Catarina Grillo, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, Carla S.E. Marques and João J. Ferreira
The 2008 global financial crisis showed that the ability to innovate is a key management skill and that approaches to assessing the innovation capability of small- and…
Abstract
Purpose
The 2008 global financial crisis showed that the ability to innovate is a key management skill and that approaches to assessing the innovation capability of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need to be as realistic as possible. This study aims to address the latter practical need through a sociotechnical approach.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a combined use of cognitive mapping and the Decision EXpert (DEX) technique, and grounded on the insights generated by a panel of SME managers and entrepreneurs in two intensive group meetings, a knowledge-based assessment system for evaluating SMEs’ innovation capability was created, tested and validated.
Findings
The knowledge-based assessment system identified the most innovative SMEs in a sample of companies. The “plus-minus-1” and dominance analyses carried out provided further support for the results.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed system is extremely versatile but process-oriented and idiosyncratic in nature, meaning that extrapolations to other contexts need to be done with due caution.
Practical implications
The panel of SME decision makers agreed that the system improves the current methods used to evaluate SMEs’ innovation capability, contributing to a more informed perspective on management issues. The panel members also noted that the proposed system functions as a learning mechanism, facilitating the development of well-focused suggestions for improvements SMEs can make.
Originality/value
The integrated use of cognitive maps and rule-base decisions contributes to a better understanding of how to assess SMEs’ innovation capability. No prior work reporting the integrated use of these two techniques in this study context has been found.
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Sara M. Martins, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, João J. M. Ferreira and Carla S.E. Marques
The prosthodontics sector is facing major challenges because of scientific and technological advances that imply a clearer definition of lines of action and decision making…
Abstract
Purpose
The prosthodontics sector is facing major challenges because of scientific and technological advances that imply a clearer definition of lines of action and decision making processes. Measuring quality of service in this sector is a complex decision problem since the perceptions of three main players need to be considered: patients, dentists and dental technicians. This study sought to develop an artificial-intelligence-based (AI-based) method for assessing service quality in the dental prosthesis sector.
Design/methodology/approach
Using strategic options development and analysis (SODA), which is grounded on cognitive mapping, and the measuring attractiveness by a categorical based evaluation technique (MACBETH), a constructivist decision support system was designed to facilitate the assessment of service quality in the dental prosthesis sector. The system was tested, and the results were validated both by the members of an expert panel and by the vice-president of the Portuguese association of dental prosthesis technicians.
Findings
The methodological process developed in this study is extremely versatile and its practical application facilitated the development of an empirically robust evaluation model in this study context. Specifically, the profile analyses carried out in actual clinics allowed the cases in which improvements are needed to be identified.
Originality/value
Although already applied in the fields of AI and decision making, no prior work reporting the use of SODA and MACBETH for assessing service quality in the prosthodontics sector has been found.
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Daniela C. Silva, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, Alexandra Milici, João J.M. Ferreira and Neuza C.M.Q.F. Ferreira
In light of the challenges and opportunities posed by globalization and technological advancements, this study aims to develop a decision-support system to assist companies in…
Abstract
Purpose
In light of the challenges and opportunities posed by globalization and technological advancements, this study aims to develop a decision-support system to assist companies in identifying, structuring and prioritizing variables influencing their transformation and adaptation processes to Society 5.0.
Design/methodology/approach
The research employs a methodological approach focused on knowledge creation through expert discussions involving diverse backgrounds. Cognitive mapping and interpretive structural modeling (ISM) guide the process, allowing for the integration of subjective elements into the analysis system while ensuring objectivity through ISM. The methodology involves structuring the decision problem, identifying and ranking key factors and evaluating their cause-and-effect relationships.
Findings
The analysis underscores the significance of technology and external factors compared to other areas of interest within the model. Consequently, the study emphasizes the necessity for companies to pay special attention to these types of factors during their transformation processes.
Research limitations/implications
While the study provides valuable insights, the reliance on expert discussions may introduce biases or overlook certain perspectives. Additionally, the findings may not be universally applicable and may require customization based on specific organizational contexts or industries. However, the proposed decision-support system offers a practical tool for companies seeking successful adaptation to Society 5.0.
Originality/value
This study provides a novel approach to addressing the challenges posed by globalization and technological advancements. It presents a valuable resource for organizations striving to adapt effectively in the evolving socioeconomic landscape.
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Wanderson Ferreira dos Santos, Ayrton Ribeiro Ferreira and Sergio Persival Baroncini Proença
The present paper aims to explore a computational homogenisation procedure to investigate the full geometric representation of yield surfaces for isotropic porous ductile media…
Abstract
Purpose
The present paper aims to explore a computational homogenisation procedure to investigate the full geometric representation of yield surfaces for isotropic porous ductile media. The effects of cell morphology and imposed boundary conditions are assessed. The sensitivity of the yield surfaces to the Lode angle is also investigated in detail.
