Interpretive Structural Modelling Approach Research Articles

An improved WINGS-ISM approach with consensus model in group decision-making for addressing critical success factors of collaborative emergency management

Since the variety and destructiveness of unexpected natural disasters and health emergencies, and the weakness of emergency systems around the world, studies on collaborative emergency management (CEM) are receiving increasingly attention recently. The existing literature has proved that with respect to the constraint of limited resources, it’s usually unrealistic for CEM practitioners to push forward all influential factors that affect the comprehensive performance of CEM simultaneously. Thus, identifying the most critical success factors (CSFs) is of great significance to promote the effectiveness of CEM practices. To achieve this intention, we proposed a novel multi-granularity extended probabilistic linguistic weighted influence nonlinear gauge system and interpretative structural modeling (WINGS-ISM) approach with a consensus model optimized by the convolutional neural network algorithm. The new technique specializes in addressing the CSFs of episodes involving CEM characterized by the combination of uncertainty and complexity in group decision-making process. To validate its feasibility and robustness, we mainly investigate 10 CSFs to conduct an illustrative CEM case, the result shows that ‘Applicable emergency response plan and regulations’, ‘Government unity of leadership and coordination’ and ‘Reasonable organizational structure and clear functions’ are identified out of 10 influential factors. Besides, the cause-effect and hierarchal relationship digraphs indicate that the CSFs of CEM are interconnected, and this finding can support CEM practitioners to devote more attention to the most important factors, which may yield more improvements in CEM practices. Finally, some research implications are provided for better improving the effectiveness of CEM practices based on the findings of this study.

Modeling the Strategic Enablers of Financial Sustainability in Saudi Higher Education Institutions Using an Integrated Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory–Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

Ensuring financial sustainability is paramount for higher education institutions (HEIs) to maintain financial viability and accomplish their strategic objectives by efficiently managing and utilizing resources. Studying strategic enablers’ interconnections and influences on each other is essential to forming a profound understanding and guiding the execution of initiatives linked to achieving financial sustainability plans. The main objective of this research study is to construct a model and analyze the strategic enablers of financial sustainability in HEIs and their associated dimensions. An integrated modeling approach was followed based on the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) methods. Input data collected from experts with specialist experience in financial sustainability in HEIs were used in the modeling. The overarching finding is that starting with the development of regulations and legislation-related systems leads to good governance practices, enabling the achievement of financial sustainability in HEIs. The developed model unpacks the complex relationships among the enablers and their dimensions. It reveals their cause-and-effect relationship classifications, ranks based on relative importance weights, dependence and driving powers classifications, relationship directions, and interpretive structure. It provides an overarching view of the interconnected network that acts as a roadmap to achieving financial sustainability in HEIs.

Examining interdependencies among solution dimensions for sustainable development in SMEs based on Industry 4.0 concept

PurposeIn the context of promoting sustainable development in SMEs, the present study aims to investigate the relationship among solution dimensions based on the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) concept.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a comprehensive methodology that includes a systematic literature review, workshop, grounded theory and interpretive structural modeling. Various dimensions concerning I4.0 sustainability are tested and evaluated using a questionnaire design followed by hypothesis formulation. Further, grounded theory is used to extract the key solution dimensions that capture the essence of I4.0 implementation in SMEs. Finally, the solution dimensions for I4.0 sustainability are modeled using the ISM approach to understand the structural interdependencies among them, and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Applied to a Classification (MICMAC) analysis is done to understand the driving and dependence power among these dimensions.FindingsThe study identified 14 solution dimensions for the implementation of I4.0 in SMEs for sustainable development. Out of the 14 solution dimensions, human resource training programs (D4) appear at level 11, followed by top management commitment (D1), strategic collaborations (D3) and coordination among key stakeholders (D5) at level 2 in the hierarchical interpretive structural modeling (ISM) model. Also, these dimensions have an effect size of more than 0.50 which indicates a substantial correlation between the sustainability dimensions and Industry 4.0 implementation in SMEs.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the overall goal of fostering sustainability within the SME sector, which can pave the way for various stakeholders for the successful implementation of I4.0 sustainable solution dimensions.

