Paulino Silva and Aldónio Ferreira
There is a growing interest in research focusing on performance management practices in the public sector, but research is still limited with regards to public primary healthcare…
Abstract
Purpose
There is a growing interest in research focusing on performance management practices in the public sector, but research is still limited with regards to public primary healthcare services (PHSs), which play an important role in national healthcare systems. These organisations are frequently criticised for alleged poor performance management practices and misuse of resources, though such claims are not always substantiated. The purpose of this study is to examine performance management practices in public PHSs.
Design/methodology/approach
Three case studies of PHSs organisations were conducted resulting in interview material and archival data. Otley's performance management framework was used to examine the data.
Findings
It is found that the performance management systems of the studied PHSs were disjoint and lacked consistency and coherence. Lack of direction and motivational were key issues in PHSs. Furthermore, the observations indicate that vertical controls between PHSs and parent organisation were weak and accountability poor.
Research limitations/implications
Generalisability of findings and social desirability bias are the important limitations. A key research implication is that the conceptual framework adopted can be meaningfully used to generate insights into performance management issues in public sector healthcare organisations.
Practical implications
The study highlights the implications of the poor design and use of performance management systems and highlights areas for improvement in the organisations studied, and potentially across the sector.
Originality/value
This study is the first to draw upon Otley's performance management framework to examine performance management practices in PHSs and to demonstrate its usefulness in this context.
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Daicong Da, Xiangyang Cui, Kai Long, Guanxin Huang and Guangyao Li
In pure material design, the previous research has indicated that lots of optimization factors such as used algorithm and parameters have influence on the optimal solution. In…
Abstract
Purpose
In pure material design, the previous research has indicated that lots of optimization factors such as used algorithm and parameters have influence on the optimal solution. In other words, there are multiple local minima for the topological design of materials for extreme properties. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to attempt different or more concise algorithms to find much wider possible solutions to material design. As for the design of material microstructures for macro-structural performance, the previous studies test algorithms on 2D porous or composite materials only, it should be demonstrated for 3D problems to reveal numerical and computational performance of the used algorithm.
Design/methodology/approach
The presented paper is an attempt to use the strain energy method and the bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) algorithm to tailor material microstructures so as to find the optimal topology with the selected objective functions. The adoption of the strain energy-based approach instead of the homogenization method significantly simplifies the numerical implementation. The BESO approach is well suited to the optimal design of porous materials, and the generated topology structures are described clearly which makes manufacturing easy.
Findings
As a result, the presented method shows high stability during the optimization process and requires little iterations for convergence. A number of interesting and valid material microstructures are obtained which verify the effectiveness of the proposed optimization algorithm. The numerical examples adequately consider effects of initial guesses of the representative unit cell (RUC) and of the volume constraints of solid materials on the final design. The presented paper also reveals that the optimized microstructure obtained from pure material design is not the optimal solution any more when considering the specific macro-structural performance. The optimal result depends on various effects such as the initial guess of RUC and the size dimension of the macrostructure itself.
Originality/value
This paper presents a new topology optimization method for the optimal design of 2D and 3D porous materials for extreme elastic properties and macro-structural performance. Unlike previous studies, the presented paper tests the proposed optimization algorithm for not only 2D porous material design but also 3D topology optimization to reveal numerical and computational performance of the used algorithm. In addition, some new and interesting material microstructural topologies have been obtained to provide wider possible solutions to the material design.
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Rejane Santana da Silva, Gustavo Quiroga Souki, Alessandro Silva de Oliveira, Luís Sérgio Gonçalves Vieira and Manuel Serra
This study aimed to investigate the influence of the perceived quality by students regarding their experiences in vocational schools in tourism, hospitality and food service on…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the influence of the perceived quality by students regarding their experiences in vocational schools in tourism, hospitality and food service on cognitive and affective responses (satisfaction, self-efficacy expectations and self-regulation strategies of motivation for learning - SRSML) and commitment (behavioural response).
