Implementation of sustainable development practices in the hospitality industry

2016 ◽  
Vol 28 (3) ◽  
pp. 609-639 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brigitte Prud’homme ◽  
Louis Raymond
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Hospitality Industry ◽  
Research Strategy ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
Hotel Managers ◽  
Tools And Techniques ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This study aims to describe and understand how and to what extent hotel managers adopt sustainable development (SD) practices in their establishment, given the presence of barriers to the adoption of such practices by hotel establishments, and the lack of knowledge as to the ways and means by which an SD orientation is developed and implemented. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research strategy was chosen to answer the research questions, that is, a multi-site case study of five Canadian hotels. Findings The study shows why and how hotel managers proceeded to develop and implement an SD orientation, as well as the contextual factors that affected the extent to which SD practices were adopted. Research limitations/implications The initial elaboration and validation of a process model of SD adoption in hotel establishments constitute a conceptual building block upon which this complex phenomenon can be further studied. Practical implications This study demonstrates that in the hospitality industry, implementing an SD orientation is a strategy that can be enabled through the provision of required knowledge and expertise as well as appropriate tools and techniques to hotel managers. Originality/value In describing and understanding the dynamics of implementing a SD orientation in five Canadian hotels, this study has provided a conceptually and practically fruitful answer to the question of “how” and “to what extent” hotels adopt SD practices.

Case study of sustainable service design in the hospitality industry

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yi-An Chen ◽  
Chun Liang Chen
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Customer Value ◽  
Hospitality Industry ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Corporate Sustainability ◽  
Service Design ◽  
Cultural Resources ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Holistic Understanding

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore how creative-cultural hotels can achieve sustainable service design through the development of a holistic conceptual framework. Design/methodology/approach The authors created this framework using a qualitative exploratory multi-case study of four creative-cultural hotels in Taiwan. The framework comprises strategic, organizational and interface levels to describe the design process and implementation of service offerings that co-create value within a multifaceted network of actors. Findings The findings of this study show that incorporating local arts and culture into sustainable service design can generate unique value and experiences for customers. From the perspective of sustainable development, these hotels seek to add value by using local creative and cultural resources to ensure that they have a sound commercial base from which to showcase their cultural features. As such, this study recommends that the hotel industry shift its focus to a paradigm that provides a strategic and sustainability-framed vision to create value for society while protecting local natural and cultural resources. Originality/value This multilevel model reframes the development of customer value constellations through a holistic understanding of user experience, eco-design practice, service encounters aligned with user touchpoints and front-line employee capabilities. To integrate the perspectives of both service providers and their customers, the proposed model embeds these stakeholders within a single model through the vehicle of local value co-creation. This holistic framework can assist in designing sustainable service within the hospitality industry to deliver better services and customer experiences. The findings provide an illustration of how the proposed multilevel sustainable-development-oriented service design framework can serve as a useful tool in guiding hotels toward corporate sustainability.

Continuous improvement in a university – the first steps: a reflective case study

2018 ◽  
Vol 67 (2) ◽  
pp. 260-277 ◽  
Author(s):  
Seamus O’Reilly ◽  
Joe Healy ◽  
Rónán O’Dubhghaill
Keyword(s):  
Reflective Practice ◽  
Continuous Improvement ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Implementation Phase ◽  
Participative Approach ◽  
Tools And Techniques ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Using Lean Six Sigma (LSS) implementation literature as an organising framework, the purpose of this paper is to explore the initial steps in a continuous improvement (CI) journey taken by an Irish university in order to identify the motivations, highlight key challenges and considers the capabilities required to initiate and sustain a CI programme. Design/methodology/approach This study focusses on one case organisation. A participative approach is adopted to learn from the initial steps taken in the establishment of a CI programme. Given this approach, the researchers had access to all documents and related archives associated with this initiative. Hence an iterative learning approach is adopted with the analysis of data from the first 12-month plan informing the next planning and implementation phase. Findings This paper provides a reflective account of why and how a university went about commencing a CI programme. The motivation to establish the CI programme not only reflects the current fiscal environment but also one characterised by a need to respond to a number of increasingly demanding stakeholders. The insights gained highlight the importance of alignment with strategy, role of specialists and use of a structured method informed by a LSS approach. Of particular note is the role of expertise, both internal and external, and within this context the interplay between a formal top-down approach and the coming together enthusiast staff, some of whom had CI experience from previous employment. A number of practical implications were identified as a result of the study including the key role of the project sponsor; the criticality of an understanding of the fundamental LSS concepts and tools and techniques by management; and the key role played by improvement specialists. Originality/value While in recent times a strong case for the application of LSS in HEIs has been made, there is a paucity of case studies based on the reflective practice in the field. This paper is novel in that it aims to address this and contribute to an emerging body of CI literature in the HEI area.

