Rosa Capolupo, Vito Amendolagine and Giovanni Ferri
The purpose of this paper is to assess whether offshoring strategies are able to substantially enhance firms’ international competitiveness in terms of productivity…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to assess whether offshoring strategies are able to substantially enhance firms’ international competitiveness in terms of productivity, innovativeness and skill composition for a panel of Italian manufacturing firms.
Design/methodology/approach
A set of hypotheses derived from the extant literature is tested on data from balance sheets and qualitative surveys of about 4,000 Italian firms. The methodology used is a propensity score matching estimator and difference in differences method that allowed the authors to detect the causal effect of the offshoring status of the firms on some performance measures.
Findings
Results demonstrate that offshoring increases the propensity to innovate and the skill ratio of workers but does not show a significant association with productivity growth. The estimates are robust in all the specifications.
Research limitations/implications
The results are applicable to Italian firms. The magnitude and timing of the effects may vary across firms and countries.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the empirical literature on offshoring by exploring its impact on a variety of firms’ performance measures by using matching techniques that allow us to investigate more in depth the causality link of the relationship and to control for the self-selection effect (more productive firms self-select to offshore).
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Angelo Rosa, Nicola Capolupo, Emilia Romeo, Olivia McDermott, Jiju Antony, Michael Sony and Shreeranga Bhat
This study aims to fully assess the readiness for Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and Quality Performance Improvement (QPI) in an Italian Public Healthcare ecosystem.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to fully assess the readiness for Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and Quality Performance Improvement (QPI) in an Italian Public Healthcare ecosystem.
Design/methodology/approach
Drawing from previously established survey development and adaptation protocols, a replication study was carried out; Lean, Six Sigma and QPI were extracted and validated through confirmatory factor analysis in an Italian Public Healthcare setting, with a sample of health professionals from the Campania region.
Findings
This study reports the adaptation of an existing scale for measuring LSS and QPI in an Italian public healthcare organisation. This analysis extracts six conceptual domains and constitutes an original adaptation of an existing scale to assess the readiness to adopt Lean, Six Sigma and Quality Performance in Italian Public Health Organizations. The constructs show strong levels of internal consistency, as demonstrated by each item factor loading and each subscale reliability.
Practical implications
Managers, policymakers and academics can employ the proposed tool to assess the public healthcare ecosystem’s capability to implement LSS initiatives and strategies to improve quality performance.
Originality/value
This is one of the first studies to assess cross-regional organisational readiness for LSS and QPI in an Italian Public Healthcare environment at this scope and level.
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This paper reviews one of the crucial issues in the recent growth literature concerning the hypothesis of cross country convergence of levels and growth rates of income per capita…
Abstract
This paper reviews one of the crucial issues in the recent growth literature concerning the hypothesis of cross country convergence of levels and growth rates of income per capita implied by the neo‐classical growth model, both in the Solow‐Swan and Rampsey‐Cass‐Koopmans versions. The alternative endogenous growth models, consistent with permanent income inequality, are considered. Convergence to a common income level versus divergence is discussed from a theoretical point of view. Then, empirical tests of the convergence property are presented. What emerges is that Barro type regressions and their findings about “conditional” convergence are questionable and cannot be used to give a definitive response on this issue.
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Berhanu Tolosa Garedew, Daniel Kitaw Azene, Kassu Jilcha and Sisay Sirgu Betizazu
The study presented healthcare service quality, lean thinking and Six Sigma to enhance patient satisfaction. Moreover, the notion of machine learning is combined with lean service…
Abstract
Purpose
The study presented healthcare service quality, lean thinking and Six Sigma to enhance patient satisfaction. Moreover, the notion of machine learning is combined with lean service quality to bring about the fundamental benefits of predicting patient waiting time and non-value-added activities to enhance patient satisfaction.
Design/methodology/approach
The study applied the define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) method. In the define phase, patient expectation and perception were collected to measure service quality gaps, whereas in the measure phase, quality function deployment (QFD) was employed to measure the high-weighted score from the patient's voice. The root causes of the high weighted score were identified using a cause-and-effect diagram in the analysis phase.
Findings
The study employed a random forest, neural network and support vector machine to predict the healthcare patient waiting time to enhance patient satisfaction. Performance comparison metrics such as root-mean-square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and R2 were accessed to identify the predictive model accuracy. From the three models, the prediction performance accuracy of the support vector machine model is better than that of the neural network and random forest models to predict the actual data.
Practical implications
Lean service quality improvement using DMAIC, QFD and machine learning techniques can be generalized to predict patient waiting times. This study provides better realistic insights into patient expectations by announcing waiting times to enable data-driven service quality deliveries.
