Časopis Obrazovanje za poduzetništvo objavljuje izvorne znanstvene i stručne radove koji neposredno ili posredno reflektiraju tematiku odgoja, učenja i obrazovanja za poduzetništvo te povezanih tema vezanih uz poduzetništvo i ekonomiju.. Svrha časopisa je promocija znanosti i struke u obrazovanju za poduzetništvo, ali i šire u smislu proučavanja fenomena poduzetništva i njegov utjecaj na ekonomiju i društvo. Cilj časopisa je doprinos razvoju empirijskih, metodoloških, teorijskih i praktičnih spoznaja u području odgoja, učenja i obrazovanja za poduzetništvo te srodnih disciplina. Tematska orijentiranost časopisa je na društvenim znanostima s fokusom na ekonomiju, poduzetništvo i upravljanje te disciplinama koja se bave odgojem, učenjem i obrazovanjem za poduzetništvo. Časopis Obrazovanje za poduzetništvo podržava regionalno i međunarodno usmjerenje i namijenjen je akademskoj, gospodarskoj i društvenoj zajednici.
Mediation and facilitation techniques in business communication: a communication perspective and implications for the education of economists
The paper analyses mediation and facilitation as communication-based approaches to managing interaction in a business context. From a communication perspective, it examines their fundamental characteristics, key techniques and areas of application in organisations. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of these approaches in conflict management, the facilitation of group processes and decision-making through communication. The analysis shows that mediation and facilitation, although different in terms of their goals and contexts of application, function as complementary approaches and jointly contribute to improving the quality of organisational communication. In addition, the paper highlights the importance of integrating mediation and facilitation competences into the education of economists, with an emphasis on practical forms of learning such as simulations and case studies. In conclusion, mediation and facilitation are recognised as important tools of contemporary communication management in complex organisational environments.
mediation; facilitation; business communication; conflict management; group processes; decision-making; communication competences
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Ana Globočnik Žunac, Zuzana Hubinkova, Danijela Žura
Empirical insights into the role of social entrepreneurship in sustainable rural development: evidence from Croatian agriculture
As one of the key elements in overcoming current social and economic challenges, social entrepreneurship is gaining increasing importance in Croatia. In agriculture, social entrepreneurship is primarily represented through the activities of civil society organisations and cooperatives. The community led local development approach as well as the bottom-up approach overall play a compensatory role in often inadequate conventional state incentive measures aimed at local and regional development. The focus of this paper is on actors who, besides being profit-oriented, are primarily driven by the aim of increasing the quality of life for poorly employable groups and creating positive and sustainable social and economic impacts. The results of the conducted research through desk analysis and focus groups emphasize the important role of social entrepreneurship in the sector of agriculture and rural development, as well as its impact on socio-economic development in Croatia.
social entrepreneurship; agriculture; rural development; Croatia
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Ivana Keser, Sanja Maleković, Sanja Tišma
Artificial intelligence and business model innovation in entrepreneurial management
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how organizations innovate and redesign business models, yet research connecting AI and business model innovation (BMI) within entrepreneurial management remains fragmented. This paper presents a structured thematic synthesis examining how AI capabilities influence BMI processes, governance mechanisms, and innovation outcomes. Using a systematic synthesis approach grounded in BMI and digital transformation research, the review develops a four-layer integrative framework consisting of AI innovation affordances, managerial governance, organizational capabilities, and business model innovation processes and outcomes. The findings highlight that AI does not automatically generate new business models; instead, strategic value emerges through capability development, governance decisions, and iterative experimentation. By integrating AI readiness, dynamic capabilities, entrepreneurial conditions, as well as broader ecosystem and institutional factors into a layered conceptual model, the study contributes to theory development at the intersection of AI management and entrepreneurial innovation, while offering practical implications for entrepreneurs, SME leaders and policymakers navigating AI-enabled digital transformation.
Artificial intelligence; Business model innovation; Entrepreneurial management; Digital transformation
The role of AI automation in advancing resource efficiency and circular economy practices in SMES
This paper examines the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) automation, resource efficiency, and circular economy practices in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the European Union and Serbia. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire targeting owners and senior managers of SMEs and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, and non-parametric group comparisons. The results indicate a strong positive relationship between sustainability-related indicators and circular economy implementation, while AI automation shows a moderate but statistically significant association with circular practices. Regression findings demonstrate that organizational resilience and the regulatory environment significantly enhance the explanatory power of models beyond AI adoption alone. Comparative analysis reveals notable differences in regulatory perceptions between EU and Serbian SMEs, whereas levels of digitalization and sustainability practices remain comparable. The findings confirm that AI-driven digital transformation supports circular economy adoption primarily when embedded within supportive organizational and institutional contexts.
