Showing papers in "IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management in 1992"
TL;DR: In this article, a computational survey of the various univariate and multivariate learning curve models that have evolved over the past several years is presented to show how the models might be used for cost analysis or productivity assessment in engineering management.
Abstract: A computational survey of the various univariate and multivariate learning curve models that have evolved over the past several years is presented. Discussions are presented to show how the models might be used for cost analysis or productivity assessment in engineering management. A computational experiment comparing a univariate model to a bivariate model is presented. While the bivariate model provides only a slightly better fit than the univariate model, it does provide more detailed information about the factor interactions, and better utilization of available data. The results of the computational experiment can be generalized for the appropriateness of multivariate models. >
281 citations
TL;DR: A review of the progress that has been made in the development of quantitative models of R&D project-selection processes is given in this paper, where future research needs in the area are assessed.
Abstract: The authors review the progress that has been made in the development of quantitative models of R&D project-selection processes. Future research needs in the area are assessed. R&D project-selection has traditionally been modeled in the management science literature as a constrained optimization problem. The deficiencies of this approach have been described, and the need for new approaches has been recognized. In particular, the optimization approach ignores the organizational context in which decisions are made. A new stream of research in R&D project-selection models emerged in the 1970s in response to this need. The philosophy underlying the new approach differs significantly from traditional optimization models. The new approach seeks insight rather than outcomes and focuses on the decision process. >
169 citations
TL;DR: The authors provide a synthesis, an integrative review, of the various taxonomic efforts while taking into account each of the streams of TT knowledge.
Abstract: Technology transfer (TT) literature has grown exponentially during the 25 years up to 1990. As in most emerging fields the literature is quite disjointed. It is especially so in TT because of the cross-disciplinary nature of the field. Although a number of taxonomies have been proposed most are by and for a specific discipline, e.g., economics or sociology. The authors provide a synthesis, an integrative review, of the various taxonomic efforts while taking into account each of the streams of TT knowledge. >
153 citations
TL;DR: This paper investigated the preferences of some 2500 scientists and engineers for managerial and technical careers in 11 different organizations and found that educational background and age played a significant role in the shaping of individuals' preferences.
Abstract: The authors investigate the preferences of some 2500 scientists and engineers for managerial and technical careers in 11 different organizations. Analyses reveal that educational background and age play a significant role in the shaping of individuals' preferences. Two distinctly different success orientations are uncovered. These orientations change very differently for technologists with and without PhDs. Results are reexamined but remain strong for different kinds of technical work. >
112 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present the results of a case study to develop a R&D productivity measurement system and describe the process of designing such a system for a high-tech product-development organization, and also provide a reduced list of ten R*D productivity indicators for ongoing monitoring purposes.
Abstract: Recent concerns over national and corporate competitiveness have stimulated a renewed interest in the measurement of R&D productivity. However, the complexity of measurement problems in R&D organizations has resulted in a situation where there is a scarcity of generally accepted techniques. The authors review the major measurement issues connected with R&D productivity and presents the results of a case study to develop a R&D productivity measurement system. They describe the process of designing such a system for a high-tech product-development organization, and also provide a reduced list of ten R*D productivity indicators for ongoing monitoring purposes. >
86 citations
TL;DR: A cross-sectional field study with 198 members of an international chemical company suggests that divisional affiliation, work group interactions, and the quality of exchange between leader and subordinate (LMX) significantly predict employee perceptions of climate factors believed to foster innovative activities.
Abstract: Results from a cross-sectional field study with 198 members of an international chemical company suggest that divisional affiliation, work group interactions (WGX), and the quality of exchange between leader and subordinate (LMX) significantly predict employee perceptions of climate factors believed to foster innovative activities. Tests also indicate that LMX remains a significant predictor of five of the six climate variables measured, even after controlling for divisional affiliation and the quality of work group exchanges (WGX). Further, analyses reveal that the interaction between WGX and LMX accounts for significant and unique variance on all six of the climate factors studied in this investigation. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for managerial practice and future research. >
82 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors sought to determine whether firms classified as incorporating a Japanese quality management approach had significantly higher levels of worker involvement in the quality effort as well as higher utilization of statistical quality control (SQC) tools.
