scholarly journals The lean-performance relationship in services: a theoretical model

2014 ◽  
Vol 34 (6) ◽  
pp. 750-785 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wael Hadid ◽  
S. Afshin Mansouri
Keyword(s):  
Theoretical Model ◽  
Organizational Performance ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Universal Theory ◽  
Contextual Variables ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Literature ◽  
Expected Outcome ◽  
Potential Impact

Purpose – The extant literature on lean service reveals a noticeable lack of theoretical models establishing the core constructs of lean service, their interrelation and impact on organizational performance. The purpose of this paper is to address this gap by proposing a theoretical model in which lean constructs are identified and operationalized to establish their interrelation and impact on organizational performance. Design/methodology/approach – This paper synthesizes information drawing on a systematic review of the literature on lean service, other relevant academic literature to develop a theoretical model and a set of propositions. Drawing on the universal theory, socio-technical systems theory and contingency theory (CT), the paper highlights and clarifies the potential impact of lean service on operational and financial performance. Findings – This study identifies a comprehensive set of lean technical practices, lean supportive practices, inhibitors and expected outcome of lean service. Expected relationships among those constructs are established by developing a conceptual framework with several propositions based on the relevant literature and the socio-technical system theory, the universal perspective and the CT, when relevant. Moreover, six influential contextual variables on the lean-performance relation are identified based on a review of the management accounting literature, organizational strategy literature and diversification literature to overcome limitations of previous studies. Originality/value – This paper covers a gap in the literature by identifying and operationalizing lean service constructs and offering a theoretical model with several propositions that establish relationships between lean constructs and overcome limitations in previous studies by identifying six contextual variables that are important factors in the lean-performance associations.

Global challenges, sustainable development, and their implications for organizational performance

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (4) ◽  
pp. 430-446 ◽  
Author(s):  
Busaya Virakul
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Organizational Performance ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Business Practices ◽  
Business Organizations ◽  
Effective Response ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Global Challenges ◽  
Sustainability Policy ◽  
The Impact

Purpose – This paper aims to propose an effective response by business organizations to the impact of global challenges and sustainable development (SD). It also presents an overview model of organizational performance employing such an approach. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is a conceptual work based upon a review of theories, research findings and reports gathered from relevant literature. The review yielded the following research framework: many countries are facing global challenges; these global challenges are affecting business organizations as external factors; SD is a concept employed to address these challenges; SD can be applied in business organizations through corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate governance (CG) and sustainability policy and practices; and embedding CSR, CG and sustainability concepts at a strategic level is an effective response to global challenges. Findings – Global challenges are impacting on business organizations and will continue to do so into the future. CSR, CG and sustainability concepts are increasingly being adopted by leading business organizations throughout the world. Embedding CSR, CG and sustainability concepts at a strategic level can sustain long-term organizational performance, as they help businesses face global challenges in a positive manner and maintain their position in societies on good terms with all stakeholders. Research limitations/implications – Different cultural or socio-economic environments may limit the interpretation and application of the findings or propositions in this research. Practical implications – How CSR, CG and sustainability concepts can be holistically implemented in business practices. Social implications – The role of business in lessening the effect of global challenges and supporting SD is illustrated in the proposed model. Originality/value – This paper demonstrates connections among the following critical influences on organizational performance: global challenges; SD; and CSR, CG and sustainability.

What happens when “younger” helpers meet “older” recipients? A theoretical analysis of interpersonal helping behaviour in Chinese organizations

2014 ◽  
Vol 27 (4) ◽  
pp. 677-691 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shih Yung Chou ◽  
Wenkai Yang ◽  
Bo Han
Keyword(s):  
Theoretical Model ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Helping Behavior ◽  
Problem Solver ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Share Task ◽  
Younger Generation ◽  
Interpersonal Helping

