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Article
Publication date: 30 October 2018

Rateb Sweis, Alireza Moarefi, Mahmood Hosseini Amiri, Soad Moarefi and Rawan Saleh

The international energy agency states that the world’s primary energy needs are expected to grow to 55 per cent until 2030. Therefore, oil and gas industry as the main energy…

916

Abstract

Purpose

The international energy agency states that the world’s primary energy needs are expected to grow to 55 per cent until 2030. Therefore, oil and gas industry as the main energy source will be more crucial where building or advancing new capacities is required. Because the reports highlight the delay as a recurring problem, thereby, more in-depth investigation to find out the main contributing causes is needed.

Design/methodology/approach

Root cause analysis (RCA) was applied to identify, rank, analysis and categorize the main sources of this problem.

Findings

Based on RCA procedure; Pareto analysis showed that 84.7 per cent of the delay is because: the radar chart indicated no difference in perception of the participants regarding the importance of the root causes, correlation analysis suggested strong relationship among the participants and the cause-and-effect diagram emphasized more on operational, human and equipment categories, which in total account for 51.86 per cent of the delay.

Originality/value

The risk planners of large-scale projects can consider these root causes as the main items to analysis, monitor and control, as they are vitally important for project success.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

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Article
Publication date: 29 November 2018

Neven Androwis, Rateb J. Sweis, Ali Tarhini, Alireza Moarefi and Mahmood Hosseini Amiri

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between total quality management practices and the organizational performance in the Jordanian construction chemicals…

2025

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between total quality management practices and the organizational performance in the Jordanian construction chemicals companies.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, ten constructs were used to measure TQM practices, whereas six constructs were used to measure the organizational performance. A total of 160 questionnaires were distributed to 28 companies. Of these 131 questionnaires were completed and used for the analysis, representing a response rate of 81.9 percent.

Findings

Analysis has shown that TQM practices positively affect the organizational performance, with a significant value for top management commitment, customer focus, supplier management, process control and continuous improvement.

Research limitations/implications

Results were based on perceptual data provided by participants working in different sectors of the organization, which may not provide a clear picture. It would be appropriate to consider collecting information from several stakeholders such as customers and suppliers. Willingness of respondents and delivering data within time were a big challenge though efforts were made to guarantee the confidentiality of the respondents.

Practical implications

Results from this research points out that TQM is considered as a key-contributing factor to firm’s survival. It also provides empirical support that TQM implementation in manufacturing organizations contributes to the performance and survival of such organizations. This research also provides an understanding of the dynamic role of TQM practices that would help managers pay attention to the fundamental practices that have a direct impact on the firms’ performance. This will help the organizations to dedicate efforts and allocate resources to get the best long-term outcomes and to figure out their strengths and weaknesses to develop and implement a new strategy to enhance their competitive position.

Originality/value

Construction sector in Jordan is a competitive sector. Therefore, quality in such industry is vital. Many companies in Jordan have much interest in implementing TQM practices. However, research efforts related to this field are rare. No research papers investigating the relationship between TQM practices and performance in Jordanian construction chemicals companies have been found. This research, therefore, seeks to examine the relationship between TQM practices and the construction chemicals firms’ performance in Jordan.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 25 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 24 September 2019

Farman Afzal, Shao Yunfei, Mubasher Nazir and Saad Mahmood Bhatti

In the past decades, artificial intelligence (AI)-based hybrid methods have been increasingly applied in construction risk management practices. The purpose of this paper is to…

7745

Abstract

Purpose

In the past decades, artificial intelligence (AI)-based hybrid methods have been increasingly applied in construction risk management practices. The purpose of this paper is to review and compile the current AI methods used for cost-risk assessment in the construction management domain in order to capture complexity and risk interdependencies under high uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper makes a content analysis, based on a comprehensive literature review of articles published in high-quality journals from the years 2008 to 2018. Fuzzy hybrid methods, such as fuzzy-analytical network processing, fuzzy-artificial neural network and fuzzy-simulation, have been widely used and dominated in the literature due to their ability to measure the complexity and uncertainty of the system.