Abstract: The authors sought to determine whether firms classified as incorporating a Japanese quality management approach had significantly higher levels of worker involvement in the quality effort as well as higher utilization of statistical quality control (SQC) tools. The three types of firms represented were traditional American firms, Japanese firms operating in the US, and nontraditional American firms emulating the Japanese approach to quality management. Results suggest that Japanese and nontraditional American firms (1) have a significantly higher level of worker involvement and (2) use simple SQC tools significantly more than traditional American firms. In addition, Japanese firms operating in the US showed results comparable to these American firms practicing Japanese quality management techniques. >
57 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss the development, motivation, and assumptions of various deterministic and binary substitution models and compare them on the basis of their three mathematical characteristics, showing that the study of the interrelationships between the models is useful in narrowing the choice.
Abstract: The proliferation, assumptions, motivation, and behavior of various substitution models of the technological diffusion process are explored. The underlying notion is that such an understanding helps the model user to choose the most appropriate model for the situation. The authors discuss the development, motivation, and assumptions of various deterministic and binary substitution models and compare them on the basis of their three mathematical characteristics. It is shown that the study of the interrelationships between the models is useful in narrowing the choice. The behavior of the models is studied through an illustration of diffusion of innovative oxygen-steel technology in Spain and in Japan. >
52 citations
TL;DR: A survey of designers and design engineers at ten manufacturing sites was conducted by as mentioned in this paper, who examined the effects of designer communication, job design, organization climate, and CAD system quality on design quality.
Abstract: The authors discuss the roles of designers in the development engineering phase of product development and examine the effects of designer communication, job design, organization climate, and CAD system quality on design quality. A survey of designers and design engineers at ten manufacturing sites was conducted. Communication with downstream processes, task significance, and job commitment was associated with greater achievement of manufacturability objectives. Communication with downstream processes and within the design core team was associated with achievement of strength objectives. Job commitment was a significant predictor of achievement of cost objectives. CAD system quality was not associated with any of the outcome measures. These results suggest that managers of development engineering organizations should treat designers more as professionals and less as workers. They should also redesign the jobs of both designers and design engineers to insure that the designers have greater responsibility and authority for linking with external groups. >
49 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the effectiveness of such nominated boundary spanners in transferring technologies from the corporate research center of a major company to its operating units and found that the attempt was only partially successful.
Abstract: In recent years, organizations have started formally assigning technical professionals to fill the role of technological gatekeepers. The authors examine the effectiveness of such nominated boundary spanners in transferring technologies from the corporate research center of a major company to its operating units. It is found that the attempt was only partially successful. The formally appointed boundary spanners had greater contact with the research center and were themselves more likely to adopt new technologies developed there. They were not effective, however, in transferring technologies developed at the research center to other members of the organization's technical staff. >
47 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the perceptions of advantages and disadvantages of technology transfer and found that laboratory directors regardless of sector are generally optimistic about the payoffs of technology transfers and there is surprisingly little difference between university and government laboratory directors' views.
Abstract: Based on findings from a national survey of government and university R&D lab directors, the authors examine perceptions of advantages and disadvantages of technology transfer. Four points stand out. First, laboratory directors, regardless of sector, are generally optimistic about the payoffs of technology transfer. Second, there is surprisingly little difference between university and government laboratory directors' views. Third, the research mission of the laboratory is related to directors' assessments of the problems and benefits accruing from technology transfer activity. Finally, laboratories stressing development research encounter fewer disadvantages from technology transfer activity than those involved chiefly in basic or applied research oriented laboratories. The benefit most commonly cited by both government and university laboratory directors is increased public visibility for the laboratories' activities, and both indicate that the greatest problem is time taken away from the laboratories research activities. >
TL;DR: In this paper, the problem of determining the part mix ratios at which a set of part types should be produced over the next production period is addressed, with computations based on machine utilizations.
