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Article
Publication date: 18 May 2020

Christopher M. Durugbo, Zainab Al-Balushi, Abdellatef Anouze and Omar Amoudi

The dynamic nature of uncertainty sources in regional operations represents supply chain management (SCM) imperatives to review uncertainty management frameworks on an ongoing…

Abstract

Purpose

The dynamic nature of uncertainty sources in regional operations represents supply chain management (SCM) imperatives to review uncertainty management frameworks on an ongoing basis with a view to identifying and prioritising critical indices of uncertainty for effective SCM. The purpose of this study is to identify the critical indices of uncertainty for regional supply chains and analyse how SCM practitioners perceive uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a Delphi-based study with a panel of 70 SCM experts from the Sultanate of Oman in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. It applies three rounds of a Delphi exercise to identify, select and prioritise the critical indices of supply chain uncertainty perceived by panel experts. The thematic analysis also provides theorisations on the process for uncertainty perception and factors shaping perception.

Findings

A total of 39 uncertainty indices were identified from demand, supply, manufacturing, control, technology, competitive, project, transport and geological sources. The Delphi selection round captured the top 12 indices of experts. The research found an accumulative–aggregative duality that explains uncertainty perception and a cost–conformance–connection triadic set of factors underlying the perceived critical indices. Project uncertainty produced the top-ranked index in the final Delphi round.

Originality/value

This paper makes three main contributions. First, it offers a bottom-up based insight into supply chain uncertainty using the Delphi-based study and from a GCC perspective. Second, the research is unique in its focus on Oman and, third, it is of value for the international operations of GCC companies and for international firms with intentions of expanding, moving or outsourcing their operations to a GCC country such as Oman.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 25 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 July 2020

Tabea Ramirez Hernandez and Melanie E. Kreye

Engineering service (ES) development, particularly with supplier co-creation, is nontrivial, and the literature has acknowledged the high relevance of uncertainty in this context…

Abstract

Purpose

Engineering service (ES) development, particularly with supplier co-creation, is nontrivial, and the literature has acknowledged the high relevance of uncertainty in this context. This study aims to investigate the relationship between different supplier co-creation modes (operationally independent [OI] and operationally dependent [OD]) and uncertainty criticality arising during ES development.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops a conceptual framework of five uncertainty types by synthesizing the relevant literature from service management and new product development. This framework guided the empirical work of two in-depth case studies, describing uncertainty criticality in OI and OD supplier co-creation.

Findings

The findings show that environmental and organizational uncertainty were generally of high criticality for ES development independently of the supplier co-creation mode. Moreover, uncertainty criticality varied between the two cases, with higher criticality of technical and relational uncertainty as well as less resource uncertainty experienced by the focal organization in the OD case. This suggests that supplier co-creation constitutes an uncertainty reallocation.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed to test the generalizability of the qualitative results through quantitative studies.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the service management literature by showing the varying uncertainty profiles manufacturing organizations face when engaging in different supplier co-creation modes. Furthermore, this research provides novel insights on ES development to the broader discussion on ES management.

Details

Journal of Service Management, vol. 32 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-5818

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Mapping a Winning Strategy: Developing and Executing a Successful Strategy in Turbulent Markets
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-129-8

Article
Publication date: 28 May 2020

Abroon Qazi, Irem Dikmen and M. Talat Birgonul

The purpose of this paper is to address the limitations of conventional risk matrix based tools such that both positive and negative connotation of uncertainty could be captured…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the limitations of conventional risk matrix based tools such that both positive and negative connotation of uncertainty could be captured within a unified framework that is capable of modeling the direction and strength of causal relationships across uncertainties and prioritizing project uncertainties as both threats and opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretically grounded in the frameworks of Bayesian belief networks (BBNs) and interpretive structural modeling (ISM), this paper develops a structured process for assessing uncertainties in projects. The proposed process is demonstrated by a real application in the construction industry.

