School of Management (capstones)

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STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND ITS EFFECTIVENESS: THE CASE OF UKRAINIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS
(Manuscript, 2024) Turchak, Kostiantyn
Business associations in Ukraine use strategic communication to bring together local and international businesses and to create more favorable business conditions. This paper examines the strategies and the effectiveness of the strategic communication used by the most prominent business associations in Ukraine. The data was collected for five business associations operating in Ukraine over the period of 6 months during 2023. The research findings indicate that the communication strategies certainly differ across the associations. The Board Association is the most effective when it comes to gathering reactions and its patterns of strategic communication are similar to those of the American Chamber of Commerce. Moreover, the Post with Image is the most effective post format to gather reactions from the audience.
RESEARCH ON TOXIC LEADERSHIP IN RELATION TO LEADERSHIP STYLES
(2024) Haidin, Oleksandr
The purpose of this study is to comprehensively assess the landscape of toxic leadership both holistically and within specific industries. Additionally, it aims to scrutinize the interplay between established leadership styles and toxic leadership, thereby identifying requisite adaptations and practices susceptible to diminishing relevance in the dynamic business environment. The study's data were derived from survey results obtained from professionals across diverse industries. This research embarks on an extensive exploration of toxic leadership through a three-chapter framework. Chapter 1 conducts a comprehensive literature review using bibliometric and content analyses. Chapter 2 delineates empirical methodologies, providing detailed descriptions of scales such as Schmidt and MLQ. Chapter 3 unveils the outcomes of a study on leadership styles across industries and the relationships between toxic, transactional, and transformational leadership. Notably, the investigation reveals that Management by Exception exhibits associations with toxic traits, hinting at a potential dark side. This observation, coupled with the negative correlation between authoritarian traits and transformational leadership, underscores the significance of leaders striking a balance between decision-making capabilities and collaborative, open, and supportive practices. The study offers valuable insights into the evolving preferences of employees, emphasizing collaboration, understanding toxic dynamics, and fostering healthier workplace environments, particularly in the context of a shift toward servant leadership.
RISK ASSESSMENT BY DEVELOPMENT FINANCE INSTITUTIONS IN INVESTMENTS INVOLVING EMERGING AND DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
(2024) Parkhomchuk, Oleksii
This paper critically examines the role of Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) in managing risks associated with Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDTs). As these technologies increasingly permeate various sectors, this research identifies a significant gap in DFI policies and risk assessment methodologies. The study employs a methodological approach combining in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and comprehensive reviews of existing policy documents. These approaches reveal a pressing need for enhanced risk assessment frameworks within DFIs, particularly concerning the unique challenges posed by EDTs. The paper introduces the Technology Assessment Questionnaire (TAQ), a tool developed to better equip DFIs in evaluating EDT-related risks. This tool's application in assessing investment projects has demonstrated its utility in improving the understanding and management of technology-related risks. The research underscores the necessity for DFIs to adopt more robust and technology-specific risk assessment tools to balance the promotion of innovation with the responsible deployment of EDTs. The findings suggest that while DFIs recognize the importance of EDT risk, their current practices and policies need refinement to effectively address these emerging challenges.
THE EFFECT OF RUSSIAN WAR IN UKRAINE ON THE OIL MARKETS
(2024) Donchenko, Oleksandr
The intensification of the Russian war in Ukraine has been eroding global markets, disrupting established trade routes, and contributing to the inflation of food and energy prices worldwide. Since 2014, the war has exerted unbearable costs for Ukraine, and the brutal unprovoked escalation in Feb-ruary 2022 caused even more burden through the intolerable loss of lives, the unprecedented migra-tion crisis, the substantial budget deficit, and economic downturn. The Russian government has been predominantly financed through the export of fossil fuels. Therefore, it’s of the highest strategic im-portance for Ukraine to influence the aggressor’s ability to finance the war through the unification of international efforts. In this capstone project, we try to understand the effect of the Russian war escalation in Ukraine on energy markets. The analysis focuses on revealing the interdependencies among Russian oil spot, WTI and Brent futures prices. The series covers the period from July 12, 2018, to October 4, 2023. To summarize, our findings reveal the post-February 2022 change in the price mechanism of the international oil markets. In the aftermath of large-scale military operation, Russia has lost its stra-tegic position in terms of the “influence” on the oil futures markets, and the direction of “causality” has been lost or reshuffled towards Russian traders. These results underscore the importance of inter-national sanctions limiting the aggressor’s ability to continue the war. Considering the broader con-text, the implications of this research fortify Ukraine’s communication strategy in lobbying to limit Russia’s prospect on energy markets.
