Showing papers in "Kybernetes in 2018"

Knowledge sharing mechanisms in the education: A systematic review of the state of the art literature and recommendations for future research

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive and detailed review of the state-of-the-art mechanisms of knowledge sharing in the education field as well as directions for future research,In the current study, a systematic literature review until June 2017 is presented, which has been on the education’s mechanisms of knowledge sharing The authors identified 237 papers, which are reduced to 71 primary studies through the paper selection process,By providing the state-of-the-art information, the challenges and issues, this survey will directly support academics, researchers and practicing professionals in their understanding of knowledge sharing developments in education,There are several limitations in this study First, this study limited the search for articles to Google scholar and four online databases There might be other academic journals, which may be able to provide a more comprehensive picture of the articles related to the knowledge sharing in education Second, non-English publications were excluded from this study The authors believe research regarding the application of knowledge sharing techniques have also been discussed and published in other languages In addition, more studies need to be carried out using other methodologies such as interviews,The paper presents a comprehensive structured literature review of the articles’ mechanisms of knowledge sharing in the education field The paper’s findings can offer insights into future research needs

Recommender systems: A systematic review of the state of the art literature and suggestions for future research

Abstract: Purpose This paper aims to identify, evaluate and integrate the findings of all relevant and high-quality individual studies addressing one or more research questions about recommender systems and performing a comprehensive study of empirical research on recommender systems that have been divided into five main categories. To achieve this aim, the authors use systematic literature review (SLR) as a powerful method to collect and critically analyze the research papers. Also, the authors discuss the selected recommender systems and its main techniques, as well as their benefits and drawbacks in general. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, the SLR method is utilized with the aim of identifying, evaluating and integrating the findings of all relevant and high-quality individual studies addressing one or more research questions about recommender systems and performing a comprehensive study of empirical research on recommender systems that have been divided into five main categories. Also, the authors discussed recommender system and its techniques in general without a specific domain. Findings The major developments in categories of recommender systems are reviewed, and new challenges are outlined. Furthermore, insights on the identification of open issues and guidelines for future research are provided. Also, this paper presents the systematical analysis of the recommender system literature from 2005. The authors identified 536 papers, which were reduced to 51 primary studies through the paper selection process. Originality/value This survey will directly support academics and practical professionals in their understanding of developments in recommender systems and its techniques.

Sustainable development of agriculture: a system dynamics model

Abstract: Purpose Sustainable development is the management and conservation of the basic natural resources through which organizational and technological changes are lead to meet present and future needs of humans. In developing and analyzing the solutions based on sustainable development principles, an integrated and holistic approach needs to be pursued. Not only system dynamics has the essential tools for systemic analysis, but also it is an appropriate approach for perceiving problems and offering solutions. The aim of this study is to present an integrated and systemic model to analyze the existent dynamics in sustainable development of Iran’s farming industry. Design/methodology/approach To achieve the mathematical equations and values of model’s variables, a simulation is carried out using the data gathered from Damavand city, Tehran, Iran. The parameters of the model are selected and calculated considering the specifications of this case study. After modeling the system, Vensim simulation software has been employed, followed by identifying the leverage points of the model; then, a set of scenarios have been generated and tested through simulation to achieve a much improved understanding of the system’s dynamic behavior. Findings The results show that two factors are among the most important leverage points: “profit gained from agriculture” and “required water”. The authors could also observe that the main issue in Damavand is the lack of water for which saving policies would be a major step toward agriculture’s sustainable development in this area. Originality/value The paper shows how System Dynamics simulation approach can provide deep insights into the field of sustainable development and present efficient policies for agriculture sustainability.

Evaluation of ecotourism sites: a GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis

Abstract: The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential geographic locations for ecotourism activities and to select the best one among alternatives.,The proposed model consists of four sequential phases. In the first phase, different geographic criteria are determined based on existing literature, and data are gathered using GIS. On equal criteria weighing, alternative locations are determined using GIS in the second phase. In the third phase, the identified criteria are weighted using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) by various stakeholders of potential ecotourism sites. In the fourth phase, the PROMETHEE method is applied to determine the best alternative based on the weighted criteria.,A framework including four sequential steps is proposed. Using real data from the Black Sea region in Turkey, the authors test the applicability of the evaluation approach and compare the best alternative obtained by the proposed method for nine cities in the region. Consequently, west of Sinop, east of Artvin and south of the Black Sea region are determined as very suitable locations for ecotourism.,The first limitation of the study is considered the number of included criteria. Another limitation is the use of deterministic parameters that do not cope with uncertainty. Further research can be conducted for determining the optimum locations for different types of tourism, e.g. religion tourism, hunting tourism and golf tourism, for effective tourism planning.,The proposed approach can be applied to all area that cover the considered criteria. The approach has been tested in the Black Sea region (nine cities) in Turkey.,Using the proposed approach, decision-makers can determine locations where environmentally responsible travel to natural areas to enjoy and appreciate nature that promotes conservation have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active socioeconomic involvement of local individuals.,To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first study which applies a GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making approach for ecotourism site selection.

