Search results

1 – 10 of over 3000
Case study
Publication date: 25 July 2024

Antonios D. Livieratos and Antonios Angelakis

In writing this case, the authors collected both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through personal observation and semi-structured interviews with…

Abstract

Research methodology

In writing this case, the authors collected both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through personal observation and semi-structured interviews with Konstantinos Papageorgiou Jr, Papageorgiou Transports & Logistics’s (PTL) CEO. In 2014, Konstantinos Jr participated in an entrepreneurship course for executives instructed by the first author at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Since then, the first author has served as an advisor to PTL’s CEO. Furthermore, Konstantinos Papageorgiou Jr presented his case during an undergraduate management course at the Department of Business Administration at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in November 2020. Finally, three semi-structured interviews with the CEO were conducted from December 2020 until March 2021. Secondary data were collected from the company’s website and social media, as well as databases and annual reports. Since the academic year 2021/2022, the authors have each independently taught the case study in various courses, including strategic management (undergraduate and postgraduate), entrepreneurship (undergraduate) and innovation management (undergraduate and postgraduate). Testing the case in class has shaped the instructor’s manual.

Case overview/synopsis

The case study of PTL highlights a remarkable transformation in response to a critical business challenge. Facing the abrupt loss of their main client in 2010, PTL, led by Konstantinos Papageorgiou Jr, swiftly recovered and sought to proactively mitigate future shocks. Operating amid the Greek economic crisis, Konstantinos Jr recognized an opportunity in the niche market of juvenile Mediterranean fish (fry) transport. Despite lacking prior expertise in this field, PTL engaged in open innovation, collaborating with a variety of partners to acquire the necessary knowledge and capabilities. By 2013, PTL had successfully entered the niche market of fry transportation. Over the subsequent years, this venture grew, and by the end of 2022, PTL operated four trucks dedicated to this niche market. The company’s remarkable transformation exemplifies how a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) can adapt, innovate, and diversify its offerings beyond its comfort zone, ultimately achieving a tenfold increase in turnover. PTL’s journey showcases the strategic value of partnerships and the potential for SMEs to evolve into “innovation producers” in the face of adversity.

Complexity academic level

The PTL case is suitable for management, strategic management, innovation management and entrepreneurship courses. The case is recommended for use at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels (a different teaching plan is proposed for each level). It provides both undergraduate and master’s students studying business administration the opportunity to explore issues associated with the management of SMEs, the formulation and implementation of a business strategy and the management of innovation in SMEs.

Details

The CASE Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 1544-9106

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 May 2024

C. Sivapriya and G. Subbaiyan

This proposal aims to forecast energy consumption in residential buildings based on the effect of opening and closing windows by the deep architecture approach. In this task, the…

Abstract

Purpose

This proposal aims to forecast energy consumption in residential buildings based on the effect of opening and closing windows by the deep architecture approach. In this task, the developed model has three stages: (1) collection of data, (2) feature extraction and (3) prediction. Initially, the data for the closing and opening frequency of the window are taken from the manually collected datasets. After that, the weighted feature extraction is performed in the collected data. The attained weighted feature is fed to predict energy consumption. The prediction uses the efficient hybrid multi-scale convolution networks (EHMSCN), where two deep structured architectures like a deep temporal context network and one-dimensional deep convolutional neural network. Here, the parameter optimization takes place with the hybrid algorithm named jumping rate-based grasshopper lemur optimization (JR-GLO). The core aim of this energy consumption model is to predict the consumption of energy accurately based on the effect of opening and closing windows. Therefore, the offered energy consumption prediction approach is analyzed over various measures and attains an accurate performance rate than the conventional techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

An EHMSCN-aided energy consumption prediction model is developed to forecast the amount of energy usage during the opening and closing of windows accurately. The emission of CO2 in indoor spaces is highly reduced.

Findings

The MASE measure of the proposed model was 52.55, 43.83, 42.01 and 36.81% higher than ANN, CNN, DTCN and 1DCNN.

Originality/value

The findings of the suggested model in residences were attained high-quality measures with high accuracy, precision and variance.

Book part
Publication date: 4 July 2024

Larry W. Isaac, Daniel B. Cornfield and Dennis C. Dickerson

Knowledge of how social movements move, diffuse, and expand collective action events is central to movement scholarship and activist practice. Our purpose is to extend…

Abstract

Knowledge of how social movements move, diffuse, and expand collective action events is central to movement scholarship and activist practice. Our purpose is to extend sociological knowledge about how movements (sometimes) diffuse and amplify insurgent actions, that is, how movements move. We extend movement diffusion theory by drawing a conceptual analogue with military theory and practice applied to the case of the organized and highly disciplined nonviolent Nashville civil rights movement in the late 1950s and early 1960s. We emphasize emplacement in a base-mission extension model whereby a movement base is built in a community establishing a social movement school for inculcating discipline and performative training in cadre who engage in insurgent operations extended from that base to outlying events and campaigns. Our data are drawn from secondary sources and semi-structured interviews conducted with participants of the Nashville civil rights movement. The analytic strategy employs a variant of the “extended case method,” where extension is constituted by movement agents following paths from base to outlying campaigns or events. Evidence shows that the Nashville movement established an exemplary local movement base that led to important changes in that city but also spawned traveling movement cadre who moved movement actions in an extensive series of pathways linking the Nashville base to events and campaigns across the southern theater of the civil rights movement. We conclude with theoretical and practical implications.

