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The integration of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) in the education of future systems engineers has generated a significant impact that deserves to be analyzed from multiple perspectives. This article explores these repercussions using the neutrosophic PEST-SWOT approach, a methodology that combines political, economic, social and technological (PEST) analysis with strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) within a framework of neutrosophic indeterminacy and complexity. The adoption of ICT in educational curricula has transformed not only the way in which students access information and knowledge, but also the way in which they interact and collaborate, promoting a more dynamic and adaptive education to contemporary market demands. labor. This analysis reveals both the benefits and challenges associated with this transformation, offering a comprehensive vision that ranges from opportunities for educational innovation to the structural barriers that still persist. In this context, profound changes are observed in pedagogy and teaching strategies, where ICT acts as catalysts for more active and personalized learning. The PEST-SWOT neutrosophic approach allows us to unravel the complexity of these changes, highlighting how political and economic forces influence the implementation of new technologies, while social and technological variables outline the horizon of possibilities and challenges. Thus, the article not only presents a detailed overview of the repercussions of ICT in the training of systems engineers, but also offers a critical reflection on the future implications of these technologies in the educational field. Ultimately, this research highlights the need for adaptive educational policies and a robust technological infrastructure to maximize the benefits of ICT, fostering a resilient and cutting-edge learning environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dizzying technological advance has permeated all areas, including gastronomy. In this context, the development and implementation of a multiplatform mobile application has generated a significant impact in this sector. This article explores how this technological innovation has transformed the operational and commercial dynamics of gastronomy, using the neutrosophic PEST-SWOT approach. Through detailed analysis, political, economic, social and technological (PEST) factors are examined and combined with an exhaustive study of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) from a neutrosophic perspective, revealing the complexity and dynamism inherent in this interaction. Neutrosophic analysis allows for a deep understanding of the uncertainties and ambiguities surrounding the implementation of mobile applications in gastronomy, offering a holistic and nuanced view. The findings show that while there are significant challenges, such as adapting to rapid technological changes and data management, there are also vast opportunities to improve operational efficiency and user experience. This study highlights the importance of an adaptive strategy that is aware of the multiple dimensions of the dining environment, suggesting that success lies in the ability to navigate and balance these complex forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hebei, one of China's most populous provinces, is facing increasing pressure on its elderly care services due to a rapidly aging population. Home‐Based Elderly Care (HBEC) has emerged as a potential solution to alleviate this pressure. However, this care model is significantly impacted by various external environmental changes. The study employed a literature analysis method, conducting a PEST analysis, to examine the environmental factors influencing the progress of HBEC in Hebei Province, China. The findings offer novel research perspectives to inform strategic development in the HBEC industry. The study identified 19 environmental factors, both favorable and adverse, shaping the development of HBEC in Hebei Province. Based on these findings, the study recommends integrating laws, regulations, and systems, clarifying government roles, optimizing funding structure, expanding service delivery channels, enhancing public awareness of elderly care, and broadening professional talent development pathways. These insights can be valuable for policymakers, educators, and researchers seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities in the field, ultimately improving the well‐being of China's elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated reporting (IR) represents a cutting-edge model for sustainability reporting. Despite gaining traction in several countries, its acceptance in China remains limited, with research exploring its implementation within the Chinese context being notably sparse. Whether IR is a universally applicable reporting approach is under debate, but the context is deemed to influence the universality of IR adoption. Regrettably, context-specific research, especially concerning emerging markets such as China, is noticeably absent. This paper endeavours to address this gap, responding to the requests of IR scholars by examining the suitability of IR for China through a thorough consideration of wide-ranging national-level factors. A conceptual model, rooted in institutional theory, is presented to theorize the feasibility and necessity of IR in particular nations. To achieve the objectives of this study, a contextual analysis, comprising political, economic, social, and technological (PEST) analysis, coupled with content analysis, is employed. The PEST analysis evaluates factors uniquely relevant to the local Chinese environment, including cultural, economic, political, legal, international, social, and environmental aspects. Concurrently, content analysis is used to assess the alignment of Chinese firms' corporate reports with the International Integrated Reporting Framework (IIRF) for the years 2012 and 2020. The findings suggest that in the Chinese context, IR is both feasible and necessary, affirming its applicability within the country. This research offers guidance for future studies similar to ours and serves as a roadmap for further IR research within China. The implications of this study will be of interest to both practitioners and regulatory bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has made extensive outward foreign direct investments (FDI) over recent years, and Chinese international dairy sector investments have been substantial. Germany is the largest European Union milk producer and significant exporter of dairy products to China, but has yet to host these investments. Scientific literature considering industry-level macro-environmental factor falls short in exploring this phenomenon, leading to the question of how can the absence of Chinese foreign direct investments in the German dairy industry be explained by factors in the macro business environment? Following an abductive approach, this study explores the question through an adapted PESTEL conceptualization and operationalization based on an extensive literature review, descriptive analysis of secondary data and triangulated with semi-structured expert interviews. Results show factors such as existing governance structures and legislative tightening may outweigh incentives such as product quality characteristics and consumer preferences, and potential deals should be approached cautiously from a commercial perspective. Regulators and policy makers should also not reject Chinese investment applications out of hand. Our PESTEL application additionally illustrates how the framework could be adapted for initial considerations of FDI. This study is of interest to management academics, and stakeholders in both Germany and the wider dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gurimbang Mine Operation (GMO) is one of the mining concession sites under a Coal Contract of Work (CCOW) licence granted by the government to PT.BC. Mining at this location started in 2021 with 52 million MT of coal reserves that are expected to be depleted within 12 years (2021-2033). However, there are external challenges in the form of provincial roads crossing the GMO mining area, especially in Pit West and Pit South, resulting in approximately 3.5 million MT of coal reserves that cannot be mined. To support energy conservation