Organizational capabilities and knowledge management success: a quartet of case studies

Abstract: Purpose The aim of this paper is to understand the role of organizational capabilities in knowledge management (KM) success pattern and how KM initiatives can be designed for organizational success. Design/methodology/approach The authors adopted a qualitative, descriptive case study research design to study the complex contextual issue of organizational capabilities and its role in KM success of information technology companies. Findings Findings of the study indicate that success of KM is not only bound by its processes but also by key infrastructure which can either promote or inhibit KM. To realize KM success, infrastructure capabilities have to be supported by knowledge process capabilities and vice versa. Research limitations/implications Future research can continue to examine organizational capabilities from the perspective of teams or business units in contrast to the organization. Originality/value This paper adds valuable empirical insights from Indian standpoint to the existing KM literature concerning preconditions of success and failure of KM initiatives in companies.

Measurement of shock effect following change of one-child policy based on grey forecasting approach

Abstract: Purpose This paper aims to analyze general development trend of China’s population and to forecast China’s total population under the change of China’s family planning policy so as to measure shock disturbance effects on China’s population development. Design/methodology/approach China has been the most populous country for hundreds of years. And this state will be sustained in the forthcoming decade. Obviously, China is confronted with greater pressure on controlling total scale of population than any other country. Meanwhile, controlling population will be beneficial for not only China but also the whole world. This paper first analyzes general development trend of China’s population total amount, sex ratio and aging ratio. The mechanism for measurement of the impact effect of a policy shock disturbance is proposed. Linear regression model, exponential curve model and grey Verhulst model are adopted to test accuracy of simulation of China’s total population. Then considering the policy shock disturbance on population, discrete grey model, DGM (1, 1), and grey Verhulst model were adopted to measure how China’s one-child policy affected its total population between 1978 and 2015. And similarly, the grey Verhulst model and scenario analysis of economic developing level were further used to forecast the effect of adjustment from China’s one-child policy to two-child policy. Findings Results show that China has made an outstanding contribution toward controlling population; it was estimated that China prevented nearly 470 million births since the late 1970s to 2015. However, according to the forecast, with the adjustment of the one-child policy, the birth rate will be a little higher, China’s total population was estimated to reach 1,485.59 million in 2025. Although the scale of population will keep increasing, but it is tolerable for China and sex ratio and trend of aging will be relieved obviously. Practical implications The approach constructed in the paper can be used to measure the effect of population change under the policy shock disturbance. It can be used for other policy effect measurement problems under shock events’ disturbance. Originality/value The paper succeeded in studying the mechanism for the measurement of the post-impact effect of a policy and the effect of changes in China’s population following the revision of the one-child policy. The mechanism is useful for solving system forecasting problems and can contribute toward improving the grey decision-making models.

A novel fuzzy risk matrix based risk assessment approach

Abstract: Traditional risk assessment (RA) methodologies cannot model vagueness in risk and cannot prioritize corrective-preventive measures (CPMs) by considering effectiveness of those on risk types (RTs). These cannot combine and reflect accurately different subjective opinions and cannot be used in a linguistic manner. Risk factors (RFs) are assumed to have the same importance and interrelations between RFs are not considered. This study aims to overcome these disadvantages by combining fuzzy logic with multi-criteria decision-making in a dynamic manner.,This study proposes a novel three-stage fuzzy risk matrix-based RA integrating fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (F-DEMATEL) and fuzzy multi-attributive border approximation area comparison (F-MABAC). At the first stage, importance weights of RFs are computed by F-DEMATEL. At the second stage, risk degrees of RTs are computed via using fuzzy risk matrix. At the third stage, CPMs are ranked by F-MABAC. Finally, a numerical example for RA in a warehouse is given.,Results show that developing instructions for material loading or unloading is the most important CPM and severity is the most important RF for the warehouse.,This study has originality in terms of having fuzzy dynamic structure. At first, RFs are assumed to be criteria sets then, RTs are assumed to be criteria set considering their risk degrees to rank CPMs in a fuzzy manner. Risk degrees of RTs are used for weights of RTs and effectiveness of CPMs are used for performance values of CPMs.

An integrative model of knowledge sharing in Malaysian Higher Learning Institute

Abstract: This paper aims to understand the factors that can determine the knowledge sharing (KS) intention and behaviour of academics in Malaysian higher learning institutes (HLIs), thus affecting academics research productivity.,The study’s respondents were 525 academics from public and private HLI in Malaysia. This study adapts theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and social capital theory (SCT) to determine academics KS intention and behaviour of academics and the factors that can influence along the KS process.,Results indicate that among the factors of academics KS behaviour, there are two factors that are not significant, commitment and perceived cost, while the rest showed significant results. The strongest factors are management support and social media use among academics. The result also shows that academics intention to share is explained by 62.1 per cent of the variance, while academics KS behaviour is explained by 47.1 per cent of the variance.,This study shows the high intention and behaviour of sharing among Malaysian academics and suggests that academics in this country are cautious and aware of the importance of knowledge for human capital and development of nation.,This paper facilitates university in hiring academics that support KS activities.,The integration of TPB and SCT in evaluating Malaysian academics KS behaviour can eventually affect the research productivity. Furthermore, addition of several variables, such as perceived cost, facilitating conditions make this study a holistic model to predict academic research performance.

