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Article
Publication date: 1 February 1993

Michael J. Spendolini

There is nothing that can wreck a well‐intentioned benchmarking plan faster than selecting the wrong people for the team. Take the company that chose staff members who didn't have…

272

Abstract

There is nothing that can wreck a well‐intentioned benchmarking plan faster than selecting the wrong people for the team. Take the company that chose staff members who didn't have enough credibility within the organization to sell their benchmarking team's recommendations to senior management. The team did an excellent job, but without the clout to get their recommendations approved, their efforts failed.

Details

Journal of Business Strategy, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0275-6668

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 1995

Mohamed Zairi and Mohamed Youssef

Reviews the first three of 11 key books on benchmarking with theaim of assisting in the educational and training processes in companiesembarking on or launching a benchmarking…

6207

Abstract

Reviews the first three of 11 key books on benchmarking with the aim of assisting in the educational and training processes in companies embarking on or launching a benchmarking project.

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Benchmarking for Quality Management & Technology, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1351-3036

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2016

Yewande Adetoro Adewunmi, Hikmot Koleoso and Modupe Omirin

The purpose of this paper is to examine benchmarking barriers among Nigerian facilities management (FM) practitioners.

646

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine benchmarking barriers among Nigerian facilities management (FM) practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection were through semi-structured interviews with 34 FM heads from three selected cities in Nigeria. Out of this number, 16 were from Lagos, ten from Abuja while eight managers were from Port Harcourt, respectively. These managers were selected using purposive sampling based on their experience in the field of FM across the various sectors of the economy. The interviews were analysed with Nvivo 10 software qualitative computer software.

Findings

Those that do informal benchmarking face challenges with data, employees lack of confidence in new initiatives and poor support of senior management, the companies that use best practice benchmarking face constraints of access to information and employees unwillingness to change and comply to company set standards, unwillingness of benchmarking partners to understand the usefulness of the project, and problems that emanate from the quality of data obtained.

Practical implications

The results therefore suggest that to improve the practice of best practice benchmarking there is need to improve both quantity and quality of data for the exercise and enhance standard practice.

Originality/value

The study established a new category of benchmarking barriers called the market category of benchmarking barriers and further distinguished benchmarking barriers based on two forms of benchmarking which is informal and formal benchmarking. Also there are limited studies on benchmarking barriers in developing countries.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 23 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 1990

Eliza Tse and Michael D. Olsen

In today′s complex and competitive environment, strategicmanagement becomes the primary means of adapting organisations to theirchanging environment. For firms in the maturing…

1650

Abstract

In today′s complex and competitive environment, strategic management becomes the primary means of adapting organisations to their changing environment. For firms in the maturing hospitality industry to survive and grow, they will have to depend on their ability to align themselves strategically with the turbulent environment and select appropriate strategies to create defendable competitive positions. The findings of a nationwide study which was conducted to extend Porter′s framework of business strategy to the service industry by exploring the level of strategic management in restaurant firms in the United States are given. Companies′ emphasis in resource allocation in various competitive methods, and the nature of the relationship between strategy and structure are also examined.

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International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 2 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2005

Ronald McGaughey, Victor Puleo and K. Michael Casey

The purpose of this research paper is to provide practitioners and researchers with guidance and ideas for benchmarking employee benefits in companies providing professional…

2597

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to provide practitioners and researchers with guidance and ideas for benchmarking employee benefits in companies providing professional services. The research addressed employee benefits in multi‐owner accounting firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a survey of a large number of multi‐owner accounting firms (CPA firms) were analyzed to examine professional employee benefits and to look at the relationship between firm size and benefits offered.

Findings

An analysis of survey results suggested that larger firms offer better benefits than smaller firms. Larger firms tend also to be more profitable. Various employee benefit metrics were examined.

Research limitations/implications

The survey was limited to accounting firms in the United States, so the findings may have limited value for researchers and practitioners in other countries.

Practical implications

The better benefits offered by larger accounting firms may allow them to attract better personnel, possibly accounting for their greater profitability. If this is indeed true, then a good benefit package may well be a key success factor for accounting firms, and possibly for other professional services. Firms seeking to improve their competitive position may, therefore, find it advantageous to benchmark their professional employee benefits against the benefit packages of larger more profitable competitors.