Findings

The findings of this review article suggest that due to the limitation of subjective risk data and complex computation, the applications of these AI methods are limited in order to address cost overrun issues under high uncertainty. It is suggested that a hybrid approach of fuzzy logic and extended form of Bayesian belief network (BBN) can be applied in cost-risk assessment to better capture complexity-risk interdependencies under uncertainty.

Research limitations/implications

This study only focuses on the subjective risk assessment methods applied in construction management to overcome cost overrun problem. Therefore, future research can be extended to interpret the input data required to deal with uncertainties, rather than relying solely on subjective judgments in risk assessment analysis.

Practical implications

These results may assist in the management of cost overrun while addressing complexity and uncertainty to avoid chaos in a project. In addition, project managers, experts and practitioners should address the interrelationship between key complexity and risk factors in order to plan risk impact on project cost. The proposed hybrid method of fuzzy logic and BBN can better support the management implications in recent construction risk management practice.

Originality/value

This study addresses the applications of AI-based methods in complex construction projects. A proposed hybrid approach could better address the complexity-risk interdependencies which increase cost uncertainty in project.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

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Book part
Publication date: 4 December 2020

Abstract

Details

Application of Big Data and Business Analytics
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80043-884-2

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Article
Publication date: 20 July 2023

Elaheh Hosseini, Kimiya Taghizadeh Milani and Mohammad Shaker Sabetnasab

This research aimed to visualize and analyze the co-word network and thematic clusters of the intellectual structure in the field of linked data during 1900–2021.

146

Abstract

Purpose

This research aimed to visualize and analyze the co-word network and thematic clusters of the intellectual structure in the field of linked data during 1900–2021.

Design/methodology/approach

This applied research employed a descriptive and analytical method, scientometric indicators, co-word techniques, and social network analysis. VOSviewer, SPSS, Python programming, and UCINet software were used for data analysis and network structure visualization.

Findings

The top ranks of the Web of Science (WOS) subject categorization belonged to various fields of computer science. Besides, the USA was the most prolific country. The keyword ontology had the highest frequency of co-occurrence. Ontology and semantic were the most frequent co-word pairs. In terms of the network structure, nine major topic clusters were identified based on co-occurrence, and 29 thematic clusters were identified based on hierarchical clustering. Comparisons between the two clustering techniques indicated that three clusters, namely semantic bioinformatics, knowledge representation, and semantic tools were in common. The most mature and mainstream thematic clusters were natural language processing techniques to boost modeling and visualization, context-aware knowledge discovery, probabilistic latent semantic analysis (PLSA), semantic tools, latent semantic indexing, web ontology language (OWL) syntax, and ontology-based deep learning.

Originality/value

This study adopted various techniques such as co-word analysis, social network analysis network structure visualization, and hierarchical clustering to represent a suitable, visual, methodical, and comprehensive perspective into linked data.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 43 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

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Article
Publication date: 12 January 2022

Waqar Ahmad Awan and Akhtar Abbas

The purpose of this study was to map the quantity (frequency), quality (impact) and structural indicators (correlations) of research produced on cloud computing in 48 countries…

350

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to map the quantity (frequency), quality (impact) and structural indicators (correlations) of research produced on cloud computing in 48 countries and 3 territories in the Asia continent.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objectives of the study and scientifically map the indicators, data were extracted from the Scopus database. The extracted bibliographic data was first cleaned properly using Endnote and then analyzed using Biblioshiny and VosViewer application software. In the software, calculations include citations count; h, g and m indexes; Bradford's and Lotka's laws; and other scientific mappings.

Findings

Results of the study indicate that China remained the most productive, impactful and collaborative country in Asia. All the top 20 impactful authors were also from China. The other most researched areas associated with cloud computing were revealed to be mobile cloud computing and data security in clouds. The most prominent journal currently publishing research studies on cloud computing was “Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing.”

Originality/value

The study is the first of its kind which identified the quantity (frequencies), quality (impact) and structural indicators (correlations) of Asian (48 countries and 3 territories) research productivity on cloud computing. The results are of great importance for researchers and countries interested in further exploring, publishing and increasing cross country collaborations related to the phenomenon of cloud computing.