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical model describing psychological states and behavioral outcomes experienced and exhibited by older generation interpersonal helping behavior (IHB) recipients in Chinese organizations. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws upon relevant literature and develops a theoretical model. Findings – The analysis suggests that the extent of IHB that older generation Chinese employees receive from younger generation employees will lead to loss of mianzi, which will then result in reduced perceived generational guanxi, increased intended social isolation, and reduced intention to share task-related knowledge with the younger generation employees. The paper also proposes that perceived generational guanxi and intended social isolation will mediate the relationship between loss of mianzi and intention to share task-related knowledge with younger generation employees. Practical implications – Because mianzi is an important cultural feature in Chinese societies, this paper provides four implications. First, younger generation employees could preserve and/or enhance older generation employees’ mianzi using less powerful messages. Second, younger generation employees should initiate task behaviors involving seeking opinions and expertise from older generation employees before exhibiting IHB. Third, mangers could reduce the negative impact of generational differences by establishing generational mentoring relationships between younger and older generation employees. Finally, younger generation employees could preserve and/or enhance older generation employees’ mianzi by playing the role of an informal subordinate rather than a problem solver when exhibiting IHB. Originality/value – This paper is the first study exploring consequences of IHB from the perceptive of older generation IHB recipients in the Chinese context.

An empirical analysis of the effect of MBA programs on organizational success

2014 ◽  
Vol 28 (4) ◽  
pp. 451-460 ◽  
Author(s):  
Atul Gupta ◽  
Sara E. Bennett
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Performance ◽  
Work Experience ◽  
Local Governments ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Local Economy ◽  
Special Importance ◽  
Recent Criticism ◽  
Mba Programs ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mba Program

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the value of Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The authors aim to bridge the gap between the theory and individual understanding of the value of an MBA program. Design/methodology/approach – This empirical paper used a non-experimental design to test a proposed model based on a review of relevant literature. MBA alumni completed surveys capturing the constructs researched. Findings – The findings of this research suggest that an MBA adds value to both MBA alumni as well as the organizations who hire them. The main source of this value is the knowledge and skills acquired while taking academic courses in the MBA program. Research limitations/implications – The implication of this research is that an MBA does add value to students that is not necessarily obtained through work experience alone. Practical implications – The MBA degree qualifies an individual to manage an organization. An MBA does provide high potential for return on investment to both individuals well as the organization who hires them. Social implications – Economic growth requires entrepreneurs, professionals, business specialists, and managers. The research findings provide evidence that MBA program graduates do make a significant contribution toward improving the organization employing them. These profitable organizations in turn invest back in the community they operate in and help to improve the overall socio-economic fabric of the local economy. The results of this study also suggest that investment in MBA programs by local governments could bring back significant returns to the community in terms of job growth and availability of quality workforce. Originality/value – Although a considerable amount has been written about the value of an MBA education, there is still a lack of research in the area linking human capital with organizational performance for MBA graduates. This contribution is also of special importance amid the recent criticism of the MBA by prominent management scholars.

