Service Compatibility Research Articles

Last-train timetable synchronization for service compatibility maximization in urban rail transit networks with arrival uncertainties

The last train services of urban rail transit offer all passengers the final chance to reach their destinations. In the context of multimodal transport, considering the random delayed arrivals of late-night vehicles of other transport modes at urban hub stations and their adverse effects on multimodal passengers transferring to urban rail transit, a probabilistic scenario set is established to determine the arrival uncertainties of multimodal passengers. In each scenario, the timetable synchronization problem is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming model that requires a performance trade-off between destination reachability and the remaining path distance of both non-multimodal and multimodal passengers, integrally termed last train service compatibility. Through linearization techniques, the model is transformed into an equivalent mixed-integer linear programming form, which can be efficiently solved using the Gurobi solver to obtain the optimal last train timetable for each scenario and form an alternative scheme set. An improved probabilistic scenario set-based regret value theory is then developed, in which a novel regret value calculation method is proposed. The scheme with the minimum total weighted opportunity loss in all scenarios is selected as the optimal robust. Real case experiments based on the Chengdu–Chongqing high-speed railway line and Chengdu metro network are conducted to test the performance of our model. The results show that compared with the original timetable, the optimized timetable reduces the number of unreachable passengers by 34.29 % and the sum of the average remaining path distance of non-multimodal and multimodal passengers by 57.43 % with the help of path planning for all passengers. The proposed approach is proven not only to balance the demands of both reachable and unreachable passengers, but also to significantly improve the robustness of the last train timetable to arrival uncertainties of multimodal passengers and reduce their service inequity.

Usability and Challenges of Cloud Storage: Perspectives of Academic Staff at Mzumbe University, Tanzania

This study aimed to explore the perspectives, preferences and challenges of Mzumbe University faculty regarding cloud storage adoption. Utilizing a case study design, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 15 faculty members to capture diverse viewpoints. The study used the thematic analysis approach to analyse the data retrieved from interviews. Based on the findings, the study concluded that cloud storage systems have several advantages, such as easily accessibility features, robust security protocols, service compatibility and intuitive user interfaces. These benefits encourage academic personnel to collaborate and increase productivity. However, some challenges existed. These related with internet access, cost, lack of formal training and security. The study recommends that enhancing the university internet infrastructure is critical to guaranteeing reliability and fast connectivity for effective utilization of cloud storage. The university may also thing of offering financial assistance for supplementary storage requirements to academic staff.

IMPROVING THE PROCESSES OF ENSURING THE AIRWORTHINESS OF AIRCRAFT BY CREATING A HIGH-SPEED HETEROGENEOUS INFORMATION SYSTEM

The problem of forming the appearance of a high-speed heterogeneous information system for monitoring airworthiness during the operation of aviation equipment is considered. A mixed-integer model has been formed for forming the optimal data transmission path for verifying the authenticity of airway components, where integer variables determine the set of external systems from where and where data is transmitted, a set of data warehouses and connections between them, and continuous variables – characteristics of data transfer rates by web services and bandwidth of data transmission channels. The criterion for choosing the optimal solution is proposed – the time of data transfer between external data source systems and external data consumer systems, taking into account data warehouses. An algorithm for optimizing the structure and parameters of a heterogeneous information system has been developed, which ensures the organization of information interaction between heterogeneous data sources/consumers in a minimum time. It is shown that the problem under consideration relates to difficult combinatorial optimization problems, that is, there is no polynomial algorithm for solving it in a reasonable time. However, taking into account the specifics of the task, in some cases, allows you to build calculation schemes that provide sufficient accuracy of the solution and an acceptable time. After conducting a brief analysis of possible solutions, including Dijkstra, Johnson, Floyd – Warshall, the authors implemented computational procedures based on the Bellman – Ford method, the main advantages of which are the possibility of obtaining an accurate solution, no restrictions when working with negative edges of the network graph, low value of the algorithm execution time. The results of calculations are presented and the possibility of reducing the data transfer time by 20,2 % is shown by choosing the optimal connections between data sources and consumers, taking into account the data formats of the sources used and the compatibility of web services providing their processing.

