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1 – 10 of 35Laxmi Gupta, Bishal Dey Sarkar and Ravi Shankar
This study aims to address the critical need for innovation in the power grid sector, driven by global carbon reduction commitments. It highlights the pivotal role of critical…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address the critical need for innovation in the power grid sector, driven by global carbon reduction commitments. It highlights the pivotal role of critical success factors (CSFs) in enhancing system adaptability and environmental mitigation within India’s power industry.
Design/methodology/approach
This research is grounded on transition management theory to identify and validate the CSFs necessary to integrate energy storage systems (ESS). Here, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) are integrated to evaluate the model’s effectiveness in reducing CO2 emissions while ensuring grid stability and flexibility.
Findings
The research develops a seven-level hierarchical model illustrating the interaction of ESS components for a stable power grid, clean energy and a profitable electric industry. It emphasizes the strategic significance of managing key factors to reduce CO2 emissions and ensure grid stability. The study recommends continuous monitoring at tactical and operational levels to enhance overall performance.
Research limitations/implications
The study provides policymakers with strategic insights for the successful implementation of smart grid initiatives, facilitating effective decarbonization of the electricity industry. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive framework for minimizing the environmental impact associated with electricity generation, thereby enhancing overall operational sustainability and efficiency.
Originality/value
The originality of this study lies in its integration of EFA and TISM for robust model assessment and the application of transition management theory to identify and validate CSFs in the integration of ESS. This approach offers a novel perspective on enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of power grids.
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Adams Lukman Jimoh, Salman Abdulrasaq and YA. Olawale
The level of corruption in Nigeria is very high, and this has grossly reduced the desired confidence and trust in the nation’s political leaders and political institutions. It is…
Abstract
Purpose
The level of corruption in Nigeria is very high, and this has grossly reduced the desired confidence and trust in the nation’s political leaders and political institutions. It is even worse to the extent that many of its citizens, especially in the medical profession, lecturers and other specialties, are leaving the country altogether because they have already lost hope in the country called Nigeria. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate how political trust in Nigeria is affected by perceived corruption and to ascertain how social media use functions in this relationship.
Design/methodology/approach
Because this study is quantitative in nature, a positivist research philosophy is being used. A cross-sectional research design was used in this study. 14.1 million voters in north-central Nigeria are the study’s population, and a sample size of 385 was determined through an online sample size calculator with a 2% margin of error and a 95% confidence interval. The population was divided into smaller units for the study, and samples were selected from each unit using multistage sampling and simple random sampling techniques. An online self-administered questionnaire was used through the various social media’s platforms because of the nature of the study’s population to collect data. To examine the gathered data, descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. While inferential statistics were used to test the hypotheses through partial least squares structural equation modeling, descriptive statistics were used to analyze the respondents’ demographic data via a frequency table.
Findings
This study’s findings showed that social media use mediates the relationship between perceived corruption and political trust in Nigeria and that perceived corruption positively and significantly affects political trust in Nigeria.
Research limitations/implications
This study is not without its limitations. Therefore, the few limitations of the study range from the limited sample sample to the population of Nigeria. Also, using only the quantitative research method for the nature of this research is another major limitation of the study. And lastly, using one out of the six zones in Nigeria will make it difficult to generalize the findings of the study. However, it is then recommended that future researchers consider a larger population than the current study for proper coverage; the future study can also use both the quantitative and qualitative research methods.
Practical implications
The practical implications of understanding how social media shapes political trust among political leaders through the lens of perceived corruption in the Nigerian political system are dimensional and have implications for various stakeholders, including policymakers, political leaders, media professionals and the general public. First, for policymakers and political leaders, the findings offer insights into the importance of proactive and transparent communication on social media. Recognizing the impact of social media on shaping perceptions of corruption, political figures such as the office of the presidency, senators, governors and all other political office holders can leverage these platforms to engage people.
Originality/value
This study is innovative because it examines, through the lens of perceived corruption, how social media use influences political trust among political leaders. This approach provides a new look at the relationship between digital engagement and political attitudes.
