Manufacture Of Goods Research Articles

Transaction cost theory, organisational ambidexterity, and digital platforms: an interpretative case study exploring the implementation of a business-to-business logistics digital platform in a South African organisation

Logistics costs represent a significant burden within South Africa's consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturing and retail supply chains. Amidst intensifying market competition and the pressing need for cost reduction, businesses are turning to digital platforms as a solution to optimise logistics efficiency while considering environmental sustainability. Despite the increasing interest in Business-to-Business (B2B) logistics digital platforms, limited case studies exist that explore their early-stage implementation, particularly in emerging markets. This paper examines the implementation of a B2B logistics digital platform within a South African CPG company, using Transaction Cost Theory (TCT) and Organisational Ambidexterity as theoretical lenses. Through semi-structured interviews and an interpretative case study approach, this study investigates how the platform has enabled cost reductions and enhanced operational efficiencies. The findings reveal that the successful implementation of such platforms depends on a sustainable commercial model underpinned by reliability, trust, and transparency. The study also highlights the critical role of organisational ambidexterity in navigating the challenges posed by digital platform implementation in emerging markets.

Transaction cost theory, organisational ambidexterity, and digital platforms: an interpretative case study exploring the implementation of a business-to-business logistics digital platform in a South African organisation

Logistics costs represent a significant burden within South Africa's consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturing and retail supply chains. Amidst intensifying market competition and the pressing need for cost reduction, businesses are turning to digital platforms as a solution to optimise logistics efficiency while considering environmental sustainability. Despite the increasing interest in Business-to-Business (B2B) logistics digital platforms, limited case studies exist that explore their early-stage implementation, particularly in emerging markets. This paper examines the implementation of a B2B logistics digital platform within a South African CPG company, using Transaction Cost Theory (TCT) and Organisational Ambidexterity as theoretical lenses. Through semi-structured interviews and an interpretative case study approach, this study investigates how the platform has enabled cost reductions and enhanced operational efficiencies. The findings reveal that the successful implementation of such platforms depends on a sustainable commercial model underpinned by reliability, trust, and transparency. The study also highlights the critical role of organisational ambidexterity in navigating the challenges posed by digital platform implementation in emerging markets.

Utilization of Palm Broom Cutting Waste in Making Briquettes as a Potential Alternative Energy Source

The development of the industry continues to grow and produce products that continue to have useful functions. Production in the manufacture of goods has important industrial problems that must be managed. In the process of producing coconut brooms, there is coconut fiber waste from cutting, where the waste if left alone will become garbage and be thrown away. In the study using quantitative descriptive research methodology, namely by explaining how to make briquettes from coconut broom waste and then calculating the benefits that can be obtained from the waste if used as charcoal briquettes. Coconut broom waste will be used as briquettes that have economic value and can be used as potential economic value for the surrounding community. This study is a continuation of previous studies. This study has a novelty located in the raw material from coconut broom waste where waste that is usually thrown away and becomes unused waste, in this study we utilize it into a material that has economic value, namely made into briquettes. Furthermore, after the briquettes are made, the briquettes will be analyzed by looking at the Economic Feasibility Analysis, namely how much capital is needed and how much profit can be obtained, in this study the profit that can be obtained is IDR. 43,000.00 if we sell 10 packs for IDR. 10,000.00/pack.

A Review on 3D Printing Technology Used in Pharmaceutical Industry

Three-dimensional printing (3DP) makes it possible to create a variety of geometries using computer-aided design with various materials and procedures for intended uses, such pharmaceutical drug delivery systems. Despite the fact that 3D printing was patented in 1986, 3DP research did not gain traction until the past 10 years. The expectations of regulatory bodies, constraints, challenges in setting up such facilities for the manufacturing of pharmaceutical goods, benefits, drawbacks, uses, techniques, and related manufacturing hazards are all presented here. FDA. When compared to conventional drug preparation methods, 3D printing technology offers substantial benefits for customized drug production, making it simple to create preparations with intricate structures or drug release characteristics and enabling quick production of tiny quantities of medications. It also offers a thorough analysis of the state of this platform's research and development at the moment. The present review aims to provide an overview of the benefits, limitations, and uses of 3D printing in pharmaceutical technology by outlining several techniques (such as thermal ink jet printing, ink jet printing, fused deposition modeling, extrusion 3D printing, zip dose, hot melt extrusion, 3D printer, stereolithography, selective laser sintering, laser-based writing system, continuous layer interface production, and powder-based 3D printing). [15]

