An attractiveness index based approach for warranty optimization

2015 ◽  
Vol 32 (4) ◽  
pp. 415-431 ◽  
Author(s):  
Prashant M. Ambad ◽  
Makarand S. Kulkarni
Keyword(s):  
Cost Model ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Design Stage ◽  
Optimization Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mean Time Between Failures ◽  
Component Selection ◽  
Decision Variables ◽  
Quantitative Manner

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop an attractiveness index-based warranty cost model considering decision variables as design alternatives, warranty duration and support level. Design/methodology/approach – A warranty optimization approach is illustrated using a real life example of an automobile engine with Mean Time Between Failures and Warranty Attractiveness Index as constraints. Findings – It will help to improve the customer satisfaction by giving a more attractive warranty compared to that being offered by the competitors. Practical implications – Approaches that consider the effect of decision variables on attractiveness of a warranty policy in a quantitative manner have received relatively less attention. The paper attempts to capture the attractiveness of warranty from the manufacturer as well as customer point of view. Originality/value – The proposed approach will help manufacturers to take appropriate decisions related to warranty parameters and component selection at the design stage.

A warranty based bilateral multi-issue negotiation approach

2015 ◽  
Vol 22 (7) ◽  
pp. 1247-1280 ◽  
Author(s):  
Prashant M. Ambad ◽  
Makarand S. Kulkarni
Keyword(s):  
Real Life ◽  
Spare Parts ◽  
Negotiation Process ◽  
Design Stage ◽  
Automated Negotiation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mean Time Between Failures ◽  
Time Between Failures ◽  
Target Values ◽  
Mean Time

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a warranty-based bilateral automated multi-issue negotiation approach. Design/methodology/approach – A methodology for bilateral automated negotiation process is developed considering the targets such as warranty attractiveness, warranty cost, mean time between failures, spare parts cost to the end user over the useful life of the life. The negotiation methodology is explained using different cases of negotiation. The optimization for each negotiation step is carried out using genetic algorithm with elitism strategy. Findings – The result after optimization indicates that the desired target values are achieved and manufacturer obtained desired profit margin. Practical implications – Application of automated negotiation model is illustrated using a real life case of an automobile engine manufacturer. The proposed approach helps the manufacturer of any product to develop a methodology for carrying out the negotiation process. The approach also results into taking warranty-related decisions at the design stage. Originality/value – This paper contributes in proposing a generalized methodology for warranty-based negotiation in which the negotiation is carried out between the manufacturer and the customer.

LRFMP model for customer segmentation in the grocery retail industry: a case study

2017 ◽  
Vol 35 (4) ◽  
pp. 544-559 ◽  
Author(s):  
Serhat Peker ◽  
Altan Kocyigit ◽  
P. Erhan Eren
Keyword(s):  
Real Life ◽  
Customer Segmentation ◽  
Marketing Strategies ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Customer Relationships ◽  
Retail Industry ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Rfm Model ◽  
Customer Profiles ◽  
Loyal Customers

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a new RFM model called length, recency, frequency, monetary and periodicity (LRFMP) for classifying customers in the grocery retail industry; and to identify different customer segments in this industry based on the proposed model. Design/methodology/approach This study combines the LRFMP model and clustering for customer segmentation. Real-life data from a grocery chain operating in Turkey is used. Three cluster validation indices are used for optimizing the number of groups of customers and K-means algorithm is employed to cluster customers. First, attributes of the LRFMP model are extracted for each customer, and then based on LRFMP model features, customers are segmented into different customer groups. Finally, identified customer segments are profiled based on LRFMP characteristics and for each customer profile, unique CRM and marketing strategies are recommended. Findings The results show that there are five different customer groups and based on LRFMP characteristics, they are profiled as: “high-contribution loyal customers,” “low-contribution loyal customers,” “uncertain customers,” “high-spending lost customers” and “low-spending lost customers.” Practical implications This research may provide researchers and practitioners with a systematic guideline for effectively identifying different customer profiles based on the LRFMP model, give grocery companies useful insights about different customer profiles, and assist decision makers in developing effective customer relationships and unique marketing strategies, and further allocating resources efficiently. Originality/value This study contributes to prior literature by proposing a new RFM model, called LRFMP for the customer segmentation and providing useful insights about behaviors of different customer types in the Turkish grocery industry. It is also precious from the point of view that it is one of the first attempts in the literature which investigates the customer segmentation in the grocery retail industry.

scholarly journals Optimization Models for Efficient (t, r) Broadcast Domination in Graphs

Symmetry ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 1028
Author(s):  
Poompol Buathong ◽  
Tipaluck Krityakierne
Keyword(s):  
Biological Networks ◽  
Domination Number ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Optimization Approach ◽  
Grid Graphs ◽  
Theoretical Approaches ◽  
Graphs And Networks ◽  
Domination In Graphs ◽  
Distance Domination