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Jovan Kojić, Aleksandar Gračanac
A marketing perspective on youth preferences in job choice: implications for employer strategies
The aim of this study was to examine the preferences of young people when choosing a job and to consider the implications of the obtained results for employers’ marketing strategies. The research was conducted through a questionnaire on a sample of 81 respondents, and included an assessment of the importance of key job characteristics, including salary levels, job security, work-life balance, work atmosphere and professional development opportunities. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results indicate that young people attach the greatest importance to material security and quality of the working environment, with a pronounced need for personal development. The observed differences in preferences indicate the possibilities of segmentation of the target group, which has important implications for the design and communication of employers’ marketing strategies.
preferences in choosing a job; labor market; marketing strategies; employer branding
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Marina Guzovski
Regulatory compliance as a driver of competitiveness: the role of CE certification in the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises
CE certification represents a formal prerequisite for access to the European Union’s single market; however, in the practice of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it is often perceived solely as a regulatory cost. The aim of this paper is to analyse regulatory compliance as a potential source of competitive advantage and to present CE certification as a strategic instrument for business internationalization. Building on the concepts of compliance management and quality infrastructure, the paper develops a methodological framework that integrates regulatory requirements into product development processes, risk management, and quality management practices. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of CE certification in reducing market risk, strengthening corporate reputation, and increasing customer trust. The analysis indicates that, through a systematic approach, regulatory compliance can be transformed from an administrative obligation into an intangible asset of the enterprise. Finally, the paper highlights the need to strengthen regulatory competencies within entrepreneurship education in order to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs in the EU market.
regulatory compliance; CE certification; SME competitiveness; business internationalization; quality infrastructure
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Davor Grgurević, Viktorija Adamić, Branimir Buntak
Transformation of Business Models: Technology, Globalization, and Sustainable Growth
Innovative business models are crucial for long-term competitiveness. This paper explores the evolution, characteristics, and types of innovations. Through case studies of companies such as Amazon, Uber, Airbnb, Tesla, and Xiaomi, it demonstrates how different approaches transform industries. Key drivers of innovation, challenges, and overcoming strategies are identified. Leadership and organizational culture are important for fostering innovation. Future trends like artificial intelligence and sustainable business models will shape the future. Implementing innovative models enables companies to achieve long-term success and growth.
Innovative business models; business innovations; case studies; industry transformation; leadership; business trends
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Vitomir Tafra, Marko Carić
The impact of the opening of business incubators, centers and agencies on the opening of new companies in Zagreb county
The aim of this paper is to consider and show how the opening of business incubators, centers and agencies affects the opening of new companies in Zagreb County, comparing the period since their establishment with the previous period. The paper is based on the research of publicly available data, interviews with employees of business centers and the analysis of the collected information. The topics of the research are publicly available values of total business infrastructure services and the annual number of newly established companies in Zagreb County. The aim of the research is to determine the correlation between total business infrastructure services and the opening of new companies in Zagreb County. Data processing was carried out using qualitative correlation analysis. The information obtained from the research and interviews provides insight into the impact of business incubators, centers and agencies on the establishment of new companies in Zagreb County, offering a conclusion on how these institutions function and their impact on entrepreneurship in the Zagreb County region.
Zagreb County; entrepreneurial center; business incubator; Development Agency; Enterprises
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Marina Herceg Pendelić
Entrepreneurial opportunity, product development and sustainable business in the textile industry: a case study of the crotrekking brand
This paper examines the process of entrepreneurial opportunity recognition, product development and market positioning in the textile industry, with particular emphasis on sustainable entrepreneurship. The study is based on a qualitative case study of the Croatian brand Crotrekking, which evolved from a digital outdoor community into a commercial venture. The research theoretically grounds and empirically analyses how the founder’s prior experience, accumulated social capital and iterative product development shaped a sustainability-oriented business model. The findings indicate that embedding sustainability into the core business logic, combined with incremental risk management and prototype-based learning, enables differentiation within a highly competitive industry environment. The study contributes to the understanding of entrepreneurial management in micro-enterprises operating under sustainabilitydriven market conditions.
