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Featured Application: This work bridges the gap between theory and practice by rapidly implementing smart manufacturing application in industry using a systematic roadmap. It shows actual business benefits and impacts to drive and accelerate industry 4.0 adoption in the manufacturing industry, especially for SMEs. Industry 4.0 presents an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage through productivity, flexibility, and speed. It also empowers the manufacturing sector to drive the sustainability revolution to achieve net zero carbon by reducing emissions in operations. In this paper, the aim is to demonstrate a practical implementation of a smart manufacturing application using a systematic approach based on conceptual six-gear smart factory roadmap with connectivity, integration and analytics stages to build a smart production management ecosystem using off-the-shelf technologies applied in precision manufacturing. Business benefits from the smart manufacturing application implementation are realized in terms of operational performance, economic benefits, and environmental sustainability over a period of three years (before and after smart manufacturing). The productivity improves as a result of the 47% improvement made to the machines' utilization and the 53% reduction in the total downtime waste. Economic benefits are realized in terms of a cost saving of GBP 420 K that could cost the business and the returns of the financial investment made, which is recovered within a year. An environmental sustainability impact is realized by a reduction in the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 43%, mostly due to the reduction in the Scope 2 emissions in operations by 50%, which is significantly impacted by the reduction of energy consumption and better power consumption management. The significance of this work is the bridging of the gap between theory and practice by rapidly applying the six-gear smart factory roadmap to start, scale, and sustain the implementation of smart manufacturing applications in the manufacturing industry. This roadmap can serve as a strategic framework tool for smart manufacturing implementations. The technical architecture can serve as a guide for the practical implementation of smart manufacturing applications to reduce the complexity of development. This work also bridges the gap in academia and in industry by showcasing a real-world actual business benefits realized from smart manufacturing, as well as showcasing the practical implementations, limitations, and opportunities of smart manufacturing applications in the precision manufacturing industry, all of which reduce the internal barriers and challenges facing smart manufacturing and industry 4.0 adoption. The value realized in gaining a competitive advantage and driving environmental sustainability from smart manufacturing in this study can serve as a case study for academics and for industry business leaders, digital champions, and digital lighthouses to support value creation and to drive and accelerate smart manufacturing applications, digital transformation initiatives, and industry 4.0 adoption across the value chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better meet the safety requirements and economic benefits of mountainous high-speed railways, long and steep ramps are implemented to overcome elevation obstacles. In this paper, the impacts of speed reduction, operation safety risks, line transportation capacity, maintenance, and operation quality on long and steep ramps are comprehensively considered, and a design method for high-speed railways with long and steep ramps in tough mountainous areas is proposed. This method has also been applied in engineering practice. Considering factors such as the operational organization and quality of electric multiple units (EMUs), it is recommended that there be no restrictions on the ramp sections of EMUs with a design speed of 250 km/h , which makes up 15‰ or less of existing railways in China. The lengths of the ramp sections with slopes of 20‰, 25‰, and 30‰ should not exceed 17, 9, or 6 km, respectively. The ramp section of the EMU running line with a design speed of 350 km/h should be implemented in a way that ensures the relevant explanatory requirements are maintained according to the existing specifications. A practical verification of the comparison and selection of the line schemes of the Junlian to Zhaotong line section of the Chongqing–Kunming high-speed railway shows that the proposed design method can better meet the high-speed railway design needs for long ascending and descending grades in mountainous areas and provide theoretical support for the optimization and selection of line schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between green supply chain management and sustainability performance in a manufacturing context. Design/methodology/approach: A survey approach was adopted to collect data from 163 manufacturing organizations to test the research hypotheses. A structural equation modeling (SEM) using the technique of path analysis with bootstrapping is used to test the hypothesized relationships. Findings: The research findings provide supporting evidence for the importance of implementing green supply chain management (GSCM) as a holistic system that includes internal and external green practices. Besides, the findings highlight the direct effect of GSCM on environmental, social and operational performance. Finally, the findings provide supporting evidence that GSCM could only be translated into better economic returns through the improvement of environmental and operational performance. Research limitations/implications: The nature of the surveyed sample and the use of a single informant might limit the ability to generalize the research findings outside the research context. Practical implications: The research findings help managers understand that GSCM must be implemented as a holistic system and that the real benefits of its implementation extend beyond the mere environmental benefits to include operational, social as well as economic benefits. Originality/value: The paper's contribution to knowledge is twofold. First, the study identifies how GSCM is conceptualized and how its effect is translated into improved economic performance. Second, the research explains the contradicting findings in previous studies regarding the relationship between GSCM and