IABS Inaugural Journal

Welcome to the Independent Association of Business Scholars Proceedings Allow me to be the first to welcome you to the Independent Association of Business Scholars’ inaugural publication. Within these pages, you will find a wealth of information that has been painstakingly presented by a number of business authors and scholars. In addition, each contribution to these proceedings has been peer-reviewed and reviewed by additional business scholars. It is the hope of the Independent Association of Business Scholars (IABS) that these proceedings will be food for thought for your business practice as well as meet several lofty purposes within the field of business.

Academic discourse naturally creates friction and conflict. The lofty goal of such conflict is to further advances in the field. Moreover, it is important to have discussions on the concepts and ideas posited in our field. This discussion will be productive if, and only if, three main criteria are met.

1. A free exchange of ideas can only be present if the barrier to publication is at a level that will allow for discussion and disagreement. Omitting conflicting thought and suppressing a free exchange of ideas does nothing but stall the academic discourse which is necessary within our field. For this reason, IABS promotes and encourages submissions relating to previous articles and thoughts. Whether to bolster or disagree, such submissions will promote a free exchange of ideas.

2. It is imperative that the discourse be civil and based on a factual exchange of thoughts and ideas. There is no room for incivility. Rather, a good faith effort is assumed and required of all who contribute to this publication. Discussion is at its heart a free exchange of ideas. However, if not done correctly, the discussion will naturally be stifled and halted. Such behavior cannot and will not be tolerated within this forum.

3. A plethora of fields must be welcomed to this discussion. Far too often scholars only publish in journals catering to their v specific fields. These journals are inherently edited and run by individuals within that same field. This flaw could lead to a group think mentality and stifle a free exchange of ideas.

For this purpose, IABS welcomes scholars from every field that can even remotely be related to business. The diversity of thought that can be fostered by contributions from a multitude of fields cannot be understated. This diversity of thought and backgrounds will enrich our discussion and further contribute to the impact of these proceedings.

As this journal grows and IABS takes on new members it is the goal of this organization to provide increased opportunities for publication and presentation. In addition to this journal, it is hoped that conferences and other opportunities will come about from this endeavor thus continuing to further goals outlined here as well as increase the prestige, impact, and scope of this project.

IABS is keenly aware that such improvement will have a far-reaching benefit for businesses, our business practitioners, and the overall success of the economy. In short, “A rising tide raises all boats.” This calling has led to this endeavor and it is hoped that, in no small way, this publication contributes to these successes. In closing, I would like to once again welcome you to the inaugural publication of these proceedings. It is hoped that you will enjoy the contents of this journal and will find them worthy of consideration for your personal and professional practice. Further, it is also hoped that you will consider sharing your thoughts, ideas, research, and theories in future IABS publications. I would like to personally wish you well in your current and future endeavors. May you find your personal version of success!
Brian A. Iannucci, Ph.D.
Editor, Contributor, and Member Independent Association of Business Scholars