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1 – 10 of 740Sachin Kumar, Tapan Kumar Panda and Krishan Kumar Pandey
Limited research efforts have been undertaken despite the pivotal role of employees' voluntary behaviours in the success of organizations' environmental sustainability programs…
Abstract
Purpose
Limited research efforts have been undertaken despite the pivotal role of employees' voluntary behaviours in the success of organizations' environmental sustainability programs. In this context, the present study examined the association between employee's mindfulness (EM) and voluntary pro-environmental behaviour (VPEB) at the workplace, and also the mediating effect of connectedness to nature (CNS) on this relationship.
Design/methodology/approach
Grounded in the re-perceiving theory, a model was developed with EM as an independent variable, CNS as the mediator and employees VPEB at the workplace as the dependent variable. Based on the online responses from 421 employees working in manufacturing as well as services sectors in India, analysis was undertaken by utilizing confirmatory factor analysis, Pearson correlation and the PROCESS macro of Hayes (2017).
Findings
EM was noted to be positively influencing employee's VPEB at the workplace, and the mediation analysis indicated that CNS partially intervenes in this relationship.
Practical implications
Corporate leaders striving to achieve the organization's environmental sustainability goals could strive to build a pro-environment culture at the workplace by developing employees' mindfulness and sense of CNS. As the findings have depicted, this would positively influence employee's VPEB at the workplace which in turn will help organizations in achieving their environmental sustainability goals.
Originality/value
This study is the first to examine how EM through CNS motivates employees to engage in VPEB, especially in the organizations' context. Moreover, the re-perceiving theory of mindfulness was also extended in the organizations' environmental sustainability context.
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The purpose of this paper is to introduce a solution to the problem of changing priorities of customer needs (CNs) in quality function deployment (QFD). Customer preferences and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce a solution to the problem of changing priorities of customer needs (CNs) in quality function deployment (QFD). Customer preferences and priorities are not very stable and they may change before products are ready for the market. Therefore, finding CNs accurately is a key to reach a higher level of customer satisfaction through improving products.
Design/methodology/approach
In the proposed model, a Markov chain is employed to model the changing priorities of CNs. The Markov chain finds a pattern of future CNs, the main inputs of QFD. The QFD method is applied to translate CNs into product requirements (PRs). The analytic network process (ANP) is attached to QFD to ensure that all the relations among the elements, inner and outer, are taken into consideration during the translation process. Thus, CNs are received and adjusted by a Markov chain.
Findings
The application of Markov chains for an ANP-QFD model develops an adequate method of finding a pattern of changing priorities of CNs. This pattern enables the ANP-QFD method to work independent of the initial CNs, and originates a Markovain ANP-QFD.
Originality/value
This study originates a stochastic ANP-QFD model. There have been several papers employing various tools and techniques such as the ANP or analytic hierarchy process for QFD to find accurate relations between PRs and CNs. While there are a few papers applying Markov chains to predict the future of the relations of QFD, there is no study which traces the changes in priorities of the CNs during the improvement process. This is addressed by applying a Markovian ANP-QFD. The model is validated through a case study.
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The purpose of this paper is to overcome the limitations of existing celestial horizon references, and improve the navigation accuracy of the strap‐down inertial navigation…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to overcome the limitations of existing celestial horizon references, and improve the navigation accuracy of the strap‐down inertial navigation system/celestial navigation system (SINS/CNS) integrated system with an innovative scheme of deep integration.
Design/methodology/approach
First, a novel conception of mathematical horizon reference (MHR) provided by the strap‐down matrix of SINS is proposed. Then, the realization mechanism of the MHR‐based vertical vector is introduced from the viewpoint of vector rotation. Moreover, the MHR implementation scheme of high precision and reliability is presented, and on this basis, the method which utilizes vertical vector to achieve celestial navigation is introduced. In addition, with considering the characteristics of SINS and the MHR‐based CNS, the SINS/CNS deep integrated navigation system and its specific realization are proposed. Finally, simulation tests are implemented to validate this SINS/CNS deep integrated navigation method.
