Showing papers in "Systemic Practice and Action Research in 2019"

Application of Quality of Experience in Networked Services: Review, Trend & Perspectives

Abstract: Over the last decade, there has been an exponential growth of services over the Internet. Services such as online gaming are gaining popularity, whereas, Voice over Internet (VoIP) has been well established. Storage, management and processing of data have moved away from the devices to the cloud. Quality of experience (QoE) defined as the user’s perception of service quality is utilized in different technologies, services and products for improving end user satisfaction and provides quality of service (QoS) according to their demands. In this paper, we describe the utilization of QoE in different technologies, services and products for improving end user satisfaction. Specifically, we present the latest developments in QoE in multimedia services, network management, VoIP, web development, games and cloud computing. Finally, we discuss the current research, solutions and present open issues of future research in QoE.

Dynamic Capabilities for Sustainability: Revealing the Systemic Key Factors

Abstract: By applying systems thinking theory to capabilities literature, this paper examines the factors that support the development of dynamic capabilities towards sustainable management. For such, we conducted an in-depth single case study using Soft System Methodology (SSM) in an energy organisation from an emerging economy. Our analysis of the last twenty years of operation revealed that the organisation has developed new ways to change and adapt in a disturbing environment by integrating sustainability into three factors: (1) integrative strategy (green products, biodiversity, organic processes and self-sufficient electricity), (2) sustainable culture (sustainable mindset, environmental awareness, learning orientation and decision-making processes) and (3) organisational routines for innovation (new green processes and products, partnerships/alliances and knowledge management). Our results extend the literature by raising a conceptual framework of the fundamental dimensions of dynamic capabilities for sustainability. This is the first study that connects systems thinking and dynamic capabilities theories applied to sustainable management.

Towards an Understanding of Rich Picture Interpretation

Abstract: This paper considers the value of the Rich Picture (RP) as a means to capture data from multiple groups exploring a question, problem or issue. RPs emerge from group work by unravelling and integrating understandings, but to date there have been no attempts to consider ways in which the RPs from different groups analysing the same question can be, or indeed should be, objectively compared. The aim of this paper is to investigate the maximum learning potential from the RP, and we develop and use a form of Content Analysis (CA) called Eductive Interpretation (EI) specifically for RPs. The paper illustrates the process of EI by drawing upon a series of RPs created by groups in the Lebanon. The groups were all working on issues involved in coastal zone management, and the resulting analysis presents some of the insights that were gained. The paper finally discusses some of the advantages and disadvantages of EI applied to RPs.

Describing the Necessity of Multi-Methodological Approach for Viable System Model: Case Study of Viable System Model and System Dynamics Multi-Methodology

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework based on the Viable System Model (VSM) and the System Dynamics (SD) that dynamizes and simulates VSM. Failure in non-systemic solutions for management problems, urges managers to search for alternative management solutions. Therefore, managers chose Systems Thinking to tackle management complexity in organizations. In recent years, the need for alternative management solutions has given rise to increased popularity of methodologies such as system dynamics and viable system models. Moreover, managers are the victims of systemic failure in non-systemic organizational methodologies due to the one-dimensional and non-holistic views of the organizations (each methodology presents one dimension and viewpoint to the organization). To address the above issues and to facilitate complexity management in organizations, such methodologies should be reconciled and applied together in the form of a complementary multi-methodological approach. Therefore, to close this gap in the literature, this paper seeks to develop a new multi-methodological approach based on Viable System Model (VSM) and System Dynamics (SD). In this context, a dynamic model is developed that handles and manages knowledge throughout the organization together with a general SD framework that models organizational problem-solving. VSM literature review shows there are demands for such dynamic knowledge-based organizational design and diagnosis methodology. The developed multi-methodological approach enables the design of a dynamic complexity handling structure and its associated processes in any given organization. This research result is providing an approach that is more suitable and comprehensive as it dynamizes VSM and covers for the weaknesses of both SD and VSM. Then, the multi-methodology is applied in a management consulting company and the results are presented. The application of the multi-methodology and proposed policy results demonstrates improved organizational problem-solving abilities in terms of speed and manageability of problems.

