Input Process Output Research Articles

Team Knowledge Diversity and Team Creativity: The Moderating Role of Status Inequality

We examined the relationship between team task knowledge diversity and team creativity, and the moderating role of team status inequality, with a focus on organizational tenure and rank inequality. By adopting an input–process–output framework, we hypothesized that teams would achieve high levels of creativity when they have a large pool of task-relevant expertise that is differentiated and specialized among team members, but the relationship would be weakened when team members have different statuses. We tested our hypotheses using data from 325 teams of employees at 10 companies in South Korea. Results showed that task knowledge diversity was positively associated with team creativity and a team's status inequality in terms of organizational tenure moderated the relationship in a negative way. Our findings contribute to the literature on team creativity by providing new insights regarding how status inequality, which is almost ubiquitous in workplaces, plays a role in a dynamic team process for creativity.

A Process Model of Network Throughput

The purpose of this research is to develop a process model through which workplace social context serves as a throughput influence that determines individual and collective retrospective attributions about the organization. Toward this end, this research extends attributions theory by drawing on the input-network-throughput-output (I-N-T-O) open systems model, which accounts for the mediating influence of constructed and dynamic member network ties on the input-process-output (I-P-O) relationship. In so doing, the proposed model explains how interpersonal networks among members contribute to a negotiated attribution process that produces retrospective intrasubjective perceptions to connect cognitive perceptions to intersubjective and collective consequences. After defining and conceptualizing the process through its influence on intersubjective attributions, I illustrate its interactionist capacity empirically in the case of peer mentoring at an academic institution. The manuscript concludes with a theore...

PLASTIKNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT AND UTILIZATION AMONG PERSON WITH DISABILITY (PWDs) IN SINACABAN, MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL

In response to the global community problem on solid waste management and the empowerment of the persons with disability (PWDs), this study is focused on Plastiknology development and utilization among persons with disability (PWDs) in Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental, Philippines. The study employed IPO (input process output) model using the respondents’ profile as the input variables and sanitation, sorting, cutting, folding and connecting skills as the process variables. Plastiknology products such as coin purse, clutch bag, wallet and placemats serves as the output variables. Using descriptive statistics, the mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage and percentage distribution are used to describe each variable. Regression analysis was used to test the input and process variables’ influence on the creation of the output products. Statistics shows minimal background on handicrafts, but interest in trainings is high. Active participation on livelihood trainings was shown in respondents’ positive attendance, attitude and product construction. As a result, there was no significant difference between self-evaluated and post-evaluated skills. Qualitatively, the products of the partcipants are promising and well-constructed. It was therefore recommended that the national and local institutions shall provide livelihood assistance to special sectors such as PWDs by facilitating the continuity of this livelihood program.

Prediction of Solar Photovoltaic/Thermal Collector Power Output Using Fuzzy Logic

In recent years, solar PV/T water collectors have been identified as one of the most promising hybrid devices. It is a combination of solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar flat plate collector (FPC) systems capable of generating electrical and thermal power simultaneously. This study presents a model which predicts solar PV/T collector power output using fuzzy logic techniques. A fuzzy logic model was established to predict power output of PV/T with respect to changes in input process and FPC output power. Membership functions were allocated in connection with each model input. Experimental tests conducted during the month of December 2016 are compared with the developed fuzzy model to verify predicted results. The results indicate an agreement between fuzzy model and experimental results with an accuracy of 94.38% and error of 5.62%.

Total quality management and sustainable competitive advantage: serial mediation of transformational leadership and executive ability

Improving performance through better processes should be the focus of quality professionals. Based on the IPO (Input-Process-Output) model, this study considers total quality management (TQM) as an input of the internal and external of an organisation and transformational leadership (TL) and executive ability (EA) as the mechanism (Process) to promote and coordinate internal–external elements for the organisation obtaining its sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) (Output). Taking samples in the southern Taiwan Science Park in Tainan city for the questionnaire survey in this study, a total of 252 valid responses are collected and analysed to discuss the relationships among TQM, TL, EA and SCA. Reliability analysis, validity analysis, CFA and SEM are utilised for the analyses. The research findings are summarised as follows: (1) TQM significantly affects TL, EA and SCA. (2) TL and EA significantly affect a firm’s SCA and each of them has the mediating effect between TQM and SCA. (3) Both of them have a serial mediating effect on the relationship between TQM and SCA. Implications, limitations and future research directions are discussed.

