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Article
Publication date: 26 March 2024

Bernardo Nicoletti and Andrea Appolloni,

The logistics industry has undergone a tremendous transformation. This transformation is necessary to cope with the fundamental changes in customer expectations and the need for…

Abstract

Purpose

The logistics industry has undergone a tremendous transformation. This transformation is necessary to cope with the fundamental changes in customer expectations and the need for digitalization imposed by the pandemic, changes in the socioeconomic world, and innovative technology solutions. This paper aims to present digital transformation as an integrated framework for transforming the operating model and applying advanced solutions to the ecosystem of a quintile logistics (5PL) company. 5PL operators are typically an ecosystem. Loosely coupled or self-organized entities that collaborate in a symbiotic relationship represent this ecosystem. They aim to jointly develop capabilities, create innovative services or solutions, share knowledge, facilitate transactions, and leverage network synergies in a logistics environment to provide optimized or novel customer- or partner-centric solutions (Lamberjohann and Otto, 2020).

Design/methodology/approach

Currently, there is no single definition of an integrated logistics operations model in 5PL practice, so the qualitative method used in this paper allows for investigation from an exploratory perspective. The paper follows a qualitative research methodology, collecting and analyzing data/facts through interviews and visits to subject matter experts, industry practitioners, and academic researchers, combined with an extensive review of academic publications, industry reports, and written and media content from established organizations in the marketplace. This paper follows a qualitative research methodology, as it is an inquiry rather than a statistical study. The qualitative method allows the study of the concepts of phenomena and definitions, their characteristics, and the defining features that serve as the basis (Berg, 2007). It emphasizes generalized interpretation and deeper understanding of concepts, which would be more difficult in quantitative, statistically based research. Fact-finding was conducted in two ways: in-depth interviews with experts from academia, information and communication technology organizations, and key players in the logistics industry; and academic publications, industry reports, and written and media content from established national and international organizations in the market.

Findings

The operations model introduced considers six aspects: persons, processes, platforms, partners, protection and preservation. A virtual team approach can support the personal side of the 5PL ecosystem’s digital transformation. Managing a 5PL ecosystem should be based on collaborative planning, forecasting, and replenishment methods (Parsa et al., 2020). A digital platform can support trust among the stakeholders in the ecosystem. A blockchain solution can powerfully support the 5PL ecosystem from partner relationships’ points of view. The implementation of a cybersecurity reference model is important for protection (Bandari, 2023). Reverse logistics and an integrated approach support the preservation of the ecosystem.

Research limitations/implications

While the author has experience applying the different components of the operations model presented, it would be interesting to find a 5PL that would use all the components presented in an integrated way. The operations model presented applies to any similar ecosystem with minor adaptations.

Practical implications

This paper addresses operations models and digital transformation challenges for optimizing 5PL operators. It provides several opportunities and considerations for 5PL operators interested in improving their management and operations to cope with the growing challenges of today’s world.

Social implications

The competitiveness and long-term performance of 5PL operators depend on selecting and carefully implementing their operations models. This paper emphasizes the importance of using advanced operations models.

Originality/value

The operations model derives from the author’s personal experiences in research and the innovative application of these models to logistics operators (DHL, UPS, Poste Italiane and others). This paper brings together academic and industry perspectives and operations models in an integrated business digital transformation. This paper defines an original optimal operations model for a 5PL operator and can add sustainable value to organizations and society. In doing so, it outlines different solution requirements, the critical success factors and the challenges for solutions and brings logistical performance objectives when implementing a digital business transformation.

Details

Journal of Global Operations and Strategic Sourcing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-5364

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 December 2022

Benna Hu, Laifu Wen and Xuemei Zhou

Vertical electrical sounding (VES) and Rayleigh wave exploration are widely used in the exploration of near-surface structure, but both have limitations. This study aims to make…

Abstract

Purpose

Vertical electrical sounding (VES) and Rayleigh wave exploration are widely used in the exploration of near-surface structure, but both have limitations. This study aims to make full use of the advantages of the two methods, reduce the multiple solutions of single inversion and improve the accuracy of the inversion. Thus, a nonlinear joint inversion method of VES and Rayleigh wave exploration based on improved differential evolution (DE) algorithm was proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the DE algorithm, a new initialization strategy was proposed. Then, taking AK-type with high-velocity interlayer model and HA-type with low-velocity interlayer model near the surface as examples, the inversion results of different methods were compared and analyzed. Then, the proposed method was applied to the field data in Chengde, Hebei Province, China. The stratum structure was accurately depicted and verified by drilling.

