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Book part
Publication date: 20 October 2015

Mohammad Shamsuddoha

Contemporary literature reveals that, to date, the poultry livestock sector has not received sufficient research attention. This particular industry suffers from unstructured…

Abstract

Contemporary literature reveals that, to date, the poultry livestock sector has not received sufficient research attention. This particular industry suffers from unstructured supply chain practices, lack of awareness of the implications of the sustainability concept and failure to recycle poultry wastes. The current research thus attempts to develop an integrated supply chain model in the context of poultry industry in Bangladesh. The study considers both sustainability and supply chain issues in order to incorporate them in the poultry supply chain. By placing the forward and reverse supply chains in a single framework, existing problems can be resolved to gain economic, social and environmental benefits, which will be more sustainable than the present practices.

The theoretical underpinning of this research is ‘sustainability’ and the ‘supply chain processes’ in order to examine possible improvements in the poultry production process along with waste management. The research adopts the positivist paradigm and ‘design science’ methods with the support of system dynamics (SD) and the case study methods. Initially, a mental model is developed followed by the causal loop diagram based on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and observation techniques. The causal model helps to understand the linkages between the associated variables for each issue. Finally, the causal loop diagram is transformed into a stock and flow (quantitative) model, which is a prerequisite for SD-based simulation modelling. A decision support system (DSS) is then developed to analyse the complex decision-making process along the supply chains.

The findings reveal that integration of the supply chain can bring economic, social and environmental sustainability along with a structured production process. It is also observed that the poultry industry can apply the model outcomes in the real-life practices with minor adjustments. This present research has both theoretical and practical implications. The proposed model’s unique characteristics in mitigating the existing problems are supported by the sustainability and supply chain theories. As for practical implications, the poultry industry in Bangladesh can follow the proposed supply chain structure (as par the research model) and test various policies via simulation prior to its application. Positive outcomes of the simulation study may provide enough confidence to implement the desired changes within the industry and their supply chain networks.

Details

Sustaining Competitive Advantage Via Business Intelligence, Knowledge Management, and System Dynamics
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78560-707-3

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 2004

James O'Kane

A case‐based research approach is used to illustrate the power of modelling manufacturing performance measures and to help develop insights into the nature and problems evident…

1706

Abstract

A case‐based research approach is used to illustrate the power of modelling manufacturing performance measures and to help develop insights into the nature and problems evident when attempting to use simulation across different enterprise sectors. The research methodology used considered three specific companies, each with distinctive characteristics and attributes; a small to medium enterprise, a medium to large enterprise and a large enterprise. From a cross‐case analysis of the use of discreet‐event (DE) simulation when applied in these instances, the research attempts to develop policy implications that will provide a better understanding of how simulation studies should be approached across different manufacturing enterprises.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 104 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

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Article
Publication date: 1 June 2005

Andrew Greasley

To provide an example of the use of system dynamics within the context of a discrete‐event simulation study.

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Abstract

Purpose

To provide an example of the use of system dynamics within the context of a discrete‐event simulation study.

Design/methodology/approach

A discrete‐event simulation study of a production‐planning facility in a gas cylinder‐manufacturing plant is presented. The case study evidence incorporates questionnaire responses from sales managers involved in the order‐scheduling process.

Findings

As the project progressed it became clear that, although the discrete‐event simulation would meet the objectives of the study in a technical sense, the organizational problem of “delivery performance” would not be solved by the discrete‐event simulation study alone. The case shows how the qualitative outcomes of the discrete‐event simulation study led to an analysis using the system dynamics technique. The system dynamics technique was able to model the decision‐makers in the sales and production process and provide a deeper understanding of the performance of the system.

Research limitations/implications

The case study describes a traditional discrete‐event simulation study which incorporated an unplanned investigation using system dynamics. Further, case studies using a planned approach to showing consideration of organizational issues in discrete‐event simulation studies are required. Then the role of both qualitative data in a discrete‐event simulation study and the use of supplementary tools which incorporate organizational aspects may help generate a methodology for discrete‐event simulation that incorporates human aspects and so improve its relevance for decision making.

Practical implications

It is argued that system dynamics can provide a useful addition to the toolkit of the discrete‐event simulation practitioner in helping them incorporate a human aspect in their analysis.

Originality/value

Helps decision makers gain a broader perspective on the tools available to them by showing the use of system dynamics to supplement the use of discrete‐event simulation.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 25 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3577

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Book part
Publication date: 29 March 2016

Marc Wouters, Susana Morales, Sven Grollmuss and Michael Scheer

The paper provides an overview of research published in the innovation and operations management (IOM) literature on 15 methods for cost management in new product development, and…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper provides an overview of research published in the innovation and operations management (IOM) literature on 15 methods for cost management in new product development, and it provides a comparison to an earlier review of the management accounting (MA) literature (Wouters & Morales, 2014).