on marginal coal reserves and maximise production, government support is required in allowing the relocation of the provincial road, enabling the entire coal reserves at the site to be exploited. This research aims to analyse the economic aspects and external factors affecting PT.BC's business environment related to the road relocation project. The research methods used include PESTEL analysis to measure the external impact on the business environment, as well as analysis of the company's tangible and intangible resources to evaluate PT.BC's ability to implement the project. In addition, Capital Budgeting was used to assess the financial feasibility of the project, and sensitivity analysis was conducted to identify economic parameters that have a significant impact on the feasibility of the project. The results show that the road relocation is financially feasible and necessary to maximise the coal reserves at the site. The implications of this study emphasise the importance of government support and effective resource management in overcoming operational challenges and ensuring the sustainability of mining operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is the dominant economic sector in Africa. Africa is distinguished by a large population working in agriculture, abundant and fertile land for self-sufficient food production, and even surplus production. However, the growth rate of food production and the ratio of those employed in agriculture to the total workforce clearly reflect the poor state of the sector. The main objective of the study is to identify the main problems and obstacles that have contributed to the underdevelopment of African agriculture from the 2010s to 2022, and to find solutions to them. The most determining factors of the continent's agriculture were collected using a PESTEL analysis. Using problem tree analysis, this paper examines the obstacles and problems that hinder the development of agriculture in Africa. It seeks answers to the problems that African governments and farmers should find solutions to in order to safely supply food to the ever-growing population. As a result, a solution tree was created. The development and modernization of agriculture in Africa is absolutely necessary to pave the way for food security and economic recovery. Self-sufficient food production would be the goal, taking into account sustainable development, which would require the identification of key policy areas, education and grassroots development of the sector, as well as curbing corruption and targeting subsidies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the management of the nocturnal environment in Belgium's Walloon region from a social-ecological-technical system perspective, aiming to enhance sustainability in nightscapes. To identify critical challenges and action priorities, we employ Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal analysis. Our research offers insights into the macro-environmental factors that organisations should prioritise when envisioning sustainable lighting and dark sky protection. Based on the outcomes of the Walloon case study and the recent literature, we determine the priorities that lead to shaping action plans and the research challenges to ensure a smooth transition towards more sustainable nightscapes. Key challenges emerge: a lack of awareness of light pollution, both for the authorities and citizens; a longstanding relationship between safety and lighting, with fears echoed in political discourse; and the lack of consideration of light pollution in legal, political and environmental agendas. To address these challenges, enhanced policies could be tailored to local contexts and improved to mitigate light pollution. Findings support a multidimensional strategy integrating public action with awareness campaigns, encouraging sustainable practices in management of nocturnal environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant number of first-generation offshore wind turbines (OWTs) have either reached or are approaching the end of their operational lifespan and need to be upgraded or replaced with more modern units. In response to this concern, governments, regulatory bodies and industries have initiated the development of effective end-of-life (EOL) management strategies for offshore wind infrastructure. Lifetime extension is a relatively new concept that has recently gained significant attention within the offshore wind energy community. Extending the service lifetime of OWTs can yield many benefits, such as reduced capital cost, increased return on investment (ROI), improved overall energy output, and reduced toxic gas emissions. Nevertheless, it is important to identify and prepare for the challenges that may limit the full exploitation of the potential for OWT lifetime extension projects. The objective of this paper is to present a detailed PESTLE analysis to evaluate the various political, economic, sociological, technological, legal, and environmental challenges that must be overcome to successfully implement lifetime extension projects in the offshore wind energy sector. We propose a decision framework for extending the lifetime of OWTs, involving the degradation mechanisms and failure modes of components, remaining useful life estimation processes, safety and structural integrity assessments, economic and environmental evaluations, and the selection of lifetime extension technologies among remanufacturing, retrofitting, and reconditioning. Finally, we outline some of the opportunities that lifetime extension can offer for the wind energy industry to foster a more circular and sustainable economy in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Turkish Educational Sciences is the property of Journal of Turkish Educational Sciences 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.)

The article is devoted to the rethinking of modern approaches to the organization of management, which is aimed at a comprehensive solution to the multitude of problems facing higher education. The article proves that the main direction of the university’s efforts should be career guidance management. Single attention is paid to the definition of the essence, place and tools that must it include and use in order to achieve a common goal - to increase the efficiency of the university. In addition, the article includes an expert stakeholder’s analysis of a higher education institution, which were separated into 9 groups and ranked according to the level of priority to work with them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This present study uses political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental (PESTLE) analysis and the strategic management theory to examine how external factors, namely the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the industrial revolution (IR) 4.0 technologies, the fuel price crisis and Sultanate of Oman Logistics Strategy (SOLS) 2040, affect the performance of container terminals in Oman. Design/methodology/approach: A hybrid decision-making method that combined the analytical hierarchy process technique and Bayesian network model was used to achieve the objective of the present study. Findings: The COVID-19 pandemic (54.60%) most significantly affected the performance of container terminals in Oman, followed by IR 4.0 technologies (19.66%), SOLS (17.00%) and fuel price crisis (8.74%). Container terminals in Oman were also found to perform "moderately," considering the uncertainty of external factors. Research limitations/implications: This study enriches existing literature by using PESTLE analysis to assess the impact of the external business environment on firm performance in the context of the maritime industry as well as highlights how challenging external environmental factors affect the performance of container terminals in Oman. Originality/value: This study contributes to developing novel study models and determining the performance level of container terminals in Oman considering integrated uncertainties and external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, IR 4.0 technologies, the SOLS 2040 and the fuel price crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agricultural Outlook (1673-3908) is the property of Institute of Agricultural Information, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences 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.)

