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1 – 10 of over 266000The purpose of this paper is to introduce new non‐classical implementations of neural networks (NNs). The developed implementations are performed in the quantum, nano, and optical…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce new non‐classical implementations of neural networks (NNs). The developed implementations are performed in the quantum, nano, and optical domains to perform the required neural computing. The various implementations of the new NNs utilizing the introduced architectures are presented, and their extensions for the utilization in the non‐classical neural‐systolic networks are also introduced.
Design/methodology/approach
The introduced neural circuits utilize recent findings in the quantum, nano, and optical fields to implement the functionality of the basic NN. This includes the techniques of many‐valued quantum computing (MVQC), carbon nanotubes (CNT), and linear optics. The extensions of implementations to non‐classical neural‐systolic networks using the introduced neural‐systolic architectures are also presented.
Findings
Novel NN implementations are introduced in this paper. NN implementation using the general scheme of MVQC is presented. The proposed method uses the many‐valued quantum orthonormal computational basis states to implement such computations. Physical implementation of quantum computing (QC) is performed by controlling the potential to yield specific wavefunction as a result of solving the Schrödinger equation that governs the dynamics in the quantum domain. The CNT‐based implementation of logic NNs is also introduced. New implementations of logic NNs are also introduced that utilize new linear optical circuits which use coherent light beams to perform the functionality of the basic logic multiplexer by utilizing the properties of frequency, polarization, and incident angle. The implementations of non‐classical neural‐systolic networks using the introduced quantum, nano, and optical neural architectures are also presented.
Originality/value
The introduced NN implementations form new important directions in the NN realizations using the newly emerging technologies. Since the new quantum and optical implementations have the advantages of very high‐speed and low‐power consumption, and the nano implementation exists in very compact space where CNT‐based field effect transistor switches reliably using much less power than a silicon‐based device, the introduced implementations for non‐classical neural computation are new and interesting for the design in future technologies that require the optimal design specifications of super‐high speed, minimum power consumption, and minimum size, such as in low‐power control of autonomous robots, adiabatic low‐power very‐large‐scale integration circuit design for signal processing applications, QC, and nanotechnology.
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The emergence of digital transformation in the banking industry gives rise to the challenges of adopting technology and boosting users' confidence in the process. This study…
Abstract
Purpose
The emergence of digital transformation in the banking industry gives rise to the challenges of adopting technology and boosting users' confidence in the process. This study mainly explores the roles of operant resources and consumption values in the user's consumption process concerning the fintech-embedded product-service system (FPSS) that provides technologically advanced financial services in South Korea.
Design/methodology/approach
This study examines the research model based on users' perceived quality, assessment and recommendation of FPSS. In addition, grounded in the resource-based view (RBV) and consumption value theory (CVT), an extended model is developed to understand the impact of user consumption value on FPSS design. The research model includes both product-service system (PSS) characteristics, i.e. quality and assessment, and user-specific characteristics, i.e. conditional, utilitarian and social values (collectively referred to as user consumption value).
Findings
This study finds that information, service and security quality positively affect users' confidence through positive assessment and recommendation intention. All the elements of user consumption value play a positive role in the FPSS user confidence model. In addition, the impact of operant resources on the overall service assessment is further investigated based on the interest of user's service engagement. Notable findings include users that highly engage in FPSS services return higher service assessment when social value, information quality and service quality increase.
Originality/value
Overall, this study provides academic and managerial guidelines for the strategic design of fintech-embedded banking services by considering the roles of PSS and user-specific characteristics in fostering sustainable competitive advantage.
