Search results

1 – 10 of 169
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 October 2003

S. Alshawi and W. Al‐Karaghouli

This paper reflects on experiences when traditional IT approaches were used to design large IT systems and ended in failure. The main reflections focus on the reasons for system…

1597

Abstract

This paper reflects on experiences when traditional IT approaches were used to design large IT systems and ended in failure. The main reflections focus on the reasons for system failure and how they relate to the diversity of knowledge, managing knowledge, and the understanding gaps that may exist between the business and the system developers. The study reveals that the understanding gaps mainly result from lack of knowledge of business operations on the developer side, matched by lack of technical appreciation and knowledge on the user side. To help address the knowledge‐gap problem, a practical approach employing soft‐systems, diagramming and set mapping techniques is proposed and described.

Details

Logistics Information Management, vol. 16 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-6053

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

W. Al‐Karaghouli, S. Alshawi and G. Fitzgerald

Reflects on experiences when traditional IT approaches were used to design large IT systems and ended in failure.

1240

Abstract

Purpose

Reflects on experiences when traditional IT approaches were used to design large IT systems and ended in failure.

Design/methodology/approach

The requirements‐gathering process is usually a very complex affair and can represent a major obstacle to successful system development. It is argued here that one reason for systems development projects' poor performance, or even failure, is the mismatch between the customer and the developer technical knowledge/understanding instigated by the differences in the cultural background of both sides. The main argument focuses on the reasons for system failure and how they relate to the diversity of knowledge and the understanding gaps that may exist between the business customers and the system developers.

Findings

The study reveals that the understanding gaps mainly result from lack of business operations knowledge on the developer side, matched by lack of technical appreciation and knowledge on the user side.

Originality/value

A practical approach using diagramming and Set mapping techniques is described, with an explanation of how it can be used to enhance human interaction in requirement identification and consequently help address the knowledge‐gap problem.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 23 March 2010

Shauneen Furlong and Wafi Al‐Karaghouli

Owing to inadequate implementations of project management (PM) procedures and processes, many large information technology systems (ITS) projects failed to deliver its promises…

2338

Abstract

Purpose

Owing to inadequate implementations of project management (PM) procedures and processes, many large information technology systems (ITS) projects failed to deliver its promises. Also, many of the failures in the implementation of large ITS projects around the world have been attributed to inadequate PM action. This criticism encompasses e‐government project initiatives which have attempted ambitious program change, major innovations, large transformations, enterprise wide solutions, collaboration across organisations, governments and private sectors, and the implementation of unprecedented (or ambitious) solutions. The purpose of this paper is to examine these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper forms part of an ongoing research of a PhD degree to describe, critically evaluate and examine the underlying barriers and challenges in large e‐government initiatives. Also, this paper examines change in organisations due to the change in the global economy and global information society as new technology is changing the nature of work. It identifies and examines the current and foreseeing problems with large e‐government projects and describes how a sociotechnical approach which takes into account, technical, business, citizen, economic needs in the creation of a sociotechnical ITS for future citizens. In addition, the paper offers a technology‐enabled enhancement to the project‐initiation phase, the area identified as being particularly weak and inadequate in addressing initial requirements of e‐government initiatives.

Findings

The paper proposes that technology can be incorporated into the professional practice of PM. It can also be a part of a passable solution as opposed to being distinct and separate from it. The PM supporting tools, as opposed to merely reporting actual versus plans have to increase the novelty (art and science) of PM through human interaction, empower the project manager and in aiding his capacity in delivering the expected outcomes.

Social implications

The paper demonstrates the value of effective project managers within the wider context of PM in transformational e‐government initiatives. It believes that this research will have an impact on three important areas, namely project management practice (PMC), e‐government projects and the transformation process of large projects in the public sector. This paper is about changing culture and practice of PMC in handling and managing large projects when different parties involve including outsourcing. This paper investigates and addresses, not only the transformation process of e‐government projects, but also, the transformation of PM professional culture (i.e. PMC) that delivers and works.

Originality/value

This research paper contributes to the existing literature of PM of large e‐government transformational processes. The paper addresses a number of e‐government challenges, by critically analysing and summarising a list of e‐government challenges and barriers arising from an e‐government survey administered on behalf of the World Information Technology and Services Alliance which represents the national technology associations in 70 countries. It compares these challenges to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK), which is the North American standard in PM methodology. Also, it highlights the weaknesses in PMBOK to address these challenges and offers a technology‐enabled enhancement to the project‐initiation phase. This is the strength of this paper.

Details

Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 14 October 2013

Turki Alsudiri, Wafi Al-Karaghouli and Tillal Eldabi

The purpose of this paper is to discuss in depth the factors that lead to misalignment between the project management (PM) and the business strategy by investigating four case…

6287

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss in depth the factors that lead to misalignment between the project management (PM) and the business strategy by investigating four case studies in the telecommunications industry in Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to the limited research on the subject of the alignment of PM and business strategy, the methodology used in this research was a case study in depth interview.

