Kalinga Jagoda, Robert Lonseth and Adam Lonseth
The steady incline in oil prices combined with the recent credit crisis and downturns in financial markets has driven organizations to re‐evaluate their manufacturing processes…
Abstract
Purpose
The steady incline in oil prices combined with the recent credit crisis and downturns in financial markets has driven organizations to re‐evaluate their manufacturing processes and bottom line. The purpose of this paper is to suggest a bottom‐up approach that may be used by firms in planning, managing and forecasting productivity improvements.
Design/methodology/approach
A multiple‐case study approach was used: two comprehensive cases and seven short cases were used to illustrate the model.
Findings
The lack of understanding of the relationship between productivity, profitability and performance has led to the application of piece‐meal solutions for problems in productivity. Bottom‐up approach in improving productivity will provide better results than top‐down approach.
Originality/value
This paper describes the bottom‐up approach which has been successfully used for managing productivity improvement initiatives.
Details
Keywords
Kalinga Jagoda, Bharat Maheshwari and Robert Lonseth
This paper aims to explore and illustrate the technology transfer (TT) experiences of a small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME), Rayton Packaging, using the stage‐gate approach to…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore and illustrate the technology transfer (TT) experiences of a small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME), Rayton Packaging, using the stage‐gate approach to TT as an inquiry lens.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach described in this case conceptualizes TT as a process consisting of a set of stages and decision gates.
Findings
A TT project cannot be considered to be effective unless it also leads to profitability and growth for the firm. In today's global business setting, TT should be seen only as a component of business strategy and not in isolation as a technology project.
Originality/value
This paper describes the stage‐gate approach which has been successfully used for managing new product development programs in large firms.
Details
Keywords
Nada Al Mehrzi and Sanjay Kumar Singh
The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework through which to understand, predict and control factors affecting employee engagement in the public sector in the United Arab…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework through which to understand, predict and control factors affecting employee engagement in the public sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Design/methodology/approach
The paper examines research conducted in the area of employee engagement and proposes a conceptual framework that can be used by practitioners to engage employees and motivate them toward organizational growth and sustainability.
Findings
In line with the literature-based analysis, a framework of employee engagement was developed, illustrating the linkage between leader, team, perceived organizational support and organizational culture that is being mediated by employee motivation.
Research limitations/implications
Employee engagement as exemplified in this study is well suited for use in the public sector in the UAE. Further empirical study should be undertaken to ascertain the effect of the proposed framework and hypotheses.
Practical implications
The study incorporates determinants of employee engagement in a framework that practitioners can make use of to identify interventions with which to engage and retain talented employees for organizations’ benefit.
Originality/value
This paper provides a comprehensive framework that contributes to the conceptualization of employee engagement and will help practitioners as well as academics to understand the underlying causes of disengagement in organizations.