Findings

The synthetic data and field data results showed that the joint inversion of VES and Rayleigh wave data based on the improved DE algorithm can effectively improve the interpretation accuracy of the single-method inversion and had strong stability and large generalizable ability in near-surface engineering problems.

Originality/value

A joint inversion method of VES and Rayleigh wave data based on improved DE algorithm is proposed, which can improve the accuracy of single-method inversion.

Article
Publication date: 13 October 2023

Widya Paramita, Rokhima Rostiani, Rahmadi Hidayat, Sahid Susilo Nugroho and Eddy Junarsin

Electric cars (EC) adoption represents a strategic action aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. Although Millennials and Gen Z represent the greatest potential market…

Abstract

Purpose

Electric cars (EC) adoption represents a strategic action aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. Although Millennials and Gen Z represent the greatest potential market for EC, their adoption remains low; thus, this study focused on examining the role of motive in predicting EC adoption intention within these two generations’ population. Built upon the fundamental motive framework, this research explores the motives that lead to EC adoption intention. Subsequently, this study aims to examine the role of performance expectancy as the mediating variable and EC attributes beliefs as the moderating variable that can promote EC adoption intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Both exploratory and confirmatory methods were used in this investigation. Using an exploratory approach, this research explores the fundamental motives and the attributes of EC that influence EC adoption intention. Using a confirmatory approach, this research tests the mediating role of performance expectancy. To collect the data, an online survey was administered to 260 young consumers in Indonesia.

Findings

The results of PLS-SEM analysis from the data revealed that self-protection, kin-care, status and affiliative motives influence EC adoption. Furthermore, performance expectancy mediates the relationship between self-protection, mate acquisition, affiliative motives and EC adoption intention. Among EC attributes, the short-haul performance strengthens the indirect relationship between affiliative motive and EC adoption intention.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is that it only focuses on the practical attributes of EC, whereas psychological attributes that were found to be more influential in consumer’s purchase decisions were not examined.

Practical implications

Marketers need to explore EC attributes that can strengthen the relationship between consumers’ motives and EC adoption intention by increasing consumers’ evaluation of performance expectancy. In this study, marketers can promote short-haul performance, as it will lead to EC adoption for consumers with affiliative motives.

Originality/value

This study ties together two lines of research on the adoption of EC, exploring EC attributes and examining consumers’ motivation to choose EC, especially Millennials and Gen Z. In this way, EC attributes facilitate the fulfillment of consumers’ needs and promote EC adoption intention.

Details

Young Consumers, vol. 25 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-3616

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 15 May 2023

Kai Hänninen, Jouni Juntunen and Harri Haapasalo

The purpose of this study is to describe latent classes explaining the innovation logic in the Finnish construction companies. Innovativeness is a driver of competitive…

16076

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe latent classes explaining the innovation logic in the Finnish construction companies. Innovativeness is a driver of competitive performance and vital to the long-term success of any organisation and company.

Design/methodology/approach

Using finite mixture structural equation modelling (FMSEM), the authors have classified innovation logic into latent classes. The method analyses and recognises classes for companies that have similar logic in innovation activities based on the collected data.

Findings

Through FMSEM analysis, the authors have identified three latent classes that explain the innovation logic in the Finnish construction companies – LC1: the internal innovators; LC2: the non-innovation-oriented introverts; and LC3: the innovation-oriented extroverts. These three latent classes clearly capture the perceptions within the industry as well as the different characteristics and variables.

Research limitations/implications

The presented latent classes explain innovation logic but is limited to analysing Finnish companies. Also, the research is quantitative by nature and does not increase the understanding in the same manner as qualitative research might capture on more specific aspects.

Practical implications

This paper presents starting points for construction industry companies to intensify innovation activities. It may also indicate more fundamental changes for the structure of construction industry organisations, especially by enabling innovation friendly culture.

Originality/value

This study describes innovation logic in Finnish construction companies through three models (LC1–LC3) by using quantitative data analysed with the FMSEM method. The fundamental innovation challenges in the Finnish construction companies are clarified via the identified latent classes.

