Showing papers in "Production Journal in 2015"

Lean philosophy and its applications in the service industry: a review of the current knowledge

Abstract: This article presents an in-depth bibliographic study about the creation, principles, evolution, and practices of the lean philosophy oriented to the services sector. More than 70 papers about “lean thinking” – specially with focus on services – have been carefully reviewed. It presents the principles of lean service in an organized way, companies applying lean service, and best practices and tools in the implementation of lean service. It shows that lean service does not have a single or specific model of tools, practices or standards. In fact, it is a mix of tools and practices that must be applied according the situation found to be improved. Despite the lack of a standards and methodology for use in services, its best practices, inherited from manufacturing, when applied to services can generate large economic and financial results, as well as improvement of workers’ behavior. But, like any change process, this study shows that the application of lean in services also suffers resistance. There might be limitations when evaluating lean practices and principles to services, specially those that have not yet been well defined and reported. Other limitations are due to the scarce articles in the literature. However, this research showed that the use of the lean philosophy in services proved to be effective and quite worthwhile. Several cases analyzed presented significant gains and confirmed an increasing and promising future for service companies “thinking lean”.

Challenges of the expansive use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in construction projects

Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) is an emerging modeling technology which challenges existing work procedures and practices in the construction industry. In this article we study the challenges, problems and potential expansions of BIM as a tool in the design, construction and operation of buildings. For this purpose the interfaces between different parties are examined in Finnish construction projects. The methodological approach of the study is cultural-historical activity theory, according to which a new artifact becomes a mediating instrument when the participatory subjects reconfigure the entire activity. The implementation of BIM is now spreading from the design activity to other phases of the construction projects, but its use is still limited in the projects' other three interfaces. BIM is an evolving set of software developed for various purposes which is locally 'combined' to fit the circumstances and capabilities of the stakeholders of the construction process.

Avaliação de Impacto do Ciclo de Vida: revisão dos principais métodos

Abstract: Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) is the third phase of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). It involves assessing the environmental significance of inventory results by using characterization models and factors contained in LCIA methods. This paper identifies the main LCIA methods and describes their characteristics. Through a literature review, 13 LCIA methods were identified. Most of them were developed in Europe and have been used throughout the world, including Brazil. Among these methods have been identified those with a global scope of application, being recommended for the use in Brazil. Each LCIA method evaluates different impact categories by means of a number of different characterization models, so it was concluded that there is a need to analyze the calculation procedures used by each model to provide support for the application of these methods and models in different regions of the world.

Work activities within sustainable development

Abstract: This paper presents the main results of a Franco-Brazilian Research project entitled “Work, Innovation and Development”. The aim is to conceptually consider work activity within sustainable development, and to contribute methodologically towards developing strategies for designing sustainable work systems. After a brief description of the factors and the dimensions that have contributed to the creation of ideas on sustainable development, we will put forward two main approaches for understanding work activity within the context of sustainability, these being: the durability of work activity and the development of work activities for sustainable development. Both approaches are presented and examples are given. This is followed by a discussion of the design of sustainable work systems that focuses particularly on the political and technical dimensions of project management.

Green manufacturing: uma análise da produção científica e de tendências para o futuro

Abstract: O objetivo deste artigo foi realizar uma analise da producao cientifica internacional na area de green manufacturing. Foi utilizada a base de dados Web of Science, tendo sido mapeados 239 artigos no periodo de 1991 a 2013. As publicacoes envolveram 589 autores, de 36 paises, 246 instituicoes e 142 diferentes periodicos/conferencias. Destaca-se que 51,4% dos artigos foram publicados nos ultimos cinco anos. Entre os paises mais prolificos destacaram-se os Estados Unidos e a China. O periodico mais prolifico foi o Journal of Cleaner Production, com 19 artigos no periodo. Sobre a analise de autoria, destacou-se a categoria one-timers, com 85,7% das publicacoes. A maior producao foi de 11 artigos por autor e o mais citado recebeu 368 citacoes. Conclui-se que a tematica teve uma ascensao expressiva nos ultimos anos, com foco em estudos teoricos e teorico-empiricos.