Accompaniment in Determining the Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) And Product Branding at D'zegerrr As a Micro Small and Medium Enterprise

Purpose: This study aims to assist the MSME "D'Zegerrr" in improving their Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) determination, product branding, and social media optimization. Established during the Covid-19 pandemic, "D'Zegerrr" produces traditional herbal drinks but faces challenges in accurately calculating COGS and creating a strong brand presence. Method: Analyzing current production costs, refining the COGS calculation using the Full Variable Costing method, improving product branding with a suitable slogan and packaging, and optimizing social media usage. Practical Applications: Practical applications of the study include helping the business better understand cost components, enhance brand identity, and increase engagement on social media platforms. Conclusion: The results show that by recalculating the COGS, "D'Zegerrr" can price their products more accurately, ensuring a fair profit margin. Additionally, the adoption of the slogan "Your health comes first" and the use of social media for brand promotion have increased customer awareness, positioning the MSME for greater market success.

Optimization Method for Thin-walled Structures with Directional Stiffeners Based on Single-variable Characteristic Functions

Abstract Continuum topology optimization is a powerful structural optimization method, but its application often leads to thin-walled structures with complex and irregular stiffening patterns, making the manufacturing process challenging. To address this issue, a novel optimization method for thin-walled structures with directional stiffeners is proposed. By introducing the single-variable characteristic function into the Discrete Material Optimization (DMO) model, a diagonal elements scheme is developed. This approach significantly reduces the number of design variables and enables the rapid optimal design of thin-walled structures with directional stiffeners. Firstly, a set of single-variable are introduced to describe the stiffeners in a given direction. The original variables are transformed into a set of density functions using the single-variable characteristic function. These density functions are incorporated into the DMO model to construct a new interpolation model. The update of design variables is driven by the genetic algorithm. An adaptive smoothing strategy is employed to adjust the projection slope and penalty parameters, which improves optimization efficiency. A numerical example verifies that the proposed method not only successfully achieves optimized results but also ensures good manufacturability.

ORGANIZATIONAL AND FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT OF DIGITAL CONTENT

In today's crisis conditions caused by military, financial, economic, social, environmental political upheavals and threats, the role of innovative technologies in trade is growing significantly. First of all, this applies to digital distribution in the book trade. Compared to traditional forms of trade, it does not require extensive infrastructure, large production facilities, or numerous staff. This helps to reduce transaction costs, respond more quickly to changing market conditions and simplify access to international trading platforms. However, the further development of digital distribution requires constant monitoring and analysis of global trends, and implementation of the best domestic and foreign practices to ensure efficient management of trading operations.The purpose of the study is to formulate the main financial and organizational measures to improve the management of digital distribution and increase its efficiency. To achieve this goal, the following tasks were solved: based on scientific publications and statistical data, the author monitored the trends in the development of digital distribution and the e-book market in Ukraine and in the world; analyzed the rank and level of visits to the websites of leading online e-book and audiobook stores in Ukraine; identified external and internal factors that affect the efficiency of digital distribution, in particular, e-books and audiobooks in the current conditions of military aggression and other risks; developed a model for generating revenue for a digital distribution platform.Financial, economic and organizational measures to improve the company's distribution management of digital content are proposed. These include areas of customer incentives and rewards, improved communication with digital goods manufacturers, priority funding for projects to improve the platform interface and mobile application, improved accounting, reporting, operational and strategic planning, and the introduction of artificial intelligence.