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2024

Nitjaree Maneerat, Karen Byrd, Carl Behnke, Douglas Nelson and Barbara Almanza

This study aimed to determine the factors affecting consumers’ perceptions and intention to purchase home meal kit services (HMK), a convenient home-cooked meal option…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the factors affecting consumers’ perceptions and intention to purchase home meal kit services (HMK), a convenient home-cooked meal option, considering the moderating effects of monetary restriction, through the lens of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study used an online, self-administered survey to collect data from 374 US adults. Results were tested for variable associations via multiple linear regression and moderation analyses.

Findings

HMK adoption intention was positively associated with attitude and subjective norms but negatively associated with perceived behavioural control. Consumers’ HMK attitude demonstrated a significant positive relationship with food safety concerns and perceived time constraints. Income and financial constraints were significant moderators of the associations between TPB determinants and HMK intention. The findings emphasised the possibility of using HMK as a foodservice option for time-challenged consumers with food safety concerns.

Originality/value

This study addressed the limited research on HMK, a competitive meal option that foodservice businesses could implement to boost revenue. The study establishes the contribution in understanding the motivators and barriers that potentially affect consumers’ HMK behaviour through the lens of TPB. The results expand the scope of the TPB application in food-related research, providing a deeper understanding of antecedents and other factors on consumers’ HMK behavioural attitudes. Understanding this information will enable practitioners to develop strategies that meet consumers’ concerns when embracing this service to promote HMK.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 March 2023

Carol K.H. Hon, Chenjunyan Sun, Kïrsten A. Way, Nerina L. Jimmieson, Bo Xia and Herbert C. Biggs

Mental health problems are a grave concern in construction. Although the distinction between high job demands and low job resources, as reflected in the Job Demands-Resources…

1051

Abstract

Purpose

Mental health problems are a grave concern in construction. Although the distinction between high job demands and low job resources, as reflected in the Job Demands-Resources (JD–R) model, has been used to examine the extent to which psychosocial hazards influence mental health for construction practitioners, limited research has reflected on the nature of these psychosocial hazards by exploring experiences of site-based construction practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a phenomenological approach to examine people’ experiences and thoughts of the complex phenomena of psychosocial hazards and mental health in construction. In total, 33 semi-structured interviews were undertaken with site-based construction practitioners in Australia to unveil construction-focused psychosocial hazards and their effects on mental health. The data were analysed via content analysis, employing an interpretation-focused coding strategy to code text and an individual-based sorting strategy to cluster codes.

Findings

Eighteen psychosocial hazards were identified based on the JD–R model. Six of these represented a new contribution, describing salient characteristics inherent to the construction context (i.e. safety concerns, exposure to traumatic events, job insecurity, task interdependency, client demand and contract pressure). Of particular importance, a number of interrelationships among psychosocial hazards emerged.

Originality/value

The significance of this qualitative research lies in elucidating psychosocial hazards and their complex interrelatedness in the context of the mental health of construction practitioners, enriching the understanding of this central health and safety issue in the high-risk setting of construction work. The findings contribute to addressing mental health issues in the Australian construction industry by identifying higher order control measures, thereby creating a mentally healthy workplace.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 June 2024

Everett L. Worthington, Jr. and Freda Gonot-Schoupinsky

The purpose of this article is to elicit understanding of how forgiveness, religion and spirituality, and relationships can better our lives. It draws from the life of Everett L…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to elicit understanding of how forgiveness, religion and spirituality, and relationships can better our lives. It draws from the life of Everett L. Worthington, Jr, a positive psychologist and Commonwealth Professor Emeritus at Virginia Commonwealth University. He has published almost 50 books and over 500 scholarly articles or chapters.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study, followed by a ten-question interview. The core methodology is positive autoethnography which is embraced by Worthington to reveal life lessons from things he has done.

Findings

Worthington reveals a life honoring the interwoven lives of people. He has studied forgiveness intensively and finds it to be an essential way of making our way in the world and in a world community that all too often hosts hurt.

Research limitations/implications

An extensive literature has developed to understand what forgiveness is, how it comes about naturally and how the REACH Forgiveness method can help people who struggle to forgive themselves or others, and do it more quickly, thoroughly and frequently. Forgiving has psychological, social, spiritual and physical benefits to the forgiver.

Practical implications

This article is filled with practical information on how to forgive and how to pursue eudaemonia, which Worthington defines as virtue for oneself.

Social implications

Forgiveness has widespread social implications. Good relationships are those that can help form, maintain, grow and repair when damaged close emotional bonds. Forgiveness helps repair, maintain and grow those bonds.