Findings

Project uncertainties must be prioritized on the basis of their network-wide propagation impact within a network setting of interacting threats and opportunities. Prioritization schemes neglecting interdependencies across project uncertainties might result in selecting sub-optimal strategies. Selection of strategies should focus on both identifying common cause uncertainty triggers and establishing the strength of interdependency between interconnected uncertainties.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a novel approach that integrates both facets of project uncertainties within a project uncertainty network so that decision makers can prioritize uncertainty factors considering the trade-off between threats and opportunities as well as their interactions. The ISM based development of the network structure helps in identifying common cause uncertainty triggers whereas the modeling of a BBN makes it possible to visualize the propagation impact of uncertainties within a network setting. Further, the proposed approach utilizes risk matrix data for project managers to be able to adopt this approach in practice. The proposed process can be used by practitioners while developing uncertainty management strategies, preparing risk management plans and formulating their contract strategy.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 13 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 April 2012

Chetan Chawla, Mzamo Mangaliso, Bradford Knipes and Jeff Gauthier

The purpose of this paper is to explain the antecedents of environmental uncertainty in management using a historical framework. The goal of developing passion and compassion in…

1151

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the antecedents of environmental uncertainty in management using a historical framework. The goal of developing passion and compassion in management practice and research cannot be achieved unless a better understanding is developed of the main challenge facing researchers and practitioners – uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The antecedents of uncertainty in management are explored using a historical framework. This enables the generation of insights into the nature and use of uncertainty over the decades.

Findings

The importance of environmental uncertainty is escalating. The paper's historical, philosophical and critical view helps scholars explain and interpret uncertainty within their own research and formulate new research questions.

Originality/value

Understanding the epistemological assumptions underlying paradigms will better enable researchers and practitioners to face a future filled with uncertainty and equivocality.

Details

Journal of Management History, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1751-1348

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 January 2014

Jane Maley and Robin Kramer

– The aim of this paper is to examine the practice of performance management in a cross-border context in times of global uncertainty.

2049

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine the practice of performance management in a cross-border context in times of global uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper.

Findings

The findings expose global uncertainty to be wielding a significant influence on performance management.

Practical implications

A practical framework is developed using real options theory. This approach offers suggestions for multinational corporations to increase the effectiveness of their performance management while at the same time focusing on profit-maximisation.

Originality/value

This paper enhances international management research by recognizing that real options theory can effectively be applied to improve the effectiveness of performance management in global uncertainty.

Details

Personnel Review, vol. 43 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0048-3486

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 September 2010

Jan Terje Karlsen

The paper aims to investigate the communication of uncertainty information and knowledge between the project manager, owner and steering group. The purpose of the project is to…

1908

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the communication of uncertainty information and knowledge between the project manager, owner and steering group. The purpose of the project is to identify the effects of project owner and steering group involvement in the process of uncertainty management.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical data are based on a qualitative case study with in‐depth interviews following a semi‐structured approach. The building of new frigates, a project in the Royal Norwegian Navy, is studied. This is a large public technology project, with a great deal of media and public attention from Norwegian society.

Findings

The project owner and steering group involvement in the project's uncertainty management process were identified. The interviews revealed that uncertainty information and knowledge have frequently been communicated and shared. The results indicate that this has reduced the asymmetric information problem between the parties. This involvement has also contributed to building a collaborative, respectful, professional and trusting relationship between the parties. Another effect that was found is that the project owner has learned about uncertainty management and developed uncertainty consciousness. Moreover, the data indicate that the uncertainty information has helped the project owner develop a holistic view for improved decisions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should investigate other scenarios, types of projects, cultures and countries, so that these findings may be generalized.

Practical implications

The paper concludes that project owner involvement and communicating uncertainty information are important for the effective management of uncertainties and achieving project success.

Originality/value

The involvement of the project owner and the communication of uncertainty information between the project manager and the owner are studied in this research paper.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 3 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 January 2021

Mueen Ahmed and Sankalp Pratap

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the motivation for firms in emerging economies to engage in constraint absorption. It illustrates the mechanisms that enable business…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the motivation for firms in emerging economies to engage in constraint absorption. It illustrates the mechanisms that enable business group (BG) affiliated firms to manage interdependencies vis-à-vis standalone firms in emerging economies.

Design/methodology/approach

The propositions outlined in this study are rooted in the theoretical lens of resource dependence theory (RDT). The authors integrate RDT with the resource-based view and institutional theory to explain the effect of BG affiliation on the relationship between the two types of interdependence (i.e. mutual dependence and power imbalance) and the likelihood of constraint absorption.