Analysis and Modeling of Cryogenic Turning Operation Using Response Surface Methodology

In the present scenario, metal cutting industries are looking for alternative cooling techniques to conventional cooling to satisfy the stringent environment regulations as well as lower productivity problems while machining of difficult to cut materials. Cryogenic machining is a novel eco-friendly as well as efficient cooling techniques. In present work, an attempt has been made to study the effect of process parameters on turning performance characteristics and the development of correlation models between the input process parameters and output responses while machining of difficult to cut materials 17-4 precipitated hardened stainless steel (PH SS) using response surface methodology (RSM) under the cryogenic cooling environment. The turning process parameters considered in the present study are cutting velocity (v), feed rate (f) and depth of cut (d) whereas responses are tool flank wear (Vb), surface roughness (Ra) and material removal rate (MRR) respectively. RSM based face centered central composite design (CCD) experimental design has been used to perform the experiments. From the conformation test results, it was observed that very good agreement was found between the actual and predicted values, which represent that the developed predictive models are well effective with a maximum of ± 5% error.

Team performance in the Italian NHS: the role of reflexivity

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to investigate the goodness of the input-process-output (IPO) model in order to evaluate work team performance within the Italian National Health Care System (NHS); and second, to test the mediating role of reflexivity as an overarching process factor between input and output.Design/methodology/approachThe Italian version of the Aston Team Performance Inventory was administered to 351 employees working in teams in the Italian NHS. Mediation analyses with latent variables were performed via structural equation modeling (SEM); the significance of total, direct, and indirect effect was tested via bootstrapping.FindingsUnderpinned by the IPO framework, the results of SEM supported mediational hypotheses. First, the application of the IPO model in the Italian NHS showed adequate fit indices, showing that the process mediates the relationship between input and output factors. Second, reflexivity mediated the relationship between input and output, influencing some aspects of team performance.Practical implicationsThe results provide useful information for HRM policies improving process dimensions of the IPO model via the mediating role of reflexivity as a key role in team performance.Originality/valueThis study is one of a limited number of studies that applied the IPO model in the Italian NHS. Moreover, no study has yet examined the role of reflexivity as a mediator between input and output factors in the IPO model.

Enhancement of Efficiency and Reduction of Grid Thickness Variation on Casting Process with Lean Six Sigma Method

In a lead acid battery industry, grid casting is a process that has high defect and thickness variation level. DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control) method and its tools will be used to improve the casting process. In the Define stage, it is used project charter and SIPOC (Supplier Input Process Output Customer) method to map the existent problem. In the Measure stage, it is conducted a data retrieval related to the types of defect and the amount of it, also the grid thickness variation that happened. And then the retrieved data is processed and analyzed by using 5 Why’s and FMEA method. In the Analyze stage, it is conducted a grid observation that experience fragile and crack type of defect by using microscope showing the amount of oxide Pb inclusion in the grid. Analysis that is used in grid casting process shows the difference of temperature that is too high between the metal fluid and mold temperature, also the corking process that doesn’t have standard. The Improve stage is conducted a fixing process which generates the reduction of grid variation thickness level and defect/unit level from 9,184% to 0,492%. In Control stage, it is conducted a new working standard determination and already fixed control process.

