Construction in Barbados: keeping natural hazards in mind?

2014 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 175-196 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ksenia Chmutina ◽  
Lee Bosher
Keyword(s):  
Natural Hazards ◽  
Media Coverage ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Construction Sector ◽  
Construction Process ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Stakeholders

Purpose – Employing a case study of Barbados, the purpose of this paper is to highlight key stakeholders involved in the construction sector, discusses the roles of construction stakeholders in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and the key stages of the construction process where proactive DRR inputs could be made, The following objectives are addressed: to describe the main natural hazards in Barbados; to reveal key stakeholders involved in the decision making during the design, construction and operation process (DCOP) and DRR process; to discuss the roles of construction stakeholders in DRR and the key stages of the DCOP where proactive DRR inputs could be made; to emphasise the main barriers to the implementation of DRR in the Barbados’ construction sector. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative case study methodology, that includes semi-structured interviews with construction stakeholders in Barbados, a critical review of relevant literature and media coverage of natural hazards, and construction site visits. Findings – The key construction stakeholders that should be responsible for DRR integration in construction process are identified. The main barriers to the implementation of DRR in the Barbados’ construction sector are also discussed; these include the absence of an enforced building code and complacency towards natural hazards from the general population as well as construction stakeholders. Originality/value – Whilst some attempts have been made in mainstreaming DRR into construction projects in Barbados, many of the measures are not effectively implemented due to various constraints. In addition, little research has been done on the state of the construction sector and its use of DRR in the Caribbean. This paper aims to fill this research gap.

Tweeting to a job: HCL’s recruitment campaign on Twitter

2016 ◽  
Vol 24 (5) ◽  
pp. 4-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vivek Kumar ◽  
Arpita Srivastava
Keyword(s):  
Media Coverage ◽  
Creative Thinking ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Recruitment Process ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Brand Building ◽  
Study Methodology ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to describe an innovative recruitment campaign at HCL Technologies, India’s fourth largest information technology company. This campaign received media coverage in 60 national and international news outlets. Design/methodology/approach Using case study methodology, this paper explains how the unique process was carried out. Risks associated with the process are also identified. Findings It reveals that creative thinking and innovate practices can generate high social media engagement at a very low cost, while also fulfilling the task of recruitment. Managing risks inherent in the process is essential for reaping the rewards of this creative recruitment process. Practical implications The process described here can be emulated by other companies too. If executed well, rich dividends can be obtained at a modest cost. Companies can increase their engagement and brad equity at a low cost using this process. Originality/value The case study described here is unique in its approach toward recruitment and brand building.

scholarly journals European influence in ITU-R: the end of an era of dominance?

Info ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 1-17 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed Ali El-Moghazi ◽  
Jason Whalley ◽  
James Irvine
Keyword(s):  
European Countries ◽  
Current Debate ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Allocation Mechanism ◽  
African Countries ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
The World ◽  
Spectrum Policy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of the European countries in Region 1 of the Radio Sector of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU-R). More specifically, the focus is on the World Radiocommunication Conference 2012 meeting to explore whether European influence is in decline. Design/methodology/approach – This article adopts in-depth case study of the 700-MHz issue. Qualitative data are drawn from semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders who participated at the World Radiocommunication Conference 2012 meeting. Findings – This article concludes that the influence of European countries in the ITU-R in Region 1 has changed. The influence of Arab and African countries has increased, with that of European countries declining. However, European countries remain more influential than their African and Arab counterparts. Research limitations/implications – This article sheds light on an often overlooked but pivotal element of the international spectrum allocation mechanism. Originality/value – This article sheds light on important developments in the international spectrum policy that are largely overlooked in the current debate.

