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Article
Publication date: 1 April 2006

Sakun Boon‐itt and Himangshu Paul

The purpose of this study is to provide a conceptual framework and a scale development process, in order to address the reliability and validity in supply chain integration and…

2766

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a conceptual framework and a scale development process, in order to address the reliability and validity in supply chain integration and environmental uncertainty constructs; in an effort to develop and revalidate scale metrics in different contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this study were collected for a small pre‐test survey in the Thai automotive industry. The measurement scales were pre‐assessed using the Q‐sort method. In addition, a preliminary test for predictive validity was evaluated using correlation analysis.

Findings

This study established an explanatory model and a corresponding instrument to conduct future research in supply chain integration. Dimensions/constructs, including supply chain integration, environmental uncertainty, and firm competitive capability are operationally defined in terms of their scale development process.

Practical implications

This study will provide a measurement scale for supply chain integration and uncertainty constructs. This will allow researchers to be confident and bring new insights when exploring supply chain integration under differing operational conditions.

Originality/value

The findings address additional steps required towards improved methodological aspects in terms of how to prevalidate and develop a measurement scale in various constructs within alternative domains.

Details

Management Research News, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0140-9174

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Article
Publication date: 29 February 2008

Anupam Das, Himangshu Paul and Fredric W. Swierczek

To provide reliable and valid constructs of total quality management (TQM) and a measurement instrument in the context of manufacturing industries in newly industrialized…

3372

Abstract

Purpose

To provide reliable and valid constructs of total quality management (TQM) and a measurement instrument in the context of manufacturing industries in newly industrialized countries for evaluating the TQM implementation process and to target improvement areas.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a review of TQM literature and expert opinions, ten TQM constructs (nine implementation constructs and one outcome construct) were identified. A detailed questionnaire was developed with the items for ten TQM constructs along with the questions on quality performance and information about the respondents. The questionnaire was then sent to randomly selected ISO 9000 certified manufacturing companies in Thailand. Out of 1,000 questionnaires sent, 275 usable samples were returned giving a response rate of 27.5 percent. Based on the data from the survey, exploratory factor analysis was done to ensure that items in each scale reflected sufficiently the scope of each construct. Internal consistency analysis was done to ensure the reliability of the constructs. Criterion‐related validity and construct validity were evaluated statistically to ensure that the set of measures correctly represents the constructs, and the degree to which they are free from any systematic or non‐random error.

Findings

This paper identified ten reliable and valid TQM constructs. Nine are implementation constructs and an outcome construct. These constructs have a total of 52 items, fewer compared to other instruments available in the TQM literature, with higher reliability compared to them.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to time and resource constraints, this study was conducted only in the manufacturing sector of Thailand and hence generalization is somewhat limited. This study could be extended to the service sector in Thailand and the same sector in other countries.

Practical implications

The instrument presented will provide Thailand's manufacturing companies with a practical understanding in the area of TQM implementation. Moreover, researchers and practitioners from other newly industrialized countries may be able to use these constructs in future TQM research. Compared to other instruments, this instrument will be easier to administer and the response rate may be better.

Originality/value

Quality/production managers will be able to use the instrument to evaluate their TQM implementation initiatives and identify problem areas requiring improvement. Researchers will be able to use this instrument to enhance understanding of the process and to develop applicable TQM theory.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 1 October 2005

Nilubon Sivabrovornvatana, Sununta Siengthai, Donyaprueth Krairit and Himangshu Paul

This article aims to explore the relationship between technology and quality management for enhancing Thai hospital service quality.

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Abstract

Purpose

This article aims to explore the relationship between technology and quality management for enhancing Thai hospital service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the findings of an exploratory study that investigates service quality from the customer and service provider perception. In‐depth interviews were conducted with respondents in Thai hospitals. The interviews explored service‐related factors that patients and service providers perceive to be important for hospital services. The first interview group consisted of professionals as internal customers in direct contact with external customers, while the second group consisted of external customers of the same hospitals.

