Rakesh Jain, Om Prakash Yadav and Ajay Pal Singh Rathore
The purpose of this paper is to examine the propagation of benchmarking concepts among Indian manufacturing companies after liberalization of Indian economy.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the propagation of benchmarking concepts among Indian manufacturing companies after liberalization of Indian economy.
Design/methodology/approach
To determine the propagation of benchmarking concepts in the Indian manufacturing sector, first, a postal survey was conducted on 500 Indian manufacturing companies. Only 97 companies participated in the survey. Subsequently, interviews with 20 managers of six manufacturing companies were undertaken.
Findings
Research showed that benchmarking in Indian manufacturing sector is still in the nascent stage, but there is a positive attitude towards adoption of benchmarking concepts. The industry sectors, which typically show above average levels of benchmarking activity, are motor vehicle, electric and electronic industries. By contrast, it is the process sectors, which record the lowest incidences of benchmarking. Identification of suitable benchmarking partner was considered to be the most important problem among Indian manufacturing companies.
Research limitations/implications
A limitation of research is the number of respondents, which precludes the generalization of findings.
Practical implications
The study can help managers of manufacturing companies understand the problems and inhibitors to successful benchmarking.
Originality/value
The paper provides an attempt to find out propagation of benchmarking concepts in Indian context. The paper should be of interest to those researching or managing in the Indian manufacturing sector. This is one of the first studies on dissemination of benchmarking in developing countries and should encourage further research in these countries.
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Avinash Panwar, Bimal Nepal, Rakesh Jain and Om Prakash Yadav
– This paper aims to present existence comprehensive analysis of state of implementation of benchmarking concepts in Indian automotive companies.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to present existence comprehensive analysis of state of implementation of benchmarking concepts in Indian automotive companies.
Design/methodology/approach
The research is carried out through a mixed method of research approach comprising of a survey of 300 auto companies in India. Out of 300, 48 valid responses together with three additional case studies were used in the data analysis. Inclusion of case studies was aspired to get deeper insight into the issues pertaining to adoption of best practices, and subsequently the implementation of benchmarking activities.
Findings
Benchmarking has been unanimously accepted as an effective performance and productivity improvement tool by Indian auto companies. However, Indian automobile manufacturers still see benchmarking as a tool to compare product attributes, quality attributes, operations, and processes. Moreover, it has been perceived as being less applicable at strategic level. Results also show that benchmarking is in its primary stage in the Indian automotive industry, and it still needs much more commitment from top management for its proliferation. Lesser significance is given to competitor benchmarking due to the fear of losing competitive advantage, and the problem of confidentiality. Reasons identified in this study for not using benchmarking include “lack of human resources” as most important, followed by “financial constraints”, and “lack of internal expertise”.
Research limitations/implications
Research results should be generalized and reproduced with a larger sample size. Owing to the scarce application of benchmarking in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), separate study should be carried out to find ways to encourage benchmarking implementation in Indian auto component manufacturing SMEs.
Originality/value
The paper provides insight into the extent of implementation of benchmarking concepts in Indian automobile industry. This study is the first attempt to understand propagation of benchmarking concepts, exclusively among Indian auto companies.
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Mayank Goswami, Nitin Mehta, Harsh Panwar, Om Prakash Malav and Jasbir Singh Bedi
The purpose of this study is to investigate the scope of the addition of seaweed powders for the development of low-salt and fibre-enriched pork nuggets.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the scope of the addition of seaweed powders for the development of low-salt and fibre-enriched pork nuggets.
Design/methodology/approach
Three different seaweeds, namely, Kappaphycus alvarezii, Ulva lactuca and Sargassum tenerrimum, were incorporated separately at 3%, 4% and 5% levels to develop low-salt and fibre-enriched pork nuggets. A total of nine treatments (T1–T9) were compared the following incorporation of different percentages of seaweed powder, alongside a control. All the samples were investigated for physico-chemical parameters (pH, cooking yield and emulsion stability), proximate composition, colour, texture profile analysis and sensory characteristics.
Findings
With the incorporation of seaweed powders, the level of salt to be added was reduced in the formulation. All the treatments had higher (p = 0.05) cooking yield (%) and emulsion stability (%) than the control, along with an increase (p = 0.05) in total dietary fibre (TDF), irrespective of the type of seaweed added. Incorporation of seaweed significantly (p = 0.05) increased the hardness and chewiness of the products. On sensory analysis, out of all the treatments, T2 was found to have the highest scores in terms of various sensory attributes and was also found comparable to control. The study shows that based on physicochemical, proximate and sensory properties, out of all the tried levels, 4% Kappaphycus alvarezii powder can be incorporated for the development of low-salt and fibre-enriched pork nuggets.
