Industry Players Research Articles

STARLINE India Limited: Operating Challenges for a Typical Courier Company

This case pertains to the functioning of STARLINE India Limited (SIL), one of India’s small but known courier companies. It was founded in 2013 and continues to be a key player in the courier industry. SIL books a wide range of consignments, from small parcels to full truck/air-load, for both domestic and international movements. The case provides a post-facto detailed note on operations at SIL focusing on multifaceted problems related to booking, handling and deliveries of packages. The case is suitable for postgraduate students of project management programmes, specializing in operations management and also for the participants of management development programmes in project management.

Impact of User Perceptions on Sharing Intentions in Sri Lanka's Transportation Sector: An Analysis of Risk, Convenience, Practicality, and Value

This research examines how perceived risk, convenience, practicality, and value impact ride-sharing intention in Sri Lanka's Western Province. It employs a deductive approach, utilizing surveys and quantitative analysis. The study focuses on ride-sharing service users in Sri Lanka, with a sample size of 884 determined through simple random sampling. Data was collected via self-administered printed questionnaires, with 900 responses received. However, only 884 responses were considered for analysis due to incomplete or biased questionnaires. SPSS version 26.0 was used to conduct the statistical analysis. The results highlight the significant influence of sharing intention on users' perceptions, emphasizing that user perceptions are pivotal in shaping ride-sharing intention. Hypothesis testing revealed a negative correlation between perceived risk and sharing intention. Parametric tests, including correlation and multiple linear regressions, upheld these findings. Furthermore, there exists a statistically significant positive relationship between perceived convenience, practicality, value, and sharing intention. These findings deepen our understanding of the determinants of ride-sharing intention in Sri Lanka, providing valuable insights for policymakers and industry players to bolster the adoption of ride-sharing services and nurture the sharing economy's growth. Additionally, this study enriches academic comprehension of how the sharing economy can address economic challenges and enhance the quality of life in developing nations like Sri Lanka. Future research endeavors should broaden their scope to encompass all regions of Sri Lanka for enhanced generalizability.

Strategy of Indonesian advertising industry in designing advertisements in the digital media era

Technological advances and changes in media as well as changes in viewing behavior in the digital era have implications for changes in the management of the advertising industry, especially in designing advertisements. In the conventional era, advertising only serves limited media, television, radio, print media, and outdoors. Ad messaging is designed simply because it involves only one platform. The nature of the relationship between media and consumers goes one way. In the era of digital media, advertising service platforms are very diverse. This study aims to understand how advertising industry players as advertising design designers create new advertising strategies in the digital era. The qualitative research method involved 5 informants from advertising industry players in Indonesia, namely advertising industry leaders at the central and regional levels, the general chairman of the Central Indonesian Advertising Company and the Chairman of the Central Java branch of the Advertising Industry as well as practitioners in the creative field of the advertising industry. The study results show that the advertising industry's strategy in answering the challenge of media technology dynamism involves creating new designs on all elements, including human resources, skills to master technology, device preparation, and digital skills.

DIGITAL TWIN APPLICATION IN CONSTRUCTION COST MANAGEMENT

In line with the current construction revolution, it is time for the construction industry to embrace innovation and technology. This is corresponding with the National Construction Policy 2030 (NCP 2030) that comes out with the aim to digitalize the entire construction industry towards the IR 4.0. The focus is to boost the nation's construction industry's competitiveness and recognition worldwide. The construction industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years such as BIM, IoT including Digital Twin due to the incorporation of digital technologies. A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical asset. It is still a relatively new concept in the construction industry, but it offers an innovative method for improving cost management strategies in construction projects. Applications of the digital twin in construction cost management have the potential to revolutionize conventional methods. Therefore, this study seeks to determine the level of understanding of construction industry players on the concept of digital twin applications in construction cost management by providing the concept and to explore the challenges and strategies in implementing the digital twin applications in construction cost management. This research employed a mixed-method approach by means of questionnaire survey and interview for data collection. 35 samples that consist of construction industry players from different organizations participated in this study. The data collected from the survey and interview are analyses through descriptive and content analysis. Overall, the findings find out the understanding of digital twin applications with its challenges and strategies to overcome it. This research contributes to the body of knowledge regarding digital twin applications and construction cost management.