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Xuesong Wang, Jinju Sun, Ernesto Benini, Peng Song and Youwei He
This study aims to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to understand and quantify the overall blockage within a transonic axial flow compressor (AFC), and to develop an…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to understand and quantify the overall blockage within a transonic axial flow compressor (AFC), and to develop an efficient collaborative design optimization method for compressor aerodynamic performance and stability in conjunction with a surrogate-assisted optimization technique.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantification method for the overall blockage is developed to integrate the effect of regional blockages on compressor aerodynamic stability and performance. A well-defined overall blockage factor combined with efficiency drives the optimizer to seek the optimum blade designs with both high efficiency and wide-range stability. An adaptive Kriging-based optimization technique is adopted to efficiently search for Pareto front solutions. Steady and unsteady numerical simulations are used for the performance and flow field analysis of the datum and optimum designs.
Findings
The proposed method not only remarkably improves the compressor efficiency but also significantly enhances the compressor operating stability with fewer CFD calls. These achievements are mainly attributed to the improvement of specific flow behaviors oriented by the objectives, including the attenuation of the shock and weakening of the tip leakage flow/shock interaction intensity.
Originality/value
CFD-based design optimization of AFC is inherently time-consuming, which becomes even trickier when optimizing aerodynamic stability since the stall margin relies on a complete simulation of the performance curve. The proposed method could be a good solution to the collaborative design optimization of aerodynamic performance and stability for transonic AFC.
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Stephan M. Liozu and Andreas Hinterhuber
This paper seeks to examine the influence of pricing orientation on the price‐setting process in industrial firms.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to examine the influence of pricing orientation on the price‐setting process in industrial firms.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors designed a qualitative inquiry based on the principles of grounded theory with 44 managers in 15 industrial firms located across ten US states. These managers included CEOs, pricing and marketing professionals, and financial professionals working in three industries (automotive, building products and chemicals).
Findings
The study's results reflect similarities and differences in the experiences of managers in industrial firms using all three pricing orientations. It reveals stark contrasts by pricing orientation with respect to how firms organize for pricing, manage the pricing process, make product pricing decisions, manage the transition to more advanced pricing orientations, and develop internal capabilities to face uncertain and ambiguous decisions. The findings also uncover contrasting price‐setting processes by pricing orientation and the balanced used of scientific versus intuitive decision‐making processes.
Practical implications
Pricing is often a neglected element of the industrial marketing mix. This study offers a variety of organizational practices by pricing orientation. The results highlight how best‐in‐class companies that adopted modern pricing practices to derive product prices are organized and how they reach pricing decisions.
Originality/value
This study studies the commonly accepted pricing orientations and links them to organizational structure and decision‐making theory. This study contributes to bridging pricing and organizational theories.
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This paper appropriates the value sensitive design (VSD) framework to examine the role of design values in the development of an information system designed to increase…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper appropriates the value sensitive design (VSD) framework to examine the role of design values in the development of an information system designed to increase transparency and reduce corruption within the context of a large‐scale e‐governance project in India.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative case study was conducted and data were collected through interviews with system designers, observations of system design and implementation, and walk‐through of designed systems. Data analysis followed an interpretive approach intended to understand informants' meaning‐making. Analysis occurred iteratively both during and after the field study.
Findings
The study reveals the complexity of the role of values in the design of information technology wherein the designers in their pursuit of transparency and reduced corruption have to continuously balance their idealistic and pragmatic values.
Research limitations/implications
This study tests the VSD framework in the context of developing an e‐government system thereby highlighting its usefulness but also outlining ways in which the framework can be expanded to make it more relevant to diverse contexts.
Practical implications
This study extends the VSD framework, particularly in contexts where designers' values are primary drivers of design decisions. A greater understanding of the role of design values across the design process can prove crucial in inculcating and reinforcing design values that lead to a more contextually relevant product.
Social implications
This research provides valuable lessons on how to approach design of systems that can benefit humans with implications for designers and for public policy.
Originality/value
This is one of the first studies that utilizes the VSD framework to study information system design in a human development context with novel implications for both research and practice.