Until now, North Sumatra's food security is still unstable. This condition gives a clear picture that North Sumatra Province experiences problems in the field of food security. Because of the position of the North Sumatra region's very strategic position, this province should be prosperous and independent in terms of food sources. This research aims to develop a policy strategy for the development of food commodities towards national food security. In supporting this research, SWOT, Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM), and Balanced Score Card (BSC) methods are used. The SWOT method was used to formulate a strategy based on the identification of internal factors and external factors that had a significant influence based on the Mckinsey 7S and PEST models. Furthermore, the ISM method is used to determine strategy priorities. The BSC method is used to determine the implementation plan and mapping of the strategies formulated. The development of food commodity development policy strategies towards food security in North Sumatra based on the results of the research consists of 11 (eleven) main strategies consisting of Strategy SO-1,2,3, Strategy ST-1,2,3, Strategy WO-1,2,3 and Strategy WT-1,2. It is hoped that the eleven strategies resulting from this research can increase the development of food commodities in North Sumatra towards stable and sustainable food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fire alarm systems are an important part of the safety concept in complex buildings. For this reason, there are high availability requirements for the systems, which must be sustained by a maintenance concept. A shortage of skilled workers and rising costs in the construction and operation of buildings are pushing these concepts ever further. This study deals with proposed changes to the maintenance strategies to achieve cost and time savings in addition to an improvement in quality. As a first part of the work, the current state of research on developments in fire alarm systems and their maintenance and inspection concepts is analyzed within a literature review. The results serve as a basis for further research, which is based on a qualitative content analysis of expert interviews and standardized surveys to identify the weaknesses in current inspection strategies and future factors influencing the methods and technology of inspections through technical innovations. As a data basis for this study, expert interviews were conducted with experts from manufacturers, industry associations, and standards bodies in order to determine the possible influencing factors. To determine their relevance for the inspection, more than 40 experts were surveyed about testing the systems. The presented results show that new technical risks, such as cyber threats and networked plant structures, are insufficiently covered by current inspection strategies. Furthermore, inspection steps can be substituted by new technologies. The most important influencing factors that can be identified here are automatic self-test functions of components and remote inspection techniques of the systems. Finally, the results are discussed within the framework of a PESTEL analysis. In conclusion, it can be stated that the integration of identified impacts in future inspection strategies brings time and efficiency benefits in the operation of systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the topic of climate change has been increasingly noticed by the public, and carbon emission reduction is one of the primary targets for various industries worldwide. The construction industry has a profound influence in this field, so it is significant to consider what kind of efforts can be made in building projects. Many scholars agree to promote prefabrication technology for construction, but its application still faces several challenges. By undertaking desk research, this paper explores the motivation and barriers to adopting modular techniques in construction projects under the lifecycle analysis. The preliminary information of the literature review is collated from dozens of peer-reviewed academic papers. Under the whole lifecycle thought, the PEST analysis tools also present the analytical results. This research finds that the top five barriers are the attitudinal resistance to using modular constructions, lack of sufficient modular expertise and practice, increasing costs and risks on supply chain management, insufficient government support and policy making, and high design and planning requirements. Moreover, the lifecycle analysis can divide the collated barriers into each stage, and adequate government support can assist in promoting the prefabrication in building projects in financial, legal, and technical aspects. The current findings can facilitate the broader use of prefabrication in building projects, improving the environmental sustainability of stakeholders. The process of proposed desk research can also be considered a referenced pattern for other related studies. More first-hand data should be collected and evaluated in further research to improve accuracy and adapt to the newest research field and industrial situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morocco’s exploration of nuclear energy aligns with both climate goals and national energy ambitions, offering a promising low-carbon alternative to conventional fossil fuels. Despite the nation’s significant strides in renewable energy, nuclear power remains understudied, revealing a critical literature gap. This research underscores the global imperative to transition to net-zero emissions and the pivotal role nuclear energy plays in addressing climate change. Within the context of Morocco’s 2030 plan, which prioritizes renewable energy, nuclear energy stands as an underexplored aspect, lacking comprehensive research. To bridge this gap, the study employs a PESTLE analysis to examine the political, economic, societal, technological, legal, and environmental factors influencing Morocco’s nuclear energy landscape. The integration of insights from various sources, including press releases, reports, and scientific publications, ensures a holistic and well-informed perspective on Morocco’s nuclear industry. The paper concludes by providing an overview of nuclear energy use on different scales, accompanied by a detailed discussion of the PESTLE analysis outcomes. This approach seeks to contribute valuable insights for informed decision-making and strategic planning in the realm of nuclear energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACTQuality seed is one of the most important farm inputs. The Ituri province, in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), faces enormous challenges in implementing a coherent formal seed sector, an essential gage for seed quality. This study aimed at diagnosing the Ituri seed value chain to propose improvements at all levels. Data collection was conducted using focus group discussions and direct interviews with key players at all levels, household surveys across the province, and a review of seed intervention programme reports, farm visit reports and other literature. Results showed that the seed system in the northeastern DRC is mainly informal due to several socioeconomic and technical factors. Less than a third of crops in the region had a formal seed delivery system. The cash flow in the seed sector was high owing to high seed demands from humanitarian organizations and farmer support structures, estimated at ∼1.5 million US$ in 2022 for the top three commercial seed commodities (common beans, maize and peanuts). However, the province seed production capacity through formal pathway is low (only ∼35 and 69% of the demands for common bean and maize, respectively, are covered by local productions), meaning that the seed demand is met either through importation or fraudulent conversion of farmer-saved seed. Due to lack of technical capacities, Ituri seed multipliers mainly produce open pollinated and synthetic varieties, while hybrids are imported from neighbouring countries. The lack of functional breeders in the provincial seed production chain, disproportionately low seed multipliers-to-distributors ratio, the weakness of the seed certification and regulation services, the border porosity, poor coordination among actors, and low awareness of farmers on seed qualities and advantages of using certified quality seed are the main structural and functional factors hindering the well-functioning of northeastern DRC seed system. This study provided an insight on the characteristics, stakeholders and challenges facing the seed sector in northeastern DRC and proposed an action plan for its improvement.