Universities and smart specialisation strategy

2018 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 67-84 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chiara Rinaldi ◽  
Alessio Cavicchi ◽  
Francesca Spigarelli ◽  
Luigi Lacchè ◽  
Arthur Rubens
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Knowledge Society ◽  
Regional Economies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Social Sciences And Humanities ◽  
Smart Specialisation ◽  
The University ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The paper analyses the emerging role of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) universities in contemporary society via third- and fourth-mission activities. In particular, the paper investigates the potential contributions that SSH universities can offer in developing and enhancing capacities, supporting the changing conception of innovation coherently through a Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) approach. Design/methodology/approach The case study presents multiple third- and fourth-mission activities carried out by the University of Macerata (Italy). The activities are framed according to the roles universities could have in supporting S3. Findings Within third- and fourth-mission activities, SSH universities can play different and broader roles (generative, absorptive, collaborative and leadership), which could support regions in designing and implementing S3. Practical implications The paper shows the important contributions that SSH universities can make in their regions, both to support S3 and enhance the transition to sustainable development. Social implications The article emphasises SSH universities’ multiple contributions to sustainable development and to innovation in the knowledge society/economy framework. Originality/value This case study captures SSH universities’ contributions to S3 and the wider innovation paradigm, by highlighting their transformational effect on regional economies.

scholarly journals Breaking the vicious circle of subsidiary isolation: a meta-synthesis of subsidiary initiative-taking

2021 ◽  
Vol 38 (3) ◽  
pp. 51-70
Author(s):  
MAIKE SIMON ◽  
SUSANNE ROYER
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Search Strategy ◽  
Research Strategy ◽  
Vicious Circle ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose of the paper: We aim at contributing to the current controversial discussion on the vicious circle of subsidiary isolation. Therefore, we (1) strive for a better understanding of the different stages of initiative undertaking and (2) investigate how subsidiaries can make use of this process to attract HQ attention and break out of isolation. Methodology: Building on Schmid et al.'s (2014) process model of subsidiary initiative development, we adopt a meta-synthesis as our research strategy and combine and interpret the findings from a set of systematically chosen case studies. Results: Our findings suggest that the impact of subsidiary characteristics varies considerably over time during the process. For the case of isolated subsidiaries, we adapt Schmid et al.'s (2014) process model and show how an isolated subsidiary can attract HQ attention due to subsidiary initiative taking at the subsidiary level. Research limitations: The included case studies have not been conducted to answer our research questions and our search strategy may have excluded further relevant studies. Practical implications: While managers of less-embedded subsidiaries should be aware of possible HQ resistance and show persistence over time, HQ managers should use HQ monitoring and reporting to detect silent, but motivated subsidiaries. Further, HQ managers are challenged to balance their (positive) attention towards subsidiaries. Originality of the paper: The paper is original in its use of a meta-synthesis that enables a more holistic and finer-grained understanding of subsidiary initiative processes and draws the attention to aspects that are underrepresented in the current body of subsidiary initiative research.

The role of the lead firm in exploratory projects

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 312-339
Author(s):  
Fangwei Zhu ◽  
Mengtong Jiang ◽  
Miao Yu
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Abductive Reasoning ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Multiple Case ◽  
Lead Firm ◽  
Exploratory Innovation ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The challenge of unforeseen uncertainties in exploratory projects requires the lead firm in a project alliance to effectively manage exploratory co-innovation. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the types of capabilities a lead firm required in exploratory projects and how these capabilities enable the exploratory innovation of the project alliance. Design/methodology/approach A multiple-case study was done to provide empirical evidence for the rationale of the capabilities of the lead firm. The provided analysis used abductive reasoning of two typical exploratory projects in China. Findings This paper identifies two types of capabilities: innovation-related capabilities and network-related capabilities. Furthermore, a process model of the capabilities of the lead firm is developed that enables exploratory co-innovation in a project alliance. The capabilities of the lead firm input varied at four different stages. Practical implications Innovation-related capabilities and network-related capabilities could form the foundation for the lead firm in an exploratory project alliance. This will enable an exploratory co-innovation and collaboratively overcome the barriers of exploratory projects. Originality/value Although exploratory project attracts extensive attention for its unique characteristics and universal value, there is limited amount of research on the context of joint exploratory projects. This study starts from the role of lead firm in an exploratory project alliance, contributes toward the comprehension of the link between the lead firm’s capabilities and the process of exploratory co-innovation. The findings will be of value in supporting the management of exploratory innovation in a project alliance.

