Professor Sukanlaya Sawang is a behavioural scientist who explores how innovation, technology, and organisational dynamics shape the success of small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs — with a strong emphasis on workplace well-being and the role of AI in modern work.
Professor
Sukanlaya Sawang
Sukanlaya Sawang, Jian Zhao, Zimu Xu
Can Going Digital Boost Profits? Here’s What the Research Says.
In today’s tech-driven world, businesses are racing to go digital — but does digital transformation really lead to profit? This study says: Yes — but only if it’s done right. By examining over 400 companies, researchers found that just having new technology isn’t enough. The real secret is digital maturity — how well a company integrates digital tools into its daily operations — and strategic alignment, meaning the tech must support the company’s goals.
Firms that scored high on both saw significant profit growth. Those that rushed into tech without a plan? Not so much.
Bottom line: Going digital can pay off, but only when strategy and tech move hand in hand....
Examining the influence of customers, suppliers, and regulators on environmental practices of SMEs: Evidence from the United Arab Emirates
Sukanlaya Sawang, Poh Yen Ng, Robbert Anton Kivits, Jacinta Dsilva, Jasmina Locke
How Green Is Business in the UAE? This Study Has Answers.
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) make up the heart of the UAE economy — but how green are they really? This study explores who’s driving them to adopt eco-friendly practices. The answer? Government regulations are the biggest push, even more than customer demand or pressure from suppliers.
But here’s the twist: when regulations are strong, they make other influences (like customer expectations) even more powerful. It’s a chain reaction that gets businesses to act more sustainably. With nearly 150 business leaders surveyed, the study highlights how rules, relationships, and reputations all combine to shape a greener future. The message is clear: smart policies matter, and when paired with public and industry pressure, they can drive real change....
Sukanlaya Sawang, Safiya Mukhtar Alshibani, Poh Yen Ng
What Kind of Entrepreneur Are You? Meet the Lions, Bees, and Chameleons.
This study dives into how personality shapes an entrepreneur’s path to success—and their well-being along the way. After analyzing data from nearly 29,000 entrepreneurs, researchers uncovered three distinct types: Lions, who lead with drive and confidence but carry the weight of stress.
Bees, who thrive in teams and find fulfillment through collaboration. And Chameleons, who adapt and compete with sharp strategy, but sometimes at the cost of personal balance. Each style brings unique strengths—and challenges. Understanding these differences can help entrepreneurs grow smarter and guide the kind of support that fuels both business performance and personal well-being....
RECENT PUBLICATIONS
MY VISION
“Innovation, entrepreneurship, and wellbeing don’t exist in silos — they move together in a dynamic dance that drives sustainable success. By investing in research across these areas, we unlock the potential not only for long-term prosperity and resilience, but also for building sustainable, climate-conscious communities equipped for the future.” - Sukanlaya Sawang
BIO
Sukanlaya is a researcher and educator exploring how innovation and psychology can be applied to real-world challenges. She has worked with universities, businesses, and communities across Asia, Australia, the UK, and the US, with a focus on turning research into practical solutions. Her work is driven by a commitment to making complex ideas accessible and helping people lead, adapt, and improve systems for the future.
Global Impact
Her work delivers interdisciplinary solutions that connect academia, industry, and communities for lasting societal benefit.
Teaching Excellence
With 15+ years in higher education, Sukanlaya fosters inclusive learning environments that engage and empower diverse student cohorts.
Research & Grants
Sukanlaya has secured over £1.5 million in funding for projects spanning AI, entrepreneurial ecosystems, wellbeing tourism, and sustainable development.
Industry Engagement
She partners with businesses and policymakers to drive innovation, support growth, and apply research in real-world settings.