On Quality 4.0 in project-based industries

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (4) ◽  
pp. 725-739
Author(s):  
Jan Emblemsvåg
Keyword(s):  
Quality Management ◽  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Oil And Gas Industry ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Future Contract ◽  
Total Quality ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeProject-based industries seem ignored in the quality management literature. These industries have some peculiarities that warrant attention, and the purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the critical aspects of project-based industries concerning quality management and particularly Quality 4.0.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is based on reviewing the literature and then developing the paper using basic definitions, literature, logic and experience. It should be noted that the type of literature review is so-called “integrative” due to the fact that the topic of this paper is new. Furthermore, for this paper, as for integrative literature reviews in general, the purpose is to create initial and preliminary conceptualizations and theoretical models, rather than review old models. Creative collection of data is therefore key to combine perspectives and insights from different sources. This paper is therefore more a discussion piece rather than a paper presenting results per se. The relevant literature is only a starting point from which the argument is developed.FindingsThe paper demonstrates that quality management in project-based industries is outdated, driven by adversarial and legalistic interpretations of contracts, which results in manual work and reactive quality management. Initially, this can be a stumbling block for Quality 4.0. However, the greater credibility and transparency of Quality 4.0 technologies can enable relational contracting such as partnering. This will subsequently result in major improvements in total quality.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was initially triggered by industry experience over years. The empirical aspect of the paper is therefore related to the construction, shipbuilding and the oil and gas industry. Because contracting regimes are similar across these industries, the findings are arguably applicable to other project-based industries. However, this is not demonstrated. Furthermore, as the topic is new to both literature and practice it is likely that the paper has not covered all relevant aspects that will emerge as the ideas are implemented.Practical implicationsThe paper supports the argument for developing the contracting into a relational approach away from the adversarial and legalistic approach of today. It is illustrated how Quality 4.0 technologies can help in this transition. Therefore, the practical implications can become substantial in how industry works and the research about it.Social implicationsIf the ideas were implemented, they could change contract management in project-based industries from the adversarial approach of today to genuine cooperation. It would therefore be relevant for teaching future contract managers. The project outcomes would also result in improved quality and reduce the loss to society.Originality/valueThe combination of Quality 4.0, new contracting regimes and project-based industries is according to the knowledge of this author, an original contribution that can help people improve the management of quality in project-based industries. With these industries constituting a large and growing share of an economy, the value can also become significant once practical issues concerning implementation are sorted out.

The temporal dimension from the perspective of internationalisation: a theoretical discussion

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Beatrice Zanellato Mayer ◽  
Dinora Eliete Floriani
Keyword(s):  
Theoretical Model ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Time Dimension ◽  
Temporal Dimension ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Negative Results ◽  
Experience Of Time ◽  
Temporal Aspects ◽  
Post Entry

Purpose This paper aims to analyse how the temporal dimension is conceptualised in studies of the internationalisation process of firms and its implications. Theoretical models such as U-Model and INV explain the process of internationalisation as dynamic; nonetheless, time is approached as an underlying aspect of the process. In this essay, time is brought to the spotlight since, despite its strategic relevance, it has been treated implicitly in studies of the internationalisation processes, except in those that address the speed of internationalisation. Design/methodology/approach Based on a critical reassessment of the academic literature, the authors present theoretical arguments and highlight elements to be considered in the analysis of the temporal dimension throughout the internationalisation process of firms. Findings This essay focuses on expanding the comprehension of temporality in the internationalisation process, that underlies periods of changes, implied also in periods of stability. The paper discusses time dimension implications during the internationalisation process and reveals that there is an interaction between temporal verticality (context/events), subjective dimension of time (perception and interpretation of time) and objective dimension of time (stability and changes). Therefore, it sustains that these interactions compress past, present and future actions in the internationalisation process. Research limitations/implications Because of the chosen research approach, this essay did not empirically apply the theoretical model and propositions. Therefore, future studies may empirically apply the propositions and use the temporal lens to look deeper at the temporality of internationalisation process and shed further light on the mechanisms that interlink the pre-and post-entry phases. Practical implications The argument helps entrepreneurs understand that actions throughout the internationalisation process are also influenced by the experience of time and not only governed by rational matters. Changes in the context can alter the perception of present time as being restricted, and in turn, may alter the flux of future internationalisation actions. However, if actions are conducted in a precipitated manner it can bring forth negative results for the firm. It is essential to recognise the importance of temporal verticality and subjective dimension of time as influencers of future actions of the objective dimension of time in the process of internationalisation. Originality/value While most research is restricted to understanding time as speed, this essay brings a theoretical model extending the knowledge of time in the literature of international business and international entrepreneurship, by including factors that imply temporality. By explaining the relationship between temporal aspects, it is argued that temporal verticality (events and context) influences temporal subjectivity (perception of the present and interpretation of the past) to direct future actions of the temporality of internationalisation (stability and changes).

