XJTLU Research Repository

1. Delivery time dynamics in an assemble-to-order inventory and order based production control system

Author:Lin, JY;Naim, MM;Spiegler, VLM

Source:INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTION ECONOMICS,2020,Vol.223

Abstract:System dynamics play a critical role in influencing supply chain performance. However, the dynamic property of the assemble-to-order (ATO) system remain unexplored. Based on control theory, the inventory and order based production control system (IOBPCS) family, can be utilized as a base framework for assessing system dynamics. However, the underlying assumption in traditional IOBPCS-based analytical studies is that the system is linear and the delivery time to end customers is negligible or backlog is used as a surrogate indicator. Our aim is to incorporate customer delivery lead-time variance as the third assessment measure alongside capacity availability and inventory variance as part of the so-called 'performance triangle'- capacity at the supplier, the customer order decoupling point (CODP) inventory and the delivery lead-time. Using the 'performance triangle' and adopting non-linear control engineering techniques, we assess the dynamic behaviour of an ATO system in the electronics sector. We benchmark the ATO system dynamics model against the IOBPCS family. We exploit frequency response analysis to ensure a robust system design by considering three measures of the 'performance triangle'. The findings suggest delivery LT variance can be minimised by maintaining the ATO system as a true Push-Pull hybrid state with sufficient CODP stock, although increased operational cost driven by bullwhip and CODP variance need to be considered. However, if the hybrid ATO system 'switches' to the pure Push state, the mean and variance of delivery LT can be significantly increased.

2. The Reinforcing Effects of Formal Control Enactment in Complex IT Projects

Author:Liu, GHW;Chua, CEH

Source:JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS,2020,Vol.21

Abstract:Complex IT projects pose particular challenges for the application of control, because of the dynamism and uncertainty involved. Prior studies suggest self-control can complement formal control within complex projects. However, how managers can enact controlee self-control remains an unsolved question. This paper proposes and investigates how enacted formal control unfolds during the course of an IT project and, in particular, how formal control enactment can promote or hinder controlee self-control. We demonstrate through case studies of a control in two wireless communication product development projects that an enabling control style can induce controlees to act to the benefit of both the controller and the controlee, while an authoritative control style encourages controlees' self-interested behavior. We also show how controlees influence the enactment of control within complex projects and demonstrate the reinforcing effects of the controller's enactment and controlee response on project outcomes. For practice, this research identifies preconditions necessary for inducing controlee self-control.

3. Does organizational mindfulness facilitate enterprise system adaptation and organizational agility?

Author:Lee, Neil Chueh-An ; Liu, Gloria H.W. ; Wang, Cheng-Hui

Source:Proceedings of the 24th Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems Information Systems (IS) for the Future, PACIS 2020,2020,Vol.

Abstract:Nowadays firms rely on enterprise systems (ES) to enable organizational agility. However, uncertain environments require firms continuously adapt their ES to meet changing business needs. What factor will drive ES adaptation remains an understudied issue. This study holds that firms need to foster organizational mindfulness to facilitate ES adaptation and organizational agility. Substantial literature has examined the effects of various IT-related capabilities on organizational agility. Organizational attributes, such as organizational mindfulness, are rarely studied. We build and test a model based on the perspectives of organizational mindfulness and boundary object. Based on 138 responses of Taiwanese manufacturing firms, our findings demonstrate the importance of organizational mindfulness in achieving higher ES adaptation and thereby organizational agility. Implications of the results for practices and academics are provided. © Proceedings of the 24th Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems Information Systems (IS) for the Future, PACIS 2020. All rights reserved.

