Reconciling the historical divide between strategy process and strategy content

2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 401-427
Author(s):  
Craig Randall ◽  
Eric B. Dent
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Management ◽  
Historical Development ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Generic Model ◽  
Strategy Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Strategy Process ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Core Concepts ◽  
Level Of Analysis

Purpose Early works in strategic management described strategy process and were quickly followed by a plethora of strategy content articles focusing on tools, theories, frameworks and models for use in strategizing. Subsequently, strategy research and pedagogy diverged along these lines and the two streams have not been satisfactorily reconciled. As the process incorporates content and content requires process, this paper seeks to answer the question; can some relational consistency and historical reconciliation be developed? The purpose of this paper is to propose a process/content interrelation and a generic model of strategizing. Design/methodology/approach The authors first identify the opportunity for this integration through the historical development of the two streams. The authors then review contemporary scholarly literature, strategic management textbooks and university syllabi to determine which elements of the strategy process and content are most frequently promulgated. Findings The authors discover a generally ubiquitous core of concepts, but great inconsistency in how they are emphasized, linked and/or applied. Beyond these core concepts, faculty syllabi included a wide range of more idiosyncratic content (appearing very infrequently – possibly related to instructor research or interest areas), such as blue ocean or game theory. The authors then propose a 2 × 2 matrix with axes of the level of analysis and stage of activity. The authors provide a populated matrix and discuss the implications of this matrix for future scholarship and teaching. Originality/value This paper begins a process of integrating the historical divide between strategy process and strategy content. It provides insights for classroom faculty, historians and practitioners.

Backcasting as a strategic management tool for meeting VUCA challenges

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 298-312 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kent Thorén ◽  
Martin Vendel
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Management ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Strategy Formation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Major Transitions ◽  
Strategy Process ◽  
Feasible Path ◽  
Core Idea ◽  
Interactive Workshop

Purpose Backcasting helps managers involve and align the organization throughout a strategy process. Its core idea is creating a logical path from a depicted future back to the present, to share, analyze and manage strategic challenges. Still its use in strategic management is under-researched. The purpose of this paper is to verify the relevance and validity of backcasting as a strategic management tool. It also analyzes and structures knowledge about backcasting and its practical application in strategic management. Design/methodology/approach This paper employs desktop research method to outline the benefits and limitations of backcasting for strategy formation under VUCA conditions. Findings Backcasting can help organizations overcome cognitive barriers and broaden the scope of options when analyzing future positions. The research provides insights regarding the potential and limitations of backcasting when addressing uncertainty and its drivers. For instance, it helps managers to assess and align visions; increase the understanding and clarity regarding complex dependencies; as well as improve strategic agility. Practical implications Backcasting is exceptionally useful for investigating possible futures and alternative paths to it. Backcasting is an interactive workshop-based method that challenges prevailing mindsets by assuming we are in the future, looking back towards today to find a feasible path when major transitions are necessary. With it, managers can deal with even the most uncertain decisions in a structured manner. Originality/value Backcasting for many reasons has a great potential as a tool for strategy development. It has been successfully applied in other fields but only to a limited extent in business. This paper formally examines its applicability in this context and demonstrates its relevance for dealing with VUCA challenges.

scholarly journals New experiences in nature areas: architecture as a tool to stimulate transformative experiences among visitors in nature areas?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ben Wielenga
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Transformative Experiences ◽  
Wide Range

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to share architecture as a tool that is increasingly implemented in nature areas and its potential for stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism. Design/methodology/approach Based on three examples of architecture in nature, the value of architecture to nature-based tourism is presented. Findings It was found that architecture in nature has a wide range of benefits for nature-based tourism and may form a catalyst for gaining transformative experiences in the examples presented. Originality/value The findings presented in this paper touch upon a new way of stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism by implementing architecture.

Woodworking marking tool structuration based on craft traditions

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ilze Gūtmane ◽  
Silvija Kukle ◽  
Inga Zotova ◽  
Artūrs Ķīsis
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Wood Product ◽  
Baltic Region ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Data Object ◽  
Hand Tool ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Product Creation ◽  
Information Materials ◽  
The Baltic

PurposeBased on profound information lacking in compiled information materials, the risks of losing knowledge related to the values of traditional woodworking processes are increasing. The purpose of this article is to collect and structure diverse marking tool data into a comprehensive, understandable and clear design schematic view, which serves as a basis for the accumulation and preservation of diverse marking objects and shows woodworking marking tool relation in the group and subgroup levels.Design/methodology/approachA method for marking tools structuring and analysis are described, including breaking down a set of objects into groups of marking objects, and assigning one or more attributes to the parcelled objects by arranging them into hierarchic levels. Research is based on marking tools used by carpenters, joiners and woodcarvers mainly in the Baltic region.FindingsCollected data, object analyses and comparison within-group and subgroup levels are based on written and visual sources, museum and museum funds visits, and participation in the local craftsmen events. The created structure is expandable in group and subgroup levels. The most comprehensive way for object structuring is chosen as a base to reveal a diversity of the objects.Originality/valueStructure schemes of woodworking marking tools are important in scientific, educative and cultural levels based on their wide range and use. Aggregated information of the woodworking tools serves as a base for existing tool studies and improvement, new tool and wood product creation as well as complements the structure of the upcoming woodworking hand tool database and book.