Practical implications
The study highlighted the use of seaweeds as a functional ingredient in development of low-salt, fibre-enriched pork nuggets. It would result in improving yield and key nutritional and sensory attributes with a simultaneous decrease in the level of salt to be added in processing. Further, it would also provide an opportunity to use underutilized nutrient sources, i.e. seaweeds, which will also help in an overall reduction of the cost of developed products.
Social implications
The technology for developing pork nuggets using seaweed powders is simple and can be easily adopted by small-scale entrepreneurs and processors. The product developed in his study can have a wider consumer base in terms of superior functionality.
Originality/value
Research on the development of low-salt, fibre-enriched pork nuggets incorporating seaweed powders is very limited. Utilization of seaweeds in meat product formulations represents a promising and innovative approach, aimed at enhancing nutritional profiles while maintaining desirable textural and sensory characteristics. This novel area of study leverages unique functional characteristics of seaweeds, such as high fibre content and natural mineral richness, to create healthier products, which is in consonance with the UN Sustainable Development Goal of Good health and well-being. Exploring the potential of seaweeds aligns with the growing demand for functional meat products alongside addressing consumers’ preference for products with lower sodium content without compromising sensory quality.
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Cong Doanh Duong, Thanh Hieu Nguyen, Thi Viet Nga Ngo, Thu Van Bui and Nhat Minh Tran
The current study aims to investigate the impact of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on consumers’ intention to purchase organic food. This study examines how…
Abstract
Purpose
The current study aims to investigate the impact of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on consumers’ intention to purchase organic food. This study examines how perceived blockchain- related information transparency, directly and indirectly, affects purchase intentions through attitudes, perceived behavioural control and subjective norms. Additionally, the study explores how blockchain-based trust moderates the influence of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on these factors and the intention to purchase organic food.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on the theory of planned behaviour framework and a sample of 5,326 consumers, this study uses partial least squares structural equation modelling to test the research model.
Findings
This study finds that perceived blockchain-related information transparency directly enhances consumers’ attitudes towards organic food purchase, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms and intention to purchase organic food. Additionally, perceived blockchain-related information transparency indirectly affects consumers’ intention to buy organic food through three antecedents of the theory of planned behaviour model. Notably, these indirect effects were moderated by consumers’ blockchain-based trust.
Practical implications
This study provides recommendations for leveraging blockchain to enhance transparency and build trust, which could boost consumer engagement and organic food purchases.
Originality/value
This research contributes to blockchain literature by empirically examining the role of perceived blockchain-related transparency and blockchain-based trust in consumers’ purchasing decisions regarding organic food. It provides valuable insights into the consumer-centric benefits of blockchain technology. Furthermore, this study also contributes to the literature on organic food, particularly its promotion through blockchain technology.
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Nitin Mehta, B . D. Sharma, R. R. Kumar, Pavan Kumar, Om Prakash Malav and Akhilesh Kumar Verma
The purpose of this study is to develop a chicken product that could supply calcium, vitamin E and vitamin C together with high sensory acceptability. The present study was…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop a chicken product that could supply calcium, vitamin E and vitamin C together with high sensory acceptability. The present study was envisaged to develop low-fat chicken patties fortified with calcium, vitamin E and vitamin C without any adverse effects on sensory attributes.
Design/methodology/approach
Three different levels of calcium lactate as a source of calcium viz. 1.5, 1.75 and 2.0 per cent, α-tocopherol acetate for vitamin E at 0.019, 0.023 and 0.029 per cent and ascorbic acid for vitamin C at 0.09, 0.12 and 0.15 per cent in low-fat chicken meat patties were tried and the optimum level was standardized based on physico-chemical, proximate and sensory parameters.
Findings
The calcium lactate at 1.75 per cent, α-tocopherol acetate at 0.029 per cent and ascorbic acid at 0.15 per cent were found to be optimum on the basis of proximate, physico-chemical and sensory parameters. The textural attributes of the standardized product was comparable to that of the control. The a*, b* and Chroma values for the low-fat chicken patties fortified with calcium, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of the control. The calcium and ascorbic acid concentration of the standardized product was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of the control.
Originality/value
The levels in the fortified product were found to be suitable to achieve a 20 per cent RDA of calcium and almost a complete RDA for vitamin C. The research findings demonstrated the development of a single-designer chicken product rich in calcium, vitamin C and vitamin E.
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Manish Kumar Chatli, Pavan Kumar, Nitin Mehta, Akhilesh K Verma, Devendra Kumar and Om Prakash Malav
– The purpose of this study was to develop functional emu meat nuggets incorporated with finger millet flour (FMF) with high fibre content and improved oxidative stability.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to develop functional emu meat nuggets incorporated with finger millet flour (FMF) with high fibre content and improved oxidative stability.
