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Article
Publication date: 25 June 2019

Mei Cai, Guo Wei and Jie Cao

This paper aims to demonstrate how to make emergency decision when decision makers face a complex and turbulent environment that needs quite different decision-making processes…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate how to make emergency decision when decision makers face a complex and turbulent environment that needs quite different decision-making processes from conventional ones. Traditional decision techniques cannot meet the demands of today’s social stability and security.

Design/methodology/approach

The main work is to develop an instance-driven classifier for the emergency categories based upon three fuzzy measures: features for an instance, solution for the instance and effect evaluation of the outcome. First, the information collected from the past emergency events is encodes into a prototype model. Second, a three-dimensional space that describes the locations and mutual distance relationships of the emergency events in different emergency prototypes is formulated. Third, for any new emergency event to be classified, the nearest emergency prototype is identified in the three-dimensional space and is classified into that category.

Findings

An instance-driven classifier based on prototype theory helps decision makers to describe emergency concept more clearly. The maximizing deviation model is constructed to determine the optimal relative weights of features according to the characteristics of the new instance, such that every customized feature space maximizes the influence of features shared by members of the category. Comparisons and discusses of the proposed method with other existing methods are given.

Practical implications

To reduce the affection to economic development, more and more countries have recognized the importance of emergency response solutions as an indispensable activity. In a new emergency instance, it is very challengeable for a decision maker to form a rational and feasible humanitarian aids scheme under the time pressure. After selecting a most suitable prototype, decision makers can learn most relevant experience and lessons in the emergency profile database and generate plan for the new instance. The proposed approach is to effectively make full use of inhomogeneous information in different types of resources and optimize resource allocation.

Originality/value

The combination of instances can reflect different aspects of a prototype. This feature solves the problem of insufficient learning data, which is a significant characteristic of emergency decision-making. It can be seen as a customized classification mechanism, while the previous classifiers always assume key features of a category.

Article
Publication date: 14 January 2022

Qinghua Mao, Jinjin Chen, Jian Lv and Shudong Chen

Decision-making problems in emergency plan selection for epidemic prevention and control (EPAC) are generally characterized by risky and uncertainty due to multiple possible…

Abstract

Purpose

Decision-making problems in emergency plan selection for epidemic prevention and control (EPAC) are generally characterized by risky and uncertainty due to multiple possible emergency states and vagueness of decision information. In the process of emergency plan selection for EPAC, it is necessary to consider several obvious features, i.e. different states of epidemics, dynamic evolvement process of epidemics and decision-makers' (DMs') psychological factors such as risk preference and loss aversion.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a novel decision-making method based on cumulative prospect theory (CPT) is proposed to solve emergency plan selection of an epidemic problem, which is generally regarded as hybrid-information multi-attribute decision-making (HI-MADM) problems in major epidemics. Initially, considering the psychological factors of DMs, the expectations of DMs are chosen as reference points to normalize the expectation vectors and decision information with three different formats. Subsequently, the matrix of gains and losses is established according to the reference points. Furthermore, the prospect value of each alternative is obtained and the comprehensive prospect values of alternatives under different states are calculated. Accordingly, the ranking of alternatives can be obtained.

Findings

The validity and robustness of the proposed method are demonstrated by a case calculation of emergency plan selection. Meanwhile, sensitivity analysis and comparison analysis with fuzzy similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) method and TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for interactive and MADM) method illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.

Originality/value

An emergency plan selection method is proposed for EPAC based on CPT, taking into account the psychological factors of DMs.

Highlights

  1. This paper proposes a new CPT-based EDM method for EPAC under a major epidemic considering the psychological factorsof DMs, such as risk preference, loss aversion and so on.

  2. The authors' work gives approaches of normalization, comparison and distance measurement for dealing with the integration of three hybrid formats of attributes.

  3. This article gives some guidance, which contributes to solve the problems of risk-based hybrid multi-attribute EDM.

  4. The authors illustrate the advantages of the proposed method by a sensitivity analysis and comparison analysis with existing FTOPSIS method and TODIM method.

This paper proposes a new CPT-based EDM method for EPAC under a major epidemic considering the psychological factorsof DMs, such as risk preference, loss aversion and so on.

The authors' work gives approaches of normalization, comparison and distance measurement for dealing with the integration of three hybrid formats of attributes.

This article gives some guidance, which contributes to solve the problems of risk-based hybrid multi-attribute EDM.

The authors illustrate the advantages of the proposed method by a sensitivity analysis and comparison analysis with existing FTOPSIS method and TODIM method.

