Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marco Montemari

Title: Sustainability, Artificial Intelligence and Human
Capital: Converging Paths for the Future of
Management Control Systems
Abstract: Sustainability, artificial intelligence, and human capital are becoming increasingly important for the evolution of management control systems. Sustainability invites organisations to go beyond a traditional view of performance, by including environmental and social aspects together with economic results. In parallel, artificial intelligence, especially in its generative forms, is progressively changing business processes and decision-making practices, also introducing new challenges in terms of ethics and regulation. In this scenario, human capital represents a fundamental connection point: it is through people?s competences and critical awareness that companies can integrate technological innovation with sustainability goals. Within this evolving landscape, management control systems are not only challenged to adapt, but are also called to support the integration of these forces in a coherent manner. This Special Issue of Management Control, developed from the sessions dedicated to the journal at the 2024 SIDREA National Conference, collects contributions that explore how these three elements, sometimes in combination and sometimes separately, are influencing the transformation of management control systems.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: Sustainability, Artificial intelligence, Digital transformation, Human capital, Management control systems, Evolution
Note: 
Pages:5-11
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Laura Broccardo
Author-Name: Elisa Ballesio
Author-Name: Daniele Giordino
Author-Name: Elisa Giacosa

Title: Guiding the Algorithm: Harnessing artificial
intelligence to nurture SMEs management
control systems
Abstract: The diffusion of artificial intelligence (AI) amongst organizations is profoundly revolutionizing business processes, such management control (MC) practices. However, the existing literature reveals a significant gap in understanding the contribution of AI-empowered tools to management control systems (MCSs), particularly within small and medium enterprises (SMEs), where these systems are often rudimental, informal, subjective, and short-period-oriented. To address this gap, the authors employed a mixed-methods approach, featuring an open-coding and thematic analysis of AI-generated answers to MC questions related the analysis of liquidity and profitability ratios from 37 Italian SMEs, as well as a qualitative investigation, with in-depth interviews with 15 respondents, to highlight their perceptions. Our investigation is informed by the social construction of technology theory, to explore the relevant social groups, interpretative flexibility, technological frames and patterns of closure related to AI-empowered tools and their contribution to SMEs? MCSs. We connect our findings to two frames, which highlight, on the one hand the positive contribution of such tools to SMEs? MCSs through accurate and comprehensive responses; on the other hand, a negative frame highlights concerns related to inconsistency and verbosity of the answers, which may affect trust and usability. This manuscript aims to provide an overview of the possible contribution of AI-empowered tools to SMEs? MCSs. Both scholars and practitioners can benefit from the theoretical and practical implications provided, which complements the limited number of studies in the field. Future research avenues are discussed.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:13-36
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
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Number: 2
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Annalisa Sentuti
Author-Name: Francesca Sgr?
Author-Name: Francesca Maria Cesaroni

Title: Artificial intelligence in accounting professions:
The young chartered accountants? experience
Abstract: This study investigates how young Chartered Accountants (CAs) approach AI in their professional practices. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with young Italian CAs. Findings highlight that AI adoption among CAs follows two main approaches: horizontal and vertical. The horizontal approach focuses on improving efficiency in routine or peripheral tasks (e.g., scheduling and content creation) through self-directed learning and experimentation with general-purpose AI tools. It represents an entry point into digital transformation, fostering AI literacy. The vertical approach applies AI to strategic, high-value tasks (e.g., forecasting and market analysis), requiring structured training in data analytics and predictive modelling. It reflects a more profound professional evolution, where AI becomes a ?cognitive assistant? for decision-making, strategic analysis, and innovation. While both approaches offer significant benefits, they also share risks and challenges, including data privacy issues and output reliability, and have a different impact on the CAs-Client relationships. The two approaches are also analysed using a functional and an evolutionary perspective.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:37-64
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78053&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1003
Number: 3
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gaia Bassani
Author-Name: Antonio Gitto
Author-Name: Stefania Servalli