Abstract: The problem of determining the part mix ratios at which a set of part types should be produced over the next production period is addressed. Integer programming is used to solve this problem, with computations based on machine utilizations. Several objectives are discussed, each applicable in different FMS situations. One objective balancing machine workload to eliminate bottlenecks, is illustrated. The ratios provide input into more detailed models that can be used to evaluate these part mix ratios. Three complementary models are suggested: a stochastic, multiclass, closed queuing network model, providing pessimistic, aggregate, and steady-state performance evaluation results: a deterministic, timed Petri net model, and its associated algebraic representation, which provides optimistic results: simulation, which provides the detailed modeling capabilities necessary to evaluate the performance of the ratios for research purposes. Either of the first two models is adequate to evaluate the ratios in practice. The part mix ratios can help solve other planning and operating problems. >
TL;DR: An analytical approach and a PC software based solution are presented to a project management problem, in which multiple resources must be allocated to perform both routine tasks and a set of projects with varying levels of priority.
Abstract: An analytical approach and a PC software based solution are presented to a project management problem, in which multiple resources must be allocated to perform both routine tasks and a set of projects with varying levels of priority. The performance of a priority-based decision rule was tested on this project management problem. The model was able to provide division-level management with an effective tool for staff workload planning and program management. A sequential, iterative approach is developed and used to test and evaluate alternative PC commercial software on a set of projects and evolving criteria. A PC commercial software package, with associated heuristics, is demonstrated to provide useful results to multiproject staff scheduling problems in an actual organization. >
TL;DR: In this article, a study of 492 management information systems (MIS) managers was conducted to determine the degree of satisfaction with MIS project teams and the factors associated with successful teams.
Abstract: A study of 492 management information systems (MIS) managers was conducted to determine the degree of satisfaction with MIS project teams and the factors associated with successful teams. In general, project teams met, and in many cases, exceeded expectations. Respondents were divided into two groups: managers whose expectations were exceeded and those whose expectations were not. Test of differences showed that only one characteristic, the size of the MIS department, significantly distinguishes between these two groups. In addition, the two groups were tested for differences in attitudes toward items that have been noted in the literature as being either an advantage or disadvantage of project management. Many statistically significant differences were found. An analysis of the possible reasons for these results and a discussion of their practical significance are given. >
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examine theoretical arguments for the possible advantages of smallness in R&D organizations, and propose an ideal product development organization using the techniques of control theory to simulate information flows.
Abstract: Many R&D managers believe that small R&D organizations are more productive than large ones, a view that is reflected in the popular management literature of the 1980s. The author examines theoretical arguments for the possible advantages of smallness in R&D organizations, proposes an ideal product development organization using the techniques of control theory to simulate information flows, and compares the ideal model with survey data from five R&D organizations. Although direct contact with customers has been shown to be the best source of information about new product concepts, the majority of the product development engineers and engineering managers responding to a survey reported that they speak with customers either one or twice a year, or not at all. It is concluded that merely making R&D organizations small may prove disappointing unless careful attention is paid to organizational policies affecting communications flows, direct access to customers, opportunistic planning, and financial incentives for good performance. >
TL;DR: In this article, it is argued that the degree of technical and marketing aggressiveness has an impact on the performance of a firm and the reasons for this are explored drawing upon a number of recent research studies.
Abstract: It is argued that the degree of technical and marketing aggressiveness has an impact on the performance of a firm. The reasons for this are explored drawing upon a number of recent research studies. The conclusions are that these two dimensions, which are identifiable in practice, are useful descriptors of important organizational characteristics and as such provide information for managerial decisions. >
TL;DR: The improvement of the contingency planning process through the application of group decision support technology could provide a new foundation for the management of the response to catastrophic natural and technological events.
Abstract: During the last two years the US has endured extensive property damage and loss of life from the Hurricane Hugo and Loma Prieta natural disasters and expended billions of dollars in the aftermath of a major oil spill in Prince William Sound. Ineffective precrisis planning was, according to most observers, a primary factor contributing to the failure of these response efforts. The application of decision analysis methods and decision support tools to the development of a scenario-driven planning process is discussed. The methodology and structured group interactions on which this technology should be based are demonstrated and are discussed in the context of planning for earthquakes and catastrophic oilspills. The improvement of the contingency planning process through the application of group decision support technology could provide a new foundation for the management of the response to catastrophic natural and technological events. >
TL;DR: In this paper, a multigeneration model, developed for high-technology industries and tested on a high-tech product class, is used to forecast use of three generations of packaging technology in the fluid milk market: glass, paperboard cartons, and plastic.