economic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlighting the importance of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) for economic development and growth, and the appearance of their supply chain vulnerability due to the pandemic attack. Thus, the aim of this research is to propose a framework linking the supply chain management practices (SCMPs) of MSMEs to CRM objectives for the purpose of improving MSMEs' operational performance. This article conducted a systematic review of all available publications from two prominent databases (WoS and Scopus) through PRISMA guidelines to explore the relationship between variables upon which the theoretical framework will be identified. Followed by semi-structured interviews with MSMEs' eco-system stakeholders to validate the proposed framework using content analysis based on NVivo software. The findings revealed the relationship between SCMPs and CRM objectives through MSMEs' operational performance, and a set of indicators has been determined for each variable, upon which a theoretical framework has been developed. Moreover, content analysis for interviews validates the key determinants for SCMPs, operational performance, customer satisfaction, and loyalty for MSMEs, upon which a proposed framework has been developed. This research provides a framework that can be used by academics and practitioners to assess the impact of SCMPs on CRM objectives through improving MSMEs' operational performance and corrective action for MSMEs' procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of AIN Journal is the property of Arab Institute of Navigation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the operation of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with dead-ended anode (DEA), the cathode relative humidity affects the accumulation state of water and nitrogen on the anode side, which in turn seriously affects the cell's working performance. In order to investigate the mechanism of the cathode relative humidity on the PEMFC performance, numerical simulation and segmented in-situ measurement methods were used in this study. The results of the study showed that the lower cathode relative humidity causes insufficient water content in the PEMFC. This can further lead to localized dehydration of the membrane, which causes degradation of the DEA-PEMFC performance. Moreover, the higher cathode relative humidity increases the water content on the cathode side of the PEMFC. This not only increases the membrane permeability to nitrogen but also accelerates the water concentration back-diffusion process. The water and nitrogen that penetrate into the anode side can occupy the gas transport channel and hinder hydrogen transport, resulting in the insufficient localized gas supply in the DEA-PEMFC. This finally results in lower transient voltages and significantly shorter stabilized operation times. Therefore, reasonable control of cathode relative humidity is required to ensure long-term efficient and stable operation of the DEA-PEMFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Given the sudden increase in plant investments across the manufacturing sector due to recent disruptions in the global supply chain caused by the COVID pandemic, the Ukraine/Russian war, ocean piracy incidents, and others, there is a need to strategically align the investments decisions with the overall business strategy. This study aims to establish whether strategic alignment enhances the effect of plant investments on operational performance. Design/methodology/approach: Using the fifth version of the Global Manufacturing Research Group (GMRG V) dataset, we employ a structural equation model (SEM) to establish the moderating role of strategic alignment in plant investments-operational performance relationships. Findings: The results suggest that strategic alignment enhances the positive effect of plant investments on operational performance, especially in cost, delivery, flexibility, and innovation. However, we found partial support for the moderating role of strategic alignment on quality performance. Research limitations/implications: Although the study was based on the GMRG global dataset and numerous papers have been published using the same dataset, the use of a convenience sample on a select group of companies may limit the generalizability of the results. With the increase in new plant investments in computer chip manufacturing, electronics, and electrical in recent years, the findings could help corporate executives maximize the benefits of their investment decisions. Companies should ensure that their plant investment decisions are strategically aligned with their overall business strategy to achieve optimal outcomes. Practical implications: With the increase in new plant investments in computer chip manufacturing, electronics, and electrical in recent years, the findings could help corporate executives maximize the benefits of their investment decisions. Companies should ensure that their plant investment decisions are strategically aligned with their overall business strategy to achieve optimal outcomes. Originality/value: The study comprehensively demonstrates that the extent of improvement in operational performance depends on how closely plant investment decisions align with the overall company strategy. Manufacturers should align major investment decisions with competitive priorities driven by market requirements to enhance operational performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study analyzes the performance implications of adopting blockchain to support supply chain business processes. The technology holds as many promises as implementation challenges, so interest in its impact on operational performance has grown steadily over the last few years. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing on transaction cost economics and the contingency theory, we built a set of hypotheses. These were tested through a long-term event study and an ordinary least squares regression involving 130 adopters listed in North America. Findings: Compared with the control sample, adopters displayed significant abnormal performance in terms of labor productivity, operating cycle and profitability, whereas sales appeared unaffected. Firms in regulated settings and closer to the end customer showed more positive effects. Neither industry-level competition nor the early involvement of a project partner emerged as relevant contextual factors. Originality/value: This research presents the first extensive analysis of operational performance based on objective measures. In contrast to previous studies and theoretical predictions, the results indicate that blockchain adoption is not associated with sales improvement. This can be explained considering that secure data storage and sharing do not guarantee the factual credibility of recorded data, which needs to be proved to customers in alternative ways. Conversely, improvements in other operational performance dimensions confirm that blockchain can support inter-organizational transactions more efficiently. The results are relevant in times when, following hype, there are signs of disengagement with the technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient inventory management is crucial for various industries' operational performance and financial success. As market demands evolve and technological advancements progress, the complexity and importance of inventory management have increased, making it essential for maintaining a competitive advantage. This study aims to systematically review existing literature to understand the impact of inventory management practices on operational performance across different industries and contexts. Employing the PRISMA framework for systematic literature review, the Scopus database was the primary source for selecting relevant articles. The initial search yielded 791 results, refined through rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria, ultimately resulting in the thorough analysis of 12 critical articles. This review's findings highlight that advanced inventory management systems, such as deep reinforcement learning and real-time analytics, significantly enhance operational efficiency. These systems facilitate more effective information sharing and enable tailored inventory strategies, which improve supply chain performance. This improvement is particularly evident in sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing, where precise inventory control is critical. Furthermore, financial metrics like days inventory outstanding correlate positively with firm performance, underscoring the strategic importance of inventory management in achieving financial success. The study highlights the importance of advanced inventory management practices in enhancing operational efficiency and financial performance despite high setup costs, technological complexity, and data quality issues. This study synthesizes research on inventory management practices, offering insights for businesses to enhance operational performance and emphasizes the need for continuous innovation for competitiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the mediating role of supply chain resilience on the relationship between supplier relationship management and operational performance. The research utilized positivist philosophical assumptions and a quantitative research approach. The study used a sample of 179 food and beverages companies in Ghana to address the research objectives. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling. The findings of the study revealed that supplier relationship management positively impacts the operational performance of the food and beverages industry in Ghana. Additionally, the study found that supply chain resilience plays a significant role in enhancing the operational performance of firms within the food and beverages industry in Ghana. Finally, the analysis of the study concludes that supply chain resilience further plays a significant mediating role in increasing the impact of supplier relationship management and operational performance of the food and beverages industry. The study is significant because the findings would help expand existing literature on supplier relationship management, resilience, and operational performance, thereby offering valuable insights for theory, practice, and policy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on the foundations of Resource-based view theory, Resource dependence theory, and dynamic capabilities theory, we derived theoretical support for the proposition that companies can sustain their operational activities and organizational economic performance during conflict and political instability. The study presents a conceptual model designed to reduce offshore dependence and maintain operational organizational capabilities. The study applies a systematic literature review approach to synthesize existing theories and research on the topic of crisis management and its impact on organizational sustainability during a war-induced crisis. A literature review encompassed identification of the themes that was followed by conceptualizing the model, and development of the propositions. The search terms included "organizational operational performance," "sustained economic performance," "economic crisis," "crisis management", "war crisis" and "conflict crisis". Selection criteria for existing literature were based on relevance to the topic, quality of research, and theoretical contribution. Content analysis was performed to identify key themes and patterns referencing war, supply, sourcing capabilities, and sustainability. A detailed, systematic, and rigorous review of relevant literature, theories, and concepts in the field resulted in the identification of strategic activities for fostering cost-effective practices. Sustainable performance, by this account, can be achieved by assessing damage to supply chains and compensating for oil, gas, and energy flow vulnerabilities during crises. When pre-existing channels are cut off, resilient enterprises quickly use their human, infrastructural, and technological internal capabilities to rapidly obtain distinct auxiliary resources for production and manufacturing. By analyzing and synthesizing existing frameworks and concepts, we integrated current knowledge and recent developments on key variables. The research indicates that functional capabilities, such as continuous material flow, input diversification, environmental constraint management, and coordination among different organizational units, improve organizational sustainability. This will help to avoid bankruptcy when resources are scarce, and first-tier suppliers are located in conflict-affected countries. The paper identifies the drivers of resource availability, namely frequency in resource discovery, technological change in extraction methods, consumption, substitution, re-usage, and loss. Business capabilities explored in this paper are primarily stabilization-oriented and were chosen due to their potential for mitigating the consequences of resource scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of green strategic alignment (GSA) and top management green support (TMGS) on green operational performance (GOP) within the UAE's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, focusing on the mediating role of proactive environmental strategy (PES) and the moderating effect of green psychological perception (GPP). Employing a quantitative approach through surveys, data were collected from employees at various ICT companies within the UAE who are directly involved in operations that pertain to environmental strategies. This method ensures a comprehensive understanding from those who engage daily with the company's green policies. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, the research provides empirical evidence on how strategic orientations and management support contribute to environmental sustainability. The findings reveal that both GSA and TMGS positively influence PES, which in turn enhances GOP. Furthermore, GPP significantly strengthens the relationship between PES and GOP, offering deeper insights into the dynamics of strategic management and sustainability in the services industry. This research is pioneering within the region, introducing empirical data on the synergy between management support and PESs, and it highlights the significant enhancement of operational performance through these combined efforts. This not only supports the theoretical frameworks but also provides actionable insights for firms aiming to enhance their green initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the unconventional intersection designs, the median U-turn (MUT) intersection design has been confirmed to have the potential to improve intersection efficiency and produce lower vehicle delays, and it has been widely applied to many urban networks. Most existing studies have successfully evaluated the operational performance of MUT intersections by analyzing the overall traffic flow, particularly for intersection delay and capacity. However, the impact of the critical parameters and behavior of individual vehicles in MUT intersection operations has not been adequately studied. These limitations cannot provide a complete and objective evaluation of MUT intersections. Therefore, a comprehensive cellular automata model is proposed to simulate vehicle dynamic variations, considering road channelization information and vehicle random movements. This model will be compared to the VISSIM model to validate rationality by using field data, and it shows a good agreement between the simulation results of both models. In addition, sensitive experiments reveal that properly adjusting the elements, including the separation distance, the proportion of left-turn vehicles, and green phase percentage, can improve the operation of MUT intersections to varying degrees. By appropriately improving intersection features and conducting reasonable evaluations, the overall performance and sustainability of the MUT intersections in Xi'an city can be enhanced. Finally, this paper offers a valuable guideline for the evaluation and modeling strategies of MUT intersections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The view that dynamic capabilities theory can help explain how lean organizations improve has been put forward by scholars. However, there is still a lack of research on the matching relationship between the application of lean practice and the internal elements of enterprise organization from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. The purpose of this study is to validate the moderating effect of dynamic capabilities on the relationship between lean practices and operational performance. Design/methodology/approach: This study used the method of survey and empirical research to collect sample data from 263 enterprises in China. Through literature review, this study put forward the moderating hypotheses around dynamic capabilities, lean practices and operation performance and used the method of regression analysis to validate these hypotheses. Findings: The results showed that dynamic capabilities have a partially moderating effect on the application of lean practices. Specifically, dynamic capabilities have a significant moderating effect on the relationship between just-in-time, total quality management, total preventive maintenance and operational performance, while dynamic capabilities have no significant moderating effect on the relationship between human resource management and operational performance. Originality/value: The research conclusion complements and enriches the lean practices literature from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. Existing studies mainly focus on the moderating role of external environmental factors, while there is a lack of empirical research on the role of dynamic capabilities in lean practices literature. The research results will help enterprises further understand the matching relationship between lean practices and dynamic capabilities and then improve the success of lean practices application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness and impact of a digital office data tracking system in the performance and decision-making of the selected employees. While manual tracking systems remain functional, their drawbacks, including inefficiency and potential for errors, make them less desirable compared to the modern and convenient digital office tracking system. These reasons prompted the researcher to delve into the advantages and benefits this digital tracking system will provide the Department of Agrarian Reform. A survey research design was utilized to carry out this study. Findings indicate the majority of the fourteen (14) respondents were either satisfied or extremely satisfied with the current office data tracking system in place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the findings from an autonomous shuttle pilot program conducted at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte between June and December 2023 as part of the North Carolina Department of Transportation's Connected Autonomous Shuttle Supporting Innovation (CASSI) initiative. The shuttle completed 825 trips, transporting 565 passengers along a 2.2-mile mixed-traffic campus route. The study