Title: Blending results from existing literature reviews
on digital technologies in the Economia
Aziendale domain
Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation are currently the most influential forces in business and society. Although numerous studies have examined the impacts of various digital technologies in the field of Economia Aziendale, there is a need to consolidate and integrate these findings from different communities of practice. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview by conducting an integrative review of existing literature on digital technologies in Economia Aziendale, using Scopus and Web of Science databases to identify relevant studies. After careful selection, 25 literature reviews were analyzed. The analysis revealed limited connections among existing reviews, typically across different research communities, except within the AIS community. Some reviews cover multiple technologies using broad terminology, while others delve into specific technologies. Findings are organized within a comprehensive framework that delineates the antecedents and effects of digital technologies. Furthermore, the analysis identifies seven promising areas for future research exploration. This review aims to bridge gaps in the field by synthesizing knowledge across different communities, aiding scholars in contributing to broader discussions on digital technologies? impact. For practitioners, the findings provide valuable insights for navigating the complexities of digital transformation, while policy-makers can use this review to prioritize interventions and allocate resources effectively.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:65-91
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78054&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1004
Number: 4
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Franco Visani
Author-Name: Filippo Boccali

Title: Powering management control with Business
Analytics: An institutional perspective to
uncover the enablers of adoption
Abstract: Despite the widely recognized potential of Business Analytics (BA) in enhancing decision-making and boosting business performance, organizations struggle to extract strategically valuable insights from data. The focus tends to be on data collection, cleansing, and storage, with less attention given to evaluating organizational, human, and cultural factors that can impact the successful adoption and institutionalization of these approaches. In light of this, the present research aims to examine how Business Analytics (BA) is incorporated into decision-making processes and to comprehend the institutional factors that influence their effective implementation. The study applies the theoretical framework developed by terBogt and Scapens (2019) to understand how the general archetype of BA is institutionalised through varied situated rationalities.
The study utilizes an action research approach in a case where the company's objective was to determine how BA could assist in forecasting the costs of spare parts and maintenance. The findings show that the institutionalization of BA is linked to the presence of an "institutional entrepreneur" and institutional "conflicts", a deep understanding of the company's performance management model, an institutional environment ready for innovation, and an appropriate internal communication model.
This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the need for a holistic approach to integrate BA into management control systems, and offers practical recommendations for organizations seeking to leverage BA for performance management.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:93-120
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78055&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1005
Number: 5
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alessandra Tafuro
Author-Name: Chiara Colamartino
Author-Name: Giuseppe Dammacco
Author-Name: Pierluigi Toma

Title: Business Intelligence Systems as innovation tool
in the SMEs' Business Control Systems:
A Bibliometric Literature Review
Abstract: Digital technologies play a pivotal role in driving innovation within organizations and are increasingly essential for generating value in today?s evolving business environment. Among these technologies, Business Intelligence (BI) stands out by enhancing organizational control, reducing risks, and offering data-driven insights to support decision-making. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), BI tools can be especially valuable in systematically addressing control-related challenges. However, current research on the use of BI in SMEs remains limited and tends to focus only on specific areas such as management control, risk management, and auditing. This study introduces a novel, integrated approach to business control systems, combining data and perspectives from the three aforementioned areas. By utilizing BI tools, this method generates interconnected, actionable information that supports the long-term success of SMEs. To date, no bibliometric reviews have specifically explored the application of BI in SME contexts. This research addresses that gap by conducting a bibliometric analysis to highlight the diversity of methodologies used and their relevance to SMEs. The goal is to advance the field, bridge existing gaps in the literature, and encourage innovation in BI applications. Findings show strong SMEs interest in BI, particularly for managing risks, conducting audits, and monitoring organizational transformation.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:121-146
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78056&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1006
Number: 6
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Francesca Bartolacci
Author-Name: Roberto Del Gobbo
Author-Name: Michela Soverchia