Corporate sustainability in SMEs: an Asian perspective

2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 109-138
Author(s):  
Maitreyee Das ◽  
K. Rangarajan ◽  
Gautam Dutta
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Emerging Markets ◽  
Emerging Market ◽  
Corporate Sustainability ◽  
Literature Survey ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to do a thorough literature review to assess the current status of corporate sustainability (CS) practices, issues and challenges in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and based on literature suggest a model that can improve and strategically manage their sustainability practices in the emerging market context of Asia. Design/methodology/approach After setting the theoretical background on why the corporations need to shoulder the responsibility of sustainable development, the authors did a high level literature review to estimate the gap area and based on the findings formulated some research questions on why the SMEs, more specifically those in Asian emerging market, are lagging behind in terms of CS practices. Next, using the “literature survey” as the methodology the authors did a thorough in-depth literature review to answer the above research questions and organised the findings in light of those research questions. Considering the research gap and the crucial role of SMEs in a country’s economic progress the authors restricted the literature search on CS in the case of SMEs only. Findings CS is a well-practiced area in big organisations. However, the literature suggests that in the case of SMEs the situation is different. Social and environmental practices are grossly neglected in SMEs more specifically in emerging markets. Existing literature mentions that collaborative mode of operation, government policy and facilitation, supporting organisation culture can positively influence SME’s sustainability performance, and hence, improve their financial performance. Research limitations/implications The conceptual model has been developed based on suggestions and recommendations in western countries context. To establish the validity of the model in the Asian business scenario it needs to be tested with a sizable sample of SMEs in the Asian market. Practical implications The current paper has practical implications both for academic research on sustainable development and also in business development. The proposed model in the current form is based on the literature survey only. Once such a model is empirically established this can be proved beneficial for providing guidance to SMEs to enhance the sustainability of their business operations. Moreover, environmental and social best practices adopted by SMEs will also have a positive influence on society and the environment in the long run. Originality/value This paper had done a country-wise comparison of sustainable practices in SMEs and based on the recommendations and suggestions of different scholars as found in the detailed literature review, the authors developed few research propositions and also presented a conceptual model. Finally, to address the gap it mentions some future research possibilities to test and validate the proposed model in the context of SMEs in emerging markets of Asia.

Implications of self-managing teams for the HRM function

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 533-550 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maarten Renkema ◽  
Anna Bos-Nehles ◽  
Jeroen Meijerink
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Document Analysis ◽  
Healthcare Organisation ◽  
Line Managers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeOrganisations increasingly implement self-managing teams (SMTs) to empower their employees. By drawing from the HRM process model and multilevel thinking, this paper explores how the HRM function changes in terms of actors and activities when introducing SMTs.Design/methodology/approachAn in-depth, multilevel case study was conducted at a large healthcare organisation in The Netherlands, making use of 70 interviews, document analysis and observations.FindingsThe findings show that SMTs transform the HRM function by changing the responsibilities of teams, HRM professionals and line managers in the implementation of HRM activities. The analysis shows that many HRM responsibilities are devolved to SMTs, which are supported by the HRM department.Research limitations/implicationsThese changes in the HRM function influence the HRM implementation process and provide all actors with new roles and activities. Based on these findings, this paper presents an inductive model of HRM implementation.Practical implicationsThe findings help HRM practitioners to transform the HRM function when deciding to introduce SMTs.Originality/valueThis article is one of the first that empirically explores how the HRM function changes as a consequence of introducing SMTs. This is important because more and more organisations are adopting SMTs, while knowledge about the role of HRM is lacking.