Determinants of recognition of TRACES certification as valuable opportunity at the farm level in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract: TRACES (Trade Control and Expert System) is a veterinary health network created by the European Union to certify and monitor trade of animal products. This research aims to identify the factors that explain why few Brazilian farmers recognized adoption of the TRACES certification as a valuable opportunity. A farm is required to adopt traceability and a set of associated technologies to obtain certification. A sample of 84 beef cattle farms provided data for the testing of the hypotheses by means of a bivariate logit model. The recognition of the opportunity is positively correlated with previous experience with other quality programs, access to up-to-date information, a more diversified life experience, and active participation in relationship networks.

Sucesso a partir de investimento em metodologias de gestão de projetos

Abstract: The objective of this work is to investigate the relationship between the adoption of project management methodologies and the project’s success. The methodological approach includes a longitudinal field research conducted in 3 countries: Argentina, Brazil and Chile, during a period of 3 years, in just one organization with full access to the information. Data from 1387 projects were obtained. The results show a positive and significant influence of the variables training and number of PMPs (Project Management Profissionals) on the success of the projects and a positive influence of the project methodology used on the time results, indicating benefits to the analyzed organization.

Enhancing Organizational Project Management Maturity: a framework based on the value focused thinking model

Abstract: Although organizational project management maturity models have been well explored, they have been criticized as being ineffective as firms continue to face difficulties in improving their project management practices. Based on a literature review, an alternative methodology was developed, and the arguments for the proposal were analyzed. The analysis demonstrated the importance of integrating a decision making model to develop initiatives toward project management institutionalization appropriate to the organizational context and strategies. This paper proposes a method for the maturity process supported by a problem structuring model: Value-Focused Thinking. This method integrates a reflective analysis into the maturity evaluation process to provide more efficient action plans. The proposed approach provides a new perspective for assessing and planning organizational project management maturity in terms of concentrating on the alignment with organizational strategies. A case study is presented to illustrate its applicability.

Economic valuation of a toll road concession with traffic guarantees and the abandonment option

Abstract: Governments worldwide have been encouraging private participation in transportation infrastructure. To increase the feasibility of a project, public-private partnership (PPP) may include guarantees or other support to reduce the risks for private investors. It is necessary to value these opportunities under a real options framework and thereby analyze the project's economic feasibility and risk allocation. However, within this structure, sponsors have an implicit option to abandon the project that should be simultaneously valued. Thus, this article proposes a hypothetical toll road concession in Brazil with a minimum traffic guarantee, a maximum traffic ceiling, and an implicit abandonment option. Different combinations of the minimum and maximum levels are presented, resulting in very high or even negative value added to the net present value (NPV). The abandonment option impacts the level of guarantee to be given. Governments should calibrate an optimal level of guarantees to avoid unnecessarily high costs, protect the returns of the sponsor, and lower the probability of abandonment.

Gestão do conhecimento: uma análise baseada em fatores contextuais da organização

Abstract: The latest models of Knowledge Management (KM) recognize four phases: acquisition, storage, distribution and use of knowledge. KM is characterized as a multidisciplinary field, involving both technical and social facets. Due to the diversity of issues surrounding this topic, it is essential to define their study. This research is based on social and coordination studies that seek to identify contextual factors developed internally in organizations that support the KM process in the automotive industry. To achieve this goal, a quantitative research method based on a surveys was used. The results point to the existence of eight contextual factors that support KM. These factors are mainly related to the human beings responsible for the retention and transformation of common knowledge and the development of an organizational context that encourages the learning process.

