This study aimed to identify financial and cash flow risks associated with SMEs and investigated how managers perceived these risks using the analytical hierarchical process (AHP). Accordingly, a three-level decision model was structured using two criteria, probability and consequences, and a list of six different types of risks as decision alternatives. Data were collected by a survey questionnaire from SME managers/owners and analyzed in accordance with the AHP method. The results show that the priority weight for risk criteria was 52% for probability and 48% for consequences. Further, with an average weight of 18.8%, the risk of an increase in bank charges ranked as the highest type of risk faced by SMEs. However, the risk of low or no profits was ranked as the lowest with an average weight of 13.4%. This study is one of the few, if not the first, to investigate SME managers’ perceptions using an AHP method and to provide insightful information on how SME managers/owners perceived various financial and cash flow risks. The study results may support the use of the AHP method in understanding managers’ perceptions and attitudes toward various types of risks associated with SMEs.

This research paper explores the electronic government adoption and implementation level by local government entities in Sudan. It examines how local governments have embraced and integrated digital technologies, platforms, and services using Layne and Lee four stages model. The study employed a content analysis method to collect data from 18 official websites of Sudanese local government entities. The findings suggest that while local e-government initiatives are still in the informative stages, many governments plan to develop more sophisticated e-government offerings. The key barriers and challenges to adopt and implement e-government identified in the research include technological barriers, lack of resources, digital divide, and legal and regulatory obstacles.

This study aims to develop a mathematical model for evaluating the objective abilities needed for negotiation and to provide a tool that companies can use to select a negotiation team. The model was constructed using a Likert pentagonal scale, where numbers from 5 to 1 represented the level of agreement or disagreement, and seven objective abilities were considered, including analytical ability, economic knowledge, legal knowledge, linguistic ability, psychological understanding, normative understanding, and general knowledge. The model was tested using a structured interview (sixteen interviews) with experts and specialists in the construction industry as a case study and then validated by quantitative data analysis method using first-order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with a sample of consultants (220 responses) from companies and offices related to the construction sector. The study found that the model is valid for use in the construction industry and can be useful for selecting negotiators. The developed model can be used, adapted, and modified according to the needs of different negotiation situations. This research is the first of its kind to develop a mathematical model for evaluating negotiating abilities and can be used as a model for similar research studies.