Rules as Code in Telecommunication Industry: Routing in Fiber Optics Networks

Abstract Rules as Code refers to the idea of creating and ratifying laws which can be easily encoded and accepted by computing systems, ensuring a truly digital mode of governance. Through this methodology of integrating machine-readable legislation into the governance process, all systems that involve the usage of laws can be transfigured into more agile forms, eliminating the degrees of separation that appear when normal legislation must be adapted into serviceable formats for various industries. In the context of engineering, the need to translate laws into actionable instructions is enhanced, especially with the advent of AI-tools, machine learning and large language models, which require proper, concise and relevant input data to ensure the output comes out as requested. The concept is extremely new - its research started a few years ago and currently; a number of states and universities are exploring methodologies to employ the concept of Rules as Code in both the lawmaking and project-making processes. In this scientific paper we endeavor to study the case of applying Rules as Code in the field of fiber-optic network design, in particular looking at the legislation which governs this process in Romania, and to interpret it through the aforementioned Rules as Code lens. Special interest will be given to practical implementations of the concept in this field, as the constraints that can be extracted through the implementation have an important impact in how network projects are developed. The results can lead to improved efficiency in the development of projects, considering the fact that interpreting the legislation and evaluating the network in regards to legislation compliance is one the most time and resource consuming parts of the overall process. The progress of Rules as Code ensures digital compatibility for citizen-centered services, governance and jurisdiction, being an essential step in the Digital Transformation.

Navigating transatlantic power dynamics in ICT standardization – The case of ETSI

Standards are the foundation of global trade facilitating the compatibility and interoperability of goods and services through institutional coordination to reduce transaction costs, shape technological choices, and market access. Such private transnational rulemaking has faced increased competition in key technological sectors. In Europe, ETSI has been critical for the European telecommunications market in the aftermath of liberalization of national monopolies as Europe sought to enhance market power to attract European and non–European firms to develop key technological standards. With the standardization strategy in 2022, the European Union has requested the revision of internal governance and operating norms of ETSI to strengthen European economic interests and social values. This has generated concern in the United States over the increase in government–based membership at the expense of a more open model. As international leadership in standards continues to be challenged by China, the US and EU have highlighted the importance of values–based standards. This has generated efforts to promote cooperation with strategic partners. The reform of ETSI could be viewed as a defensive strategy at odds with its globally oriented model of standards development and may undermine its legitimacy as a leading open and inclusive standards body in the field.

The compatibility of tourism and hospitality services with people of determination in Luxor and Aswan

The compatibility of tourism and hospitality services with people of determination in Luxor and Aswan

Virtual reality-based online learning system adoption: a research framework and empirical study

PurposeVirtual reality (VR) offers unprecedented immersion and interactivity in education, and working and learning from home have become the norm during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study empirically investigated the factors affecting the use of a VR online learning system (VROLS).Design/methodology/approachTo explore factors affecting users’ continuance behavioral intentions toward using VROLSs, a research framework was formed comprising factors that constitute benefits (i.e. pull factors) and costs (i.e. push factors); these factors included perceived value, flow and social influence. The data for this study were collected via online survey questionnaires. A total of 307 valid responses were used to examine the hypotheses in the research model, employing structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques.FindingsPerceived value, flow experience and the number of peers using VR primarily affect the decision to adopt a VROLS. The pull factors of spatial presence, entertainment and service compatibility, along with the push factors of complexity and visual fatigue, affect perceived value. Therefore, we conclude that perceived value is a primary factor positively influencing both flow experience and the decision to adopt the service.Originality/valueThis study contributes to a theoretical understanding of factors that explain users’ intention to use VROLSs.

Theoretical Foundations of the Service Sector Functioning at the Present Stage

Introduction. The modern context of a practical shift towards the service sector requires to study it from a theoretical perspective. Despite a sufficient number of publications on the topic of services, many authors do not provide corresponding grounds when identifying classification groups of services. This article focuses on the specific aspects of clarifying the concept of "service", essential classification of services and functions. Materials and Methods. The theoretical basis of the research included articles from peer-reviewed journals and monographs on the topic under study. A wide range of general scientific methods was applied in the research, including analysis and synthesis, abstract-logical, systemic analysis and others. Results. Characteristics of material and immaterial services were provided in comparison, which allows for a better emphasis on the features of their provision and consumption. This approach takes into account the specifics of consumers and their role in the process, as well as the qualifications of the personnel when planning activities in the service sector. Important issues of service compatibility and service function allocation are addressed. The study highlights the need to include education and culture in the value-oriented function of services. Due to the inability of consumers to clearly express their social and spiritual needs, the authors argue for the importance and tasks of service industry workers to assist clients in forming their essential needs. Conclusions. The article compares the most important characteristics of service differentiation based on various classifications, including its specificity, evaluation, producers, producer-consumer relationships, and production technology.