Known to be NP-complete, domination number problems in graphs and networks arise in many real-life applications, ranging from the design of wireless sensor networks and biological networks to social networks. Initially introduced by Blessing et al., the (t,r) broadcast domination number is a generalization of the distance domination number. While some theoretical approaches have been addressed for small values of t,r in the literature; in this work, we propose an approach from an optimization point of view. First, the (t,r) broadcast domination number is formulated and solved using linear programming. The efficient broadcast, whose wasted signals are minimized, is then found by a genetic algorithm modified for a binary encoding. The developed method is illustrated with several grid graphs: regular, slant, and king’s grid graphs. The obtained computational results show that the method is able to find the exact (t,r) broadcast domination number, and locate an efficient broadcasting configuration for larger values of t,r than what can be provided from a theoretical basis. The proposed optimization approach thus helps overcome the limitations of existing theoretical approaches in graph theory.

scholarly journals Generative BIM workspace for AEC conceptual design automation: prototype development

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sepehr Abrishami ◽  
Jack Goulding ◽  
Farzad Rahimian
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Design ◽  
Design Process ◽  
Design Automation ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Theoretical Research ◽  
Design Stage ◽  
Generative Design ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Prototype Development ◽  
Conceptual Design Stage

PurposeThe integration and automation of the whole design and implementation process have become a pivotal factor in construction projects. Problems of process integration, particularly at the conceptual design stage, often manifest through a number of significant areas, from design representation, cognition and translation to process fragmentation and loss of design integrity. Whilst building information modelling (BIM) applications can be used to support design automation, particularly through the modelling, amendment and management stages, they do not explicitly provide whole design integration. This is a significant challenge. However, advances in generative design now offer significant potential for enhancing the design experience to mitigate this challenge.Design/methodology/approachThe approach outlined in this paper specifically addresses BIM deficiencies at the conceptual design stage, where the core drivers and indicators of BIM and generative design are identified and mapped into a generative BIM (G-BIM) framework and subsequently embedded into a G-BIM prototype. This actively engages generative design methods into a single dynamic BIM environment to support the early conceptual design process. The developed prototype followed the CIFE “horseshoe” methodology of aligning theoretical research with scientific methods to procure architecture, construction and engineering (AEC)-based solutions. This G-BIM prototype was also tested and validated through a focus group workshop engaging five AEC domain experts.FindingsThe G-BIM prototype presents a valuable set of rubrics to support the conceptual design stage using generative design. It benefits from the advanced features of BIM tools in relation to illustration and collaboration (coupled with BIM's parametric change management features).Research limitations/implicationsThis prototype has been evaluated through multiple projects and scenarios. However, additional test data is needed to further improve system veracity using conventional and non-standard real-life design settings (and contexts). This will be reported in later works.Originality/valueOriginality and value rest with addressing the shortcomings of previous research on automation during the design process. It also addresses novel computational issues relating to the implementation of generative design systems, where, for example, instead of engaging static and formal description of the domain concepts, G-BIM actively enhances the applicability of BIM during the early design stages to generate optimised (and more purposeful) design solutions.

scholarly journals Facilitation fundamentals: redesigning an online course using adult learning principles and trifecta of student engagement framework

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather J. Leslie
Keyword(s):  
Student Engagement ◽  
Adult Learning ◽  
Teaching Strategies ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
The Body ◽  
Online Course ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Adult Learning Principles ◽  
Learning Principles

PurposeThe purpose was to describe the redesigning of an online course that utilized adult learning principles and a framework to engage students.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology used is a first person account from the instructor point of view.FindingsFindings indicate that the teaching strategies used encouraged student engagement in the course.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to one course with less than 20 students.Practical implicationsOther online instructors can utilize teaching strategies used that promote engagement among students.Social implicationsThis course is an example of a highly engaging online course. This shows that online courses can be engaging and satisfying for students.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the body of literature on what teaching strategies encourage students to engage online. It connects theories with real life examples that others teaching online can implement.

An integrated strategy for fleet maintenance planning

2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (4) ◽  
pp. 457-478 ◽  
Author(s):  
Manish Rawat ◽  
Bhupesh Kumar Lad
Keyword(s):  
Failure Rate ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Complex Problem ◽  
General Assumption ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
System Structure ◽  
Imperfect Maintenance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Integrated Strategy

