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21 – 30 of over 16000Pratima Verma and R.R.K. Sharma
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the linkages among different employee benefits, business strategies and organizational cultures. The manufacturing and service sectors…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the linkages among different employee benefits, business strategies and organizational cultures. The manufacturing and service sectors in the conglomerate industry are investigated.
Design/methodology/approach
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) are used for the statistical verification of the hypotheses, whereas Levene’s test and Wilk–Shapiro tests are conducted to verify the assumptions of ANOVA.
Findings
The results reported indicate that the social class benefits (SCB) and long-term benefits (LTB) are high in defenders as compared to prospectors and innovators, whereas group incentive schemes (GIS) are lower in the defender, and power distance and uncertainty avoidance are higher in the defender as compared to prospector and innovator.
Practical implications
This paper highlights that if mismatch among the employee benefits, strategy and culture occurs, then it becomes a hurdle to the good performance of organization and employee. The proposed model focuses on the effective coherence among the strategy, culture and benefits for leveraging the business processes. This research along with enriching the already existing literature would also act as a guidelines to practitioners implementing organizational change and development and to the academicians for extending the research in this area.
Originality/value
It has been established in the study that employee benefits (SCB, LTB, GIS and result-oriented benefits) are completely different for innovators, defenders and prospectors for conglomerate firms.
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The purpose of this study is to investigate whether question and keyword‐format queries are more successfully processed by search engines encouraging answers to searching and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether question and keyword‐format queries are more successfully processed by search engines encouraging answers to searching and keyword‐format querying, respectively. This study aims to investigate whether web user characteristics and choice of search engine affects the relevancy scores and precision of the results.
Design/methodology/approach
The results of two search engines, Google and AskJeeves, were compared for question and keyword‐format queries. It was observed that AskJeeves was slightly more successful in processing question‐format queries, but this finding was not statistically supported. However, Google provided results on keyword‐format queries and the entire set of queries, which were statistically superior to those of AskJeeves.
Findings
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the age of web user is not as affective on the relevancy score and precision of results as other factors. Interactions of the main factors were also affective on the relevancy scores and precision, meaning that the different combinations of various factors cause a synergy in terms of relevancy scores and precision.
Research limitations/implications
This was a preliminary work on the effect of user characteristics on comprehension and evaluation of search query results. Future work includes expanding this study to include more web user characteristics, more levels of the web user characteristics, and inclusion of more search engines.
Originality/value
The findings of this study provide statistical proof for the relationship between the characteristics of web users, choice of search engine and the relevancy scores and precision of search results.
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Fatima Zohra Derdour, Mohamed Kezzar, Ouafae Bennis and Lakhdar Khochmane
This paper aims to determine the rational operating regime of a rotary percussive drilling machine under optimal conditions.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to determine the rational operating regime of a rotary percussive drilling machine under optimal conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
An orthogonal array of Taguchi, signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, ANOVA Pareto analysis and regression analysis are used to investigate the effect of drilling operational factors on the penetration rate. A series of experiments based on orthogonal arrays L27 was carried out, and the results were collected and analyzed using the statistical software Minitab.
Findings
The statistical analysis (ANOVA Pareto) of the results showed that among all setting parameters, air pressure is the most essential element that affects the penetration rate. The rational operating regime of the rotary percussive drilling machine was determined with optimum air pressure values of 17 bar (Level 3), rotation speed of 60 rpm (Level 3) and a thrust of 825 kgf (Level 2), which maximize the penetration rate. A quadratic regression model was developed for the penetration rate. The predicted values are compared with the experimental data and are considered to be in good agreement.
Originality/value
The study uses the orthogonal array of Taguchi, S/N ratio, ANOVA Pareto analysis and regression analysis to investigate the effect of drilling operational factors on the penetration rate.
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Gillian Armstrong, Heather McIlveen and Peter O'Donoghue
Much sensory research focuses on an initial analysis of sensory descriptor data followed by a principal component analysis (PCA) of the sensory descriptors. This paper illustrates…
Abstract
Much sensory research focuses on an initial analysis of sensory descriptor data followed by a principal component analysis (PCA) of the sensory descriptors. This paper illustrates an alternative approach of conducting PCA and then applying analysis of variance (ANOVA) to the extracted principal components. The approach is applied to data from a case study quantifying the sensory characteristics of a sous vide vegetable product during storage. In the case study, 11 out of 18 descriptors were significantly influenced by product. Using the alternative approach, however, three out of six principal components were significantly influenced by product. The alternative approach, therefore, provided a more concise presentation of results and one that was consistent with the analysis of the original descriptors. It is hoped that this approach could improve interpretation and subsequent communication of sensory profiling results and help to bridge the gap between core and wider product development activities.
