Search

We assess the antecedent link between lean and green practices and assess the combined impact of lean and green practices on both environmental and operational performance. A lean and green practices performance model is proposed that incorporates lean and green practices as antecedents to both environmental and operational performance. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse data collected from a sample of 182 manufacturing managers in U.S. plants. We found that lean manufacturing practices are positively associated with environmental performance and operational performance and that green supply chain management practices are positively associated with environmental performance and environmental performance is positively associated with operational performance. No support was found for the idea that green supply chain management practices are positively associated with operational performance. While lean practices were found to directly affect environmental performance, the indirect effect of lean practices on environmental performance through green practices is stronger, indicating complementarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.robot.2007.05.013 Byline: Bill Bigge, Inman R. Harvey Abstract: Developing real robots that can exploit dynamic interactions with the environment requires the use of actuators whose behaviour can vary from high stiffness to complete compliance or zero impedance. We will outline our design for an electric actuator, called a programmable spring, which can easily be configured using a high-level programming interface to emulate complex multimodal spring damping systems. The types of behaviour that our actuator can exhibit are explored, including antagonistic actuation, cyclic behaviour and hysteresis. This system is intended as the basis for a cost-effective 'off-the-shelf' component for robotics research and development. Author Affiliation: Centre for Computational Neuroscience and Robotics, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9QH, UK

ABSTRACT This study empirically investigates the reliability and construct validity of difference score measures of latent business constructs in comparison to that of non-difference score measures of latent business constructs. […]

ABSTRACT Organizations are faced with the real possibility of a coming labor shortage. Today's HR manager will be an integral part of coping with the effects of this shortage and [...]

ABSTRACT A number of problems for American businesses and workers have arisen as a result of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). There is now a looming [...]

ABSTRACT Innovation is a proven success factor for many firms, specifically 3M. However, some feel that the impending implementation of the six sigma strategy may hinder the innovative process present […]