Alkida Hasaj - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Alkida Hasaj

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

Acta Polytechnica Hungarica

The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their im... more The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their importance, role, or impact they have on our society. Changes in the environment in which these organizations operate and increased competition have made them more difficult to secure funding to support their mission. This has forced them to think of ways or strategies to be more interesting and attractive to stakeholders. The application of some principles of for-profit organizations to not for-profit ones, such as marketing orientation and specifically brand orientation is essential. The purpose of this paper is to assess whether the not-for-profit organizations that operate in Albania are brand-oriented and whether this influence their performance. To conduct this research, an extensive review of literature on marketing, brand, and brand orientation in the not-for-profit sector was carried out. After that, it has become possible to build a conceptual model based on the elements of brand orientation suggested

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

Acta Polytechnica Hungarica, 2023

The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their im... more The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their importance, role, or impact they have on our society. Changes in the environment in which these organizations operate and increased competition have made them more difficult to secure funding to support their mission. This has forced them to think of ways or strategies to be more interesting and attractive to stakeholders. The application of some principles of for-profit organizations to not for-profit ones, such as marketing orientation and specifically brand orientation is essential. The purpose of this paper is to assess whether the not-for-profit organizations that operate in Albania are brand-oriented and whether this influence their performance. To conduct this research, an extensive review of literature on marketing, brand, and brand orientation in the not-for-profit sector was carried out. After that, it has become possible to build a conceptual model based on the elements of brand orientation suggested

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington Univer... more The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington University’s Research Program in Social and Organizational Learning. Its participants included university teachers from Albania, Serbia, Croatia, Macedonia, and Georgia who had come to the United States under the auspices of the United States State Department’s Junior Faculty Development Program and the Open Society Institute to learn about new teaching methods that they might use in their classes back home. This report describes seven conceptual policy possibilities pertaining to the introduction of new teaching methods that the teachers explored, developed, articulated, and tested during the course of their discussions. It also describes their concerns about introducing new teaching methods in their countries; their thoughts about the actions that might be taken to implement each of the conceptual possibilities that they developed; and their thoughts about the practical consequences that tho...

Research paper thumbnail of Improvement in Professional Education and Its Impact on Sustainable Tourism

SOCIETY. TECHNOLOGY. SOLUTIONS. Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference

INTRODUCTION Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Albania. The direct, and indirect co... more INTRODUCTION Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Albania. The direct, and indirect contribution of this industry to Albania’s economy during recent decades has been high. The development of sustainable tourism is also a key to success that requires a great deal of responsibility, careful planning and competence to achieve. For this reason, the Albanian government is investing in creating improved environmental conditions through legal policy, investment in infrastructure and the preparation of qualified human capacities for tourism, etc. Given that many elements impact a well-functioning tourism sector, one of the most delicate issues remains human resources. The special importance of qualified human resources in tourism, the lack of culture inherited from the past in the hospitality sector in Albania, as well as globalisation, brought the necessity to develop a better education system, which is designed and orientated toward one purpose; that of sustainable tourism. Pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparisons of stakeholders' perception towards the sustainable tourism development and its impacts in Shkodra Region, Albania

Turizam, 2010

Tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries, and has been identified as a means of g... more Tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries, and has been identified as a means of generating national income in less industrialized economies. Like other countries, Albania has promoted tourism as a major source of national income. The tourism industry in Albania currently focuses on coastal areas, rather than on the unique features that set this country apart from its neighbors. Albania's natural features have the potential to attract tourists seeking ecological and cultural experiences. Thoughtful, sustainable development of these resources could enhance community livelihoods throughout Albania. The purpose of this study was to discover if differences in perceptions of sustainable tourism development and principles in Shkodra Region existed between four stakeholder groups: residents, entrepreneurs, government officials, and tourists. Data were collected from stakeholders using a self competed questionnaire, which included Likert-style questions inquiring about attitudes and perceptions of sustainable tourism development in the community. The data gathered illustrate that the perception of sustainable tourism principles varies considerably among stakeholder groups. As a distinct stakeholder group, the majority of local residents generally were welcoming of tourism.