Article
Publication date: 21 January 2022

Mustafa S. Al-Khazraji, M. J. Jweeg and S. H. Bakhy

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the free vibration response of a laminated honeycomb sandwich panels (LHSP) for aerospace applications. Higher order shear deformation…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the free vibration response of a laminated honeycomb sandwich panels (LHSP) for aerospace applications. Higher order shear deformation theory (HSDT) was simplified for the dynamic analysis of LHSP. Furthermore, the effects of honeycomb parameters on the value of natural frequency (NF) of vibration were explored.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies HSDT to the analysis of composite LHSP to derive four vibration differential equations of motion and solve it to find the NF of vibration. Two analytical models (Nayak and Meunier models) were selected from literature for comparison of the NF of vibration. In addition, a numerical model was built by using ABAQUS and the results were compared. Furthermore, parametric studies were conducted to explore the effect of honeycomb parameters on the value of the NF of vibration.

Findings

The present model is successful in simplifying HSDT for the analysis of LHSP. The first five natural frequencies of vibration were calculated analytically and numerically. In the parametric study, increasing core height or young’s modulus or changing laminate layup will increase the value of NF of vibration. Furthermore, increasing plate constraint (using clamped edge boundary condition) will increase the value of NF of vibrations.

Research limitations/implications

The current analysis is suitable for all-composite symmetric LHSP. However, for isotropic or non-symmetric materials, minor modifications might be adopted.

Originality/value

The application of simplified HSDT to the analysis of LHSP is one of the important values of this research. The other is the successful and complete dynamic analysis of all-composite LHSP.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 March 2024

Ghulam Mustafa, Waqas Rafiq, Naveed Jhamat, Zeeshan Arshad and Farhana Aziz Rana

This study aims to evaluate blockchain as an e-government governance model. It assesses its alignment with legal frameworks, emphasizing robustness against disruptions and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate blockchain as an e-government governance model. It assesses its alignment with legal frameworks, emphasizing robustness against disruptions and adherence to existing laws.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores blockchain’s potential in e-government, focusing on legal, ethical and governance aspects. It conducts an in-depth analysis of blockchain’s integration into data governance, emphasizing legal compliance and resilient security protocols.

Findings

The study comprehensively evaluates blockchain’s implementation, covering privacy, interoperability, consensus mechanisms, scalability and regulatory alignment. It highlights governance’s critical role in ensuring legal compliance within blockchain paradigms.

Research limitations/implications

Ethical and legal concerns arising from blockchain adoption remain unresolved. The study underscores how blockchain challenges its core principles of anonymity and decentralization in e-government settings.

Practical implications

The framework outlined offers potential for diverse technological environments, albeit raising ethical and legal queries. It emphasizes governance’s pivotal role in achieving legal compliance in blockchain adoption.

Social implications

Blockchain’s impact on legal and ethical facets necessitates further exploration to align with its core principles while addressing governance in e-government settings.

Originality/value

This study presents a robust framework for assessing blockchain’s viability in e-government, emphasizing legal compliance, despite ethical and legal intricacies that challenge its fundamental principles.

Details

International Journal of Law and Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-243X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 March 2024

Vipin Gupta, Barak M.S. and Soumik Das

This paper addresses a significant research gap in the study of Rayleigh surface wave propagation within a piezoelectric medium characterized by piezoelectric properties, thermal…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper addresses a significant research gap in the study of Rayleigh surface wave propagation within a piezoelectric medium characterized by piezoelectric properties, thermal effects and voids. Previous research has often overlooked the crucial aspects related to voids. This study aims to provide analytical solutions for Rayleigh waves propagating through a medium consisting of a nonlocal piezo-thermo-elastic material with voids under the Moore–Gibson–Thompson thermo-elasticity theory with memory dependencies.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical solutions are derived using a wave-mode method, and roots are computed from the characteristic equation using the Durand–Kerner method. These roots are then filtered based on the decay condition of surface waves. The analysis pertains to a medium subjected to stress-free and isothermal boundary conditions.

Findings

Computational simulations are performed to determine the attenuation coefficient and phase velocity of Rayleigh waves. This investigation goes beyond mere calculations and examines particle motion to gain deeper insights into Rayleigh wave propagation. Furthermore, this investigates how kernel function and nonlocal parameters influence these wave phenomena.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study reveal several unique cases that significantly contribute to the understanding of Rayleigh wave propagation within this intricate material system, particularly in the presence of voids.

Practical implications

This investigation provides valuable insights into the synergistic dynamics among piezoelectric constituents, void structures and Rayleigh wave propagation, enabling advancements in sensor technology, augmented energy harvesting methodologies and pioneering seismic monitoring approaches.

