Arulraj Rajendran and Kumarappan Narayanan
This paper aims to optimally plan distributed generation (DG) and capacitor in distribution network by optimizing multiple conflicting operational objectives simultaneously so as…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to optimally plan distributed generation (DG) and capacitor in distribution network by optimizing multiple conflicting operational objectives simultaneously so as to achieve enhanced operation of distribution system. The multi-objective optimization problem comprises three important objective functions such as minimization of total active power loss (Plosstotal), reduction of voltage deviation and balancing of current through feeder sections.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, a hybrid configuration of weight improved particle swarm optimization (WIPSO) and gravitational search algorithm (GSA) called hybrid WIPSO-GSA algorithm is proposed in multi-objective problem domain. To solve multi-objective optimization problem, the proposed hybrid WIPSO-GSA algorithm is integrated with two components. The first component is fixed-sized archive that is responsible for storing a set of non-dominated pareto optimal solutions and the second component is a leader selection strategy that helps to update and identify the best compromised solution from the archive.
Findings
The proposed methodology is tested on standard 33-bus and Indian 85-bus distribution systems. The results attained using proposed multi-objective hybrid WIPSO-GSA algorithm provides potential technical and economic benefits and its best compromised solution outperforms other commonly used multi-objective techniques, thereby making it highly suitable for solving multi-objective problems.
Originality/value
A novel multi-objective hybrid WIPSO-GSA algorithm is proposed for optimal DG and capacitor planning in radial distribution network. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed technique in improved distribution system planning and operation and also in achieving better optimized results than other existing multi-objective optimization techniques.
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Magdy A. Khalaf and Nevien Khourshed
The purpose of this paper is to promote and analytically verify an advanced assessment design to evaluate service quality (SQ) especially in postgraduate higher education.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to promote and analytically verify an advanced assessment design to evaluate service quality (SQ) especially in postgraduate higher education.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopts a quantitative approach through a survey method. A structured questionnaire was designed as a means for collecting data. Data were collected from 182 postgraduate students in an Egyptian higher education university. Data were examined by exploratory factor analysis to pinpoint the main irregularities explained by the extracted factors. Then, confirmatory factor analysis was carried out to filter the ratios and empirically test the assessment efficiency of the developed model.
Findings
The final model consists of 33 items loaded into eight dimensions for measuring performance-based SQ of the postgraduate higher education. The results are satisfactory in terms of unidimensionality, trustworthiness, and validity tests.
Research limitations/implications
Although the empirical results are significant, a comparative study can identify relative strengths and weaknesses of this model.
Practical implications
For improving postgraduate higher education institutions’ quality, this paper highlights some dimensions and attributes that should be considered.
Originality/value
The literature proposes that there is an opportunity to handle SQ from the point of view of postgraduate students covering different contexts to further build a more comprehensive structure specifically for postgraduate higher education SQ. This paper deals with this research gap with analytical confirmation within the context of postgraduate programs in an Egyptian university.
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Naga Vamsi Krishna Jasti, V. Venkateswaran, Srinivas Kota and Kuldip Singh Sangwan
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the evolution of total quality management (TQM) models, frameworks, and tools and techniques in higher education (HE) over the last thirty…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the evolution of total quality management (TQM) models, frameworks, and tools and techniques in higher education (HE) over the last thirty years from 1991 till 2020, based on a literature review
Design/methodology/approach
30 articles from 52 journals were used to perform this detailed literature review. For the detailed analysis, the focus was only on articles related to TQM in higher education and specifically related to models, frameworks and tools and techniques. The study has investigated the growth of research articles, research streams, research methodologies, models and frameworks in the higher education sector and tools and techniques related to those.
Findings
This review addresses the progress and gaps in the application of TQM in HE, including the shift in global research in this area from the USA and Europe to Asia in recent years. The articles have been classified into four research methodologies and two research streams which have been reviewed in detail. The findings include reasons for multiple models/frameworks in HE proposed by researchers over the years and the importance of tools and techniques used in TQM implementation.