Purpose: The aim of this publication is to build a comprehensive model for determining organisation context as required by the standard ISO 9001:2015. Design/methodology/approach: The starting point was to analyse the literature using the method of systematic review described in the first part of a series of articles. It identified proposed analysis methods and techniques for determining organisation context. The next step in the research procedure led to a comprehensive model for organisation context analysis using these methods. Findings: The analysis of the organisation's context in the strategic management perspective focuses mainly on methods such as SWOT analysis and PEST analysis (sometimes extended by extracting additional factors for PESTEL analysis). The quality management perspective focuses on identifying customer requirements and substantiating stakeholders' needs. In contrast, the integrated perspective involves combining strategic and qualitative management methods for a comprehensive analysis of the organisation's context. Originality/value: The research provides knowledge on designing the process of organisation context analysis for the requirements of ISO 9001:2015. It contributes to the development of a proprietary model for organisation context analysis using the methods identified in the course of the systematic literature review process. Not only will the use of the model help meet the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 at a minimum level, but it will also enable organisations to properly prepare for market operations and improve skills to respond to changes in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rise of coffee shops in Bogor City is increasing every year. In the middle of a tightly populated café industry with coffee commodities, business actors are still recovering due to the impact of COVID-19. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the internal using the VRIO analysis method through a resource-based view (RBV) approach and external factors using the Porter's Five-Forces approach a PEST Analysis (politic, economy, social, and technology) of The Coffee Companion in facing competition, formulate suitable strategies, and determine priority strategies that can be implemented by the company. Design/methodology/approach: The analytical tools for this research include; the IFE matrix, EFE matrix, VRIO, PEST, and QSPM. Findings/Result: The results of the IE matrix analysis show alternative strategies that can be execute; intensive strategies (market penetration, market development, and product development) or integrative (backward integration, forward integration, and horizontal integration). There are four alternative strategies; improving the quality of existing products, increasing supplier control, improving marketing strategies, and expanding product distribution channels. The results of the QSPM analysis show that the best alternative strategy is to improve the quality of existing products which is 6.57 greater than the other three alternative strategies. Conclusion: The main strategy suggested to companies is to improve the quality of existing products. Followed by increasing control over suppliers, improving marketing strategies, and expanding distribution channels. Originality/value (State of the art): In implementing strategies that have been formulated by adapting to current conditions and making improvements to financial conditions and managing capabilities in facing changing consumer trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macao's academic book publishing industry has a rich history and has grown significantly over the past two decades. This study employs a semi‐structured in‐depth interview to evaluate the current and prospective state of Macao's academic book publishing industry. The SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis and the PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis are used in this study. The strengths of Macao's academic book publishing industry include that requesting an ISBN in Macao is easy and quick under the principle of 'One Country, Two Systems' and financial support from the Macao SAR government. However, the industry faces several weaknesses, including an underdeveloped cultural industry, a small seller market and a talent shortage, and less copyright output. Opportunities for the industry exist through constructing a Culture‐based Bay Area in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area and developing an international hub for digital trade in the Guangdong–Macao In‐Depth Cooperation Zone–Hengqin. However, Macao's academic book publishing industry is threatened by emerging Internet technologies, such as augmented reality, the metaverse, and ChatGPT. This paper also proposes strategies for future practice, such as taking the initiative to encourage a group of top‐tier publishers to establish branches in Macao and improve publications' cultural elements. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the strategic management of Macao's academic book publishing industry and will be of interest to publishers, academic researchers, and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the bilateral relations between Pakistan and the European Union, with a specific emphasis on trade dynamics. The primary purpose is to explore the factors influencing trade between these two entities, delving into historical perspectives, contemporary developments, and future milestones set by the European Union and Commission. Design/methodology/approach: The objectives are achieved through a comprehensive analysis of trade data, policy documents, and relevant literature. The research employs a multi20 faceted approach, encompassing both theoretical and empirical considerations. The theoretical scope extends from the historical Silk Road to the contemporary geopolitical landscape, while the empirical analysis involves a PEST analysis and examination of internal and external factors influencing trade. Findings: The research reveals significant insights into the factors shaping trade relations between Pakistan and the European Union. These findings are presented through a thorough analysis, discussion, and interpretation of results, providing a comprehensive understanding of the bilateral trade dynamics. Research limitations/implications: While offering valuable insights, this study recognizes potential limitations, such as data constraints and geopolitical factors. Suggestions for future research are provided, focusing on areas that could further enhance the understanding of the relationship and trade dynamics. Practical implications: The paper identifies outcomes and practical implications for businesses and enterprises engaged in trade between Pakistan and the European Union. Recommendations for changes in business practices are discussed, considering the potential commercial and economic impact of the findings. Social implications: The study assesses the social impact of the Pakistan-European Union trade relationship, exploring how it influences public attitudes, corporate