Entrepreneurial opportunity; Product development; Sustainable entrepreneurship; Textile industry; Case study.
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Ivana Vugdelija Tičarić
Vocational and general education models in Europe: comparative outcomes and normative implications for education for entrepreneurship
This paper compares different models of vocational education and training (VET; hereafter VET) and general/university education in Europe, with a focus on their labour-market outcomes and implications for education for entrepreneurship. We analyse dual systems in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, mixed models in the Netherlands and Nordic countries, and the specific position of Croatia, which has one of the highest shares of students in VET programmes in the European Union and one of the lowest early school-leaving rates. Drawing on comparative empirical studies, we show that VET programmes are highly effective in ensuring a fast and smooth school-to-work transition and lower youth unemployment, while general and university education is associated with higher earnings and greater adaptability later in the life-course. The paper integrates these findings with Croatian strategic and legal documents, including the Strategy for Education, Science and Technology, the National Plan for the Development of the Education System and the Croatian Qualifications Framework (CROQF; hereafter CROQF), and offers a critical assessment of the current tendency to promote dual and professional study programmes as functionally equivalent to university programmes. We argue that for a small open economy, sustainable development of education for entrepreneurship requires a balanced architecture: strong VET for short-term operational needs and equally strong university and interdisciplinary programmes for long-term innovation, strategic decision-making and systemic change. The paper concludes with concrete normative recommendations for Croatian policymakers, higher-education institutions and stakeholders in entrepreneurship education.
Autorska prava (c) 2026 Krešimir Buntak, Viktorija Adamić Ciglar, Branimir Buntak
Digitalization as a driver of business efficiency in logistics companies: the case of Northwestern Croatia
Digitalization represents one of the key processes of modern society and the economy. It refers to the systematic use of digital technologies to improve business processes, increase efficiency, create new value, and provide additional opportunities for generating revenue. Digitalization is changing the way businesses operate, communicate, manage resources, and connect with customers and partners. The European Union recognizes digitalization as a strategic priority through initiatives aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, skills, and innovation, while Croatia actively participates in these processes by supporting businesses and modernizing the public sector. To investigate the impact of digitalization on business efficiency, a quantitative study was conducted using a survey among logistics companies in northwestern Croatia. The results show that digitalization positively affects business operations, particularly in warehouse operations, cost management, and employee productivity. The study concludes that continuous investment in digital solutions and employee training is essential for sustaining competitiveness in today’s business environment.
digitalization, digital business, companies, Northwestern Croatia
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Saša Petar, Petra Tišler Kovač, Ena Štampar
The Role of Business Communication Culture in Work Stress and Burnout: A Quantitative Analysis
This paper examines how business communication culture influences work-related stress and burnout across diverse organizational sectors. Using a quantitative survey of 107 employees and validated instruments such as the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the study analyzes the effects of open, hierarchical, and disorganized communication practices on emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and perceived control. Results show that open and transparent communication serves as a protective factor, while hierarchical and disorganized patterns significantly increase misunderstanding frequency, reduce perceived autonomy, and elevate stress. Emotional exhaustion was the most pronounced burnout dimension, particularly in sectors with high interpersonal demands. Findings highlight the mediating role of perceived control and confirm that communication quality is a central predictor of psychological well-being at work. The study contributes to organizational communication research by offering evidence-based recommendations for leadership communication training and structured communication protocols.
business communication; workplace stress; burnout; organizational culture; leadership communication
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Jelena Ivelić Telišman, Špela Skrt Keser
Logistics in the medical industry in Croatia: supply chain optimization for safer and more efficient healthcare delivery
Healthcare systems are increasingly facing challenges in the supply of medicines, medical equipment, and consumables, making logistics a key element in the efficient functioning of the healthcare industry. This paper analyzes the role of logistics in optimizing the healthcare supply chain and its impact on the quality and safety of healthcare delivery. Special emphasis is placed on inventory management, procurement and distribution organization, and the maintenance of the cold chain for sensitive products. The advantages of implementing modern technologies such as ERP and WMS systems, RFID tags, IoT sensors, artificial intelligence, and blockchain are presented, as they enable digital traceability and error reduction. The paper also highlights major challenges such as global supply chain disruptions, regulatory requirements, and the need for sustainability. It concludes that healthcare logistics is not merely a supporting function but a strategic factor that enhances system efficiency and patient safety.