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 454 students from twelve Turismo de Portugal IP-affiliated schools. The theoretical framework was rooted in Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and PLS-SEM, using ADANCO 2.3 software to test the proposed model.
Findings
Perceived quality by students concerning their school experiences are socio-contextual factors that directly influence their satisfaction and self-efficacy expectations (cognitive and affective responses). Satisfaction and self-efficacy expectations positively affected SRSML. Finally, satisfaction and the SRSML positively impacted the students` commitment to schools (behavioural response).
Originality/value
This study contributes to academia by comprehensively addressing 16 perceived quality dimensions within vocational education. It aligns with SDT, revealing that socio-contextual factors affect students’ cognitive, affective, and behavioural responses. Additionally, it demonstrates positive relationships between student satisfaction, self-efficacy expectations, SRSML, and students’ commitment to vocational education institutions. This study emphasises the multidimensional nature of perceived quality, urging educational institutions to address tangible and intangible dimensions to develop strategies to provide high-quality experiences, increasing students` satisfaction, self-efficacy expectations, motivation, and commitment.
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Walter Leal Filho, Laís Viera Trevisan, João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio, Izabela Simon Rampasso, Rosley Anholon, Johannes Platje, Markus Will, Federica Doni, Muhammad Mazhar, Jaluza Maria Lima Silva Borsatto and Carla Bonato Marcolin
This study aims to investigate how sustainability and ethics are being addressed both by the literature and companies. Furthermore, it seeks to identify the specific strategies…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate how sustainability and ethics are being addressed both by the literature and companies. Furthermore, it seeks to identify the specific strategies that these companies use to foster ethical behaviour and promote sustainability in their business operations.
Design/methodology/approach
The study entails a bibliometric analysis and a set of case studies from a sample of companies working in different industry sectors. Based on these tools, it analyses whether – and how – enterprises are placing an emphasis on sustainability and ethics as part of their businesses. In addition, the selected companies' unethical practices or socially irresponsible corporate activities were investigated and presented.
Findings
The findings suggest that using an ethics perspective can be a valuable tool in improving the accuracy and correctness of business decision-making. In addition, the paper has identified the fact that sustainability standards can be used to improve customer satisfaction as many important issues are addressed. Finally, the paper highlights the importance of ethical considerations when designing and implementing sustainability standards at enterprises and the need for regulatory guidance in this regard.
Originality/value
The paper addresses the need for studies on how sustainability and ethics are being discussed by both the literature and companies. The paper presents some elements that can be used as possible corporate indicators for a wider implementation of sustainability and ethics objectives in enterprises.
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Adriana Cristina Ferreira Caldana, João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio, Bárbara Lespinasse Sampaio, Maria Luiza Gianotto, Aurora Contiero Talarico and André Cavalcante da Silva Batalhão
This paper aims to explore whether formal, non-formal, and informal learning experiences contribute to developing sustainable development competencies (SDCs) among students in a…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore whether formal, non-formal, and informal learning experiences contribute to developing sustainable development competencies (SDCs) among students in a Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) signatory business school.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey based on the students’ learning experiences and a questionnaire on sustainability competencies already validated in the literature were given to a sample of 274 bachelor students at a PRME signatory business school. Nominal variables representing students’ categories were created to test a set of hypotheses developed according to the literature. Because the data was not normally distributed, non-parametric independent-samples Mann–Whitney U test was conducted, and descriptive statistics was used to help the analysis.
Findings
The results suggest that a hybrid format with a combination of formal, non-formal and informal learning experiences is essential to maximising the development of SDCs and raising students’ sustainability literacy.
Research limitations/implications
This study is one of the first attempts to understand the importance of a hybrid approach in developing sustainable competencies (SDCs). Future studies could adopt longitudinal analysis to check the development of these competencies over time, assess students from different PRME signatory schools or comparing students to those in non-signatory business schools.