Optimized Economic Production Quantity Inventory Model with Weibull Decay, Dynamic Holding Cost Under Varied Demand Scenario and Demand Series Analysis

This paper presents a sophisticated modification of the economic production quantity (EPQ) model. It incorporates Weibull-distributed progressive deterioration, dynamic holding costs, variable demand, and strong strategies for effectively handling shortages and backlogs. Targeting products that have a short-term expiration but can still be stored for a long time without significant deterioration, the model aims to increase production quantities while lowering overall variable expenses. The extended EPQ model utilizes Maclaurin series approximations to solve ordinary differential equations, effectively capturing the dynamics of inventory under three different demand patterns. The focus of this handle’s situations when the demand for a product changes in a predictable manner over time and considers the likelihood of defective goods during the manufacturing process. This approach provides useful insights for optimizing inventory management and production planning in the manufacturing of goods that are used up or consumed. The usefulness of the model is confirmed in the study through the use of two illustrative instances. Additionally, sensitivity analysis is utilized to suggest potential areas for additional investigation.

Perancangan Sistem Informasi Toko Pak Kusno Sidorukun Untuk Mempermudah Jual Beli Barang

Modern digital life relies heavily on information systems (IS) to manage data efficiently, make better decisions, and increase productivity. Mr. Kusno's shop faces problems of goods management, finance, and product promotion. This research designs a customized information system to solve those problems, such as easier digital transaction recording, more optimized goods management, and better financial management. The implementation of this system is expected to increase the efficiency and competitiveness of Toko Pak Kusno. The development method used is the waterfall method, which ensures each step is carried out sequentially from analysis, design, implementation, to system testing. The results showed efforts in designing an information system that can improve the operational efficiency and service quality of Toko Pak Kusno in buying and selling goods and store management.

A MATLAB platform for production planning in batch processing firms producing items that are jointly replenished

Rising levels of poverty have prompted manufacturers of non-durable consumer goods to explore opportunities at the lower end of the wealth spectrum. To enhance affordability for low-income consumers, these goods are often packaged in various sizes, including single-serve sachets. While numerous models and algorithms have been developed to determine the optimal frequency of manufacturing runs and packaging setups for the simultaneous replenishment of different pack sizes, there is a notable lack of literature addressing their implementation by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in this sector. This gap may be attributed to the absence of accessible source codes, a shortage of model experts, and the complexity involved in manual calculations. To address this issue, we developed a user-friendly MATLAB software platform based on Goyal’s algorithm, tailored specifically for SMEs. The software prioritizes simplicity, interactivity, and flexible visual displays. It was validated against examples from existing literature and through randomly generated scenarios. Users can easily compute the optimal number of manufacturing setups, packaging frequencies for each pack size, and the associated costs by inputting relevant data such as manufacturing setup, inventory holding and packaging setup costs, and demand for each pack size. Importantly, users do not need expertise in modeling to operate the software. However, it is designed for single-product deterministic environments; future research should explore multi-product and stochastic modeling scenarios.

Greening the procurement: a SMART evaluation of environmental sustainability in Australian government purchasing policies

PurposeThis study evaluates how well Victorian local councils’ procurement policies align with the sustainable and circular economy (CE) approach that prioritises sustainable and regenerative practices. It proposes a set of criteria designed to effectively integrate environmental sustainability issues into purchasing policies.Design/methodology/approachEmploying the Specific, Measurable, Assignable, Realistic and Time-bound (SMART) framework, a multi-dimensional content analysis guided by the goal-setting theory was applied to evaluate all 79 Victorian local councils’ procurement policies. This approach provided an assessment of policy specificity, measurability, assignability, realism and time sensitivity in promoting environmental sustainability through purchasing policies.FindingsThe findings underscored a significant deficiency in policy adherence to all SMART criteria concerning environmental sustainability, hindering the effective green purchasing decisions within government entities. This lack of integration of greening in purchasing policy poses challenges for manufacturers of waste-derived goods, obscuring the procurement objectives of these critical public sector customers.Practical implicationsThe paper contributes to the sustainable procurement (SP) discourse by proposing guidelines aimed at improving the efficacy of governmental purchasing of sustainable products. These guidelines address the broader imperative to mitigate the environmental impacts of governmental spending on less sustainable goods, thereby fostering ecological sustainability and promoting responsible consumption.Originality/valueWhile past studies have often relied on subjective content analysis methods, the SMART assessment used to develop the environmental sustainability criteria for purchasing policies, which distinguishes this study from previous governmental policy evaluation studies. This approach marks a departure from traditional governmental policy evaluation studies, offering a more structured analysis of policy effectiveness in promoting SP practices.