social responsibility, and environmental considerations. The research may inform public and industry policies, potentially affecting the overall quality of life. Originality/value: This paper contributes novelty by offering new insights into the dynamics of the Pakistan-European Union relationship, specifically in the context of trade. Its value lies in its relevance to policymakers, businesses, and researchers interested in understanding and enhancing this bilateral association [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Greek fishing sector faces various challenges which can threaten its long-term sustainability. The PESTLE analysis is used to assess the impact of the external environment on the Greek fishing sector. According to our analysis, appropriate strategic planning should emphasize promoting the integration of innovation and technology transfer from the laboratory to the fisheries sector to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities. Future research can be conducted on the prioritization of external factors by sector experts and the coupling with other strategic planning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facility location, particularly in the context of international investments by global enterprises, stands out as a paramount concern within the purview of top management's strategic decision-making process. The selection of a suitable location plays a pivotal role in determining the ultimate achievement of organizational objectives. The process of selecting an appropriate location requires the comprehensive analysis of a substantial volume of data, encompassing diverse tangible and intangible evaluation criteria that may exhibit inherent conflicts. This paper addresses the challenge of determining the best location for a manufacturing facility by employing alternative performance measures within the framework of the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model. In a performance evaluation process, not only positive but also negative aspects should be determined. This paper, therefore, proposes a double-frontier DEA-AR model, which is an integrated approach that incorporates the efficient frontier, anti-efficient frontier, and assurance region weight restrictions, with the aim of increasing the discrimination ability of the DEA method. An efficient frontier evaluates the information of each location from a positive viewpoint, while the worst side is evaluated by an anti-efficient frontier. The technique of weight restrictions, which allows incorporating expert opinion into the assessment, is also applied with both frontiers to restrict the regions of weights to some specific area. The prescribed approach is illustrated by a numerical example of selecting the best location among ten different countries under consideration of 22 selection criteria obtained from PEST analysis. The results show that the proposed alternative performance measures significantly improve discrimination capability, enabling the ranking of candidates based on their suitability for the optimal location.

From a socialist society where public transit was the primary form of transportation to the modern “Silicon Valley” of Eastern Europe, where the streets are flooded with cars. Cluj has changed over the years; overturned by university students for most of the year, the city and encompassing communes have experienced significant growth, which stresses the existing socialist infrastructure and causes high levels of strategic planning to accommodate the present and future transportation plans. Moreover, the CTP is no exception; as the only provider of public transportation in Cluj, it is at the centrefold of this predicament and needs to distinguish itself as a success within Cluj to provide for the community's needs. In this paper, we look at data from multiple sources to analyze what drives people's choice of transportation and pinpoint some fundamental notions as to why people choose private vehicles and other forms of transportation over public transit. Then, using SWOT and PEST analysis, we look to find solutions to benefit the community. Many options are available to develop more fluidity in the city, change the notion of public transportation, and create reliance on public transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the sustained development of China's used car market, an intricate analysis and comprehension of this sector become paramount. This investigation incorporates both PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis and Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) predictive models to discern the various determinants of the Chinese used car market and to precisely forecast the prices of used vehicles. Initially, the PEST analysis delineates how an amalgamation of macro-environmental factors, including policy shifts, economic trends, societal inclinations, and technological advancements, coalesces to influence and mould the used car landscape. Subsequently, the GPR predictive framework furnishes a data-driven approach to pricing, with the findings highlighting the original new car price, horsepower, and engine displacement as pivotal factors influencing used car valuation. This study proffers invaluable insights for policymakers, used car distributors, and manufacturers, facilitating a refined comprehension of market dynamics and the formulation of efficacious strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With China's "One Belt, One Road" (OBOR) cooperation initiative in 2013, more and more Chinese SMEs enterprises (SMEs) are heading overseas to international markets (Li, 2020). In the early stage of internationalization, most Chinese SMEs still focus on traditional export trade. By 2023, after ten years of development of the Belt and Road initiative (BRI), the traditional export trade model is no longer sufficient to support Chinese SMEs to cope with competition in the international market (Han, 2021). However, most Chinese SMEs do not have a clear internationalization strategy, so the development of a clear internationalization strategy has become an important research topic for Chinese SMEs. This paper takes D&H company as the research object, uses the PEST analysis model, and the internal factor evaluation (IFE) and external factor evaluation (EFE), internal and external environmental factor analysis matrix to sort out the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities and threats faced by the company, and applies strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats (SWOT) and the quantitative strategic planning matrix (QSPM) tools to study the internationalization paths and plans of D&H. This paper explores the new situation of internationalization in a practical sense and provides research examples and methods for Chinese SMEs to develop internationalization routes with some reference value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista El Directivo al Día is the property of Centro de Informacion y Gestion Tecnologica (CIGET) 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.)