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Article
Publication date: 24 September 2019

Madjid Tavana and Vahid Hajipour

Expert systems are computer-based systems that mimic the logical processes of human experts or organizations to give advice in a specific domain of knowledge. Fuzzy expert systems…

908

Abstract

Purpose

Expert systems are computer-based systems that mimic the logical processes of human experts or organizations to give advice in a specific domain of knowledge. Fuzzy expert systems use fuzzy logic to handle uncertainties generated by imprecise, incomplete and/or vague information. The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive review of the methods and applications in fuzzy expert systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have carefully reviewed 281 journal publications and 149 conference proceedings published over the past 37 years since 1982. The authors grouped the journal publications and conference proceedings separately accordingly to the methods, application domains, tools and inference systems.

Findings

The authors have synthesized the findings and proposed useful suggestions for future research directions. The authors show that the most common use of fuzzy expert systems is in the medical field.

Originality/value

Fuzzy logic can be used to manage uncertainty in expert systems and solve problems that cannot be solved effectively with conventional methods. In this study, the authors present a comprehensive review of the methods and applications in fuzzy expert systems which could be useful for practicing managers developing expert systems under uncertainty.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 27 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 18 March 2020

Gamal Abdualmajed Ali, Haim Hilman and Abdullahi Hassan Gorondutse

This study aims to examine the joint effect of entrepreneurial orientation (EO), market orientation (MO), total quality management (TQM) and organisational performance in the…

3172

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the joint effect of entrepreneurial orientation (EO), market orientation (MO), total quality management (TQM) and organisational performance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA's) small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used a quantitative research design. A total of 393 questionnaires were distributed to and collected from owners/managers of SMEs in KSA to acquire requisite data for examining the hypothesised model of the study. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to analyse the research data.

Findings

The results indicate that EO, MO and TQM are positively and significantly related to the organisational performance of SMEs. In addition, the findings reveal that TQM has contributed the most to the enhancement of organisational development, which is followed by EO and finally, MO.

Practical implications

Developing economies consider SMEs as an approach to generate new jobs and enhance economic growth. The results provide owners/managers, practitioners and academicians with an enhanced understanding of the relationship and effects of EO, MO and TQM on organisational performance, particularly in the SME sector. Thus, owners/managers are guided to develop improved and further effective decisions for the implementation of TQM practices with strong EO and MO. Consequently, firms realise superior performance and continuously compete within their market.

Originality/value

From the perspective of developing countries, this study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence regarding the effects of EO, MO, TQM and SMEs' performance. This study is the first to empirically examine the SME sector within the KSA's economy regarding the new orientation among decision makers in terms of increasing the significance of non-oil activities. This study also confirms the usability of resource-based view theory and strategic orientations variables in the KSA SMEs.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 27 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 2 January 2025

Hisham Noori Hussain Al-Hashimy

This study aims to explore the impact of financial management strategies on the financial performance of construction projects in Iraq, specifically investigating the moderating…

41

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of financial management strategies on the financial performance of construction projects in Iraq, specifically investigating the moderating role of company size. The primary focus is to understand how different cost components contribute to performance and how this relationship varies between larger and smaller businesses in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing a sample of 296 participants from the construction business in Iraq, this research employed a survey questionnaire. The WarpPLS software facilitated data analysis, employing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with bootstrapping for model validation. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with maximum likelihood estimation assessed the measurement model, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the financial management strategies and performance relationship.

Findings

The study reveals that equipment costs show no significant relationship with performance in Iraq’s construction industry. Larger construction firms exhibit a positive influence on financial performance from material costs, labour costs and permit/licencing fees compared to smaller firms. This suggests a moderation effect of size on the relationship between these cost components and financial outcomes, highlighting the nuanced impact of financial management strategies on performance.