Resilience capabilities and performance dimensions of manufacturing supply chains in a developing economy

PurposeThis paper investigates whether resilience capabilities influence manufacturing performance dimensions. Specifically, it empirically analyses how supply chain agility, alertness, adaptability and preparedness affect manufacturing firms’ operational and sustainable (economic, social and environmental) performance aspects.Design/methodology/approachThe paper employed a deductive approach and an explanatory design. It gathered survey data from 285 managers in 5,329 Ghanaian manufacturing firms and analysed it using structural equation modelling.FindingsThe study found resilience capabilities comprising agility, alertness and adaptability to significantly and positively predict changes in manufacturing firms’ sustainable (environmental, economic and social) and operational performance. However, the preparedness capability positively impacts the firms’ operational and environmental performance, not economic and social.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is restricted to Ghana’s manufacturing industry. Underpinned by the dynamic capabilities theory and extensive empirical reviews, the model was developed with four resilient capabilities and four manufacturing performance dimensions.Practical implicationsThe study highlights the relevance of resilience in today’s highly disruptive manufacturing environment for achieving sustainable and operational performance. It encourages manufacturing firms to prioritise heavy investments in alertness, adaptability and agile capabilities to overcome supply chain disruptions and enhance sustainable and operational excellence. It also offers significant insights for policymakers, managers and industry players to advance resilience capabilities and swiftly detect and recover from emerging disturbances in manufacturing supply chains, leading to higher performance.Social implicationsThe study contributes to resource conservation and a more sustainable future by projecting resilient capabilities in today’s disruptive environments. The shift towards SCR can influence public attitudes and opinions toward manufacturing and contribute to firms’ sustainability goals.Originality/valueThis study is the first to investigate the linkages between resilient capabilities and performance aspects simultaneously in less developed economies like Ghana. In these economies, manufacturing supply chains often face varying risks that continue to disrupt their operations and sustainability goals.

An Empirical Analysis of Loan Repayment Behavior and Default Rates on Digital Lending Platforms: Evidence from an Emerging Market

The rapid growth of digital lending platforms has revolutionized access to credit in emerging economies, providing financial opportunities to underserved individuals. Despite these advancements, high loan default rates remain a substantial challenge, threatening the sustainability of these lending platforms and the broader financial ecosystem. This study examines the determinants of loan default among users of mobile-based digital lending platforms in Kenya, a leading adopter of digital financial services. Employing a sample of 161 responses from borrowers, the analysis uses a probit regression model to identify primary predictors of loan default. The study focuses on borrower demographics like age and place of residence and loan characteristics, such as repayment term (period) and interest rates. The results reveal that older customers and those in rural areas are more likely to default on their loans, whereas longer repayment periods reduce the probability of default. Interestingly, the interest rate does not significantly affect default behavior, implying that borrowers prioritize access to credit over its cost. These results underscore the essence of tailoring digital lending practices to the diverse borrower needs and circumstances. By addressing the factors that drive loan defaults, digital platform lenders can improve risk assessment frameworks, enhance financial inclusion, and enhance the sustainability of digital lending platforms. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, lenders, and other industry players seeking to mitigate default risks and foster a more robust digital financial ecosystem.

Prediction Of Cigarette And Tobacco Price Index In Tangerang City Using Ses And Double Linear Exponential Smoothing

The cigarette and tobacco price index is a crucial indicator that reflects changes in prices and demand in the tobacco market. Accurate predictions of this index are essential for the government and industry players in planning policies and business strategies. This study aims to forecast the cigarette and tobacco price index in Banten Province using the Single Exponential Smoothing (SES) and Double Linear Exponential Smoothing (DES) methods. The data used in this research comprises monthly cigarette and tobacco price index data from January 2021 to December 2023. SES and DES models are applied for prediction, and their results are evaluated using performance indicators such as Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The research findings indicate that both methods are highly effective in predicting the cigarette and tobacco price index, with the SES method providing slightly more accurate predictions than the DES method. The MAPE error value for the SES method is 0.51%, while the DES method has a MAPE error value of 0.65%. These results are expected to contribute to policymakers and industry players in understanding price trends and making more informative decisions.