Wholesale-retail pricing strategies under market risk and uncertain demand in supply chain using evolutionary game theory

Abstract: Nowadays, uncertainty in market demand poses considerable risk to the retailers that supply the market. On the other hand, the risk-averse behaviors of retailers toward risk may have evolved over time. Considering a supply chain including a manufacturer and a population of retailers, the authors intend to investigate how the population of retailers tends to evolve toward risk-averse behavior. Moreover, this study aims to evaluate the effects of wholesale-retail price of manufacturer on evolutionary stable strategy (ESS) of the retailers.,Due to market uncertainty, a supply chain with a population of risk-averse and risk-neutral retailers was investigated. The wholesale pricing strategy is determined by a manufacturer acting as a leader, while retailers who make order quantity decisions act as followers. An integrated Cournot duopoly equilibrium and evolutionary game theory (EGT) approach has been used to model this situation.,A numerical real-world case study using Iran Khodro Company is analyzed by applying the proposed EGT approach. The study provides managerial insights to the manufacturer as well as retailers in developing their strategies. Results showed that risk behavior of retailers significantly affects optimal wholesale/retail price, profits and ESS. In the long term, the retailers tend to have a risk-neutral behavior to gain more profit. In the short term, if a retailer choses risk-averse strategy, in the long term, it will change its strategy to obtain more profit and remain in the competitive market.,The contributions in this research are fourfold. First, ESS concept to investigate the risk-averse or risk-neutral attitudes of the retailers was used. Second, the uncertain risk behavior of the competing retailers was considered. Third, the effect of varying wholesale pricing was investigated. Fourth, the equilibrium wholesale and retail prices have been obtained by considering uncertainty demand and risk.

eHealth and health informatics competences: A systemic analysis of literature production based on bibliometrics

Abstract: The rapid development of eHealth requires the extension of existing health informatics competences sets. These competences are needed not only by health-care professionals but also by health-care consumers. The purpose of this paper is to analyse literature production of health informatics and eHealth competences/skills (EHCS).,Bibliometric analysis and mapping have been used as a form of distant reading approach in the manner to perform thematic analysis, identify gaps in knowledge and predict future trends.,This study shows that the literature production of health informatics and EHCS differs in bibliometric indicators, as well as in research content. Thematic analysis showed that medicine is the most productive subject area in both fields. However, health informatics competencies/skills are more oriented toward education, nursing, electronic health record and evidence-based practice, while EHCS cover health information technology, engineering, computer science and patient-centred care. The literature research production exhibits positive trend and is geographically widespread in both fields.,The use of Scopus database might have led to different results if the authors had used Web of Science or Medline, because of the fact that different databases cover different lists of source titles. The authors used various search strings, and the most optimal one for their study; however, a different search string might result in slightly different outcomes. In addition, the thematic analysis has been performed on information source abstracts and titles only, as the analysis of full texts (if available) could lead to different results. Despite the fact that the thematic analysis has been performed by three researchers with different scientific backgrounds, the results of the analysis are subjective. On the other hand, the bibliometric analyses and comparison of health informatics and eHealth competences have never been done before and this study revealed some important gaps in research in both fields.,The World Health Organization defined four distinct but related components of eHealth: mobile health, health information systems, telemedicine and distance learning. While the research in telemedicine and health information systems seems to be well covered, the skills and competencies in mobile health and distant learning should be researched more extensively.,More research in the skills and competencies associated with so-called connected health, a new subfield in eHealth research, is needed. The skills and competencies of how to better implement and use the services related to the management of chronic diseases, health coproduction and how to implement eHealth in developing countries are currently under research areas and with candidates for future research. For both health informatics competencies/skills and EHCS, we noted that more research is needed for personalised medicine, health coproduction, smart health, internet of things, internet of services and intelligent health systems.,The literature production on health informatics and EHCS has been analysed for the first time and been compared in a systemic way, using bibliometrics. The results reveal that current research directions as well as knowledge gaps could thus provide guidelines for further research.

A developed genetic algorithm for solving the multi-objective supply chain scheduling problem

Abstract: Proper management of supplies and their delivery greatly affects the competitiveness of companies. This paper aims to propose an integrated decision-making approach for integrated transportation and production scheduling problem in a two-stage supply chain. The objective functions are minimizing the total delivery tardiness, production cost and the emission by suppliers and vehicles and maximizing the production quality.,First, the mathematical model of the problem is presented. Consequently, a new algorithm based on a combination of the genetic algorithm (GA) and the VIKOR method in multi-criteria decision-making, named GA-VIKOR, is introduced. To evaluate the efficiency of GA-VIKOR, it is implemented in a pharmaceutical distribution company located in Iran and the results are compared with those obtained by the previous decision-making process. The results are also compared with a similar algorithm which does not use the VIKOR method and other algorithm mentioned in the literature. Finally, the results are compared with the optimized solutions for small-sized problems.,Results indicate the high efficiency of GA-VIKOR in making decisions regarding integrated production supply chain and transportation scheduling.,This research aids the manufacturers to minimize their total delivery tardiness and production cost and at the same time maximize their production quality. These improve the customer satisfaction as a part of social and manufacturer’s power of competitiveness. Furthermore, the emission minimizing objective functions directly provides benefits to the environment and the society.,This paper investigates a new supply chain scheduling the problems and presents its mathematical formulation. Moreover, a new algorithm is introduced to solve the multi-objective problems.