LEADERSHIP STYLES IN THE UKRAINIAN IT INDUSTRY
(2024) Kersov, Oleksii
This research investigates leadership styles in the Ukrainian IT industry, aiming to identify key leadership competencies and qualities and to compare these styles with those prevalent in other countries. The study is grounded in the context of Ukraine's rapidly evolving IT industry. The research methodology involved qualitative interviews with six Ukrainian IT professionals, representing diverse roles within the industry and gender balance. The interview questions, detailed in Appendix A, focused on exploring participants' perceptions of effective leadership, the impact of different leadership styles on team dynamics and professional growth, and the specific challenges and opportunities in the Ukrainian IT sector. The findings reveal that the most valued leadership competencies in the Ukrainian IT industry include support, trust, effective communication, ability to provide constructive feedback, fostering professional growth, and motivation. These competencies align closely with democratic and transformational leadership styles. Unique aspects identified include a strong emphasis on personalized support, bidirectional trust, and a blend of informal and formal communication. Contrarily, some negative traits noted were challenges in feedback mechanisms and communication efficacy. Comparatively, these leadership styles show notable similarities with transformational and democratic leadership traits identified in global IT industries. However, the Ukrainian context distinctively emphasizes personalized support and a balanced approach to technical and interpersonal skills. The research has significant implications for IT companies and individuals. For companies, understanding these key leadership competencies can guide hiring and development strategies. For leaders, it highlights essential qualities for effectiveness in the dynamic IT industry. The findings suggest a need for a flexible, context-sensitive approach to leadership in IT companies, considering the unique challenges and cultural nuances of the Ukrainian IT sector. Future research should expand on these findings using quantitative methods and a broader sample to generalize the understanding of leadership styles in the Ukrainian IT industry, and to explore the impact of these styles on organizational outcomes such as employee satisfaction and team productivity.
CULTURAL INFLUENCE ON BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS OF KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PRACTICES WITHIN MULTINATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
(2024) Vyshnyvetskyy, Ivan
Knowledge transfer is critical for multinational corporations to leverage expertise and achieve organizational success across geographically dispersed teams. However, cultural differences between countries can impede effective knowledge sharing. This quantitative study aimed to elucidate how national and corporate cultural dimensions influence knowledge transfer behaviors within multinational organizations. A survey was conducted with 59 employees from managerial and clinical research roles across six European countries in a multinational pharmaceutical firm. Participants completed validated instruments measuring cultural values based on the GLOBE model, and readiness for knowledge transfer initiatives based on the Theoretical Domains Framework. Results of correlation and regression analyses found that higher in-group collectivism, performance orientation, and lower power distance cultural values were associated with greater readiness for knowledge transfer. Interestingly, younger yet more experienced employees exhibited higher openness to knowledge initiatives. There were also notable correlations between specific cultural dimensions and behavioral domains influencing knowledge exchange. These findings suggest national and corporate culture fundamentally shape employees' readiness for knowledge transfer. The results have important implications for organizational leaders seeking to implement effective knowledge management strategies across global teams. Fostering collectivistic, egalitarian and achievement-oriented cultural values may pave the way for smoother knowledge transfer. Overall, a multifaceted approach considering both cultural and individual factors is key for optimizing knowledge flows within multinational corporations. The study makes a useful contribution by providing quantitative empirical evidence linking cultural values to knowledge exchange behaviors. However, limitations like the small sample size from one organization indicate findings may have restricted generalizability. Further research with larger, more diverse samples is critically needed to validate and extend the results across various cultural contexts.