Article
Publication date: 10 December 2020

Ping Wang, Wenli Fan and Qiao Li

To support vaccine decision-making, a growing number of parents use online communities to obtain informational and emotional support; however, relatively high information…

Abstract

Purpose

To support vaccine decision-making, a growing number of parents use online communities to obtain informational and emotional support; however, relatively high information heterogeneity and polarization in the online environment make it challenging for parents to make informed vaccine decisions based on the systematic processing of conflicting information. In this context, this study aims to focus on the relationship between parents’ knowledge integration and rational and experiential decision-making and the mediating effect of anxiety on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model incorporating the direct and indirect effects of knowledge integration and anxiety on decision-making is proposed and tested through partial least squares structural equation modeling with survey data from 223 parents.

Findings

Knowledge integration negatively affects anxiety. Knowledge integration has a direct positive effect on rational decision-making and an indirect negative effect on experiential decision-making.

Practical implications

These insights into the key role of knowledge integration in parental vaccine decision-making under information heterogeneity and polarization provide support for practical strategies to encourage knowledge integration and alleviate anxiety in online communities.

Originality/value

This study underscores the importance of knowledge integration in vaccine decision-making under information heterogeneity and polarization and reveals distinct mechanisms underlying the effects of knowledge integration on decision-making dominated by rational and experiential modes. The findings also provide insights into the information processing mechanisms underlying the knowledge integration of subjects with insufficient prior knowledge in the non-organizational context.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 25 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 September 2023

Yuxiang Hong, Jiaqing Zhao, Yue Zhang and Qiang Su

In this study, the expectancy disconfirmation model (EDM) was applied to explain the formation of public health emergency preparedness cooperative behavior (EPCB) as well as…

Abstract

Purpose

In this study, the expectancy disconfirmation model (EDM) was applied to explain the formation of public health emergency preparedness cooperative behavior (EPCB) as well as considering the roles of official media exposure and positive emotions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was based on a sample of 374 respondents collected during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A t-test was used to examine the differences in variables by sex, age and educational background. Hypothesis testing was conducted using structural equation modeling. Amos 24.0 and R 4.0.3 were used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results indicated that (1) official media exposure has a positive impact on expectations for and perceived performance of public services, as well as positive emotions; (2) the EDM can be used to explain public satisfaction with government public health services; and (3) public satisfaction and positive emotions have positive effects on EPCB; (4) EDM and positive emotions mediate the relationship between official media exposure and EPCB.

Originality/value

This study provides practical implications for increasing the EPCB from the perspective of risk communication.

Details

Journal of Health Organization and Management, vol. 37 no. 6/7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7266

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 April 2008

Koichi Shiwaku and Rajib Shaw

The aims of this paper are to point out the effectiveness of the education at Maiko and show the direction of effective school disaster education.

2311

Abstract

Purpose

The aims of this paper are to point out the effectiveness of the education at Maiko and show the direction of effective school disaster education.

Design/methodology/approach

The questionnaire survey was conducted in 12 schools (1,065 students) from different parts of Japan, including that of Maiko, to understand the linking between disaster education and students' awareness.

Findings

The questionnaire results show a distinct higher risk perception and risk reduction actions of the students in the Maiko, as compared to other schools. The Maiko focuses on mitigation and preparedness, mainly teaches about the social environment, and makes students think of the importance of implementation. This learning process is found to be effective in reducing the gap between intention and action.

Research limitations/implications

This study points out the crucial points of disaster education based on the education at Maiko. The specific case of disaster education should be developed in each school, adapting local situation.

Practical implications

The study findings are of significant importance for school‐teachers or education departments, while designing the curriculum for disaster education.

Originality/value

The paper shows that education at Maiko is one of the best practices of school based disaster education and the findings and recommendations can be effective at other schools.

Details

Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-3562

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 June 2012

Fabricia Silva da Rosa, Sandra Rolim Ensslin, Leonardo Ensslin and Rogério Joao Lunkes

The aim of this paper is to present a framework to create a better understanding of the context and to aid the environmental disclosure management process. The paper seeks to…

2312

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present a framework to create a better understanding of the context and to aid the environmental disclosure management process. The paper seeks to present a case study illustrating the proposed methodology for assessing environmental disclosure management.

Design/methodology/approach

The ProKnow‐C process is used to identify the opportunities in the literature and the MCDA‐C methodology is used in order to build up the environmental disclosure management (MED) model.

Findings

First the ProKnow‐C process was used to identify opportunities in the literature about environmental disclosure and later the MCDA‐C methodology was used to discover the opportunities and to show a process for generating actions to promote improvement in environmental disclosure.

Practical implications

The case study allowed the manager to develop an understanding of environmental disclosure, showing that organizational performance is the key factor according to managers' perception. This knowledge allowed the manager to identify what the company needs to improve in its environmental disclosure regarding the following aspects: targets for using water, energy program, management of effluent and waste, biodiversity, adaptation to emergency plans, training and environmental awareness, expanding the coverage of the certification process and increasing operational performance in specific indicators relating to the electricity sector (pruning control, fire and oil spill).

Originality/value

The structured process of the MCDA‐C methodology enabled a model to be built that showed graphically and numerically the systemic diagnosis of environment disclosure, allowing the manager to know the consequences of a decision a priori and to suggest a set of improvement actions.