Research paper thumbnail of Branding Strategy for Non - Profits in Developing Countries: Case Study - Albania

Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, 2013

Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of ... more Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of the Non-Profit sector in recent decades. This happen because the non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life and the rapid changes in environmental conditions. Actually dozens of nonprofit organizations operate also in Albania. However, the increase in the number of these third sector organizations has not been accompanied by an equal growth in the availability of human and financial resources. This has led to an increase in competition between nonprofit organizations for the limited sources of revenue and volunteers available. As nonprofit sector has become more competitive it is important to be able to build strong brand identity, image and personality in order to differentiate themselves in the growing nonprofit sector. In this study the two main concerns are, branding and increased competition between nonprofits. So the purpose for this study is to demonstrate the use of brand management to create distinction, and the challenges of merging branding methodologies into nonprofit organizations that operate in Albania. The data to conduct this paper were collected from the contemporary literature in this field and using a qualitative research through in depth interviews with managers of a nonprofit organization that operate in North Albania-"I CARE".Results demonstrate there is more informal than a formal process to evaluate its brand by nonprofit organization that operates in North Albania.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington Univer... more The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington University’s Research Program in Social and Organizational Learning. Its participants included university teachers from Albania, Serbia, Croatia, Macedonia, and Georgia who had come to the United States under the auspices of the United States State Department’s Junior Faculty Development Program and the Open Society Institute to learn about new teaching methods that they might use in their classes back home. This report describes seven conceptual policy possibilities pertaining to the introduction of new teaching methods that the teachers explored, developed, articulated, and tested during the course of their discussions. It also describes their concerns about introducing new teaching methods in their countries; their thoughts about the actions that might be taken to implement each of the conceptual possibilities that they developed; and their thoughts about the practical consequences that tho...

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of the Socio-Economic Impact of Flooding in Shkodra Region, Albania

Assessment of the Socio-Economic Impact of Flooding in Shkodra Region, Albania

<p>In the recent years, flood situations have been experienced in some regi... more <p>In the recent years, flood situations have been experienced in some regions of Albania, but those that constitute a greater risk are those in the sub localities of Shkodra region. Fortunately, natural disaster are events that occur rarely, but the truth is that they have a high impact on the lives of many people, especially those belonging to developing countries such as Albania. They are associated with the loss of many lives, causing major impact on economic performance and social aspects as well as breaking, the chain of macro and microeconomic balances.</p><p>The purpose of this study is to identify the socio-economic impact of floods in the Shkodra region. Describing also the different categories of cost imposed by natural hazard as flood and the most effective way of economic recovery in the conditions of a small developing countries such as Albanian economy. This valuation will be carried out using secondary data such as; the macro and micro economic impact of these natural disasters, climate change, floods over the years in the Shkodra region, damage caused and management of these natural disasters. While primary data are provided through the qualitative method of structured interviews, designed to highlight the socio-economic impact of the flood on individuals and families in these areas, during 2018 flood.</p><p>Many catastrophes cannot be avoided, especially natural disasters, however their effects can be mitigated through good management. Over the last 30 years, investments in rehabilitating flood protection infrastructure have been minimal. Flood damage has been assessed mainly after events and detailed flood protection models have been prepared mainly based on emergency responses. Residents affected by flood experienced damage and loss, and while seasonal rains begin, they are worry and fear for loss property and livestock.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Key word; </strong>Flood, Climate Change, Economic Impact, Social Impact, Shkodra Region.</p><p> </p>

Research paper thumbnail of The Historical and Legal Development of Nonprofit Sector in Albania: Case Study - Red Cross Albania

Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, Dec 15, 2015

Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of ... more Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of the Nonprofit sector in recent decades. This happen because the Nonprofit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life and the rapid changes in environmental conditions. But the Philanthropic activities has been developed since in the ancient times. The first traces of philanthropy among Albanians have early roots and lie since the period of the Middle Ages. Philanthropy in Albania is strongly connected to social, economic and historical development of the country. The purpose of this study is to show the historical and legal development of nonprofit sector in Albania. The reason for historical treatment in this paper, is conducted in order to see the beginnings and development until our day of philanthropic activities of non-profit organizations in Albania. It is explored also the legal aspect of nonprofit sector in Albania. The data to conduct this paper were collected from the contemporary literature in this field. Also are provided from primary data, using qualitative research through in-depth interviews with managers of nonprofit organization "Red Cross Albania". The findings of this study show that: The creation and development process of non-profit organizations in Albania, dates back to the beginning of democracy and economic openness. Still it needs further improvement of the legal environment for NPOs in Albania.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovative Approach for Tourism Enterprise in Albania