THE INFLUENCE OF ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE ON THE JOB PERFORMANCE OF VIRTUAL TEAMS
(2024) Tadeyeva, Nataliya
The study investigated the correlation between organizational structure and job performance of virtual teams in the European ICT industry, with a particular emphasis on determining if certain organizational forms might enhance the performance of virtual teams. The research employed quantitative methodologies, namely a survey conducted among 170 members from 30 distinct teams in 20 organizations. The findings indicate that there is no noteworthy association between organizational structure and the success of virtual teams. Nevertheless, there was a clear correlation between a moderate degree of virtualization and improved performance. The results indicate that adopting a well-rounded strategy to both virtual and face-to-face interactions might be advantageous for virtual teams. Additional investigation might explore the intricacies of organizational hierarchies and the dynamics of virtual teams.
CHALLENGES OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP IN PUBLIC SERVICE IN UKRAINE: THE CASE OF THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
(2024) Onyiliogwu, Kateryna
This research study investigates the discrepancies between male and female leadership in Ukraine's public sector, focusing on the challenges that female leaders face in digital transformation. The Critical Incident Technique is used to analyse the experiences of ten senior female professionals working in the Ministry of Digital Transformation through semi-structured interviews. The study's key findings highlight a range of challenges that female leaders face, such as societal, organisational, interpersonal, and individual. This study fills a critical gap in the literature regarding women in leadership within the public sector, particularly in the digital transformation sphere. It contributes valuable insights to the broader discussion on gender diversity in Ukraine's public sector leadership.
PROSPECTS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE WORLD OF COMMUNITIES BOARD SIMULATION GAME AS AN ACCELERATIVE TRUST-BUILDING TOOL FOR LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN THE ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE
(2024) Tymchuk, Taras
The Capstone Project explores trust-building within the Ukrainian Armed Forces through the World of Communities Board Game. The primary research question focuses on the game's effectiveness in fostering trust among military personnel. The study collects and analyzes data from game sessions and participant feedback using a qualitative methodology. Findings reveal that the game significantly enhances interpersonal trust and team cohesion, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool in military training. The project's significance lies in its novel approach to trust-building, offering insights into practical applications for enhancing team dynamics in military settings.
CHALLENGES OF TRANSFERRING BUSINESS PRACTICES: THE CASE OF “ECOSERVICE 2022” AND “BAV”
(2024) Zhuravel, Taras
This study analyzed the challenges of transferring business practices by conducting a case study involving two companies, examining the practical application of cross-cultural knowledge transfer and evaluating its effectiveness using the Kirkpatrick model. The significance of this research lies in its practical implications for organizations aiming to transfer business practices across different cultural contexts. The paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering specific insights into the transfer of business practices from BAV to Ecoservice. By employing the Kirkpatrick model, the research provides valuable recommendations for fostering successful transfer of business practices in a globalized world.
MANAGERIAL PRACTICES IN PERFORMANCE MONITORING AND DEVELOPMENT APPROACHES IN UKRAINIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
(2024) Povar, Mykola
This capstone project was dedicated to managerial practices in performance monitoring and development approaches in Ukrainian small and medium enterprises. It addressed the critical intersection of performance monitoring and managerial practices in the unique context of Ukrainian organizations, relying on diverse data sources, including reputable consulting firms, and surveys conducted by the World Bank. Drawing on the Goal Setting Theory and the Balanced Scorecard Framework, the project developed a tailored performance monitoring approach for Ukrainian organizations, considering business size nuances. The main research methods applied were literature review and surveys. To support the conclusions, the specific data set was used, collected in the course of the World Bank Enterprise Survey (ES), conducted in 2013 and 2019. It has covered Ukrainian top managers and business owners, commenting on predefined questions. The study resulted in tailored recommendations, emphasizing the importance of a customized solution, given the distinct cultural, legal, and economic backdrop of Ukraine, underscoring the pivotal role of team-centric performance management. For SMEs, the research highlighted the need to define essential metrics composed in a balanced way. Collaboration, open communication, and collective responsibility emerged as key themes for enhancing team synergy and fostering a positive organizational culture. Blending traditional methods with technology-driven practices and urging SMEs to consider resource constraints, cultural shifts, and the evolving nature of performance monitoring were advised as game changers. In conclusion, the research aspired to be a catalyst for positive change in the managerial practices of Ukrainian organizations. By providing context-specific recommendations, it aimed to elevate overall performance, foster transparency and accountability, and empower Ukrainian SMEs to navigate the evolving business environment successfully.
MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK FOR TRANSFORMING DIPLOMATIC SERVICE IN UKRAINE: ORGANIZATIONAL CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS
(Manuscript, 2025) Bodzhek, Elina
This research aims to examine challenges and opportunities within Ukraine's classical diplomatic framework through the lens of modern management theory and approaches. The study analyzes organizational transformation needs across multiple dimensions: strategic planning, operational efficiency, talent management, and performance optimization. Main challenges identified are Institutional Structure, Digital Transformation, Human Resources Development, Economic Diplomacy Enablers, and Cultural Diplomacy processes. Through systematic analysis the research develops a comprehensive management framework for reforming diplomatic services to meet contemporary global challenges and the post-2022 geopolitical reality.
STRATEGIC MARKET ENTRY IN A TRANSFORMING ENERGY SECTOR: THE CASE OF LATVIAN NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY
(Manuscript, 2025) Boiko, Kostiantyn
This paper examines how new market entrants can effectively enter Latvia’s natural gas sector in the wake of its recent full liberalization and the region’s shift away from Russian gas imports. By integrating Porter’s value chain framework (firm-level analysis) with Gereffi’s global value chain (industry-level perspective), the study identifies key entry strategies—including securing long-term LNG capacities, leveraging the Inčukalns Underground Gas Storage (UGS), and offering innovative digital or green retail services. Findings suggest that while state-monopoly elements in transmission and distribution remain, the fully liberalized retail sector and diversified LNG infrastructure offer compelling opportunities for both large multinational firms and smaller niche suppliers. Ultimately, these insights contribute to ongoing discussions about Europe’s energy security, diversification, and the broader Baltic region’s path toward sustainable and resilient gas markets. Future research may explore biomethane and hydrogen integration.
EFFECTIVE NEGOTIATION STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECTS IN THE RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR: THE CASE OF DTEK RENEWABLES
(Manuscript, 2025) Boiko, Serhii
This study examines effective negotiation strategies for implementing renewable energy projects, using DTEK Renewables as a case study. The research explores how negotiation processes shape project outcomes, focusing on stakeholder collaboration, transparency, and conflict resolution. The primary research question investigates the negotiation strategies contributing to project success in a complex, multilateral setting. Participants included project managers, investors, government officials, and community representatives engaged in DTEK Renewables' initiatives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, yielding qualitative data analyzed through thematic analysis. Key themes identified include transparency, trust-building, strategy adaptation, and conflict management. Results highlight that transparency in sharing project information fosters trust among stakeholders. Trust enables flexibility in adapting negotiation strategies to various stakeholder needs. Conflict management, through facilitation and mediation, minimizes opposition and promotes mutually beneficial agreements. These interconnected elements form a "negotiation value chain" leading to successful outcomes. Data analysis underscores the importance of tailoring negotiation approaches to context-specific factors, such as cultural nuances and regulatory environments. While the study focuses on Ukraine, findings have broader implications for global renewable energy projects. Conclusions advocate for integrating transparency, trust, and context-sensitive strategies in project negotiations. Practical recommendations include public consultations, creating feedback mechanisms, and engaging independent mediators. Future research could quantify the impact of these strategies and compare them across international contexts to assess their universality.
