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The Kano Model is a well-researched approach to rating the attributes of products and services. However, much of the research available consists of research conducted to identify attributes for products and services and evaluations of the Kano Model with other approaches. This paper seeks to study the analysis of Kano Model results. This paper uses a case study of the analysis of Kano Model survey results from a survey conducted only to gather data for the analysis. The data was analysed using a spreadsheet with formulas to perform the necessary calculations. Attributes were rated using Kano Model criteria. Several results were tied and an attribute was rated as indifferent, even though many respondents viewed the attribute as must-be or attractive, indicating a need to refine Kano Model evaluation criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For students and novice researchers, the choice of qualitative approach and subsequent alignment among problems, research questions, data collection, and data analysis can be particularly tricky. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to provide a concise explanation of four common qualitative approaches, case study, ethnography, narrative, and phenomenology, demonstrating how each approach is linked to specific types of data collection and analysis. We first introduce a summary and key qualities of each approach. Then, using two common research contexts, we apply each approach to design a study, enabling comparisons among approaches and demonstrating the internal consistency within each approach. Given the nuance and complexity of qualitative research, this paper provides an accessible starting point from which novice researchers can begin their journey of learning about, designing, and conducting qualitative research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores car drivers' cruising behaviour and location choice for curb parking in areas with insufficient parking space based on a survey of car drivers in Beijing, China. Preliminary analysis of the data show that car drivers' cruising behaviour is closely related to their parking duration and parking location. A multinomial probit (MNP) model is used to analyse cruising behaviour and the results show that the closer to the destination car drivers are, the more likely they choose to park on the curb. The adjacent locations are the basis of car drivers' sequential parking decisions at different locations. The research results provide a better understanding of cruising behaviour for parking and recommendations for reducing cruising for parking. The provision of parking information can help regulate the parking demand distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Geological Strength Index (GSI) is an important parameter for estimating rock mass properties and can be estimated either through direct observations or by using a quantitative GSI chart or equations. This study aims to discuss the applicability of the RMR89 method and the latest version of GSI|2013 by applying them to a case study and to the data published in the earlier papers. The relevant rock mass properties, including blockiness and discontinuity conditions, of the walls of 15 exploratory adits with a total length longer than 1100 m in a hydropower project in China have been assessed to provide data for the analysis. In addition, a repeat analysis of the earlier published data has been conducted to validate the results derived from the case study. The results show that the GSI values calculated with the RMR89 are generally larger than those obtained from the qualitative GSI chart, with an average magnitude of about five. The GSI values predicted from the values of JCond89 and RQD are consistent with those derived through the qualitative observational method for a medium-quality rock mass but are relatively smaller or larger for a poor-quality (i.e., GSI<45) or a high-quality (i.e. GSI>65) rock mass, respectively. By comparing the results of the RMR89 method and the qualitative GSI chart method and analyzing the classification factors considered by the two methods, two new equations based on the RMR89 system have been developed for estimating the GSI. Their application to the case study and the published data prove that these two equations have higher predictive accuracy than the original RMR89 method and the latest version of GSI|2013. It is expected that the acquisition of more engineering examples will enable the two formulas to be further verified and improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the large amount of energy-rich organic compound, shale gas reservoirs can be good sources of hydrogen energy. To ensure high yield of hydrogen energy, the production data analysis in those shale gas reservoirs is of great significance. However, due to geological and engineering factors, there exist complex mechanisms including stress-sensitivity effect of permeability, gas desorption, complex gas flows, multiple finite-conductivity fractures, and wellbore hydraulics. Unfortunately, little work has been done to focus on these complex mechanisms simultaneously. To comprehensively address this issue, this paper presents a comprehensive model by using a semi-analytical method, and those complex mechanisms are all considered by introducing adsorption index, Knudson diffusion coefficient, reservoir-wellbore constant, and Reynolds number. Both model verification and field application are performed. This study further narrows the gap between theory and practice of production data analysis in shale gas reservoirs, which helps to parameter evaluation, performance forecast, and productivity enhancement in the unconventional reservoirs of hydrocarbons. • Shale gas (SG) reservoirs can be good sources of hydrogen energy. • Little work has been done on complex mechanisms simultaneously for SG production. • A comprehensive model is proposed for PDA in SG reservoirs with complex mechanisms. • Adsorption, Knudson diffusion, reservoir-wellbore constant, and Reynolds number. • Providing guidelines for parameter evaluation and production forecast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bus fleet performance and efficiency evaluation is one of the issues that have attracted the attention of policy makers and urban managers, who seek to improve the service level for their citizens. In this paper, a hybrid framework is proposed using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method and data mining techniques to conduct a window analysis for performance evaluation, using the bus fleet in Tehran as a case study. First, the DEA model for the efficiency evaluation of the bus fleet is implemented. To this