Findings
The innovative SINS/CNS deep integrated system could make full use of SINS and CNS navigation information to achieve higher navigation accuracy for the long‐duration and high‐altitude vehicles.
Originality/value
This paper provides a novel realization method of high precision MHR and the MHR‐based SINS/CNS deep integration.
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Iddrisu Salifu, Francis Arthur and Sharon Abam Nortey
Marine plastic pollution (MPP) is increasing in recent times because of the high usage of plastic products. Green consumption behaviour (GCB) gaining attention as effective…
Abstract
Purpose
Marine plastic pollution (MPP) is increasing in recent times because of the high usage of plastic products. Green consumption behaviour (GCB) gaining attention as effective approach to achieving sustainable source reduction of plastic pollution, which negatively affects both human pollution and marine biodiversity and ecosystem. Although, Higher Education (HE) students are key stakeholders in addressing environmental issues, including MPP, there is limited empirical research in Ghana on factors influencing HE students’ GCB. This study, in an endeavour to bridge the gap, used the revised theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework to investigate the factors influencing higher-education students’ green consumption behaviour in the Ghanaian context. Specifically, the purpose of the study is to examine the interplay of consumer novelty seeking (CNS), environmental concern (EC), perceived behavioural control and social influence on green consumption behaviour among higher-education students in Ghana. The study also explored the moderating role of gender in the relationship between CNS and green consumption behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used quantitative approach to obtain data from a sample of 233 students at the University of Cape Coast and used the partial least squares structural equation modelling approach for the data analysis.
Findings
The findings provide valuable insights, highlighting the important role of CNS and ECs in driving higher education students’ green consumption behaviour in Ghana. This study also found a revealing role for gender as a moderator in the relationship between CNS and green consumption behaviour, with females exhibiting a more pronounced response to CNS in influencing green consumption behaviour. On the contrary, the authors found a non-significant impact of perceived behavioural control and social influence.
Research limitations/implications
Although this study presents results that provide valuable insights for policy and practical implications, it has some limitations worth mentioning for future research directions. Firstly, the participants sampled for this study comprised only higher education students from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, which may limit the applicability of the findings to other student populations at various universities in Ghana and beyond. Moreover, the exclusion of non-students who are considered as “Generation Z” (i.e. born within 1995–2010) may narrow the scope of generalisability in the context of young consumers’ green consumption behaviour in Ghana. To enhance the generalisability of future studies, it is recommended that the scope of this study be extended. Furthermore, it should be noted that this study primarily measured higher education students’ green consumption behaviour based on self-reported data. Therefore, future research could adopt alternative approaches, such as non-self-reported measures or experimental data so to reduce the complexities and the gap that may exist between attitudes and behaviour.
Practical implications
These results provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators and environmental advocates to develop targeted initiatives that resonate with Ghanaian higher education students to foster green consumption practices and contribute to global efforts against marine plastic pollution.
Originality/value
The novelty of this study lies in the decision to propose a TPB model by including variables like CNS and EC that are believed to positively shape attitudes towards green consumption behaviour. The rationale for examining these variables is grounded in the belief that they are appropriate factors that may predict students’ green consumer behaviour, which may serve as a potential solution to marine plastic pollution.
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Najimu Saka and Ayokunle Olubunmi Olanipekun
Banking sector reforms can impact the development of the real sector. However, there is very little known about this impact on the construction sector in a developing country…
Abstract
Purpose
Banking sector reforms can impact the development of the real sector. However, there is very little known about this impact on the construction sector in a developing country context. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the banking sector reform on the construction output (CNS) using the banking sector reform in Nigeria in 2005 (2005 Banking Sector Reform Programme [BSRP]) as a case.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used econometric methodology comprising unit root test for stationarity, Johansen test for cointegration, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the analysis of covariance. Time series data covering a period from 1981 to 2017 (37 years) about the banking and construction sector performances are analyzed using ten-time series equations.