An Intelligent Modeling System to Predict Mechanical Strength Characteristics of Selective Inhibition Sintered Parts using Fuzzy Logic Approach

Selective inhibition sintering (SIS) is a powder-based additive manufacturing technique that produces near net shape components through prevention of selected regions of powder particles from sintering. In SIS, due to its non-linear phenomenon, predicting functional relationship between input process parameters and output responses are cumbersome. Therefore, in the present work, an effort has been made to build an intelligent fuzzy-logic expert system for analyzing the mechanical strength characteristics includes tensile and flexural strengths of SIS processed high strength polyethylene (HDPE) parts. The experiments are conducted using response surface methodology based four-factor, three-level box-behnken design through considering SIS process variables such as layer thickness, heater energy, heater feedrate, and printer feedrate. A mamdani based fuzzy rule model is developed to predict the responses. Comparative studies of experimental and fuzzy results suggested that the obtained average error of mechanical strength characteristics using fuzzy system is in good agreement with experimental results. Thus, the developed fuzzy model can be effectively used to model SIS process to predict part strength characteristics in automated manufacturing environments to reduce the complexity of process planning activities.

A qualitative investigation of perceived impacts of virtuality on effectiveness of hybrid construction project teams

Purpose The “virtuality” of a team collaborative interaction is the extent to which it is accomplished in the same place, in fully distributed virtual teams, or in a hybrid combination of the two. However, existence, strength and process of potential association between virtuality and effectiveness in construction project teams have remained elusive. This paper aims to address this gap in the literature. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a conceptual model demonstrating the association between virtuality and effectiveness of teams was developed through integrating the input-process-output (IPO) model and the “Big Five” theory. This conceptual model was contextualised for the construction industry drawing upon conducting 17 semi-structured interviews with hybrid team experts. Findings The findings provide the first model mapping the associations between virtuality and dimensions of team effectiveness for the construction context. Practical implications The discovered patterns of associations between virtuality and dimensions of effectiveness for hybrid construction project teams (HCPTs) will assist managers in designing and running more effective teams. In addition, the findings help construction practitioners better understand how virtuality influence the performance and satisfaction of team members in HCPTs. The present study concludes with outlining a set of recommendations based on the findings of the study. Originality/value As the first study in its kind, the present study offers a new insight into the concept and impacts of virtuality for construction teams and provides instructions and guidelines for designing and maintaining the effectiveness of such teams on construction projects.

Textual Enhancement, Input Processing and Presentation-Practice-Production in College English Grammar Teaching in China

Based on the input processing theory and output hypothesis in Second Language Acquisition, and employing quantitative and qualitative methods, this study investigates the effects of Textual Enhancement (TE), Input Processing Instruction (PI) and Presentation-Practice-Production (3P), and tries to compare the initial learning and retention effect on the acquisition of unreal conditionals in Chinese college English classrooms. The research findings are as follows: 1) Both PI and 3P areeffective. TE is effective in initial learning but falls short for retention effect. There is significant difference between the TE, PI and 3P groups. 2) In initial learning, 3P has the best effect based on learners’ mean score, followed by PI and TE, but there is no significant difference between PI and 3P. There is significant difference between 3P and TE, PI and 3P. 3) With regard to the retention effect, 3P and PI work better than TE. And there is no significant difference between 3P and PI. The research findings indicate that explicit explanation about language structures plays an effective and necessary role in English learning in the Chinese context. English teachers are suggested to involve the learners with grammar through meaningful activities such as structured input activities.

Robust optimization for reducing welding-induced angular distortion in fiber laser keyhole welding under process parameter uncertainty

Welding-induced angular distortion is a typical out-of-plane distortion, which brings negative effects on the joints’ quality. Therefore, the selection of appropriate process parameters to minimize or control welding-induced distortion under uncertainty has become of critical importance. In this paper, a robust process parameter optimization framework is proposed to reduce welding-induced distortion in fiber laser keyhole welding under parameter uncertainty. Firstly, a three-dimensional thermal-mechanical finite element model (FEM) for simulating the welding-induced distortion is developed and validated by laser welding experiment. Secondly, a Gaussian process (GP) model is constructed to build the relationship between the input process parameters and output responses. Finally, uncertainty quantification of both process parameter uncertainty and GP model uncertainty is derived. The obtained uncertainty quantification formulas are used in the robust optimization problem to minimize welding-induced distortion. The effectiveness and reliability of the obtained robust optimum are verified by the Monte Carlo method.