Originality/value

This paper examines professional employee benefits in multi‐owner accounting firms and identifies metrics that could be useful to practitioners in benchmarking those benefits. The metrics identified and other findings may provide practitioners with ideas for benchmarking benefits in other professional service organizations.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 3 April 2017

Dag Øivind Madsen, Kåre Slåtten and Daniel Johanson

The purpose of this paper is to make a contribution to the benchmarking literature by examining the historical emergence and evolution of benchmarking using the management fashion…

1889

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to make a contribution to the benchmarking literature by examining the historical emergence and evolution of benchmarking using the management fashion perspective as a theoretical lens.

Design/methodology/approach

The research approach followed in this paper can be characterized as explorative and theoretical. Insights from different data sources have been combined to provide a rich description of the emergence and evolution of benchmarking.

Findings

This analysis casts new light on several aspects of benchmarking’s emergence and evolution pattern. The characteristics of the benchmarking idea give it potential as a fashionable management tool. The widespread popularity and longevity of benchmarking can to a large extent be explained by the efforts of various actors to turn benchmarking into an institution.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is explorative and is limited by a reliance on secondary sources.

Originality/value

Although some researchers have noted that benchmarking could be viewed as a management fashion, management fashion theory has, only to a very limited extent, been used as a theoretical lens in the context of benchmarking. This research paper demonstrates that management fashion theory can provide valuable insights for research on benchmarking.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 24 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 18 September 2023

Nizar Mohammad Alsharari and Mohammed S. Aljohani

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of environmental and cultural factors on the benchmarking implementation process and management control within…

575

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of environmental and cultural factors on the benchmarking implementation process and management control within organizations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). By exploring the complex interplay of these factors, the study aims to uncover how environmental considerations and cultural dynamics shape the effectiveness and outcomes of benchmarking initiatives in the UAE's unique business environment. The research seeks to provide valuable insights for organizations in the UAE to optimize their benchmarking practices and enhance their overall performance and competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to comprehensively explore the influence of environmental and cultural factors on benchmarking implementation and management control in the UAE. This study draws on the integration of two main theoretical perspectives: institutional theory and contingency theory. This is the first attempt to integrate these different frameworks in a single study. The study presents a case study of Emirates Industrial City (EIC), which has been recognized by global industries for boosting efficiency, cost control, quality and overall operations. The quality method known as benchmarking maximizes the potential for organizations to achieve optimal levels of production efficiency.

Findings

This paper provides compelling evidence that the benchmarking implementation process and management control in the UAE are significantly influenced by the complex interplay of environmental and cultural factors. By recognizing the importance of environmental sustainability and cultural values in guiding benchmarking practices, UAE organizations can optimize their performance and competitiveness. The findings contribute valuable insights to the existing literature, offering practical implications for UAE organizations seeking to leverage benchmarking as a strategic tool for growth and continuous improvement. The findings reveal that UAE organizations incorporating environmental considerations into benchmarking practices demonstrate a proactive approach to sustainability, aligning their goals with eco-friendly practices. Cultural influences, including a culture of collaboration and openness to external learning, contribute to successful benchmarking adoption and knowledge sharing. Moreover, the study highlights that the integration of benchmarking outcomes into the management control process positively correlates with organizational performance. UAE organizations that leverage benchmarking data for decision-making and performance evaluation exhibit higher levels of competitiveness and efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

This paper has important implications for organizations in the UAE seeking to optimize their benchmarking practices and management control. The study's findings can guide organizations in aligning their benchmarking efforts with environmental sustainability goals and cultural values to enhance performance and competitiveness. Understanding the influence of environmental and cultural factors on benchmarking adoption and implementation allows organizations to foster a benchmarking culture that embraces knowledge sharing and learning. Managers can tailor their approaches to accommodate cultural nuances and enhance the effectiveness of benchmarking initiatives.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge in several ways. Integrated approach: By examining the complex interplay of environmental and cultural factors, this study takes an integrated approach of institutional and contingency theories to understanding their influence on benchmarking implementation and management control. It offers a comprehensive view of how these factors interact to shape organizational practices and outcomes. UAE context: The study focuses specifically on the UAE, providing insights into benchmarking practices within the unique environmental and cultural context of the nation. This research addresses a gap in the literature by examining the influence of these factors in a distinct business environment.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 31 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 29 July 2014

Michael G. Sternbeck and Heinrich Kuhn

The purpose of this paper is to identify and describe similarities between logistics structures and mid-term planning problems in the grocery retail and automotive industries in a…

2443

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and describe similarities between logistics structures and mid-term planning problems in the grocery retail and automotive industries in a specific internal section of their respective supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The benchmarking approach is used as a framework for this paper. It is based on insights resulting from several joint projects with grocery retailers and automobile producers. A particular focus of the research was participating in an exchange of ideas and experience between logistics managers in both industry sectors.