Purpose Conventionally, fleet maintenance decisions are made based on the level of repair (LOR) analysis. A general assumption made during LOR analysis is the consideration of the lifetime distribution with constant failure rate (CFR). However, industries do use preventive maintenance (PM) to extend the life of such components, which in turn may affect the LOR decisions such as repair/move/discard. The CFR assumption does not allow the consideration of effect of PM in LOR analysis. The purpose of this paper is to develop a more practical LOR analysis approach, considering the time-dependent failure rate (TDFR) of components and the effect of PM. Design/methodology/approach In the proposed methodology, first, a detailed life cycle model considering the effect of various parameters related to LOR and PM is developed. A simulation-based genetic algorithm approach is then used to obtain an integrated solution for LOR and PM schedule decisions. The model is also evaluated for the various cases of quality of maintenance measured in terms of degree of restoration. Findings The results, from the illustrative example for a multi-indenture and multi-echelon fleet maintenance network, show that the proposed integrated strategy leads to better LCC performance compare to the conventional approach. Additionally, it is identified that the degree of restoration also affects the PM schedule as well as LOR decisions of the fleet system. Therefore, consideration of TDFR is important to truly optimize the LOR decisions. The proposed approach can be applied to fleet of any equipment. Research limitations/implications The approach is illustrated using a hypothetical example of an industrial system. A more complex system structure in terms of number of machines, types of machines (identical vs non-identical), number of echelons, possible repair actions at various echelons, etc. may be present for a particular industrial case. However, the approach presented is generic and can be extended to any system. Moreover, the aim of the paper is to highlight the importance of the considering PM and quality of maintenance in LOR decision making. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first work which considers the effect of PM and quality of maintenance on LOR analysis. Consideration of TDFR and imperfect maintenance while optimizing LOR decisions is a complex problem. Thus, the work is of high significance from the research point of view. Also, most of the real life fleet systems use PM to extend the life of the equipment. Thus, present paper is a more practical approach for LOR analysis of such systems.

Constrained optimal design of X̅ control chart with multiple assignable causes under Burr XII failure mechanism

2018 ◽  
Vol 35 (9) ◽  
pp. 1809-1834 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aitin Saadatmeli ◽  
Mohamad Bameni Moghadam ◽  
Asghar Seif ◽  
Alireza Faraz
Keyword(s):  
Control Chart ◽  
Control Charts ◽  
Cost Model ◽  
Continuous Process ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Statistical Design ◽  
Design Parameters ◽  
Shock Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Burr Xii Distribution

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a cost model by the variable sampling interval and optimization of the average cost per unit of time. The paper considers an economic–statistical design of the X̅ control charts under the Burr shock model and multiple assignable causes were considered and compared with three types of prior distribution for the mean shift parameter. Design/methodology/approach The design of the modified X̅ chart is based on the two new concepts of adjusted average time to signal and average number of false alarms for X̅ control chart under Burr XII shock model with multiple assignable causes. Findings The cost model was examined through a numerical example, with the same cost and time parameters, so the optimal of design parameters were obtained under uniform and non-uniform sampling schemes. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis was conducted in a way that the variability of loss cost and design parameters was evaluated supporting the changes of cost, time and Burr XII distribution parameters. Research limitations/implications The economic–statistical model scheme of X̅ chart was developed for the Burr XII distributed with multiple assignable causes. The correlated data are among the assumptions to be examined. Moreover, the optimal schemes for the economic-statistic chart can be expanded for correlated observation and continuous process. Practical implications The economic–statistical design of control charts depends on the process shock model distribution and due to difficulties from both theoretical and practical aspects; one of the proper alternatives may be the Burr XII distribution which is quite flexible. Yet, in Burr distribution context, only one assignable cause model was considered where more realistic approach may be to consider multiple assignable causes. Originality/value This study presents an advanced theoretical model for cost model that improved the shock model that presented in the literature. The study obviously indicates important evidence to justify the implementation of cost models in a real-life industry.

The effect of mergers and acquisitions on customer–company relationships

2019 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 406-424
Author(s):  
Paula Alvarez-González ◽  
Carmen Otero-Neira
Keyword(s):  
Mergers And Acquisitions ◽  
Consumer Satisfaction ◽  
Banking Sector ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Customer Relationship ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Financial Activity ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore employees’ perceptions about customers’ reactions to mergers and acquisitions (M&A). In particular, the aim is to explore how M&A in the banking sector affects the relationship between customers and the financial entity in a real-life context. Design/methodology/approach Using a case analysis methodology, this paper investigates the most important cases of M&A that occurred between 54 retail banks and saving banks in the Spanish market between 2009 and 2014. To do so, 36 face-to-face exploratory interviews were conducted amongst a sample of employees selected through a purposive sampling technique. Findings The perceptions of the employees about the impact of the M&A on customer relationship development suggest that financial M&A negatively affect prices, the location and closeness of the branches, and the routines of the financial activity, and positively affect products and services offered after the M&A. Research limitations/implications Given that the objective is to explore perceptions rather than test them, despite being insightful, the results of this study should be generalised with caution. Originality/value This paper explores customer responses and attitudes towards financial M&A from the point of view of marketing. This paper considers the effect that M&A changes generate on consumer satisfaction and bank−client long-term relationships.

