Innovations in Business and Strategic Management

Exploring the impacts of outsourcing and contract management on organizational performance: A qualitative analysis of the Indian Coal Sector 

Pritam Biswas,Sachidananda Pattanaik,Koustav Chatterjee and Tushar Kanti Manna

This study explores the qualitative impacts of outsourcing and contract management on organizational performance within the Indian coal sector, a context often underrepresented in qualitative research. As outsourcing increasingly shapes operational strategies, understanding its effects beyond financial metrics is crucial. Utilizing a case study methodology, this research examines two major organizations: Coal India Limited and another prominent industry player. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, supplemented by observations and document analysis. The analysis reveals significant changes in organizational culture, highlighting shifts in employee morale and management practices post-outsourcing. Strategic challenges emerged, including difficulties in maintaining cohesive company culture and navigating complex contractual relationships. Findings indicate that while outsourcing can enhance operational efficiency, it also introduces risks related to employee engagement and organizational cohesion. The study contributes to a nuanced understanding of outsourcing's impact, emphasizing the need for strategic management of cultural and relational dynamics. Practical recommendations are provided for managing these challenges, offering valuable insights for policymakers and industry leaders. The research underscores the importance of integrating qualitative perspectives into outsourcing studies to better address the complexities of organizational change.

Loan provision practices and borrower utilization behavior: A case study of Grand Microfinance Institution, Hawassa branch 

Yisehak Tesiso Kafa

The objective of this study was to assess of loan provision practice of microfinance and loan utilization behavior of borrowers of microfinance institutions in Ethiopia, a case from Grand MFI institution. To this end, the researcher employed a mixed research approach with a descriptive research design to achieve the objective of the study. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire. A total of 267 respondents were taken as a sample and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.  The result indicates that MFI generally has good loan provision practices; however, advising the borrowers and creating awareness received less attention. Loan diversion among borrowers was commonly observed.  The primary factors leading to loan diversion include borrowers’ perception of loan diversion, urgent needs, diverted for domestic purposes or family needs of money, institutions less follow up with their clients, and advice given to clients during the provision of loans, and the size of loan delivered to borrowers. Therefore the institution should maintain and improve continuously the loan provision practice. It should place greater emphasis on advising borrowers, training them in the utilization of loans, and continuously following up on the clients’ operation regarding loan usage.