European Journal of Service Management

The purpose of this study is to examine the current challenges and barriers to the Albania touris... more The purpose of this study is to examine the current challenges and barriers to the Albania tourism enterprises (such as; travel agencies, hotels and bar/restaurant) and attempts to reveal innovative approaches to cope with these recent challenges and barriers. Innovation is at the heart of any successful company so it is very worthy to discuss on the role that innovation plays in providing competitiveness. The data were collected from some tourism enterprises that operate in Albania, like travel agencies, hotels and bar/restaurant using a self completed questionnaire. The data gathered illustrate that the innovation in these enterprises is driven basically by the owner-manager ambition to improve the existing facilities and services to satisfy customers and develop a successful and reputable business. The research results can contributes to travel agencies, hotels and bar/ restaurants management both academically and practically.

Research paper thumbnail of The Mission-Based Management Practices in Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

European Scientific Journal, Jul 27, 2012

The non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life. Dozens of nonprof... more The non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life. Dozens of nonprofit organizations actually operate in Albania. During the last 20 years there has been a significant increase in the number of non-profit organizations, because of the rapid changes in the environmental conditions. Regardless the increase in the number of these organizations, the economic challenges in the last decade had a huge influence in their ability to survive. For this reason the non-profit sector states the financial capacity as its greatest challenge. This new economy would give rise to a decline in the survival of many non-profit organizations, especially those that relied solely on government and other support. The purpose of this research is to examine whether or not the mission-based management practices suggested by Brinckerhoff had any relationship to revenues in non-profit organizations. Researchers such as Brinckerhoff postulated that non-profits must incorporate for-profit business practices into their organizational strategies (like strong marketing focus, etc) in order to adapt to the financial changes taking place in the non-profit sector. The data to conduct this study were collected from some non-profit organization in Albania using a questionnaire which they filled in by themselves. The survey questions focused

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

Acta Polytechnica Hungarica

The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their im... more The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their importance, role, or impact they have on our society. Changes in the environment in which these organizations operate and increased competition have made them more difficult to secure funding to support their mission. This has forced them to think of ways or strategies to be more interesting and attractive to stakeholders. The application of some principles of for-profit organizations to not for-profit ones, such as marketing orientation and specifically brand orientation is essential. The purpose of this paper is to assess whether the not-for-profit organizations that operate in Albania are brand-oriented and whether this influence their performance. To conduct this research, an extensive review of literature on marketing, brand, and brand orientation in the not-for-profit sector was carried out. After that, it has become possible to build a conceptual model based on the elements of brand orientation suggested

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Brand Orientation Dimensions on Organizational Performance of Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

Acta Polytechnica Hungarica, 2023

The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their im... more The not-for-profit sector has become crucial over these decades. These may be because of their importance, role, or impact they have on our society. Changes in the environment in which these organizations operate and increased competition have made them more difficult to secure funding to support their mission. This has forced them to think of ways or strategies to be more interesting and attractive to stakeholders. The application of some principles of for-profit organizations to not for-profit ones, such as marketing orientation and specifically brand orientation is essential. The purpose of this paper is to assess whether the not-for-profit organizations that operate in Albania are brand-oriented and whether this influence their performance. To conduct this research, an extensive review of literature on marketing, brand, and brand orientation in the not-for-profit sector was carried out. After that, it has become possible to build a conceptual model based on the elements of brand orientation suggested

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington Univer... more The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington University’s Research Program in Social and Organizational Learning. Its participants included university teachers from Albania, Serbia, Croatia, Macedonia, and Georgia who had come to the United States under the auspices of the United States State Department’s Junior Faculty Development Program and the Open Society Institute to learn about new teaching methods that they might use in their classes back home. This report describes seven conceptual policy possibilities pertaining to the introduction of new teaching methods that the teachers explored, developed, articulated, and tested during the course of their discussions. It also describes their concerns about introducing new teaching methods in their countries; their thoughts about the actions that might be taken to implement each of the conceptual possibilities that they developed; and their thoughts about the practical consequences that tho...