PECULIARITIES OF PREFERENCES AND MOTIVATION OF GENERATION Z. REPRESENTATIVES IN THE LABOR MARKET IN UKRAINE: STRATEGIES FOR EMPLOYEE RETENTION
(Manuscript, 2025) Burkova, Kateryna
The research is dedicated to the peculiarities of Generation Z's preferences and motivations in the Ukrainian labor market and strategies for retaining them in companies. Its goal was to identify the most effective methods of motivation for long-term cooperation with young employees. A combined methodology was used, including a literature analysis and a survey of 13 HR managers of large companies and 212 representatives of Generation Z aged 19-27. The survey was conducted online via a Google form to collect quantitative and qualitative data on motivational factors. The survey results showed that tangible methods of motivation remain important for attracting young employees, but do not guarantee long-term loyalty. Intangible methods, such as career development opportunities, flexible working hours, a strong corporate culture, and recognition of achievements, are crucial in driving job satisfaction and reducing employee turnover. Generation Z is characterized by values focused on work meaningfulness, technological integration, and company ethics, which influence their choice of employer. The data analysis showed that on average, young workers change jobs about every 14 months. The main reasons for leaving are insufficient salary and lack of professional development opportunities. At the same time, intangible methods, such as mentoring and support for work-life balance, significantly increase employee loyalty. The study's findings emphasize the importance of combining tangible and intangible approaches to motivation for effective retention of Generation Z employees.
GLOBAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN THE UKRAINIAN ART MARKET BASED ON GLOBAL INSIGHTS
(Manuscript, 2025) Diukariev, Tymofii
The Ukrainian art market is a unique example of how markets can develop. It has much potential but is also tricky because the rules and insufficient information are unclear. This research examines how the art market management rules can be changed to address these problems. Various methods are used to determine what stops the market from growing. The study interviews and examines important people in the art world and uses additional markets to determine what can be done. The research concludes with a comprehensive framework for market development, proposing specific regulatory reforms, financial innovations, and educational initiatives. These recommendations emphasize the importance of aligning with international standards while preserving Ukraine's unique cultural heritage. Key proposed interventions include the modernization of cultural legislation, the establishment of professional certification systems, the introduction of tax incentives for art purchases, and the development of specialized art financing instruments. This study contributes to academic discourse on emerging art markets and provides practical guidance for stakeholders seeking to enhance the global competitiveness of the Ukrainian art market.
ORGANIZATIONAL RESILIENCE AND OPERATIONAL CONTINUITY DURING CRISIS: A STUDY OF UKRAINE
(Manuscript, 2025) Vynnychenko, Ivan
This research examines organizational resilience and operational continuity within humanitarian, developmental, and civil society organizations operating in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. The study addresses the central research question: how do leadership effectiveness, adaptive capacity, and resource management contribute to sustaining organizational operations amidst crises? A structured survey collected responses from 104 participants, including program/project managers, senior management, and technical advisors, representing international, local, and government organizations across diverse sectors. The quantitative methodology utilized the Resilience Capacity Index (RCI) to measure the independent variables (leadership effectiveness, adaptive capacity, and resource management) and the dependent variable (operational continuity). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, reliability testing using Cronbach’s Alpha, correlation analysis, and multiple regression modeling. Rigorous validation tests, including multicollinearity checks, normality of residuals, homoscedasticity tests, and outlier detection, confirmed the robustness of the findings. Key findings reveal that resource management is the most significant predictor of operational continuity, followed by leadership effectiveness, while adaptive capacity showed a weaker, non-significant impact in the regression model despite its positive correlation with operational continuity. Demographic insights indicate that senior management roles correlate with higher leadership scores, while larger organizations exhibit stronger operational continuity due to robust resource systems. National-level organizations demonstrate greater adaptive capacity, managing widespread operations effectively. The study concludes that investments in resource management systems and fostering adaptive practices are pivotal for organizational resilience. Findings emphasize the importance of structured resource allocation, crisis-responsive leadership, and adaptability in ensuring sustained operations during crises. The research has significant implications for policy and practice, offering actionable strategies for enhancing operational effectiveness in crisis settings. Future research should explore qualitative dimensions to deepen the understanding of resilience-building processes and evaluate the longitudinal impacts of these practices in conflict-affected regions.