Влияние технологических параметров на микроструктуру и свойства сплава AlSiMg, полученного методом селективного лазерного плавления

Introduction. The development of additive technologies is aimed at the synthesis of new powder compositions for selective laser melting plants, the study of the effect of mode parameters on the stable quality of products. The purpose of this work is to study the effect of the scanning strategy on the microstructure, elemental composition, porosity and density of specimens obtained by selective laser melting from non-spherical powders (Al — 91 wt. %, Si — 8 wt. %, Mg — 1 wt. %), subjected to special preparation to determine the optimal conditions for selective laser melting. The research methods are methods of X-ray diffraction and X-ray phase analysis, transmission electron microscopy. The paper examines specimens formed using four different scanning strategies. Results and discussions. A promising aluminum alloy AlSi8Mg is developed for selective laser melting. The material has good manufacturability and low powder cost. The technological parameters of melting make it possible to form a thin structure with a low level of porosity. The mechanism of influence of the scanning strategy on porosity, surface morphology, relative density and microstructure is investigated. A specimen from the AlSi8Mg powder composition with a high relative density of 99.97 % is produced by selective laser melting with an energy density of 200 J/mm3, a specimen scanning circuit when the direction of laser movement changes by an angle of 90° each odd layer. It is proved that the density of the AlSiMg alloy depends on the scanning strategy used. The calculated density of the specimen was 2.5 g/cm3, which corresponds to the density of silumin. Analysis of SEM images and maps of the distribution of elements (Al, Mg, Si) of the specimens showed that different specimen formation strategies do not affect the nature of silicon distribution. A unique grain structure is observed in the resulting AlSi8Mg alloy. The melt pool consists of small grains along the border and large grains in the center. The formation of fine grains is explained by the addition of Si and the high cooling rate during selective laser melting.

Assessing the durability of diverse leather tanning techniques for the manufacturing of leather goods through artificial aging processes

In the context of the growing demand for sustainable consumption, especially in the fashion industry, leather remains an intriguing material. Its durability and quality not only ensure the longevity of products but also support the rise of practices like second-hand use and upcycling. This study evaluates the longevity of tanning alternatives - triazine-based and a combination of synthetic and vegetable tannins - compared to the widely used chrome tanning. Artificial aging processes, incorporating heat, humidity, UV exposure, and microbial conditions, were applied to leathers tanned with the three methods. Physico-mechanical measurements, commonly specified in industrial standards, were conducted alongside chemical analyses to evaluate potential degradations associated with chrome tanning as the reference. The aging processes impacted leather performances, but finished leathers remained suitable for applications. Indeed, results on finished leathers indicated minimal degradation after aging, emphasizing the importance of the protective layer for longevity. Considerations include adapting finishing to surface structures and addressing potential stiffness in triazine-tanned leather, necessitating further exploration.

Leasing impact on transformation processes in the Russian agricultural sector under sanctions pressure

At the present stage, the issues of sustainable development of the Russian agricultural sector and strengthening its technical potential in the context of sanctions pressure are becoming especially relevant. One of the most useful tools in solving these problems is leasing. The purpose of this article is to analyse promising directions for the development of leasing as the effective form of technical support for agricultural production in the current conditions. The study has used general scientific methods (analysis and synthesis, economic and statistical, graphical, etc.). The main trends now emerging in the domestic market are highlighted from the point of view of manufacturers of agricultural machinery and goods. With consideration to the current situation in the domestic market, decreased prices for agricultural products and rapid growth of prices for agricultural machinery, the most promising areas for the use of leasing mechanisms have been proposed to help accelerate technical re-equipment in the agricultural sector: application of leasing solutions in the agricultural industry that have already been tested and proven successful in other market segments (for example, subscription, agrocarsharing, etc.); combination of leasing mechanisms with trade-in programmes which make it possible to comprehensively solve issues not only of updating machinery and tractor fleet, but also of recycling worn-out agricultural equipment; use of leasing mechanisms for the development of machine and technological complexes as a modern form of joint use of machinery in agriculture which allows accelerating technical equipment of the industry. The proposed directions can help ensure systemic development and quicken the technical re-equipment of the Russian agricultural sector.