evaluates the shuttle's operational performance, reliability, and challenges using data from onboard sensors, system logs, and operator reports. Key analyses are divided into four areas: service reliability, which assesses autonomy disengagements caused by signal loss, technical issues, and environmental factors; service robustness, focusing on the shuttle's ability to maintain operations under adverse conditions; performance metrics, including average speed, autonomy percentage, and battery usage; and service usage, which examines the number of trips and passengers to gauge efficiency. Signal loss and battery-related issues were the primary causes of service interruptions, while environmental factors like weather and vegetation also affected shuttle performance. Recommendations include enhancing vehicle-to-infrastructure communication and optimizing battery management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aims to evaluate a range of financial performance indicators calculated through structural, operational, and HVI measures for public hospitals in the Turkish healthcare sector using various decision tree algorithms. Methodology: The study comprises threa phases. In the first phase, financial ratios were calculated from the hospitals' financial statements using the ratio analysis method. In the second phase, these ratios were used to calculate the HVI. In the third phase, the selected operational and financial indicators were analyzed with decision tree algorithms. The ID3, C4.5 and CART decision tree algorithms and AUC were used for predicting operational and financial indicators and performance assessment of decision trees.Findings: It has been observed that decision trees created using the ID3 algorithm exhibit higher performance compared to other algorithms (AUC = 0.93). According to the results of the study, the number of beds significantly predicts the operational and financial performance of public hospitals and can be explained by the hospital scale. In addition, a strong relationship was found between operational and financial performance indicators with training status.Originality: The study is original in demonstrating the effectiveness of the ID3 decision tree algorithm in predicting the performance of public hospitals.

Purpose: Environmental concerns, government action and activism have increased the bar for how businesses operate. The United Nations also suggested sustainable performance in their SDG-12 and SDG-13 to achieve sustainability by 2030. Therefore, this research aimed to examine environmental and operational performance in the manufacturing context and how institutional pressure and manufacturing supply chain collaboration affect performance. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 207 manufacturing firms using purposive sampling. The hypotheses were tested through a Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling approach with the help of IBM SPSS AMOS version 22.0. The study conducted an explanatory factor analysis and found two sub-constructs (higher-order) for "institutional pressure." Findings: The findings illustrated that environmental performance significantly mediates the relationship between manufacturing supply chain collaboration and operational performance. The manufacturing supply chain collaboration significantly directly and indirectly affected operational performance. Likewise, institutional pressure was a crucial construct for manufacturing supply chain collaboration. Originality/value: In earlier studies, the relationships of study variables were examined individually. However, this study validated all the relationships in an integrated model with one variable (institutional pressure) in higher order. The study is grounded in institutional and stakeholder theory and contributes to the literature on green measures. At the operational level, the research can assist managers in comprehending the function of various manufacturing supply chain players to assist the eco-friendly practices that help to achieve SDG-12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG-13 (Climate Action) by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of COVID-19 has a negative effect on the operational performance of tourism business. Thus, many tourism firms have stopped operating. Therefore, social networks and access to external support resources are crucial in overcoming the crisis. This study, which is grounded in social network theory, attempts to assess how managerial ties affect operational performance through the mediating function of resource access (RA). The study uses the structural equation modelling (SEM) methodology and includes 212 managers from Vietnamese tourism companies in its sample. The findings show a positive and significant relationship between business partner ties (BPT) and government agency ties (GAT) and operational performance (OP). The study also investigates RA's partial mediating function between GAT, BPT and OP. The results are practical for managers in building relationship networks to increase RA and improve OP. Finally, this study suggests certain limitations and outlines directions for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of liquidity ratios, solvency ratios, and ESG scores on the operational performance of companies in ASEAN, and examines the moderating role of the CEO's education level. Data was collected from non-financial companies in ASEAN for the period 2018-2022 using the Refinitiv Eikon database and other public sources. A deductive to inductive approach and panel data regression analysis techniques were employed for data analysis. The findings reveal a significant positive effect of liquidity and ESG on operational performance, while solvency does not have a significant impact. Additionally, the study shows that the CEO's education level significantly moderates the relationship between Liqudity, Solvency, and ESG scores on operational performance. This research contributes to a better understanding of the factors influencing the operational performance of companies in ASEAN and its implications for decision-making and sustainable practices. It highlights the important role of the CEO's education level in this context and extends existing knowledge by broadening the scope of independent variables and confirming previous findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to determine and analyze the simultaneous influence of supply chain management, innovation strategies, and