Influencer Marketing: Changing the Game

Influencer marketing has emerged as a transformative strategy in the new digital economy and is changing the ways brands connect with consumers. This paper explores the development, effectiveness, and impact of influencer marketing on consumer behavior and brand performance by focusing on how influencers bridge gaps between brands and their target audiences through authentic and relatable content. This study analyses the mega to nano influencer and show about reach, engagement, and cost-effectiveness. It examines how on such huge platforms, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok tend to be a hotspot for influencer-driven campaigns. Lastly, it analyses how influencer marketing shapes consumer trust, increases purchase decisions, and changes brand perception. The research will focus on the ethical and regulatory landscape, which will highlight the importance of transparency, authenticity, and compliance with guidelines like those from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The paper also includes case studies of successful campaigns, best practices, and challenges in terms of fake followers, misleading content, and evolving audience expectations. Among them is emerging forward research on future trends, for instance, AI-picks influencer; the rise of virtual influencers and incorporation of immersed technologies such as augmented and virtual reality in their campaigns. Providing an all-around view of how to use an influencer campaign effectively, the research will aid marketers, researchers, and industry players to make workable decisions while harnessing the mighty tool.

#Runningupthathill, revival and popular music fandom on TikTok

ABSTRACT The fourth season of Stranger Things (2022) used Kate Bush’s 1985 single ‘Running up that Hill’ for a key narrative moment, propelling the song back into the charts. This resurgence also inspired new generations of listeners who turned to TikTok to perform covers, analyses or parodies of the song. While TikTok has been discussed as an emerging player in the music industry and as a space of agency and expression, there is still limited understanding of how audiences use the platform to express and negotiate their musical affinities. To investigate this, we conducted a content analysis of TikTok videos tagged with the hashtag #runningupthathill (N = 442). We identified two primary themes which fostered musical meaning on TikTok: (1) platform dynamics and possibilities for creativity, and (2) affective nostalgia. Our findings show that these factors cultivated a two-fold sense of musicking: a renewal of communal, fandom practices alongside a reflective engagement with music cultures and their cyclicity. The analysis reveals a convergence between platformisation and the role of music in identity formation, self-creation and self-maintenance. Ultimately, this research offers empirical insight into how digital spaces reshape and renew music fan practices.

Global perspectives on environmental policy innovations: Driving green tourism and consumer behavior in circular economy.

The tourism industry plays a pivotal role in both economic growth and environmental stewardship, making it essential to adopt practices that ensure long-term sustainability. This research aims at relating to the global concern of sustainable management in the tourism industry which is significant in eradicating the effects of environmental degradation as well as promoting economic development. The research problem focuses on exploring sustainable solutions for encouraging green tourism and implementing circular economy concepts. To address this, this study uses the Pythagorean Fuzzy Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (PF-SWARA) and Pythagorean Fuzzy Complex Proportional Assessment (PF-COPRAS) method to assess and rank the appropriate factors and strategies. From literature research and a consultation with the expert's panel, six factors and twenty-four significant factors have been uncovered. The PF-SWARA outcomes reveal that the most important factors are sustainable resource use (A2), ecosystem restoration (A4), and environmental regulations (A5), signifying that they play a critical role in the attainment of environmental sustainability. Subsequently, the PF-COPRAS analysis was conducted for seven strategic solutions to determine the most important strategy for furthering green tourism. Technological innovations promotion (S3) is the most crucial strategic approach for implementing circular economy concept in the tourism industry. While sustainable infrastructures (S5) and promoting green financing and investments (S2) are next key solutions for sustainable development of the tourism sector. The findings help policymakers and industry players to promote sustainable tourism in changing socio-environmental conditions.