A bi-level decision-making approach for the vendor selection problem with random supply and demand

2019 ◽  
Vol 58 (6) ◽  
pp. 1164-1189
Author(s):  
Syed Mohd Muneeb ◽  
Mohammad Asim Nomani ◽  
Malek Masmoudi ◽  
Ahmad Yusuf Adhami
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Controlling Factors ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Selection Problem ◽  
Chance Constrained Programming ◽  
Vendor Selection ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Decision Variables ◽  
Level Of Satisfaction

Purpose Supplier selection problem is the key process in decision making of supply chain management. An effective selection of vendors is heavily responsible for the success of any organization. Vendor selection problem (VSP) reflects a more practical view when the decision makers involved in the problem are present on different levels. Moreover, vendor selection consists of various random parameters to be dealt with in real life. The purpose of this paper is to present a decentralized bi-level VSP where demand and supply are normal random variables and objectives are fuzzy in nature. Decision makers are present at two levels and are called as leader and follower. As the next purpose, this paper extends and presents a solution approach for fuzzy bi-level multi-objective decision-making model with stochastic constraints. Different scenarios have been developed within a real-life case study based on different sets of controlling factors under the control of leader. Design/methodology/approach This study uses chance-constrained programming and fuzzy set theory to generate the results. Stochastic constraints are converted into deterministic constraints using chance-constrained programming. Decision variables in the bi-level VSP are partitioned between the two levels and considered as controlling factors. Membership functions based on fuzzy set theory are created for the goals and controlling factors and are used to obtain the overall satisfactory solutions. The model is tested on a real-life case study of a textile industry and different scenarios are constructed based on the choice of leader’s controlling factors. Findings Results showed that the approach is quite helpful as it generates efficient results producing a good level of satisfaction for the decision makers of both the levels. Results showed that on choosing the vendors that are associated with worst values in terms of associated costs, vendor ratings and quota flexibilities as controlling factors by the leaders, the level of satisfaction achieved is highest. The level of satisfaction of solution is lowest for the scenario when the leader chooses to control the decision variables associated with vendors that are profiled with minimum vendor ratings. Results also showed that higher availability of materials and budget with vendors proved helpful in obtaining quota allocations. Different scenarios generate different results along with different values of satisfaction degrees and objective values which shows the flexible feature of the approach based on leader’s choice of controlling factors. Numerical results showed that the leader’s control can be effectively incorporated maintaining satisfaction levels of the followers under various scenarios or conditions. Research limitations/implications The paper makes a certain contribution toward the study of vendor selection existing in a hierarchical manner under uncertain environment. A wide set of data of different factors is needed which can be seen as a limitation when the available time is short for the supplier selection process. Practical implications VSP which is generally adopted by most of the large organizations is characterized with hierarchical decision making. Moreover, dealing with the real-life concern, the data available for some of the parameters are not complete, representing an uncertainty of parameters. This study is quite helpful for decentralized VSP under uncertain environment to reduce the costs, improve profit margins and to create long-term relationships with selected vendors. The proposed model also provides an avenue to explore the decision making when the leader has control over some of the decision variables. Originality/value Reviewing the literature available, this is the first attempt to present a multi-objective VSP where the decision makers are at hierarchical levels considering uncertain parameters such as demand and supply as per the best knowledge of authors. This research further provides an approach to construct scenarios or different cases based on the choice of leader’s choice of controlling factors.

Utilizing Kaizen process and DFSS methodology for new product development

2017 ◽  
Vol 34 (3) ◽  
pp. 378-394 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mahmoud Awad ◽  
Yassir A. Shanshal
Keyword(s):  
Product Development ◽  
New Product Development ◽  
Real Life ◽  
New Product ◽  
Design Stage ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Early Design ◽  
Early Design Stage ◽  
Kaizen Events

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a new framework for early design stage utilizing the benefits of Kaizen events, and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) methodology. To gain a better understanding of the proposed method, a case study of a diesel engine development was presented where the proposed methodology was followed. Design/methodology/approach This paper proposes a hybrid Kaizen DFSS methodology consisting of four Kaizen milestone events with pre-work preceding these events. The events are in line with the four phases of DFSS methodology (define, characterize, optimize, and verify). Findings In order for the proposed method to succeed, few key enablers should be available such as management buy-in and support, effective resources utilization, and proper planning. However, this methodology should be utilized for key projects where criticality is high and deadlines are nearby. Practical implications As proved by two projects, one of them is presented in this paper; the use of the proposed methodology is effective and can bring significant positive changes to an organization. Originality/value Although Kaizen is an old and well-known process, it is to the best of the author’s knowledge that Kaizen has not been utilized in the early design stages of new product development projects. In this paper, a hybrid methodology combining traditional DFSS systematic approach conducted using Kaizen improvement events is proposed and supported by a real-life case study.

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