logistics, healthcare system, medical equipment, technology, supply chain, efficiency
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Davor Grgurević, Petra Tišler Kovač, Mateo Migles
Assessment of the financial stability and profitability of logistics companies through the application of financial indicators
The aim of this study was to analyze the financial efficiency and stability of company A and company B during the period from 2020 to 2024. Using the EMS model and BEX index, key indicators of profitability, liquidity, and asset turnover were assessed. Results show that company B achieved higher ROA (6.1-10.3%) and ROE (7.7 - 16.1%), with stable liquidity and reduced leverage, whereas company A recorded lower results and greater dependence on external financing. The analysis also indicates high long-term sustainability for company B and moderate financial risk for company A. The study highlights the need for cost optimization, strengthening of capital structure, and continued monitoring of liquidity and profitability in the logistics sector. These findings provide practical guidance for strategic management and growth planning in logistics companies.
BEX index, EMS model, liquidity, profitability, leverage
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Ivana Martinčević, Dora Kolaric
Fiscalization in Croatia: Evolution from 1.0 to 2.0
The paper “Fiscalization in Croatia: Evolution from 1.0 to 2.0 – Technical, Legal, and Business Changes” examines key phases in the development of fiscalization within Croatian legislation and business practice. The first part analyzes Fiscalization 1.0, which established the basis for digital control of cash transactions in retail, defining the technical framework and main objectives such as business transparency and reducing the grey economy. The second part outlines the requirements of Fiscalization 2.0, which from 2026 introduces mandatory electronic reporting of all business transactions, including B2B and B2G exchanges, digital document exchange, and the elimination of traditional record-keeping systems. The paper compares regulatory frameworks, technical implementations, and their impact on entrepreneurial activity. Special attention is given to the preparation of entrepreneurs and accountants, software adaptation, and new reporting obligations toward the Tax Authority. Fiscalization 2.0 is concluded to represent an essential step toward a digital economy, increasing efficiency and transparency in Croatia’s business environment.
Fiscalization, Croatian fiscalization model, Digital Economy
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Hrvojka Gojković, Ana Mulović Trgovac
The relationship between debt, activity, and the profitability of company in the cold supply chain: an analysis of ROA and ROE
Rapid development, constant changes in the market, changes in consumer habits and needs, numerous innovations, growth in storage and distribution costs, especially in the food industry, present challenges in supply chains and force companies to look for numerous innovative solutions for their business to survive. This paper aims to investigate the relationship between financial structure, asset turnover, and company profitability, with an emphasis on return on assets (ROA) and equity (ROE). In order to analyze the set goal, debt ratios and activity ratios were analyzed to assess their impact on the profitability of company in the cold supply chain sector. The results show that lower debt has a positive effect on ROA, while moderate debt can increase ROE through the leverage effect. Furthermore, higher asset turnover and effective accounts receivable and inventory management improve both ROA and ROE, highlighting the importance of operational efficiency in a capital-intensive industry. These findings confirm that both financial structure and asset utilization are key factors in company profitability.
ROA; ROE; debt; activity; profitability; logistics; cold supply chain
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Ivana Martinčević, Ana Magdić
Social entrepreneurship as a tool for sustainable development in the Republic of Croatia
In the modern world, social entrepreneurship is recognized as a key instrument for solving challenges such as social exclusion, environmental protection, and economic development. In Croatia, a country with numerous social and economic challenges, social entrepreneurs have the potential to contribute to sustainable development by promoting innovative solutions and social innovations. This paper analyses the concept of social entrepreneurship, its role in Croatian society, and provides recommendations for its further development. Using the example of the activities and work of the social cooperative Humana Nova as a social enterprise, the business model contributing to positive environmental and social impact will be described. In conclusion, the importance of creating supportive policies, education, and collaboration among all stakeholders involved is emphasized to strengthen the social economy sector.
Keywords: društveno odgovorno poslovanje; društveno poduzetništvo; održivi razvoj; socijalno poduzetništvo; zadruge.
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Blaženka Bijelić
The role and challenges of entrepreneurial management in ensuring business continuity of family enterprises during intergenerational transition
This paper examines the role of entrepreneurial management in the intergenerational transition of family businesses, analyzed through a qualitative research approach encompassing economic, social, and emotional dimensions. Findings reveal that a well-structured, multi-phase succession process—featuring early successor involvement and clearly defined criteria—enhances the likelihood of successful authority transfer while maintaining financial stability and preserving core family values. The transition typically entails a shift from autocratic to democratic leadership, reflecting a growing perception of employees as vital organizational assets. Successors demonstrate professionalism and innovation by adopting new sales strategies, advancing technological modernization, and utilizing external funding sources such as EU programs, thereby improving market competitiveness. Ultimately, successful intergenerational transition relies on clear governance structures, transparent decision-making, and a balance between socio-emotional and economic goals to ensure the long-term sustainable growth of the family enterprise.
