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Article
Publication date: 18 December 2020

Protik Basu, Debaleena Chatterjee, Indranil Ghosh and Pranab K. Dan

The purpose of this study is to explore the mediation effect of volatile economic conditions on performance benefits of successful kean manufacturing implementation (LMI). The…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the mediation effect of volatile economic conditions on performance benefits of successful kean manufacturing implementation (LMI). The mediating factor of economic volatility (EV) is constructed based on four macroeconomic dimensions – supplier uncertainty, market demand fluctuations, governmental policy changes and peer competition.

Design/methodology/approach

An attempt is made to build an exhaustive list of the internal operational manifests grouped into one human and three technical input factors. Similarly the benefits accrued are collated under two performance measures – customer satisfaction (CS) and organizational goal satisfaction (OGS). Based on data from the Indian manufacturing sector, structural equation modelling (SEM) and ordinary least square (OLS) analyses are carried out to validate the proposed model.

Findings

Results of the structural model validate the first six hypotheses posited in the model. Results of OLS further reveal the mediation effect of EV having negative impact on LMI–CS and LMI–OGS nexus.

Practical implications

This research offers a fair understanding of the internal operational lean factors and the effect of volatile macroeconomic conditions on lean benefits. The structural model will aid the academicians and lean implementers comprehend the dimensional structure underlying the lean practices and beliefs. This work further helps to understand the moderation effect of environmental complexity on the output measures of LMI in the Indian manufacturing sector.

Originality/value

This work is one of the very first empirical analyses of lean performance under contingent economic conditions. The paper presents a valuable recommendation to practitioners for considering the dynamism of external economic environment instead of simply adopting standalone internal lean parameters, if satisfactory levels of performance in terms of CS and OGS are to be achieved.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 32 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Naila Fares, Jaime Lloret, Vikas Kumar and Guilherme F. Frederico

The authors analysed the operations of two synchronised channels by focusing on “buy online and return in store” (BORS) strategies in fast-fashion retail by investigating internal

1097

Abstract

Purpose

The authors analysed the operations of two synchronised channels by focusing on “buy online and return in store” (BORS) strategies in fast-fashion retail by investigating internal and external factors affecting this omnichannel strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply a combination of techniques to identify the BORS factors. Firstly, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis was used to define the operational factors of BORS adoption. The authors then apply analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate the factors under four SWOT categories for kids, male and female consumer groups. The factors of BORS were then ranked using the fuzzy VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (fuzzy VIKOR) approach.

Findings

Combining the SWOT, AHP and fuzzy VIKOR techniques, the authors identified 21 factors in this study. The opportunity that BORS provides for trying in the fitting room for a better convenient shopping experience was ranked as the most important factor, followed by the opportunity to create a loyal customer profile with an easy and well-organised return process. Furthermore, the results reveal that the child consumer group is the most critical of the stated operations factors, followed by male and female consumers.

Practical implications

The authors described the operational factors and supported the decision-making system of BORS for each consumer group with a priority ranking to realise effective managerial management for fast-fashion retailers and practitioners.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the growing literature on the BORS omnichannel strategy, specifically for fast-fashion retail based on consumer needs.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 36 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 May 2007

Walid Zaramdini

The aim of the paper is to analyze the different aspects of the motives and benefits of certified ISO 9001: 2000 companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

2749

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to analyze the different aspects of the motives and benefits of certified ISO 9001: 2000 companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 900 certified UAE companies were surveyed in April 2004 in UAE. The response rate was equal to 23.2 percent.

Findings

The paper finds that certified companies were more concerned by internal reasons like improving processes or products than by external reasons like pressure from customers or imitation of competitors. In addition, the certification process had generated more internal benefits than external ones.

Research limitations/implications

These findings may indicate that the surveyed firms will sustain their quality efforts as continuous improvement is one of the cornerstones of ISO 9001: 2000 standard. In April 2004, when this survey was conducted, the number of certified companies listed in Dubai or in Abu Dhabi Stock Exchanges was still small. This limited the analysis of the certification's financial benefits.