Research limitations/implications

While shedding light on the size-dependent nuances in the relationship between financial strategies and performance, this study is confined to the construction industry in Iraq. The findings might not be universally applicable, and contextual variations should be considered. Additionally, the reliance on survey data introduces the potential for response bias. Future research could expand the scope to different industries and regions, incorporating diverse methodological approaches for a more comprehensive understanding of the nuances in the financial management and performance relationship.

Practical implications

Construction companies in Iraq can enhance project performance by strategically allocating resources and effectively managing costs, considering the nuanced impact of company size. Larger firms, in particular, should focus on optimising material costs, labour costs and permit/licensing fees to maximise financial outcomes. This study provides actionable insights for practitioners, guiding financial management decisions and offering practical recommendations for improving project performance in the Iraqi construction industry.

Social implications

The research contributes valuable insights to the Iraqi construction industry, an area with limited prior research on management matters. By emphasising the role of size in moderating the relationship between financial strategies and performance, the study informs industry stakeholders, policymakers and professionals about the importance of tailoring financial management approaches based on company size. This knowledge can potentially lead to improved financial outcomes, positively impacting the overall economic and social landscape in Iraq.

Originality/value

This research adds to the body of knowledge by examining the impact of company size on the relationship between financial management methods and performance in Iraq’s construction projects. The study’s originality lies in uncovering the moderating effect of size on the connection between specific cost components and financial performance. The findings provide a unique perspective on financial management strategies, offering construction companies valuable insights into optimising performance based on their size. This research contributes significantly to an underexplored area, filling a gap in the existing literature and providing practical implications for financial decision-making in the construction industry.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

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Article
Publication date: 17 May 2024

Pranav Sanjay Sutar, Gaurav Kolte, S. Yamini and K. Mathiyazhagan

Food supply chain resilience is a critical aspect in ensuring the continuous and reliable flow of food, particularly in the face of disruptions. This study aims to address…

767

Abstract

Purpose

Food supply chain resilience is a critical aspect in ensuring the continuous and reliable flow of food, particularly in the face of disruptions. This study aims to address specific gaps in the existing literature by conducting a bibliometric analysis. The primary objective is to identify key areas of concern and lacunae related to disruptions and resilience within the food supply chain. The study also strives to contribute to the field by developing a comprehensive framework that evaluates the factors influencing resilience. Furthermore, the research intends to propose effective strategies for mitigating and recovering from disruptions, emphasizing the urgency of these measures in light of identified gaps in the current body of literature.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve these objectives, the authors extracted the most relevant papers from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. The analysis parameters included a comprehensive review of current food supply chain practices and an exploration of trending research topics, such as sustainability, adaptability, circular economy and agility. Notably, the study recognized the pervasive impact of COVID-19 on food supply chain disruptions, with a high occurrence in the literature. Using advanced analytics tools like VOSviewer and Biblioshiny, the research delved into the role of modern technologies, including Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and blockchain in addressing disruptions and enhancing resilience.

Findings

The research reveals a significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food supply chain disruptions, underscoring the critical need for strategies to bolster resilience. Notably, the study identifies the pivotal role of modern technologies (Industry 4.0, IoT, AI, ML and blockchain) in mitigating disruptions and enhancing resilience in the food supply chain. The bibliometric analysis conducted through VOSviewer and Biblioshiny provides valuable insights into research trends and focal areas within the literature.

Practical implications

The observed importance of Industry 4.0, IoT, AI, ML and blockchain implies a practical need for integrating these technologies into food supply chain operations. Moreover, the paper discusses strategies for reducing the impact caused by disruptions, providing practical guidance for resilience planning in food supply chains. Researchers can leverage the findings to direct future efforts toward areas with identified gaps and opportunities, fostering advancements in the field and offering practical insights for real-world applications.

Originality/value

By amalgamating insights from bibliometric analysis and the developed framework, this study contributes to a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in fortifying the resilience of the food supply chain. The identified factors and strategies offer valuable insights for researchers and practitioners seeking to address disruptions in food supply chains. The study’s unique contribution lies in bridging theoretical perspectives with practical applications, enhancing the relevance of business-to-business/industrial supply chain theories.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. 39 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

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