Originality/value
Prior studies lack lean service quality, Six Sigma and waiting time prediction to reduce healthcare waste. This study proposes lean service quality improvement through lean Six Sigma (LSS), i.e. DMAIC and machine learning techniques, along with QFD and cause-and-effect diagram.
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Aqueeb Sohail Shaik, Monika Jain, Aparna Mendiratta, Ghadah Alarifi and Elisa Arrigo
The purpose of this study is to investigate the significance and impact of strategic knowledge management (SKM) practices and organisational change capacity (OCC) in improving…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the significance and impact of strategic knowledge management (SKM) practices and organisational change capacity (OCC) in improving strategic thinking and strategic orientation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their contribution in overall improvement of entrepreneurial performance.
Design/methodology/approach
Quantitative research methodology using partial least square structural equation modelling with data of 296 sample from the target group as managers and owners from various SMEs in the UK has been used in the study.
Findings
The findings suggest that SMEs that invest in SKM and OCC are more proficient at adjusting to fluctuations in the business landscape and develop effective strategies that lead to improved entrepreneurial performance. The study provides evidence that SKM encompasses more than just the acquisition and use of information. It also involves the establishment of a learning and innovation culture that facilitates strategic thinking and direction. Similarly, OCC is not just about implementing change but also about developing the agility and flexibility to adapt to market changes, consumer demands and technology.
Practical implications
According to the research, SMEs may boost their entrepreneurial performance and keep a competitive advantage in the modern, dynamic business environment by investing in SKM and OCC. The capacity of SMEs to implement SKM and organisational change should be encouraged and supported by policymakers and practitioners, who should also offer the necessary tools and assistance to do so.
Originality/value
This study offers a valuable addition to the previously published works on SKM and OCC within SMEs. It offers empirical data that highlights the significance of SKM and OCC in fostering strategic thinking, strategic orientation and ultimately, boosting entrepreneurial performance. The study also highlights the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing SKM and OCC and provides recommendations for overcoming these challenges.
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Evolved from Toyota’s shop floor in Japan, lean bundles are universally accepted for boosting manufacturing performance. However, extant literature shows mixed findings on the…
Abstract
Purpose
Evolved from Toyota’s shop floor in Japan, lean bundles are universally accepted for boosting manufacturing performance. However, extant literature shows mixed findings on the effectiveness of lean bundles in non-Japanese settings. This meta-analysis is aimed at understanding the influence of national culture (NC) differences on the lean bundles-performance relationships.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 224 effects from 12,569 observations across 48 empirical studies from 14 countries are meta-analyzed. Also, weighted least squares (WLS) meta-regression using NC scores from the Global Leadership and Organizational Behavior Effectiveness (GLOBE) study are conducted to test the moderating effect of NC dimensions.
Findings
The meta-analysis reveals a positive association between the lean bundles and firm performance; though, the strength of the association varies across the individual lean bundles. The meta-regression results show that lean practices are more effective in countries that value high future orientation, high collectivism, low-performance orientation and high assertiveness.
Originality/value
The results contribute to the literature on the role of local cultural influence on strategies and decisions related to the implementation of continuous improvement (CI) programs in cross-cultural settings.
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Mohsin Rasheed, Jianhua Liu and Ehtisham Ali
This study investigates the crucial link between sustainable practices and organizational development, focusing on sustainable knowledge management (SKM), green innovation (GI…
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the crucial link between sustainable practices and organizational development, focusing on sustainable knowledge management (SKM), green innovation (GI) and corporate sustainable development (CSD) in diverse Pakistani organizations.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employs a comprehensive research methodology involving advanced statistical techniques, such as confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling and hierarchical linear modeling. These methods are instrumental in exploring the complex interrelationships between SKM, GI, moderating factors and CSD.
Findings
This research generates significant findings and actively contributes to sustainable development. The following sections (Sections 4 and 5) delve into the specific findings and in-depth discussions, shedding light on how industry regulation, organizational sustainability priorities, workplace culture collaboration and alignment between green culture and knowledge management practices influence the relationships between SKM, GI and CSD. These findings provide valuable insights for the research community and organizations striving for sustainability.
Practical implications
The study’s findings have practical implications for organizations seeking to enhance their sustainability efforts and embrace a socially and environmentally conscious approach to organizational growth.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature on sustainable practices and organizational development. Researchers and business people can learn a lot from it because it uses advanced econometric models in new ways and focuses on the link between knowledge management, GI and sustainable corporate development.