Findings

The authors have identified parallels when comparing the internal retail supply chain of the grocery retail industry, which consists of distribution centres, transportation and in-store logistics, with the internal logistics network in the automotive industry, which consists of logistics supermarkets, transportation and work zone operations at the assembly line. Strong similarities have been found for three planning problems related to tactical planning tasks: assigning products and parts to delivery modes, selecting packaging units and loading carriers, and determining delivery cycles. In comparison to retailing, there is a clearer trend in the automotive industry to plan line-back and align processes with the operator's requirements at the assembly line.

Practical implications

For logisticians in grocery retailing and the automotive industry, this paper provides relevant input for functional benchmarking initiatives and offers an inspirational view beyond the horizon.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to focus on similarities in logistics network structures and planning tasks between the two industries from the viewpoint of grocery retailing.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 21 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

R. Glenn Richey, Stefan E. Genchev and Patricia J. Daugherty

Aims to provide empirical evidence of the relationships between and among reverse logistics, resource commitment, and innovation.

7776

Abstract

Purpose

Aims to provide empirical evidence of the relationships between and among reverse logistics, resource commitment, and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Mail surveys were sent to members of the Automobile Aftermarket Industry Association, a large trade association. Factor level results followed by between‐item results, as typically reported in general linear modeling and mediated regression, are developed using a split sample methodology. Ultimately, Resource‐Advantage Theory provided the framework for examining the impact of developing innovative reverse logistics‐related dynamic capabilities.

Findings

Resource commitment makes reverse logistics programs more efficient and more effective. However, the resources must be used in such a manner as to develop innovative capabilities/approaches to handling returns. Resource commitment was not found to be significantly related to innovation in reverse logistics at smaller firms. This is likely to be related to the level of resources available. Larger firms can commit greater resources and, thus, enjoy superior performance compared with smaller firms in the survey group.

Research limitations/implications

The focus is somewhat narrow. New research should extend beyond the one industry examined. Future research should also expand to include more members of the supply chain and employ methods that allow examination of network relationships.

Practical implications

Reverse logistics deserves special attention in terms of resource commitment. Resources related to labor, i.e. allocating sufficient personnel to reverse logistics programs, are especially critical. Innovation in reverse logistics programs was found to be related to operational service quality at both small and large firms.

Originality/value

The research provides empirical evidence of the relationships between resource commitment and innovation – and how reverse logistics program performance is influenced. This has important implications with respect to customer relations. It can also be used to provide rationale for securing adequate resource commitment for reverse logistics programs.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 35 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

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Article
Publication date: 24 May 2011

Patricia J. Daugherty, Haozhe Chen and Bruce G. Ferrin

The purpose of this paper is to examine how organizational structural factors (namely decentralization, formalization, and specialization) influence a firm's logistics service…

6904

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how organizational structural factors (namely decentralization, formalization, and specialization) influence a firm's logistics service innovation capability and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is proposed combining the Strategy‐Structure‐Performance framework and the Resource‐Based View of the firm. Empirical survey data were collected in the Chinese electronics manufacturing industry, and structural equation modeling is performed to assess measures and test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

In the current research context, both decentralization and formalization were found to be positively related to a firm's logistics service innovation capability, although the formalization was originally proposed to have negative impact on logistics service innovation capability. However, specialization was not a significant predictor according to our results. A positive relationship between logistics service innovation capability and market performance is also confirmed.

Research limitations/implications

In order to improve the validity of the study by eliminating external factors, the study was conducted in a single industry in one country. Therefore, study results should be interpreted and applied with caution, and future research should replicate the tests in different contexts or extend the current study by including other relevant factors.

Practical implications

At a time when market environment is extremely competitive and unstable and service becomes a key differentiator, it is critical for firms to better understand and manage controllable internal factors, organizational structure in this context, to enhance service innovation capability, thus achieving better performance.

Originality/value

This study makes a contribution to the limited yet important knowledge base regarding logistics service innovation.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 22 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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