Understanding the shift: contextual determinants of classic and alternative servitisation trajectories

PurposeWhile servitization has been recognised for its potential to augment organizational revenue and fortify competitive advantage, the exploration of alternative servitization trajectories to the classical servitization model has been little explored in literature. Recent literature introduces the “service paradox” and presents different trajectories to the classical model, but it does not explain why a company chooses one trajectory instead of another. Therefore, this study aims to provide a model that, based on the contextual factors present, recommends which servitization trajectory the company should choose.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a combination of design science research (DSR) and context, intervention, mechanisms and outcomes (CIMO) to propose the model. An initial contextual factors list was created based on the literature, refined by the company’s employees and evaluated in three selected initiatives in the focal company. Furthermore, based on the understanding of the CIMO logic elements, four design propositions were elaborated to summarize the main findings of the study.FindingsThe study has demonstrated that the choice of a servitisation trajectory is intricately tied to a multitude of contextual factors, prompting organisations to deviate from conventional models towards alternative paths. Furthermore, the research sheds light on the underlying mechanisms and contextual drivers that shape servitisation decisions within the context of a consumer goods manufacturer. The analysis underscores the pivotal role of market dynamics and strategic adaptability in shaping servitisation strategies, underscoring the importance of customized approaches that cater to the distinct circumstances of each organisations.Originality/valueThe research contributes to both theory and practice by offering profound insights into the complex nature of servitisation, advocating for continuous adaptation and strategic alignment with market demands. For practitioners and decision-makers, the study provides valuable guidance on enhancing service offerings and navigating the complexities of servitisation within specific sectors, fostering a culture of learning and adaptation to drive sustainable growth.

Improvements in manufacturability, bonding strength, and curing efficiency of a silicone adhesive

Two-component room temperature vulcanizing silicone adhesive RTV566 with a lower elastic modulus has been widely used in precision optomechanical products such as remote sensors and aerospace infrared cameras. However, the silicone adhesive is of poor manufacturability due to its extremely high viscosity, and the bonded joint usually exhibits low bonding strength and requires a long curing time. This paper investigates a way to improve both the adhesion strength and curing efficiency of Invar alloy and optical glass with RTV566 through single-lap experiments. It is found that adding small amounts of acetone and water can significantly reduce the viscosity, enhance the bonding strength, and shorten the curing time. The viscosity can be reduced by 63.4 % and the bonding strength can be improved by 136.4 % with the weight ratio of adhesive to acetone being 20:2. Moreover, a little amount of water in the weight ratio of 100:10:0.1 (adhesive: acetone: water) can shorten the curing time from 7 days to 4 days without harms to the bonding strength and elastic modulus. As to the mechanism, the silicone adhesive can be dissolved by acetone and its sulfuration reaction can be enhanced by water, resulting in good manufacturability and high curing efficiency. This work contributes a novel and easy-to-use method to greatly improve the performances of the bonding process of precision optical structures.

Economic Factors and Performance of Selected Quoted Consumer Goods Manufacturing Companies: The Moderating Roles of Firm Agility

The problem of this study is the significant decline in the performance of consumer goods manufacturing companies, which is caused by various economic factors such as import policies, inflation, infrastructure, interest rates, and exchange rates. This study aims to evaluate the impact of economic factors on the performance of publicly traded consumer goods manufacturing companies and test how corporate agility moderates this relationship. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design with a population of 5,625 employees from 12 companies, yielding a final sample of 563. Data was collected through a questionnaire validated by confirmatory factor analysis and measured by a Likert scale. Data analysis was conducted with multiple regression using SPSS version 22.0. The results show that economic factors significantly affect firm performance, and firm agility significantly moderates this relationship. The conclusion of this study suggests that consumer goods manufacturing companies need to improve their agility to overcome the negative impact of economic factors. This study implies the need for more adaptive and flexible management strategies to enhance firm performance in the face of dynamic economic challenges.