Originality/value

This study formulates a novel governing equation for a nonlocal piezo-thermo-elastic medium with voids, highlighting the significance of Rayleigh waves and investigating the impact of memory.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. 34 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 December 2023

Ved Prabha Toshniwal, Rakesh Jain, Gunjan Soni, Sachin Kumar Mangla and Sandeep Narula

This study is centered on the identification of the most appropriate Technology Adoption (TA) model for investigating the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies within…

Abstract

Purpose

This study is centered on the identification of the most appropriate Technology Adoption (TA) model for investigating the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies within pharmaceutical and related enterprises. The aim is to facilitate a smooth transition to advanced technologies while concurrently achieving environmental sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

Selection of a suitable TA theory is carried out using a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach incorporating PIvot Pairwise RElative Criteria Importance Assessment (PIPRECIA) and Fuzzy Measurement of alternatives and ranking according to Compromise solution (F-MARCOS) methods. A group of three experts is formulated for the ranking of criteria and alternatives based on those criteria.

Findings

The results indicate that out of all six TA models considered unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model gets the highest utility function value, followed by the technical adoption model (TAM). Further, sensitivity analysis is conducted to confirm the validity of the MCDM model employed.

Research limitations/implications

Challenging times like COVID-19 pointed out the importance of technology in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. TA studies in this area can help in the identification of critical factors that can assist pharmaceutical firms in their efforts to embrace emerging technologies, enhance their outputs and increase their efficiency.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research lies in the fact that the utilization of a TA theory prior to its implementation has not been witnessed in existing scholarly literature. The utilization of a TA theory, specifically within the pharmaceutical industry, can assist enterprises in directing their attention toward pertinent factors when contemplating the implementation of emerging technologies and achieving sustainable development.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 35 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 March 2023

Muthuram N. and Saravanan S.

This paper aims to improve the life of the printed circuit boards (PCB) used in computers based on modal analysis by increasing the natural frequency of the PCB assembly.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to improve the life of the printed circuit boards (PCB) used in computers based on modal analysis by increasing the natural frequency of the PCB assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, through experiments and numerical simulations, an attempt has been made to increase the fundamental natural frequency of the PCB assembly as high as practically achievable so as to minimize the impacts of dynamic loads acting on it. An optimization tool in the finite element software (ANSYS) was used to search the specified design space for the optimal support location of the six fastening screws.

Findings

It is observed that by changing the support locations based on the optimization results the fundamental natural frequency can be raised up to 51.1% and the same is validated experimentally.

Research limitations/implications

Manufacturers of PCBs used in computers fix the support locations based on symmetric feature of the board not on the dynamic behavior of the assembly. This work might lead manufacturers to redesign the location of other surface mount components.

Practical implications

This work provides guidelines for PCB manufacturers to finalize their support locating points which will improve the dynamic characteristics of the PCB assembly during its functioning.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel method to improve the life of PCB based on support locations optimization which includes majority of the surface mount components that contributes to the total mass the PCB assembly.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 41 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 December 2023

Ali M. Saad, Mohammed Dulaimi, Suhaib Arogundade, Sambo Lyson Zulu and Chris Gorse

The recent failures and insolvencies of organisations related to the modern methods of construction (MMC) have gained increased attention and controversy across the UK…

Abstract

Purpose

The recent failures and insolvencies of organisations related to the modern methods of construction (MMC) have gained increased attention and controversy across the UK construction sector. Such failures are linked to their inability to achieve an economy of scale and drive key clients to accept the MMC as an alternative to traditional methods. This paper aims to unravel whether a phenomenon of “innovation negativism” has manifested and is contributing to public clients' indecision towards broader MMC, whether this is only linked to past negative experiences formed after the Second World War or whether additional contributing reasons exist to influence adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focusses on exploring the decision-making of the UK public construction sector; therefore, this paper adopts a qualitative approach, utilising interviews with 14 carefully selected MMC experts, government advisors and public clients. The phenomenological stance adopted herewith enables the authors to make better sense of the perceptions of the interviewees, leading to the conceptualisation of the innovation negativism phenomenon.

Findings

The paper identifies nine themes that may be argued to promote a profound understanding of the MMC negativism influencing public clients' decision-making. The study has found that more than just the previous negative perceptions formulated post Second World War are driving innovation negativism in the UK public sector. Notably, the emerging themes are incomprehension, lacking evidence, communication, relationship history, bad experiences, uncertainty, inadequate experimentation, the business case and localism.

Originality/value

This study is the first construction management research that acts as a fair departure point to conceptualise the reasoning behind innovation negativism in the construction setting. Through mirroring demand's unipolarity for traditional methods, policy and decision-makers can now rely on the conceptualised reasoning to determine practical solutions to overcome clients' indecisions towards MMC.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

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