Abstract: A recently introduced multigeneration model, developed for high-technology industries and tested on a high-tech product class, is used to forecast use of three generations of packaging technology in the fluid milk market: glass, paperboard cartons, and plastic. Results show that the model can be successfully applied to industries not usually associated with high technology, and to specific markets, rather than across a whole product class. The model is extended by incorporating pricing, which brings about slight improvements in already good forecasts. >
TL;DR: In this article, an empirical study of 222 US manufacturing firms found that a considerable gap exists between the firms' expectations and their perceived achievements in meeting the challenge of more competitive manufacturability.
Abstract: Before a firm can make an investment decision on implementing computer-based advanced manufacturing technologies, it should understand what it is trying to accomplish. This empirical study of 222 US manufacturing firms found that a considerable gap exists between the firms' expectations and their perceived achievements. All the technologies are neither equally appropriate nor equally effective in meeting the challenge of more competitive manufacturability. While the type of advanced manufacturing technology plays a key role in how the firms go about formulating their objectives, the industry segment exhibits only moderate influences. A number of unintended benefits do appear to accrue to the adopting firms. >
TL;DR: In this article, a study conducted on 100 smaller manufacturing firms investigates how the process innovators in that group differ from the other firms in terms of the operating problems they face, and the global picture of a process innovator is that of a company with tighter capacity management, better process design, more qualified and better trained employees, a more flexible and more responsive manufacturing system, better quality, and a more harmonious labor relations climate than other companies.
Abstract: Small manufacturing companies are generally less sophisticated than large companies. Their decisions to adopt new manufacturing technologies are often based more on short-term operating realities than on long-term strategic plans. This research study conducted on 100 smaller manufacturing firms investigates how the process innovators in that group differ from the other firms in terms of the operating problems they face. The global picture of a process innovator which emerges from this study is that of a company with tighter capacity management, better process design, more qualified and better trained employees, a more flexible and more responsive manufacturing system, better quality, and a more harmonious labor relations climate than other companies. >
TL;DR: In this article, a pictorial approach to modeling poor-quality cost (PQC) is proposed, which is patterned after that used in computer-based information system design.
Abstract: A pictorial approach to modeling poor-quality cost (PQC) is proposed. The approach is patterned after that used in a computer-based information system design. It includes two major steps: (1) specifying the PQC variables as well as the significant relationship among the variables, and mapping the variables and relationships into an influence diagram showing the structure of a PQC system: and (2) converting the structure into a well-defined entity-relationship diagram showing the input-output functions and their associated properties. Two major benefits of using the pictorial approach are that the influence diagram can provide an easy-to-understand PQC system for quality management practitioners and the entity-relationship diagram can provide an effective framework for maintaining and revising the PQC system. >
TL;DR: In this article, a model which describes the process of the use of teams in manufacturing is developed and proposed, based on an extensive review of case studies found in the literature, and the results indicate what strategies are required for team programs to operate successfully and what benefits can be expected from such programs.
Abstract: Based on an extensive review of case studies found in the literature, a model which describes the process of the use of teams in manufacturing is developed and proposed. The research methodology (aimed at establishing relationships between the factors in the model) was accomplished through a comprehensive investigation of a manufacturing organization which utilizes team concepts. The impact of this organization's team programs on five variables is directly measured: productivity; quality; job satisfaction; motivation; and decision making and implementation. Results and conclusions indicate what strategies are required for team programs to operate successfully and what benefits are to be expected from such programs. >
TL;DR: A knowledge-based system is described that helps managers measure and visualize software systems and once managers are able to understand and visualization software systems, they can control software development.
Abstract: Managers have difficulty understanding and visualizing software systems. A metric-based management approach is introduced that helps managers plan, schedule and staff software system development. A knowledge-based system is described that helps managers measure and visualize software systems. Once managers are able to understand and visualize software systems, they can control software development. >
TL;DR: It is shown that automation of a function cannot be associated with lower average costs for that function, and previous experience and business volume are identified as predictors of automation adoption.