Practical implications
This study provides insight into how business schools could address challenges in developing sustainable competencies through redirecting their educational systems by balancing formal, informal and non-formal learning approaches to educate future responsible leaders.
Originality/value
This research provides evidence on how a hybrid learning approach could maximise the development of sustainable development competencies and, therefore, generating insights for educational policies.
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Ana Brochado, Mike Troilo, Helena Rodrigues and Fernando Oliveira-Brochado
The purpose of this study sought to identify the main themes linked with wine hotel experiences, based on tourists’ narratives shared online, and to investigate whether these…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study sought to identify the main themes linked with wine hotel experiences, based on tourists’ narratives shared online, and to investigate whether these narratives vary according to traveler type.
Design/methodology/approach
Content analysis was carried out on 4,114 online reviews of 52 wine hotels located in 27 wine regions across 11 nations in both the Old and New World.
Findings
The analysis of these web reviews revealed that narratives can be grouped under 11 themes organized into 7 main dimensions as follows: wine, lodging (i.e. hotel, area and room), food service (i.e. restaurant and breakfast), scenery (i.e. views and vineyards), staff, transportation and recommendation. The main narratives vary according to traveler type.
Practical implications
Improving the present understanding of wine tourists’ experiences should help wine hotel managers find new approaches to enhancing visitors’ satisfaction. As the dimensions of wine tourism experiences shared online vary according to traveler type, wine managers can design their offer to target families, couples, friends, solo and corporate clients.
Originality/value
Prior research has identified the need for market segmentation in the wine tourism industry. This research addresses this need by specifying the wine tourism experience according to traveler type. The breadth of the data, and the method of using travelers’ own testimony as opposed to more common surveying are additional contributions for both academics and managers.
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Haining Yin, Hui Zhang and Zhumei Xi
Phenolic compounds play a critical role in grape quality, and their content is strongly influenced by bunch zone temperature during the ripening period. The mechanism of…
Abstract
Purpose
Phenolic compounds play a critical role in grape quality, and their content is strongly influenced by bunch zone temperature during the ripening period. The mechanism of responding to temperature was found to highly depend on cultivars. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of row orientation and canopy side on phenolic content in grape berries.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors analyzed the accumulation of phenolic compounds in mature berries of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Gernischt. They were harvested from various canopy sides of north-south and east-west row orientations, which were NS–E and NS–W, EW–S and EW–N.
Findings
During the ripening period, mean temperatures of the bunch zones, NS–W and EW–N were respectively higher than NS–E and EW–S. At harvest, the total phenolic, total anthocyanin, tannin and reducing sugar contents were higher in NS–E and EW–S, than in NS–W and EW–N, respectively, indicating a negative relationship with temperature. For both varieties, EW–S had the highest proportion of malvidins anthocyanins. Peonidins, delphinidins, and cyanidins anthocyanins of EW–N showed a higher ratio in Cabernet Sauvignon, while NS–E showed a higher ratio in Cabernet Gernischt.
Originality/value
To improve grape monomeric anthocyanin content, the results indicate that Cabernet Sauvignon of NS–W and Cabernet Gernischt of NS–E can be utilized for an effective strategy. Moreover, the optimal combination planting choices with cultivars would improve wine quality by increasing pigment concentrations linked to the color and antioxidant potential.
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Walter Leal Filho, Laís Viera Trevisan, João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio, Thais Dibbern, Julen Castillo Apraiz, Izabela Rampasso, Rosley Anholon, Beatrice Gornati, Manfredi Morello and Wim Lambrechts
Despite the growing interest in the field, the literature overlooks how supply chains influence or interact with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To…
Abstract
Purpose
Despite the growing interest in the field, the literature overlooks how supply chains influence or interact with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To fill this gap, this study aims to assess the influences of Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) on the implementation of the UN SDGs.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review of 97 publications was carried out by using the Web of Science database and the support of ATLAS.ti software. In addition, this research also explored how the top 20 Forbes companies are aligned with the SDGs by analysing their sustainability reports.