Integrated Value Engineering with QFD and DFA as Product Design and Development Techniques: Literature Review

Value engineering is an organized, rigorous strategy that assesses the performance, noise, quality, safety, and compatibility of systems, outfits, installations, services, and inventories to deliver necessary functionalities at the lowest life cycle cost. Eliminating unnecessary expenses from design, testing, production, operations, procedures, accounting, conservation, and other areas is the best course of action. The purpose of the paper's initial investigation was to list the drawbacks of value engineering in product creation. These transgressions highlight the necessity for alternative methods when implementing value engineering techniques. To address critical inverse issues throughout the process, from the stage of product demand analysis to product design, product, and operation, value engineering is combined with various engineering methods. The results demonstrate that there are distinct paths in which the benefit of integration engineering using QFD or DFA may be used. Even so, this integration is providing a better option for the planning of products or services through a process that not only means providing a better value for client satisfaction but also lowers expenses, shortening development times, and reducing the need for rework conditions—all without compromising performance, reducing anxiety, or lowering the quality of the final product.

Compatibility and Information Asymmetry in Online Matching Platforms

Firms seeking business partners and individuals seeking life partners face several challenges in addition to finding available candidates. One of these challenges is uncertainty about a candidate’s compatibility with the match-seeker on various subjective criteria. Another challenge is authentication of objective quality features, particularly in online settings where credentials can be easily misrepresented. Online matching platforms can address these challenges through counseling services that help assess mutual compatibility of match-seekers and authentication services to validate match-seekers’ credentials. Using a stylized model, we show that the platform’s decisions to offer counseling and authentication services are influenced by match-seeker behavior in response to factors such as the platform’s counseling capability, the composition of the matching market, and the interactions between the two services. This leads to optimal strategies for the platform that are not obvious and can even be counterintuitive. For instance, offering better counseling does not necessarily result in higher revenues for the platform. And it may be optimal for the platform to reduce its access fee when it decides to offer an authentication service. We also show that when the platform’s counseling capability is modest, an increase in this capability increases the value of authentication (i.e., counseling complements authentication); however, when the platform’s counseling capability is high, counseling and authentication become substitutes, because narrowing the search to only high-value candidates based on authentication can exclude some compatible candidates. Our analysis and results provide valuable insights for platform operators on the relative value of counseling and authentication, and for researchers studying matching platforms for vertically and horizontally differentiated markets. This paper was accepted by Hemant Bhargava, information systems. Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.03807 .

Профіль ободу коліс вантажного вагона з перспективними візками для умов спільної експлуатації на українських і європейських залізницях

To solve the important problem of speeding up the integration of Ukraine into the European railway transportation, an interest has recently grown in the introduction of automatic car transfer from one track gauge to another using gauge-changeable wheelsets, thus dispensing with truck exchange or transshipment and thereby significantly shortening the delivery time. However, the combined operation of trains on the Ukrainian (1,520 mm gauge) and European (1,435 mm gauge) railways calls for the compatibility of the wheel-rail contact pair on both railways: R65 rails and a cant of 1/20 in Ukraine and UIC60 rails and a cant of 1/40 in Europe. The goal of this work is to develop a wheel profile for a freight car with prospective 18-7020 trucks for combined operation on the Ukrainian and European railways and predict the ride performance of a car with that wheel profile and its dynamic interaction with rails on both railways. An investigation was conducted into the wheel?rail interaction indices and the ride performance of a freight car with prospective 18-7020 trucks and wheels with existing profiles. It was shown that it is expedient to develop a new wheel profile to improve the service compatibility of the Ukrainian and European networks. A number of new wheel profiles were constructed, the efficiency of each profile in terms of dynamic stability at service speeds and wheel flange wear on the Ukrainian and European railways was calculated, and a compromise profile, ITM-73ES, was chosen. It was shown that the use of the chosen profile in a car with 18-7020 trucks will offer a high dynamic performance and improved indices of wheel?rail interaction for both truck gauges.

Understanding consumers' purchase intention in virtual reality commerce environment

AbstractVirtual reality (VR) has developed rapidly and drawn the attention of businesses. E‐commerce practitioners have used VR to improve business performance and satisfy consumers' needs by enhancing the shopping experience and increasing purchase intention. To explore the effects of VR shopping platforms on purchase intention, this study developed a theoretical framework on the basis of task–technology fit. The framework comprises technological characteristics and user needs (intrinsic and extrinsic motivation) and can be used to investigate perceived needs–technology fit and identify factors affecting intention to purchase on VR platforms. This study distributed an online questionnaire and received 336 responses. Analysis was performed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The results suggested that purchase intention is stronger when perceived needs–technology fit is closer. Hedonic needs play a vital role in perceived needs–technology fit. In terms of technological characteristics, relative advantage, and service compatibility strongly affect perceived needs–technology fit. In addition, feelings of spatial presence, a key component of VR, positively affect relative advantage, service compatibility, and trialability and negatively affect complexity. The implications of the findings are also discussed.