Recomendações de usabilidade e acessibilidade para interface de telefone celular visando o público idoso

Abstract: This paper studies the relationship between the elderly and the mobile phone, and the research provides several recommendations that can help improve this interaction. Because mobile phones are the fastest-growing segment of electronic equipment in sales worldwide, this work investigates the use of mobile phones by the elderly to identify their needs, difficulties and understanding of the icons, classifications and grouping functions. A satisfaction questionnaire, card sorting and comprehension test icons were used to determine the results. Usability and accessibility recommendations were identified for the mobile interface to assist and guide interface developers during the design process. It was concluded that the elderly need easier functions, clearer terminology without double meaning, a friendlier interface and functions that are grouped according to their understanding.

Sustentabilidade e gestão de projetos: um estudo bibliométrico

Abstract: Os projetos conduzidos em empresas e organizacoes tem impactos no cenario imediato bem como em um futuro mais distante. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do trabalho e compreender a insercao de questoes de sustentabilidade na literatura de gestao de projetos. A metodologia mescla tecnicas de bibliometria, redes e analise de conteudo. Os resultados apontam que as publicacoes estao dispersas em termos de autor e revista. As tematicas remetem a questoes relacionadas aos stakeholders, inovacao e desenvolvimento de produto, com destaque para publicacoes na area da construcao civil. Observa-se uma tendencia, principalmente a partir de 2005, com presenca constante de artigos voltados ao pilar economico e aumento da participacao das abordagens social e ambiental. As pesquisas com o enfoque na tripla restricao - social, ambiental e economica - tiveram nos ultimos dois anos destaque no incremento. Ha oportunidades de pesquisa significativas, ja que as publicacoes estao longe de exaurir esse complexo tema.

Demographics of mass customization: a global study of manufacturing plants

Abstract: This study explores the demographic configuration of mass customization (MC) manufacturing plants. It uses cluster analysis, ANOVA and correspondence analysis to test for differences in business unit size, location, and supply chain structure between MC and non-MC producers across the globe. The analysis uses data from an international survey of manufacturers of metal products, machinery, and instruments from 21 countries. Results indicate no significant differences in size, but significant differences in location and supply chain indicators between MC and non-MC plants. We also find renewed evidence of the positioning of MC plants in Hayes & Wheelwright's (1979) product and process matrix.

Using multi-state markov models to identify credit card risk

Abstract: The main interest of this work is to analyze the application of multi-state Markov models to evaluate credit card risk by investigating the characteristics of different state transitions in client-institution relationships over time, thereby generating score models for various purposes. We also used logistic regression models to compare the results with those obtained using multi-state Markov models. The models were applied to an actual database of a Brazilian financial institution. In this application, multi-state Markov models performed better than logistic regression models in predicting default risk, and logistic regression models performed better in predicting cancellation risk.

Modelo de alinhamento estratégico de produção – MAP: contribuição teórica para a área de estratégia de produção

Abstract: The motivating factor behind the current work comes from previous studies on approaches to strategic production and from the development process of strategic production. The study was also driven by assessments of the competitive development of strategic production in a specific productive unit, such as the strategic power of its function of production, which goes beyond understanding the link between the competitive priorities and the decision production area. Thus, the strategic alignment of production (SAP) model was proposed, which explores this assessment of development using four levels of inter-related analysis: level 1 – the competitive positions in the company and manufacturing; level 2 – the competitive position and the strategic paradigm of manufacturing management; level 3 – the strategic paradigm of both the manufacture gesture and the production strategy; and level 4 – competitive priorities and the value network operation. The proposed model is an important theoretical tool for the orientation, assessment and analysis of the importance of strategic production within companies.

Estudo comparativo das ferramentas para mapeamento das atividades executadas pelos consumidores em processos de serviço

Abstract: The objective of this article is to explore the potential application of mapping tools to build process maps that bring into view the activities performed by consumers in service processes. The article addresses a set of tools, namely, SIPOC, Flowchart, Blueprint, Process-Chain-Network, Consumption Map, SERVPRO, and Activity Chart, exemplifying their application in the building of maps that offer different visions for an online shopping process undertaking the approach of hierarchical decomposition in the analysis of a consumer’s activities flow. These tools are analyzed with regard to their capacity to represent the different aspects of the mapped process, considering characteristics such as the graphic representation form and the focal points, scope, and granularity of the visualization they provide. Finally, a comparative evaluation of the informative capacity of these tools is presented, which highlights the distinct attributes of each one.