Modelling the flowing bottom hole pressure of oil and gas wells using multivariate adaptive regression splines

One crucial factor that aids the evaluation of oil and gas well productivity is the flowing bottom-hole pressure (FBHP). However, accurately determining the FBHP has been challenging for the oil and gas industry. Traditional methods, such as using downhole gauges or relying on empirical and mechanistic models, have limitations, prompting the exploration of alternative approaches such as machine learning (ML). However, most ML models operate as black box models, lacking transparency and interpretability. In this study, the multivariate adaptive regression splines algorithm was used to develop a FBHP estimation model. The model includes eight input variables and was built using 1001 data points from literature. The results show that the model achieved a coefficient of correlation, root mean square error and average absolute percentage error values of 0.94, 130 and 4.2% respectively. Compared to existing models, the developed model exhibited improved predictive accuracy. Sensitivity analysis indicates that water flow rate and depth had the largest effect on FBHP estimation, each contributing 17.5%, while oil API gravity had the least effect with a contribution of 3.5%. This study showcases a novel model that is explicitly presented, interpretable and physically validated, making the model suitable for integration into software applications. These attributes are lacking in many existing FBHP estimation models. By utilizing this model, the costs associated with downhole gauges can be saved, and real-time estimations can be obtained in the field. The model would be useful to oil industry players producing from unconventional wells where downhole gauges are rarely installed.

Evaluation of Critical Success Factors in The Indonesian Automotive Industry using DEMATEL-Based ANP to Implement Green Supply Chain Management

<p> <strong>Analysis of Indonesian car production</strong><strong> data in 2022 shows significant trend for increase in production and sales from year to year. The automotive industry in Indonesia is currently an important non-oil and gas sector which has a major contribution to the national economy. Currently, Indonesia has 22 four-wheeled motor vehicle industry companies. The higher the level of car production, the higher the CO2 emissions produced, and the higher the worldwide pressure to the countries to reduce the CO2 emission damage. Therefore car companies must implement Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM). However, the many criteria in GSGM implementation make it difficult for industry players to decide on the appropriate strategic decisions. The aim of this study is to find out the critical success factors in implementing GSCM in the Indonesian automotive industry and their interrelationship. The method used in this study is the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) based on the Analytic Network Process (ANP). The results of this study show that the top five of 25 critical success factor in global weight are: top management perspective 4.86%, company competitiveness 4.57%, economic interest 4.55%, Using energy-efficient machinery and equipment 4.49% and Carbon footprint identification 4.48%.</strong></p><p><strong><em>Keywords</em></strong> - <em>Automotive Industry, Critical Success Factors, DEMATEL Based ANP, Green Supply Chain Management.</em></p>

Merging Waqf and Takaful for Sustainable Death Compensation at FWD Takaful Berhad: What Do the Experts Say?

The waqf-takaful death compensation concept merges two Islamic principles: waqf and takaful. In this model, death benefits from a takaful plan are directed to religious institutions as waqf, ensuring ongoing community support. This approach not only provides financial security to the deceased’s family but also creates a lasting charitable impact, turning a one-time payout into a perpetual source of funding for social and religious causes. Despite facing challenges such as inconsistent implementation standards and management difficulties, some takaful operators in Malaysia have begun integrating death compensation waqf into their products. FWD Takaful Berhad, as one of the key players in the takaful industry, holds considerable potential for collaboration in further developing this product. Therefore, this study aims to propose a waqf-takaful death compensation product for FWD Takaful Berhad. A qualitative approach was employed, with data gathered through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving academics and industry experts in Malaysia. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis via ATLAS.ti software. The study identified several potential strategies for developing the waqf-takaful death compensation product for FWD Takaful Berhad. This research offers valuable insights for academics and industry stakeholders interested in proposing waqf-takaful death compensation products in Malaysia.

Decarbonization of remanufacturing processes in circular supply chains: case study on rubber recycling industry