Findings

The paper highlights the important factors that affect the process of aligning the PM to the business strategy. The companies that have strong alignment between the business strategy and the PM show successful projects outcome while the companies that have mismatch alignment show less successful projects outcome.

Research limitations/implications

The paper has investigated four telecommunications companies only. However, more companies will be better to compare the finding. Due to time constrains, the research has studied one project in each company. Each project was supporting one of the company's business strategies. More projects and business strategies will lead to clear picture of the alignment. Access to executives’ managers and CIO's was difficult. Several meetings were cancelled without short notice.

Practical implications

This paper helps the companies to implement their business strategies with embedding their projects in the overall strategy. Also, helps the PM team to execute the projects in a strategic way.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature with a clear explanation of the concept of the alignment and provides a framework to ensure the alignment between the large PM process and the business strategy is achieved.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 25 October 2018

Abdulaziz Marzouq Almutairi, Konstantinos Salonitis and Ahmed Al-Ashaab

Numerous and diverse organizations have implemented lean principles and practices, which concentrate on improving the efficiency of business processes by reducing cost, waste…

822

Abstract

Purpose

Numerous and diverse organizations have implemented lean principles and practices, which concentrate on improving the efficiency of business processes by reducing cost, waste, consumptions and effort. However, previous assessments have not focused on the leanness of the supply chain in a health-care setting. This paper aims to introduce a method for assessing the successful implementation of lean principles and tools in a supply chain. Furthermore, this paper validates the method in a health-care organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper starts with an extensive literature review on assessing leanness and using multi-grade fuzzy logic. Then, a conceptual model was developed to measure leanness. The conceptual model was validated by discussing the initial version with select academic experts, especially those who deal with leanness in health-care organizations. After responding to the experts’ valuable comments, the health-care organization that is the focus of this case study was chosen based on two criteria. The first criterion was the organization’s ability to participate in the study, and the second was the organization’s commitment to implementing lean principles. These criteria were important to ensure the organization had the necessary foundation for implementing change initiatives such as lean process improvements. Next, a multi-grade (multi-attributes) fuzzy logic was used for leanness measurement. A leanness index was calculated, and the results were validated using experts from the case study organization. Finally, the weaker areas of the organization’s processes were identified to point the way for further improvements.

Findings

The assessment indicated that the case study organization is not lean. The organization’s weaker attributes were identified, and improvements have been suggested.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused on a single health-care organization, which was selected from a limited pool of potential organizations, namely, organizations which are accredited by both the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions and the Joint Commission International. The scope of future research should be extended to multi-case studies to enhance the findings presented in this paper. This paper’s findings can be used to help decision-makers at health-care providers to implement lean thinking in supply chain processes.

Practical implications

This research may be interest to practicing supply chain managers, as it proposes what enablers, factors and attributes should be emphasized in lean implementation. The proposed model can work as an assessment tool to identify the gap between the present level of leanness and the desired leanness state so the health-care organization can identify what can be improved. This model enables decision-makers in hospital supply chain to take suitable actions for improving lean implementation level.

Originality/value

This study makes an original contribution to the body of research concerning lean principles; the study developed a conceptual model for leanness assessment that can be applied to the supply chain of health-care organizations. Indeed, the conceptual model is likely to be useful for assessing leanness outside of the health-care field, which suggests avenues for future research.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 10 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 29 January 2024

Thaer Faisal Abdelrahim Qushtom and Sami Sobhi Saleem Waked

The current study aimed to explore the extent of accounting graduates’ abilities (AGAs) in Jordan to use modern information technology systems (MITSs) to make optimal financial…

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore the extent of accounting graduates’ abilities (AGAs) in Jordan to use modern information technology systems (MITSs) to make optimal financial decisions (OFDs). To carry out this study, the descriptive analytical approach was used to collect and analyze data. Accordingly, an electronic questionnaire was designed and distributed to 5,000 students in 30 universities in Jordan. However, only 1,067 questionnaires were valid for analysis, which constituted the sample of study. To test the research hypotheses, the descriptive analysis and multivariate regression test were used. The results indicated that the majority of accounting graduates (AGs) in Jordanian universities (JUs) do not realize the importance role of MITSs to make OFDs. In addition, the biggest challenge face AGs in JUs is the weakness of current accounting curricula in JUs in terms of not including materials related to MITSs and the role of these systems in performing accounting tasks. Finally, the study found that the current abilities of AGs in JUs moderate negatively and significantly the positive relationship between the use of MITSs and making OFDs. Accordingly, the study recommended that JUs work on developing accounting curricula through including modern courses related to the use of MITSs in performing accounting tasks.