Originality/value

This is one of the first papers trying to analyze the motives and benefits of ISO 9001: 2000 certified companies in the UAE. The selection of the motives and benefits were validated through statistical analysis and the relationship between expected and perceived benefits was discussed.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 24 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 September 2020

Jiwat Ram and Zeyang Zhang

Belt and road initiative (BRI) is a transcontinental endeavor strategically connecting supply chains (SCs) and economic infrastructures to ignite business activities and achieve…

1042

Abstract

Purpose

Belt and road initiative (BRI) is a transcontinental endeavor strategically connecting supply chains (SCs) and economic infrastructures to ignite business activities and achieve trade benefits. However, the rising global SC failure costs and risks associated with this initiative (owing to unique geopolitical, economic and mega-connectivity involving over 70 countries) necessitate examining BRI SC risks. Yet, research on the subject remains limited, and the purpose of this paper is to address this gap in knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-pronged approach was taken. First, a data sample of 554 articles was analyzed and 178 articles found relevant were used to present a systematic, structured framework of risk factors along operational, economic, financial, social and security dimensions. Then informed by the theory of risk management and supplemented by literature evidence, we have built a BRI SC risk model.

Findings

The results presented through the model show that BRI SCs face a combination of risks triggered by operational processes, informational and environmental (PIE) deficiencies. Findings show that lack of risk and liability management, unbalanced risk-sharing partnerships, lack of transparency, inadequate project evaluation, incompatible corporate governance structures and cyber security all pose threats to BRI SCs specifically and SCs in general.

Research limitations/implications

Academically, the results facilitate theory development by identifying and proposing seven risk factors and modeling relationship among them and BRI SC risks outcome. The results also extend application of theory of risk management to SC context.

Practical implications

The findings provide a decision-making tool for managers to assess risk factors in their SCs, thus enabling improved decision making to avoid, mitigate, transfer or accept risks.

Originality/value

Identifies and proposes a set of seven risk factors that drive BRI SC risks. Develops a model of BRI SC risks which help build theory of SC risk management.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 31 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 June 2021

Atul Rawat, Sumeet Gupta and T. Joji Rao

This study aims to identify the operational and financial risks associated with the city gas distribution project in India and suggest appropriate strategies to mitigate them.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the operational and financial risks associated with the city gas distribution project in India and suggest appropriate strategies to mitigate them.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to identify the operational and financial risks associated with the city gas distribution project in India and suggest appropriate strategies to mitigate them. The survey data is evaluated using factor analysis to understand the latent structure of the critical risk factors. Second, the author uses Situation, Actor and Process–Learning, Action and Performance framework to suggest the mitigation strategies for the identified operational and financial risk factors.

Findings

The research identified five critical risk factors and suggested 39 mitigation strategies to address operational and risk factors impacting CGD projects. The findings of this research will enable the CGD companies to formulate long-term strategies for their business and adopt proactive measures to mitigate the operational and financial risks causing delay and increasing project costs. This study also highlights the importance of government support in developing a conducive environment for CGD industry to thrive.

Originality/value

The CGD projects are critical for natural gas growth in India’s energy mix. The project delay leads to a rise in the total cost involved and increases the payback period for the CGD companies. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this research is first of its kind that identifies the critical operational and financial risks affecting CGD projects in India and suggests the mitigating strategies for them.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 15 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 June 2021

Atul Rawat, Sumeet Gupta and T. Joji Rao

This study aims to identify and rank the operational and financial risks causing a delay in the commencement of the city gas distribution project in India.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify and rank the operational and financial risks causing a delay in the commencement of the city gas distribution project in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews the literature to identify operational and financial risks variables associated with infrastructure projects. Followed by a survey to isolate and assess the critical risk factors for city gas distribution network project in India. The survey data is evaluated using factor analysis to understand the latent structure of the critical risk factors. Second, the author ranks the identified variables as per significance by using the mean score method.