Unpacking the Black Box of Family Business Advising: Insights From Psychology

Academic research on family business advising is gaining momentum; however, the internal structure and mechanisms of advice giving and taking remain a black box. We conducted a systematic review that integrates findings from family business advising with those from psychology. Advising research in psychology has focused on understanding the subjective constructs and theoretical concepts composing the internal structures of advising. We develop an input–process–output framework to categorize and integrate both streams of literature on advising, introduce new concepts and variables from psychology that inform family firm advising, and identify important gaps to delineate avenues for future family firm research.

An Input–Process–Output Model of Pilot Core Competencies

Abstract. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the flight-related core competencies for professional airline pilots and to structuralize them as components in a team performance framework. To achieve this, the core competency scores from a total of 2,560 OPC (Operator Proficiency Check) missions were analyzed. A principal component analysis (PCA) of pilots’ performance scores across the different competencies was conducted. Four principal components were extracted and a path analysis model was constructed on the basis of these factors. The path analysis utilizing the core competencies extracted adopted an input–process–output’ (IPO) model of team performance related directly to the activities on the flight deck. The results of the PCA and the path analysis strongly supported the proposed IPO model.

Analysis of Lean Six Sigma tools from a multidimensional perspective

The aim of this research is to analyse 68 Lean Six Sigma (LSS) tools from a three-dimensional perspective, i.e. in terms of their rate of implementation, necessity and sufficiency. Using comprehensive survey data gathered from 106 respondents who are Six Sigma team leaders and practitioners, this research conducted Ward’s hierarchical clustering and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to determine and conclude on the implementation, necessity and sufficiency levels of the LSS tools. LDA helped to achieve a complex evaluation of the tools based on their positions on the three-dimensional space. The location of the tools is evaluated to provide a complete discussion on the LSS tools. The results revealed the fact that the most frequently used LSS tools are Pareto histograms, brainstorming, process flow maps, supplier–input–process–output–customer (SIPOC), control charts, plan-do-check-act and Ishikawa diagram, whereas, Pugh matrix, artificial neural networks, structural equation modelling, principal component analysis and Taguchi’s loss function are among the least frequently used tools during LSS projects. Process flow diagram is used more than required, whereas design of experiments, lean tools, simulation techniques and process sigma reassessment are found as not being used as required. SIPOC, voice of customer and critical to quality are considered as not sufficient in addressing their particular goal.

Analysis of Wear Behavior of Thermoplastic Bio-Composite

In the present work, response surface methodology (RSM) has been used to model and predict the wear properties of Bio-composites fabricated in this study. Polished stainless steel counterface has been used to analyze the wear response of the bio-composite under dry contact condition. Three process variables namely applied sliding speed, normal load, and sliding distance were taken to investigate their effect on output response (specific wear rate). Statistical analysis was performed in the form of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) to analyze the significance and interaction of experimental parameters. The mathematical relationship between sliding wear input process parameters and output responses has been established to determine the values of output responses.

Developing a Model for Studying the Antecedents and Effects of Word of Mouth (WoM) and e-WoM Marketing Based on Literature Review

Word of mouth (WoM) marketing is a key ingredient of interactive marketing, involving consumers and converting them into spokespersons for the company. The scope of published research on WoM is broad and spans a long period of time. However, it is not since the advent of social media that WoM or electronic-Word of Mouth (e-WoM) has become a measurable means of communication, making work on e-WoM recent and scarce. Also, existing work pertains to developed economies and there is a potential scope of study in the context of developing nations like India, where the focus is shifting to digitalization in a huge way. To understand the impact of WoM and social media, an attempt has been made to divide literature into drivers, measures, and effects of WoM. Number of variables emerge and can be used to measure the three identified categories. These variables can also be consolidated to establish causal links between drivers and effects of WoM. WoM has been conceptualized as the traditional communication model (Cheung & Thadani, 2010) and input–process–output model (Chan & Ngai, 2010) in the past, but these models take into account only a few variables that are linked into a causal relationship. By providing a consolidated guideline on drivers, measures, and effects of WoM, this article attempts to provide a roadmap for corporate/academic research on cause–effect relationship of WoM, as well as conduct fresh research in the context of developing economies.