Originality/value
This study, which tries to bring a perspective to the main trends in TQM application to higher education wrt models, frameworks, tools and techniques over the last thirty years, is expected to add to the body of knowledge in this area and help future researchers to focus on the relevant areas identified in this paper.
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N. Senthilkumar and A. Arulraj
The purpose of this paper is to develop a new model, namely service quality measurement in higher education in India (SQM‐HEI) for the measurement of service quality in higher…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a new model, namely service quality measurement in higher education in India (SQM‐HEI) for the measurement of service quality in higher educational institutions.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected by means of a structured questionnaire comprising six sections. Section A consists of ten questions pertaining to teaching methodology (TM). Sections B consists of five questions pertaining to environmental change in study factor (ECSF). Section C consists of eight questions relating to disciplinary measures taken by the institutions. Section D consists of five questions related to the placement‐related activities and in part E two questions provide an overall rating of the service quality, satisfaction level. Finally, in part F 13 questions pertaining to student respondent's demographic profile information were given. All the items in Sections A‐E were presented as statements on the questionnaire, with the same rating scale used throughout, and measured on a seven‐point, Likert‐type. In addition to the main scale addressing individual items, respondents were asked in Section E to provide an overall rating of the service quality, satisfaction level. For conducting an empirical study, data were collected from final‐year students of higher educational institutions across Tamil Nadu. The sampling procedure used for the study was stratified random sampling. The stratification has been done based on the region Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and nature of institution, government university, government college, aided college, private university and self‐financing college. While selecting the institutions from each category, non‐probabilistic convenience and judgmental sampling technique were used. However, within such institutions, the respondents were selected by stratified random sampling.
Findings
The SQM‐HEI‐mediated model argued that the placement is the better interactions of the quality of education in India. The model reveals that the quality of education is based on the best faculty (TM), the excellent physical resources (ECSF), a wide range of disciplines (DA) which paved the diverse student body and to improve the employability of the graduates (placement as mediating factor) coming out of the higher educational institutions in India. The above model proves that the placement is the mediated factor for various dimensions of quality education. SQM‐HEI model would help in identify three service areas to be focused in the higher educational institutions for improving the quality of . These three dimensions of quality correlated between the sub‐dimension variables and it is very necessary for improving the quality of higher education in India. The educationist says that, education is a change of behavior of students. Hence, the higher educational institutions should come forward to adapt the sub‐dimensions of quality variables to enhance the outcome of education.
Originality/value
The model described in this paper will assist academic institutions when mapping the level of service quality and thereby enhance the same.
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Nur Asnawi and Nina Dwi Setyaningsih
The purpose of this paper is to identify the dimensions of service quality in the context of Islamic higher education (IHE); explain the determinant dimensions of overall…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify the dimensions of service quality in the context of Islamic higher education (IHE); explain the determinant dimensions of overall perceived service quality (PSQ) according to students; and explains the difference in the level of quality felt by students in each dimension based on gender, year of study and level of education of students in Indonesia.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey method from 384 questionnaires collected from students in four major cities in Indonesia; 378 questionnaires were declared valid for explanatory analysis using SEM-PLS and t-test.
Findings
The new model called Islamic Higher Education Service Quality (i-HESQUAL) with seven dimensions of quality that are considered important by students i.e. teaching capability and competence of academic staff (TCC), reliability of service (ROS), reputation of university (REP), responsiveness of employees (RES), empathy of employees (EMP), internalization of Islamic values (IIV) and library service support (LSS). The dimensions that influence the overall PSQ are the IIV and LSS. In addition, students based on the year of study have differences in assessing the dimensions of quality, namely the dimensions of TCC, ROS, IIV, LSS, while the level of education also has differences, especially on the dimensions of ROS, REP and LSS.
Research limitations/implications
This research was only carried out at four public Islamic universities, for that there is a need for further research in the form of longitudinal studies with different geographical samples e.g. in the perspective of private universities to generalize research results.