Findings
The findings suggest that the literature and the analysed companies primarily concentrate on certain SDGs while neglecting others, revealing potential areas of interest for future research. Based on the findings, the study provides valuable insights into the connections between SSCM and the UN SDGs, highlighting the potential benefits of SSCM in reducing environmental, social and economic pressures and contributing to sustainable development. It also identifies areas where further research and policy development are needed to maximise the potential benefits of SSCM.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors' knowledge, no other studies have conducted a comprehensive exploration of the literature linking SSCM and the SDGs framework. Moreover, the study differs from others since it combines research data with practical information from company reports, to identify specific issues related to supply chain management.
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Luis Felipe Dias Lopes, Anavaléria Vieira Santos, Deoclécio Junior Cardoso da Silva, Igor Bernardi Sonza, Daniel Knebel Baggio, Gilnei Luiz de Moura, Wesley Vieira da Silva and Claudimar Pereira da Veiga
This research sheds light on the distinct decision-making behaviors and perceptions related to the value attributed to money, uncovering nuances in the interrelationship between…
Abstract
Purpose
This research sheds light on the distinct decision-making behaviors and perceptions related to the value attributed to money, uncovering nuances in the interrelationship between money valuation and its ensuing influence on risk perceptions and related behaviors, mainly focusing on financial education.
Design/methodology/approach
Executed in the Brazilian market, this study employs a quantitative approach, encompassing 663 participants and deploying comprehensive statistical methodologies – principally, structural equation modeling based on variances – to scrutinize the amassed primary data.
Findings
The insights from the study reveal a significant impact of both negative money value (NMV) and positive money value (PMV) on participants' financial decisions, profoundly shaping perceptions, acceptances and responses to risk. Consequently, this study underscores the pivotal role the perceived value of money plays in sculpting financial behaviors and formulating risk management strategies. Distinctly, this research emphasizes intrinsic monetary values, extending unprecedented insights by delineating aversive behaviors toward losses and risks and probing the repercussions of both negative and positive monetary values.
Originality/value
It acts as an avant-garde exploration, unveiling new perspectives on upcoming consumers' anticipated financial decision-making approaches and pinpointing areas warranting deeper exploration and comprehension within the fluid consumer market landscape.
Propósito
Esta investigación arroja luz sobre los distintos comportamientos y percepciones en la toma de decisiones relacionadas con el valor atribuido al dinero, descubriendo matices en la interrelación entre la valoración del dinero y su influencia subsiguiente en las percepciones de riesgo y comportamientos relacionados, centrándose principalmente en la educación financiera.
Diseño/Metodología/Enfoque
Ejecutado en el mercado brasileño, este estudio emplea un enfoque cuantitativo, abarcando a 663 participantes y desplegando metodologías estadísticas integrales, principalmente el Modelado de Ecuaciones Estructurales basado en varianzas, para escrutar los datos primarios acumulados.
Resultados
Las percepciones obtenidas en el estudio revelan un impacto significativo tanto de los Valores Negativos como de los Valores Positivos del Dinero en las decisiones financieras de los participantes, moldeando profundamente percepciones, aceptaciones y respuestas al riesgo. En consecuencia, este estudio subraya el papel fundamental que desempeña el valor percibido del dinero en la formación de comportamientos financieros y en la formulación de estrategias de gestión de riesgos. De manera distintiva, esta investigación enfatiza los valores monetarios intrínsecos, ampliando perspectivas sin precedentes al delinear comportamientos aversivos hacia pérdidas y riesgos y explorar las repercusiones de los valores monetarios negativos y positivos.
Originalidad
Actúa como una exploración vanguardista, desvelando nuevas perspectivas sobre los enfoques de toma de decisiones financieras anticipadas por parte de los consumidores emergentes y señalando áreas que requieren una exploración y comprensión más profundas dentro del dinámico panorama del mercado de consumidores.