4. Factors Influencing the Acceptance of Self-Service Technologies: A Meta-Analysis

Author:Blut, M;Wang, C;Schoefer, K

Source:JOURNAL OF SERVICE RESEARCH,2016,Vol.19

Abstract:To facilitate efficient and effective service delivery, firms are introducing self-service technologies (SSTs) at an increasing pace. This article presents a meta-analysis of the factors influencing customer acceptance of SSTs. The authors develop a comprehensive causal framework that integrates constructs and relationships from different technology acceptance theories, and they use the framework to guide their meta-analysis of findings consolidated from 96 previous empirical articles (representing 117 independent customer samples with a cumulative sample size of 103,729 respondents). The meta-analysis reveals the following key insights: (1) SST usage is influenced in a complex fashion by numerous predictors that should be examined jointly; (2) ease of use and usefulness are key mediators, and studies ignoring them may underestimate the importance of some predictors; (3) several determinants of usefulness impact ease of use, and vice versa, thereby revealing crossover effects not previously revealed; and (4) the links leading up to SST acceptance in the proposed framework are moderated by SST type (transaction/self-help, kiosk/Internet, public/private, hedonic/utilitarian) and country culture (power distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance). Results from the meta-analysis offer managerial guidance for effective implementation of SSTs and provide directions for further research to augment current knowledge of SST acceptance.

5. Predicting customer absence for automobile 4S shops: A lifecycle perspective

Author:Wang, JW;Lai, X;Zhang, S;Wang, WM;Chen, JH

Source:ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE,2020,Vol.89

Abstract:Repair and maintenance services are among the most lucrative aspects of the entire automobile business chain. However, in the context of fierce competition, customer chums have led to the bankruptcy of several 4S (sales, spare parts, services, and surveys) shops. In this regard, a six-year dataset is utilized to study customer behaviors to aid managers identify and retain valuable but potential customer churn through a customized retention solution. First, we define the absence and presence behaviors of customers and thereafter generate absence data according to customer habits; this makes it possible to treat the customer absence prediction problem as a classification problem. Second, the repeated absence and presence behaviors of customers are considered as a whole from a lifecycle perspective. A modified recurrent neural network (RNN-2L) is proposed; it is more efficient and reasonable in structure compared with traditional RNN. The time-invariant customer features and the sequential lifecycle features are handled separately; this provides a more sensible specification of the RNN structure from a behavioral interpretation perspective. Third, a customized retention solution is proposed. By comparing the proposed model with those that are conventional, it is found that the former outperforms the latter in terms of area under the curve (AUC), confusion matrix, and amount of time consumed. The proposed customized retention solution can achieve significant profit increase. This paper not only elucidates the customer relationship management in the automobile aftermarket (where the absence and presence behaviors are infrequently considered), but also presents an efficient solution to increase the predictive power of conventional machine learning models. The latter is achieved by considering behavioral and business perspectives.

6. Supply chain finance: Latest research topics and research opportunities

Author:Chen, LJ;Chan, HK;Zhao, XD

Source:INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTION ECONOMICS,2020,Vol.229

7. The economic importance of rare earth elements volatility forecasts

Author:Proelss, J;Schweizer, D;Seiler, V

Source:INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF FINANCIAL ANALYSIS,2020,Vol.71

Abstract:We compare the suitability of short-memory models (ARMA), long-memory models (ARFIMA), and a GARCH model to describe the volatility of rare earth elements (REEs). We find strong support for the existence of long-memory effects. A simple long-memory ARFIMA (0, d, 0) baseline model shows generally superior accuracy both in- and out-of-sample, and is robust for various subsamples and estimation windows. Volatility forecasts produced by the baseline model also convey material forward-looking information for companies in the REEs industry. Thus, an active trading strategy based on REE volatility forecasts for these companies significantly outperforms a passive buy-and-hold strategy on both an absolute and a risk-adjusted return basis.