Practical implications
The i-HESQUAL dimensions can be used by IHE managers to measure their performance according to students' perspectives. The two dimensions that determine the overall PSQ should be IHE's strategic advantages and the dimensions that do not affect the overall PSQ are feedback to identify weaknesses.
Originality/value
These findings contribute to PSQ research in the context of IHE, which operates on the values and culture that surrounds it (Islamic culture), while most of the previous research was conducted in the context of developed countries with a secular education system.
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The purpose of this paper is to understand the meaning and operationalisation of quality of service (QoS) in the context of higher education institutions (HEIs).
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand the meaning and operationalisation of quality of service (QoS) in the context of higher education institutions (HEIs).
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review of 167 articles published in various peer-reviewed journals between 1990 and 2019 is performed.
Findings
The findings reveal that around 40 dimensions have been used to conceptualise QoS in HEIs. Reliability followed by responsiveness, tangibility, empathy, assurance, programme design, academic and non-academic processes, reputation and facilities have received the highest attention. The most popular approach is empirical, and surveys and single-context studies are the most popular methods. The United Kingdom (UK) leads research on quality in HEIs, followed by the United States of America (USA) and India.
Research limitations/implications
This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by presenting a comprehensive synthesis of articles addressing QoS in HEIs.
Practical implications
Policymakers and academic administrators can use the findings of this study to conceptualise student satisfaction along the educational value chain. The discussion on HEIs’ and students’ perspectives will help policymakers create teaching excellence.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by presenting a unified synthesis of various strands of the literature on QoS in HEIs.
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Precious Agbeko D. Mattah, Albert Justice Kwarteng and Justice Mensah
The purpose of this paper is to explore the indicators of service quality from the perspective of graduating students in a public university in Ghana. The identified indicators of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the indicators of service quality from the perspective of graduating students in a public university in Ghana. The identified indicators of service quality were rated and the extent of satisfaction among the students was determined. Another issue explored was whether the satisfaction among the respondents inures to their loyalty to the university.
Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire was designed, pre-tested and administered to 500 graduating students, and 482 of them were returned for analyses. Principal component analysis was used to determine the indicators of service quality. Independent sample t-test and z-test for proportions were used to compare mean scores and proportions of respondents on various variables, respectively.
Findings
The results revealed three indicators of service quality which include quality of academic services and facilities, quality of lecturers and quality of academic programs. Graduands were satisfied with academic services, lecturers and programs. They were, however, not satisfied with the quality of facilities. Majority of the respondents will remain associated with the university as a result of their satisfaction with the services, lecturers as well as programs of the university. It is recommended that the university works assiduously on improving infrastructural facilities to help boost the confidence of the students in the university.
Originality/value
This paper argues that what constitutes quality service vary from one academic institution to the other. It is, therefore, needful for institutions to determine from the perspective of their students what may indicate quality service.
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Luciene Eberle, Gabriel Sperandio Milan and Eric Dorion
The purpose of this paper is to identify and assess the perception of customers (students) about the services provided by Brazilian universities, through the identification of the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify and assess the perception of customers (students) about the services provided by Brazilian universities, through the identification of the attributes that impact on customer satisfaction and the dimensions or factors related to quality in services. This may generate a better management and seek more competitive edge in graduate courses.
Design/methodology/approach
The research method was developed in two phases: the first one is characterized by a qualitative and exploratory approach and the second one as a quantitative research of conclusive character. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were implemented with a semi-structured approach. A survey was performed in the final phase and a multivariate statistical technique was used for the data analysis.
Findings
The results echoed in a set of 40 analyzed attributes (variables), distributed in six dimensions of quality in services, in the graduate courses (second cycle) of administration, which could serve as a basis for orienting other Brazilian universities.