total quality management on operational performance in clamp ring production at PT. Pramesta Baja Utama. The method used in this research is a quantitative descriptive method. Data processing was conducted using statistical analysis with a regression model aided by SPSS 26. The sampling method used was saturated sampling, where all members of the population were included as samples. In this study, the sample consisted of 100 employees as respondents. The tests conducted included instrument feasibility tests, classical assumption tests, partial T-tests, simultaneous F-tests, and determination coefficients. It was found that supply chain management had an influence on operational performance in clamp ring production at PT. Pramesta Baja Utama, but the effect was not significant. Based on various analyses and data processing conducted to explore the factors that contribute to improving operational performance, it can be concluded that supply chain management, innovation strategies, and total quality management have a positive and significant simultaneous impact on the operational performance of clamp ring production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) implementation on Operational Performance and Firm Value in the Agricultural Industry sector during the 2016-2022 period. The information about ERM is taken from the annual reports, management reports and annual corporate governance reports disseminated over seven years (2016-2022). The data on firm performance have been obtained through financial report and the Eikon Refinitiv database of LSEG. Through a quantitative approach and panel data with linear regression, this study found that ERM contributes significantly to improved operational performance and firm value (measured through, Return on Assets and Tobin's Q). These results show that the effective implementation of ERM can be an important strategy for improving the competitiveness and resilience of agricultural enterprises to the risks faced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between entrepreneur's gender and business performance has been studied in existing literature assuming that it is a straight-forward direct relationship. Instead, in this study we examine how gender affects business performance through the introduction of innovations. Our aim is to explore the differences between men-led and women-led businesses as regards the performance results they obtain from innovating. We use a sample of 1376 Spanish small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to analyse the effect of entrepreneur's gender on business performance considering the mediating effect of innovations, that is, the possibility that gender indirectly influences business performance by affecting the introduction of innovations. Using econometric techniques, we estimate discrete choice models to investigate the relationship amongst gender, innovations and performance. Our main results show that men-led SMEs are more likely to achieve superior performance from innovations, and particularly, from their higher propensity to implement process innovations, in comparison to women-led SMEs. One limitation of our study is that data is cross-sectional, so that caution is needed regarding the causal interpretation of results. We contribute to uncover the role of gender on SMEs performance and the need to incorporate a policy gender perspective when dealing with enhancing SMEs innovativeness and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to emphasize the importance of data accuracy within internal logistics systems and their extended influence on supply chains in automotive industry through 6-month multiple case studies conducted on 3 first tier original equipment manufacturers (OEM) based in Western Romania. The study investigates the most common causes of data inaccuracies among automotive suppliers and their approaches to reduce consequential supply chain issues and be more agile. Data collection and analysis revealed that main issues arise due to ordering quantities mismatching actual customer demand, a wide range of order lot sizes, lead times and delivery reliability concerns and the reluctance to shift away from mainstream cost-effectiveness and towards strategic added value thinking. These issues sourced significant other related operational challenges such as excessive inventory, short-term stockouts and subsequent express shipping services or product-related inconveniences (quality and capacity levels, contracted volumes and dedicated lines). The paper sources different logistics and supply chain strategies used by the 3 OEMs, their features and operational performance, as well as their overall effectiveness, which can be applied by other automotive industry suppliers to improve own results. Introducing more reliable real-time data collection tools and performance metrics has started hauling more focus towards solving these prevalent issues with some ongoing improvement projects showing up to 25% better results. For one of the 3 OEMs introducing a new warehouse management system has already sourced an overall quality increase (5 percentage points) due to a 60% higher utilization of its production equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firms benefit from being reliable and trustworthy towards their customers. In many countries, however, corruption spills over to supply chain relationship practices and weakens a firm's credibility towards its customers (CTC). In this study, we investigate the influence of corruption on the relationship between CTC and firm performance. Empirical analyses of manufacturing firms in multiple countries demonstrate that corruption diminishes the effect of CTC on firms' operational performance. Moreover, a country's information and communication technology (ICT) readiness can counteract the negative impact of corruption. Our study adds to the literature on supply chain relationship management by considering the influence of two institutional contingencies (i.e. corruption and ICT readiness) on the effectiveness of CTC as an important mechanism of supply chain governance. Our study complements the literature on transaction cost economics and urges managers to consider the two characteristics of their firms' institutional environments when managing relationships in their supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco‐innovation capability's enhancement of the operational competitiveness of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) remains