An Analysis of the Implementation of the Extender Producer Responsibility Scheme in Achieving Waste Management Objectives in Croatia
This paper analyses the implementation and effectiveness of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme in achieving national waste management objectives in Croatia. EPR is a policy approach that shifts the responsibility for post-consumer waste from municipalities and taxpayers to producers, aligning with the polluter-pays principle and supporting circular economy goals. Croatia has adopted EPR system for six special waste categories: packaging waste, end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), waste batteries, waste oils, and waste tyres. The study employs a mixed-effects panel data model to evaluate the relationship between EPR-related financial mechanisms and waste treatment outcomes across these categories from 2015 to 2024. The dataset includes monthly observations on fees paid by obligated producers, investments made by the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund, and household consumption levels, with the quantity of waste treated serving as the dependent variable. The results indicate that both producer fees and fund investments have a statistically positive effect on the amount of waste treated, highlighting the importance of financial incentives in driving waste management performance. Conversely, household consumption is negatively associated with treated waste volumes, suggesting that increased consumption may strain existing waste management infrastructure. The study also contextualizes its findings within broader European research, referencing similar panel data analyses that explore the impact of socioeconomic variables on waste generation and circular material use. Notably, the Croatian EPR system has already met or exceeded several EU-mandated targets for waste collection and recycling, particularly in the areas of packaging, ELVs, and batteries. However, challenges remain in aligning fee structures with actual waste volumes and in addressing the environmental risks posed by complex waste streams such as WEEE and waste oils. Overall, the findings underscore the effectiveness of EPR as a policy for enhancing circularity and environmental sustainability. This paper concludes bybrecommending further refinement of financial mechanisms and data monitoring systems to improve the responsiveness and efficiency of Croatia's EPR framework.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Waste Management, Panel Data Analysis, Mixed-Effects Model, Special Waste Categories, Croatia
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Zvonimir Majić, Tomislava Majić
Financial literacy in the context of the education system in the part related to adult education
The Ministry of Science, Education and Youth, along with educational institutions, is responsible for the development of educational policy systems and programs. The Republic of Croatia adopted the National Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia until 2030 in order to positively influence the financial literacy of citizens of the Republic of Croatia due to the devastating results conducted by the OECD in 2023. Therefore, the aim of this research is to analyse and determine the representation of financial literacy content in the Register of the Croatian Qualifications Framework and to propose an educational program as a response to the possible improvement of citizens’ financial literacy. A comparative analysis was used to compare two adult education programs, the results of which are presented in this research. The projections of the conducted analysis show that the newly proposed adult education program has all the prerequisites for improving citizens’ financial literacy.
educational system; Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education; adult education; financial literacy
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Vedrana Šimunić Rod
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND SMES IN SERBIA
The transition towards a circular economy (CE) model presents a formidable challenge that entails a multi-step process, emphasizing the decoupling of economic growth from resource consumption. The pivotal role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in fostering resource efficiency (RE) and advancing towards a circular economy underscores the necessity for dedicated scholarly investigations in this domain. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of RE adoption within SMEs, examining both the European Union (EU) as a whole and the specific case of Serbia. By analyzing data derived from the Flash Eurobarometer spanning the years 2012 to 2024, the study tracked the prevalence of micro, small, and medium enterprises in the EU and Serbia. The findings reveal significant advancements made by EU SMEs in embracing resource efficiency practices and transitioning towards a circular economy. Notably, disparities exist among nations, with Western Balkan countries, including Serbia, currently exhibiting lower levels of resource efficiency integration and CE implementation
Circular economy; Resource efficiency; SMEs
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Aleksandar Gračanac,Suzana Stoimenov,Vojislav Babić
PRACTICES OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY IN THE CONTEXT OF ONLINE ASSESSMENT DURING THE PANDEMIC.pdf
COVID pandemic worldwide and specifically in the Republic of Croatia. While at the time it was the only alternative, online assessment has raised the question of whether and in which measure online assessment can be offer a realistic picture of the students’ knowledge and skills. In order to prevent cheating on online exams, some educational institutions have imposed very small time limits for solving online exams, which turned them into exams for quick solving skills. While acts of academic dishonesty have been present in both traditional as well as online environment, the focus of this paper is on the question of whether and in which measure online assessment opened a door for academic dishonesty.