Elicitation of Tacit Knowledge Using Soft Systems Methodology

Abstract: Elicitation of tacit knowledge is of paramount importance in organizations for novice people’s use of experts’ knowledge. One of the shortcomings of knowledge elicitation techniques is lack of consensus among experts in eliciting tacit knowledge. In other words, experienced individuals have different viewpoints regarding the statement of complicated knowledge activities. Hence, using soft thinking approach, it is tried to establish agreement among experts and solve the problems of previous techniques. In the present study, a combination of concept mapping, scenario making, teach back, and card sorting techniques within the framework of soft systems methodology have been used. In this way, a methodology is presented for eliciting tacit knowledge.

Exploring the Potency of Rich Pictures in a Systemic Lean Intervention Process

Abstract: This paper explores the usefulness of rich pictures as a method in Systemic Lean Intervention (SLI) process. It combines Lean and Systems Thinking analytical tools. Lean emerged with the main objectives of waste identification and removal in an operational system - which is synonymous to cost reduction, and value maximization. The research focuses on the use of rich pictures alongside lean tools such as workshop and interviews in a participatory research process, involving the identified stakeholders who are affected by the operational process. The research applies these tools with the intent to recognise the impacts of the various parts that function together in the operational process. A single case study organisation of a commercial Livestock farm in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria was used. The research found out that the application of rich pictures could be influenced by certain factors like the participants’ interest, power and authority possession of some participants, familiarity with the issues considered, and the participants’ level of background knowledge on the usage of rich pictures. Rich pictures were also found to be time-consuming in its interpretation and application to addressing identified issues.

Systems Thinking for Systems Making: Joining Systems of Thought and Action

Abstract: A common use of systems thinking (ST) is for guiding our practices of systems making (SM). One style of ST for SM centers on making designs with deterministic rules, as in the hard sciences, for guiding engineered applications. Another style mimics natural development, with a process by stepwise learning and improvisation to produce evolving designs; examples including architectural design, scientific research, and the practice of action research (AR). All these use exploratory pathfinding to search for better ways to work with reality, and this is the main subject of the paper. Both deterministic and adaptive ST for SM are widely found in differing roles, each having capabilities the other lacks. I start with simple models, such as step-wise improvisation for adapting recipes when making dinner. Another example is Robert Rosen’s model for how scientific and other cultures learn to work with nature, by turning attention back and forth between nature and theory for creating their cultural language. A review of the modern history of the systems sciences, as practices of ST for SM, then further broadens the view and context. That leads to introducing a new paradigm of natural systems thinking (NST), using commitments to critical awareness, emancipation, and methodological pluralism for working with natural systems.

Revealing Community Perceptions for Ecological Restoration Using a Soft System Methodology

Abstract: Human perceptions under unstructured forms contain valuable information for ecological restoration (ER). To aid in ER, this paper introduces a working process to analyze the unstructured information for the case study of black bear restoration (BBR) in East Texas where understanding of the perceptions of stakeholders at a community level is needed. We identified the current situation, revealed stakeholders and their interactions, and developed actions for change for BBR. Our techniques included recording discussions in meetings, Soft Systems Methodology, and stakeholder analysis. Results indicated the current situation of BBR with human-bear and human-human conflicts. We figured out that information exchange was interrupted in the public, a potential cause for conflicts. Through a systemization, results showed various roles of key stakeholders and constraints for BBR. We found that local state agencies and local residents (particularly landowners) are the key decision-makers for BBR success. Their collaboration can result in a small portion of success (1/9) that can be increased by more cooperation. The SSM framework introduced in this study can be used for modeling community perceptions in ecological restoration.