Findings

Five critical risk factors with 20 variables were extracted and assessed to build more understanding of their significance and impact on city gas distribution network project.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt to follow the management approach to identify and rank operational and financial risks impacting city gas distribution project.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 15 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 2002

Katerina D. Gotzamani and George D. Tsiotras

This paper tests and proves empirically the dramatic effect that an organisation’s true motives towards ISO 9000 certification may have on its future effectiveness and value to…

4499

Abstract

This paper tests and proves empirically the dramatic effect that an organisation’s true motives towards ISO 9000 certification may have on its future effectiveness and value to the certified companies. The paper reveals the true motives behind ISO 9000 certification for 85 large Greek companies and statistically tests their relationship with: after‐ISO performance and performance improvement in eight basic TQM categories; and the overall benefits gained from certification. The paper also reveals the real quantitative and qualitative “results” that these companies had from the standards implementation, addressing one main deficiency of the standards, which is the absence of requirements related to real “results” in the organisations. Finally, factor analysis is applied in both certification motives and benefits, revealing the main factors/categories of both, and their in‐between relationship.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 19 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 2006

Emma H. Wood

In order to provide a deeper understanding of small business performance the study aims to analyse data from a national survey into small firms in the events sector.

5460

Abstract

Purpose

In order to provide a deeper understanding of small business performance the study aims to analyse data from a national survey into small firms in the events sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis used logistic regression to determine a model which best predicts the performance of these firms. The data used were part of a larger scale and previously published survey into the business activities of small events firms in the UK. The resulting model identifies those organisational variables which greatly influence performance as well as identifying the business activities which have little or no effect on performance.

Findings

The greater influencing factors were found to be related to the age of the business, the variety of promotional methods used and the sources of finance employed. The more significant factors appeared to be those of a shorter term more operational nature whereas those factors having little effect were those that related more closely to areas of strategic planning.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that small firms in the event sector are likely to perform better if they use a variety of promotional methods, make use of quality tools, and use grants rather than family and friends for funding. The use of marketing planning and research and investment in training is unlikely to improve performance, although this may be only in the short term.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the areas of business operations which can significantly affect performance and is, therefore, of practical use for smaller firms operating in this industry. The analysis also uncovers aspects where further research is required if a more comprehensive understanding of small firm performance determinants is to be gained.

Details

Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1462-6004

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2003

Rogério Puga Leal and Zulema Lopes Pereira

Empirical research on quality improvement in service organisations has been growing in recent years but it still lags behind the developments observed in manufacturing. It has…

2007

Abstract

Empirical research on quality improvement in service organisations has been growing in recent years but it still lags behind the developments observed in manufacturing. It has been generally recognised that more research is needed in the field, especially with regard to the application of quantitative methods that can help managers in the decision‐making process. Results of research carried out in a bank are presented, focusing the main aspects of the service recovery process after a complaint has occurred. A specific methodology is proposed to analyse the failures and corresponding complaints in service delivery, with the ultimate goal of articulating internal and external measures of performance. The methodology provides a better knowledge of the impact caused by operational factors (internal measures) on customer perceptions (external measures), so that management actions can then be taken accordingly.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 20 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 May 2017

Juneho Um

A trade-off exists between product variety and supply chain (SC) performance. To help mitigate the impact on SC of increased product variety, the purpose of this paper is to…

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Abstract

Purpose

A trade-off exists between product variety and supply chain (SC) performance. To help mitigate the impact on SC of increased product variety, the purpose of this paper is to examine how variety management activities including variety management strategy (VMS), supplier partnerships and close customer relationships affect SC flexibility and agility at different levels of customisation.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey-research methodology is employed using data from 363 manufacturing firms from the UK and South Korea. In particular, cluster analysis and structural equation modelling were used to evaluate the proposed model according to the level of customisation.

Findings

The results suggest that internal variety management strategy and external SC integration have a positive influence on SC flexibility and agility. Customer relationships and variety management strategies influence SC flexibility more than partnerships with suppliers whereas variety management strategies and partnerships with suppliers influence SC agility more than customer relationships. In fact, for external integration in particular, customer relationships influence SC flexibility (i.e. reaction capability) rather than agility (i.e. reaction time) whereas partnerships with suppliers influence SC agility rather than flexibility. In a high-customisation context, close customer relationships are the most effective way to increase SC flexibility, whereas partnerships with suppliers are the most effective way to increase SC agility. In a low-customisation context, a VMS and customer relationships are the most effective way to increase both SC flexibility and agility.

Originality/value

This paper suggests key variety management activities to aid managers to better manage product variety ambitions in SC under varying customisation profiles through internal and external approaches.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 28 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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