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1 – 10 of over 1000Yong Lin, Jing Luo, Petros Ieromonachou, Ke Rong and Lin Huang
The purpose of this paper is to provide implementation insights and implications regarding the strategic orientations of servitization by testing its impacts on firm performance…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide implementation insights and implications regarding the strategic orientations of servitization by testing its impacts on firm performance, including financial performance and customer service performance.
Design/methodology/approach
Empirical research is conducted using an online survey disseminated to manufacturing firms in Southeast China. This research develops and verifies a strategic fit framework to understand the relationship between the strategic orientation of servitization and service innovation (SI), and its resulting impacts on firm performance.
Findings
The results show that service orientation (SO) has direct positive impacts on firm performance in the manufacturing sector. Customer orientation (CO) and learning orientation (LO) have no direct impact on firm performance, although they have indirect impacts on it via the mediating role of SI capability. Moreover, SO has a similar indirect impact on firm performance via SI capability.
Research limitations/implications
The survey focuses only on China; future studies should verify whether different cultural backgrounds impact the research results.
Practical implications
The results suggest that firms should build up three strategic orientations (SO, CO and LO) for implementing servitization to facilitate SI capability and, thus, to improve firm performance.
Originality/value
This research contributes to enhancing the theory of servitization by developing a strategic fit model of servitization and revealing the impact mechanism of servitization in the manufacturing sector.
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Liz Warren, Dawn Reilly, Agnieszka Herdan and Yong Lin
This paper aims to investigate the mathematics self-efficacy of students who are non-maths specialists. The project explores the student experience in the context of a maths…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the mathematics self-efficacy of students who are non-maths specialists. The project explores the student experience in the context of a maths module with a blended design, comprising both online content and face-to-face teaching. The aim was to reflect on the role of blended learning in this context.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a mixed-method analysis, the study uses data gathered via student surveys and discussion forums, as well as module grades, to provide evidence regarding whether the online component of the module enables students to master the required maths skills. The data are examined under four themes that emerged as critical to improving the self-efficacy of students: flexibility, the interactivity of the online platform, the module's blended design and the functionality of the platform.
Findings
The findings are that the blended approach increases academic self-efficacy in the area of mathematics, also enhancing the student experience. These benefits arise from the combination of allowing the individual mastery of technical skills in the private and stress-free environment provided by the online platform and access to social resources in the classroom setting.
Originality/value
The paper details the influence of self-efficacy on academic performance and the effectiveness of a blended learning approach, in the area of mathematics. It provides insight into the importance of providing multiple opportunities for students to become autonomous as they develop academic self-confidence through the mastery of maths skills.
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Jingjun Liu, Yuzhen Lin and Xiaoyu Li
To study flow‐induced corrosion mechanisms for carbon steel in high velocity flowing seawater and explain corrosive phenomena.
Abstract
Purpose
To study flow‐induced corrosion mechanisms for carbon steel in high velocity flowing seawater and explain corrosive phenomena.
Design/methodology/approach
An overall mathematical model for flow‐induced corrosion of carbon steel in high velocity flow seawater was established in rotating disk apparatus using both numerical simulation and test methods. By studying the impact of turbulent flow using the kinetic energy of turbulent approach and the effects of the computational near‐wall hydrodynamic parameters on corrosion rates, corrosion behaviour and mechanism are discussed here. It is applicable to deeply understand the synergistic effect mechanism of flow‐induced corrosion.
Findings
It is scientific and reasonable to investigate carbon steel corrosion through correlation of the near‐wall hydrodynamic parameters, which can accurately describe the influence of fluid flow on corrosion. The computational corrosion rates obtained by this model are in agreement with measured corrosion data. It is shown that serious flow‐induced corrosion is caused by the synergistic effect between corrosion electrochemical factor and hydrodynamic factor. While corrosion electrochemical factor plays a dominant role in flow‐induced corrosion.
Originality/value
The corrosion kinetics and mechanism of metals in high velocity flowing medium is discussed in this paper. These results will help someone who is interested in flow‐induced corrosion to understand in depth the type of issue.