Relationships among advanced manufacturing technology, innovation, export, and firm performance: Empirical evidence from Turkish manufacturing companies

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to find the relationships among advanced manufacturing technology (AMT), innovation, export and firm performance by using data obtained from 310 Turkish manufacturing firms.,A survey study was performed to obtain data from manufacturing firms. Multiple-item scales were adapted from the literature to conduct the survey in this study. Data were collected from five cities located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region in Turkey (Gaziantep, Adiyaman, Kilis, Diyarbakir and Sanliurfa). Structural equation modeling was utilized to investigate the relationships among AMT, innovation, export and firm performance in Turkish manufacturing firms operating in several industries. The direct and indirect relations between these variables are examined in the proposed conceptual model. In addition, the complex relations including in the proposed model are assessed in detail through the mediation analysis.,Six of the proposed ten hypotheses related to manufacturers are validated by the empirical evidence from manufacturing companies in Turkey. Significant findings obtained in this study include the following: there are strong positive associations between the use of AMT and innovation and between export and firm performance. In addition, innovation mediates the relationship between AMT and firm performance and between AMT and export. Finally, export mediates the relationship between AMT and firm performance and between innovation and firm performance. It is expected that the results obtained from this empirical analysis will help decision makers and managers to construct a good technology and production management strategy for manufacturing systems.,In this study, a novel conceptual model is proposed to examine the relationships among AMT, innovation, export and firm performance via the use of survey responses from 310 Turkish manufacturing firms. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first study that proposes such a conceptual model in the literature.

Antecedents and consequences of organizational ambidexterity: the moderating role of networking

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a holistic model regarding the antecedents and consequences of organizational ambidexterity in the context of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly for developing countries such as Turkey. Moreover, this paper also aims to reveal the moderating role of networking between organizational ambidexterity and firm performance. Design/methodology/approach By studying 105 SMEs engaged in small business and technology development centers (SBTDCs), structural equation modeling through SmartPLS is executed. Findings The findings show that: discipline and support positively influence the formation and the maintenance of organizational ambidexterity; organizational ambidexterity significantly contributes to firm performance; and the greater the networking the greater the relationship between exploitation capability and firm performance. Originality/value To date, there has been no systematic attempt in the extant literature to develop a holistic manner of organizational ambidexterity, with its antecedents and consequences in the context of SMEs in general, in SMEs of a developing country, Turkey in particular. Moreover, the moderating role of networking between organizational ambidexterity and a firm’s performance has never been examined.

Investigating the role of social media in polio prevention in India: a Delphi-DEMATEL approach

Abstract: Purpose This study aims to evaluate the role of social media (SM) tools in polio prevention in an Indian context by using a hybrid Delphi-decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. Design/methodology/approach A preliminary list of suitable evaluation criteria was derived from an extensive literature review. Ten experts were then contacted to collect data and finalize the most prominent criteria by using the Delphi method. To establish cause-effect relationships among the criteria, further data were collected from 21 experts. The DEMATEL method was applied to process and interpret the data collected. Findings The analysis grouped criteria into two sets, i.e. cause and effect. The results show that awareness of social cause and government utilization of resources fall into the cause group; these elements are critical as both directly affect the remaining criteria. These outcomes can help government and businesses to utilize SM for public health surveillance, e.g. to promote schemes/initiatives through sites concerning polio or related health issues. Practical implications The findings of this research are useful for governments and individual companies to conceive their marketing initiatives akin to polio prevention issues by using SM. Originality/value Despite the emergence of SM, there has been little discussion in existing literature on their role in polio prevention; however, measuring such role could be useful in practice to help decision-makers in exploiting the potential of SM in the health-care context. To fill this gap, this study aims to measure the role of SM in polio prevention in the Indian context and to create a cause-effect evaluation model. Using an integrated Delphi-DEMATEL framework for decision-making in the health-care context is another novelty of this study.

Social laser model: from color revolutions to Brexit and election of Donald Trump

Abstract: Purpose This paper aims to present the basic assumptions for creation of social lasers and attract attention of other researchers (both from physics and socio-political science) to the problem of modeling of Stimulated Amplification of Social Actions (SASA). Design/methodology/approach The model of SASA and its analysis are based on the mathematical formalism of quantum thermodynamics and field theory (applied outside of physics). Findings The presented quantum-like model provides the consistent operational model of such complex socio-political phenomenon as SASA. Research limitations/implications The model of SASA is heavily based on the use of the notion of social energy. This notion has not yet been formalized. Practical implications Evidence of SASA (“functioning of social lasers”) is rapidly accumulating, from color revolutions to such democratically structured protest actions as Brexit and the recent election of Donald Trump as the President of the USA. The corresponding socio-political studies are characterized by diversity of opinions and conclusions. The presented social laser model can be used to clarify these complex socio-political events and even predict their possibility. Social implications SASA is the powerful source of social instability. Understanding its informational structure and origin may help to stabilize the modern society. Originality/value Application of the quantum-like model of laser technology in social and political sciences is really a novel and promising approach.