8. Enhancing Antenatal Clinics Decision-Making Through the Modelling and Simulation of Patients Flow by Using a System Dynamics Approach. A Case for a British Northwest Hospital

Author:Hernandez, JE;Adams, T;Ismail, H;Yao, H

Source:DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS VI - ADDRESSING SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIETAL CHALLENGES,2016,Vol.250

Abstract:In the past 60 years, the maternal mortality rate in the United Kingdom has dropped considerably. However, the number of high-risk pregnancies including those complicated by pre-existing maternal health problems e.g. diabetes or lifestyle illnesses e.g. obesity has resulted in an increased demand on obstetric outpatient management of pregnancy at British National Health Service hospitals. In addition, patients also expect better access and convenient appointments in the antenatal clinic. Despite on-going work in these areas, long delays in clinic waiting rooms continue to be a great source of frustration for patients and staff. These delays have a considerable social cost to the economy and a financial cost to the health economy. Therefore, this paper considers a realistic study for supporting decision-makers in antenatal clinics in British northwest hospitals by using a system dynamics approach through causal-loop diagrams. The focus is to enhance the performance of the clinic, by understanding the flow of patients though a hospital clinic thereby aiming to reduce waiting times for patients.

9. Sustainable supply chain Finance:Towards a research agenda

Author:Jia, F;Zhang, TY;Chen, LJ

Source:JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION,2020,Vol.243

Abstract:Supply chain finance (SCF) as an effective method for improving supply chain (SC) financial performance has attracted attention from both academics and industries in recent years. In the development of SCF research and practice, there is growing interest in how SCF solutions help to promote SC sustainability performance. However, the research on sustainable SCF (SSCF) remains scant; both scholars and managers have not fully realized the significant economic, environmental, and social value behind this concept. This study, based on a systematic literature review of 47 articles related to SCF and sustainability, summarizes SSCF motives, practices and outcomes. In addition, to further investigate this emerging topic, this review discusses how SSCF solutions may help to drive sustainable SC enablers as well as mitigate sustainable SC barriers, which, in turn, improves sustainable SC performance. Based on the descriptive and thematic findings, this review then develops a conceptual framework that facilitates the conceptual development of SSCF. Finally, it identifies gaps in the existing literature and provides recommendations for future research. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

10. Preference reversals in decisions that matter: Education choices in China

Author:Desmarchelier, B;Qian, LX;Fang, ES

Source:JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL AND EXPERIMENTAL ECONOMICS,2018,Vol.77

Abstract:Context effects are often tested with experiments about casual consumption choices. In this paper, we test for the emergence of such effects in life-changing choices made by respondents who are deeply considering the presented choice-set at the moment of the experiment. A choice experiment about postgraduate studies is implemented with 1486 Chinese undergraduate students. We observe the emergence of both attraction and compromise effects. Echoing a recent literature, we bring evidence that the attraction effect is violating the maximization theory.

11. Reconciling engineer-to-order uncertainty by supporting front-end decision-making

Author:Reid, Iain ; Bamford, David ; Ismail, Hossam

Source:International Journal of Production Research,2019,Vol.57

Abstract:This paper presents the dynamics of engineer-to-order (ETO) practice through Integration Definition for Function Modelling (IDEF) practice. The paper describes and defines how an ETO manufacturer utilised IDEF-QA in order to manage project uncertainties within the tendering process. The research is conceptualised through an empirical action research approach, involving an active role in the assessment of the ETO process. The paper revisits the use of IDEF, showcasing an assessment of output quality. It also suggests a road map for resource uncertainty within ETO, specifically when scoping the supply chain for ETO projects. The paper then presents an IDEF Quality Assessment model for improving the tendering process of ETO, and it examines the importance of evaluating project behaviour for supporting new future projects. The principal contribution is in how a structured approach provides IDEF with a quality assessment of resources, thereby consolidating and establishing a relationship for highlighting the uncertainties experienced by ETO manufacturers within the decision-making process. © 2018, © 2018 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

12. Recent Advancements in Big Data Technologies and Applications in Computing, IoT and Computer Engineering Technology J. UCS Special Issue