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Yong Lin, Anlan Chen, Shuya Zhong, Vaggelis Giannikas, Carl Lomas and Tracey Worth
Considering the last-mile delivery service supply chain as a social-ecological system rather than just a firm-based service system, this research exploit the COVID-19 pandemic…
Abstract
Purpose
Considering the last-mile delivery service supply chain as a social-ecological system rather than just a firm-based service system, this research exploit the COVID-19 pandemic disruption to investigate how the supply chain develops resilience from a viewpoint that integrates a social-ecological perspective with the traditional engineering one.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopt a multi-case study approach using qualitative data collected via semi-structured interviews with executive-level managers from nine leading UK last-mile delivery companies. Data analysis is guided by a research framework which is developed by combining the social-ecological perspective with the structure–conduct–performance paradigm. This framework aids the investigation of the impacts of external challenges on companies' resilience strategies and practices, as well as performance, in response to disruptions.
Findings
The research identifies three distinct pathways to resilience development: stabilization, focussing on bouncing back to the original normal; adaptation, involving evolutionary changes to a new normal; transformation, involving revolutionary changes in pursuit of a new normal-plus. Three strategic orientations are identified as operating across these pathways: people orientation, digital orientation, and learning orientation.
Originality/value
In contrast to the manufacturing supply chain focus of most current research, this research concentrates on the service supply chain, investigating its resilience with a social-ecological perspective alongside the traditional engineering one.
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Tzong-Ru Lee, Yong-Shun Lin, Erne Suzila Kassim and Stephanie Sebastian
The main objective of this research is to investigate the factors that influence consumer purchase decisions for halal products before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on…
Abstract
Purpose
The main objective of this research is to investigate the factors that influence consumer purchase decisions for halal products before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on the Engel-Kollat-Blackwell (EKB) theory.
Design/methodology/approach
The research was conducted as a survey. The influencing factors were determined based on the grey relational analysis (GRA) approach.
Findings
The findings indicate before the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers mainly purchased halal products based on four key factors: purchasing experience, certification label, Internet searches and past consumption experience. However, during the pandemic, the ranking and factors have changed to six indicators, which are past consumption experience, purchasing experience, certification labels, standardized specifications, Internet searches and halal certification labels.
Research limitations/implications
The study was limited by the sample size and geographical area. Nevertheless, the findings could be further explored by expanding related theories toward understand human decisions based on spiritual beliefs.
Practical implications
The findings of this study have important implications for research, practice and society. Understanding the factors influencing halal purchase decisions before and during the pandemic can help businesses, policymakers and halal certification bodies to better cater to consumers' needs and preferences and ensure the continued growth and development of the halal industry.
Originality/value
This study evaluates halal purchasing decisions between periods of certainty and uncertainty by using the GRA. Changes in halal consumption and purchase decisions in response to COVID-19 pandemic have become an emerging topic of discovery. The study addresses the gap in the literature regarding changes in consumer decision pattern.
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Yong Lin Chan, Nurul Aini Jamalullail, Chin Ping Tan, Mohd Yazid Abdul Manap and O.M. Lai
This paper aims to discuss the limitations surrounding the yoghurt industry and challenges to producing a bio-yoghurt tablet. The paper looks into challenge facing the yoghurt…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to discuss the limitations surrounding the yoghurt industry and challenges to producing a bio-yoghurt tablet. The paper looks into challenge facing the yoghurt industry, such as manufacturing and distribution, its short shelf life, heat-sensitivity and relatively heavy weight. It further looks into the selection of strains, excipients and storage conditions with special consideration towards maintaining the viability of the probiotics inside bio-yoghurt tablets. The paper also discusses yoghurt standards and definitions across various countries and suggests a more uniform standard be embraced across countries for ease of categorization and production.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is divided into a few major sections; each exploring various aspects of the yoghurt industry. Topics discussed include challenges in yoghurt production and storage; processes involved in bio-yoghurt tablet production, e.g. maximising viability, choice of excipients and more; market trends of yoghurt consumption and potential; and various food standards in countries around the world with a focus on yoghurt.
Findings
The review finds that yoghurt is a segment of the food industry with big growth potential. Most of the problems associated with yoghurt, i.e. poor shelf life, and heavy weight, can be circumvented by transforming it into a bio-yoghurt tablet. The paper further identifies food standard variations among different countries around the world which could impede yoghurt manufacture and acceptance.
Originality/value
This paper looks the various challenges surrounding the increased uptake of yoghurt, specifically in the Asian markets and suggests a viable option to overcome this problem, i.e. the use of a bio-yoghurt tablet. Should the worldwide bodies come together and agree to a universal standard involving yoghurt, the industry may see an even bigger expansion.