Title: Understanding the adoption of sustainable
development practices in family businesses:
An exploratory case study
Abstract: The topic of sustainable development is becoming increasingly important for companies, both at the strategic and managerial levels, with important implications for reporting and disclosure. This is also true for family businesses, which represent the most common form of business organization in the world economy. This article aims to explore the influence of the high and long-standing family involvement in ownership and management on the adoption of sustainable development practices. To this aim, a qualitative methodology was employed through an in-depth single case study of a large family business located in central Italy.
The findings highlight the importance of a potential conflict of interest that may arise in family businesses, namely conflict between different generations of the same family. The decision-making process is typically centralized in such firms, and it is strongly influenced by the strategic orientation of the family members in control, whose approach toward sustainability is often shaped by generational traits such as age or tenure in their role. In the case study, the first-generation entrepreneur prioritized economic and financial sustainability, while the second generation demonstrated a greater focus on reputation management and responsiveness to stakeholder demands.
The case study also indicates that firm size facilitates the adoption of sustainable development practices, as large family businesses have greater financial capacity to invest in social and environmental initiatives as well as to engage external consultants to support the relative implementation process and the internal capacity building on sustainability-related issues.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:147-164
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78057&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1007
Number: 7
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Enzo Bivona
Author-Name: Giovanni Scir?

Title: The Dynamic Balanced Scorecard for
Sustainability: A novel framework to manage
unintended employee behaviors
in turbulent times
Abstract: The recent rise in environmental dynamism has intensified unintended employee behaviors, such as quiet quitting and great resignation, compelling organizations to adapt their management control systems (MCS) to remain competitive and resilient. Although the Sustainability Balanced Scorecard (SBSC) framework has demonstrated its effectiveness in managing such a level of complexity, its reliance on a static and linear perspective constrains its ability to address the dynamic nature of contemporary organizational challenges. To bridge this gap, this study proposes integrating the SBSC with the Dynamic Performance Management perspective. The resulting Dynamic Balanced Scorecard for Sustainability framework is designed to enable organizations to detect, monitor, and manage unintended employee behaviors, such as quiet quitting, within the context of uncertain and volatile environments. By incorporating dynamic cause-and-effect relationships and prioritizing non-financial performance indicators, this framework offers a more comprehensive approach to enhancing organizational resilience and sustainability.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:165-188
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78058&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Number: 8
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Template-type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Giacomo Gotti
Author-Name: Carla Morrone
Author-Name: Maria Teresa Bianchi
Author-Name: Salvatore Ferri

Title: Intellectual capital, profitability and corporate
governance: An analysis of Italian innovative
start-ups
Abstract: This paper aims to investigate the impact of intellectual capital on firm profitability within innovative start-ups in Italy, as a management control indicator, also analyzing the role of corporate governance in moderating this relationship. GLS and OLS regression analyses have been conducted on a 3-year panel by using two accounting-based indicators (return on assets and return on equity) as the dependent variables and the value-added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) as the main explanatory variable. The corporate governance role has been proxied by several interaction variables, such as directors? age, gender diversity, and managerial ownership. Findings suggest that intellectual capital has a positive effect on profitability, and corporate governance characteristics moderate this relationship. The study seeks to go a step forward in understanding the short-term success of start-ups by contributing to resource-based, resource-dependency, and agency theories. Important implications emerge for start-up founders to consider human resources as a driver of short-term success, paying particular attention to board heterogeneity and ownership structure.
Classification-JEL: 
Keywords: 
Note: 
Pages:189-215
Volume: 2025/1 Suppl.
Year: 2025
Issue:1 Suppl.
File-URL:http://www.francoangeli.it/riviste/Scheda_Rivista.aspx?IDArticolo=78059&Tipo=Articolo PDF
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Handle: RePEc:fan:MACOMA:v:html10.3280/MACO2025-001-S1009
Number: 9
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