Originality/value

Worthington has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of the subfield of forgiveness studies and in the study of humility.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 24 April 2024

Frank Warnock, James C. Wheat, Justin Drake, Mitch Debrah and Archie Hungwe

South Africa had formally introduced a policy of inflation targeting (IT) in February 2000. By December 2001, the governor of the South African Reserve Bank, after reading the…

Abstract

South Africa had formally introduced a policy of inflation targeting (IT) in February 2000. By December 2001, the governor of the South African Reserve Bank, after reading the latest statistics, was concerned with the disappointing economic data. Economic activity had slowed drastically, to the point that the country appeared to be heading for a recession. The gloomy statistics forced the governor to consider whether the country had pursued the right policy. Persistently high unemployment, one legacy of the apartheid era, meant that South Africa did not have the luxury of waiting for new policies to bear fruit. With the inflation forecast to exceed the mandated target, the governor would have to tighten monetary policy, which would further restrict investment. Was it is time for South Africa to change course?

Details

Darden Business Publishing Cases, vol. no.
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2474-7890
Published by: University of Virginia Darden School Foundation

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

Sikini Labastilla, Maria Regina Hechanova, Antover Tuliao, Mariel Rizza C. Tee, Jigette Cyril Zalun and Romeo Canonoy Jr

This study aims to evaluate the delivery of a virtual community-based mental health and substance use program for Filipino drug users during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the delivery of a virtual community-based mental health and substance use program for Filipino drug users during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

It used a randomized control longitudinal design with data collected prior to the program and every two months for 10 months. The programs focused on building recovery skills, life skills and family modules. Program length ranged from a brief intervention of three sessions to 24 sessions depending on whether clients were low risk, moderate risk or those arrested for drug use.

Findings

Results revealed significant improvements in recovery skills of participants in the treatment group compared to those in the control group. Mental health illness symptoms decreased for both control and treatment groups; however, no differences were found in recovery capital and cravings.

Research limitations/implications

The lack of significant changes in certain variables, such as recovery capital, requires more data to understand the barriers to enable greater recovery. The study was limited to virtual delivery of rehabilitation services conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies may wish to compare modalities of online and onsite delivery to enable a comparison of effectiveness.

Practical implications

Results suggest the feasibility of virtual delivery of mental health and substance use treatment implemented by trained paraprofessionals. However, it also highlights the necessity to build the capacity of service providers and address connectivity challenges.

Social implications

Stigma and discrimination prevent people who use drugs from seeking treatment. Virtual delivery of mental health and substance use treatment can provide a platform where people can seek help while maintaining some privacy.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence from under-represented populations – persons who use drugs in the Philippines.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2024

Vagner Batista Ribeiro, Julio Cesar Melo, Jorge Muniz Jr., Fernando Bernardi de Souza and Renato Cardoso Canever

This paper aims to investigate the impacts of Industry 4.0/5.0 (I4.0/5.0) on the glass manufacturing workplace. Specifically, it studied the workplace, which represents complex…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impacts of Industry 4.0/5.0 (I4.0/5.0) on the glass manufacturing workplace. Specifically, it studied the workplace, which represents complex manufacturing lines of high variety and volume of products.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study based on semi-structured interviews was conducted with managers responsible for I4.0 implementation, and the responses were treated by content analysis.

Findings

Findings reinforce I5.0 aspects to be considered in terms of work organization. The interviewees highlight work and human factors as important for technology implementation, which includes workers tasks, skills, nature of work, human resources development, hiring process and organizations strategies. It was also found that knowledge sharing poses a huge challenge.

Originality/value

In lieu of gaps in the literature, this research further discusses management challenges to support digital transformation and impacts on workers and organizations.

Details

The Learning Organization, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-6474

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 September 2022

Scott C. Manley, Ralph I. Williams Jr. and Joseph F. Hair Jr.

Given the positive organizational principles associated with total quality management (TQM) – customer focus, continuous improvement, and process management – one would assume…

Abstract

Purpose

Given the positive organizational principles associated with total quality management (TQM) – customer focus, continuous improvement, and process management – one would assume TQM's application is universally beneficial across businesses. Generally, research supports that notion. However, given resource limitations and shallow management teams in small businesses, there are multiple challenges in implementing TQM in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Therefore, small business leaders should benefit from knowledge linking other management practices to TQM’s positive effect on small firm performance, which enhances these leaders' return on TQM investment.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to explore TQM’s effect on small business performance and how other management practices enhance that relationship. Specifically, the authors explore how a comprehensive strategic approach (CSA) – a higher-order construct consisting of strategic planning, goal setting, and financial ratio analysis – moderates the relationship between TQM and small business performance. Given the complexity of the authors' model, the application of higher-order constructs, and the exploratory nature of this work, PLS-SEM is well suited for this study.

Findings

Consistent with prior research, the authors found that TQM (also a higher-order construct, consisting of seven lower-order constructs) positively impacts small firm performance. In addition, the authors found that CSA positively moderates the relationship between TQM and financial performance.

Originality/value

TQM’s effect on small business performance is enhanced when leaders implement a CSA. In other words, when small business leaders strategically plan, set goals, and analyze financial ratios, TQM's positive effect on firm performance is enhanced. This finding provides business leaders insights for how to maximize the TQM investment return.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 3000