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Seyi S. Stephen, Ayodeji E. Oke, Clinton O. Aigbavboa, Opeoluwa I. Akinradewo, Pelumi E. Adetoro and Matthew Ikuabe
The chapter highlighted the key themes explored on procurement in construction, emphasising its significance in driving sustainability, efficiency, and innovation within the…
Abstract
The chapter highlighted the key themes explored on procurement in construction, emphasising its significance in driving sustainability, efficiency, and innovation within the industry. It began with an introduction to the topic, followed by an exploration of the importance of procurement planning and the conceptual framework of procurement. The study then delved into sustainable procurement practices in construction, highlighting the role of technology, innovation, and stakeholder engagement in advancing procurement strategies. It also examined the concept of procurement in stealth construction, focusing on critical aspects such as the cross-section of the building, energy transmission, and countermeasures. The chapter summarised the principles guiding procurement towards stealth construction, emphasising the importance of environmental protection, safety, project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetics in driving sustainable construction practices.
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Luqman Oyewobi, Taofeek Tunde Okanlawon, Kabir Ibrahim and Richard Ajayi Jimoh
The construction industry faces public criticism for issues like wastefulness, inefficiency, slim profits, scheduling setbacks, budget overruns, quality concerns, trust deficits…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction industry faces public criticism for issues like wastefulness, inefficiency, slim profits, scheduling setbacks, budget overruns, quality concerns, trust deficits, transparency, coordination, communication and fraud. This paper aims to assess the nexus between barriers and drivers for adopting blockchain in construction and its impact on construction lifecycle.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research approach was used to collect data using a well-structured questionnaire survey. The survey, which used snowball sampling, included 155 Nigerian construction experts that included architects, builders, quantity surveyors and engineers in the built environment. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which allowed for a thorough evaluation of the proposed relationships as well as industry-specific insights.
Findings
The study's findings validate the conceptual framework established. The results indicate that implementing blockchain across all stages of construction projects has the potential to improve the construction process by 88.2% through its drivers. However, there were no significant relationships found between the barriers to adopting blockchain and the potential application areas in the construction lifecycle.
Research limitations/implications
This research was carried out in the South-western which is one of the six geo-political zones/regions in Nigeria, using a cross-sectional survey method. The study did not investigate the interdependence of the identified categories of drivers and barriers, limiting a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics and interactions influencing blockchain adoption in construction. The study is expected to stimulate further exploration and generate new insights on how blockchain technology (BT) can influence various stages of the construction lifecycle.
Practical implications
The findings will be immensely beneficial to both professionals and practitioners in the Nigerian construction industry in learning about the potential of BT application in improving the construction lifecycle.
Originality/value
This paper developed and assessed a conceptual framework by investigating the interrelationships between the constructs. The findings have important implications for the construction industry, as they offer opportunities to improve the construction process and overall lifecycle. The findings are useful for researchers interested in the potential impact of BT on the construction lifecycle and its wider implications.
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Kizito Ojochenemi Musa, Abdulbariu Ibrahim, Godwin Okumagbe Aigbadon, Ernest Orji Akudo, Obinna Akakuru, Fabian Apeh Akpah, Jacob Bolaji Jimoh, Moses Adegbola and Mu’awiya Baba Aminu
This study aims to employ an integrated approach of geology, aeromagnetic and electrical resistivity techniques to evaluate the potential causes of abortive or low groundwater…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to employ an integrated approach of geology, aeromagnetic and electrical resistivity techniques to evaluate the potential causes of abortive or low groundwater yield in most boreholes.
Design/methodology/approach
The process involved mapping geology and acquiring and processing aeromagnetic and vertical electrical sounding (VES) data. Oasis Montaj software was used for tasks like Reduction to the Equator (RTE), Upward Continuation (UC), Residual Magnetic Anomaly (RMA) and Euler Deconvolution (S. I = 1.0 and S. I = 2.0). VES utilized the Schlumberger array method, and field data underwent iterative analysis using Resist2Win software.