PurposeAt present, relevant studies on circular supply chains are gradually increasing. However, the majority only focus on precautions or obstacles in the implementation of supply chains, rather than delving deeper into the decarbonization of processes within circular supply chains. Therefore, this study took the rubber recycling industry as an example, highlighting the decarbonization of the manufacturing process for remanufactured products in this industry. Subsequently, a feasible framework for future practice was established, serving as a valuable reference for companies in the industry.Design/methodology/approachThis study first selected key factors from the initial aspects and criteria using the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM), followed by ranking the importance of the selected aspects and criteria using fuzzy decision-making trail and evaluating laboratory (FDEMATEL).FindingsThis study has confirmed which directions the manufacturing processes of remanufactured products need to move toward so as to achieve the goal of decarbonization when implementing circular supply chains. The main aspects include environmental, social and economic benefits as well as value recovery. In addition, the main directions for implementing circular supply chains in the industry are cooperating with different supply chain partners, having effective reverse logistics systems, collaborating with multiple companies, optimizing technology and developing the industrial symbiosis network.Research limitations/implicationsResearch results vary due to industry differences. Although the results of this study can be used for reference in other high-pollution industries, they are unable to be perfectly in line with their current states. Therefore, more in-depth research is needed in the aspect of decarbonization for other industries.Originality/valueThe rubber recycling industry chosen by this study is different from general industries since its raw materials consist predominantly of waste. Therefore, it is an imperative trend to perform decarbonization in circular supply chains. This study establishes a novel framework to provide industry players and their stakeholders with clearer and more targeted implementation objectives for reference.

Analisis Dampak Aktivitas Industri Minyak Dan Gas Terhadap Sektor Ekonomi Di Kabupaten Seram Bagian Timur

PT Kalrez Petroleum Seram Ltd is a company engaged in the oil and gas mining sector. The company started operations in 2001 and is part of South Sea Petroleum Holdings Ltd, based in Hong Kong. This study aims to analyze the base sectors that can support economic growth and examine the potential of the mining and quarrying sector in supporting economic development in the region. The data used in this study is secondary data obtained from various related agencies, one of which is the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The data analyzed includes the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GDP) of Eastern Seram Regency and Maluku Province based on constant prices by business field in the 2011-2020 period. This study uses Location Quotient (LQ) and shift-share analysis methods to identify the base sector and analyze the dynamics of economic growth. The results of the analysis show that the base sectors in this area include the fisheries, forestry, and agriculture sectors with an LQ value of 1.06; mining and quarrying sector with an LQ value of 11.37; real estate services with an LQ value of 1.13; and health services and social activities with an LQ value of 1.07. However, the growth of the value of GDP in the mining sector during the 2011-2020 period experienced a significant decrease, namely -6,323.94 million rupiah. Other growth indicators, namely the Proportional Growth Contribution (KPP) of -0.22 and the Regional Growth Contribution (KPPW) of -0.14, also show that the mining and quarrying sector is relatively slow in growth, although it remains competitive at the regional level. The decline in the value of KPP and KPPW with a negative sign (-) in the mining and quarrying sector confirms that this sector is experiencing suboptimal growth. Although its competitiveness is relatively still there, this persistent decline indicates the need for more attention to improving efficiency and innovation within the sector. This is important so that the mining and quarrying sector can contribute more to improving the regional economy in a sustainable manner. To support the development of this sector, strategic policies, investment in technology, and synergy between the government and industry players are needed to overcome existing challenges

Evaluating the financial health of Cairn India: A case study of the Barmer operations

Cairn India, a subsidiary of Vedanta Resources Limited, is a key player in India's oil and gas industry. Among its numerous ventures, Cairn India’s operations in Rajasthan's Barmer district stand out as a cornerstone of its success. The discovery of one of India's largest onshore oil fields in Barmer in 2004 has transformed the region into a hub of oil and gas production, fueling both the company’s growth and the local economy. This study provides an in-depth analysis of Cairn India's financial health from 2007-2020, focusing on key financial metrics such as revenue, profitability, assets, liabilities, and cash flows. Operating in Rajasthan's Barmer district, Cairn India has played a crucial role in the region's economic landscape. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the company's year-over-year financial patterns to gain insight into its future performance, utilizing multivariable data analysis and statistical techniques. Data were sourced from credible secondary sources, including reports from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Rajasthan's Economic Surveys, and other official publications. The analysis employs a semi-log model to examine the company’s financial trajectory, revealing slight negative growth in revenue and gross profit, although these declines are not statistically significant, signaling stability rather than a major downturn. The company’s significant growth in non-current assets reflects its long-term investment strategy, but a rapid rise in total liabilities raises concerns about its increasing debt burden. Cash flows across operations, investing, and financing activities show stagnation, further underscoring financial challenges. The study highlights the need for Cairn India to manage its debt levels, improve operational efficiency, and explore revenue diversification, particularly in renewable energy, to ensure sustainable growth and financial resilience amidst evolving market conditions.

