Veera Pandiyan Kaliani Sundram, Prem Chhetri and Atika Shamsul Bahrin
This paper presents the concerns in manufacturing supply chain. Further this study investigates the role of information technology (IT) and information sharing (IS) in…
Abstract
This paper presents the concerns in manufacturing supply chain. Further this study investigates the role of information technology (IT) and information sharing (IS) in manufacturing supply chain and determines its impact towards supply chain integration (SCI), supply chain performance (SCP), and manufacturing firm performance (FP) in Malaysia. The theoretical framework was proposed for the study on the basis of existing literature. The study administered a survey questionnaire to collect data from manufacturing firms in Malaysia with 112 respondents. A multiple regression analysis is conducted to establish the relationship between IT, IS, SCI, and FP. The study finds that IT and sharing has significant positive effect towards and performance. Firms that use IT and practice IS across partners in the supply chain are more likely to integrate their internal and external value chain for better performance both within and across the manufacturing firms in the supply chain. This study can be of interest to the manufacturing industry as well as other industry practitioners interested in improving the performance of the organization and supply chain in total. For supply chain practitioners, this results indicate that the firms should adopt IT and IS practices to strategically improve SCI. This in turn will also improve the supply chain network and firm’s performance. This study employs a newly developed framework which depicts the causal relationship between IT, IS, SCI, Supply Chain Performance, and FP in Malaysia. Furthermore, it closes a gap in existing literature by examining the effect IT and communication (ICT) practices toward manufacturing firms’ performance and SCP in a single setting. In addition, the current study attempted to construct a model which would estimate and interpret SCP and FP simultaneously, and to evaluate this model in an empirical fashion.
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Tariq Ahmed, V.G.R. Chandran and Jane Klobas
There is a long-standing debate on whether the entrepreneurship education program (EEP) of university graduates can promote entrepreneurship intention and behaviour. The purpose…
Abstract
Purpose
There is a long-standing debate on whether the entrepreneurship education program (EEP) of university graduates can promote entrepreneurship intention and behaviour. The purpose of this paper is to use the theory of planned behaviour as a conceptual framework and compare the differences in entrepreneurial attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intentions among students who participated in entrepreneurship education with a control group of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students in Pakistan. The study further examines what drives intentions between the two groups.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected using a questionnaire survey from 348 entrepreneurship students and 329 MBAs in their final year (both groups did a total of four years’ tertiary study). One-way analysis of variance test and regression analysis were used to examine the differences and the antecedents of entrepreneurship intention between the two groups.
Findings
MBAs have higher entrepreneurial intentions (EIs) than EEP students and the EIs are statistically significant. Nevertheless, the authors did not find any differences in attitude, perceived control behaviour and subjective norms towards entrepreneurship in both the groups. The entrepreneurship intentions of the MBA students are more influenced by social pressure as opposed to EEP students who are influenced by perceived control behaviours.
Research limitations/implications
First, although the study introduced a control group, comparisons were based only on EIs and their antecedents in participants’ final year of study. This cross-sectional design provides no information about how much intentions and antecedents changed over time. A longitudinal study would provide information about such changes. Second, the groups in the study were matched in terms of gender, age distribution, family background, years of study and presumed disposition towards running their business. It would be useful if future comparative and longitudinal research measured these individual factors and their effects.
Practical implications
Educational activities render the starting of a business desirable and feasible by changing the attitudes and intentions. Nevertheless, various exposures to the challenges of being an entrepreneur via the education programmes may lower their intention to be entrepreneurs. As such, entrepreneurial programmes should be designed with care.
Social implications
The study provides some insights on improving EIs especially in understanding the antecedents that are important for nations, such as Pakistan which has high unemployment and widespread poverty.
Originality/value
This study provides fresh evidence on the role of entrepreneurship education by comparing EIs and the cognitive antecedents of intentions of the two groups – entrepreneurship as well as MBA students.
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Evelyn S. Devadason, V.G.R. Chandran Govindaraju and Shujaat Mubarik
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potentials and barriers to trade in the Malaysia–Chile partnership.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potentials and barriers to trade in the Malaysia–Chile partnership.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper estimates two-way export potentials from an augmented three-dimensional panel gravity model of bilateral trade between Malaysia and the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region, spanning the 1990–2014 period. Utilizing interviews with government officials and industry experts in Malaysia and Chile, this paper also provides insights into market access issues.
Findings
The empirical findings of this study suggest that Malaysia has trade potential in Chile, but Chile is “overtrading” with Malaysia. By major products traded, both countries are found to be “overtrading,” as the export basket remains concentrated in this partnership. Through the interviews, fewer restrictions are reported by the various stakeholders, as the extent of trade engagement remains somewhat low. The main challenge identified within specific sectors in both the countries relates mainly to procedures established to secure compliance with labeling regulations for food products.