Findings

This paper theorizes that BG affiliation influences the relationship between mutual dependence/power imbalance and the likelihood of constraint absorption. However, if both the firms in a dyad are affiliated to a BG, the likelihood of constraint absorption is likely to be low owing to a process called “co-optation” even if mutual dependence or power imbalance between the firms is high.

Originality/value

This paper highlights how BG affiliated firms are better at managing contingencies in the external environment vis-à-vis standalone firms. This paper also advises managers that the type of organizational form is an important factor to be considered while engaging in constraint absorption in an emerging economy.

Details

International Journal of Organizational Analysis, vol. 30 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1934-8835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2011

Karthik N.S. Iyer

The purpose of this research is to enhance the extant understanding of the IT‐collaboration relationship. The study aims to test the robustness of the relationships among the…

2698

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to enhance the extant understanding of the IT‐collaboration relationship. The study aims to test the robustness of the relationships among the concepts of IT analytic capability, demand chain collaboration and operational performance besides investigating the interaction effects of environmental uncertainty variables on the IT‐collaboration relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for testing the hypothesized relationships in the conceptual model were collected through a survey of managers in manufacturing firms from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) membership directory. The survey sample included 152 responses accounting for a response rate of 28 percent.

Findings

Findings suggest that while IT analytic capability associates positively with collaboration, the technological turbulence dimension of uncertainty enhances the above relationship. Market turbulence, however, was not found to have a significant moderating impact on the IT analytic capability‐collaboration relationship. The findings further support the link between collaboration and better operational performance.

Research limitations/implications

While the study focused on a specific IT capability – IT analytic capability – firms utilize other IT resources such as database systems and e‐commerce. These IT capabilities need to be investigated as well since they could bring different functionalities and influences. Besides, a richer understanding of the interacting variables could be obtained by incorporating a broadened set of contextual variables.

Practical implications

Deploying advanced IT analytic capabilities in firms facilitates collaborative endeavors among supply chain partners and ultimately results in operational improvements. However, managers should also understand that the IT capability‐collaboration link is contingent upon technological turbulence: firms operating in highly uncertain technological environments can best leverage IT analytic capabilities to improve collaboration and enhance performance.

Originality/value

Much of the evidence on the performance impact of specific IT capabilities in supply chains is still anecdotal and extant empirical research is insufficient to suggest an unambiguous performance linkage. A critical shortcoming in extant IT and SCM literature is research on the interaction effects of environmental uncertainty variables on the IT‐collaboration relationship. The study addresses these issues.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. 26 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 March 2019

Marcelle Holdaway

Social and environmental accountability by firms can be compromised by a lack of democracy within community engagement and decision-making processes. This is particularly evident…

Abstract

Purpose

Social and environmental accountability by firms can be compromised by a lack of democracy within community engagement and decision-making processes. This is particularly evident in potential conflict situations such as with unconventional gas (UCG) extraction. Dialogic engagement sits within dialogic accounting theory and offers a potentially valuable contribution to democratisation. This study aims to contribute to dialogic engagement as practice through the application of critical futures theory and methodology, causal layered analysis (CLA).

Design/methodology/approach

CLA was applied in field research firstly in interviews and then in a workshop setting involving participants with diverse perspectives on UCG. The workshop was planned around activities designed to: implement dialogic engagement as practice, critically unpack views on the present and future of UCG and energy needs through CLA; and evaluate the usefulness of the methodology.

Findings

Findings suggest that CLA enables access to multiple, complex and nuanced perspectives and facilitates, a deeper understanding of participants own views and of other differing views in relation to UCG, 1) a deeper understanding of participants own views, and of other differing views in relation to UCG, 2) a deeper analysis in the identification of key themes in discussions around UCG, and, 3) the identification by participants of “preferred futures” and “uncertainties” concerning energy needs.

Practical implications

CLA is a valuable tool for undertaking genuine community engagement and has wide-ranging application, one example being with interviews and focus groups. Moreover, with the inclusion of diverse perspectives, options and solutions emerging for consideration are increased. This in turn provides opportunities for creative decision-making through scenario identification and strategic development that potentially give rise to transformative possibilities.

Social implications

CLA may well assist in moving firms, and indeed civil society, closer to reaching preferable social and environmental outcomes.

Originality/value

This cross-disciplinary research applies an innovative approach and methodology, taking democratic engagement to new depths.

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