Multi-jet ice 3D printing

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Pushkar Prakash Kamble ◽  
Subodh Chavan ◽  
Rajendra Hodgir ◽  
Gopal Gote ◽  
K.P. Karunakaran
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Good Accuracy ◽  
Microfluidic Channel ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Water Ice ◽  
Volumetric Expansion ◽  
Low Viscosity ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Water Layers ◽  
Potential Applications

Purpose Multi-jet deposition of the materials is a matured technology used for graphic printing and 3 D printing for a wide range of materials. The multi-jet technology is fine-tuned for liquids with a specific range of viscosity and surface tension. However, the use of multi-jet for low viscosity fluids like water is not very popular. This paper aims to demonstrate the technique, particularly for the water-ice 3 D printing. 3 D printed ice parts can be used as patterns for investment casting, templates for microfluidic channel fabrication, support material for polymer 3 D printing, etc. Design/methodology/approach Multi-jet ice 3 D printing is a novel technique for producing ice parts by selective deposition and freezing water layers. The paper confers the design, embodiment and integration of various subsystems of multi-jet ice 3 D printer. The outcomes of the machine trials are reported as case studies with elaborate details. Findings The prismatic geometries are realized by ice 3 D printing. The accuracy of 0.1 mm is found in the build direction. The part height tends to increase due to volumetric expansion during the phase change. Originality/value The present paper gives a novel architecture of the ice 3 D printer that produces the ice parts with good accuracy. The potential applications of the process are deliberated in this paper.

Managing COVID-19 in workplaces – a theoretical framework for integral employees’ health

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sandra Gauer ◽  
Barbara Germann
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Psychological Stress ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Job Demands ◽  
Theoretical Framework ◽  
Theoretical Base ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Stress Theory ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Strategic Measures

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework on how to deal with stressors emerging from the COVID-19 outbreak. The theoretical framework aims to explain pandemic-related stressors and potential ways to prevent them, considering a wide range of interacting factors at individual, team and organizational levels to ensure their employees’ health. Design/methodology/approach The authors drew on an integrative literature review to identify pandemic-related stressors influenceable by the organization and gathered solution approaches to counteract them. Popular psychological stress theories served as a theoretical base for the framework. Findings The authors based the framework on an integration of the transactional stress theory (Lazarus and Folkman, 1984) and the job demands resources model (Schaufeli and Bakker, 2004), focusing on their respective theoretical strengths. The final framework offers a solid orientation for scholars regarding the introduction of holistic and strategic measures in coping with pandemic-related stressors. A section describing possibilities for practitioners’ use of the framework has been integrated. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to offer a framework on how to handle COVID-19-related stressors in the workplace by implementing teamwide and companywide measures.

scholarly journals Mapping post-diagnostic dementia care in England: an e-survey

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rachael Frost ◽  
Kate Walters ◽  
Jane Wilcock ◽  
Louise Robinson ◽  
Karen Harrison Dening ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Dementia Care ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Mailing Lists ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Survey Responses ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Pathways Of Care

PurposePost-diagnostic dementia care is often fragmented in the United Kingdom, with great variation in provision. Recent policies suggest moving towards better community-based care for dementia; however, little is known on how this care is delivered. This study aimed to map the post-diagnostic dementia support provided in England a decade after the introduction of a National Dementia Strategy.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods e-survey (open Nov 2018–Mar 2019) of dementia commissioners in England recruited through mailing lists of relevant organisations was conducted. The authors descriptively summarised quantitative data and carried out thematic analysis of open-ended survey responses.Findings52 completed responses were received, which covered 82 commissioning bodies, with representation from each region in England. Respondents reported great variation in the types of services provided. Information, caregiver assessments and dementia navigation were commonly reported and usually delivered by the voluntary sector or local authorities. Integrated pathways of care were seen as important to avoid overlap or gaps in service coverage. Despite an increasingly diverse population, few areas reported providing dementia health services specifically for BME populations. Over half of providers planned to change services further within five years.Practical implicationsThere is a need for greater availability of and consistency in services in post-diagnostic dementia care across England.Originality/valuePost-diagnostic dementia care remains fragmented and provided by a wide range of providers in England.