A Systemic Indicators Framework for Sustainable Rural Community Development

Abstract: Community indicators have been of special interest to scholars worldwide, because of their vital role in community development. Nevertheless, the best way to identify indicators is still unclear, especially for rural communities in developing countries where the complexity of rural systems give rise to special challenges. Following conceptual and empirical stages of the development of a systemic framework for identifying indicators for rural community in developing countries, our participatory action research moves to critical reflection, undertaken with the participants in the original fieldwork. This paper discusses findings from that reflection, in workshops and in-depth interviews, considered, also, in the context of our experiences in the previous stages of research. It finds that the positive impact of the framework was reflected in increases to the communities’ human and social capital, although several weaknesses in the framework implementation were also revealed. This paper introduces reflection-based improvement to the framework and also discusses a set of principles as a foundation for implementing the framework in rural settings in developing economies.

Elaborating a Critical Realist Approach to Soft Systems Methodology

Abstract: This paper explores the implications of adopting a critical realist approach to soft systems methodology (SSM) both to address local problematic situations and to develop deeper explanations. However, its potential as a means for developing generalizable knowledge for management science has been limited due at least in part to its adherence to strong interpretivism. After exploring the history of soft systems methodology and basic tenants of critical realism, the paper builds on previous discussions of ways in which SSM is compatible with a critical realist approach. Next, the consequences for such an approach are considered by examining a case in which SSM was integrated into a critical realist approach for discovery as means to guide large-scale reform in a non-profit organization. The case revealed that critical realism served as an effective guide both for incorporating existing knowledge as well as setting the stage for its possible modification. Opportunities and challenges in the approach are presented. Apart from the adoption of a realist ontology, a critical realist approach to SSM requires assuming a dual-role as an insider--outsider, which presents a number of challenges. However, it appears soft systems methodology are highly compatible and could serve to help bridge the practice--research gap.

Application of Viable System Model in Diagnosis of Organizational Structure

Abstract: A well-designed organizational structure is a cornerstone of achieving an organization’s goals while suiting the environmental challenges. Structural design models must be built in such a way as to understand the inherent complexity of the environment as well as that of stakeholders’ relationships. The viable system model (VSM), which is rooted in Organizational Cybernetics, is capable of understanding external and internal complexities of organizations. This approach is an outline for diagnosing and designing organizational structure. The fundamental idea of the VSM is that the existence of specific systems and their relations can lead an organization toward viability and survivability. This study employed the VSM to diagnose the organizational structure of Iranian Construction Engineering Organization based on the proposed methodology that includes three steps: 1. system identification, 2. system diagnosis, and 3. other requirements for viability. Application of the proposed methodology demonstrated that a set of systems, information flows, and communication channels all have deficiencies within the organization, which must be amended in order to achieve the viability and ability to deal with the challenges.

Collaborative Action Research for Preparing Teachers as Reflective Practitioners

Abstract: The study focuses on using collaborative action research projects to promote reflective practice of pre-service teachers during the internship Research groups were composed by school tutors and pre-service teachers, assisted by the teacher educator Twelve pre-service teachers and six school tutors were organized in three groups, two tutors and four pre-service teachers per group Each group worked with a topic coming from problems found in the internship experience Pre-service teachers conducted classroom observation of their tutors and classmates as well as classroom teaching by themselves They also wrote reflective diaries of these observations and their own teaching, and participated in a learning community which was a nurturing collaborative atmosphere that provided time, space and collegial peers to share experiences and solve problems By examining the research experience, there are some important results: a) Collaborative action research helped pre-service teachers to study and develop reflective practice abilities while participating in a learning community which somewhat filled the gaps left by the lack of some tutors’ good role modeling; b) The role of the teacher educator for improving relationships between school tutors and pre-service teachers seemed crucial in both the preventive role and remedial role; c) There is still room for improvement, especially concerning tutors’ modeling and scaffolding high quality reflective teaching practices; d) Therefore, the training of competent internship tutors is significant, and relevant incentive policies should be formulated to motivate middle school teachers to act as internship tutors

Participatory Design and Technologies for Sustainable Development: an Approach from Action Research

Abstract: This paper explores the relevance of the action research for design of technological solutions that lead to both systemic sustainable development and active involvement of the community The paper shows how this idea was implemented in a project for water resource conservation with educational institutions of rural areas in Colombia Through the use of technology, a reduction in water consumption increases in awareness about the use of this natural resource, and the active involvement of the community were sought Additionally, social processes related to the conservation of natural resources were addressed through a socio-technical approach for analysis and design During the application of the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), the participants and researchers created technological prototypes that allowed to: 1) give visibility to the community’s initiatives, and 2) save water in the households This paper focuses on the importance of the design process of innovative solutions for social and environmental issues through the participative approach of action research