A decision model for energy companies that sorts projects, classifies the project manager and recommends the final match between project and project manager

Abstract: This study presents an integrated model to support the process of classifying projects and selecting project managers for these projects in accordance with their characteristics and skills using a multiple criteria decision aid (MCDA) approach. Such criteria are often conflicting. The model also supports the process of allocating project managers to projects by evaluating the characteristics/types of projects. The framework consists of a set of structured techniques and methods that are deemed very appropriate within the context of project management. A practical application of the proposed model was performed in a Brazilian electric energy company, which has a portfolio of projects that are

Changes in working conditions for home healthcare workers and impacts on their work activity and on their emotions

Abstract: Home healthcare is steadily growing in many countries. Nevertheless, it is known that home healthcare workers are frequently exposed to a variety of potentially serious occupational hazards. Working conditions have changed to become more emotionally and physically demanding on workers. Emotional labor is increasingly high in this profession. Time pressure is increasingly common. This paper describes an ergonomic study analyzing the working conditions of nursing assistants and nurses, as well as the impacts of their work in terms of job satisfaction, emotions at work, relationships with the others, and occupational stress. The study shows that changing working conditions are making it increasingly difficult for home healthcare workers to do their work properly. We can confirm that such workers use strategies to try to cope. They use individual strategies to preserve the relational dimension of their work activity. These strategies are specifically centered around preserving the relationships with patients, and coping with the demands of the job. The study also shows that workers use strategies to express emotions and to conceal them from others. Finally, the paper presents the recommendations that were discussed with the manager and workers for improving working conditions and that led to practical proposals: e.g. implementing certain items of equipment better suited to difficult care, encouraging assistance between workers when operations so require through appropriate organizational measures, extending emotion-focused work discussion groups with management involvement.

Exploratory study regarding how cultural perspectives can influence the perceptions of project success in Brazilian companies

Abstract: Due to globalization and dynamic business environment, teams in companies are multicultural; as a result, culture may become an important aspect to be considered. The majority of articles regarding projects include factors of success and failure, but only a few embrace cultural perspectives. To provide more insight into the effects of cultural perspectives, this paper presents findings from an exploratory study that investigated how Brazilian information technology companies perceive project success and failure, and then makes inferences regarding the cultural factors. Interviews and questionnaires were applied, and the results provide insights for understanding how cultural factors may influence the project success perceptions. As the primary results, contributions regarding cultural perceptions are offered and related to different dimensions with a view to exploring the cultural aspects as determinant factors of success in a project management environment.

The work of bus drivers and their contribution to excellence in public transportation

Abstract: The article is the result of a survey aimed at analyzing the work of bus drivers for a collective urban transportation company that is considered a benchmark. The research sought to understand how the company could maintain a policy capable of reconciling the quality of public transportation with working conditions that are compatible with the professional development, comfort and health of the workers. The ergonomic work analysis methodology was adopted as a guide. The results show that one of the pillars of excellence achieved by this company is the quality of the work performed by their drivers, which is guided by the organizational values that permeate the organization. The driver plays a role in regulating the system by serving the population and providing mobility. Their activity is controlled by a series of interdependent variables, such as the demands for conducting the vehicle and the relationship with others.

