Emerald | Benchmarking: An International Journal | Table of Contents

Comparative evaluation of Indian technical institutions using distance based approach method

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - Due to liberalization, privatization and globalization, the need of competent technical manpower at an economical cost is increasing rapidly. Many foreign multinationals are focusing on India for employable talents. Many technical institutions with cutting edge technologies and leading edge techniques are being set up by foreign collaboration, national and private initiatives. The objective of this study is to propose a model for performance evaluation and benchmarking of Indian technical institutions from perspective of all stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach - For the proposed framework, a multiple criteria decision making tool, distance based approach (DBA) methodology is applied for performance evaluation of seven Indian technical institutions taking into account some selected criteria like, faculty strength (FS), student intake (SI), number of Ph.D awarded (Ph.D), number of patents applied for (Patent), the campus area in acres (CA) and tuition fee per semester in rupees (TF). Consulting the experts in various fields with the help of certain questionnaire and aggregating their views by conducting ameliorated nominal group technique session, we select these evaluation criteria. The subjective weights of the criteria are determined using analytic hierarchy process (AHP). For the analysis, the required data are collected from annual report published by Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD) for the year of 2007-08.Findings - In this paper, we have chosen seven centrally funded technical institutions for study and the institutions are coded as A, B, C, D, E, F and G. The result of the study reveals that A is the best and F is the worst. The ranking we get is in the order of A B E C G D F. From the result it is understood that A can be considered as benchmark for B, C and E (which form the second group) and this second group can be considered as an improvement target for the rest. At the end a holistic technical education system model (HTESM) is proposed.Originality/value - This paper is one of the few studies that evaluate the performance of technical institutions in India. The novelty in the approach is that DBA and AHP are being used as a benchmarking technique in a simple methodology which is generic in nature.

Time-Based Competition: Relation to Multiculturalism and Logistics in International Furniture Companies

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The strategic aim of this paper is to investigate whether time-based competition (TBC) strategies are related to cultural aspects. In addition, the influences of company decision-making and the success of competitive strategies in diverse globalised markets will be examined. Based on a multicultural perspective, the way time is considered depends on different assumptions among countries and cultures, as well as organisational patterns of decision-making for a variety of business areas and services. TBC and its relationship to logistics and multiculturalism through the international benchmarking of furniture companies are then explored. Design/methodology/approach - Time-based competition and cultural perceptions were studied in furniture manufacturing companies located in Brazil and Scandinavia. Data were collected from furniture companies by questionnaires and were analysed through descriptive statistics and multivariate techniques. The research presented here is part of a larger study that focuses on TBC strategies and multiculturalism in the furniture industry.Findings - Data were collected from furniture companies located in different countries. The findings show that there is a correlation between TBC strategies and cultural variables, and TBC and seeking for local partnerships. Originality/value - The originality of the paper lies in addressing relationships between TBC strategies, cultural aspects and the role of partnerships to improve logistics management competitiveness. To date, this area has received little attention in the literature. Likewise, the results point to partnerships being necessary to improve TBC and logistics strategies.

Classifying Greek Banks based on Bank Ranking Index (BRI)

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Maria Mavri) — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - In the situation of financial crisis, the Performance of banking and financial institutions is considered to be important for a country’s economy. This paper develops an Index, called the "Bank Ranking Index" (BRI), which classifies banks in a descending order.Design/methodology/approach - This study proposes the "Bank Ranking Index" (BRI), which is based on a set of quantitative indicators representing, the financial market, the bank’s financial identity and its infrastructure and classifies banks in a descending order. Cluster analysis is also used in order to compare the results of the above classificationFindings - The index is implied in a representative sample of sixteen Greek banks. The results indicate that through the proposed approach the banks can improve their efficiency and their overall performance in order to satisfy customers’ needs in a more efficient wayPractical implications - We are seeking the proposed Index as a benchmarking tool, which could be valuable to the bank’s management team in order to plan and configure its strategy of development. Originality/value - In this paper based on banks’ characteristics and on financial data we introduce a simple Index, the BRI, based on which we assess the performance of a bank institution.