Research paper thumbnail of Improvement in Professional Education and Its Impact on Sustainable Tourism

SOCIETY. TECHNOLOGY. SOLUTIONS. Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference

INTRODUCTION Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Albania. The direct, and indirect co... more INTRODUCTION Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Albania. The direct, and indirect contribution of this industry to Albania’s economy during recent decades has been high. The development of sustainable tourism is also a key to success that requires a great deal of responsibility, careful planning and competence to achieve. For this reason, the Albanian government is investing in creating improved environmental conditions through legal policy, investment in infrastructure and the preparation of qualified human capacities for tourism, etc. Given that many elements impact a well-functioning tourism sector, one of the most delicate issues remains human resources. The special importance of qualified human resources in tourism, the lack of culture inherited from the past in the hospitality sector in Albania, as well as globalisation, brought the necessity to develop a better education system, which is designed and orientated toward one purpose; that of sustainable tourism. Pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparisons of stakeholders' perception towards the sustainable tourism development and its impacts in Shkodra Region, Albania

Turizam, 2010

Tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries, and has been identified as a means of g... more Tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries, and has been identified as a means of generating national income in less industrialized economies. Like other countries, Albania has promoted tourism as a major source of national income. The tourism industry in Albania currently focuses on coastal areas, rather than on the unique features that set this country apart from its neighbors. Albania's natural features have the potential to attract tourists seeking ecological and cultural experiences. Thoughtful, sustainable development of these resources could enhance community livelihoods throughout Albania. The purpose of this study was to discover if differences in perceptions of sustainable tourism development and principles in Shkodra Region existed between four stakeholder groups: residents, entrepreneurs, government officials, and tourists. Data were collected from stakeholders using a self competed questionnaire, which included Likert-style questions inquiring about attitudes and perceptions of sustainable tourism development in the community. The data gathered illustrate that the perception of sustainable tourism principles varies considerably among stakeholder groups. As a distinct stakeholder group, the majority of local residents generally were welcoming of tourism.

Research paper thumbnail of Branding Strategy for Non - Profits in Developing Countries: Case Study - Albania

Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, 2013

Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of ... more Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of the Non-Profit sector in recent decades. This happen because the non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life and the rapid changes in environmental conditions. Actually dozens of nonprofit organizations operate also in Albania. However, the increase in the number of these third sector organizations has not been accompanied by an equal growth in the availability of human and financial resources. This has led to an increase in competition between nonprofit organizations for the limited sources of revenue and volunteers available. As nonprofit sector has become more competitive it is important to be able to build strong brand identity, image and personality in order to differentiate themselves in the growing nonprofit sector. In this study the two main concerns are, branding and increased competition between nonprofits. So the purpose for this study is to demonstrate the use of brand management to create distinction, and the challenges of merging branding methodologies into nonprofit organizations that operate in Albania. The data to conduct this paper were collected from the contemporary literature in this field and using a qualitative research through in depth interviews with managers of a nonprofit organization that operate in North Albania-"I CARE".Results demonstrate there is more informal than a formal process to evaluate its brand by nonprofit organization that operates in North Albania.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

Teaching Methods - Policy Possibilities for Public Discussion

The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington Univer... more The discussion on Teaching Methods was conducted in cooperation with The George Washington University’s Research Program in Social and Organizational Learning. Its participants included university teachers from Albania, Serbia, Croatia, Macedonia, and Georgia who had come to the United States under the auspices of the United States State Department’s Junior Faculty Development Program and the Open Society Institute to learn about new teaching methods that they might use in their classes back home. This report describes seven conceptual policy possibilities pertaining to the introduction of new teaching methods that the teachers explored, developed, articulated, and tested during the course of their discussions. It also describes their concerns about introducing new teaching methods in their countries; their thoughts about the actions that might be taken to implement each of the conceptual possibilities that they developed; and their thoughts about the practical consequences that tho...