Barriers to green procurement of the Iranian construction industry: an interpretive structural modeling approach

Barriers to green procurement of the Iranian construction industry: an interpretive structural modeling approach

Designing a Human Resource Productivity Model for the Deaf Sports Federation: A Combined Delphi-Fuzzy and Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

Objective: The objective of this study was to design a human resource productivity model for the Deaf Sports Federation using a combined Delphi-Fuzzy and Interpretive Structural Modeling approach. Methods and Materials: The methodology of this research was mixed (qualitative and quantitative). Participants included managers and officials of committees within the Deaf Sports Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran and elites in deaf sports, including coaches, referees, and athletes. The selection of these individuals was purposeful, based on criteria of expertise and experience, representation, diversity, and cooperation potential, with 18 individuals chosen. Data collection tools were a 41-question questionnaire and a 17x17 dimensional matrix, both validated for reliability and validity. Data analysis was conducted using Delphi-Fuzzy and subsequently Interpretive Structural Modeling. It is noteworthy that for these analyses, Excel macros and the SmartISM web program were utilized respectively. Results: Findings identified 17 determinant factors related to human resource productivity in the Deaf Sports Federation, which were categorized into five levels based on interpretive structural analysis, forming a hierarchical relationship model that indicates the fundamental factors in optimizing human resources in the Deaf Sports Federation are the alignment of authority-responsibility and organizational culture, which ultimately lead to an individual’s perception of their role. Conclusions: Accordingly, in planning to enhance human resource productivity in the Deaf Sports Federation, the initial step should involve establishing a balance of authority-responsibility and promoting values that assist employees in understanding their roles.

Identification of Water Crisis Management Policy Indicators in the Country Based on the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) Approach

Objective: The aim of the present research was practical in terms of its objectives and descriptive-survey in terms of its data collection method, utilizing an Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach. Methodology: The participants of this study were 15 managers, policymakers, and water sector experts, who were purposefully invited to participate in this research. The tool used in this investigation was a closed-response questionnaire in a matrix format. The criterion for expertise at this stage was the respondent's professional legitimacy. Findings: The results of implementing the research model indicate that the most important components of the study include legal and regulatory environment factors, economic environment, cultural environment, conflict of interest management, culture building, participation drivers, trust, political strategies, crisis management necessity, constructive institutional interaction, motivation, communication factors, governmental actions, reform and adaptation, facilitative leadership, decision-making stability, financial support, guarantee of sustainable development, control of marginalization, attention to local capacities, appropriate water pricing, promotion of public monitoring, improvement of agricultural water use efficiency, consumption pattern improvement, and legal support. Conclusion: Therefore, issues such as economy and budgeting, healthcare, welfare and social security, education, energy, environmental damage, foreign policy, and national internal security, as well as threats to occupational and job security, or matters like insufficient access to healthcare services should be examined by the government, the private sector, and the commitment of individuals and companies, or a combination of both.

Presenting a Structural Model for Brand Hate Reduction in the Iranian Home Appliance Industry with a Combined Meta-Synthesis and Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

In the past, brand management researchers have paid more attention to positive aspects and attitudes towards the brand. However, today, customers' negative impacts and negative perceptions of the brand have received more attention, as this issue can increase organizational profitability and customer satisfaction. The aim of this research is to present a conceptual model for reducing brand hate among customers. In this research, initially, according to the meta-synthesis approach, by searching the Scopus database and using keywords related to brand hate, 488 articles were found. By removing irrelevant and undesirable articles based on the performed cycle, eventually 91 relevant articles remained. In this review, 10 factors affecting brand hate reduction were identified, and with the opinions of 13 experts and using the Interpretive Structural Modeling technique, a conceptual model was designed to reduce brand hate in the Iranian home appliance industry. The research results show that the factors of communication quality, complaint responsiveness, and after-sales services are recognized as the underlying factors of the model. Improving these factors can strengthen the structure of brand hate reduction. These findings are consistent with previous research and show that paying attention to environmental issues and improving them has a positive impact on brand social responsibility, product freshness, and timely delivery. These factors can improve the customer experience and better understand the price-quality fit, which will ultimately lead to positive word-of-mouth advertising and a reduction in brand hate. This research suggests that home appliance industry managers focus on basic factors and pay attention to environmental issues to be more successful in reducing brand hate. The findings of this research provide important clues for researchers interested in this field to present more dynamic conceptual models by better understanding these factors.