Author:Man, KL;Liu, O;Hughes, D;Lu, C

Source:JOURNAL OF UNIVERSAL COMPUTER SCIENCE,2018,Vol.24

13. Achieving sustainability in global sourcing: towards a conceptual framework

Author:Jiang, Y;Jia, F;Blome, C;Chen, LJ

Source:SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT-AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL,2020,Vol.25

Abstract:Purpose This paper aims to set out the development, based on the extant literature, an integrated conceptual framework for the emergent field of sustainable global sourcing (GS) that synthesizes its antecedents, GS practices and sustainable performance. Design/methodology/approach Conceptual theory building combined with content analysis is used to develop a framework and propositions representing a middle-range theory of sustainable GS. A literature review of the 89 most influential papers is followed by a further discussion based on the resource orchestration perspective (ROP) to advance an integrated conceptual framework. Findings Three main themes are identified from the literature as antecedents, GS practices and sustainable performance, with each theme being detailed in a variety of constructs. Based on the ROP, the relationships between these constructs are revealed, and therefore, an integrated conceptual framework is advanced via three sets of propositions in recourse orchestration breadth, recourse orchestration depth and resource orchestration evolution, respectively. Eight directions for future research are further proposed. Originality/value First, this study provides a comprehensive framework for future study in the emergent field of sustainable GS. Second, the authors contribute to theory development by proposing a ROP to explore the GS practices towards sustainability. Third, the future research directions we proposed can benefit scholars interested in the overlapping areas of GS and sustainability.

14. Schedule length and reliability-oriented multi-objective scheduling for distributed computing

Author:Liu, GQ;Zeng, YF;Li, D;Chen, YK

Source:SOFT COMPUTING,2015,Vol.19

Abstract:Maximizing system reliability and minimizing schedule length are the two major objectives in scheduling a distributed computing system. These two objectives have been considered separately by most researchers, although more realistically they should be considered simultaneously. This paper addresses the problem by taking a multi-objective approach in scheduling. A Tabu search algorithm is proposed and two lateral interference schemes are used to distribute the Pareto optimal solutions along the Pareto front uniformly. Randomly generated directed acyclic graphs and a real application task graph are used to study the performance of the proposed algorithms. Experimental results show that for this problem lateral interference has no influence on the non-dominated solution number, but does benefit the uniform distribution of non-dominated solutions, irrespective of the computation method used to determine distances between the solutions.

15. Western Financial Agents and Islamic Ethics

Author:Fang, ES;Foucart, R

Source:JOURNAL OF BUSINESS ETHICS,2014,Vol.123

Abstract:This paper investigates Western professional bankers' perceptions of Islamic finance. Exploiting data from an original survey, we carry out a principal component analysis (PCA) to characterize the main dimensions on which financial agents diverge. The PCA extracts five dimensions-accounting for 61 %% of the variance in the agents' answers-that we interpret with the help of a pilot field survey. In addition to confirm the increased association of Islamic financial values with ethical practices in the West, our results allow us to understand how the observed growth of the industry has been conceptualized by conventional agents. The five dimensions identified shed light on the multitude of constructs that have informed the diffusion of Islamic financial ideas to international markets. This supports the fact that Islamic finance cannot be seen as a single movement but is characterized by opposing and concurrent logics in global markets.

16. Does energy efficiency affect financial performance? Evidence from Chinese energy-intensive firms

Author:Fan, LW;Pan, SJ;Liu, GQ;Zhou, P

Source:JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION,2017,Vol.151

Abstract:Energy-intensive firms are confronted with increasing pressure to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption. This paper explores the relationship between the energy efficiency and financial performance of a sample of firms in China based on a panel dataset for the period 2010-2014. Six financial indicators representing the benefits of different stakeholders are used in the analysis. Our empirical results show that energy efficiency is positively related to return on equity, return on assets, return on investment, return on invested capital and return on sales but has no significant relationship with Tobin's q. In addition, we examine the interaction effect between energy intensity and firm growth and find that firm growth helps to enhance the positive relationship between energy intensity and financial performance. Our findings provide incentive for firms to be proactive in their efforts towards energy conservation and emissions reduction. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