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Shreeranga Bhat, E V Gijo and Vinayambika S Bhat
This article intends to comprehend the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach adopted in the aerospace industry in India for process improvement. This research has the objective of…
Abstract
Purpose
This article intends to comprehend the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach adopted in the aerospace industry in India for process improvement. This research has the objective of determining LSS deliverables such as Voice of Customer (VOC), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Critical-to-Quality (CTQ), project approach, deployment strategies and tools and techniques used to execute the project.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted an exploratory research methodology and a multiple case study analysis to draw robust inferences. The research is carried out in the Indian aerospace industry and analyses five case studies. The case studies were collated from the company via a case study protocol with pre-defined criteria. Also, a semi-structured interview is conducted with the stakeholders of each case study to determine the deployment strategies followed during the respective projects.
Findings
It is reconfirmed that LSS is crucial in the aerospace industry, particularly in engine and gear shops, to reduce rework and rejections. Also, it was found that cost and time savings are essential KPIs. Some LSS projects require multiple CTQs for process improvement in aero industries. The DMAIC approach is used for project execution, with the Design of Experiment (DOE) being an essential tool. Top management engagement, effective HRM practices, customer focus, cross-functional collaboration and clear roles are essential for successful LSS projects. Eventually, a road map was developed based on the analysis of multiple case studies.
Research limitations/implications
The study is focused on the aerospace industry in India, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other industries or regions. The small sample size and reliance on qualitative data through semi-structured interviews may introduce subjectivity. Additionally, the long-term effects of LSS implementation, particularly in the context of evolving technologies, were not fully explored.
Practical implications
This study provides actionable insights for aerospace companies and related organisations to enhance quality and operational performance. The developed roadmap offers a practical guide for LSS deployment, helping organisations improve efficiency and competitiveness, especially in an era of economic slowdown and high competition.
Originality/value
The study reveals similarities and differences in LSS deliverables in Indian aerospace industries, creating a roadmap and tool matrix for project execution and serving as a template for manufacturing industries.
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Paolo Capolupo, Antonio Messeni Petruzzelli and Lorenzo Ardito
Given the limited understanding of the process of transgenerational entrepreneurship and that knowledge is a fundamental antecedent of entrepreneurial endeavors, this study aims…
Abstract
Purpose
Given the limited understanding of the process of transgenerational entrepreneurship and that knowledge is a fundamental antecedent of entrepreneurial endeavors, this study aims to shed light on how entrepreneurial families (EFs) nurture entrepreneurship across generations, which knowledge is required within the EF to spur new entrepreneurial activities, and how is this knowledge acquired.
Design/methodology/approach
Considering the paucity of empirical evidence on the topic under investigation and the related exploratory nature of this study, the authors adopted a qualitative approach by conducting a case study on an Italian wine-making family business.
Findings
The case analysis reveals that EF members are required to acquire different types of knowledge at different generational stages to spur new entrepreneurial activities, specifically technical knowledge in the second generation and business knowledge in the third generation. Moreover, the data analysis shows two mechanisms, namely, trust among generations and role separation, that, during both generational transitions, enabled and empowered the younger generations to exploit their knowledge to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and engage in new entrepreneurial activities.
Originality/value
This study provides novel insights into the role of knowledge in transgenerational entrepreneurship, particularly looking at knowledge acquired by EF members across generations. Accordingly, this research contributes to the literature streams of transgenerational entrepreneurship, knowledge management in family businesses and broader knowledge management research.
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Maria Vincenza Ciasullo, Alexander Douglas, Emilia Romeo and Nicola Capolupo
Lean Six Sigma in public and private healthcare organisations has received considerable attention over the last decade. Nevertheless, such process improvement methodologies are…
Abstract
Purpose
Lean Six Sigma in public and private healthcare organisations has received considerable attention over the last decade. Nevertheless, such process improvement methodologies are not generalizable, and their effective implementation relies on contextual variables. The purpose of this study is to explore the readiness of Italian hospitals for Lean Six Sigma and Quality Performance Improvement (LSS&QPI), with a focus on gender differences.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey comprising 441 healthcare professionals from public and private hospitals was conducted. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine the mean scores on the LSS&QPI dimensions based on hospital type, gender and their interaction.
Findings
The results showed that public healthcare professional are more aware of quality performance improvement initiatives than private healthcare professionals. Moreover, gender differences emerged according to the type of hospital, with higher awareness for men than women in public hospitals, whereas for private hospitals the opposite was true.
Research limitations/implications
This study contributes to the Lean Six Sigma literature by focusing on the holistic assessment of LSS&QPI implementation.
Practical implications
This study informs healthcare managers about the revolution within healthcare organisations, especially public ones. Healthcare managers should spend time understanding Lean Six Sigma as a strategic orientation to promote the “lean hospital”, improving processes and fostering patient-centredness.
Originality/value
This is a preliminary study focussing on analysing inter-relationship between perceived importance of soft readiness factors such as gender dynamics as a missing jigsaw in the current literature. In addition, the research advances a holistic assessment of LSS&QPI, which sets it apart from the studies on single initiatives that have been documented to date.