Design of a catadioptric mid-wave infrared telecentric microscope with high numerical aperture and long working distance

Infrared microscopy is widely used in the field of thermal analysis. This paper proposes a design method for a catadioptric mid-wave infrared telecentric microscope system that solves the problem of traditional microscopy systems being unable to simultaneously meet high numerical aperture, long working distance and large magnification requirements. The system is composed of a microscope objective and a tubelens. The objective uses an improved Schwarzschild structure and is connected to the tubelens through an externally located pupil. The system works in the wavelength range of 3.7 μm–4.8 μm, achieves a 0.82 numerical aperture, a 15.5 mm working distance, an 8× magnification and a 2.75 μm object-side resolution. The image size of the detector is 17um, and the MTF of the microscope system at the detector cutoff frequency is greater than 0.2, which is close to the diffraction limit. Finally, tolerance analysis and athermal analysis are conducted on the system, and the results indicate that the system possesses good manufacturability and thermal stability.

Green Manufacturing Practices and Learning and Growth Efficiency of Consumer Goods Manufacturing Companies Listed in Nigeria

The present paper investigates the impact of Green Manufacturing Practices (GMP) on the Learning and Growth (LGE) of consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria. The study utilized Green Product Design (GPD), Green Supply Chain Management (GSM), Green Efficient Processes (GEP), Green Renewable Energy (GRE), and End-of-life Product Management (EPM) as constructs for green manufacturing practices on learning and growth efficiency of consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted for this study the consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria made up the population of this study. The sample size of 228 was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula and randomly selected. A 5-point Likert Scale questionnaire was employed for data collection. The validity of the instrument of data collected was premised on the vast experience of the managers and the reliability of the data was done using the Cronbach Alpha Coefficient Technique which produced between 0.767 and 0.966 results. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 was used to analyze and test the multiple regression. Descriptive and inferential (multiple regression) statistics were used to analyze the data at a 5% significance level. The findings indicate that green manufacturing practices variables (GPD, GSM, GEP, GRE, and EPM) had a positive significant effect on learning and growth efficiency (Adj.R2 = 0.440, F(6,217) = 35.001, p < 0.05) indicating that a unit increase in GMPs will enhance the LGE of consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria. These findings should be of major interest to the Management of the consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria. They suggest that they need to make informed strategic decisions about green initiatives and prioritize investments in them, while Government policymakers develop or refine regulatory frameworks that encourage green manufacturing practices in the manufacturing industry. This investigation provides original empirical evidence on the effect of green manufacturing practices on the learning and growth efficiency of consumer goods manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria.

Polyoxymethylene-based solid polymer electrolyte for high-performance room-temperature all-solid-state lithium batteries

Compared with flammable liquid electrolytes, solid state electrolytes show promising potential for lithium-ion batteries with high safety and high energy density simultaneously due to their high thermal stability, mechanical strength, excellent chemical and electrochemical stability. Solid polymer electrolytes are an attractive choice to achieve high energy density due to their thinness and good manufacturability. However, traditional solid polymer electrolytes typically need to operate at above 60 °C due to the insufficient room-temperature ionic conductivity, thereby limiting its practical application in common room temperature lithium-ion batteries. Here, we report a novel design of polyoxymethylene (POM)-based solid polymer electrolytes for high-performance room-temperature all-solid-state lithium batteries. This design includes POM and lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amine (LiTFSI), which offers the similar structure to polyethylene oxide based solid electrolyte while with shorter chain segments to achieve higher ionic conductivity (2.8 × 10−4S cm−1) and mechanical strength at room temperature. As a result, lithium dendrites can be efficiently suppressed, and symmetrical Li-Li cells have demonstrated more than 300 h of cycling at 0.05 mA cm−2. The wide electrochemical stability window of 4.75 V also enables broader application for full cells. All-solid-state lithium batteries fabricated with POM/LiTFSI exhibit excellent cycling stability for 150 cycles at 0.2 C rate at room temperature. The design breaks through the useable temperature limit of solid polymeric electrolytes and broaden their application in all-solid-state lithium batteries.