Research limitations/implications
The sectoral findings reveal that there is indeed scope for expanding exports beyond the current major products traded, particularly in base metal and scientific and measuring equipment from the Malaysia and Chile perspectives, respectively. Thus, product diversification matters to intensify trade cooperation between the two countries. Non-tariff measures need to be streamlined by both parties to ensure further product diversification to food trade, particularly for Chile.
Originality/value
The limited literature on cross-regional trade within the broader framework of Southeast Asia and LAC only support the fact that potentials do exist but do not appear to provide much research evidence. Empirically, this paper will add to the existing literature on the potentials that hold in the Malaysia–Chile partnership. Further, a lack of adequate information remains on market access and other barriers in both the nations to facilitate decisions on trade opportunities. The findings of the study fill that vacuum of information pertaining to market access and trade facilitation through interviews with various stakeholders in Malaysia and Chile.
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Veera Pandiyan Kaliani Sundram, Abdul Razak Ibrahim and V.G.R. Chandran Govindaraju
The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of different dimensions of supply chain management practices (SCMP) on supply chain performance (SCP) in the electronics…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of different dimensions of supply chain management practices (SCMP) on supply chain performance (SCP) in the electronics industry in Malaysia.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed the quantitative method where convenience sampling and self‐administrated survey questionnaires were sent to 125 electronics firms in Malaysia. The research framework was tested using variance‐based structural equation model, the partial least squares (PLS) method.
Findings
The empirical results of PLS indicate that six of the seven dimensions of SCMP have a significant positive effect on SCP. Furthermore, agreed vision and goals shows a greater influence than other dimensions of SCMP.
Research limitations/implications
This study took a narrow focus solely on the electronics manufacturing industry with a relatively small sample size of respondents. Also the data were only collected from single respondents in an organization. However, being the first study to explore the dimensions of SCMP and how those dimensions relate to SCP, the study shapes the pathway for future research.
Practical implications
The results offer insights to SCM practitioners and policy makers on the importance of SCMP to increase the competitiveness of manufacturing industry in terms of SCP.
Originality/value
This study employs a newly developed framework based on existing theoretical arguments to empirically examine the relationship between two important factors, the SCMP and SCP. This study is perhaps one of the first to address the effect of SCMP that includes combination of comprehensive practices and system approach towards the overall performance of the supply chain.
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Ecotourism has emerged as a major sector in the global travel business in recent years. It emphasises the need for environmentally responsible travel and sustainable consumption…
Abstract
Ecotourism has emerged as a major sector in the global travel business in recent years. It emphasises the need for environmentally responsible travel and sustainable consumption of resources. Ecotourism, defined by its commitment to environmental conservation initiatives and ensuring community involvement, has seen substantial opportunities for the internet and digital technologies. The internet has become a great tool for promoting ecotourism sites, engaging people in conservation initiatives and facilitating responsible tourism practices. These prospects also have notified concerns, such as controlling online authenticity, guaranteeing equal benefits for local populations and mitigating the possible environmental implications of rising internet use in remote locations. As the internet continues to change the way people search, plan, book and experience their vacations to eco destinations, it also provides a unique opportunity to promote sustainable practices and improve the entire ecotourism experience. This chapter explores the evolving relationship between ecotourism and the internet, concentrating on the implications for the industry's long-term and sustainable growth. It will also discuss the possibilities of internet usage to promote sustainable growth in ecotourism by facilitating eco-friendly choices, boosting information transmission and encouraging responsible tourism behaviour. This chapter explores the opportunities for continuing conversation, growth of eco-tourism and promoting sustainable ecotourism growth by examining the role of the internet in defining the future of ecotourism.
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Veera Pandiyan Kaliani Sundram, VGR Chandran and Muhammad Awais Bhatti
The purpose of this paper is to employ a newly developed framework to examine the complex relationship between different components of supply chain practices, supply chain…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to employ a newly developed framework to examine the complex relationship between different components of supply chain practices, supply chain integration (SCI) and supply chain performance (SCP) in the Malaysian electronics sector.
Design/methodology/approach
This study utilizes survey data of 156 electronics firms in Malaysia and tested the research framework and hypotheses. In addition to the traditional approach of Barron and Kenny (1986), the Sobel test as well as a bootstrapping approach, which is deemed for small sample size, is used to formally test the indirect effects of SCI in the model.
Findings
SCI has fully and partially mediated the relationship between supply chain management practices (SCMPs) and SCP. SCI fully mediates the relationship between SCP and three of the SCMPs, namely, information quality, agreed vision and goals and postponement strategies. The relationship of supply strategic partnership, customer relation management, information sharing with SCP were partially mediated by SCI. Risk and reward sharing is found to be non-significant. These insights allow managers to effectively utilize the different components of SCMPs for SCI and performance.
Practical implications
For supply chain practitioners, the results of the study can be useful in integrating SCMPs and SCI on improving SCP. Practitioners should take into account the mediating effect of SCI in designing their supply chain management approach to production.
