Bill A. Olson

Bio: Bill A. Olson is an academic researcher from George Washington University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Process (engineering) & Strategic sourcing. The author has an hindex of 6, co-authored 18 publications receiving 185 citations.

A Knowledge Management Based Approach to Quality Management for Large Manufacturing Organizations

Abstract: :This research article provides valuable insights for practicing engineering managers on improving a firm's performance by applying a knowledge management (KM) based approach to quality management (QM). Traditional quality management systems do not provide sufficient knowledge management and knowledge creation opportunities for manufacturing firms to stay competitive in today's fast paced, unpredictable, complex, and rapidly changing global business environment. The world's body of knowledge does not include a quality management strategy where KM is integrated in QM, and where the effectiveness of such a KM/QM strategy is determined through quantitative empirical research over a defined time frame, thus omitting important performance improvement opportunities for manufacturing firms. The objective in addressing this research topic is to present a KM/QM strategy and to demonstrate its effectiveness. Engineering management areas, such as knowledge management and quality management, are leveraged thr...

An Enterprise-Wide Knowledge Management Approach to Project Management

Abstract: Few research studies investigate the relationship between enterprise knowledge management (KM) and project management (PM). These studies have shown that today’s PM approaches do not sufficiently include the required KM processes to derive the highest value from project investment. This research highlights the potential benefits of implementing an enterprise-wide KM approach to project management. The relationship between the four KM pillars, as defined by Stankosky, and the PM knowledge areas, as defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI), are investigated. A survey questionnaire reveals significant positive relationships between the KM pillars and PM knowledge areas. The significance and the nature of this association support the study’s assertion that the management of projects improves as enterprise-wide KM processes and activities are increasingly used.

An Examination of the Role of Enterprise Architecture Frameworks in Enterprise Transformation

Abstract: Enterprise architecture frameworks have been used to plan and manage large-scale enterprise information technology and business process deployments for more than four decades. They are increasingly being used as a proxy for managing and transforming entire organizations—enterprises. However, as an interdisciplinary tool for the management and transformation of the enterprise, there are limitations to their efficacy. This article discusses these limitations and proposes enhancements to the use the frameworks in enterprise transformation based on research into extant business management frameworks and surveys of enterprise architects and systems engineers involved in enterprise architecture and transformation. Research into the common elements of successful business management frameworks combined with surveys and interviews with enterprise architecture experts confirms the limitations of existing frameworks and suggests key considerations for enhanced efficacy. The article concludes with implications of the...

The new economics.

Abstract: Current NHS finance mechanisms use activity-based models that do not measure individual services. Economic policies that measure profitability of different services can drive improvement and efficiency. Monitor is looking at the introduction of a requirement for foundation trusts to implement these policies, and will shortly be consulting on the processes involved.

2018 Annual Report

Abstract: N N U A L R E P O R T Year in Review The American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) is a national level think-tank that focuses on working directly with Tribal Nations in addressing the opportunities and challenges presented in Indian Country today. We work both with and in Indian Country, vetting our work through our partnerships with tribal organizations and enterprises (as mandated by Inter-Governmental Agreements), and through our very active advisory board of directors, whose board membership comprises national tribal leaders and ASU leadership.

Enablers of sustainable supply chain management and its effect on competitive advantage in the Colombian context

Abstract: This article aims to evaluate whether the enablers top and middle management support and strategic purchasing facilitate the development of sustainable supply chain practices, as well as the effect of the latter on competitive advantage (CA). Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was applied to test the proposed model based on a sample from companies operating in Colombia. The main hypotheses of the research were supported, implying that a suitable combination between internal enablers and the adoption of sustainable supply chain practices is important to pursue competitive advantage. However, the hypothesis for the expected effect of environmental practices wasn’t supported, suggesting that there is a win-win perspective between social practices in supply chains and competitive advantage in the context of emerging economies. And the analysis of the non-supported hypothesis is one of the contributions of the article.