. The identities
and personal information of participants will remain confidential and will not
be disclosed or shared without their consent. All participant data will be
stored securely, and only authorized researchers will have access to them. When
publishing results or findings, every effort will be made to prevent the
identification of participants.
1.8. Legal Issues
The participants’
personal data management will adhere to relevant data protection
regulations, such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and
applicable local data protection statutes. Personal information will be
safeguarded against unauthorised access, loss, and misuse. Participation in the
study will be wholly voluntary, and participants will be free to decline
participation or resign from the study at any time with no negative
consequences. Participants will be given explicit withdrawal instructions, and
their decisions will be honoured without dispute.
Throughout the
duration of the study, participants’ privacy will be rigorously protected, and
their information will be used solely for the stated purposes. Any data shared
or published will be aggregated or anonymized to prevent the identification of
individual participants.
Another legal issue which
warrants careful consideration is the respect for intellectual property rights,
ensuring that all materials and methods utilised are free from existing
copyright or patent constraints. Potential conflicts of interest, particularly
of a financial nature, will be candidly disclosed. As the research moves
towards the culmination of the research and its subsequent publication, the
researcher will navigate the legal nuances associated with proprietary data or
methods. The integration of technology in the research, be it through online
surveys or digital tools, will be executed in harmony with prevailing
technology and privacy legislations, ensuring a seamless and legally sound
research process.
At the end of the study, participants will have the opportunity to
participate in a debriefing, during which they may pose inquiries or seek
clarification regarding the study. By implementing these measures, the research
study seeks to uphold ethical standards, safeguard participant rights, and
ensure the confidentiality, and privacy of everyone involved in the research
procedure.
1.9. References
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Barney, J., Ketchen, D., & Wright, M.
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Bresnahan, T. F., & Trajtenberg, M.
(1995). General purpose technologies ‘Engines of growth’? Journal of
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Brodny, J., & Tutak, M. (2021).
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Dedrick, J., Gurbaxani, V., &
Kraemer, K. (2003). Information technology and economic performance: A
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Fabri, J., Fenech, G., Ellul, J., &
Marmara, V. (2020). Digital Malta, Digital transformation as a route to
national productivity and competitiveness. National Productivity Report
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Kane, G. C., Palmer, D., Phillips, A. N.,
Kiron, D., & Buckley, N. (2015). Strategy, not technology, drives digital
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Ferraris, P., & McAfee, A. (2011). Digital transformation: A Roadmap for
billion-dollar organisations. MIT Center for Digital Business and
Capgemini Consulting. Retrieved from
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Europe: Competing for global innovation leadership. Retrieved from
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(WIPO). (2022). Global Innovation Index 2022: What is the future of
innovation-driven growth? Geneva: WIPO. doi:10.34667/tind.46596