Diagnosing Business Incubation for Social Purpose: A Viable System Model Approach

Abstract: Business incubation is one of the means that promotes the overall business and economic growth of a particular location. However, to date, the role of business incubation as a social innovation, which has the aim to achieve concurrent development of firms, the economy and the society, is not yet understood. Using the systemic approach, specifically the viable system model (VSM) as the framework, the objective of this study is to diagnose the operation of an incubation programme that focuses on supporting business development for social purpose. This study utilized the qualitative methodology and selected an incubator, known as Kompleks Industri Makanan MARA (KIMAR), as the system-in-focus. KIMAR is a halal food industry complex established and operated by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA); the latter a Malaysian government agency that aims to promote the socio-economic empowerment of the indigenous people of Malaysia including the Malays. Data for the diagnosis was collected through interviews with the executives responsible for the incubator operation, as well as the managers or entrepreneurs of the businesses located within it. Our analysis found cohesions among the functions of the incubator and their functionality to manage certain varieties in the environment, although more requisite varieties are needed to manage the high complexity of global halal business development. In managing these varieties, the incubation process receives financial sponsorship and other support from its social-based parent organization. The use of systems perspective highlights operational values of responsibility, long-term perspective as well as effective management of resources that drive the impact of a social incubator, thus enriches the concept of social innovation that typically focuses on the social impact of the outcome.

System Dynamics and Learning Scenarios for Process Improvement and Regional Resilience: A Study in The Footwear Industry of Southern Brazil

Abstract: By means of integrated and systemic resilience strategies, it is possible to reduce vulnerability and risk, and at the same time increase the capacity to adapt to sustainable regional development scenarios. On the other hand, industries that can develop learning skills may address critical situations by adopting systemic thinking that is focused on problem-solving. In this study, our objective is to analyze the dynamics of the footwear industry in the south of Brazil. The secondary objectives are the development of a dynamic model that would a) explain the main processes of the industry, b) chart the projection of learning scenarios that simulate the capacity of improvement in these processes, and c) increase the regional resilience for a time horizon of 10. Action research was used as research method, due to the cooperative and participative involvement that occurs between the researchers and the participants in order to understand the situation and to construct the systems dynamic model of the impact of the footwear-industry activity of a city in the south of Brazil over the city resilience. The studied industry underwent a major economic change; it shifted from the production of commodities to the production of differentiated specialties. From the systemic analysis, five main learning scenarios were identified: (i) the AS IS, (ii) the uniform distribution of investment, (iii) the labor training investment, (iv) the value-added marketing investment, and (v) the solid waste treatment investment. Moreover, four scenarios of comparison were identified as well, namely (i) the large exchange variation and low-level crisis, (ii) the large exchange variation and high-level crisis, (iii) the small exchange variation and high-level crisis, and (iv) the small exchange variation and low-level crisis. The systems dynamic model relied on input data, the opinion of industry experts, performance equations, and graphical functions. The model provided a learning environment that allowed a better understanding systemic filling the gap left by the indexes that purport to measure the resiliency allowing a better understanding of the factors and elements that interact and influence the regional resilience and of the improvements in productive processes in the footwear industry. Thus, simultaneous business investment in determinants of resilience factors contribute to increase resilience in the region where these companies operate? A synergistic effect was observed; that is, resilience could be more easily achieved if the scenarios of labor qualification, value-added marketing, and solid waste treatment were applied simultaneously. These findings were compared to the principles of the BRICS index and were fully aligned. In future studies, it is important to establish a performance index in order to generate models that would be capable of controlling evolutionary paths toward process improvement and of increasing the regional resilience of the industry.