TRIZ Application in Marketing Model to Solve Operational Problems for Taiwanese Aquatic Products with Food Traceability Systems

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The research principle is to analyze and investigate analyzed the core operational problems of aquatic products with food traceability system and their performance in the Taiwanese market and to develop the marketing strategies to solve these core operational problemsDesign/methodology/approach - Based on all of the core operational problems derived from the literature, we interviewed distributors and aquatic product producers and collected their ideas to resolve the above problems. Then, we apply the TRIZ theory to find the improving and worsening parameters for those issues, based on which we can develop strategies to improve the marketing model of aquatic products with food traceability systems to solve operational problemsFindings - The findings of the study are of three fold: 1. Identified 7 core problems of aquatic products with food traceability systems, 2. Indentified 7 strategies for improving marketing model to solve operational problems of aquatic products with food traceability systems and developed the new marketing model to solve operational problems for aquatic products with food traceability systemsPractical implications - Promoting the food traceability certification comprehensively cannot only improve the food safety in Taiwan but also improve the competitiveness of Taiwanese industries as well as help to expand to the international marketOriginality/value - The contribution of this study lies in extending the body of knowledge of application of TRIZ methodology in marketing model for Aquatic Products with Food Traceability Systems. The findings of our study can be used as a reference for aquaculture products with traceability systems in other countries, as food safety is a globally growing trend

Exploring the relationship between efficiency and profitability

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This paper aims to identify the relationship between efficiency and profitability by using data from Greek meat processing companies over the period 1994-2007.Design/methodology/approach - The relationship of efficiency and profitability is studied, by applying a new performance decomposition model. This method is capable of making valid and consistent inferences about the performance of a two-stage production system, as well as the main sources of inefficiencies within a company. Findings - A poor performance over the study period is observed in the sample companies. The low performance is mainly due to the low profitability. The results do not confirm the existence of a positive strong correlation between efficiency and profitability. The companies that have the capability of producing their products with the best practices are not always capable of generating the maximum profits.Practical implications - The need for the improvement of performance has two aspects: first, it is a demand for the effective use of resources, and simultaneously, it is an urgent requirement for the generation of profits. According to the study findings, the long-term survival of firms in our sample seems to require adopting mainly profitability-enhancing strategies. Originality/value - This paper provides one of the first evaluations of performance focusing on efficiency and profitability, by applying an innovative performance decomposition approach. This work can be used as guidance for Greek as well as for worldwide meat-processing industries.

BENCHMARKING THE STATE OF HUMANITARIAN AID AND DISASTER RELIEF: A SYSTEMS DESIGN PERSPECTIVE AND RESEARCH AGENDA

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Amydee M Fawcett, Stanley Edward Fawcett) — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - A review of relief-and-recovery glitches related to natural disasters revealed four main issues that hinder the effectiveness of relief efforts. A common theme across these issues is a need for a more holistic systems design to provide better coordination within Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR). This paper addresses this issue.Design/methodology/approach - This is a conceptual paper using systems design theory to frame the extant literature and delineate the challenges and opportunities in HADR with respect to environment, processes, and goals. With the focus on systems design, we use fundamental principles of systems thinking to identify core issues and questions that require the attention of future research. Findings - HADR supply chains are made up of a complex set of players. By answering the questions we have proposed using systems thinking, these organizations can be motivated to coordinate efforts in the HADR supply chain to create a more cohesive response effort.Research limitations/implications - Progress is needed to transition from temporary to synchronized, "borderless" HADR supply chain networks. The result would be that HADR supply chains would more effectively reduce suffering and operate at lower total costs—two goals that are worth pursuing.Originality/value - This paper is written in response to Richey’s (2009) call for a more theoretical base in HADR research. Addressing the proposed research questions introduced in this paper will increase HADR system transparency, allowing us to better evaluate theoretically the governance and synchronization mechanisms required to enhance collaboration and improve HADR effectiveness.

TQM implementation in developing countries: A case study of the Libyan Industrial Sector.

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Fuzi Meftah Abusa, Peter Gibson) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This paper investigates the extent of Total Quality Management (TQM) Implementation in Libyan Manufacturing Companies (LMCs), and evaluates the impact of ISO9000, and company size on its implementation.Design/methodology/approach - A framework, comprised of six TQM elements is proposed. Data was collected by means of a survey questionnaire distributed to those companies which agreed to participate.Findings - The results are the responses of a comprehensive survey which showed that Libyan companies are still struggling to effectively embark on TQM. The correlations among the six investigated TQM elements were positive and significant. This study also investigated whether the level of TQM implementation is influenced by contextual factors, including company size and ISO 9000 Certification. It was found that there were no differences between TQM elements across ISO-certified and non-ISO certified companies. The findings also revealed that there is no significant difference between Small and Medium (S&M)-sized companies (on each of the TQM elements) and those of Large companies.Research limitations/implications - A longitudinal and wider research is required to investigate TQM implementation across private manufacturing and other companies.Originality/value - This analytical study is the first to determine the degree to which TQM has been adopted in the Libyan Industrial Sector (LIS). The results will contribute to the literature by examining the relationship between the proposed TQM elements, and investigating the impact of contextual factors (ISO 9000, company size) on each element of TQM. This research should prove valuable for the Libyan government in its stated efforts to motivate companies to embark on a TQM program and improve their business performance which, in turn, will improve the Libyan economy.