Value-added service investment strategy of a two-sided platform with the negative intra-group network externality

Abstract: Considering the resource constraint, this paper aims to study how to make value-added service (VAS) investment strategy considering the negative intra-group network externality on the seller side from the perspective of a two-sided platform.,The authors use the dynamic game theory, optimization, sensitive analysis and numerical study in this research. The authors model their research question from the perspective of the dynamic game theory, and through optimizing the platform’s profit function, the equilibrium results in terms of VAS investing and pricing strategies are derived. To explore the characteristics of the optimal strategies, sensitive analysis is used, and numerical studies are conducted to further illustrate the analytical results.,It is found that the intra-group network externality is not necessarily the determinant for VAS investment strategy, and its overall negative impact can be overtaken by the investment in certain conditions. The optimal VAS investment level decreases in the negative intra-group network externality. Though the VAS investment is on the seller side, it has either positive or negative impact on the pricing for buyers. Moreover, for a stronger intra-group network externality among sellers, the two-sided prices could either increase or decrease.,The authors implicate how the intra-group network externality reduces the investment benefit and impacts the other side users. The limitation of considering the intra-group network externalities on only one side needs further extension.,The authors provide insights for platform operators in how to use recourse to improve users’ utility and how to price the two sides when competition exists on the seller side.,This study specifies the role of negative intra-group network externality in determining the investment and pricing strategy of a two-sided platform in addition to the positive inter-group network externality.

A model for examining the factors impacting the near field communication technology adoption in the organizations

Abstract: Organizations are social entities comprising multiple people that are goal-directed and have coordinated activities that are also linked to the external environment. As information technology improves, the organizational performance is also improved and it results in positive changes and development in the organizations. Near field communication (NFC) is one of such technologies that can be implemented and utilized in an organization. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the important variables impacting the adoption of NFC in organizations and propose an applicable model for it.,In this paper, to have a successful NFC implementation in organizations and analyze main factors impacting the NFC technology adoption in organizations, a technology acceptance model-based approach is used.,The findings show that the main variables impacting NFC adoption are ease of use, potential risk, usefulness and cost. The obtained results indicate that the model has adequate and sufficient reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity.,In this paper, the factors impacting the NFC adoption in organizations are pointed out, and the proposed model is tested on samples gathered from Azerbaijan railway employees and for statistical analysis of questionnaires, the SMART-PLS 2.0 software package is used.

New online recommendation approach based on unbalanced linguistic label with integrated cloud

Abstract: Online reviews increasingly present the characteristic of bidirectional communication with the advent of Web 2.0 era and tend to be asymmetrical and individualized in linguistic information. The authors aim to develop a new linguistic conversion model that exploits the asymmetric and personalized information from online reviews to express such linguistic information. A new online recommendation approach is provided.,The necessity of new linguistic conversation model is elucidated, and a leverage factor is incorporated into the linguistic label of negative review to handle the asymmetry problems of linguistic scale. A possible value range of the leverage factor is studied. A new linguistic conversation model is accordingly established with an unbalanced linguistic label and a cloud model. The authors develop a new online recommendation approach based on several modules, such as initialization, conversion, user-clustering and recommendation models.,The unbalanced effect between negative and positive reviews is verified with real data and measured using indirect methods. A new online recommendation approach of electronic products is proposed and used as an illustrative example to prove the practicality, effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed approach.,Due to the unavailable transaction information of customers, the limitation of this study is the effectiveness of the authors’ established recommendation system for platform or website cannot be verified.,In most existing studies, the influence of negative review is counterbalanced by positive review, and the unbalanced effect between negative and positive reviews is ignored. The negative review receives much attention from consumers and businesses. This study thus highlights the influence of negative review.

Cooperation and coopetition among humanitarian organizations: A game theory approach

Abstract: Purpose In the past two decades, the growth in the number and severity of disasters causes a rapid increase in the presence of NGOs for more effective response and efficient management of disasters. The NGOs must spend part of their resources on attracting funds to fulfill their humanitarian goals. However, limited number of donors and received contributions leads to a competition among NGOs for fundraising. Therefore, managing the relationship between these organizations and donors is very important. This paper aims to examine the competitive and coopetitive behavior of NGOs to model the interaction. Design/methodology/approach To achieve this purpose, by using game theory, two mathematical programing models are presented to examine the two inter-organizational interactions among NGOs. Findings The results show that if the NGOs work together, all the organizations, donors and affected people will benefit, and the accrued disaster will be managed more efficiently. Practical implications The expressed benefits of coopetition of NGOs can be an incentive for them to work together to manage disasters effectively. Originality/value To the best of authors’ knowledge, no research has considered the impact of the coopetition of NGOs in achieving their social mission successfully. Therefore, this paper can be seen as a valuable resource in this field.