Diagnóstico da integração dos sistemas de gestão ISO 9001, ISO 14001 e OHSAS 18001

Abstract: Este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa que teve por finalidade o diagnostico do nivel de integracao de sistemas de gestao baseados nas normas ISO 9001, ISO 14001 e OHSAS 18001 em empresas do ramo metal-mecânico. Inicialmente foi descrito o metodo de diagnostico e posteriormente realizada a sua aplicacao em uma empresa ja certificada nas tres normas, mas que possui dois sistemas de gestao distintos: o Sistema de Gestao da Qualidade (SGQ) baseado na norma ISO 9001 e o Sistema de Gestao de Saude, Seguranca e Meio Ambiente (SSM) baseado nas normas ISO 14001 e OHSAS 18001. Entre os principais resultados, destaca-se a aceitacao favoravel do diagnostico da integracao na empresa estudada. Com a realizacao do diagnostico, verificou-se que a organizacao nao atende totalmente a integracao de nenhum dos requisitos avaliados. Foram sugeridas oportunidades de melhoria para integracao dos requisitos normativos comuns, reduzindo custos e recursos para manutencao do sistema de gestao da empresa.

Eficiência informacional do mercado de capitais brasileiro em anúncios de fusões e aquisições

Abstract: O objetivo deste artigo e analisar o comportamento dos precos de acoes de companhias abertas brasileiras listadas na BM & FBovespa, nos dias proximos aos anuncios de fusoes ou aquisicoes (F & As), visando aferir a eficiencia informacional semiforte do mercado de capitais brasileiro. Em termos metodologicos, trata-se de um estudo de evento no qual os retornos anormais diarios foram calculados utilizando-se o Modelo de Retornos Ajustados ao Mercado. A amostra foi composta por 61 acoes preferenciais e 27 ordinarias de companhias brasileiras que empreenderam processos de F & As entre janeiro de 1996 e dezembro de 2004. Conclui-se que: 1. O anuncio de uma F & A contem informacao relevante para a precificacao das acoes no mercado; 2. Possivelmente ocorreu uso de informacoes privilegiadas (indicios); 3. O mercado comportou-se de maneira eficiente informacionalmente, tanto para as acoes preferenciais quanto para as ordinarias, no que se refere a velocidade do ajuste ao anuncio; 4. O mercado reagiu de maneira diferenciada para acoes preferenciais e ordinarias, com queda para as primeiras e elevacao para essas ultimas.

Process capability index Cpk for monitoring the thermal performance in the distribution of refrigerated products

Abstract: The temperature of refrigerated products along the cold chain must be kept within pre-defined limits to ensure adequate safety levels and high product quality. Because temperature largely influences microbial activities, the continuous monitoring of the time-temperature history over the distribution process usually allows for the adequate control of the product quality along both short- and medium-distance distribution routes. Time-Temperature Indicators (TTI) are composed of temperature measurements taken at various time intervals and are used to feed analytic models that monitor the impacts of temperature on product quality. Process Capability Indices (PCI), however, are calculated using TTI series to evaluate whether the thermal characteristics of the process are within the specified range. In this application, a refrigerated food delivery route is investigated using a simulated annealing algorithm that considers alternative delivery schemes. The objective of this investigation is to minimize the distance traveled while maintaining the vehicle temperature within the prescribed capability level.

Novas regras de prioridade para programação em flexible flow line com tempos de setup explícitos

Abstract: Neste artigo sao propostos e avaliados 12 metodos para minimizacao da duracao total da programacao (makespan) em sistemas flexible flow line com tempos de setup independentes da sequencia de execucao das tarefas. Esse ambiente e caracterizado pela possibilidade de as tarefas saltarem um ou mais estagios de producao. Alem disso, os tempos de setup podem ou nao ser antecipados. Os desempenhos relativos dos metodos de solucao foram avaliados por meio de experimentacao computacional com base na porcentagem de sucesso, desvio relativo, desvio-padrao do desvio relativo e tempo medio de computacao. Para avaliar-se a qualidade da solucao dos metodos propostos, foi desenvolvido um limitante inferior (lower bound) para a funcao objetivo. Testes computacionais mostraram a maior eficacia do metodo que sequencia as tarefas no primeiro estagio, pela ordem decrescente da soma dos tempos de processamento e de setup de todos os estagios, e nos estagios seguintes, pela ordem em que as tarefas sao liberadas para o processamento.