Supply chains and COVID-19: impacts, countermeasures and post-COVID-19 era

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Atif Saleem Butt
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Senior Managers ◽  
Supply Chain Disruptions ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Methodology ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Opening Up

PurposeThis paper explores the steps/countermeasures taken by firms to address supply chain disruptions in the wake of COVID-19.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs a case study methodology and employs 46 semi-structured interviews with senior managers of the three buying firms, four distribution centres and four supplying firms based in four countries (Pakistan, Sri Lanka, China and India).FindingsResults reveal that manufacturers are refining production schedules to meet the production challenges. Distributors are working with secondary suppliers to meet the inventory shortage. Finally, supplying firms are evaluating the impact of demand, focusing on short-term demand-supply strategy, preparing for channel shifts, opening up additional channels of communication with key customers, understanding immediate customer’s demand and priorities and finally becoming more agile.Research limitations/implicationsThere are some limitations to this study. First, the results of this study cannot be generalized to a wider population. Second, this study explores the interpretations of senior managers based in four Asian countries only.Practical implicationsSupply chain firms can use these findings to understand how COVID-19 is affecting firms. Firms can also use the suggestions provided in this study to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and make the best out of this pandemic.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the supply chain disruption literature by exploring the robust countermeasure taken by supply chain firms amid COVID-19 outbreak. In particular, it explores such countermeasures from the perspective of three different entities (buyer, supplier and distributor) based in four different countries in the South Asian region.

Becoming a transformative vice-principal in culturally and linguistically rich diverse schools

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 82-98
Author(s):  
Lyle Hamm
Keyword(s):  
Leadership Role ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Vice Principals ◽  
Diverse Schools ◽  
Building Leadership Capacity

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the leadership role(s) of vice-principals in diverse, multi-ethnic schools and communities and understand the supervision and mentoring support they require to help them become more effective leaders within them. The research questions guiding this study were: what forms of mentoring do vice-principals, who serve in diverse schools in rapidly changing communities, require? Who is in the best position to provide mentoring for them? Design/methodology/approach The author used a qualitative case study methodology. Data that were analyzed for this paper were drawn from surveys, semi-structured interviews, one focus group interview and school and community documents from three data sets within two case studies in Canada. The first data set was part of the author’s doctoral research program in a diverse school in Alberta; the other case study was part of a larger collective case study that the author is currently involved with and leading in New Brunswick. Several vice-principals were part of both studies. The author then constructed a survey questionnaire specifically focused on mentoring vice-principals in diverse schools. Vice-principals in both provinces, who were part of the two studies, were invited to respond to the follow-up survey. Using a constant comparative analytical approach, the author coded and analyzed the data from all three sets together. The author formed several categories and ultimately collapsed the categories into five distinct themes that illustrated and confirmed the social realities of the vice-principals in their schools and communities. Findings Five key findings emerged from the analysis of the data sets. They were building leadership capacity, fostering positive relationships, increasing global awareness, reducing stress and anxiety and becoming a diversity champion and peace-builder. Originality/value To this researcher’s knowledge, this paper contributes to a significant gap in the literature on vice-principals who serve in diverse schools and communities.

Unusual venues for business events: key quality attributes of museums and art galleries

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 847-862
Author(s):  
Vladimir Antchak ◽  
Eleanor Adams
Keyword(s):  
Interior Design ◽  
Quality Attributes ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Art Gallery ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Methodology ◽  
Business Events ◽  
Key Aspects

Purpose This paper aims to identify the key quality attributes a museum or art gallery should possess and enhance to become an attractive business event venue. Design/methodology/approach The research adopted a two-stage case-study methodology. Firstly, three museums were selected in Manchester, UK, to explore the venues’ approaches to hosting business events. These were the Lowry Art Centre, Salford Museum and Manchester Art Gallery. Secondly, a business event at another museum in the city, Science and Industry Museum, was accessed to explore the audiences’ perceptions and industry requirements regarding the organisation of events in museums. In total, 21 qualitative semi-structured and structured interviews were conducted with the event delegates, event planners and museums’ management. Findings Thematic analysis was applied to identify three key attributes: venue character, memorability and functionality and feasibility. Venue character refers to the overall appeal of a venue, including its history, status and interior design. Memorability refers to the authenticity and uniqueness of the attendee experience at a corporate event organised in a museum. Finally, functionality and feasibility deals with the availability of functional facilities, space flexibility and diverse venue regulations. Originality/value The findings of the research provide valuable insights to both museums and event companies. The research reveals the main benefits and drawbacks of using a museum or an art gallery as a venue for business events and suggests key aspects to consider while staging a business event in a cultural institution. Museums could apply the findings in marketing to emphasise their uniqueness, authenticity and flexibility.