under explored in emerging markets. Furthermore, limited evidence exists on the influence of ownership structure on eco‐innovation capability and operational performance. This study therefore examines the relationship between eco‐innovation capability, ownership structure and operational performance of ESCOs. Questionnaires are electronically distributed to Operations Managers of 287 ESCOs registered by the Energy Commission in Malaysia. To test the direct and moderating effects, Partial Least Square‐Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM) is applied on 136 valid responses. Results suggest Eco‐innovation Capability significantly enhances ESCOs operational performance, with the model explaining 66% (R2 = 0.656) of the variance. Furthermore, a concentrated ownership structure resulted in higher eco‐innovation capability and operational performance. These results provide pathways for industry practitioners to improve sustainable development contributions and operational performance whilst providing policymakers with a benchmark towards evaluating the effectiveness of the National Energy Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fill a gap in current literature, this paper analyses the impact of human factors on the operational performance of innovation hubs in the SAARC Nations and the European Union. Upon conducting an extensive examination of academic literature, four primary classifications of human factors were determined: organizational factors, individual attributes, the nature of a task and working environment. This research offers a cross-sectional analysis of these factors and their implications on innovation centres in the culturally and economically diverse domain of SAARC Nations and the European Union. The findings suggest that organizations functioning in the context of Innovation hubs in SAARC Nations, where centralized authority and value correctness is mostly emphasised on, face challenges in order to foster employee engagement and creativity. However, the innovation hubs of the European Union receive treatment from a more flexible and tolerant approach which is backed by progressive technology and is incredibly sensitive to concerns touching on ergonomics and safety of the working environment. This research highlights High performing, High committing, and High involvement management, management techniques to manage human factors to enhance operation performance. Adaptive and individual approach to the management of human variables, based on the differences in cultural and economic conditions of each region, is essential for effective development of the innovative substance and competitive advantage, the paper states. The results obtained from this study offer important guidance for the policymakers, managers and practitioners who are involved in managing and creating innovation hubs. It has provided a framework of how the organisation's operation performance may be improved through effective management of human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research aims to empirically determine how much influence supply chain management, strategic process, and total quality management have on the company's operational performance, both partially and simultaneously. Methodology/Approach: The study involved eight manufacturing companies in Bandung and focused on 104 operational employees. It used descriptive and verification analysis with a path analysis approach, and data were collected through questionnaires via purposive sampling and the Slovin formula. Findings: The results show that 1) Supply Chain Management (SCM) and Strategic Processes (SP) positively impact total quality management and operational performance, 2) Total Quality Management (TQM) negatively affects operational performance, and 3) supply chain management has the greatest influence on both. Research Limitation/Implication: Future research should expand the sample size or include companies from different regions and industries to improve external validity. Originality/Value of paper: This study emphasises the importance of supply chain management, strategic processes, and TQM in operational performance, with supply chain management being the most crucial factor for quality management and improved performance. Category: Research paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the role of organizational learning capability and entrepreneurial orientation on frugal innovation and, consequently, operational performance within the Brazilian textile industry. Design/methodology/approach: The sample consisted of 257 valid questionnaires from the textile industry in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling using SmartPLS software. Findings: The results showed that organizational learning capability is a strong driver of the operational performance when mediated by frugal innovation. Evidence also showed that relationships between entrepreneurial orientation, organizational learning capability, frugal innovation and operational performance are significant once the direct effect has more power than the indirect effect. Results elucidated different outcomes that are not in accordance with previously seen studies. Moreover, the latter shines a light on a possible interference caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value: The study clarifies the relationship that entrepreneurial orientation and organizational learning capability unleash in frugal innovation and operational performance. It also shows a new situation when looking at the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, organizational learning capability and operational performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Additive Manufacturing (AM) specifically for automotive prototyping. The findings and methodologies discussed have direct applications in the development of lightweight, high-performance automotive components. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of CAD and AM, manufacturers can rapidly prototype and iterate designs, leading to significant reductions in development time and cost. This approach is particularly valuable in the production of custom components, where precision and material optimization are critical. The methodologies outlined in this work have the potential to be applied not only in the automotive industry but also in other sectors where rapid prototyping and precision engineering are essential. This study investigated the integration of computer-aided design (CAD) and additive manufacturing (AM) in prototype production, particularly in the automotive industry. It explores how these technologies redefine prototyping practices, with a focus on design flexibility, material efficiency, and production speed. Adopting the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, this study encompasses a systematic review of 28 scholarly articles. It undertakes a comprehensive analysis to identify key themes, trends, and gaps in the existing research on CAD and AM integration in automotive prototyping. This study revealed the significant advantages of CAD and AM in prototype manufacturing, including improved design capabilities, efficient material usage, and the creation of complex geometries. It also addresses ongoing challenges, such as technology integration costs, scalability, and sustainability. Furthermore, this study foresees future developments by focusing on enhancing CAD and AM technologies to meet evolving market demands and optimize performance. This study makes a unique contribution to the literature by providing a detailed overview of the integration of CAD and AM in the context of automotive prototyping. This study incorporates valuable insights into the current practices and challenges and future prospects, potentially leading to more advanced, sustainable, and customer-oriented prototyping methods in the automotive sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research examined the effect of top management commitment (TMC) on operational performance and the mediating effect of green production. The study selected 219 manufacturing companies of Iraq. The result analyzed the direct effect of TMC on green production and operational performance. Also, the effect of green production on operational performance is analyzed. In addition, the mediating effect of green production between the association of TMC and operational performance analyzed. So, the direct and also indirect results found in the study were significant. This finding offers crucial understanding for managers in the manufacturing business, indicating that a strong commitment from top management and the use of green production may improve operational performance. Moreover, this study expands on the findings of prior research about the correlation between TMC and GP in enhancing OP. Therefore, this study enhances the existing research in Structural Equation Model (SCM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bridges are fundamental facilities in the transportation system, and their operational performance is crucial for economic and social development. Many large bridges are now equipped with structural health monitoring (SHM) systems that collect various types of real-time data. However, our user study found that despite the accumulation of massive amounts of monitoring data, current analysis methods cannot efficiently process large-scale, high-dimensional data. To address this, we have developed BOPVis, a visualization system for bridge monitoring data. BOPVis allows users to intuitively locate sensors and extract corresponding data from a 3D digital model of a bridge. It also provides convenient and flexible interactions for examining trends over time and correlations across hundreds of monitoring channels. A real-world long-span suspension bridge in China is used as a case study to demonstrate the advantages of the BOPVis system for operational performance mining. Through BOPVis, the global temperature deformation behaviors of the bridge are explored and found to align with the physical mechanism documented in the SHM literature. The BOPVis system, with its interactive visualization analysis capabilities, offers a new method for analyzing bridge monitoring data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a company, operational performance must be achieved to fulfill the company's strategy. The main objective of this systematic literature review is to explore and identify the role of Supply Chain Management (SCM) in enhancing the operational performance of companies by providing an overview of SCM across various organizations. The research methodology involves analyzing scientific articles based on the criteria of selecting articles published within the time frame of 2019-2024 from journals in quartiles (Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4). Utilizing the Watase Uake Prisma tool, 24 selected articles were produced. The results affirm that SCM plays a vital role in improving the operational performance of companies. The novelty of this article lies in its comprehensive approach to analyzing the role of SCM across different types of companies. Additionally, the authors integrate existing literature findings to identify the most commonly applied SCM strategies or practices. Overall, this research highlights the importance of effective SCM strategies and practices in enhancing operational efficiency, as well as identifying the challenges faced by companies in implementing SCM.

This study examines the relationship between psychological safety and operational performance in the context of supply chain partners, i.e. an inter-organisational setting. While collaboration among supply chain partners enables effective problem solving and generates innovation, such collaborations may result in superior performance improvements when a psychologically safe business environment is created along the supply chain. The analysis of this study is based on data collected from 241 manufacturing companies in China using a survey questionnaire. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the validity of the measures, and an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was used to test the hypotheses. Study results indicate that there is a significant positive association between psychological safety and operational performance in the context of supply chain partners. The results further show the relationship to be moderated by the learning orientation and inter-functional coordination. While the effect of psychological safety on performance has been studied in intra-organisational settings, studies on the psychological safety – performance relationship in an inter-organisational setting are scant. This study contributes to the literature in psychological safety and supply chain management as it extends the relationship to the context of supply chain partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]