"The library is so much more than books": considerations for the design and implementation of teen digital mental health services in public libraries.

Adolescence is a vulnerable developmental period, characterized by high rates of mental health concerns, yet few adolescents receive treatment. Public libraries support adolescents by providing them with access to teen programming, technological resources, and have recently been providing mental health services. Digital mental health (DMH) services may help libraries provide scalable mental health solutions for their adolescent patrons and could be well positioned to address the mental health needs of historically underrepresented racial and ethnic (HURE) adolescents; however, little research has been conducted on the compatibility of DMH services with adolescent patron mental health needs or resource needs of library workers supporting them. The research team formed a partnership with a public library, which serves a large HURE adolescent population. We conducted needs assessment and implementation readiness interviews with 17 library workers, including leadership, librarians, and workers with specialized areas of practice. Interview questions focused on library infrastructure, as well as library needs and preferences around the design and implementation of DMH services for adolescents. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research as guiding implementation determinant framework to code and analyze the interview transcripts. Our findings revealed library workers play an important role in guiding patrons to desired resources and share a goal of implementing adolescent DMH resources into the library and elevating marginalized adolescents' voices. Existing library resources, such as the library's role as a safe space for adolescents in the community, close relationships with external and community organizations, and availability of no-cost technological resources, could help facilitate the implementation of DMH services. Barriers related to community buy-in, mental health stigma, and library worker confidence in supporting adolescent mental health could affect service implementation. Our findings suggest public libraries are highly promising settings to deploy DMH services for adolescents. We identified important determinants that may impact the implementation of DMH services in public library settings. Special considerations are needed to design services to meet the mental health needs of HURE adolescent populations and those adolescents' most experiencing health inequities.

The role of midwives in implementing reproductive health services in Islamic Republic of Iran.

It is essential to study the availability of reproductive health services and the capacities of providers, to provide evidence for improving service quality. To identify the role of midwives in the provision of reproductive health services and recommend improvements. A national review of government health resources in the Islamic Republic of Iran was conducted to explore available reproductive health services. Through semi-structured interviews with 30 midwives, information was collected about the compatibility of services with the capacity and scope of the activities of midwives. A panel of 12 experts was assembled to develop a proposed service package. The content analysis method was applied to data analysis and interpretation. The service package developed covered 82 services that midwives can offer at the 8 healthcare facility groups. Although midwives were trained to manage a range of primary and gynaecological care services, certain essential aspects of reproductive health services were not being delivered on the frontline. These include sexually transmitted diseases and human papilloma virus management, diagnosis and treatment of common gynaecological problems, sexual education and counselling, and childbirth services. Midwives were not adequately engaged to provide reproductive health care at the secondary level. There are drawbacks to the current reproductive health service delivery in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The service package designed and proposed in this study aims to strengthen reproductive health care services and planning and better integration of midwife-led programmes.

ПРОБЛЕМЫ РАЗВИТИЯ ИНФОРМАЦИОННЫХ СИСТЕМ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ПРЕДПРИНИМАТЕЛЬСКИМИ СТРУКТУРАМИ

The article identifies the problems of the development of information management systems of business structures. The scientific novelty and practical significance of the work lies in the substantiation of the problems of flexibility, functional inter-system compatibility and coordination of business processes and technical services in information management systems of business structures capable of tracking changes in the institutional environment and maintaining inter-organizational relationships to guarantee sustainable economic growth. The ways of solving the analyzed problems are formed by introducing a mediator element into the information management system. The non-functional properties that can make changes to the infrastructure of the information management system of an entrepreneurial structure and influence its development in the conditions of adaptation are determined.

The institutional support index: A pragmatic approach to assessing the effectiveness of institutions' climate risk management support-A case study of farming communities in Pakistan

The effects of climate change are global and will worsen in the future. People face uncontrollable large-scale events due to the crisis. To manage climate-induced risks, understanding all threats is crucial. A country's governance system is responsible for risk management. Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climatic disasters, making its governance system crucial. To achieve climate risk resilience, farmers need tailored institutional services. This study investigates the efficacy of such services in Punjab province, Pakistan. Four hundred eighty farmers in Punjab's mixed cropping zone were interviewed face-to-face using a predesigned structured questionnaire to collect data on five types of institutionally provided services (e.g., weather and climate forecasts, farm advisory, financial services, technical support, and training). Institutional support for climate risk management is assessed using an indicator-based index approach by selecting four indicators/dimensions reflective of service effectiveness (e.g., content coverage, service accessibility, compatibility, and usefulness). The survey results showed that farmers had varying perceptions of institutional services, with low-medium levels of support and fair content coverage, accessibility, and usefulness. Most services lacked compatibility. Researchers recommend improving agricultural service compatibility to build farming communities' resilience to climate risks.