end, a window analysis is carried out to compare bus fleet performance with the performance of other bus fleets and its own performance for various time periods. The results from the DEA window analysis are then used as the input to the data mining classification method to forecast the efficiency of the bus fleet. Several classification techniques are employed and various methods are used to identify the best algorithm. In this regard, the C5.0 algorithm outperforms the others, and finally the rules hidden in the data set are extracted to forecast the bus fleet efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an exemplary case in the car industry: the design of the new MINI Cooper, released in 2001. Through a semi-structured interview with design expert Frank Stephenson and the use of secondary data, we examine how an expert designer considers time to design a car relevant across decades. We find that the framing of the new MINI Cooper integrates both timely and timeless aspects. In the process, Frank Stephenson draws values, frames and working principles from the present portfolio and competing products to create a succession of product generation. We use this case to argue for the centrality of framing time when striving to create seminal, long-lasting designs. The study identifies 'the framing of time' as a main expertise in the car industry. Therefore, this paper answers scholars' calls for more research on how outstanding designers work to consider time (Cross, 2004). • The framing of time is a critical skill for expert automotive designers. • The key steps for framing the design of the new MINI Cooper are analysed. • Timeless designs are anchored in the aspired values and the framing. • Timely designs are based on working principles that respond to the context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nominal group technique (NGT) is a method to elicit healthcare priorities. Yet, there is variability on how to conduct the NGT, and limited guidance on how to analyse a diverse sample of multiple groups. This paper addresses some of this ambiguity, and explores whether different approaches to analysis provide the same outcome/s. Conceptual papers and empirical studies were identified via PubMed and informed an adapted version of the NGT. Twenty-six nominal groups were conducted, which provided in-depth knowledge on how to best conduct this method. Pilot group data were used to compare different analysis methods and to explore how this impacted on reported outcomes. Data analyses for large data-sets are complex; thematic analysis is needed to be able to conduct across group comparisons of participant priorities. Consideration should be given not just to the strength, i.e. sum of votes, or relative importance of the priority, but to the voting frequency, i.e. the popularity of the idea amongst participants; our case study demonstrated that this can affect priority rankings for those ideas with the same score. As a case study, this paper provides practical information on analysis for complex data sets. Researchers need to consider more than one analysis process to ensure that the results truly reflect participant priorities. A priority that has a high score may not necessarily reflect its popularity within the group; the voting frequency may also need to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The criticality of water-management and along with it, the necessity to analyse the associated data is becoming increasingly more apparent. One of the main consumers of water worldwide is industry, with specific sectors dominating the profile in different regions. The true value of the water utilised encompasses all the costs incurred including extraction, treatment, pumping, storage, purification and disposal. Knowledge of the costs incurred allows suitable management. However the true cost or true value of the water being used is not known. In order to address this and improve environmental systems, a novel framework for establishing the true value of water was developed and its application to a specific water system in a case-study manufacturing facility is articulated in this paper. The framework may also be similarly applied to other water life-cycle stages and indeed to other water systems within the facility. A Simulink model was created and monthly data over a three year period was analysed. It was determined that the true value of the deionised water was, on average, €13.20/m 3 . The Value Added Factor relevant to this system is 14.05, originating from a raw water supply cost of €0.94/m 3 . The total true expenditure on deionised water was €26,025 whereas the perceived expenditure was €1853. The primary constituent components of the true value were system maintenance (30%), equipment depreciation (19%) and energy consumption (18%). The methodology may be applied to other services and other industries thus providing typical value-added factors for a range of systems and this approach could then act as a tool for educating consumers and also assisting with the transition to more sustainable practices. Scenario analysis may be performed in order to evaluate and provide justification for proposed modifications, thus enabling benefits to water and energy consumption, waste reduction and also operational efficiencies. The results may also be used to contribute to water foot-printing, system/regulation compliance and facility benchmarking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Human reliability analysis (HRA) is generally viewed as quite an important part in probabilistic safety assessment (PSA). In this paper, a THERP+HCR HRA model is presented to model the operators’ post-accident behavior in Chinese nuclear power plants. The paper shows how the model is structured and how to consider and acquire the corresponding data, including HCR data modification and HRA event tree data. A case study is presented to make an illustration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Under incentivized contractual mechanisms such as availability-based contracts, the support service provider and its customer must share a common understanding of equipment reliability baselines. Emphasis is typically placed on the information technology-related solutions for capturing, processing and sharing vast amounts of data. In the case of repairable fielded items, scant attention is paid to the pitfalls within the modelling assumptions that are often endorsed uncritically and seldom made explicit during field reliability data analysis. This paper presents a case study in which good practices in reliability data analysis are identified and applied to real-world data with the aim of supporting the effective execution of a defence avionics availability-based contract. The work provides practical guidance on how to make a reasoned choice between available models and methods based on the intelligent exploration of the data available in practical industrial applications. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to exploit the incredible variety of JSON data sets currently available on the Internet, for example, on Open Data portals? The traditional approach would require getting them from the portals, then storing them into some JSON document store and integrating them within the document store. However, once data are integrated, the lack of a query language that provides flexible querying capabilities could prevent analysts from successfully completing their analysis. In this paper, we show how the J-CO Framework, a novel framework that we developed at the University of Bergamo (Italy) to manage large collections of JSON documents, is a unique and innovative tool that provides analysts with querying capabilities based on fuzzy sets over JSON data sets. Its query language, called J-CO-QL, is continuously evolving to increase potential applications; the most recent extensions give analysts the capability to retrieve data sets directly from web portals as well as constructs to apply fuzzy set theory to JSON documents and to provide analysts with the capability to perform imprecise queries on documents by means of flexible soft conditions. This paper presents a practical case study in which real data sets are retrieved, integrated and analyzed to effectively show the unique and innovative capabilities of the J-CO Framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most businesses view maintenance as tasks carried out by technicians and the data collected is mostly cost related. There is a growing trend towards outsourcing of maintenance and the data collection issues are not addressed properly in most maintenance service contracts. Effective maintenance management requires proper data management - data collection and analysis for decision-making. This requires a proper framework and when maintenance is outsourced it raises several issues and challenges. The paper develops a framework for data management when maintenance is outsourced and looks at a real case study that highlights the need for proper data management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to provide the basis for the Balanced Scorecard to be used as a strategic management and performance measurement tool. For this purpose, in this study it is determined that which dimensions would be used on the application of the Balanced Scorecard on the hospitals. This study has been designed as a case study, and has been carried out in a private hospital in Duzce. The research data is composed of primary and secondary data source. Primary data has been generated by the in-depth interviews with the middle managers of the hospital. These interviews were carried out using a semi-structured interview technique. Secondary data used in this study, was the work reports of the Hospital Service Quality Standards. Obtained data was analyzed by the content analysis. At the end of the study, the dimensions of the balanced scorecard for hospital, the relations between this dimensions and objectives that are in dimensions have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The school bus routing problem (SBRP) seeks to plan an efficient schedule of a fleet of school buses that must pick up students from various bus stops and deliver them by satisfying various constraints: maximum capacity of the bus, maximum riding time of students, time window to arrive to school. In this paper, we consider a case study of SBRP for a school in Bogotá, Colombia. The problem is solved using ant colony optimization (ACO). Computational experiments are performed using real data. Results lead to increased bus utilization and reduction in transportation times with on-time delivery to the school. The proposed decision-aid tool has shown its usefulness for actual decision-making at the school: it outperforms current routing by reducing the total distance traveled by 8.3 % and 21.4 % respectively in the morning and in the afternoon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The main objective of this exploratory paper is to investigate the relationships between green practices of supply chain management and supply chain performance. This relationship is investigated in the context of the automotive industry. Five research propositions are suggested and tested with empirical data derived from five case studies taken from the Portuguese automotive supply chain. The data analysis identifies the most important green practices considered by managers, as well as the performance measures that are most appropriate and most widely used as means to evaluate the influence of green practices on supply chain performance. A conceptual model was derived from the data analysis and it can be used to assess the influence of green practices on supply chain performance. This model provides evidence as to which green practices have positive effects on quality, customer satisfaction and efficiency. It also identifies the practices which have negative effects on supply chain performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: The aim of the study was to identify and describe two couples' approaches to changes in everyday life during the first year after a stroke. An additional aim was to describe how the couples viewed rehabilitation as well as their own personal training relative to changes in everyday life during the first year at home after stroke. Method: The study design was a prospective longitudinal case study based on two couples where one of the spouses in each couple had experienced a stroke. Data collection consisted of interviews and a questionnaire and took place in the participants' homes. Data analysis utilized a constant comparative method. Results: The findings showed a divergence in the couples' approaches to changes in their everyday life at home and were described through the following categorizations: engaging in occupations, getting experience and thereby feedback from doing, changing one's occupational needs and demands, contributing to a picture of a possible future and, integrating training in everyday life. Getting experience and feedback from doing was found to be a key category or ''driver'' in the change process. Conclusion: The couples' experiences of changes in everyday life after stroke illustrated two very divergent approaches, which is discussed in the paper. The approaches in turn had consequences for how daily life was spent after stroke which is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing from recent scholarship