The Effect of Work Motivation and Work Skill on Career Decision Moderated by Internship Program in The Hotel Industry of Lampung Province

The global tourism and hospitality industry continues to show rapid growth, making significant contributions to economic development, job creation, and education. Lampung Province is experiencing similar developments, marked by an increase in the number of tourits visits and significant growth in accommodation businesses. This competitive hospitality sector demands human resources (HR) with superior skills (work skills) and work motivation, which can be obtained through internship programs. Internship programs are designed to provide practical experience to students, so that they are better prepared to face the world of work. This study aims to analyze the influence of work motivation and work skills on career decisions, with internship programs as a moderating variable in the Lampung Province hospitality industry. The study focuses on hotel employees from formal and non-formal educational institutions, who have participated in internship programs in accordance with vocational education policies in Indonesia. With this approach, the study is expected to fill the gap from previous studies, as well as provide recommendations for educational institution managers and industry players to improve the work readiness of graduates in supporting the competitiveness of the hospitality sector. This research methodology uses a quantitative approach to test the relationship between variables. The object of this study was starred hotel workers in Lampung who participated in an internship program, with a population of 1,499 people. A sample of 266 respondents was selected using purposive sampling based on internship experience criteria, according to Roscoe's theory for multivariate research. The test results showed that Work Motivation and Work Skill had a positive and significant effect on Career Decision. Internship Program moderation also strengthened the relationship, where Work Motivation and Work Skill moderated by the Internship Program significantly influenced Career Decision. This confirms the importance of motivation, skills, and internship experience in supporting career decisions.

Pemrograman Linier Metode Simpleks untuk Optimalisasi Keuntungan Produksi Industri Piscok

Piscok production in Indonesia is experiencing significant growth, but there are challenges in terms of efficiency. The purpose of this study is to maximize the profit of piscok production through linear programming with the simplex method. This research analyzes data to find the most effective production combination, given issues such as raw materials and production capacity. The analysis results show that by producing four units of Cheese Piscok and ten units of Bluberry Piscok, the maximum profit that can be achieved is Rp38,000. This research adds insight to small and medium industry players about the application of linear programming in the food sector.

Blockchain Technology, Regulatory Environment and Competitive Edge in Renewable Energy Sector in Kenya: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract: This systematic review of literature bears the objective of exploring the potential of transformative novel blockchain technology, its regulation, and the substantive impact it bears on renewable energy firms' competitive advantage. The study provides a minutiae of the current trends in research, their implications, and blockchain implementation and innovation between 2019 to 2024. The methodology comprised a comprehensive search of scholarly databases, selection, and analysis of the relevant research studies. The findings revealed that Blockchain is essential based on its transparency, traceability, data privacy, and decentralization features which enhance trust, transparency, and traceability across the supply chain. Furthermore, blockchain technology is relevant in the renewable energy sector in Kenya ranging from p2p trading platforms, digitization by IoT, E-mobility, and decentralized trading platforms. The distributed ledger technology is a promising disruption for a wide area of service and product management in the energy sector ranging from the producers, transmitters, regulators, and distributors involved. The review concludes with future research recommendations and the practical implications for the industry players and the regulators.

Membangun Ekosistem E-Commerce yang Berkelanjutan untuk Industri Kreatif : Tantangan dan Peluang bagi Pemerintah

This research examines crucial issues related to the development of a sustainable e-commerce ecosystem for the creative industry in Indonesia. The main problems identified are uneven digital infrastructure, lack of digital literacy, and fierce competition in local and global markets. The purpose of this study is to analyze the challenges and opportunities faced by creative industry players in utilizing e-commerce platforms. The method used is literature review by collecting data from various secondary sources, including journal articles and policy reports. The results of the study show that collaboration between the government, the private sector, and local communities, as well as effective training programs, are very important to improve the competitiveness of creative industry players. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the need for an integrated approach in creating an e-commerce ecosystem that supports the growth of the creative industry in the digital era.