Evolution of Management Cybernetics and Viable System Model

Abstract: The Viable System Model have pulled in system specialists’ interests lately. This field could help system analyzers and designers to deal with systems unpredictability and help them to handle dynamic evolving situations. This paper investigates Viable System Model recorded and late research patterns. To start with, presenting and creating verifiable pattern of this model has been examined. At that point late distribution patterns have been checked on by reviewing 1000 most essential and cited works Based on Google Scholar rank. Cybernetics developed in the Josiah Macy conferences, beginning in 1946. At that point, Wiener presented the field of Cybernetics and Ashby, Von Forester, and McCulloch built up this field as a train. This Management Cybernetics was presented in 1959 by Beer is a blend of frameworks of control, and management sciences. Beer introduced VSM as an operational model here. Reviewing 1000 most cited publications demonstrates the presentation of this field achieved maturity and further advancement turned out to be generally under development. In addition, in view of investigated patterns, application of VSM model would now be able to be firmly alluring.

Promoting Entrepreneurship through a Community Learning Model – Case Study: Green Businesses

Abstract: This article presents a community learning model formulated by Engineers Without Borders Colombia with the aim of providing communities with tools to create sustainable productive solutions which have relevancy for members and for potential customers. The goal of this formulation is to promote learning processes that are guided by decisions made by community members to propose sustainable and replicable initiatives. The model applicability is evidenced through a case study devoted to strengthening community-led green businesses in the Guavio Province, Colombia by collecting lessons and conclusions. Ultimately, this collection will prove useful in replicating the learning model in other similar rural communities.

Exploring Systemic Problems in IS Adoption Using Critical Systems Heuristics

Abstract: Most of the traditional technology acceptance models revolve around information systems (IS)/information technology (IT) adoption at individual user level. Organizations are complex social systems in which stakeholders interact and play different roles in IS/IT adoption and use. This study provides an organizational perspective through multiple stakeholder viewpoints to explore ‘systemic problems’ in IS adoption. This paper contributes to IS literature by applying boundary critique mechanism of Critical Systems Heuristics (CSH) through an interpretive study of a web portal implementation project in a West Australian University. This perspective considers systemic problems as a ‘system of conflicts’ comprising key factors and organization-wide stakeholder interactions. Moreover, it adds to CSH theory as to how systemic problems are identified by using boundary judgments and evaluated using a hermeneutic approach.

What is at Stake in Deliberative Inquiry? A Review About a Deliberative Practice

Abstract: Despite the growing interest in deliberative and dialogue models the research literature lacks investigations of the underlying assumptions of deliberative methods. Starting from the current popularity as well as the broad use of the method of deliberative inquiry -one example of such a deliberative method- this article aims to identify approaches and underlying assumptions of deliberative inquiry. Therefor a systematic literature review of empirical research, of descriptions of practical deliberative procedures and of theoretical research of deliberative inquiry is used. This review demonstrates that the method of deliberative inquiry is elaborated and used within different contexts with a corresponding range of rationales: From (1) a procedure to tackle curriculum questions through (2) a way of investigating and agreeing upon policy actions to (3) collaboratively researching issues. By describing the three approaches and by investigating the assumptions of deliberative inquiry within each approach, we demonstrate a range of rationales behind this method. Despite the distinctions, the primary goal of all manifestations of deliberative inquiry is similar: to contemplate a practical problem in a systemic and collaborative way, to weigh arguments for possible solutions and to make (even temporarily) a decision. This article concludes with future research perspectives.

Integrating VSM and Network Analysis for Tourism Strategies – Case: Mexico and the Chinese Outbound Market

Abstract: With China leading since 2012 global outbound travel, this paper introduces a Systemic Model for Chinese Outbound Market exemplifying with Mexico’s Case study, the seventh most visited country worldwide. Seeking to contribute increasing the applications of VSM, deepening its understanding and relevance stating proper functions integration to face Chinese Outbound Market leadership occurred in global tourism environment. First section of the manuscript introduces research objectives and gaps as well as document sources review discussion; second section details research design; third section covers proposed model and it’s functions’ operationalization, as well as network science analysis of information collected during an academical research stay on 2016 from Mexico National Polytechnic Institute to China Sun Yat Sen University Zhuhai Campus Tourism Faculty, and the Centrality measures found to confirm model pertinence.