The need for and benefits of buildability analysis: Nigeria as a case study

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Poor Correlation ◽  
Construction Sector ◽  
Construction Process ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Analysis Programme

Purpose Buildability analysis has a potential of improving the outcomes of construction projects. However, the usage of buildability analysis is not well pronounced within the construction sector. This study aims to provide understanding of the concept of buildability analysis with the view to predicting the future stance for buildability analysis. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a survey research method. Questionnaires were administered to purposively selected group of construction professionals working in Nigeria. A total of 82 questionnaires were administered among the sampled respondents, out of which a total of 51 (62.2%) were adequately filled and returned. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings The results revealed inability of the designers and constructors to have a common upstanding of the entire construction process, fragmented nature of the construction industry and poor correlation between design and construction as the most essential needs for buildability analysis. On the benefits of buildability analysis, the results showed increase in efficiency, save wasteful efforts and quality improvement as the most significant ones. In addition, the results from the study revealed that there is a statistically significant difference in some of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis among the survey participants. Originality/value The study identified three future stances for buildability analysis to include building unity, efficient and effective construction and high competition. Framework for buildability analysis was developed aimed at providing guidance to professionals in achieving enhanced project production information. The findings provide in-depth insight of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis that can inform professionals in the construction industry to adopt buildability analysis programme as a lasting solution to most design challenges and buildability problems confronting the sector.

scholarly journals Challenges for Digitalisation in Building Renovation to Enhance the Efficiency of the Process: A Spanish Case Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (21) ◽  
pp. 12139
Author(s):  
Natalia Lasarte ◽  
Peru Elguezabal ◽  
Maialen Sagarna ◽  
Iñigo Leon ◽  
Juan Pedro Otaduy
Keyword(s):  
Information Modeling ◽  
Construction Sector ◽  
Construction Process ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
Building Information ◽  
Living Labs ◽  
Barriers And Opportunities ◽  
Innovation Approach ◽  
Key Aspects

Although construction is one of the largest industries in the world, it is one of the least digitised and its productivity is still very low. Excesses of time and cost are common and are even more accentuated for building renovation. Recently, the building information modeling (BIM) methodology has strongly entered in the construction sector and appears to be an effective paradigm shift. Considering all of the previously mentioned aspects, this article addresses the identification and analysis of the critical barriers of renovation and the potential for digitalisation to overcome them using BIM. The methodology that was used is based on an open innovation approach called Living Labs, where consultations with the key stakeholders of the construction process aims for a higher digitalisation to focus on real needs and fitted to the user’s requirements. Starting from a worldwide survey, the analysis of the Spanish casuistry is deepened. From the analysis of barriers and opportunities, the necessary requirements for an optimal BIM application in renovation are highlighted. After identifying the key aspects that each stakeholder’ typology has considered as relevant, a set of key performance indicators have been selected, to monitor the improvements in the renovation process when BIM is adopted.

scholarly journals Barriers to knowledge sharing in third sector social care: a case study

2016 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 125-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lyndsay Bloice ◽  
Simon Burnett
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Social Service ◽  
Social Care ◽  
Third Sector ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit

Purpose – This paper aims to build on existing theory of knowledge sharing barriers (KSBs) by exploring the concept in the relatively under-researched context of social service not-for-profit organisations. Design/methodology/approach – In this study, case study methodology was used. Practitioner staff members took part in online questionnaires, followed by semi-structured interviews with line management and middle management staff. Secondary sources from the case study organisation were also used in the analysis. The analysis of questionnaire responses alongside responses from semi-structured interviews is compared with extant research into KSBs. Findings – The findings of this study highlight the need to re-examine the KSBs identified in the literature to reflect contexts beyond the private sector. Common barriers were identified, but some found in the case study organisation did not neatly fit into the existing definitions of KSBs. An updated list of KSBs to reflect this social service not-for-profit context is presented. Research limitations/implications – Case studies are often not generalisable; however, the KSB list developed here could be further explored and tested in other third sector organisations. Practical implications – The research raises the question of applicability of current knowledge management (KM) theory and lexicon in the third sector and social care environment. Originality/value – This study provides an insight into KM applicability in a third sector context, which is a relatively under-developed research area.