17. Do environmental management systems help improve corporate sustainable development? Evidence from manufacturing companies in Pakistan

Author:Ikram, M;Zhou, P;Shah, SAA;Liu, GQ

Source:JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION,2019,Vol.226

Abstract:This study assessed whether the adoption of an environmental management system (EMS) as a part of an integrated management system (IMS) helps improve corporate sustainability based on the data for 211 manufacturing companies in Pakistan. A stakeholder-weighted CSR index and an equal-weighted CSR index were used to measure CSR performance of the selected companies. Descriptive t-test and exploratory factor analysis were employed to test the hypothesis and internal consistency. Structural equation modelling was used to measure various useful links between latent and observed variables. Results revealed that the mean CSR performance of EMS adopters was significantly higher than that of non-EMS adopters. Further, EMS adopters had positive and significant effect on soundness, environmental protection, fairness and contribution to society, whereas, the non-EMS companies had positive and substantial impact on employee satisfaction and economic contribution. In conclusion, EMS adoption can be an effective tool for organisations to address economic, social and environmental issues. Moreover, EMS adoption appears to be a viable means to develop business goals and improve CSR activities. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

18. Sharing Sustainability: How Values and Ethics Matter in Consumers' Adoption of Public Bicycle-Sharing Scheme(vol 149, pg 313, 2018)

Author:Yin, JL;Qian, LX;Singhapakdi, A

Source:JOURNAL OF BUSINESS ETHICS,2018,Vol.149

Abstract:© Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2016. The full mail address of the first and second authors is: International Business School Suzhou, Xi’an Jiaotong- Liverpool University, No.111 Ren’ai Road, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China The authors of the above mentioned article would like to add the following paragraph: Acknowledgments The authors thank the reviewers for their helpful comments. This research was supported by Jiangsu Philosophy Social Science Funding Programme of Jiangsu Department of Education (Project No. 2015SJD618 and No. 2015SJD617) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 71573213, 71202025, 71402093). Authors also thank Professor Russell Belk, Professor Florian Kohlbacher and the seminar participants at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, for their helpful comments and suggestions on earlier versions of this article.

19. Spatial network analysis of carbon emissions from the electricity sector in China

Author:He, YY;Wei, ZX;Liu, GQ;Zhou, P

Source:JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION,2020,Vol.262

Abstract:This paper constructs a spatial association network of carbon emissions from the electricity sector in Chinese provinces by using an improved gravity model and the data on carbon emissions in 2005-2016 from the electricity sector. Social network analysis and the quadratic assignment procedure were used to analyse spatial association characteristics and influential factors. It is found that the overall structure of the carbon emission spatial network in China's electricity sector was relatively stable and provinces were closely linked. Shanghai, Jiangsu, Tianjin, Beijing and Zhejiang all played a leading role in the network centre position. Spatial adjacency relationships and per capita GDP were positively correlated with carbon emissions from the electricity sector, but electricity intensity and industrial structure were negatively correlated. Urbanisation level does not affect the spatial correlation network of carbon emissions from electricity sector. Based on the results, some policy recommendations are finally made for reducing the carbon emissions from the electricity sector in China. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

20. New Dimensions of Service Offshoring in World Trade

Author:Atkins,Marc;Gilroy,Bernard Michael;Seiler,Volker

Source:Intereconomics,2019,Vol.54

Abstract:This paper discusses the growing dimensions of the offshoring of service activities both in manufacturing and service industries. Trade in Value-Added data implies a great potential of service offshoring for global welfare, however, the negative effects have to be balanced by appropriate institutions in domestic and foreign countries.

Department of Intelligent Operations and Marketing

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

E-MAIL：

107 records

Filter records by:

Publication Year

Content Type

Source

Authorship