Methodology/approach

This structured literature search covers papers published in 23 journals in IOM in the period 1990–2014.

Findings

The search yielded a sample of 208 unique papers with 275 results (one paper could refer to multiple cost management methods). The top 3 methods are modular design, component commonality, and product platforms, with 115 results (42%) together. In the MA literature, these three methods accounted for 29%, but target costing was the most researched cost management method by far (26%). Simulation is the most frequently used research method in the IOM literature, whereas this was averagely used in the MA literature; qualitative studies were the most frequently used research method in the MA literature, whereas this was averagely used in the IOM literature. We found a lot of papers presenting practical approaches or decision models as a further development of a particular cost management method, which is a clear difference from the MA literature.

Research limitations/implications

This review focused on the same cost management methods, and future research could also consider other cost management methods which are likely to be more important in the IOM literature compared to the MA literature. Future research could also investigate innovative cost management practices in more detail through longitudinal case studies.

Originality/value

This review of research on methods for cost management published outside the MA literature provides an overview for MA researchers. It highlights key differences between both literatures in their research of the same cost management methods.

Article
Publication date: 5 June 2023

Abdullah Ehtesham Akbar and Mohammad A. Hassanain

This paper aims to present a systematic review of the published literature on building information model (BIM)-based simulation tools used for occupant evacuation over the past…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a systematic review of the published literature on building information model (BIM)-based simulation tools used for occupant evacuation over the past 23 years.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted on BIM-based simulation tools used for occupant evacuation over the past 23 years. The search identified a total of 37 relevant papers, which were reviewed. The paper describes the use of BIM-based simulation tools over the years and identifies the research gaps.

Findings

BIM-based simulation tools have undergone progressive development, with constant improvements through the integration of advanced tools and collection of more data. These tools can assist in identifying faults in the building design. The outcomes of the simulation were not entirely accurate, as real-life scenarios vary depending on the various building types and the behavior of their occupants.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the literature through reviewing the capabilities of BIM-based simulation tools and the different simulation methods along with their limitations.

Practical implications

Fire safety engineers and architects can comprehend the utilization of BIM-based simulation tools to enhance the fire evacuation in light of their shortcomings and flaws.

Originality/value

BIM-based simulation tools are becoming more advanced and widely used. There has not been a comprehensive evaluation of the capabilities of the integration of BIM tools and simulation modeling for occupant evacuation. This study guides researchers on the capabilities and efficiencies of integrated solutions for occupant evacuations and their inherent shortcomings. The study identifies future research areas in BIM-based tools for occupant evacuation.

Details

Facilities , vol. 41 no. 9/10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-2772

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Article
Publication date: 17 April 2009

Ila Manuj, John T. Mentzer and Melissa R. Bowers

The purpose of this paper is to present an eight‐step simulation model development process (SMDP) for the design, implementation, and evaluation of logistics and supply chain…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an eight‐step simulation model development process (SMDP) for the design, implementation, and evaluation of logistics and supply chain simulation models, and to identify rigor criteria for each step.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive review of literature is undertaken to identify logistics and supply chain studies that employ discrete‐event simulation modeling. From this pool, studies that report in detail on the steps taken during the simulation model development and model more than one echelon in logistics, supply chain, or distribution systems are included to illustrate rigor in developing such simulation models.

Findings

Literature review reveals that there are no preset rigor criteria for publication of logistics and supply chain simulation research, which is reflected in the fact that studies published in leading journals do not satisfactorily address and/or report the efforts taken to maintain the rigor of simulation studies. Although there has been a gradual improvement in rigor, more emphasis on the methodology required to ensure quality simulation research is warranted.

Research limitations/implications

The SMDP may be used by researchers to design and execute rigorous simulation research, and by reviewers for academic journals to establish the level of rigor when reviewing simulation research. It is expected that such prescriptive guidance will stimulate high quality simulation modeling research and ensure that only the highest quality studies are published.

Practical implications

The SMDP provides a checklist for assessment of the validity of simulation models prior to their use in practical decision making. It assists in making practitioners better informed about rigorous simulation design so that, when answering logistics and supply chain system questions, the practitioner can decide to what extent they should trust the results of published research.