Findings
Total magnetic intensity (TMI) and RMA values range from −209.2 nT/m to 150.4 nT/m and −61.0 nT/m and 20.6 nT/m, respectively. High amplitude magnetic anomalies are observed in the northern and southwestern areas, indicating potential groundwater zones. Depth estimates for SI = 1.0 and 2.0 range from 11.1 m to 76.1 m and 16.4 m to 112.9 m, respectively, indicating varying overburden thickness and rock boundaries. Lineament reveals NE-SW and NW-SE trends, with hydro-lineament density ranging from low to very high. VES data identifies layers with resistivity and thickness values: topsoil (15.5–523.2 Om, 0.4–12.3 m), weathered basement (93.3–1655.7 Om, 19.0–54.7 m), fractured basement aquifer (242.7–9413.0 Om, 20.3–42.7 m) and fresh basement (62.8–935.3 Om).
Practical implications
Maps and conclusion generated from the study will serve as a baseline to solving completely the perennial problem of abortive and low groundwater yield.
Social implications
Insecurity and other vices suffered during the acquisition of data.
Originality/value
The geophysical data correlates with geological mapping, verifying that areas with dense hydro-lineaments like porphyritic granites and granite gneiss are promising aquifers. This suggests that groundwater presence is influenced by structural factors, offering valuable insights for future groundwater exploration in the study area.
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Shweta V. Matey, Dadarao N. Raut, Rajesh B. Pansare and Ravi Kant
Blockchain technology (BCT) can play a vital role in manufacturing industries by providing visibility and real-time transparency. With BCT adoption, manufacturers can achieve…
Abstract
Purpose
Blockchain technology (BCT) can play a vital role in manufacturing industries by providing visibility and real-time transparency. With BCT adoption, manufacturers can achieve higher productivity, better quality, flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The current study aims to prioritize the performance metrics and ranking of enablers that may influence the adoption of BCT in manufacturing industries through a hybrid framework.
Design/methodology/approach
Through an extensive literature review, 4 major criteria with 26 enablers were identified. Pythagorean fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method was used to compute the weights of the enablers and the Pythagorean fuzzy combined compromise solution (Co-Co-So) method was used to prioritize the 17-performance metrics. Sensitivity analysis was then carried out to check the robustness of the developed framework.
Findings
According to the results, data security enablers were the most significant among the major criteria, followed by technology-oriented enablers, sustainability and human resources and quality-related enablers. Further, the ranking of performance metrics shows that data hacking complaints per year, data storage capacity and number of advanced technologies available for BCT are the top three important performance metrics. Framework robustness was confirmed by sensitivity analysis.
Practical implications
The developed framework will contribute to understanding and simplifying the BCT implementation process in manufacturing industries to a significant level. Practitioners and managers may use the developed framework to facilitate BCT adoption and evaluate the performance of the manufacturing system.
Originality/value
This study can be considered as the first attempt to the best of the author’s knowledge as no such hybrid framework combining enablers and performance indicators was developed earlier.
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Aliyyu Abiola Abdulraheem, Agboola Shamsudeen Abdulazeez, Abdulkabir Opeyemi Bello, Mustapha Yusuf Faruq, Abdulhakeem Kolawole Musa and Moshood Olawale Shabi
This study aims to explore the factors influencing the quality of project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry, addressing a critical gap in the existing literature and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the factors influencing the quality of project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry, addressing a critical gap in the existing literature and providing insights for improving construction practices in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The survey gathered data on various factors affecting project quality, while interviews provided contextual understanding and nuanced perspectives from industry professionals.
Findings
This study identifies seven key factors influencing project delivery quality: contractor performance (β = 0.235, p < 0.001), design and materials management (β = 0.180, p < 0.001), documentation and procurement (β = 0.175, p < 0.001), workforce management and skills (β = 0.142, p < 0.001), project management practices (β = 0.153, p < 0.001), budget and financial management (β = 0.139, p < 0.001) and government regulations (β = 0.080, p < 0.001). Contractor performance and design/materials management have the most significant impact, underscoring the need for strong contractor supervision, material standards and efficient design processes. Additionally, effective documentation and procurement are crucial for success, with procurement inefficiencies leading to delays and reduced quality. Workforce competencies also play a major role, as inadequate training and a lack of skilled labour result in construction defects and compromised project outcomes.
Research limitations/implications
Limitations of the study include its focus primarily on industry professionals' perspectives and its limited scope to the Nigerian context. Future research could explore additional stakeholder perspectives and extend the study to other geographical contexts.