System dynamics applications in performance measurement research: progress and challenges

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Olufunke Oladimeji ◽  
Jennifer Cross ◽  
Heather Keathley-Herring
Keyword(s):  
System Dynamics ◽  
Performance Measurement ◽  
Organizational Performance ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Research Area ◽  
Strategic Decision ◽  
Research Progress ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Applications

PurposeA systematic literature review (SLR) was used to identify and analyze literature related to use of system dynamics (SD) applications in organizational performance measurement (PM) research. The purpose of this article is to present the results of a thematic analysis (TA) conducted to synthesize existing empirical evidence, investigate trends and evaluate developments in the research area.Design/methodology/approachA SLR was conducted resulting in a dataset of 97 articles in this research area. Using TA, major themes/subthemes were inductively synthesized to explore the current development and emerging trends and provide guidance for future research.FindingsThe TA resulted in seven themes in the research area – Enhancing knowledge, Approaches to operationalizing PM systems, Utilizing simulation models, Improving organizational outcomes, Achieving strategic alignment, Applying systems thinking and Identifying critical variables. The analysis suggests that although SD has the potential to improve PM systems, there are many limitations and challenges that must be addressed to improve implementation and practical applications. In addition, the results showed that much of the work is exploratory and many fail to fully validate their models suggesting that this research is still in an relatively early phase of development.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this study are limited to the 97 articles identified using the SLR protocol. Although the search was designed to be comprehensive, there may be other relevant literature that was excluded. Further, the TA was limited to addressing the research questions.Practical implicationsA key insight for managers is that these tools would support decision-makers in understanding performance behaviors and identifying performance drivers for improvement. This suggests that stakeholders can adopt the approach to improve understanding and effectiveness of PM, and to enhance strategic decision-making.Originality/valueThis study provides a distinct and thorough analysis of this research area by conducting an inductive synthesis of developments and challenges and guidance for future research and practice. The resulting thematic model, identified code definitions and proposed framework of strategies to overcome challenges, provide a general overview and resource to support future studies in the research area and facilitate practical use of SD capabilities to support PM.

When is helping considered helping? The recipient’s view of helping during the stages of receiving help

2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 79-95 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shih Yung Chou ◽  
Charles Ramser ◽  
Tree Chang
Keyword(s):  
Theoretical Model ◽  
Attribution Theory ◽  
Social Cognitive ◽  
Cognitive Theory ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Self Consistency ◽  
Theoretical Standpoint

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical model that describes when helping is considered helping from the recipient’s point of view.Design/methodology/approachThe theoretical model was conceptually developed by drawing upon attribution theory, self-consistency theory and social cognitive theory, as well as relevant literature.FindingsThe authors propose that receiving help encompasses three sequential stages: the pre-help-receiving stage, the help-receiving stage and the post-help-receiving stage. Additionally, the authors theorize that the more other-oriented helping motives are attributed by the recipient, the more likely the recipient views the helper’s help as helping, that the more self-esteem preserving behaviors along with helping actions the recipient receives from the helper, the more likely the recipient views the helper’s help as helping and that the more gaps between actual and desired level of task performance are closed by the helper’s help, the more likely the recipient views the helper’s help as helping.Originality/valueFrom a theoretical standpoint, this paper offers a process approach that may guide future research on help receiving in organizations.

scholarly journals Women’s football studies: an integrative review

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (5) ◽  
pp. 511-528 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurizio Valenti ◽  
Nicolas Scelles ◽  
Stephen Morrow
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Subject Area ◽  
Integrative Review ◽  
Integrative Approach ◽  
Sociological Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Literature ◽  
The Social ◽  
Women's Football