Categorization of Blockchain Technology Applications in Human Resource Management: An Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

Categorization of Blockchain Technology Applications in Human Resource Management: An Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

ISM model for assessing critical productivity factors in the Jordanian construction industry post-COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract The construction industry is a human-intensive industry despite the massive development in technologies. Nowadays, after crossing COVID-19 pandemic, the construction industry is an important sector for saving the national economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has created new ways of thinking due to massive and unpredictable socioeconomic consequences. Thus, understanding the critical productivity factors after the COVID-19 pandemic will enhance the construction industry by improving the understanding of the professionals who are involved at an early stage of the project lifecycle. This study aims to determine the critical productivity factors after the COVID-19 pandemic for enhancing the construction industry in developing countries such as Jordan. A review of available literature similar to the related topics before the COVID-19 pandemic was explored, and then a questionnaire was distributed across the Jordanian construction industry to determine the main productivity factors post-COVID-19 pandemic. A focus group was used to determine the interrelationship among the factors with the Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) approach. The obtained results indicated that 22 main productivity factors affected the Jordanian construction industry. The hierarchy of these factors is categorised into six levels of ISM whereas the sixth level has the greatest factors that influence productivity in the construction industry. Thus, enhancing productivity in construction projects requires solving problems related to factors in level 1, which will help to solve problems at the next level and so on.

Decoding startup failures in Indian startups: Insights from Interpretive Structural Modeling and Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification

PURPOSE: Start-ups are widely acknowledged as crucial catalysts for innovation and drivers of economic progress. However, their vulnerability to failure continues to pose a persistent and significant obstacle. In light of this, the study intends to ascertain the various elements responsible for the elevated incidence of start-up failures and examine their contextual associations. It further aims to establish the hierarchical structure and identify the crucial factors of start-up failure. METHODOLOGY: The paper uses the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach to determine the structural hierarchy and interconnections among the causes of start-up failures identified through the comprehensive analysis of existing literature and experts’ opinions. MICMAC (Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification) analysis is also being utilized to categorize these identified failure causes into autonomous, independent, dependent, and linking factors by their driving and dependency powers. FINDINGS: A structural framework depicting the interrelationships among the factors has been derived, showing the failure factor, ‘poor market positioning’ factor at the highest level, and the ‘lack of entrepreneurial efficiency’ at the lowest level of the model. The results also revealed that lack of entrepreneurial efficiency, poor management, and external environmental issues are the most significant independent factors upon which all other failure factors rely. It also categorizes ‘poor market positioning’ as the dependent factor, signifying its passive role in the failure of start-ups. IMPLICATIONS: As previous literature has discussed the various factors responsible for the failure of start-ups in isolation, the current study fills out the gap in the literature by establishing linkages among those factors. The study’s insights emphasize the value of effective management teams and entrepreneurial skills in averting start-up failures. It highlights the importance of skill development and mentorship to enhance the capabilities of entrepreneurs and their teams. Furthermore, the research indicates that policymakers and support groups can create focus initiatives addressing issues like market validation, team dynamics, and financial management to enhance the start-up environment. These initiatives may encompass entrepreneurship training, financial assistance, and mentorship through the ‘Start-up India’ Program, Bharat Fund platform, etc. ORIGINALITY AND VALUE: Previous studies on entrepreneurial failure are based on AHP (Analytical Hierarchical Process), content analysis, and quality management methodologies. This is potentially the first study using the ISM-MICMAC approach that explores the complex world of start-up failures in India and illustrates the relative influence and interdependence of various failure factors of start-ups through a hierarchical model.

Modelling the Hindrances to Building Information Modelling Adoption on Construction Projects in Nigeria

This study was motivated by the need to deploy building information modelling (BIM) and its technologies to improve the realisation of construction projects. Prior to the introduction of BIM, the construction industry was confronted with obstacles and was sluggish in adopting change. Until recently, existing BIM research has mostly focused on large enterprises and there has been an apparent pattern of underrepresentation of medium-sized firms in BIM- related studies. Thus, the purpose of this article is to investigate the major hindrances to BIM’s adoption in construction projects as well as the dynamics of these hindrances in a developing country like Nigeria, using the total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) approach. The TISM displayed an 11-level hierarchy of hindrances made up of independent, dependent and linkage categories. Based on the Matrice d’Impacts Croises Multiplication Appliqué a Classement (MICMAC) analysis, “Lack of skilled BIM personnel” had the highest driving and the lowest dependence (independent) power, thus indicating its importance in the adoption of BIM. The findings further showed that “Lack of awareness of BIM” and “Resistance to change” are critical for the adoption of BIM in construction projects. The drivers (dependents) for the ease of adoption of BIM by policymakers and practitioners within the built industry are thus defined in this study. This study contributes to the early studies of BIM adoption from a developing country’s perspective.