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of the Socio-Economic Impact of Flooding in Shkodra Region, Albania

Assessment of the Socio-Economic Impact of Flooding in Shkodra Region, Albania

<p>In the recent years, flood situations have been experienced in some regi... more <p>In the recent years, flood situations have been experienced in some regions of Albania, but those that constitute a greater risk are those in the sub localities of Shkodra region. Fortunately, natural disaster are events that occur rarely, but the truth is that they have a high impact on the lives of many people, especially those belonging to developing countries such as Albania. They are associated with the loss of many lives, causing major impact on economic performance and social aspects as well as breaking, the chain of macro and microeconomic balances.</p><p>The purpose of this study is to identify the socio-economic impact of floods in the Shkodra region. Describing also the different categories of cost imposed by natural hazard as flood and the most effective way of economic recovery in the conditions of a small developing countries such as Albanian economy. This valuation will be carried out using secondary data such as; the macro and micro economic impact of these natural disasters, climate change, floods over the years in the Shkodra region, damage caused and management of these natural disasters. While primary data are provided through the qualitative method of structured interviews, designed to highlight the socio-economic impact of the flood on individuals and families in these areas, during 2018 flood.</p><p>Many catastrophes cannot be avoided, especially natural disasters, however their effects can be mitigated through good management. Over the last 30 years, investments in rehabilitating flood protection infrastructure have been minimal. Flood damage has been assessed mainly after events and detailed flood protection models have been prepared mainly based on emergency responses. Residents affected by flood experienced damage and loss, and while seasonal rains begin, they are worry and fear for loss property and livestock.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Key word; </strong>Flood, Climate Change, Economic Impact, Social Impact, Shkodra Region.</p><p> </p>

Research paper thumbnail of The Historical and Legal Development of Nonprofit Sector in Albania: Case Study - Red Cross Albania

Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, Dec 15, 2015

Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of ... more Regardless developed or in developing countries, the world has experienced a sudden expansion of the Nonprofit sector in recent decades. This happen because the Nonprofit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life and the rapid changes in environmental conditions. But the Philanthropic activities has been developed since in the ancient times. The first traces of philanthropy among Albanians have early roots and lie since the period of the Middle Ages. Philanthropy in Albania is strongly connected to social, economic and historical development of the country. The purpose of this study is to show the historical and legal development of nonprofit sector in Albania. The reason for historical treatment in this paper, is conducted in order to see the beginnings and development until our day of philanthropic activities of non-profit organizations in Albania. It is explored also the legal aspect of nonprofit sector in Albania. The data to conduct this paper were collected from the contemporary literature in this field. Also are provided from primary data, using qualitative research through in-depth interviews with managers of nonprofit organization "Red Cross Albania". The findings of this study show that: The creation and development process of non-profit organizations in Albania, dates back to the beginning of democracy and economic openness. Still it needs further improvement of the legal environment for NPOs in Albania.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovative Approach for Tourism Enterprise in Albania

European Journal of Service Management

The purpose of this study is to examine the current challenges and barriers to the Albania touris... more The purpose of this study is to examine the current challenges and barriers to the Albania tourism enterprises (such as; travel agencies, hotels and bar/restaurant) and attempts to reveal innovative approaches to cope with these recent challenges and barriers. Innovation is at the heart of any successful company so it is very worthy to discuss on the role that innovation plays in providing competitiveness. The data were collected from some tourism enterprises that operate in Albania, like travel agencies, hotels and bar/restaurant using a self completed questionnaire. The data gathered illustrate that the innovation in these enterprises is driven basically by the owner-manager ambition to improve the existing facilities and services to satisfy customers and develop a successful and reputable business. The research results can contributes to travel agencies, hotels and bar/ restaurants management both academically and practically.

Research paper thumbnail of The Mission-Based Management Practices in Non-Profit Organizations in Albania

European Scientific Journal, Jul 27, 2012

The non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life. Dozens of nonprof... more The non-profit sector is very important for the whole scheme of a country life. Dozens of nonprofit organizations actually operate in Albania. During the last 20 years there has been a significant increase in the number of non-profit organizations, because of the rapid changes in the environmental conditions. Regardless the increase in the number of these organizations, the economic challenges in the last decade had a huge influence in their ability to survive. For this reason the non-profit sector states the financial capacity as its greatest challenge. This new economy would give rise to a decline in the survival of many non-profit organizations, especially those that relied solely on government and other support. The purpose of this research is to examine whether or not the mission-based management practices suggested by Brinckerhoff had any relationship to revenues in non-profit organizations. Researchers such as Brinckerhoff postulated that non-profits must incorporate for-profit business practices into their organizational strategies (like strong marketing focus, etc) in order to adapt to the financial changes taking place in the non-profit sector. The data to conduct this study were collected from some non-profit organization in Albania using a questionnaire which they filled in by themselves. The survey questions focused