Esraa Osama Zayed and Ehab A. Yaseen
Recently, sustainability aspects are gaining importance among supply chain management (SCM) research field, hence this study aims to explore barriers to sustainable supply chain…
Abstract
Purpose
Recently, sustainability aspects are gaining importance among supply chain management (SCM) research field, hence this study aims to explore barriers to sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) implementation in Egyptian industries and the interrelationships among these barriers to provide a structured detailed model for barriers and suggest recommendations to deal with these barriers.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is an empirical study with a descriptive research approach using qualitative methodology. Data were collected through interviewing experts involved in sustainability implementation within supply chain functions. Afterward interpretive structural modeling (ISM) for barriers was conducted to develop a structured model representing possible interrelationships between barriers.
Findings
Findings have reported slight differences among barriers to SSCM implementation in Egyptian industries other than those stated previously. ISM analysis helped in shaping barriers into a detailed structured model where interrelationships among barriers can be clearly defined. Additionally, based on the data collected and the ISM model, this study managed to offer recommendations to deal with these barriers.
Research limitations/implications
Future researches might consider developing ISM analysis for a smaller number of barriers, or focus on each of internal and external barriers individually to minimize ISM analysis complexity and enhance its accuracy. As ISM analysis technique is highly dependent on experts' opinions and experience, validation is highly recommended either by structural equation modeling (SEM) or linear structural relationship approach.
Practical implications
This study provides insights for managers about internal and external barriers to SSCM implementation in Egyptian industries, a detailed structured model for interrelationships among these barriers and recommendations to deal with these barriers.
Originality/value
This study is one of the very first studies to implement ISM for barriers to SSCM on data collected from Egyptian industries. Consequently, it will direct further research focusing on developing strategies or recommendations to overcome these barriers.
Details
Keywords
Ehab Alshamaileh, Mazen Al-Sulaibi, Ahmad Al-Khawaldeh, Mansour H. Almatarneh, Dina El-Sabawi and Aiman Al-Rawajfeh
The current status of nanotechnology research and development in Jordan is analyzed. In recent years, Jordanian institutions demonstrated considerable interest in the development…
Abstract
Purpose
The current status of nanotechnology research and development in Jordan is analyzed. In recent years, Jordanian institutions demonstrated considerable interest in the development and production of nanotechnology. Here the purpose of this paper is to provide detailed information about the status of nanotechnology in Jordan in terms of several factors that influence selectivity in nanotechnology and the number of published peer-reviewed research articles.
Design/methodology/approach
Several factors that influence selectivity in nanotechnology and the number of published peer-reviewed research articles were analyzed. A detailed analysis of the collected data reveals that the number of publications, citations, and patents is highly dependent on the amount of research fund.
Findings
The development in nanotechnology is associated with presence and accessibility of sensitive laboratory equipment. The nanotechnology research output in Jordan is still lower than it should be due to the lack of necessary laboratory infrastructure. This is due to the insufficient funds allocated to scientific research, the restrictive access to available instruments and the bureaucracy of some governmental departments. Compared to some developed countries, Jordan is noticeably behind in developing a nanotechnology system of research and industry. It will take time as well as technical and financial resources in order to achieve an advanced level in the field of nanotechnology in Jordan. Nevertheless, many Jordanian researchers are doing their best and are producing some good research articles.
Research limitations/implications
The many applications to the same approach.
Practical implications
Time and publications’ resources.
Social implications
Peer cooperation.
Originality/value
First comprehensive review ever. A base for researchers and decision makers.