Design/methodology/approach
FMF was incorporated at 4, 6 and 8 per cent levels with replacement of emu meat in nuggets formulation and on the basis of various physico-chemical, instrumental colour and sensory parameters, 6 per cent FMF was selected as optimum. The functional emu meat nuggets incorporated with optimum level of FMF as well as control were aerobically packaged in low density polyethylene (LDPE) bags and stored for 21 days at refrigeration (4 ± 1°C) and evaluated for oxidative stability, microbiological quality and sensory attributes at regular interval of 7 days.
Findings
The fat content showed significant (p < 0.05) decrease, whereas the crude fibre content increased significantly (p < 0.05) with the increasing levels of incorporation. The sensory scores for all the attributes in 6 per cent FMF-incorporated product were higher than control. During entire storage studies, the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), free fatty acid and peroxide value followed an increasing trend for control as well as treatment product; however, treatment showed a significantly (p < 0.05) lower value than control throughout the storage period. Standard plate count increased significantly (p < 0.05) for control and treatment product, but the counts were lower than the prescribed limits even on 21st day of storage.
Practical implications
The developed products will have functional value by increasing the calcium and dietary fibre content by utilizing the minor cereals. This will be highly beneficial to both the agriculture and meat industry.
Originality/value
The research findings demonstrated the use of FMF in the development of calcium- and fibre-enriched emu meat nuggets with improved oxidative stability.
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Suhail Mohammad Ghouse, Rishabh Shekhar and Monica Chaudhary
This study explores green consumer behaviour among Generation Y (Gen Y) and Generation Z (Gen Z) in India, applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to assess how digital…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores green consumer behaviour among Generation Y (Gen Y) and Generation Z (Gen Z) in India, applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to assess how digital literacy and eco-friendly behaviour, alongside knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, shape purchase intentions in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12).
Design/methodology/approach
The research involved a survey of 680 randomly selected respondents from educational institutions across three northern Indian cities. Data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire with items measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical methods, including confirmatory factor analysis, were used to validate the measurement model, while descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and regression analysis were employed to analyse the data.
Findings
The study uncovers differences between Gen Y and Gen Z regarding the factors influencing green product purchase intentions. Gen Y’s purchase intentions are shaped by attitude, digital literacy, eco-friendly behaviour, and perceived behavioural control, whereas Gen Z’s intentions are also affected by environmental knowledge and subjective norms.
Research limitations/implications
This research provides significant insights into the factors determining green consumer behaviour among Gen Y and Gen Z in India, enriching the knowledge of sustainable consumption practices. It highlights the importance of digital literacy and eco-friendly behaviour in promoting green purchase intentions, and the differing roles of environmental knowledge and subjective norms across generational cohorts.
Practical implications
Understanding the drivers behind green product purchase intentions for Gen Y and Gen Z enables stakeholders to craft specific marketing strategies, educational programs, and policy initiatives that promote sustainable behaviours and mitigate environmental impacts.
Social implications
The study’s findings have significant social implications, promoting sustainable lifestyles and behaviours among younger generations. By influencing peer groups and communities, and guiding the development of effective public campaigns and CSR initiatives, the study contributes to fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry that advocates for environmental sustainability.
Originality/value
The uniqueness of this study comes from its focus on the Indian youth demographic, the application of the TPB framework with additional variables, and its contribution to SDG 12, enhancing our comprehension of green consumer behaviour and supporting sustainability advancements in India and globally.
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Alok Kumar Samanta, Varaprasad G. and Anand Gurumurthy
Health care organisations implement lean six sigma (LSS) methodology to achieve improved performance in terms of cost, quality and productivity. However, the way it gets…
Abstract
Purpose
Health care organisations implement lean six sigma (LSS) methodology to achieve improved performance in terms of cost, quality and productivity. However, the way it gets implemented differs between organisations. Hence, this paper deal with a review of case studies describing the implementation of LSS in health care organisations to understand the nuances of implementation and identify future research directions.
Design/methodology/approach
The journal articles indexed in the Web of Science and Scopus database were filtered out. In total, 154 articles were evaluated using specific structural dimensions to categorise the literature into various groups, and content analysis was performed to synthesise the same.
Findings
This review revealed that the number of articles publishing the application of LSS in health care has been increasing in the last five years. Academic hospitals play a pivotal role to bridge the gap between LSS theory and practice. Despite this fact, certain themes remain unexplored. Not many studies are available that document the application of LSS in non-clinical areas such as pharmacy, internal logistics, maintenance and medical records. Only 20% of articles mentioned the post-intervention data up to three years, thus questioning the sustainability aspect of the achieved improvements.
Research limitations/implications
Various research gaps were identified, which can be used by the researchers to build the body of knowledge in the domain of LSS in health care.
Practical implications
This review provides a diversified view regarding the utility of LSS in the health care scenario. The findings will provide valuable insights for the health care practitioners regarding tools, techniques, drivers and performance measures.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to review only the case studies that describe the implementation of LSS in the health care sector.