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This study aims to integrate conservation of resources theory discus the antecedents and consequences of cyberloafing as well as the boundary effect between cyberloafing and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to integrate conservation of resources theory discus the antecedents and consequences of cyberloafing as well as the boundary effect between cyberloafing and mental health.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors collected 431 valid questionnaires in four months. Each questionnaire was divided into two parts that had to be distributed. The interval between the first distribution and the second distribution was 15 days.
Findings
The research study revealed that employees’ Zhong-Yong thinking and cyberloafing promote mental health, and cyberloafing has a mediating effect. Mindfulness weakens the positive impact of cyberloafing on mental health.
Originality/value
The research study’s results break the stereotype that cyberloafing is not good for organizations. When managers allow employees to engage in cyberloafing at work, this is conducive to employees’ mental health, which can ensure the company’s sustainable development.
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The purpose of this paper is to introduce the background and significance of criminalization of self-money laundering in China and to analyze its application in judicial practice.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce the background and significance of criminalization of self-money laundering in China and to analyze its application in judicial practice.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper introduces the international and domestic background of the criminalization of self-money laundering, demonstrates the theoretical basis and practical significance of the changes of Article 191 in the 11th amendment to the criminal law and puts forward solutions to some controversial issues in judicial practice.
Findings
The 11th amendment to the Criminal Law, which came into force in March 2021, criminalizes self-money laundering under Article 191 and has brought an impact on the traditional theory of criminal law. There are no similar amendments to the other two crimes, namely, Article 312 and Article 349, which lead to some confusion in the judicial practice, especially in the understanding of the number of crimes, and the meaning of proceeds of crime. This paper puts forward solutions to some controversial issues in judicial practice.
Originality/value
This paper introduces the criminalization of self-money laundering in the 11th amendment to the criminal law in China, presents a comprehensive description of and comments on the difference between the Article 191 and its similar articles, namely, Article 312 and Article 349, to make a well understanding in the application of law in judicial practice, which would be beneficial to theoretical researchers and judicial professionals.
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Yong‐fen Ran, Guang‐chi Xiong, Shi‐sheng Li and Liao‐yuan Ye
The purpose of this paper is to improve back propagation neural network (BPNN) modeling in order to promote the forecast calculation precision of landslide deformation.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to improve back propagation neural network (BPNN) modeling in order to promote the forecast calculation precision of landslide deformation.
Design/methodology/approach
The genetic algorithm is adopted to optimize the architectural parameter of BPNN so as to avoided errors occurrence while using the trial‐and‐error method. Furthermore, the Sigmoid function is improved and revised to expand the output range of change‐over function from unipolar (only positive) to ambipolar (may be positive or negative), then the convergence time is reduced and the neural network can express more artificial intelligence.
Findings
The modeling can effectively reduce the probability to get into the local minima while employing neural networks to forecast the landslide deformation. It significantly promotes the forecast precision.
Research limitations/implications
The improved BPNN modeling, which is very good in learning and processing information, can work out the complex non‐linear relation by learning model and using the present data or reciprocity of surroundings.
Practical implications
The revised BPNN modeling in this paper can be used to predict and calculate landslide deformation.
Originality/value
The paper demonstrates that the modeling can meet the demand of calculation precision.
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This paper aims to develop a framework of QFD (quality function deployment)‐based logistics service design to integrate the HOQ (house of quality) technique and modular logic to…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to develop a framework of QFD (quality function deployment)‐based logistics service design to integrate the HOQ (house of quality) technique and modular logic to help in designing logistics services with high quality and a large service variety.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a literature review, a conceptual research framework is built integrating the QFD method and modular logic together. A case study is used to illustrate a real application in logistics service design of the third‐party logistics (3PL) provider.
Findings
The results show that QFD and modularity used simultaneously as design principles can ensure service design quality at three layers (service, process, activity) in the modular logistics service platform.
Research limitations/implications
This paper provides multi‐disciplinary insights for both industry and academics on how QFD/HOQ and modular logic can be integrated to systematically translate customer requirements into logistics service designs.
Practical implications
The framework proposed is directed to show how, at the operational level, the service providers can transform customer requirements to customer value with modular services and develop new service modules more quickly for new customers that have not been served before.
Originality/value
The resulting framework combining QFD philosophy and modular logic, particularly integrating three‐level HOQs paralleled with three layers in the modular service platform, adds knowledge in the research on service design, operations management and marketing.
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