Purpose Women’s football has received increasing attention in the academic literature, partly due to its growing popularity worldwide. However, women’s football research remains scattered across numerous academic domains. Focusing on the social sciences, humanities and management disciplines, the purpose of this paper is to map and organise contributions, and to identify research directions for future studies within these disciplines. Design/methodology/approach Using the keywords “women”, “girls”, “female” and “football” or “soccer” to initially identify articles, an integrative approach was followed to evaluate and analyse relevant literature. In all, 117 academic journals were classified and subsequently divided into 26 themes according to the subject area, topic and level examined. Findings Results of this integrative review show an increasing trend of journal publications since 1998, with a large representation of studies related to historical and sociological research, where qualitative methods are dominant. Articles investigating economic, managerial and marketing areas appeared in more recent times. Women’s football has been researched from different perspectives (players, fans, sport organisations) and across various countries. Research limitations/implications The restricted scope of this review (i.e. its focus on social sciences) and the manual classification of articles represent two limitations of this study. However, the synthesis of academic literature provided may assist scholars who are interested in women’s football and women’s sports research to fill identified research gaps and contribute to further advance academic investigations in this area. Originality/value This paper provides an overview of salient research avenues and represents the first attempt to critically appraise the direction of academic contributions in women’s football for the purpose of advancing scholarly inquiry in this sport.

Effects of organizational learning on performance: the moderating roles of trust in leaders and organizational justice

2019 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 313-331 ◽  
Author(s):  
Seok-Young Oh
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Learning ◽  
Theoretical Model ◽  
Organizational Performance ◽  
Organizational Justice ◽  
Distribution System ◽  
Objective Measure ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Transfer Of Knowledge ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Feedback Learning

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify how organizational learning processes influence perceived organizational performance and examine the moderating roles of organizational justice and trust in managers therein.Design/methodology/approachThis study develops a theoretical model to exhibit how knowledge acquisition and transfer activities influence perceived organizational performance. Data were collected from 515 respondents and analyzed by PROCESS macro for SPSS.FindingsThis study found that feedback learning flows are strongly mediated between learning stocks and organizational performance. It also found that organizational justice moderates the effect of learning stocks on organizational performance through feed-forward learning flows, while trust in manager moderates the effect of learning stocks on organizational performance through feedback learning flows.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has a limitation in which it uses self-report data to measure all constructs. The objective measure may be necessary for future study.Practical implicationsThe implications of this study are twofold. First, it finds that the higher organizational justice, the better the transfer of knowledge from the bottom up. When firms need to explore new knowledge, fairness in procedure and the distribution system is critical. Second, the higher the trust in management, the better the transfer of knowledge from the top down. The role of managers is instrumental in persuading employees and disseminating knowledge.Originality/valueCombining functionalist and critical perspectives and developing a theoretical model, this study contributes to the understanding of how trust and justice facilitate learning activities within organizations.

Measuring shared value in multinational corporations

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (4) ◽  
pp. 917-933 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Laudal
Keyword(s):  
Multinational Corporations ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Shared Value ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Literature ◽  
Creating Shared Value ◽  
Environmental Criteria ◽  
Corporate Social ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose According to the paper “Creating shared value” (CSV) (Porter and Kramer, 2011), three specific strategies will expand the firm’s pool of available economic and social values and improve businesses’ competitive position over time. However, firms’ performances are not systematically compared to validate this claim. The purpose of this paper is to suggest a path towards delineating CSV to validate the claim and to contribute to the foundation of an industry-specific ranking based on CSV. Design/methodology/approach This paper attempts to delineate CSV based on relevant literature, including the critique of CSV, to measure CSV empirically. The suggested indicators of CSV are based on an interpretation of Porter and Kramer (2011) referring to a market-centric approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Findings None of the CSV strategies proposed by Porter and Kramer (2011) are new to the academic literature, though several scholars argue that these strategies, taken together, characterize prosperous multinational corporations (MNCs). Research limitations/implications The relevance and usefulness of the indicators presented here will vary among industries. Practical implications CSV indicators may be the source for an industry-specific ranking of MNCs. An index based on these indicators may reveal systematic differences between industries. Social implications A CSV index would include synergies between commercial and CSR-related performances of firms. If a CSV index attracts international attention, the rank of an MNC would indicate to what degree MNCs succeed in integrating their commercial and CSR-related strategies and influence the valuation of firms. Originality/value A CSV index based on these indicators enables to rank MNCs according to both commercial, social and environmental criteria, and thereby transcend the divide between CSR indexes and commercial indexes.

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