Continuous intention to use e-wallets in Indonesia: The impact of e-wallets features

Increased use of e-wallets in Indonesia has resulted in high competition among providers. Hence, companies must act to retain customers and impose continuous utilization of their services. This study aimed to investigate the determinants of continuous intention to use the preferred e-wallet in Indonesia. The framework was drawn from the technology continuance theory (TCT) with modifications to fit the e-wallet settings. This study assessed the effect of e-wallet features on continuous intention to use, with attitudes and satisfaction as intervening factors. Data were collected from the general population in Indonesia who uses e-wallets and possesses at least two accounts on different platforms. A total of 948 samples were generated using a web-based self-administrated survey. The data were analyzed using AMOS-SEM by assessing construct validity and reliability, as well as measurement and structural models. The analysis confirms the effect of attitudes and satisfaction on continuous intention. The findings also highlighted the positive impact of service compatibility and merchant networks on attitudes and satisfaction and the positive impact of perceived security toward satisfaction. Unexpected results revealed a strong and direct impact of value of reward programs and merchant networks toward continuance intentions. This study concludes that the modifications of TCT into the e-wallet settings can predict users’ post-adoption behavior. AcknowledgmentThis study is fully funded by the Directorate General of Higher Education of Indonesia with grant number 104/E4.1/AK.04.PT/2021; LPPM: T/37/UN.16.17/PT.01.03/PD UPT- Soshum/2021.

What Affects the Use Flexibility of Pocket Parks? Evidence from Nanjing, China

The use flexibility of pocket parks is one of the essential factors that determine their service compatibility, efficiency, and attraction for park users in densely populated cities. To examine the factors that affect the use flexibility of pocket parks, we collected data on the periodic use of 74 pocket parks through a field survey in Nanjing and adopted the Shannon Wiener diversity index to quantitatively measure this variable. After using a multiple regression model series, we examined the internal and surrounding factors that affect the use flexibility of pocket parks on weekdays and weekends, respectively, and compared them with those that affect the use intensity of pocket parks. The results showed that paved ground and the mixed use of surrounding land promoted both use flexibility and intensity of pocket parks. Boundary buildings and surrounding residents only promoted their use flexibility, while tree canopies and exercising facilities only promoted the use intensity of pocket parks. A significant correlation (p < 0.05) was also found between the use flexibility and intensity on weekdays. These findings can contribute to future decisions regarding pocket park planning and design in Nanjing and similar cities.

Privacy Calculus Theory in the Digital Government Context: The Case of Taiwan’s New eID Policy

Based on the case of the national electronic identification card (New eID) policy in Taiwan, this study integrated the government’s components with a privacy calculus model to analyze factors which affect personal data disclosure intention. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the survey data and explore how citizens balance benefits and risks associated with the New eID issue. The research results suggested that financial compensation, personalized services, and service compatibility can enhance cognition of privacy-related benefits of citizens, while this cognition will further increase willingness to authorize their personal data. Moreover, the impact of government elements on citizens’ willingness to authorize their personal information also has statistical backings. Citizens’ cognition of privacy-related risks, however, has no statistical effect within the model, which is contrary to findings from previous studies. The study attempted to make contributions to supplementing the connotation of an extant theoretical framework, and discussed the privacy-related questions concerning digital government.

Effects of diffusion of innovations, spatial presence, and flow on virtual reality shopping.

Virtual reality (VR) has developed rapidly, drawing more businesses to such development. Based on the diffusion of innovations theory (DIT), the study combines the flow theory and the satisfaction perspective to explore purchase intention influencing customers’ adoption of the VR shopping platform system. This study found that satisfaction and flow experience enhance their purchase intention. In technological characteristics, relative advantage, service compatibility, spatial presence, and complexity are important in satisfaction. Among them, both relative advantage and spatial presence impact flow experience. Additionally, a cluster analysis based on gender was conducted, and the study found a significant difference between relative advantages, service compatibility, and complexity in women and men users. The flow experience is an important factor affecting women users’ shopping intention, while insignificant for male users. The implications of these findings are discussed.