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Modesto De Luca, Raffaele Campo and Rosalind Lee
A considerable body of literature has shown how the perception of flavor is the result of a multi-sensory combination. Starting with this premise, this paper aims to verify how…
Abstract
Purpose
A considerable body of literature has shown how the perception of flavor is the result of a multi-sensory combination. Starting with this premise, this paper aims to verify how music impacts on wine flavor.
Design/methodology/approach
An experiment was organized as follows: it focuses on the influence of music on the taste of red and white wine, in particular, two kinds of music were transmitted, namely, classical and pop. Participants had to listen to music through headphones tasting, in the meanwhile, 40 mL of wine (an merlot and a chardonnay). After this experience, they had to give an evaluation about some attributes of the wine. The attributes to be evaluated were: sparkling, refreshing, delicate, refined, sweet, sour, alcoholic and pleasant. Data were finally analyzed by using the ANOVA model.
Findings
They highlight that a chardonnay is perceived to be more delicate and sweeter if accompanied by a classical music background; in the case of Merlot, on the other hand, it is perceived as less alcohol when high-volume pop music is transmitted. Implications are finally discussed.
Originality/value
The influence of hearing on taste is underestimated in the literature. The originality of this manuscript consists of comparing two different music genders and their impact on wine consumers in an Italian context. Moreover, the analysis of marketing implications represents a novelty for these kind of studies.
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This research was originally conducted as the author’s dissertation work at the Ohio University. The author explored LibQUAL+ results from two separate institutions with different…
Abstract
Purpose
This research was originally conducted as the author’s dissertation work at the Ohio University. The author explored LibQUAL+ results from two separate institutions with different Carnegie Classifications, and therefore different academic missions, to look for relationships between patron types, Carnegie Classifications, and scores across the minimum, perceived, and desired questions of the information control (IC) component of the LibQUAL+ instrument. By comparing results from a library affiliated with a research institution to one from a campus more focused on teaching and learning, a school going through the shift from one focus to another would be better able to anticipate changes related to patron needs. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
A three-way between-within subjects ANOVA was conducted. The first between-subjects variable was patron type, which included undergraduate, graduate, and faculty. The second between-subjects variable was Carnegie Classification, which included the two classifications of RU_H and Master’s_M. The within-subjects variable had three levels, which in this case functioned as three dependent variables made up of the mean or composite score of the combined eight questions included in the IC portion of LibQUAL+, broken in the three categories of minimum, perceived, and desired. An additional breakdown shows that 499 were undergraduate students, 137 were graduate students, and 197 were faculty.
Findings
The results of the study indicated that Carnegie Classification has no significant effect on how undergraduate, graduate, and faculty respond to the three levels of the IC component of the LibQUAL+ survey. As other studies have shown however, there were significant differences with regard to patron-level responses. For a more comprehensive look at all seven research questions and their answers, please see the complete dissertation here: http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1354726349
Research limitations/implications
This study is limited in size and scope because of the limitations of the method of analysis. A broader study using the same analysis would be difficult because of the impracticality of adding, for example, additional Carnegie Classifications into the equation. A significant limitation is that LibQUAL+ results are not typically compared across institutions as the respondents are commenting on separate collections and services. This was minimized by choosing institutions that belong to the same very strong consortial system and have an interlibrary loan system in place which essentially creates one enormous collection for all to share.
Practical implications
Perhaps more significant than the findings themselves is the method of analysis used, as it is one that while complicated statistically, is relatively easy to explain by using the split-plot studies conducted by R.A. Fisher on which the analysis is based as a starting point. The author have found that conceptually it is easier for those without a statistical background to relate to images of potato fields with varying types of potatoes and fertilizer than Carnegie Classifications, patron types, and the multi-level components of LibQUAL+ results.
Originality/value
It would be difficult to speak to the originality of the proposal, but the author would say that a possible outcome would be a discussion of the value of translatable results that speak to broader audiences, particularly those outside library settings. Methods of analysis that can be explained in ways that do not involve the word ANOVA have value and will add to a stronger understanding of research questions and results by decision makers.
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Mahmut Kayar, Suleyman Ilker Mistik and Deniz Inan
– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors effecting ultrasonic seam tensile properties.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors effecting ultrasonic seam tensile properties.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, 100 percent polypropylene and 100 percent polyester spunbond and meltblown nonwoven fabrics were sewn by using ultrasonic sewing machine with different rollers which have two, three and four rows. Seam tensile properties of the sewn nonwoven fabrics were investigated. Four-Level Nested Anova Design was applied to the data by using Minitab 15 software program.
Findings
Higher seam strength values were obtained by using four rows roller, PP fiber, spunbond fabric and 50 g/m2 fabric area density for all nonwoven fabrics. Statistical significance was found between fabric area density, roller rows and seam tensile strength properties and between fabric type, roller rows and seam elongation at break values.