Originality/value
To the authors’ best knowledge, this paper is one of the first to address the mediating effect of SCI between SCMPs and overall performance of the supply chain.
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Akmal Aini Othman, Sofiah Abd Rahman, Veera Pandiyan KalIani Sundram and Muhammad Awais Bhatti
The purpose of this paper is to establish a link between marketing resources, procurement process coordination (PPC) and firm performance. To allow for greater understanding in…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to establish a link between marketing resources, procurement process coordination (PPC) and firm performance. To allow for greater understanding in the field of supply chain management, the present study looked into the coordination between the construction firms and their main building materials suppliers.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employed the quantitative method where stratified random sampling and self-administrated questionnaires were sent to respondents in the construction industry. The research framework was tested using structural equation modelling technique.
Findings
The empirical result revealed that marketing resources have positive and significant effects on PPC dimensions. It was also found that PPC (mainly joint operation planning and supplier relationship development dimensions) has significant positive relationship towards firm performance.
Research limitations/implications
This study focused solely on the firms in the construction industry and data collection was on a single respondent basis.
Practical implications
The findings of this study underlines some implication and suggests that construction industry players adopt and emphasise such orientations in order to enhance their performance – operational and customer performance in particular.
Originality/value
This study employed a newly developed framework based on the existing theoretical arguments to empirically examine the link between marketing resources, PPC and firm performance and offers fresh insights on the effects of PPC in linking marketing resources and firm performance. Besides that, since there are very limited studies that have taken the initiative to specifically list down the activities involved in the PPC, mainly in the context of the construction industry, this study offers a significant contribution.
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Sunil Babbar and Sameer Prasad
Lays a foundation for a comprehensive awareness and understanding of research in the area of international supply chain management. More specifically, reviews publications…
Abstract
Lays a foundation for a comprehensive awareness and understanding of research in the area of international supply chain management. More specifically, reviews publications constituting a decade of the most recent research in the three areas of international purchasing, inventory management and logistics in 22 leading academic and practitioner journals for the period 1986 through 1995. Through classification and review of this literature, enables a better understanding of this vast field while simultaneously making available a valuable source of information for academicians and practitioners to draw from. Discusses key research findings, provides an overall assessment of the research in these areas and shapes an agenda for future research by identifying important gaps in the literature.
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Leonid A. Dombrovsky and Wojciech Lipinski
The aim of this paper is to present advanced experimental–numerical methods for identification of spectral absorption and scattering properties of highly porous ceria ceramics in…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to present advanced experimental–numerical methods for identification of spectral absorption and scattering properties of highly porous ceria ceramics in the range of semi-transparency at room and elevated temperatures.
Design/methodology/approach
At room temperature, a period of quasi-steady oscillations of the sample surface temperature generated in response to recurrent laser heating at fixed values of the maximum and minimum temperature of the irradiated surface is measured along with the normal-hemispherical reflectance. Radiative properties are then identified using a combined heat transfer model. At elevated temperatures, an analytical solution proposed in an earlier study for zirconia ceramics is used to retrieve spectral absorption coefficient of ceria ceramics from the measured normal emittance.
Findings and Originality/value
This method can be used to obtain small absorption coefficient of ceria ceramics at room temperature. The required measurements of both the normal-hemispherical reflectance and the period of quasi-steady oscillations of the irradiated surface temperature of the ceramics sample between fixed values of the maximum and minimum temperatures can be readily conducted using thermal laboratory equipment. Another method has been suggested for identification of the spectral absorption coefficient of ceria ceramics at elevated temperatures. This method is based on a relation between the measured normal emittance of an isothermal sample and the absorption coefficient.
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This study aims to investigate the relationship between strategy intent (product-service innovation intention) and outcome (product-service innovation outcome), and the role that…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the relationship between strategy intent (product-service innovation intention) and outcome (product-service innovation outcome), and the role that external sources of innovation play in influencing this relationship.
Design/methodology/approach
Using data obtained from the community innovation survey, we apply a logit regression to a sample of 1,419 Portuguese firms. By examining the moderating effect of open innovation breadth, we assess how the relationship between differentiation intent and outcome is contingent upon the involvement of external stakeholders.
Findings
Our findings reveal that the relationship between differentiation intent and outcome is contingent upon the moderating effect of open innovation breadth. Our analysis suggests that the negative influence of different sources of innovation can be addressed by adopting a paradox lens.
Practical implications
This research provides valuable insights for managers. By simultaneously pursuing a differentiation strategy and engaging in collaboration with external sources, firms may compromise their ability to effectively differentiate their offer. Managers should consider the potential tensions arising from internal and external stakeholder relationships to optimize their innovation strategies.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the role of external innovation sources in influencing the relationship between differentiation intent and outcome and the importance that information systems may have in this relationship. By exploring the moderating effect of open innovation breadth, we provide a nuanced understanding of how firms can navigate organizational tensions and leverage innovation for competitive advantage.