Abstract: The pattern of automation of business functions in banks is analyzed. Previous experience with automation and business volume of a function are identified as predictors of automation adoption. It is shown that automation of a function cannot be associated with lower average costs for that function. >
TL;DR: This article explored the causal relations among job challenge, work load, and job performance of a group of young engineers during their first industrial work assignments as co-op engineers in college, then three years later as professional engineers.
Abstract: The author explored the causal relations among job challenge, work load, and job performance of a group of young engineers during their first industrial work assignments as coop engineers in college, then three years later as professional engineers. Causal relations among the three key variables were analyzed using both path analysis and the method of cross-lagged correlation differentials. The results showed that the job challenge and work load not only have direct causal effects on current job performance they also have indirect causal effect on current job performance. Moreover, work load was found to have a more dominant effect on job performance than job challenge. This study points out how different causal assumptions can lead to different interpretations of observed results by prior researchers as well as different theories of professional development for young engineers. Overall, the findings support the proposition that it is work experience that determines job performance. The implications of the present findings for management policy are also discussed. >
TL;DR: Overall, the findings indicate that the engineer-students perceive their employers could do substantially more to facilitate the former's transition from engineer to manager.
Abstract: Prior research on transitioning from engineer to manager has focused largely on the content or mix of managerial skills required to make the transition. The current research proposes that this transition be viewed as part of a complex process occurring within the context of social exchange theory. A simple conceptual model is proposed which suggests that the transition involves three parties: the engineer-student, the employer-organization, and the university-college offering formal management degree curriculum. Termed a dynamic tension model, the process perspective clarifies the costs, benefits, and expectations for each of these parties; identifies many of the tensions and dysfunctions likely to emerge between the parties; and suggests actions each party should initiate to facilitate a smoother, more effective transition. Overall, the findings indicate that the engineer-students perceive their employers could do substantially more to facilitate the former's transition from engineer to manager. Possible remedial actions are discussed. >
TL;DR: In a study of four laboratories, it was found that a majority of nonsupervisory technical professionals did administrative work and the more managerial potential they showed, demonstrating technical competence, having managerial career interests, and performing technical leadership roles the more they did moderated administrative work as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Most models of technical careers assume that scientists and engineers either remain in technical work throughout their careers or move into management. The authors explore a third possibility: administrative activity for those on the technical path. In a study of four laboratories, it was found that a majority of nonsupervisory technical professionals did administrative work. Moreover, the more managerial potential they showed-demonstrating technical competence, having managerial career interests, and performing technical leadership roles-the more they did moderated administrative work. Involving nonsupervisors showing managerial potential in moderated administrative activity can help develop their management skills and increase further their managerial potential. Involvement in administrative activity, therefore, can help those nonsupervisors develop their careers and become candidates for promotion into management. >
TL;DR: Results show that it is information distribution and not information production that has experienced explosive growth during the last century in the US.
Abstract: An examination is made of data collected to measure patterns of information growth during the last century in the US. Results show that it is information distribution and not information production that has experienced explosive growth during the time frame. >
TL;DR: This article measured general innovation-related organizational politics and project-specific organizational politics (PSOP) at the formulation and implementation stages of the technological innovation process, and found that OP is a multidimensional phenomenon.
Abstract: While there is a growing literature on organizational politics (OP), the phenomenon has not been operationalized in a way that can be useful for analyzing the technological innovation process. To address this gap, OP was measured along two dimensions: general innovation-related organizational politics (GIOP) and project-specific organizational politics (PSOP) at the formulation and implementation stages of the technological innovation process. Results support the authors' contention that OP is a multidimensional phenomenon. >
TL;DR: In this paper, a test of an online computerized database (OCDB) usefulness in tracking eight issues over a two-and-a-half-year period is reported, and the test was part of a trade and economic development project focused on the Caribbean basin.
Abstract: Online computerized databases (OCDBs) are increasingly being used within organizations for assessing large volumes of information. their use in the environmental scanning process remains relatively limited, however. A test of an OCDBs usefulness in tracking eight issues over a two-and-a-half-year period is reported. The test was part of a trade and economic development project focused on the Caribbean basin. While some methodological and operational questions remain, results suggest that OCDBs can be a powerful addition to the repertoire of information technologies available to researchers and organizations in understanding and managing the impact of issues. >