Contribuições do escritório de projetos à gestão do portfólio de produtos

Abstract: Although many studies have investigated the project management office, and substantial research has also examined product portfolio management, few studies have analyzed these elements together. This paper aims to identify how the project management office can contribute to product portfolio management. The research consists of a case study at a high-tech company where the product portfolio is continuously renewed and that features a well-established project management office. Among the main results, it was observed that the project management office's participation is greater during portfolio review decisions than during decisions related to the strategic planning of products. Furthermore, the project management office supports top management and the project teams in applying financial methods and in the mapping and evaluation phases during product portfolio management activities.

Understanding the motivational perspectives of sustainability: A case of biogas production

Abstract: Despite the importance of the expectations and visions of the actors involved in sustainable innovations, only the societal, motivational perspective is usually considered. The fact that local actors may have different multimotivations is typically overlooked. The aim of this study is to examine and understand the multi-motivational perspectives in a sustainable production project. First, we introduce the concept of the object and analyze the case of a biogas production project as a mediating activity for making swine production more sustainable. We argue that the object of the activity, as manifested in motivational perspectives, shapes the way in which biogas production (BP) systems are implemented. The article concludes by discussing how the concept of object can be used to explore the actual and future possibilities of using artifacts for increasing the sustainability of production.

Green Supply Chain Management: uma análise da produção científica recente (2001-2012)

Abstract: The goal of this study was to analyze international scientific production in the area of constant-production green supply chain management from 2001 to 2012 using the Business Source Complete database (EBSCO Host). The database was checked for cooperation between authors and institutions, author entrants, production and continuity categories, regularity of publication and distribution of publications over time. Ninety articles were included in the sample, and the results showed a reduction in the number of publishing authors, concentrated in one-timers category with 68.90%. The highest yield for a single author was 10 articles, and the most prolific periodical was the Journal of Cleaner Production, with 12 articles published on the subject. Clark University (USA) stood out in terms of output, with 12 affiliated authors. It was concluded that the subject had experienced a significant rise in published literature over that time period. Keywords Green Supply Chain Management. Management of green supply chains. Bibliometrics. Categories of production and continuity.

Procedimento para implantar um modelo de previsão de demanda com incorporação de julgamento de especialistas

Abstract: When marketing information is well interpreted and incorporated into a quantitative forecast by an expert, forecast accuracy may be enhanced. However, human judgment might introduce biases into the forecast. One way to avoid these biases is to use structured adjustment approaches. This article presents a procedure to help companies implement a demand forecasting system with a judgmental adjustment of statistical forecasts. The use of this procedure in a small company shows its implementation. The results demonstrated that judgmental adjustments improved quantitative forecast accuracy by an average of 5%. The results also showed that the product with the greatest variability in a time series had the best adjustment performance and that the best outcomes came from the larger adjustments.

How to develop technology roadmaps? The case of a Hospital Automation Company

Abstract: This paper presents the results of research conducted in a hospital automation company. The research examined the importance of innovation and technology management processes for small companies and how these factors can be developed more successfully. The paper proposes the use of a Technology Roadmapping (TRM) method to assist these companies in the management of their technology processes to better understand the economic and social context in which they operate and to better exploit market opportunities. The results show that Technology Roadmapping can assist these companies in management support and technological planning while exploring and sharing the connection between technological resources, organizational goals and environmental changes. This research addresses the lack of studies on conducting TRM and details the importance of the method.

O impacto de fatores críticos de sucesso e da maturidade em gerenciamento de projetos no desempenho: um levantamento com empresas brasileiras

Abstract: This paper analyzes the relationships of two critical success factors (top management support and the presence of the project manager) to the success of executed projects as well the relationship between organizational maturity in project management and project success. These relationships were tested using a set of success indicators known as the “iron triangle” that involve compliance with budgeting, scheduling and quality (product/service requirements and customer needs). To test the hypotheses, this research adopted a quantitative approach with a survey of 336 project management professionals in metropolitan Sao Paulo. Statistically significant relationships were identified between project success and critical success factors and between project success and project management maturity. Project management maturity was the variable that was most related to project success.