scholarly journals Strategies for transcending the chaos of societal disruptions

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 5-14
Author(s):  
John C. Camillus ◽  
Jeffrey E. Baker ◽  
Anushka I. Daunt ◽  
Jungyoon Jang
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Management Practice ◽  
Social Implications ◽  
Societal Change ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Real Options Approach ◽  
Management Processes ◽  
The Social ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This study aims to offer a strategic management response to societal disruptions of the magnitude triggered by the agricultural, industrial and information revolutions. These pose challenges that are much greater and different in kind than the industry-wide disruptions that businesses have learned to manage. Pandemics, climate change, biotech and artificial intelligence guarantee that such societal disruptions will be an inescapable and recurring reality. Design/methodology/approach The paper builds on the strategic management responses to wicked problems, which possess in microcosm the chaotic ambiguity that characterizes societal disruptions. Findings The authors propose a management process that affirms a sense of identity, identifies robust actions, adopts a real-options approach and uses a platform organization. Research limitations/implications The primary limitation is that the recommendations and findings are extrapolations of organizational practices in analogous situations. No examples of formal management processes specifically designed to address societal disruptions were identified. Practical implications The practical implications are significant. The specific recommendations in the paper directly address strategic management practice in organizations. Social implications The social implications are integral to the motivation of the paper as it describes the intrinsic characteristics of societal change and transformation, enabling organizations to interact with society on a dynamic basis. Originality/value While there has been growing interest and research into business and industry disruptions, the challenge of societal disruptions, which is the focus of this paper, has not been directly addressed.

scholarly journals A biopsychosocial framework for recovery from COVID-19

2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 1021-1039
Author(s):  
Kaz Stuart ◽  
Mark A. Faghy ◽  
Elaine Bidmead ◽  
Ruth Browning ◽  
Catriona Roberts ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Living Arrangements ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Narrow Range ◽  
Analytical Framework ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Social Media Platforms ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThis paper proposes a biopsychosocial (BPS) analysis of COVID-19 experiences which enhances understanding of complex and interrelated factors and leads to the proposition of a BPS recovery framework.Design/methodology/approachOnline narrative research was used to explore people's experiences of COVID-19 and was conducted over a four-month period. The call was distributed via a short open-ended qualitative online survey advertised on social media platforms and 305 responses came from across England.FindingsThe findings illustrate people with a narrow range of BPS characteristics experienced over a wide range of BPS impacts which are nuanced, complex and dynamic. Left unaddressed these may create future adverse BPS characteristics. An integrated BPS framework for recovery is proposed to avoid such further negative outcomes from the pandemic.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample contained a bias in age, gender and living arrangements.Practical implicationsThe paper offers a clear framework to enable integrated holistic recovery/regrowth planning.Social implicationsUsing the framework would reduce social and health inequities which have been recently deepened by COVID-19 in the long-term.Originality/valueThe paper is original in its use of a BPS analytical framework.

Lasers sensors very accurately measure both speed and length in real time

Sensor Review ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 34 (1) ◽  
pp. 9-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard Bloss
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Laser Measurement ◽  
Quality Cost ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Laser Sensors ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Length Measurements ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Insight Into

Purpose – Review of the advancements in non-contact laser sensors for much more accurate real time speed as well as length measurements. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – In-depth review of a number of applications of laser sensors. Findings – A wide range of manufacturers in the converting industries have solved measurement problems and realized major improvements in product quality, cost of production and productivity by applying laser measurement as well as reduction in scrap. Practical implications – Others with the need to make very accurate measurements of speed and length in real time may find that laser sensors may provide the answer. Originality/value – An expert insight into how to solve real time speed and length measurement problems.

Synthesis and characterisation of heatproof polyester polyols used in polyurethane adhesive

2016 ◽  
Vol 45 (6) ◽  
pp. 439-443 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tingting Xu ◽  
Cuifeng Zhang ◽  
Lijun Chen
Keyword(s):  
Heat Resistance ◽  
Benzene Ring ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Raw Materials ◽  
Sebacic Acid ◽  
Vacuum Melting ◽  
Polyurethane Adhesive ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Polyurethane Adhesives

Purpose Presently, a wide range of polyurethane adhesives can be obtained using different kinds of polyols and isocyanates. However, the applied temperature of the polyurethane adhesive is not more than 80°C. The film of polyurethane adhesive will be softened and deformed when its applied temperature is more than 100°C. Thus, the mechanical property of the polyurethane adhesive is decreased clearly, which limits its further application. The purpose of the study is to improve the heat resistance of polyols, especially polyester polyols and its resultant polyurethane adhesives. Design/methodology/approach The more rigid benzene ring is introduced into the polyester polyols to improve the heat resistance of its resultant polyurethane adhesive. Findings The more rigid benzene ring has ben introduced into the polyester polyols and the heat resistance of its resultant polyurethane adhesive is improved. Originality/value The polyester polyols with more rigid benzene ring have been prepared successfully by the vacuum melting method when diethylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, 1,6-hexanediol, ethanediol, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, sebacic acid and adipic acid are used as raw materials and tetra-isopropyl titanate is adopted as the catalyst.

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