Optimal trade-in and third-party collection authorization strategies under trade-in subsidy policy

Abstract: This paper aims to study whether the recycling of a third party competes with the trade-in service of a manufacturer, and explores the optimal trade-in and third-party collection authorization strategies for the manufacturer,According to whether to authorize a third party to collect its used products, the manufacturer has two choices: one is not authorization (NA); the other is authorization (A) This paper uses profit-maximization model to investigate the optimal decisions of the manufacturer and the third party under NA and A, respectively, and then explores which choice is better for the manufacturer,It is observed that there is a competition between trade-in service and third-party recycling when the durability parameter of the used product is relatively small Moreover, when the durability parameter of the used product is relatively large, A is always better choice for the manufacturer; otherwise, NA is a better choice except for the case that the unit trade-in subsidy is low and the salvage of the used product is high,These results provide managerial insights for the manufacturer and the third party to make decisions in the field of recycling,This paper is among the first papers to study the competition between trade-in program and third party’s collecting program under government’s trade-in subsidy policy Moreover, this paper presents the conditions under which the manufacturer should authorize or not authorize the third party to collect its used products

Study on an airport gate assignment method based on improved ACO algorithm

Abstract: Purpose This study aims to propose a new airport gate assignment method to effectively improve the comprehensive operation capacity and efficiency of hub airport. Gate assignment is one of the most important tasks for airport ground operations, which assigns appropriate airport gates with high efficiency reasonable arrangement. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, on the basis of analyzing the characteristics of airport gates and flights, an efficient multi-objective optimization model of airport gate assignment based on the objectives of the most balanced idle time, the shortest walking distances of passengers and the least number of flights at apron is constructed. Then an improved ant colony optimization (ICQACO) algorithm based on the ant colony collaborative strategy and pheromone update strategy is designed to solve the constructed model to fast realize the gate assignment and obtain a rational and effective gate assignment result for all flights in the different period. Findings In the designed ICQACO algorithm, the ant colony collaborative strategy is used to avoid the rapid convergence to the local optimal solution, and the pheromone update strategy is used to quickly increase the pheromone amount, eliminate the interference of the poor path and greatly accelerate the convergence speed. Practical implications The actual flight data from Guangzhou Baiyun airport of China is selected to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the constructed multi-objective optimization model and the designed ICQACO algorithm. The experimental results show that the designed ICQACO algorithm can increase the pheromone amount, accelerate the convergence speed and avoid to fall into the local optimal solution. The constructed multi-objective optimization model can effectively improve the comprehensive operation capacity and efficiency. This study is a very meaningful work for airport gate assignment. Originality/value An efficient multi-objective optimization model for hub airport gate assignment problem is proposed in this paper. An improved ant colony optimization algorithm based on ant colony collaborative strategy and the pheromone update strategy is deeply studied to speed up the convergence and avoid to fall into the local optimal solution.

Lean-green manufacturing: the enabling role of information technology resource

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the existing knowledge about the relationships between information technology (IT), lean manufacturing (LM), organizational environmental issues and business performance. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to collect data from 122 elite manufacturers, and the hypothesized relationships were tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings IT competence in LM acts as a lower-order organizational capability, and its business value should be recognized through the intermediate roles of LM effectiveness and environmental management capability. Findings recommend that the net benefits of LM are mainly materialized through waste and pollution reduction and simplified implementation of proactive environmental practices. Research limitations/implications Among other limitations, relying on a rather small sample size and cross-sectional data of this research, and lack of generalizability of findings, tends to have certain limitations. An interesting direction for future research would be to extend this research by assessing interaction of other types of IT resources with LM and organizational environmental issues. Practical implications Both LM and proactive environmental management are information-intensive. Investment in both technological and human aspects of IT resource aimed at increasing the effectiveness of LM activities and proactive environmental practices is imperative for contemporary manufacturers. Originality/value This study introduces the IT capability of IT competence in LM and two organizational capabilities of LM effectiveness and environmental management capability. By doing so, the study highlights the significant role of organizational environmental issues in devising firms’ IT and advanced manufacturing technology investment strategies in LM context.

Modeling critical leadership competences for junior high school principals: A hybrid MCDM model combining DEMATEL and ANP

Abstract: Purpose Based on generic reviews of research on school leadership, this study aims to conceptualize an emerging leadership competence model for further prioritizing school leadership training needs by decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL)-based analytic network process (ANP). Targeting at a specific group of junior high school principals in Taiwan, the synthesized prioritization of core competences and competence indicators computed by DEMATEL-based ANP can be used as a blueprint for systematically developing school principal preparation programs elsewhere based on contextually specific needs and concerns. Design/methodology/approach For the purpose of detecting the priority of competences extracted from a plethora of literature in relation to school leaders’ skills, abilities and knowledge, a hybrid MCDM model, known as DEMATEL-based ANP, is used to snapshot critical leadership competences for tailoring the intended junior high school principal preparation program. Findings Results of global weight computations by DEMATEL-based ANP show that the overall prioritization of the five dimensions in ranking order are “Redesigning the organization,” “Related leadership practices,” “Setting Directions,” “Personal Characteristics” and “Developing People.” Factor-level analysis indicated that “Legality,” “Consensus Building,” “Shared Vision,” “Strategic Management,” “Authoritarianism,” “Modeling Behavior” and “High Performance Emphasis” were prioritized factors to be included in developing the intended school principal preparation program. Research limitations/implications Contextually based findings yielded from DEMATEL-based ANP would only be applicable to the target context under investigation. Generalizing the findings to junior high school principals elsewhere might not be appropriate. Methods introduced in this study are extensible to further studies aiming at shaping leadership trainings in other school settings to achieve maximum impact based on contextually specific needs. Limitations associated with sophisticated mathematical computations involved in performing high-leverage MCDM models would shed light on the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations between scholars, practitioners and methodologists. Practical implications To efficiently deliver training for junior high school principals, the prioritization of core competences and competence indicators solicited by DEMATEL-based ANP can be used as a scenario-based reference for planning the intended school principal preparation program planning, as well as a mechanism for selecting and evaluating potential and incumbent school principals with desired leadership competences. Originality/value This study has used DELATEL-based ANP as a decision-making tool to disclose a plethora of competences extracted from different threads in the literature into a prioritized competence framework that differs from past one-size-fit-all approach to design and plan school principal preparation programs.