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Demetris Vrontis, Alkis Thrassou, Hela Chebbi and Dorra Yahiaoui
The purpose of the research is to utilize and expand on existing knowledge on organizational value‐based innovativeness, towards the development of the “strategic reflexivity”…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the research is to utilize and expand on existing knowledge on organizational value‐based innovativeness, towards the development of the “strategic reflexivity” concept, for businesses competing in the contemporary ever‐modulating business environments.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is based partly on primary qualitative research and partly on theoretical research. The former consists of a six month long in‐house observation and data gathering of a large company (OPERACOM Group) innovation process and on 45 semi‐directive interviews of practitioners and experts.
Findings
The findings descriptively portray the varying competitive conditions as intolerant of conventional strategic marketing planning; and unable to sustain any lasting competitive advantage. Prescriptively, the research proposes a change of strategic philosophy and practice, through a shift from orthodox planning to the design of value‐based reflexive mechanisms that automatically adapt to change. The paper finally presents a preliminary model for the proposed strategic reflexivity process.
Research limitations/implications
The paper, though scientific, it is in parallel a conceptual one. The “strategic reflexivity” concept and its consequent model therefore, are presented, not as a definitive answer to the concerns of contemporary businesses; but rather as a scientifically‐based proposition towards further practical and scholarly development.
Originality/value
The research value rests on a tripod of original contributions: it adds to the voices calling executives to give up on conventional tactical strategic means, counter‐proposing strategic redevelopment that is explicitly value‐based; it identifies the value‐based innovational elements deemed critical in the strategic redevelopment of businesses in hypercompetitive environments; and it develops the “strategic reflexivity” concept and process within the above context towards theoretical development and practical implementation.
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Ari Alamäki and Pentti Korpela
This study aimed to examine the digital transformation of business-to-business (B2B) sales and its effects on the management of value-based selling.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to examine the digital transformation of business-to-business (B2B) sales and its effects on the management of value-based selling.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted a qualitative interview research design. A total of two participant groups—one consisting of sales management professionals and the other consisting of buyers—were created to conduct abductive data analysis to gain a new understanding of B2B sales management.
Findings
As a result of the digital transformation of sales, companies are shifting B2B sales towards value-based selling using a more proactive, continuous process wherein digital value co-creation activities play a big role. Similarly, their buyers now expect more proactive communication about new value propositions, but social media channels are of little importance to most B2B buyers. The management of digital value co-creation activities should be addressed from the sales ecosystem perspective, where non-sellers tend to have a strong role in communicating new value propositions.
Research limitations/implications
There needs to be further research on digital value co-creation activities in the sales ecosystem, as value-based selling requires that selling organizations focus more on educational digital content marketing and engagement with non-sellers via both marketing and sales activities.
Practical implications
Companies rarely exploit experts and project personnel when implementing digital sales strategies; however, they often meet with customers personally and network with them. This requires a broader perspective on sales management.
Originality/value
This is one of the first studies to explore the management of value-based selling from both seller and buyer perspectives.
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Toni Luomaranta and Miia Martinsuo
Adopting additive manufacturing (AM) on a large-scale requires an adoption in company value chains. This may happen through product innovation and require interorganizational…
Abstract
Purpose
Adopting additive manufacturing (AM) on a large-scale requires an adoption in company value chains. This may happen through product innovation and require interorganizational cooperation, but the value-adding potential of cooperation and application recognition is still poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the progress of AM adoption in innovation projects featuring AM application recognition and interorganizational cooperation in the value chain.
Design/methodology/approach
A multiple-case study was implemented in successful metallic AM adoption examples to increase the understanding of AM adoption in value chains. Primary data were collected through interviews and documents in three AM projects, and the data were analyzed qualitatively.
Findings
All three AM projects showed evidence of successful AM value chain adoption. Identifying the right application and the added value of AM within it were crucial starting points for finding new value chains. Interorganizational collaboration facilitated both value-based designs and experimentation with new supply chains. Thereby, the focal manufacturing company did not need to invest in AM machines. The key activities of the new value chain actors are mapped in the process of AM adoption.