Sharing the Voice and Experience of our Community Members with Significant Disabilities in the Development of Rehabilitation Games

Abstract: We investigated a participatory design of rehabilitation technology for people with disabilities. Conventionally, rehabilitation technology is designed through the collaboration of medical experts and professional engineers. Potential users of the technology are introduced only at the testing stage after the proof of concept has been established and working prototypes have been constructed, leading to insufficient scope for modification. However, rehabilitation technology that does not address the needs of people often results in decreased efficacy and its eventual nonuse. In our study, we used action research to guide the development of rehabilitation technology. People with disabilities were invited to participate in designing the assistive technology at the outset of the project and played the role of experts in living with disabilities. They acted as resources and assets in the process of developing and validating the technology.

Enabling political legitimacy and conceptual integration for climate change adaptation research within an agricultural bureaucracy: a systemic inquiry

Abstract: The value of using systems approaches, for situations framed as ‘super wicked’, is examined from the perspective of research managers and stakeholders in a state-based climate change adaptation (CCA) program (CliChAP). Polycentric drivers influencing the development of CCA research pre-2010 in Victoria, Australia are reflected on, using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) to generate a boundary critique of CCA research as a human activity system. We experienced the complexity of purpose with research practices pulling in different directions, reflected on the appropriateness of agricultural bureaucracies’ historical new public management (NPM) practices, and focused on realigning management theory with emerging demands for adaptation research skills and capability. Our analysis conceptualised CliChAP as a subsystem, generating novelty in a wider system, concerned with socio-ecological co-evolution. Constraining/enabling conditions at the time dealing with political legitimacy and conceptual integration were observed as potential catalysts for innovation in research management towards better handling of uncertainty as a social process using systemic thinking in practice (StiP).

Re-Contextualizing Medical Pluralism in South Africa: a Research Schema for Indigenous Decision Making

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to explain the rationale and development of a research schema that focuses on reducing the unintended consequences of medical pluralism in the context of communicable and non-communicable diseases in eastern and southern Africa. The research schema represents a contribution to the field of action-oriented research relating to the unintended consequences associated with medical pluralism that will be piloted in South Africa. The principle consequences of the unintended consequences of medically pluralism are delays in testing and treatment interruption. The research schema is framed through a resilience lens because the unintended consequences of medical pluralism bear the hallmarks of a complex ‘wicked problem’. The resilience perspective will use grassroots agency as the initial referential axis of enquiry. From this start point, broader systemic influences will be contextualized from a realist perspective using the ‘AART’ model of enquiry as a guiding heuristic (‘abduction, abstraction, retroduction and testing’). The ‘abductive’ component of the ‘AART’ model will facilitate a re-interrogation of broader systemic influences that sustain contemporary forms of medical pluralism as a precursor to the action-oriented phases. The methodological approach will include the application of proprietary software called SenseMaker® which was designed to enable research into complex anthropogenic phenomena. Analytically the re-interrogation aims to ‘empower indigenous decision making alongside scientific data’ as a mechanism to develop novel social practices that can reduce the unintended consequences associated with medical pluralism. The forthcoming pilot will ultimately be the judge of this theoretical contribution.

Action-Research Helps Researchers Foster Smart Rural Development: Two Case Studies on Local Food Policy

Abstract: This article highlights the benefits and difficulties of action-research projects implemented to advance territorial development, in the context of the smart specialization strategy promoted by European Union regional policy. We focus on the strategy’s implications for territorial development in peri-urban and rural areas. The role that researchers can play in the smart development approach is examined through an action-research project (TASTE project) linking researchers and actors at the territorial level. Two case studies are used to illustrate the on-going process of action-research, the interactions between participants, the tools designed to share knowledge, and the roles taken by researchers. Both the benefits of these approaches and the difficulties encountered by researchers in such action-research are discussed. We suggest principles, attitudes and tools researchers can adopt to foster smart territorial development.