academic dishonesty; online assessment; pandemic
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Maja Katarina Tomić
SIGNIFICANCE OF QUALITY SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION AND CERTIFICATION FOR CROATIAN COMPANIES' BUSINESS IN VARIOUS ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
Within the context of growing globalisation and turbulence on the global and local markets only companies, that successfully and timely manage to adapt to constant environmental changes and to accept imperative business paradigms, seem to be capable of compete with rival companies. That way, they maintain and/or strengthen their market position. Aspiration for enhancing business and competitiveness is frequently a crucial reason for quality system implementation and certification according to the requirements of the international standard ISO 9001, which significance has been investigated for the purpose of the paper, in the context of achieved effects for business performance of sampled Croatian companies in various economic activities. The survey results clearly indicate positive impact, which might present a proper basis for accepting the studied business concept in non-certified companies. Basically, the surveyed certified companies consider it as an unquestionable recommendation for competing with new market challenges.
quality system, ISO 9001 standard, implementation, certification, Croatian companies
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Diana Plantić Tadić
STREAMING PLATFORM SPOTIFY ON THETHRESHOLD OF PROFITABILITY
The streaming platform Spotify has become the largest music platform globally by number of subscribers and has played a transformative role in the digitalization of the music industry. This paper investigates Spotify’s financial trajectory over the past seven years, examining its journey toward profitability in the context of the platform economy. Specifically, the study addresses three research questions: the overall financial success of the platform, the growth trend in user numbers, and the evolution of share prices. The methodology includes financial trend regression analysis and ANOVA to explore the relationship between operational metrics and stock performance. Data were drawn from Spotify’s annual reports and public databases. The findings indicate that Spotify is entering a period of financial stability, with a positive net income achieved for the first time in 2024. These results have practical implications for understanding monetization strategies in digital platforms and theoretical significance in relation to platform economics and disruptive innovation.
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Joško Lozić, Katerina Fotova Čiković, Ines Lozić
THE (IM)POSSIBILITY OF COEXISTENCE OF THE ENTREPRENEURIAL AND CIVIC DIMENSIONS OF THE THIRD MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY FROM THE STUDENTS' POINT OF VIEW
The third mission of universities is an increasingly relevant topic of study, often promoted through global educational policies and approached from a top-down perspective. This paper offers a bottom-up view by exploring student perceptions of the third mission, with a focus on its civic and entrepreneurial dimensions. The study is based on qualitative research involving twelve students from the University of Novi Sad, using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The section on students’ perceptions of the third mission forms the basis of the analysis. Several factors were identified as relevant to how students understand the university’s role in society. While existing research often treats the civic and entrepreneurial dimensions as separate, this study suggests their integration is both possible and valuable. Both dimensions emphasize engagement beyond the academic context. Social entrepreneurship, as noted by several participants, may serve as a way to humanize the third mission and reconcile its economic and social roles.
Third mission; Civic dimenion; Entrepreneurial dimension; Social entrepreneurship
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Maja Bosanac, Gorana Vojčić, Jovana Turudić
MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS OF ICT INDUSTRYEMPLOYEES FOR INNOVATIVE ACTIVITY
The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry in Croatia is recognized as the leading contributor to the national GDP, showing continuous growth and playing a key role in the country’s technological, social and economic progress. National strategic plans identify the ICT sector as a cornerstone of economic development for the next six years, with its growth fundamentally relying on the innovative activity of its workforce. This paper explores the key motivators that drive ICT employees toward innovative behavior, along with work environment factors that influence their level of motivation. The research methodology focuses on assessing the valence of intrinsic motivators, the impact of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation, and the perceived level of support for innovation within the work environment. The results indicate a high level of awareness among employees regarding both their individual innovation potential and the broader role of the ICT industry. Employees exhibit strong intrinsic motivation for engaging in innovative activities, with noticeable differences in how extrinsic motivators are perceived by those in managerial positions compared to non-managerial staff. Findings highlight the need to strengthen managerial efforts aimed at early identification and removal of barriers to innovation. Based on these insights, the paper provides practical recommendations for ICT industry managers to develop targeted motivational strategies that enhance innovation potential within organizations. Additionally, it outlines directions for future research on employee motivation and innovation in dynamic, high-growth industries such as ICT.