Research limitations/implications
The cases are set in a business-to-business context, which narrows the transferability of the results. As a theoretical contribution, this paper introduces the concept of AM value chain adoption. The value-adding potential of AM is identified, and the required value-adding activities in collaborative innovation are reported. As a practical implication, the study reveals how companies can learn of AM and adopt AM value chains without investing in AM machines. They can instead leverage relationships with other companies that have the AM knowledge and infrastructure.
Originality/value
This paper introduces AM value chain adoption as a novel, highly interactive phase in the industry-wide adoption of metallic AM. AM value chain adoption is characterized in multi-company collaboration settings, which complements the single-company view dominant in previous research. Theory elaboration is offered through merging technology adoption with external integration from the information processing view, emphasizing the necessity of interorganizational cooperation in AM value chain adoption. Companies can benefit each other during AM adoption, starting with identifying the value-creating opportunities and applications for AM.
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Beda Barkokebas, Salam Khalife, Mohamed Al-Hussein and Farook Hamzeh
The research introduces means for improving premanufacturing processes (design, procurement and bidding) by leveraging digitalisation in offsite construction. Specifically, this…
Abstract
Purpose
The research introduces means for improving premanufacturing processes (design, procurement and bidding) by leveraging digitalisation in offsite construction. Specifically, this paper proposes a framework that provides measures for the planning and implementation of digitalisation in offsite construction by positioning building information modelling (BIM) as the key technology and lean principles to add value and reduce waste.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper follows the design science research approach to develop the proposed framework and attain the aforementioned objective. The developed framework includes data collection, value-stream mapping and simulation to assess current processes, develop and propose improvements. An empirical implementation is employed to demonstrate the applicability of both the framework and the measures used to evaluate the outcomes.
Findings
The application of the proposed three-stage framework resulted in 9.45%–23.33%-time reduction per year for the various improvement categories in premanufacturing phases. Employing simulation and applying the developed measures provide incentive for upper management to adopt the suggested improvements. Additionally, while the empirical implementation was tested on a modular construction company, the methods used indicate that the framework, with its generic guidelines, could be applied and customized to any offsite company.
Originality/value
While several studies propose that BIM-Lean integration offers an advantage in the context of production systems, this paper focuses on the initial design and planning phases, which are mostly overlooked in the literature. Moreover, the present study provides quantitative evidence of the benefits of data integration through BIM technology.
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Daniel J. Rees, Victoria Bates, Roderick A. Thomas, Simon B. Brooks, Hamish Laing, Gareth H. Davies, Michael Williams, Leighton Phillips and Yogesh K. Dwivedi
The UK Government-funded National Health Service (NHS) is experiencing significant pressures because of the complexity of challenges to, and demands of, health-care provision…
Abstract
Purpose
The UK Government-funded National Health Service (NHS) is experiencing significant pressures because of the complexity of challenges to, and demands of, health-care provision. This situation has driven government policy level support for transformational change initiatives, such as value-based health care (VBHC), through closer alignment and collaboration across the health-care system-life science sector nexus. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the necessary antecedents to collaboration in VBHC through a critical exploration of the existing literature, with a view to establishing the foundations for further development of policy, practice and theory in this field.
Design/methodology/approach
A literature review was conducted via searches on Scopus and Google Scholar between 2009 and 2019 for peer-reviewed articles containing keywords and phrases “Value-based healthcare industry” and “healthcare industry collaboration”. Refinement of the results led to the identification of “guiding conditions” (GCs) for collaboration in VBHC.
Findings
Five literature-derived GCs were identified as necessary for the successful implementation of initiatives such as VBHC through system-sector collaboration. These are: a multi-disciplinarity; use of appropriate technological infrastructure; capturing meaningful metrics; understanding the total cycle-of-care; and financial flexibility. This paper outlines research opportunities to empirically test the relevance of the five GCs with regard to improving system-sector collaboration on VBHC.
Originality/value
This paper has developed a practical and constructive framework that has the potential to inform both policy and further theoretical development on collaboration in VBHC.
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