Using Action Research to Implement an Operating Efficiency Initiative in a Local Government

Abstract: Maximizing available resources is essential to maintain the economic viability of public institutions. In order to enhance the operational efficiency of the Economic Activities Department of the Madrid City Council (Spain), we have applied an Action Research (AR) initiative. A multidisciplinary collaborative team was created and three AR learning cycles were planned and implemented across the entire management process. Key performance metrics to quantify the improvements were defined, collected and measured. Implementation of the AR initiative, and a multiple case study, led to significant improvements in the processing time of administrative proceedings, as well as the total number of inspections and resolutions. In addition, learning proposals for governments and academy were launched in order to generate and document knowledge which could be applied to other public services. This research work extends the use of AR to public institutions. The application of AR in the selected procedure developed in this city council allowed to generate knowledge in relation to how this methodology must be used to improve other administrative procedures, operational efficiency and, as result, citizen satisfaction.

A Play-Based Methodology for Studying Children: Playfication

Abstract: Research involving children has specific characteristics and, given the significant changes in cognitive, emotional and behavioural systems that occur during childhood, it is necessary to ensure the most suitable methodology is applied. A considerable amount of research on children highlights the importance of respecting their abilities and encouraging active participation during studies, overcoming the so-called top-down approach and creating a child-friendly context. Given the universal value of play demonstrated by various psychologists and pedagogical experts, this study proposes a research design based on play, specifically studied for pre-schoolers. By comparing two different studies, we highlight the benefits deriving from this methodology, in line with the criteria for researching children as specified by Morrow and Richards (1996), Christensen and James (2008), and Banister and Booth (2005). The steps of this methodology are explained and commented. This research note concludes that a play-based methodology, which was more fruitful compared to a traditional group method, is a valid approach when researching pre-schoolers and should be the subject of further research.

Innovating Authentically: Cultural Differentiation in the Animation Sector

Abstract: This paper examines the concept of authentic innovation and the development of the animation industry in Malaysia. Authenticity is a concept that has been investigated from philosophical and institutional perspectives in the quest to explain the role of self-fulfillment and decision-making. It links with systems thinking because authenticity as a strategy requires a holistic approach since it is based upon values that influence action. The desire for authenticity can create expression outside the norms and produce innovation. We present interpretations of authenticity, explain the concept of authentic innovation and relate this to three case studies of Malaysian animation studios. We found that cultural authenticity contributed to the uniqueness of the product and was a significant factor in the success of the animations in South East Asia. Challenges for maintaining authentic innovation arise primarily from economic pressure.

Evaluating the Impacts of Virtual Organization Absorption on the Quality of Urban Private Constructions; the System Dynamics Approach

Abstract: Quality compliance checking of urban private constructions in Iran follows a fragmented pattern. By considering this fragmentation along with the inherent complexities of the quality compliance checking, it becomes urgent to look closer at this mechanism to find a way for making improvements. Since there is no determination to change the existing mechanism, this study discusses the use of virtual organizations as a strategy to enhance the level of quality. To this end, according to the intended approach for developing virtual organizations, this study identifies the capabilities of this type of systems in the first step. Then, this research evaluates the impacts of virtual organization absorption on the quality of urban private constructions. In this evaluation, the paper applies the system dynamics approach as the modeling tool due to its ability to address complexities and feedback structures. The resulted dynamic model needs initial values and requires functions to be able to run the simulation. In this case, the Delphi Technique is used to extract the functions and the values. After importing the resulted values and functions into the model, the focus group is used for the validation. The result of this analysis represents the positive impacts of the virtual organization absorption in the quality compliance checking mechanism. Fifty-percent improvement in the quality level of urban private constructions after a twenty-year period is one of the results, which could be considered as an indicator of virtual organization impacts.

Critique of Manualized Therapies: Systemic Family Therapy Manual for Adolescent Self-Harm

Abstract: The ‘Systemic Family Therapy Manual for Adolescent Self-Harm’ (SHIFT) (Boston et al. 2009) has recently been evaluated and it was found that the intervention offered no clinical or cost benefits over treatment as usual in reducing subsequent hospital attendance or repetition of self-harm (Cottrell et al. 2018). This paper critiques the concept of systemic psychotherapy manuals, with particular reference to the SHIFT manual.