Findings
The ANOVA estimates reveal that the 2005 BSRP positively impacted the CNS and construction sector growth rate. However, the ANOVA estimates reveal that the gross domestic product (GDP) and bank total loan had a positive impact on CNS in the period (1981–2017) before and after the 2005 BSRP, and consequently removing the effect of the 2005 BSRP on CNS.
Practical implications
This paper concludes that the banking sector reform has a positive impact on CNS in the Nigerian construction industry. The impact is greater and lasting when the reform is directly targeted at improving CNS.
Originality/value
This study provides empirical evidence of the dependence between banking sector reform and construction sector performance in a developing country context. Also, this study demonstrates the relationship between GDP, banking sector reform and construction sector performance in a developing country context.
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Najimu Saka and Victor Arowoiya
The construction sector (CNS) occupies a very unique position in any economy depending on whether developed or developing economy. The size and linkages of the CNS are expected to…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction sector (CNS) occupies a very unique position in any economy depending on whether developed or developing economy. The size and linkages of the CNS are expected to be high to help push or pull the economy from developing to developed economy through elaborate forward and backward linkages, a cardinal aim of developing economies. This paper aims to investigate the forward and backward linkages of the CNS in the Nigerian economy.
Design/methodology/approach
In contrast to the traditional input–output analysis to assess sectoral economic performance and production interdependence, this paper used econometric techniques, including unit root test, cointegration test and Granger causality test to analyze the data. Time-series data (TSD) for the study were extracted from United Nations Statistical Department database.
Findings
The result indicated that the CNS has low forward linkages but high backward linkages to virtually all the sectors of the Nigerian economy. Thus, the outputs of construction mainly satisfy the manufacturing and other activities.
Originality/value
The paper gives an insight into the construction on backward linkages but less extensive forward linkages. The paper recommends a massive local content development of sector to deepen backward and forward linkages and thus helps pull or push weak sectors out of stagnation.
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Jintian Hu, Jin Liu, Yidi Wang and Xiaolin Ning
This study aims to address the problem of the divergence of traditional inertial navigation system (INS)/celestial navigation system (CNS)-integrated navigation for ballistic…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address the problem of the divergence of traditional inertial navigation system (INS)/celestial navigation system (CNS)-integrated navigation for ballistic missiles. The authors introduce Doppler navigation system (DNS) and X-ray pulsar navigation (XNAV) to the traditional INS/CNS-integrated navigation system and then propose an INS/CNS/DNS/XNAV deep integrated navigation system.
Design/methodology/approach
DNS and XNAV can provide velocity and position information, respectively. In addition to providing velocity information directly, DNS suppresses the impact of the Doppler effect on pulsar time of arrival (TOA). A pulsar TOA with drift bias is observed during the short navigation process. To solve this problem, the pulsar TOA drift bias model is established. And the parameters of the navigation filter are optimised based on this model.
Findings
The experimental results show that the INS/CNS/DNS/XNAV deep integrated navigation can suppress the drift of the accelerometer to a certain extent to improve the precision of position and velocity determination. In addition, this integrated navigation method can reduce the required accuracy of inertial navigation, thereby reducing the cost of missile manufacturing and realising low-cost and high-precision navigation.
Originality/value
The velocity information provided by the DNS can suppress the pulsar TOA drift, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the XNAV. This reflects the “deep” integration of these two navigation methods.
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Gaffar Hafiz Sagala and Dóra Őri
The dynamic of the business environment has escalated the competition and uncertainty, which is challenging business survivability, particularly for small and medium enterprises…
Abstract
Purpose
The dynamic of the business environment has escalated the competition and uncertainty, which is challenging business survivability, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). SMEs attract researchers due to their unique characteristics that have limited resources but great flexibility and adaptability. Furthermore, Collaborative Networks (CNs) have been proposed by business scholars as a critical strategy to gain resilience and antifragility. However, the concept of antifragility and its relation with CNs is still vague in the SME sector. Therefore, this study aims to develop a complete understanding regarding: (1) the emerging knowledge that is critical in explaining antifragility in the business sector based on co-citation and thematic analysis; (2) the relation between resilience and antifragility in emerging business research; (3) the relation between CNs and antifragility in emerging business research and (4) a framework of antifragility in the SME context.