Practical implications
The findings offer valuable insights for construction professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders, informing the development of a tailored approach to enhance quality project delivery in Nigeria. By addressing critical factors identified in the study, stakeholders can mitigate risks, improve project outcomes and contribute to the sustainable development of the construction industry.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the existing literature by comprehensively analysing the factors influencing quality project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry. Integrating quantitative and qualitative data provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in ensuring project quality, offering practical implications for industry practitioners and policymakers.
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Abdulkader Zairbani and Senthil Kumar Jaya Prakash
The purpose of this paper is to provide an organizing lens for viewing the distinct contributions to knowledge production from those research communities addressing the impact of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide an organizing lens for viewing the distinct contributions to knowledge production from those research communities addressing the impact of competitive strategy on company performance in general, and the influence of cost leadership and differentiation strategy on organizational performance in detail.
Design/methodology/approach
The research methodology was based on the PRISMA review, and thematic analysis based on an iterative process of open coding was analyzed and then the sample was analyzed by illustrating the research title, objectives, method, data analysis, sample size, variables and country.
Findings
The main factor that influenced the competitive strategy is strategic growth; strategic growth has a significant influence on competitive strategy. Furthermore, competitive strategy will boost firm network, performance measurement and organization behavior. In the same way, the internal goal factor will enhance organizational effectiveness. Also, a differentiation strategy will support management practice factors, strategic positions, product price, product characteristics and company performance.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature by identifying a framework of competitive strategy factors, company performance factors, cost leadership strategy factors, differentiation strategy factors and competitive strategy with global market factors. This study provides a complete picture and description of the resulting body knowledge in competitive strategy and organizational performance.
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Gemechu Hotessa Warie, Elfneh Udessa Bariso and Admassu Tesso Huluka
This study aimed to analyze top management commitment to business performance in the context of coffee processing firms in Guji Zone, Ethiopia.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to analyze top management commitment to business performance in the context of coffee processing firms in Guji Zone, Ethiopia.
Design/methodology/approach
The study was conducted on coffee processing firms in Guji Zone, Ethiopia, using a mixed approach with a descriptive and explanatory design. A systematic, simple random sampling technique was used to draw a sample. A total of 345 respondents were actively involved in the survey. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the data through SPSS-20.
Findings
The results indicate that members of top management in the sector were committed to promoting their business performance. The findings of the study also reveal that top management commitment has significant and positive effects on the overall business performance of coffee processing firms.
Research limitations/implications
The study was limited to the coffee processing industry and generalization of the results to other sectors may be questionable. Similarly, the study was presented using primary data only. Thus, future researchers will be advised to strengthen their findings using the secondary data.
Practical implications
The study’s implications have contributed to theoretical, practical and managerial perspectives. The findings validate and refine existing theories, provide practical insights for coffee processing firms and offer guidance for managerial decision-making and leadership development.
Originality/value
Up to the time of the authors' literature review, no study with a similar topic on coffee processing firms in the Guji Zone was found and it is believed to be the first literature evidence for future researchers.
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Francis Kamewor Tetteh, Benjamin Nyantakyi, Kwame Owusu Kwateng and Hannah Vivian Osei
This study examined the mediation-moderation role of innovation and market dynamism in the association between total quality management (TQM) practices and the performance of…
Abstract
Purpose
This study examined the mediation-moderation role of innovation and market dynamism in the association between total quality management (TQM) practices and the performance of small and medium-scale enterprises' (SMEs') performance with empirical evidence from sub-Saharan Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a questionnaire, the research model developed was tested with responses from 203 owners and managers of SMEs in Ghana. The analyses were done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Smart Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).
Findings
The innovation initiatives partially and fully mediated the relationship between TQM practices and the performance of SMEs. Also, the indirect effect of TQM practices of SMEs on performance through innovation initiatives was negatively moderated by market dynamism.
Practical implications
The study contributes to the TQM literature by validating the indirect and direct relationship between TQM practices and performance in the context of SMEs in a developing region.
Originality/value
This paper presents a novel understanding of the relationship between TQM and SMEs in developing regions of the world. The paper serves as a guide for SME owners and managers to improve the performance of their organizations through TQM practices.
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