To promote more environmentally friendly and cost-effective agri-environmental-climate measures in the European Union, novel approaches such as resultbased and collective schemes are advocated. This study explores macro-environmental factors facilitating or impeding the adoption of such schemes. By means of a PESTLE analysis and based on a survey of 85 stakeholders from Austria and Germany, we identify major adoption factors within the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental domains. Our results indicate that economic, legal, and social factors are the most influential, with fair payment, clear contract design, and social relations being the most commonly mentioned. Moreover, the unpredictability of nature is a major impediment to the adoption of result-based schemes, while social dynamics and farmers' attitudes are key factors for a successful implementation of collective contracts. Overall, the study provides strategic and practical insights that can support the design and implementation of novel agri-environmental-climate measures under the Common Agricultural Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality seed is one of the most important farm inputs. The Ituri province, in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), faces enormous challenges in implementing a coherent formal seed sector, an essential gage for seed quality. This study aimed at diagnosing the Ituri seed value chain to propose improvements at all levels. Data collection was conducted using focus group discussions and direct interviews with key players at all levels, household surveys across the province, and a review of seed intervention programme reports, farm visit reports and other literature. Results showed that the seed system in the northeastern DRC is mainly informal due to several socioeconomic and technical factors. Less than a third of crops in the region had a formal seed delivery system. The cash flow in the seed sector was high owing to high seed demands from humanitarian organizations and farmer support structures, estimated at ∼1.5 million US$ in 2022 for the top three commercial seed commodities (common beans, maize and peanuts). However, the province seed production capacity through formal pathway is low (only ∼35 and 69% of the demands for common bean and maize, respectively, are covered by local productions), meaning that the seed demand is met either through importation or fraudulent conversion of farmer-saved seed. Due to lack of technical capacities, Ituri seed multipliers mainly produce open pollinated and synthetic varieties, while hybrids are imported from neighbouring countries. The lack of functional breeders in the provincial seed production chain, disproportionately low seed multipliers-to-distributors ratio, the weakness of the seed certification and regulation services, the border porosity, poor coordination among actors, and low awareness of farmers on seed qualities and advantages of using certified quality seed are the main structural and functional factors hindering the well-functioning of northeastern DRC seed system. This study provided an insight on the characteristics, stakeholders and challenges facing the seed sector in northeastern DRC and proposed an action plan for its improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal states are currently transitioning their traditional socio-economic activities into a single platform to address the emerging issues of the coast and marine environment. For countries like Pakistan, managing multiple coastal and marine activities is a significant challenge. The lack of proper management policies and an inefficient decision-making process put various types of pressure on the ecological functions of Pakistan's coastal and marine areas. The Government of Pakistan has not yet prioritized coastal and marine affairs in its policy agenda, resulting in a halt to the process of sustainable development. Moreover, a lack of financial allocation for large-scale coastal and marine projects, a shortage of trained human resources, insufficient coordination among organizations, and unstable political decisions and governance impede the sustainable delivery of the projects. This paper discusses Pakistan's coastal and marine policy targets and highlights various issues through PESTLE analysis, which encompasses political (P), economic (E), social (S), technological (T), legal (L), and environmental (E) factors that limit the advancement of sustainable coastal and marine development. This paper aims to determine the advantages of adopting marine spatial planning (MSP) in Pakistan and how its implementation can bring social, ecological, and economic prosperity. The study provides a baseline for the country's coastal and marine policymakers regarding the advancement of a blue economy through MSP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the contemporary discourse, smart agriculture (SA) stands out as a potent driver for sustainable economic growth. The challenges of navigating SA transition are notably intricate in developing nations. To effectively embark on this transformative journey, strategic approaches are imperative, necessitating a thorough examination of the prevailing agricultural ecosystem. This study seeks to formulate strategies that advance Turkey's agricultural sector. The primary research questions focus on optimizing the benefits of SA by aligning strengths and opportunities with diverse socio-economic and environmental factors, while also exploring effective strategies to mitigate the impact of weaknesses and threats within the agricultural landscape. To achieve this objective, the utilization of the 2-Tuple linguistic (2TL) model integrated DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) methodology in conjunction with SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) and PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental) analyses is proposed. The integration of linguistic variables enhances the capacity to delve deeper into system analysis, aligning more closely with human cognitive processes. The research commences with SWOT and PESTLE analyses applied to Turkey's agricultural sector. Subsequently, the 2TL-DEMATEL approach is employed to investigate interrelationships among analysis components. This inquiry aims to establish causal relations, facilitating the derivation of relevant strategies. The case study centers on Turkey, a developing country, with outcomes indicating that the highest-priority strategies revolve around addressing 'environmental threats' and 'economic weaknesses'. The subsequent evaluation encompasses eight dimensions, resulting in the generation of fifteen distinct strategies, a process facilitated by collaboration with field experts. Importantly, both the results and strategies undergo rigorous validation, drawing upon insights from the recent literature and field experts. Significantly, these findings align seamlessly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), substantiating the study's broader significance in fostering a sustainable future for Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this publication is to examine approaches to determining the context of an organisation in light of the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 standard and the subject literature. The study aims to understand the essence of the analysis of the organisation's context. Design/methodology/approach: The study used a systematic literature review method. The steps of the procedure included the selection of publications from selected Web of Science and Scopus databases, as well as a review of publications available on Google Scholar, the analysis of paper abstracts to select them for full-text analysis, the identification of the main lines of research, and the identification of three perspectives of the analysis of the organisation's context: (1) those stemming from the strategic management output; (2) those determined by a quality management-centred approach; and (3) the integrated one that takes both approaches into account. Findings: The analysis of the organisation's context in the strategic management perspective focuses mainly on methods such as SWOT analysis and PEST analysis (sometimes extended by extracting additional factors for PESTEL analysis). The quality management perspective focuses on identifying customer requirements and substantiating stakeholders' needs. In contrast, the integrated perspective involves combining strategic and qualitative management methods for a comprehensive analysis of the organisation's context. Practical implications: The study provides organisations with insights into the diversity of context analysis methods and provides a basis for recommending the use of the integrated perspective for effective quality management. Originality/value: This work adds value by identifying and analysing different perspectives on the analysis of the organisation's context and demonstrating the potential for applying an integrated perspective. Promoting a better understanding of the organisation's context by management in light of the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 standard and the subject literature, can influence the alignment of quality management strategies with stakeholder and market needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, there has been a notable increase in the focus on the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. This study aims to fill a notable void in the current body of literature by examining the connections between the implementation of BIM and the factors that influence it. Additionally, it investigates the resulting effects on collaboration, continuous improvement, data management, gradual adoption, standardisation, and the various dimensions of society, economy, politics, and technology. This study examines the impact of BIM adoption within the AEC sector, focusing on its external environment by using a Political, Economic, Social, and Technological (PEST) approach. Using a quantitative approach, data was gathered by means of a survey questionnaire that was delivered to a sample of 216 professionals in the AEC business, who were chosen using purposive selection. The results suggest that the deployment of BIM cooperation, continuous improvement, effective data management, gradual acceptance, and standardisation, leading to positive outcomes in several areas such as social, economic, political, and technical. These findings have significant consequences for professionals working in the field.