Design/methodology/approach
Bibliographic Analysis and Systematic Literature Review are performed to reach the research objectives. We use co-citation and thematic analysis to identify the map of emerging knowledge and the related concepts, which are the fundamentals of antifragility. Furthermore, we use a systematic literature review to determine the relation of antifragility, resilience and CNs in the SME context.
Findings
Antifragility is a higher level of survivability compared to resilience. Antifragile SMEs could gain an advantage from the uncertain business environment. However, both in resilience and antifragility, SMEs should become active learners. Furthermore, CNs are proposed as the gateway for SMEs to manage their resource limitations. The conceptual framework of Antifragile SMEs is presented as the theoretical contribution of this manuscript.
Originality/value
This article explains the knowledge structure of antifragility in the business sector, particularly among SMEs. Based on bibliometric data, we describe critical characteristics or mental states entrepreneurs should have when facing uncertainty. Furthermore, we propose a conceptual framework for antifragile SMEs where active learning and positive psychology are the pillars, and CNs are critical ingredients of antifragility in SMEs.
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Manuele Bertoluzzo and Elisabetta Sieni
This paper aims to present an approach to the design of the compensation networks (CNs) based on a genetic optimization algorithm. The algorithm is applied to CNs with T-topology…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to present an approach to the design of the compensation networks (CNs) based on a genetic optimization algorithm. The algorithm is applied to CNs with T-topology and considers the effects of the parasitic series resistances of their inductive components. The effectiveness of the algorithm is verified using Bode diagrams and simulation results.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper at first describes the problem and the approach followed to reach a set of optimal solutions, then explains the optimization algorithm, reports the obtained solutions and selects the optimal CNs. Finally, the actual performance of the wireless power transfer system (WPTS) when the selected CNs are used are checked.
Findings
This approach gave interesting results and made available a number of different sizing solutions of complex networks in a very short time. Most of the obtained solutions outperform the widely used series-series compensation. An accurate post processing of the obtained result is mandatory to discriminate the solutions that could be implemented from those that in a real system would originate uncontrolled high frequency current oscillation.
Originality/value
This paper offers a rather new approach to solve the problem of sizing the CNs of a dynamic WPTS. This approach makes available a large number of optimal solutions to the problem in a short time, without solving complex system of equations.
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Fiona Cust, Helen Combes, Helena Priest and Henry Cust
Previous research has explored inter-professional education (IPE) in mental health contexts, for example, between mental health nurses and clinical psychologists (CPs). However…
Abstract
Purpose
Previous research has explored inter-professional education (IPE) in mental health contexts, for example, between mental health nurses and clinical psychologists (CPs). However, little research has explored IPE with children’s nurses (CNs) and CPs, who often work together in a range of in-patient and community mental health settings. Indeed, a significant proportion of CNs’ work involves identifying and responding to the mental health needs of children, young people and families; equally, CPs work directly into child teams, and their consultancy work requires awareness of other professional roles. However, knowledge and understanding of roles, and true collaborative working, appears to be limited. This study aimed to address these limitations.
Design/methodology/approach
A project was designed to bring together these two groups in an educational context, to explore ways in which collaborative working may enable effective mental health-care delivery. A total of 17 children’s nursing students and 15 clinical psychology trainees participated in a 3-day workshop, including experiential and clinical vignette work. Workshops were evaluated at three time points, using a questionnaire.
Findings
The workshops were effective in improving knowledge, skills and understanding of roles. Teamwork and discussions were helpful in modifying attitudes and perceptions. However, “defensiveness” was an important theme, demonstrating somewhat fixed beliefs about roles in relation to child mental health care.
Originality/value
Few studies have explored IPE in child mental health contexts, especially in the pre-qualification arena.
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