that examines schooling and the shifting terrain of youth identities, this study examines the identity constructions of Jessica, a Latina high school student. Our portrait of Jessica is part of a larger longitudinal study in which the middle and high school experiences of three Latinas, including Jessica, were examined. For this paper, we used data gathered from Jessica's four years in high school, which included interviews from Jessica and her mother, and field observations from shadowing Jessica's school days during her junior and senior years. Data analysis illustrated two broad themes: Jessica's relationships with her academics and her social life, including the recent positioning of herself as a mother during her pregnancy in her senior year. Findings suggest that Jessica improvised her positions within various realms of school to both resist and reconfigure discourses that shaped her identities as a student and adolescent. This study argues for more research that examines and explores what youth have to say about their school experiences in order to illustrate the complex ways in which adolescents author themselves in school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports another stage in the development of the Panel of Psychological Inquiry (the "Panel") model for evaluating case-study knowledge claims. Inspired by Bromley's (1986) quasi-judicial model of clinical case studies, the methodology for evaluating clinical case-studies involves seven components: (1) standards of evidence for anecdotal data; (2) participants (judges, advocate, critic, witnesses); (3) pre-hearing review of the written case study and specific advocate claims and critic counterclaims; (4) collecting physical evidence and interviewing potential witnesses related to the case; (5) a sixteen step hearing procedure; (6) the judges' opinion; and (7) appeal. This article begins with a rationale for and background on the Panel model, followed by an introduction to a specific pilot test of it. In the pilot text, a five-member Panel consisting of senior practitioners and academics conducted a five-hour hearing on the treatment of "Anna," an 18-year-old, first year college student with a six year history of anxiety, panic, depression, and persistent self-cutting, who was seen in therapy by a clinical psychology graduate student. The judges evaluated five knowledge claims about the severity of psychopathology; relationship of the symptom to defenses; therapeutic orientation; outcome; and role of counter-transference in the case. This introduction orients readers to five other papers associated with the pilot test: (a) a systematic case study of Anna's treatment (Podetz, 2008, 2011a), which was part of the "physical evidence" of the case and which constituted the author's master's thesis; (2) and (3), the arguments that the advocate and critic (Altman, 2011 and DiGiorgianni, 2011, respectively), presented to the Panel of Inquiry, as well as some comments about their roles and experiences (not discussed at the Inquiry); (4) the experience of the therapist (Podetz, 2011b) in presenting to the Panel of Inquiry; and (5) the findings of the Panel of Inquiry (Miller et al., 2011). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This paper is a report of an evaluation of the implementation of nurse prescribing in an acute care hospital in England. Background. At the time of the study, evaluation of nurse prescribing had taken place in community settings, but little was known about its impact and effectiveness in acute care. Although nurse prescribing has permitted doctor-nurse substitution in acute episodic care, some doctors have expressed concerns about patient safety in relation to nurse prescribing. Methods. A mixed methods single-case study was conducted in 2005-06, using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 18 hospital staff, non-participant observation of two nurses and two doctors undertaking 52 patient-prescriber consultations with 47 patients, and a questionnaire survey with 122 patients (response rate 61%: n = 74). Results. Nurse prescribing was found to benefit patients through service delivery improvement and using staff skills differently. Nurse prescribers and their colleagues were positive about role and service changes and their impact on patient care. No differences were found between the ways in which nurses and doctors performed prescribing roles, but there was a statistically significant difference between the medication-related information satisfaction ratings of patients who had seen a nurse prescriber, compared to those seen by a doctor. Conclusion. Nurses and doctors were found to provide equivalent care. Shared vision, local champions, action learning and peer support were the enabling factors that helped to embed the new prescribing roles within the study site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In December 2008, an intense avalanche cycle occurred in the eastern part of the southern French Alps. Southerly atmospheric fluxes that progressively evolved into an easterly return caused important snowfalls with return periods up to 10years. Cold temperatures and drifting snow had important aggravating effects. The return period for the number of avalanches was above 50years in two massifs and some of the avalanche had very long runouts that exceeded historical limits recorded in the French avalanche atlas. Using this case study, this paper illustrates and discusses how avalanche reports, snow and weather data and results from numerical modelling of the snow cover can be combined to analyse abnormal temporal clusters of snow avalanches. For instance, it is shown how statistical techniques developed in other fields can be used to test the significance of different explanatory factors, extract spatio-temporal patterns, compare them with previous cycles and quantify the magnitude/frequency relationship at different scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As noted by several authors, field research has a craft-like element that makes it difficult for researchers to textualize the process of analyzing data. However, discussing our practices in field research could lead to the emergence of a more critical and self-reflective craft. With this objective, the author discusses the process of interpreting qualitative data from a 5-year longitudinal study on management accounting change in an Asian multinational company. The paper also includes a discussion of the institutional theories underpinning this research, which are used in the explanation of the data. Hence, this article elucidates the journey of moving from the "tape," or the data, to the final written text. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]