DECISION-MAKING AND RISK MANAGEMENT IN THE UKRAINIAN VENTURE CAPITAL ECOSYSTEM DURING WARTIME
(Manuscript, 2025) Dumych, Taras
Venture capital has played a significant role not only in the success of individual companies and industries but also in the economic success of entire countries, as evidenced by the experience of the United States. This study explores the decision-making and risk management strategies employed by venture capital firms within Ukraine's venture capital ecosystem. Specifically, it examines the impact of war on the functioning of this ecosystem and its players. The analysis draws on a combination of literature focused on venture capital and risk management, as well as practical insights gathered from survey interviews conducted with ten top executives of venture capital firms. By integrating both theoretical and practical perspectives, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
DEVELOPING A GO-TO-MARKET STRATEGY FOR A UKRAINIAN FURNITURE MANUFACTURER
(Manuscript, 2025) Chernii, Volodymyr
This Capstone project focuses on developing a go-to-market strategy for a Ukrainian furniture manufacturer seeking to enter the niche market of furniture adapted to the needs of people with functional disorders. Driven by increasing demand, particularly in the context of post-war rehabilitation for veterans, the project aims to explore market opportunities, understand customer needs, and recommend actionable steps for market entry. The research employs a combination of qualitative methods (expert interviews) and environmental analyses (PESTEL and Porter’s Five Forces) to assess the external and micro environmental factors influencing the Ukrainian furniture industry overall. Insights from experts in universal design, rehabilitation therapy, and inclusivity highlight critical needs, such as ergonomic, modular, and height-adjustable furniture that balances functionality and aesthetics. The market for adaptive furniture in Ukraine remains underdeveloped, creating opportunities for first-movers. Potential customers in B2C include individuals with functional disorders and members of their households, while the B2B segment encompasses rehabilitation centers, public spaces, and NGOs. Critical product features include customizable designs to meet specific needs, affordability to overcome market barriers, and aesthetics to encourage adoption. The project concludes with a set of strategic recommendations to position the Client as a leader in inclusive furniture design, which could be achieved through cost-efficient product development, customer-centric solutions tested in rehabilitation centers, and close collaboration with experts in the field. Further steps are associated with profiling consumers and their needs through online surveys, developing MVPs, and testing these in focus groups.
MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN UKRAINE’S ENERGY SECTOR: PATHWAYS TO ENHANCED ENERGY RESILIENCE
(Manuscript, 2025) Diatlov, Pavlo
The transition towards decentralized energy systems has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly as the need for energy resilience increases due to geopolitical instability. This Capstone Project examines the potential of the UHEVsA (Ukraine, Home, Electric Vehicles, and Apartment) model as a solution to enhance energy security in Ukraine, particularly in scenarios where centralized energy infrastructure is compromised. The research focuses on the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, alongside energy storage systems and electric vehicles (EVs) as mobile energy banks. The project evaluates the technical feasibility, economic viability, and regulatory challenges of implementing UHEVsA at the household level, proposing strategies for its scalability and adaptability in urban and rural settings. Key findings indicate that while the upfront investment for renewable energy systems, EVs, and energy storage is substantial, the long-term benefits—such as energy independence, lower operational costs, and resilience during power outages—make UHEVsA a promising alternative to traditional grid systems. The research also highlights several regulatory hurdles in Ukraine, including outdated policies that hinder the integration of decentralized energy systems and the adoption of electric vehicles. The study suggests that targeted policy updates, incentives for renewable energy adoption, and support for energy storage solutions are essential for the widespread implementation of the UHEVsA model. Ultimately, this project presents a comprehensive analysis of UHEVsA's potential to stabilize Ukraine's energy supply during crises and its broader application as a sustainable energy solution for decentralized networks. Future research is recommended to focus on optimizing system integration, exploring alternative energy storage technologies, and assessing the social and economic impacts of decentralized energy solutions.

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