Originality/value
When the authors look at the studies related to ultrasonic sewing, several researchers studied on welding parameters of ultrasonic sewing but very limited studies were performed on assembling of nonwoven fabrics with ultrasonic sewing. Therefore effect of production methods of nonwoven fabrics on the properties of ultrasonic sewing such as seam strength and elongation at break should be investigated.
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The purpose of this research is to study the effect of softener treatment on plain jersey fabrics with properties made of cotton and spandex yarn.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research is to study the effect of softener treatment on plain jersey fabrics with properties made of cotton and spandex yarn.
Design/methodology/approach
Samples with 100 percent cotton yarns, spandex yarns in alternating courses (half plating) and spandex yarns in every courses (full plating) were produced on a circular knitting machine where the two latter cases were produced at five different levels of spandex extension. After the dyeing process, fabrics were treated with fabric softener using two softener types (cationic and silicon) and all type two concentrations (3 percent, 6 percent) to evaluate the most appropriate softener type and concentration on fabric friction force, sewing needle penetration force and weight loss percent under different levels of spandex extension.
Findings
Results showed that silicon softener treatment results in high decreases in fabric sewing needle penetrating force, friction force and while treatment with cationic softener results in high decreases in weight loss percent for 100 percent cotton, half and full plating fabrics.
Originality/value
There is a growing need to study the effect of softeners when spandex yarns are used in the production of knitted fabric which results in high increase of stitch density. This research compares the effects of two different softener types at different concentrations on the properties of both plain jersey fabric produced from 100 percent cotton yarns and from cotton/spandex yarns with different stitch density.
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Fatimah Alhashem, Nasser Agha and Anwar Mohammad
The aim of this study was to measure the readiness of science and mathematics supervisors to utilize technology and online learning platforms for teachers' plans and professional…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study was to measure the readiness of science and mathematics supervisors to utilize technology and online learning platforms for teachers' plans and professional development, during and after the period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach
To achieve this aim, the researchers developed a questionnaire comprising of 55 items based on the instruments used in pertinent studies. A mixed-methods research design was employed, whereby a quantitative online survey was supplemented by focus group discussions with selected supervisors. Survey data were subjected to one-way analysis of variance and t-test, while information obtained via focus groups was coded to identify common themes related to the obstacles and challenges supervisors face.
Findings
When completing the survey, the supervisors approached proficiency using technology; however, focus group discussions revealed misconceptions related to e-leaning and limitations in their abilities to use technology in schools, as well as obstacles imposed by the structure and management of the educational system. T
Practical implications
These findings indicate that supervisors need support in acquiring the competencies required for integrating technology in education, and that their support to teacher community needs to be grounded in clear and systematic approaches and best educational practices.
Originality/value
These findings indicate that supervisors need support in acquiring the competencies required for integrating technology in education, and that their support to teacher community needs to be grounded in clear and systematic approaches and best educational practices.
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Zahid A. Khan and Ibrahim A. Al‐Darrab
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate application of the Taguchi method‐based conceptual signal‐to‐noise (S/N) approach and Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate application of the Taguchi method‐based conceptual signal‐to‐noise (S/N) approach and Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine optimum level of three important factors related to mobile phone conversation during driving, namely time of drive (day or night), distance between cars, and mobile phone call duration that minimizes drivers' reaction time (RT) in braking response.
Design/methodology/approach
Three levels of each factor based on the experience, are considered in the present study. The design of experiment, in the form of an L18 orthogonal array, as proposed by Genichi Taguchi is used to conduct 18 experiments. A total of 27 young male subjects participated in the experimental study. The experimental task involved pressing the brake pedal of the car by the driver upon seeing another car in front while the driver is talking on a mobile phone. Drivers' performance, measured in terms of RT in braking response, is recorded. Conceptual S/N ratio and Pareto ANOVA are employed to investigate the drivers' performance.
Findings
Results show that within the test range, drivers' performance, i.e. RT in braking response is optimum (minimum) when they performed the driving task at day time, distance between cars is long (20 meters), and mobile phone call duration is short (30 seconds). Mobile call duration is found to be the dominant parameter with a percentage contribution ratio of 41.882 percent towards the laid down objective followed by time of driving, 32.003 percent and distance between cars, 1.353 percent.
Practical implications
This paper provides valuable information to the drivers with respect to the use of optimum level of these factors in order to minimize their RT in braking response.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors' knowledge, no study has been conducted in the past to investigate the effect of these factors on the performance of drivers when they use mobile phones for conversation during driving. In addition, no attempt has yet been made to find the optimal level of these factors from drivers' performance in braking response view point. This paper is an original research work of authors and in the opinion it carries significantly important values as it provides new information to the persons who talk on mobile phones during driving.
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