Originality/value

This paper develops a framework based on some of the most rigorous studies published in leading journals, provides rigor evaluation criteria for each step, provides examples for each step from published studies, and illustrates the SMDP using a supply‐chain risk management study.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 39 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

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Article
Publication date: 1 October 1999

Felix T.S. Chan and Bing Jiang

Manufacturing systems design is a complex task and is crucial to the future of a company. Computer simulation provides an efficient and visual method for system designers. The…

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Abstract

Manufacturing systems design is a complex task and is crucial to the future of a company. Computer simulation provides an efficient and visual method for system designers. The popularity of simulation is owing to its ability to model systems in a fast and cost‐effective way, its flexibility and its ability to model the time dynamic behavior of systems. This paper demonstrates the use of computer simulation as a tool for assisting managers and engineers in the design and analysis of a new manufacturing system by presenting a case study. The case study is a study of proposed instrument panel/crashpad production and assembly work‐cells in an automotive industry. The emphasis on the case study was to evaluate alternative designs, predict system performance, detect any potential problems, experiment with system parameters and determine the sensitivity of the system to these parameters. The case study results show that computer simulation can be a useful decision‐making support tool for the analysis of the system performance and the selection of the design alternatives before the system is actually implemented.

Details

Integrated Manufacturing Systems, vol. 10 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-6061

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 October 2014

Antonio Pérez-Bennett, Pål Davidsen and Luis E. López

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of simulators as pedagogical complements to traditional case studies. The research performs experiments with a case and its…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of simulators as pedagogical complements to traditional case studies. The research performs experiments with a case and its accompanying simulator to assess the additional learning attained by the use of a case with its simulator as compared to using the case alone. The paper also describes the development and proposed use of cases and simulators combined.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the development of one companion simulators, it outlines its proposed use, and it shows the results of an experiment to assess marginal learning with the simulator.

Findings

The research finds that simulators increase the understanding of subjects when used to support a case study. Students and teachers perceive the use of companion simulators as valuable.

Research limitations/implications

The research provides ground for developing a new generation of case studies in which the traditional case is enhanced and augmented by simulators developed for one particular case and intended to be used only with that case.

Practical implications

This research has practical implications in how management is taught and learned.

Social implications

The paper has implications in terms of possible changes that can be introduced to the teaching of management in business schools.

Originality/value

This research provides one of the few extant assessments of the learning that can be attained with the use of simulators in management education. The research proposes the creation of a new entity, the “Case+Sim” that draws on the traditional strengths of managerial case studies to be used in educating managers, but complements the case studies with simulators, which provide an added value in permitting students to test their thinking using a realistic interactive learning environment.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 52 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2003

James F. O’Kane

A case‐based research approach is used to illustrate the power of modeling manufacturing performance measures and to help develop insights into the nature and problems evident…

1357

Abstract

A case‐based research approach is used to illustrate the power of modeling manufacturing performance measures and to help develop insights into the nature and problems evident when attempting to use simulation across different enterprise sectors. The research methodology used considered three specific companies, each with distinctive characteristics and attributes; a small to medium enterprise (SME), a medium to large enterprise (MLE) and a large enterprise (LE). From a cross‐case analysis of the use of discrete‐event simulation when applied in these instances, the research attempts to develop policy implications that will provide a better understanding of how simulation studies should be approached across different manufacturing enterprises and how simulation can help organizations achieve organizational excellence.

Details

Measuring Business Excellence, vol. 7 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1368-3047

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 August 2019

Jeffrey W. Alstete and Nicholas J. Beutell

This study aims to consider assurance of learning among undergraduate business students enrolled in capstone business strategy courses using the GLO-BUS competitive simulation

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to consider assurance of learning among undergraduate business students enrolled in capstone business strategy courses using the GLO-BUS competitive simulation. Gender, academic major and business core course performance were examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were 595 undergraduate capstone business students from 21 course sections taught over a four-year period. Variables included learning assurance measures, simulation performance, gender, major, business core course grades, capstone course grade and cumulative grade point average. Correlations, linear regression, multiple regression and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Learning assurance report scores were strongly related to simulation performance. Simulation performance was related to capstone course grade, which, in turn, was significantly related to the grade point average (GPA). Core business courses were related to learning assurance and performance indicators. Significant differences for gender and degree major were found for academic performance measures. Women and men did not differ in simulation performance.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the use of one simulation (GLO-BUS) and studying students at one university taught by one professor. Assurance of learning measures needs further study as factors in business program evaluation. Future research should analyze post-graduate performance and career achievements in relation to assurance of learning outcomes.

Originality/value

This study conducts empirical analyses of simulation learning that focuses entirely on direct measures, including student characteristics (gender, major), learning assurance measures, business core course grades, capstone course grades and student GPAs.

Details

Quality Assurance in Education, vol. 27 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0968-4883

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 49000