scholarly journals Change is hard: overcoming barriers to service innovation

2016 ◽  
Vol 30 (6) ◽  
pp. 615-629 ◽  
Author(s):  
Denise Linda Parris ◽  
Adrien Bouchet ◽  
Jon Welty Peachey ◽  
Danny Arnold
Keyword(s):  
Resistance To Change ◽  
Service Innovation ◽  
Customer Relationship ◽  
Successful Implementation ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sequence Of Events ◽  
Technology Solution

Purpose Creating value through service innovation requires new processes and ways of communicating to multiple stakeholders. Institutions and stakeholders within the service ecosystem, however, often resist change. Adopting a new service strategy entails two distinct costs – monetary and psychological. The tensions between an organization’s need to generate incremental revenue and the challenges of balancing business as usual and the costs associated with service innovation are explored. Specifically, this paper aims to explore the adoption of a customer relationship management (CRM) technology solution in a bureaucratic setting, and the sequence of events needed for successful implementation, with emphasis on overcoming various barriers and hurdles. Design/methodology/approach A case study methodology is used to gather and analyze data on how the Arizona State University (ASU) athletic department responded to the changing competitive environment via adopting a CRM technology solution. Data collection consisted of ten semi-structured interviews. Findings The experience of ASU illustrates that the primary benefits of a CRM technology solution include the generation of incremental revenue, capturing data and personalized marketing. The main challenges are coordinating adoption, obtaining commitment, developing competency, estimating costs and creating content. Research limitations/implications A conceptual framework emerged from the data that describes the likelihood of a service technology’s successful implementation based upon the interaction of the strength of key actors, organizational situation perception and organizational commitment. The model extends the proposed duality of service innovation outcomes as either success or failure to acknowledge the likelihood of a partial implementation where marginal success is achieved. Practical implications The sequence of events needed for successful implementation of a service technology is highlighted, with emphasis on overcoming various barriers and hurdles. Implementation steps are provided, as well as a model to help pinpoint issues. Originality/value The case study provides insight for overcoming pitfalls and barriers to adopting a new service technology in a traditionally bureaucratic organization where resistance to change is the norm, and innovation is not.

scholarly journals Labour market localisation policies and organizational responses: an analysis of the aims and effects of the Saudi Nitaqat reforms

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Abdulrahman Basahal ◽  
Chris Forde ◽  
Robert MacKenzie
Keyword(s):  
Labour Market ◽  
Early Stage ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Organizational Responses ◽  
Private Companies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
Labour Participation ◽  
Implementation Gaps

Purpose The aim of this paper is twofold. First, to understand the degree to which the intended outcomes of Saudi’s Nitaqat labour market policy corresponds to the actual responses from private companies. Second, to investigate how these gaps between policy intentions and actual outcomes have informed recent changes to Nitaqat policy. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a qualitative approach with a case study design and thematic analysis procedures. Data were obtained from the following three sources: semi-structured interviews completed during the early stage of Nitaqat in 2013–2014 with nine policymakers and 44 key stakeholders from six private Saudi companies; policy documents and gray literature on the aims and effects of the Nitaqat program; and available peer-reviewed literature on the subject. Findings This paper sets out and analyses the following four main goals of Nitaqat: First, to increase the Saudi national employment rate, second, increase company efficiency, third, improve human resource capabilities, and fourth, increase female labour participation. This paper reveals that although Nitaqat has certainly resulted in a positive change in some of these areas, in other areas, there remain gaps between the intentions and the actual effects of Nitaqat. This paper analyses recent changes to Nitaqat and argues that further changes may be needed to achieve the full goals of Nitaqat. Originality/value This paper’s originality lies in its analysis of the aims of labour market policies and organisational responses. It highlights the reasons for disconnections between the policy aims and organisational practices and explores how policymakers react and respond to these implementation gaps.

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