In recent years, the topic of climate change has been increasingly noticed by the public, and carbon emission reduction is one of the primary targets for various industries worldwide. The construction industry has a profound influence in this field, so it is significant to consider what kind of efforts can be made in building projects. Many scholars agree to promote prefabrication technology for construction, but its application still faces several challenges. By undertaking desk research, this paper explores the motivation and barriers to adopting modular techniques in construction projects under the lifecycle analysis. The preliminary information of the literature review is collated from dozens of peer-reviewed academic papers. Under the whole lifecycle thought, the PEST analysis tools also present the analytical results. This research finds that the top five barriers are the attitudinal resistance to using modular constructions, lack of sufficient modular expertise and practice, increasing costs and risks on supply chain management, insufficient government support and policy making, and high design and planning requirements. Moreover, the lifecycle analysis can divide the collated barriers into each stage, and adequate government support can assist in promoting the prefabrication in building projects in financial, legal, and technical aspects. The current findings can facilitate the broader use of prefabrication in building projects, improving the environmental sustainability of stakeholders. The process of proposed desk research can also be considered a referenced pattern for other related studies. More first-hand data should be collected and evaluated in further research to improve accuracy and adapt to the newest research field and industrial situations.

This study employs SWOT and PEST analyses to examine the sports market by identifying internal strengths and weaknesses alongside external opportunities and threats. It integrates these findings with contextual environmental factors—political, economic, social, and technological—to strategically plan marketing approaches. The paper further explores the implementation of personalized recommendation algorithms to analyze sports marketing data and customer value trends, establishing dual promotional strategies for products. This entails comprehensive data analysis concerning the accuracy, coverage, and novelty of personalized product recommendations. The empirical results highlight significant growth in China’s sports market, which expanded from 0.74 million participants in 2014 to 133 million in 2023. Notably, in 2023, the per capita economic contribution in Beijing soared to 99,986 yuan, reflecting the burgeoning potential of the sports market in response to economic development. The study identifies robust national policy support as a critical competitive advantage, scoring 13 points. At the same time, the level of competition and external impacts from other domestic and international industries pose significant threats, receiving a threat assessment score of 12. Additionally, it was found that residents of first-tier cities exhibit a stronger preference for sports, suggesting targeted pricing strategies for sports products around 1,000 RMB to align with market dynamics.