A TOPSIS-based approach for sustainable layout design: activity relation chart evaluation

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this study is to propose an approach for assessing sustainability aspect of facility layouts. Activity relationship chart (ARC) is a widely used assistive tool for facility layout design which assesses closeness requirement among all pairs. In a typical ARC, there are six closeness ratings which may be assigned to each pair of departments. Ratings are evaluated by considering a single factor or an overall rating is provided. On the other hand, there may be more than one criterion which has to be evaluated separately and then a fair decision should be taken by considering the relative weight of factors. With this purpose in mind, ARC alternatives are evaluated on the basis of three factors which are environmental aspect, safety concerns and manufacturing efficiency factors by using TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) method. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, more than one ARC alternatives are evaluated by considering environmental, safety and manufacturing efficiency factors. Alternatives are then ranked via TOPSIS. An empirical case study is also presented to validate how effective the proposed model performs. Findings The TOPSIS method can be successfully used to choose the most sustainable ARC alternative appropriately by the help of experts. The proposed approach can be beneficial to researchers and practitioners for better understanding the ARC evaluation problem from the perspective of sustainability. Practical implications The obtained results confirm that the proposed model can assist practitioners in refining their decision processes, particularly in cases where there are many ARC alternatives to be considered. Originality/value This is the first time that this method is used in such a context. This study contributes to literature by presenting practical applications of TOPSIS in the ARC assessment field. It should be highlighted that there is no comparable research on the evaluation of ARCs using TOPSIS. Thus, this study fills the gap by providing an analytical approach in this area.

Knowledge management for construction organisations: a research agenda

Abstract: This paper aims to review the knowledge management (KM) processes, knowledge conversion modes and critical success factors (CSFs) and contextualise them to the construction setting to guide effective KM implementation.,This paper is conceptual in nature. It begins with a review of issues faced by construction organisations, which led them to consider implementing KM. This is followed by a comprehensive review of KM processes, knowledge conversion modes, KM CSFs and their application to the construction industry.,Based on the socialisation, externalisation, combination and internalisation (SECI) model, the knowledge conversion modes are discussed, linking them to the KM processes of knowledge creation, sharing, storage and application. The KM CSFs identified from construction literature suggest that they can be categorised into two groups, namely, factors within organisational control (managerial influence, technological influence and resource influence) and factors beyond organisational control (social influence, political influence, environmental influence, economic influence, industry influence and construction technology influence). The resulting review is discussed in terms of how construction organisations can implement KM effectively to achieve the desired project performance outcomes in terms of time, cost and quality.,Although this paper has made some theoretical contributions, a quantitative analysis will further reinforce its value both in theory and practice, particularly in terms of applying the KM processes and CSFs to different organisational, industry and country settings. A quantitative research is being carried out in the major construction sector in Sri Lanka to establish the relationships between the KM processes, knowledge conversion modes and KM CSFs with project performance outcomes, which will be reported in a subsequent publication.,As the construction industry uses a considerable number of knowledge workers, implementing KM for project planning and execution is the key to sustaining the growth of construction organisations and industry, particularly when KM implementation is linked to project performance outcomes. Practical implications are provided in terms of what successful KM implementation entails.,Effective KM implementation can serve as a conduit for construction organisations to build capacity and develop the ability to react quickly to social challenges brought about by different stakeholders, even before the project commences, so that the project performance outcomes will not be affected. Another social implication is the role played by project team members, in which efforts have to be put in place to facilitate the use of KM processes, so that teams can align project activities to the general good of their organisations.,A comprehensive KM framework that guides the construction industry on KM implementation is long overdue. This research represents the first of such attempts to view KM from a wider perspective, both in terms of internal and external influences affecting construction organisations. Once the conceptual framework developed is validated, it is expected to bring enormous benefits to different stakeholders.

Investigating the influence of unlearning on knowledge management in sport organizations

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of unlearning on knowledge management (KM) in sport organizations.,The research method in this study was the descriptive–correlative type. Subjects in this research included all the employees of sport and youth organizations in Iran. To analyze the research data, inferential statistics including exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation model were used. A theoretical model was developed and tested based on the literature review. Data were analyzed via SPSS and LISREL software.,The results from the study illustrate that there were significant relationships among all dimensions of unlearning and dimensions of KM. Furthermore, the model of the influence of unlearning on KM, as well as the model of the influence of dimensions of unlearning on KM, illustrates proper finesses.,Through this study, the positive fundamental role of considering the processes of managing unlearning and avoiding bad habits as two coordinator tools to achieve tangible assesses in organizations is revealed and the significance of considering such studies is specified for researchers. This study supported the members of sport organizations to understand how to improve knowledge and experience of the employees through unlearning.