Research limitations/implications
The data analysis did not include crossed techniques that could have enriched the analysis process. Another limitation that can be pointed out is the fact of having only adopted a factor analysis method to identify the dimensions of service quality that influence customer satisfaction (students). In addition, data collection was cross-sectional, which does not allow any change verification of the respondents’ perception.
Practical implications
Taking into account the current scenario of increased competition between the Brazilian universities to attract and retain students, the knowledge of student’s preferences and the dimensions of quality service can effectively contribute in the development of strategies and actions for an effective graduate programs management (second cycle), and for their consolidation in the Brazilian market.
Social implications
The development of more adequate courses, in terms of level of quality and relevancy.
Originality/value
The identification of the attributes that represent the quality dimensions, related to the services provided, can assist any Brazilian university to prioritize its strategies and actions and to contribute to excellence in education. In addition, it may encourage customer retention (students) and consolidate its market position. Moreover, the study can contribute as a source of empirical data for transferability and benchmark strategies in other contexts for Brazilian universities.
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Namish Mehta, Nilesh Diwakar and Rajeev Arya
The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework for designing a multiple performance measurement tool for evaluating, comparing and benchmarking the working of engineering…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework for designing a multiple performance measurement tool for evaluating, comparing and benchmarking the working of engineering educational institutes in a group based on total quality management (TQM) criteria and performance measurement criterion, respectively.
Design/methodology/approach
Proposed framework is based on fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) which takes in to account the fuzziness of human opinion for realistic outcome and generalization of the results. Based on the proposed framework a case study was conducted on engineering institutes of central India for collecting data and analyzing the current practices followed in these institutes. A relationship among TQM implementation criterion was developed, their respective weights derived and then institutes were ranked.
Findings
It was found that the rank of institutions based on both the criterion is same, which indicates that the institutes having better TQM implementation have better performance.
Research limitations/implications
The research in this paper is limited to Indian scenario; studies in other countries and sectors may be conducted to compare the results obtained.
Practical implications
The results will help policy makers in identifying institutions having poor performance in the region.
Originality/value
The paper is navel in its attempt to provide a model based on TQM criteria for evaluating the working of engineering educational institutes in a group in terms of their relative weightage and benchmark.
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Gustavo Bagni, Josadak Astorino Marçola, Edmundo Escrivão Filho, Marcelo Seido Nagano and Luiz Philippsen
The purpose of this study is to propose a comprehensive model of a hybrid organizational structure through action research, aiming to fill a gap in the literature on…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to propose a comprehensive model of a hybrid organizational structure through action research, aiming to fill a gap in the literature on organizational structure implementation. The focus is on designing a model that integrates structural elements (centralization and specialization) and a non-structural element (competence), emphasizing operational efficiency and innovation capacity. The study was conducted in the production scheduling and control department (PSC) of a manufacturing company, with quantitative results demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed model.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employs an action research approach to develop a hybrid organizational structure model in three phases comprising ten steps. It focuses on integrating structured elements like centralization and specialization, alongside a non-structural component, competence. The research was conducted within the PSC of a manufacturing firm. This methodological framework facilitates the systematic design and implementation of the organizational structure model, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of its impact on performance indicators.
Findings
The quantitative results of the action research revealed a 3% increase in Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) and a 4% improvement in On Time/In Full (OTIF) performance metrics. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the hybrid organizational structure model implemented in the PSC. The structured elements (centralization and specialization) combined with the non-structural element (competence) contributed to enhancing operational efficiency and meeting production goals, underscoring the significance of aligning organizational structure with strategic objectives for improved performance in dynamic competitive environments.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature by addressing the gap in research on implementing organizational structures. It offers a novel approach through action research, proposing a comprehensive model of a hybrid organizational structure. By integrating structured elements (centralization and specialization) with a non-structural element (competence), the model enhances operational efficiency and innovation capacity. The quantitative findings demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in improving performance metrics, emphasizing its value in guiding organizational design processes. This research underscores the importance of aligning organizational structures with strategic objectives to foster competitiveness and adaptability in dynamic business environments.