Design/methodology/approach
The microscale of the material is modelled by the concept of Representative Volume Element (RVE) or unit cell, which is numerically simulated through three-dimensional finite element analyses. Numerous loading conditions are considered to create complete yield surfaces encompassing high, intermediate and low triaxialities. The influence of cell morphology on the yield surfaces is assessed considering a spherical cell with spherical void and a cubic RVE with spherical void, both under uniform strain boundary condition. The use of spherical cell is interesting as preferential directions in the effective behaviour are avoided. The periodic boundary condition, which favours strain localization, is imposed on the cubic RVE to compare the results. Small strains are assumed and the cell matrix is considered as a perfect elasto-plastic material following the von Mises yield criterion.
Findings
Different morphologies for the cell imply in different yield conditions for the same load situations. The yield surfaces in correspondence to periodic boundary condition show significant differences compared to those obtained by imposing uniform strain boundary condition. The stress Lode angle has a strong influence on the geometry of the yield surfaces considering low and intermediate triaxialities.
Originality/value
The exhaustive computational study of the effects of cell morphologies and imposed boundary conditions fills a gap in the full representation of the flow surfaces. The homogenisation-based strategy allows us to further investigate the influence of the Lode angle on the yield surfaces.
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Joana M. Gonçalves, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, João J.M. Ferreira and Luís M.C. Farinha
Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have become increasingly important in national and international markets because they contribute to the development of local and…
Abstract
Purpose
Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have become increasingly important in national and international markets because they contribute to the development of local and national economies. SMEs often face serious challenges when competing with multinational companies. The purpose of this paper is to develop a method for assessing SMEs’ competitiveness.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a constructivist epistemology, this study makes an integrated use of cognitive mapping and the measuring attractiveness by a categorical-based evaluation technique (MACBETH). To this end, face-to-face sessions were conducted with a panel of entrepreneurs and senior managers who deal with the challenges of maintaining SME competitiveness every day. The proposed assessment system was tested and validated by the panel members.
Findings
The methodological processes adopted in this study provide promising results for decision makers seeking to identify the most competitive SMEs. Specifically, the results emphasize, among other points, the importance of innovation and the human dimension to gaining competitive advantages.
Research limitations/implications
The evaluation system developed in this study is extremely versatile and confirms the usefulness of integrating cognitive mapping and MACBETH to facilitate evaluations of SME competitiveness. However, due to its idiosyncratic and process-oriented nature, generalizations need to be done with caution.
Practical implications
The proposed method can be valuable to researchers seeking to develop mechanisms for evaluating SMEs’ entrepreneurial performance and include specialized know-how and sensemaking in organizational decision-making processes.
Originality/value
The integrated use of cognitive maps and MACBETH contributes to a better understanding of how to assess SMEs’ competitiveness. No prior work reporting the use of this dual methodology in this study context has been found.
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Keywords
Bernardo M.S. Castela, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, João J.M. Ferreira and Carla S.E. Marques
The aftermath of the recent financial crisis has shown that the ability to innovate is a vital management skill and that the methodologies used to evaluate innovation capability…
Abstract
Purpose
The aftermath of the recent financial crisis has shown that the ability to innovate is a vital management skill and that the methodologies used to evaluate innovation capability within small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should be as holistic and integrative as possible. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue through the combined use of cognitive mapping and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP).
Design/methodology/approach
Cognitive mapping and multiple criteria decision analysis have proved over the years to be effective in handling a wide range of complex decision problems. Following a socio-technical approach, a non-parametric method of evaluating SME innovation capability – based on the results of group meetings with a panel of information technology entrepreneurs and SME chief executive officers – was created, tested and validated.
Findings
The methodological processes adopted in this study provide promising results for decision makers seeking to identify the most innovative SMEs. Furthermore, the sensitivity analyses carried out also supported the findings.
Research limitations/implications
This study confirms the usefulness of integrating cognitive mapping and the AHP to facilitate evaluations of SME innovation capability. However, due to the process-oriented nature of the research, extrapolations without proper adjustments are not recommended.
Practical implications
The panel members who participated in this study consider the proposal extremely versatile and see great potential for further applications in the measurement of SME innovation capability.
Originality/value
The combined use of cognitive mapping and the AHP offers a holistic and well-informed perspective on the issue in question. The authors know of no prior work reporting this approach in the same research context.
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Margarida P. Santos, Fernando A. F. Ferreira, Neuza C. M. Q. F. Ferreira, João J. M. Ferreira and Ieva Meidutė-Kavaliauskienė
Gazelle companies are characterized by rapid growth in a short time. Identifying the determinants of this exponential expansion is important as these firms have a significant…
Abstract
Purpose
Gazelle companies are characterized by rapid growth in a short time. Identifying the determinants of this exponential expansion is important as these firms have a significant impact on the economy. They generate increased employment and investment by investors interested in new opportunities. Previous studies have failed to reach a consensus about what fosters high growth in gazelle companies as each firm’s geographical, political and economic context is different. The present research uses cognitive mapping and interpretive structural modeling (ISM) to overcome the limitations of prior investigations and identify factors that can potentially accelerate growth in gazelle companies.