Findings

The study's outcomes clearly suggest factors that make significant contribution to service quality. These factors can be categorized according to five SERVQUAL dimensions (reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, and tangibility), although some factors required slightly different interpretation.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that hospitals can develop an appropriate approach to their advantage, which can yield sustainable improvement in service quality as perceived by patients and professionals. Hospitals can make better quality decisions based on structured measurement and knowledge. It is recommended that managers apply this knowledge for successful implementation of activities related to service quality in their organizations.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 18 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0952-6862

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Article
Publication date: 31 August 2023

Neelam Bansal, Mala Tandon and Himangshu Das

The main purpose of the study to identify the importance of computer devices in vocational studies for person with disabilities (PwDs) are as follows: This study aims to observe…

167

Abstract

Purpose

The main purpose of the study to identify the importance of computer devices in vocational studies for person with disabilities (PwDs) are as follows: This study aims to observe the role of computer training in vocational training of a PwD. This study plays an important role in the vocational training of a PwD. With the help of ICT curriculum, effective vocational training is possible to help the trainee, the parents, the professional, the employer and the community easily. It builds awareness about career and employment options for individuals with disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The present investigation is descriptive research. The study has divided in to two phases such as—in the first phase of the study, the researcher has developed the tool for demographic data of PwDs. The tool is described as depth in following: There are two tools, the first tool had 16 different items related to demographic information of PwDs and the second one had 18 different items are related to computer skills and ability. The second questionnaire was a close-ended questionnaire. It was developed based upon the VAPS, BASAL-MR questionnaire developed by NIMH have questions on disability condition, management, policies, training and services available for PwDs. There are some basic areas in the tool are related to personal, academic, communication, vocational and recreational skills. The researcher had sent the questionnaire to the seven expert members related to disability for modifications. The researcher had modified and improved the tool as per expert advice. The role of the researcher in this research was to pose the research question and create conducive atmosphere to discourse, in order to encourage the participants to give the answer correctly. The researcher had prepared findings and a conclusion on the basis of the score obtained by PwDs. For the second phase of research, the researcher conducted interview with PwDs to assist the information related to computer skill training and importance in vocational potential for PwDs Participants: The sample selected for the study was 50 PwDs participants including 36 female and 14 male participants with benchmark disability (above 17 years of age) enrolled in the vocational unit in Uttar Pradesh. Purposive sampling was used for sample selection. Procedure: At the beginning, the investigator met with the concerned authority of the respective institutions for identifying the PwDs. And researcher had also contacted to parents and PwD for the present study. The data were also gathered by interviewing PwDs with help of their parents and PwDs. The investigator interviewed them by the help of self-made tools. On the whole, 50 individuals with disability were interview for present study.

Findings

The PwD mostly depends upon their family due to lack of job or livelihood skills. Anyone can obtain a job/business with help of vocational training or job training. In order to live an independent life, with social surroundings, basic vocational skills is desirable. PwDs is able to hold gainful employment or manage their daily financial activities with computer skills easily. ICT skills are very easy and useful to reading and writing, understand decision-making, logical thinking, problem-solving and so on.

Research limitations/implications

The future research may guide parents and service providers, belonging from different geographical areas how to train the PwD. The study will indicate researches to guide parents to select appropriate job options for a PwD. Resources related to computer training for PwDs are very limited. In future, the research may conducted in specific disability for better output.

Practical implications

This study plays an important role in the vocational training of a PwD. Computer-based training model is easily implementable, cost-effective and accessible all over India. With help of new technology, the vocational training becomes systematic and structured for PwDs. Individual and group guidance is available for large and small groups all over India for PwDs. Computer-based instructions are clear and easy instructions for PwDs, and it avoids the unnecessary confusion of parents regarding the vocational training programmes of their PwDs. Computer-based vocational training is helpful for better employment options for PwD.

Social implications

The attitudinal barrier will be reduced with computer training. The study will help in the training of the PwDs in different job roles. Computer training in the vocational curriculum will make the training part easy for trainers and PwDs as per his requirements. There are many organizational barriers to technology adoption are particularly problematic given the growing demands and perceived benefits among students about using technology to learn.

Originality/value

This paper adds new and significant information since it focuses on a specific group of persons who are disabled and the significance of using technology in learning. In conclusion, the findings in this study have valuable implications for PwDs, special educators and parents. This study creates effective in increasing positive atmosphere for PwDs in society and increases inclusion at vocational training centres. Therefore, it is important for technology base vocational training and education.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. 16 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

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