The decision of the Ministry of Health to convert many hospitals in the country from general hospitals to hospitals dedicated in treating covid-19 resulted in the deterioration of the health of the chronically ill. As a result, the access to health units of patients with chronic deceases was affected, which led to neglected early diagnosis and insufficient access to the appropriate medication. The abovementioned parameters, in combination with the fear of exposure to Covid-19, led to reduced hospitalization of these patients and furthermore, to the negative development of their health. The pandemic imprint on people with severe mental disorders has been crucial. In bipolar disorder which is one of the many categories of mental disorders there are political, economic, social and technological factors that are vital and affect the management of this chronic disease. Thus, the situation created the urgent need to immediately reorganize a network of Primary Health Care, as the first point of contact of the patient with the health care system. As a service unit of P.RC. for the mentally ill, the Peristeri Mental Health Center, can provide the first stage of treatment for patients with bipolar decease. This could be achieved by setting goals such as the creation of mobile units, telepsychiatry and conducting training seminars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of rampant urbanization, industrialization, and continuous advancements in construction technology, sustainable development in the construction industry becomes increasingly imperative. A promising avenue toward this sustainability is through the adoption of Recycled Construction Materials (RCMs), yet their widespread use remains complex and filled with numerous barriers, signifying an urgent need for the systematic investigation of these obstacles. This study uniquely employs a qualitative PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis to illuminate the intricate impediments to the adoption and promotion of RCMs. Data for this study were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a variety of experts in the field. The research identifies substantial barriers within each PEST category. Political factors include regulatory biases and limited funding for RCM research, while economic factors involve the higher costs and limited availability of RCMs. Social aspects revolve around public awareness, safety concerns, and resistance to change within the industry. Technological issues focus on the development, performance, and compatibility of RCMs, the slow innovation pace, and the absence of standardized guidelines. Additionally, this study stands out by suggesting strategic, context-specific recommendations aimed at surmounting these obstacles and further fostering the adoption of RCMs. The solutions proposed are intimately linked to the challenges identified, highlighting the practical value and relevance of this study for guiding future research and policy development in the face of ongoing advancements in construction technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2021, the Advanced Practice Radiation Therapy Working Group (APRTWG) was established in the United States as a grassroots alliance of multidisciplinary radiation oncology professionals—radiation therapists, physicians, dosimetrists, and administrators—located across the country, interested in studying and establishing the Advanced Practice Radiation Therapist (APRT) level of practice in the United States. The APRT model has shown success in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and other countries, documenting the value of the APRT to the quality and advancement of clinical care. In the United States, the APRTWG seeks to coordinate activities, align resources, and drive the national agenda to collectively develop and define novel models of care using APRT in line with the evolving needs of patients and the radiation therapy profession. This environmental scan aims to examine the context of radiation oncology medical practice in the United States to inform pathways ahead for a proposed APRT model through a Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal (PESTEL) analysis. A literature search was conducted to understand the chronological timeline of the development of APRT during the past 25 years. Items that included the activities, scope of practice, and implementation of APRT nationally and internationally were identified. Papers describing advanced practitioner roles that are commonly found in the multidisciplinary team in radiation oncology both in the United States and internationally, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, were excluded. Despite the environmental scan outcome, it is acknowledged that data collation and analysis was not as robust as that anticipated by undertaking a systematic review. Papers were identified by the lead author that aligned with each of the PESTEL factors. Defined broadly, a new care model can adjust how health services are delivered by incorporating best practices in patient care for a specific population, person, or patient cohort. As patients enter different stages of their disease, the purpose of a new model is to provide individuals with the right care, at the right time, by the right team, in the right place. It is clear that the opportunity for positive change and impact on the current state of practice in radiation oncology exists. The environmental scan findings demonstrate the complexities associated with implementing APRT in the United States, with multifactorial political, environmental, societal, technological, economic, and legal aspects to consider. The APRTWG will continue to lead and participate in such activities to demonstrate and identify APRT role opportunities in the United States and drive the nationwide implementation of the APRT level of practice in this country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of the business plan for the Systemic Design Approach Company (SDAC) facilitated the commencement of its operations and contributed to alleviating the shortage of drinking water in vulnerable regions lacking this water resource in Ecuador. This plan offers services ensuring sustainability, resilience, and energy efficiency, addressing the carbon footprint generated by the systems supplying them and optimizing the resources required for their construction. The applied techniques include PESTEL analysis, Strategic Profile, SWOT matrix, and Benchmarking. For operational development, an economic and financial analysis is established, demonstrating the institution's solvency, profitability, and stability in the market. The establishment of these networks ensures resilience, sustainability, and energy efficiency of the system, reduces water resource scarcity, lowers investment costs, and enhances user satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yum! Brands, Inc. has always been committed to capturing the Chinese market and has successfully adopted brand marketing strategies. With the rapid development of the Chinese market economy, Yum! Brands, Inc. has gained tremendous opportunities in one of the most important markets in the world. However, the fierce competition in the context of consumer upgrading also brings challenges. In the current market environment, consumers demand more in terms of products, dining environment, services, and experiences, while demonstrating personalized and diversified needs. As a result, Yum! Brands, Inc. is faced with the essential task of adapting to market development and meeting the changing needs of consumers to maintain a competitive advantage. This study investigates the marketing strategy of Yum! Brands, Inc. in the Chinese market by using PEST and SWOT analyses through the literature research method. The study aims to promote Yum! Restaurant Group's market influence and stable development, as well as to provide a reference for similar foreign restaurant companies' local marketing strategies in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the development of the IT industry is key for the formation of strategic decisions of government bodies and businesses aimed at creating a competitive and innovative economy, as well as for forecasting the opportunities and challenges that await this industry in the future. The purpose of the work is to analyze trends in the IT industry in Ukraine and forecast the dynamics of development of key indicators of its development, as well as to offer a scientific approach to the formation of development strategies for IT companies based on strategic analysis. The article provides a detailed analysis and review of modern trends in the development of the IT industry in Ukraine. The authors investigated the key factors and challenges affecting the dynamics of this sector in the country and determined competitive advantages and potential limitations for its development, respectively. The forecast of the volume of IT exports from Ukraine as a key indicator of the development of the IT industry for the coming years is also presented, which is based on the analysis of current data and trends in the development of the industry, taking into account the year of fullscale war, which allows us to give an objective perspective on the possibilities of growth and development of IT -sector in Ukraine. The analyzed actual and forecast data give reasons to consider the IT industry promising for the further development of the economy of our country. The article focuses on the importance of using strategic analysis for the development of IT companies, in particular, in terms of developing strategies for the development of IT companies, it is recommended to use two main tools - SWOT analysis and PEST analysis. The authors have developed a matrix of alternative strategies for the development of an IT company depending on its position in the context of the presence of internal strengths and weaknesses and existing opportunities and threats from the outside. This approach allows companies to more objectively assess their opportunities, understand threats and make effective strategic decisions aimed at success and stable development in a rapidly changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]