Abstract
With the growing popularity of DevOps culture among companies and the corresponding increase in Microservices architecture development—both known to boost productivity and efficiency in software development—an increasing number of organizations are aiming to integrate them. Implementing DevOps culture and best practices can be challenging, but it is increasingly important as software applications become more robust and complex, and performance is considered essential by end users. By following the Design Science Research methodology, this paper proposes an iterative framework that closely follows the recommended DevOps practices, validated with the assistance of expert interviews, for implementing DevOps practices into Microservices architecture software development, while also offering a series of tools that serve as a base guideline for anyone following this framework, in the form of a theoretical use case. Therefore, this paper provides organizations with a guideline for adapting DevOps and offers organizations already using this methodology a framework to potentially enhance their established practices.

Abstract
With the advent of Information and Communication Technologies in recent decades, organizations face several challenges today. Adopting Digital Transformation (DT) offers numerous opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to improve their efficiency and operations, reaching new markets, shareholders, and customers. However, there are potential risks associated with this process. With Digital Transformation (DT), the radius of connectivity and interconnection between devices and systems increases in Mozambique and worldwide, creating more significant space cyberattacks. As Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) connect to the digital world and move forward with adopting innovative digital technologies, they become more vulnerable to digital security risks. Hence, managing digital security risks effectively is crucial to realizing the benefits of Digital Transformation (DT). This position paper proposes to present the research work that will culminate in the proposal to develop a framework that fits Mozambican Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, which can help to assist Mozambican Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Digital Transformation (DT) process. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.

Abstract

Abstract
This study investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment, with a specific emphasis on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and cultural diversity, two dimensions frequently underrepresented in existing research. The objective is to evaluate the benefits, challenges, and strategies for the responsible adoption of AI in recruitment. To achieve this, a Multivocal Literature Review (MLR) was conducted, systematically synthesising peer-reviewed studies and grey literature published from 2018 onwards. Following Kitchenham’s systematic review guidelines and Garousi’s multivocal extensions, academic and practitioner perspectives were analysed to capture both theoretical insights and real-world practices. The findings indicate that AI can streamline recruitment processes, improve decision-making accuracy, and enhance candidate experience through tools such as résumé screening, predictive analytics, and generative AI applications. However, issues of algorithmic bias, limited transparency, data quality, regulatory compliance, and workforce scepticism persist, particularly in SMEs that face resource constraints. Although much of the available evidence reflects Western contexts, this review broadens the scope by integrating global perspectives and highlighting how cultural and regional factors influence AI acceptance. The novelty of this study lies in combining academic and industry evidence to propose actionable strategies— such as bias audits, explainable AI frameworks, and human-in-the-loop approaches—for more inclusive, sustainable, and globally relevant adoption of AI in recruitment. © 2025 by the authors. Licensee ESJ, Italy.

Abstract
Data governance plays a crucial role for organizations aiming to improve data quality, security, and compliance, yet research reveals ongoing challenges in implementation, maturity, and the practical effectiveness of current frameworks. Despite the availability of numerous concepts, models, and assessments, their actual impact and relevance remain fragmented and insufficiently explored. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) investigates how data governance frameworks influence maturity and identifies the factors that drive their effectiveness. Through the synthesis of existing research, the review aims to clarify the relationship between governance frameworks and maturity levels, highlight operational benefits, and examine implementation challenges, ultimately contributing to both academic understanding and practical advancements in data governance. Analyzing the most relevant studies, the review seeks to uncover the main governance mechanisms, frameworks, and trends shaping this field, with a central question in focus: How can a structured master data management framework improve data governance maturity?.