motivation; innovation; employees; ICT industry
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Željka Potić, Iva Senegović, Rino Medić
THE ROLE OF INNOVATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENTREPRENEURSHIP OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN CROATIA, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE INFLUENCE OF EU FUNDS
Innovation is a key driver of competitiveness and sustainable development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Croatia. This paper aims to explore the role of innovation in the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a particular emphasis on the impact of European Union (EU) funds on innovative activities and business growth. Analysis of recent scientific literature, statistical data, and practical examples has been used. The results show that European funds have made a significant contribution to increasing the innovation capacity of SMEs through funding for research, development, and digitalisation. However, challenges such as administrative obstacles and a lack of skilled staff continue to limit the full potential of innovation. It concludes that further strengthening of institutional support and education is key to increasing the efficiency of the use of EU funds and stimulating innovation in SMEs.
innovation; small and medium-sized entrepreneurs; European Union; funds; Croatia
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Igor Kostanjevečki
ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF AN ORGANIZATION
Summary: Human resource competence is one of the four competences an organisation needs to have to ensure its competitiveness. However, ensuring the competence of the organization, in addition to being a prerequisite for competitiveness, is one of the requirements of the quality management system contained in the standard of the quality management system ISO 9001:2015. Ensuring the competence of the organization is one of the basic tasks of organizational management, and once ensured competence must be maintained and upgraded in accordance with the changes that are happening on the market, i.e. the context of the organization. The source of data for researching attitudes and defining the model of human resource competence management is the survey. The research instrument is an online survey. The distribution of responses for independent survey variables is described by Pivot tables in which absolute and relative values, expressed as percentages of the total number of participants in the survey, are for two variables. Extreme, maximum and minimum, values from the tables are interpreted.
organisational competence; the maturity of the management; human resources
QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND CUSTOMERSATISFACTION AS KEY DRIVERS OFCOMPETITIVENESS IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY:INSIGHTS FROM PODRAVKA d.d.
In today’s dynamic business environment, marked by increasing competition, rapid technological advancements, and increasingly demanding consumers, quality management of business processes represents a crucial factor in achieving competitive advantage and long-term sustainability. This scientific paper analyzes quality management within the company Podravka d.d. through the implementation of certifications and international standards, emphasizing their role in shaping customer satisfaction and brand perception. The primary objective is to determine how structured approaches to quality assurance and improvement influence consumer perception, loyalty, and the frequency of complaints. The research applies a mixedmethod approach—qualitative analysis of professional and academic literature on quality management and consumer behavior, along with a quantitative survey conducted among Podravka’s customers. Using a quantitative research method based on a questionnaire, this study examined consumer satisfaction with various aspects of Podravka’s products: quality, value for money, consistency, availability, and ecological features. The results indicate that consumers perceive Podravka as a high-quality brand, characterized by strong loyalty and positive attitudes towards environmentally conscious practices. Key factors of satisfaction include consistent product quality and a favorable priceto- quality ratio, while sustainability has emerged as an increasingly important criteria in purchasing decisions, especially among younger consumers.
consumer perception; customer satisfaction; international standards; product quality; quality management
Autorska prava (c) 2025 Viktorija Adamić Ciglar, Dora Kolaric, Ivan Grgačić
BUSINESS PROCESS OPTIMIZATION THROUGHSIMULATION USING IBM WEBSPHERE MODELERSOFTWARE
Simulations are essential tools in the analysis and optimization of business processes. They enable the modeling of complex systems and processes to predict outcomes under various conditions, without the need to implement these changes in a real-world setting. This paper explores how simulation tools can enhance business processes. Simulations are used to replicate real operations in a virtual environment, allowing for performance analysis and the identification of potential improvements. In the context of business process optimization, simulation helps in understanding the impact of resource changes, such as adjustments in employee numbers, on overall efficiency and productivity. Simulation plays a significant role in the modern logistics sector, enabling organizations to improve operational efficiency across various aspects. Additionally, simulation tools help identify and resolve bottlenecks within the supply chain, thereby enhancing process speed and efficiency. By optimizing the flow of materials and information, simulation contributes to reducing delays and increasing accuracy in logistical operations. These aspects collectively allow organizations to enhance logistics performance, reduce costs, improve customer service, and ultimately strengthen their competitiveness in the market.
simulation; optimization; logistics; business processes