R&D resources development in life sciences ventures: a dynamic capabilities perspective

2016 ◽  
Vol 23 (4) ◽  
pp. 1191-1207 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jon Carrick
Keyword(s):  
Global Economy ◽  
Small Firms ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Early Stage ◽  
Life Sciences ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the development of R&D resources in early stage life sciences firms. It looks at how young firms use dynamic capabilities to develop R&D resources. Design/methodology/approach An in-depth case study approach was used to examine the research questions. It draws on longitudinal data collected from ten life science firms. Data were collected from three rounds of interviews with each case firm. A systematic theme analysis was conducted to analyse the results. Findings Results from the study indicate that a unique set of past decisions, future opportunities, assets, capabilities, and routines leads to the development of R&D resources. It is evident that scientific breakthroughs, partnership opportunities, the founders’ experience and the firm’s ability to integrate resources and learn from earlier paths are vital to the development of R&D resources. Research limitations/implications This study extends the application of the dynamic capabilities framework to early stage life sciences ventures. It also demonstrates that dynamic capabilities can lead to the development of important resources. Practical implications The findings from this study provide prescriptive insights for evaluating alternatives on how to develop R&D resources in life sciences ventures. Originality/value Life sciences firms are critical to the modern global economy. However, little work examines how young, small life sciences firms develop R&D resources. Moreover, little work uses the dynamic capabilities framework as a lens to holistically examine how small firms develop R&D resources. This study helps to fill those gaps.

Overcoming irrationality: the Popperian approach

2017 ◽  
Vol 31 (2) ◽  
pp. 148-159
Author(s):  
Stephanie Chitpin
Keyword(s):  
Personal Experience ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Research Strategy ◽  
Educational Organizations ◽  
Limited Effect ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Prior Expectation ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Do So

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how associationism mistakenly assumes that direct experience is possible; that is, there is expectation-free observation and association without prior expectation. Thus, associationism assumes that learning involves the absorption of information from the environment itself. However, contrary arguments take the position that, for an individual to make a connection between his/her behaviour and its consequence(s), he/she must first have an expectation in order for a connection to be made. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a personal experience to illustrate how implicit assumptions and unstated expectations can be found in the corporate world. It offers to answer questions that will lead to an examination of overcoming irrationality through utilization of the Popperian philosophy of associationism. Findings When evaluating a practice, it is easier to find evidence of some sort to support the practice, especially if we are either disposed to do so or if our colleagues and organizations have recommended that we adopt these practices. However, if we are committed to genuinely improving our practice, Swann (2009) suggests that we become critical and ask, “What are the unintended and undesirable consequences of doing things this way?” (p. 8). Research limitations/implications Popper’s approach needs to be developed or learned through stages and with time. We need to be aware that it takes time to master the use of this approach. Merely introducing or having organizations learn the different methods or short cuts have only a limited effect in improving their ability to deal with issues in different contexts. Practical implications The examples used throughout this paper illustrate that the adoption of Popper’s approach does not necessarily require large-scale experiments. In fact, a well-conducted case study can be effective in casting doubt on existing assumptions. Regardless of the nature of the research strategy and the scale of the experiment devised to test a hypothesis, the task of testing can and will be problematic. Social implications Expectations can make us look foolish from time to time, but they can also be very powerful or useful because they are more than mere anticipation. If we are unable to strip away our preconceptions or prior knowledge, we can at least acknowledge our biases and, in doing so, we may not continue to be trapped within our own perspectives, which can blind us to the truth. Originality/value The examples used in this paper illustrate that Popper’s approach is robust and applicable in a variety of contexts and is not limited to educational organizations. Furthermore, it showcases our irrationality, and helps us understand when and where we may make erroneous decisions.

The role of talent development in environmentally sustainable hospitality

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 69-85 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Bratton
Keyword(s):  
Public Sector ◽  
Environmental Sustainability ◽  
Hospitality Industry ◽  
Talent Development ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Public And Private Sector ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of strategic talent development in supporting environmental management in the hospitality sector, as well as exploring its practical implications. Design/methodology/approach This paper examines a single public sector case study in the hospitality industry, a National Health Service conference centre. This case is part of a larger study in which qualitative and quantitative data were collected in six public and private sector workplaces in Scotland. Findings The findings emphasise the key role of leaders as change agents, and in promoting sustainability and encouraging workplace low-carbon behaviours. The findings demonstrate that an inclusive approach to talent development can play a key role in creating a pro-environmental culture and can significantly contribute to the long-term environmental sustainability of organisations. Research limitations/implications The scale of the research is limited to one public sector case study and restricted to the Scottish hospitality industry. Extending the research to multiple case studies in both the public and private sector in Scotland would be useful. Practical implications This paper makes recommendations about the role of line managers, blended learning strategies, organisational culture and employee participation in supporting workplace learning for sustainability. Originality/value This paper examines the role of strategic talent development in supporting environmental sustainability in the hospitality industry and provides unique insight for both academics and practitioners into a single public sector case study.

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