Analyzing Big Data through the lens of customer knowledge management: Evidence from a set of regional tourism experiences

Abstract: This paper aims to demonstrate how customer knowledge management (CKM) can opportunely support the process of value creation from Big Data. Focusing on tourism as a knowledge-intensive industry, the paper tries to contribute to the debate on management of Big Data by proposing CKM as a meaningful approach for transforming the huge amount of data available on social networks into valuable assets for competitiveness of tourism destinations.,The paper adopts a qualitative research methodology based on multiple exploratory case studies identified in a set of digital local events related to the Apulia destination (southern Italy).,Research findings demonstrate that the three dimensions of CKM (knowledge for, from and about customers) could be adopted as lens for analyzing the huge amount of data created for, from and about tourist experiences and for transforming them into valuable assets supporting the competitiveness of tourism destinations.,Limitations are related to the industry and the regional dimension of the sample. Accordingly, more research is necessary to prove the validity of the approach and to assure its larger replicability.,Implications for the agenda of organizations and destinations’ makers for designing and implementing knowledge-based services and products arise.,Elements of originality reside into the adoption of CKM as framework to analyze Big Data in the tourism industry.

Selection of Six Sigma project with interval data: common weight DEA model

Abstract: This paper aims to prioritize the most efficient Six Sigma project that can generate the greatest benefit to the organization, according to the relative performance among a set of homogenous projects (in here, DMUs). The selection of a Six Sigma project is a multiple-criteria decision-making problem, which is difficult in practice because the projects are not yet complete and the values of evaluation indicators are often interval or imprecise data. Managers stress the need for developing an effective performance evaluation methodology for selecting a Six Sigma project.,This study proposes a modified model considering interval or imprecise data based on common weight data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach to solve problems on project selection.,By comparing its findings with an example from a previous study, the new model obtained realistic and fair evaluation results and significantly reduced the difficulties and the time spent during calculation. Moreover, not only the best project is identified, but also the exact indicator information is obtained.,This study solves the problem of selecting the most efficient Six Sigma project in the preference of interval or imprecise data. Many studies have shown how a Six Sigma project is chosen, but only a few have integrated interval data into the selection process.

A new two-stage grey evaluation decision-making method for interval grey numbers

Abstract: In multi-criteria decision-making with interval grey number information, decision makers usually take a risk to rank or choose some very similar alternatives. Additionally, when evaluating only one alternative, decision makers can only obtain a specific value using traditional decision-making methods and may find it hard to cluster the alternatives to the “correct class” because these methods lack predetermined reference points. To overcome this problem, this paper aims to propose a two-stage grey decision-making method.,First, a new type of clustering method for interval grey numbers is designed by proposing a new possibility function for grey numbers. Based on this clustering method, a new grey clustering evaluation model for interval grey numbers is proposed by which decision makers can obtain the grade rating information of each alternative. Then, according to the grey clustering evaluation model, a new two-stage decision-making method is introduced to solve the problem that some alternatives are very similar by designing a grey comprehensive decision coefficient of alternatives.,The authors propose a new grey clustering evaluation model to deal with interval grey numbers. They design a new model to obtain the membership degree for the interval grey numbers and then propose a new grey clustering evaluation model, which can evaluate only one alternative by predefined grey classes. Then, by the grey comprehensive decision coefficient, a two-stage grey evaluation decision-making method is put forward to solve the problem that some alternatives are very close and hard to be distinguished.,A new grey clustering evaluation model is proposed, which can evaluate only one alternative by predefined grey classes. A two-stage grey evaluation decision-making method is given to solve the problem that some alternatives are very close and hard to be distinguished.

Key success factors for logistics provider enterprises: an empirical investigation in Iran

Abstract: Purpose This study aims to determine the key success factors of logistics provider enterprises in Iran, a country which has a significant potential for logistics activities among the Middle East countries, and connects the Asian, European and African logistics networks. Design/methodology/approach This study is an applied one in terms of goal and descriptive according to the data collection method. Survey analysis is conducted with 130 Iranian logistics provider firms. The 119 responses to the questionnaire are evaluated statistically, and thereafter, analytic hierarchy process and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methods are used to prioritize the obtained key success factors. Findings A comprehensive list of logistics provider firms’ key success factors are provided according to literature and opinion of experts. Among the aforementioned list, the authors found that management and leadership, internationalization and the competence of employees are the most important key success factors of logistics provider firms in Iran. Originality/value This is the first research that studies the key success factors of logistics provider firms in Iran. As Iran is an important intermediate country in the Middle East logistics corridor, it is worthy for practitioners and investors to know about success factors of logistics provider companies in Iran. In fact, focusing on the key success factors determined in this research assures the competitiveness of logistics provider firms in Iran. Moreover, the results can be also useful for some other countries in the Middle East such as Turkey and Emirates and can be used to enhance the logistical performance of the Middle East logistics network.