A framework for analyzing digital volunteer contributions in emergent crisis response efforts

Advances in information, communication, and computational technologies allow digital volunteer networks formed by concerned publics across the globe to contribute to an effective response to disasters and crises. Digital volunteer networks are event-centric and emergent networks. Currently, the literature is sharply growing in the fields of communication, computer science, emergency management, and geography. This article aims to assess the current status of the literature and suggest a comprehensive conceptual framework of digital volunteer networks in response to disasters and crises. This framework is based on a traditional input–process–output model consisting of three dimensions: the disaster and crisis context, a voluntary response process, and outputs and outcomes. We also discuss challenges of digital volunteer networks for crisis response. This article is expected to contribute to the development of related theories and hypotheses and practical strategies for managing digital volunteer networks.

Staff well-being in high-risk operating room environment: Definition, facilitators, stressors, leadership, and team-working—A case-study from a large teaching hospital

ABSTRACTPurpose: The purpose of this case-study is to critically evaluate the relationship between healthcare staff well-being and effective team-working in high-risk operating rooms (OR) environment.Background: Evidence suggests that positive staff well-being is associated with better patient care. However, healthcare organisations are lagging behind in prioritising staff well-being. It is acknowledged that delivery of multi-disciplinary care is proportional to effective team-working. The input-process-output (IPO) model theorises the relationship between staff well-being and effective team-working; however, the model's applicability has not been studied in high-risk OR environment.Methodology: Qualitative data were gathered, through semi-structured interviews, from OR nurses working in a large teaching hospital and content analysis was used to identify themes in the written responses.Findings: Five main themes emerged from the data; (i) participants linked well-being with happiness, job satisfaction, and being valued and recognised, (ii) participants held that unscrupulous organisational culture rears negative well-being, (iii) participants strongly argued that healthcare organisation must invest in staff well-being otherwise patient care will suffer, (iv) effective leadership is key to positive well-being and bad leadership behaviours are responsible for negative well-being and low-morale and (v) participants unanimously agreed that well-being drives effective team-working and not the converse.Value: The case-study identifies emotional well-being a key driver for effective team-working and ascertains that strong organisational support and compassionate leadership are critical to nurturing staff well-being. It challenges the widely held IPO model's notion that effective team-working promotes well-being in high-risk OR environment.Implications for nursing management: Case-study invites nurse managers to re-evaluate widely used three-staged (IPO) system approach towards creating an effective team-working in high-risk OR environment.

Crowdsourcing: A Review and Suggestions for Future Research

AbstractAs academic and practitioner studies on crowdsourcing have been building up since 2006, the subject itself has progressively gained in importance within the broad field of management. No systematic review on the topic has so far appeared in management journals, however; moreover, the field suffers from ambiguity in the topic's definition, which in turn has led to its largely unstructured evolution. The authors therefore investigate the existing body of knowledge on crowdsourcing systematically through a penetrating review in which the strengths and weakness of this literature stream are presented clearly and then future avenues of research are set out. The review is based on 121 scientific articles published between January 2006 and January 2015. The review recognizes that crowdsourcing is ingrained in two mainstream disciplines within the broader subject matter of innovation and management: (1) open innovation; and (2) co‐creation. The review, in addition, also touches on several issues covered in other theoretical streams: (3) information systems management; (4) organizational theory and design; (5) marketing; and (6) strategy. The authors adopt a process perspective, applying the ‘Input–Process–Output’ framework to interpret research on crowdsourcing within the broad lines of: (1) Input (Problem/Task); (2) Process (session management; problem management; knowledge management; technology); and (3) Outcome (solution/completed task; seekers’ benefits; solvers’ benefits). This framework provides a detailed description of how the topic has evolved over time, and suggestions concerning the future direction of research are proposed in the form of research questions that are valuable for both academics and managers.