Article
Publication date: 25 October 2019

Eunhwa Yang and Ipsitha Bayapu

This paper aims to investigate data elements, transfer, gaps and the challenges to implement data analytics in facilities management. The goal is not to search for a definite…

1269

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate data elements, transfer, gaps and the challenges to implement data analytics in facilities management. The goal is not to search for a definite solution but to gather necessary information, understand the challenges faced and develop a proper foundation for future study.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used a case study approach with a qualitative method. The case of the Georgia Institute of Technology was investigated by having a semi-structured interview with six relevant personnel. The recorded interview content was analyzed and presented based on six work processes.

Findings

Higher education institutions are taking initiatives but facing challenges in implementing data analytics. There were 36 software tools used to manage different aspects of facilities at Georgia Tech. Identified data elements and data processing indicated that major challenges for data-driven decision-making were inconsistency in data input and structure, the issue of interoperability among different software tools and a lack of software training.

Research limitations/implications

The authors only interviewed individuals who work closely with data gathering, transfer and processing. Thus, the study did not explore the perspective of individuals in the leadership level or the user group level.

Originality/value

Facilities management departments in higher education institutions perform multi-disciplinary functions, including building automation, continuous commissioning and preventative maintenance, all of which are data- and technology-intensive. Managing this overwhelming amount of information is often a challenge, but well-planned data analytics can be used to draw keen insights about any aspect of facilities management and operations and assist in evidence-based decision-making.

Details

Facilities , vol. 38 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-2772

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1994

Eric Sandelands

This special “Anbar Abstracts” issue of Industrial Management & Data Systems is split into six sections covering abstracts under the following headings: Industrial Management;…

Abstract

This special “Anbar Abstracts” issue of Industrial Management & Data Systems is split into six sections covering abstracts under the following headings: Industrial Management; Industrial Engineering and Work Study; Industrial Design; Quality Management; Manufacturing Strategy and Production; Information Systems.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 94 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Article
Publication date: 13 July 2015

Deniz Ilter and Esin Ergen

The purpose of this paper is to present a strategic overview of the current literature on “Building information modelling (BIM) for Building Refurbishment and Maintenance” to…

7830

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a strategic overview of the current literature on “Building information modelling (BIM) for Building Refurbishment and Maintenance” to unfold the factors behind the relative underdeveloped state of the field and to contribute to the development of a more cumulative knowledge base by presenting the current status and suggesting future directions for research.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the literature has been undertaken by classifying and mapping the literature, identifying the input-output relations, exhibiting the areas focused on by researchers as well as neglected ones and by indicating the trends in research through the years. Both qualitative and quantitative analysis is used in the study to better interpret the existing studies in a holistic perspective.

Findings

Although the need for BIM in facility management (FM) has been acknowledged by researchers and practitioners, the results highlight that studies related to BIM applications in maintenance and especially refurbishment are relatively recent. However, the trend in published articles shows that the interest is continuously growing. Existing research in this field can be clustered in the following subtopics: (1) building survey and as-built BIM, (2) modelling and managing energy, (3) design assessment, (4) access to and integration of maintenance information and knowledge, and (5) information exchange and interoperability.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the gaps in the research domain that hinders a widespread adoption of BIM in refurbishment and maintenance stages and introduces roadmaps to surmount the challenges identified in each specific subtopic of the field.

Details

Structural Survey, vol. 33 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-080X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 November 2022

Helena Valente, Daniel Martins, Marta Pinto, José Luis Fernandes and Monica J. Barratt

Recent studies have shown that people who attend electronic dance music events and use drug checking services (DCS) are a predominantly white male, highly educated middle-class…

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Abstract

Purpose

Recent studies have shown that people who attend electronic dance music events and use drug checking services (DCS) are a predominantly white male, highly educated middle-class population. However, there is still a lack of data beyond sociodemographic characteristics that must be addressed. This paper aims to describe the drug use patterns and protective behavior strategies (PBS) used by testers and nontesters at Boom Festival 2018 and analyze the relationship between these behaviors and the decision to use the DCS.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory research based on a cross-sectional design using baseline data collected at the Boom Festival from testers (N = 343) and nontesters (N = 115).

Findings

Nontesters presented, in general, slightly higher frequencies of use for most drugs, whereas testers tended to adopt PBS more frequently. Moreover, testers planned their drug use more often than nontesters and set more limits on the amount of drugs they used in one session. Both of these behaviors work as predictors for using the DCS.

Practical implications

Our data suggest that DCS might not be easily accessible to all people who use drugs, reaching almost exclusively highly educated people that already apply several harm reduction strategies. Actions should be taken to promote service accessibility.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to compare the demographics, drug use and PBS adoption of DCS users with nonusers who attended the same festival.

Details

Drugs, Habits and Social Policy, vol. 23 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2752-6739

Keywords

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