Details

Digital Technology and Changing Roles in Managerial and Financial Accounting: Theoretical Knowledge and Practical Application
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80455-973-4

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 2 December 2021

Kerri Cissna, Lene Martin, Margaret J. Weber and Amanda S. Wickramasinghe

The global pandemic has introduced a new normal as work–life integration (WLI) and work from home (WFH) have become a necessity rather than a nicety. This chapter explores the…

Abstract

The global pandemic has introduced a new normal as work–life integration (WLI) and work from home (WFH) have become a necessity rather than a nicety. This chapter explores the stories of women globally on WLI issues and offers a strategic framework for WFH that traces theoretical progressions while proposing a new perspective. This chapter is grounded in qualitative and phenomenological research, conducted by the Work–Life Integration Project, comprising findings from over 600 interviews collected from women around the world, including Costa Rica, India, Iran, Nigeria, Norway, Sri Lanka, Uganda, and the United States. These global narratives detail life experiences from childhood and adulthood to future goals using a life course methodology. A new best-practice framework emerged from these findings which provides tools for WLI and WFH: being whole, being innovative, and being real. These mechanisms stem from the evolution of work–life balance theory and practice, starting with Systems Theory, Life Course Framework, Life Stories and Gender Role, and Strategies for Life Balance. This chapter explores a new Life Integration Framework and how it may provide individuals worldwide with the knowledge and strategies necessary towards developing a more personalised ‘ideal’ and therefore increased hope and prosperity for the post-COVID world.

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 September 2010

Hanadi Mubarak Al‐Mubaraki and Michael Busler

Purpose: To identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of business incubator models and their potential use in worldwide. Methodology: We studied two…

1792

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of business incubator models and their potential use in worldwide. Methodology: We studied two international cases: (a) United States, (b) United Kingdom. Findings: The results highlight the similarities and differences between the countries. It adds knowledge for both academics and practitioners who are interested in business incubation. Value: This paper is the first to utilize the SWOT technique to analyze the business incubation field and provides recommendations to implement successful adoption of the incubator’s strengths. The potential of Business Incubators who act as models in worldwide and their contribution to the economy, the active role they play in the local, regional and national economic development are discussed. Implications: Adaptation of a Business Incubator Model leads to (1) the support of diverse economies, (2) the commercialization of new technologies, (3) job creation and (4) increases in wealth, given that weaknesses can be overcome.

Details

World Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development, vol. 6 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-5961

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 November 2021

Abdullahi Hassan Gorondutse, Gamal Abdualmajed Ali and Haim Hilman

Total quality management (TQM) must include orientation towards quality awareness in the overall organisational processes in a firm. A successful TQM needs a supportive culture…

2002

Abstract

Purpose

Total quality management (TQM) must include orientation towards quality awareness in the overall organisational processes in a firm. A successful TQM needs a supportive culture that can adapt to alterations and strengthen innovation. This study aims to confirm the association between the style of management known as organisational culture (OC) and TQM practices in manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Data-driven research was drawn from self-assessment inquiries among 772 managers/owners of manufacturing SMEs of the Saudi Arabia Kingdom (KSA). The dominant culture was detected by means of a cross-sectional technique.

Findings

The findings enrich the literature by revealing a positive effect of OC on TQM execution in the manufacturing SMEs of KSA.

Research limitations/implications

Prior to the execution of TQM operations, administrators of manufacturing SMEs should be aware of the culture within organisations so that TQM may be implemented.

Practical implications

The study suggests that organisations, particularly manufacturing SMEs, should constantly strive to enhance the TQM culture.

Social implications

Amid intense competition among manufacturing SMEs, it is crucial to guarantee their high performance. This research assists society in evaluating the strength of a particular SME sector and further enables it to assess which SMEs really have a good OC–TQM relation.

Originality/value

The paper creates and presents various platforms of the OC and TQM as a unified body of knowledge.

Details

RAUSP Management Journal, vol. 56 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2531-0488

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 2 January 2007

L.J. Yao, T.H.Y. Kam and S.H. Chan

The paper seeks to investigate how culture, attitudes and barriers affect knowledge sharing in a Hong Kong government department.

4570

Abstract

Purpose

The paper seeks to investigate how culture, attitudes and barriers affect knowledge sharing in a Hong Kong government department.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews and survey instruments were used to collect data for qualitative analysis.

Findings

Knowledge management and knowledge sharing were welcome ideas in the Hong Kong government department. Informal and tacit knowledge sharing took place but the Chinese culture remained as a barrier to knowledge sharing.

Research limitations/implications

As this is a study of one government department in one particular country, the findings may not be sufficiently generalizable.

Practical implications

Senior management in the public administration sector should be made more aware of what knowledge management can do to help improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

Originality/value

The study is an in‐depth analysis of one large government department's use of knowledge management, which has not been studied before. This study and its findings contribute significantly to the knowledge of how culture will affect knowledge management in the public administration sector.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

1 – 10 of 169
Per page
102050