Harnessing e-Business Applications for Competitive Advantage: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach to Operational Excellence In Emerging Markets
Аннотация
To increase efficiency, coordination, and competitiveness in the face of rapid digital transformation, organisations in emerging economies are adopting electronic business applications more and more. However, their full impact can only be achieved when they are backed by robust interdepartmental collaboration that promotes operational excellence and long-term performance. By encouraging Departmental Collaboration, this study examines how Electronic Business Applications (EBAs) might promote operational excellence in Uzbekistan's fast-food sector. Using information gathered from 523 managerial respondents who represent the top chains, such as Evos, KFC, and Oqtepa Lavash, the study uses structural equation modelling, or SEM, to confirm the connections between EBA integration, teamwork, and operational effectiveness. The results show that through fostering greater interdepartmental cooperation, EBA integration, interaction, and coordination are the elements that directly and indirectly support operational excellence. The correlation and regression analyses showed a substantial positive association (r = 0.831, p < 0.001), and factor analysis revealed that three basic components, EBA, teamwork, and operational excellence, explain 65.99% of the total variation. The data demonstrates that the creation of an effective digital integration and cooperative practices together creates a foundation for competitive advantage in new markets. By linking the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Collaborative Technology Theory, this research gap bridges the digital transformation gap in Uzbekistan's service sector and explains how technology-mediated collaboration fosters organisational agility and excellence. To achieve sustainable competitiveness in the evolving digital economy, the report suggests investing in integrated EBAs, strengthening collaborative cultures, and improving digital skills.