Design/methodology/approach
Two sessions were held with an expert panel with knowledge about and experience with these firms. In the first session, data were collected to create a group cognitive map, while the second meeting comprised ISM-based analyses of the high-growth determinants identified and the causal relationships between them. A final consolidation session was held to discuss the results with two members of the Committee for Central Region Coordination and Development (i.e. Comissão de Coordenação e Desenvolvimento Regional do Centro – a public entity that grants gazelle awards in Portugal).
Findings
The analysis system created was tested, and the results demonstrate that the dual methodology used can increase our understanding of the dynamics of high-growth determinants and lead to more informed and potentially better evaluations of gazelle companies. Indeed, once high-growth determinants in gazelle companies are understood, this information can help other firms implement the same business model to achieve similarly rapid growth. The strengths and shortcomings of this new structured analysis model are also analyzed.
Originality/value
The authors know of no prior work reporting the integrated use of cognitive mapping and ISM in this study context.
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Keywords
Francisco Duarte, Adelino Ferreira and Paulo Fael
This paper aims to deal with the development of a software tool to simulate and study vehicle – road interaction (VRI) to quantify the forces induced and energy released from…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to deal with the development of a software tool to simulate and study vehicle – road interaction (VRI) to quantify the forces induced and energy released from vehicles to the road pavement, in different vehicle motion scenarios, and the energy absorbed by the road surface, speed reducers or a specific energy harvester surface or device. The software tool also enables users to quantify the energetic efficiency of the process.
Design/methodology/approach
Existing software tools were analysed and its limitations were identified in terms of performing energetic analysis on the interaction between the vehicle and the road pavement elements, such as speed reducers or energy harvest devices. The software tool presented in this paper intends to overcome those limitations and precisely quantify the energy transfer.
Findings
Different vehicle models and VRI models were evaluated, allowing to conclude about each model precision: bicycle car model has a 60 per cent higher precision when compared with quarter-car model, and contact patch analysis model has a 67 per cent higher precision than single force analysis model. Also, a technical study was performed for different equipment surface shapes and displacements, concluding that these variables have a great influence on the energy released by the vehicle and on the energy harvested by the equipment surface.
Originality/value
The developed software tool allows to study VRI with a higher precision than existing tools, especially when energetic analyses are performed and when speed reduction or energy harvesting devices are applied on the pavement.
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Ana Luísa A. Vaz, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, Leandro F. Pereira, Ricardo J.C. Correia and Audrius Banaitis
The concept of smart city has recently become more topical in academic and policy discussions. This idea is considered a complex, non-consensual subject since its definition has…
Abstract
Purpose
The concept of smart city has recently become more topical in academic and policy discussions. This idea is considered a complex, non-consensual subject since its definition has not yet been agreed upon by most authors in the relevant fields. The need to identify and measure smart city indicators has also given rise to many different evaluation procedures. However, the available frameworks have yet to overcome challenges in structuring and measuring all the evaluation parameters of the cities in question. Thus, methods still need to be developed and applied that can structure criteria used to assess smart city success.
Design/methodology/approach
This study sought to show cognitive mapping's tangible usefulness as an expedient tool for strategic analysis, using smart cities as a complex object of study. To this end, various cognitive maps were constructed and compared using the Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA) approach.
Findings
Cognitive mapping's advantages and limitations in the strategic visualization research context are analyzed and discussed.
Originality/value
The authors know of no prior work reporting comparative analysis of this methodological approach in the same research context.
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Keywords
Jéssica C.M. Simões, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, Marta Peris-Ortiz and João J.M. Ferreira
Capital restrictions normally exist in the creation of a startup, requiring investors to analyze funding alternatives in a highly competitive climate. Although different types of…
Abstract
Purpose
Capital restrictions normally exist in the creation of a startup, requiring investors to analyze funding alternatives in a highly competitive climate. Although different types of incentives to support startups exist, these incentives are only available to those companies that fulfill the requirements of the funding program to which they have applied. Due to social and economic changes introduced by the digital economy, however, existing mechanisms for assessing the potential growth of startups are scarce, outdated or simply incomplete, distorting the results of such evaluations.
Design/methodology/approach
Evaluating business opportunities and how to exploit them are critical activities for an entrepreneur. This study sought to address this issue through the combined use of cognitive mapping and the Decision EXpert (DEX) technique. Assuming a constructivist stance, the study brought together a panel of experienced entrepreneurs and business investors to identify and articulate the criteria to be considered in the evaluation and classification of startups.
Findings
The evaluation system created in this study was tested, and the results were validated by the expert panel on a collective basis, demonstrating that the dual methodology used can increase our understanding of the decision problem at hand and lead to more informed and potentially better evaluations of the potential growth of startups.
Originality/value
The authors know of no prior work reporting the integrated use of cognitive mapping and DEX in this study context.