Designing a Model for the Integration of Physical, Informational, and Financial Processes in the Supply Chain to Achieve Resilience in the Automotive Industry

Objective: This research aims to design a model for the integration of physical, informational, and financial processes in the supply chain to achieve resilience in the automotive industry. Methodology: The approach used in this research is modeling, initially utilizing Fuzzy DEMATEL to identify influencing and influenced factors. Since DEMATEL typically does not describe the nature and levels of interactions, the study further employs an Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach using MICMAC software to understand causal relationships and categorize influential factors into five levels. Data collection was based on a questionnaire and the Delphi method. A questionnaire grounded in a hybrid Fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM approach was designed and distributed to 20 supply chain management experts in the industry. After reaching a consensus, these factors were analyzed with the chosen approaches and classified into five levels, categorized into four types: autonomous, independent, dependent, and linkage. Findings: The findings indicate that eight categories of factors (including integration of measurement, resource management, communication integration, organizational; socio-economic sub-component; human and technical sub-component; managerial components, customers, planning, information and product quality; financial, process, and environmental components; technology planning integration and flexibility) have the highest impact on achieving resilience in the automotive industry supply chain. Conclusion: The most influential factor in the resilient supply chain of the automotive industry is the integration of measurement, which is connected with all other sub-components. In fact, resilience measurement impacts the resource management sub-component and the managerial sub-component.

Feasibility study of Mumbai-Pune Hyperloop corridor: Challenges and implementation

Considering making an efficient and sustainable ecosystem, the futuristic Hyperloop with Pod is considered a significant contributor in the coming years. However, the development and construction of the Hyperloop project is not easy. The research aims to analyze and evaluate the major factors involved in the success or failure of the Hyperloop project using the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach and using (Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement (cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification) MICMAC analysis. This method helped determine the inter-relationship among the factors and identify the key factors affecting the Hyperloop project. The work also explores the subfactors related to each major factor, which helps refine the major factors and understand their complex relationships. The research also includes data from a survey that was conducted to gather public opinion on the Hyperloop project. The survey questions were designed to collect information about factors such as user accessibility, experience, time, cost, convenience, and environmental impact. The collected data was analyzed to conclude public perception and acceptance, which is an important factor in determining the feasibility and viability of the Hyperloop project. The approach provided a holistic view of the project and helped identify potential issues that could arise during the Hyperloop project implementation phase.

An interpretive structural modelling approach to analyse the inhibitors of Lean Six Sigma in small and medium enterprises of India

An interpretive structural modelling approach to analyse the inhibitors of Lean Six Sigma in small and medium enterprises of India

Barriers to TQM implementation in SMEs in Bangladesh: an interpretive structural modeling approach

PurposeThis study aims to recognize the significant barriers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh, hindering the adoption of total quality management (TQM). Additionally, this research intends to explore the interrelations among these barriers to develop essential managerial insights for promoting TQM implementation in SMEs.Design/methodology/approachThe interpretive structural modeling (ISM) approach and Matrice d'impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment (MICMAC) a cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification show the relationship among the barriers and classification of the barriers to TQM implementation respectively, and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) is applied for ISM model validation.FindingsThis study examined previous literature and conducted interviews with professionals to identify 17 barriers. The study then develops and investigates a model that outlines the relationships and priorities among these barriers and categorizes them based on their impact and interdependence. This analysis can assist SMEs in implementing TQM during their operations successfully.Practical implicationsThis research emphasizes the crucial obstacles that greatly affect other barriers and require immediate attention. Furthermore, this study provides valuable information for SMEs to effectively prioritize their resources and efforts to overcome these obstacles.Originality/valueThis study delves into the primary obstacles impeding the integration of TQM in SMEs through a novel approach. Additionally, this study constructs a verified contextual framework that depicts the hierarchies and interconnections among these barriers.

Barriers for adoption of green supply chain management in cement industry: an interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach

Barriers for adoption of green supply chain management in cement industry: an interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach

Factors Affecting the Well-Being at Work and Risk Perception of Construction Workers: A Validated Interpretative Structural Modeling (VISM) Approach

Despite increased safety investments in the civil construction sector, high accident rates persist, often due to workers’ intentional unsafe behaviors influenced by poorly understood psychological factors. This study utilized validated interpretative structural modeling (VISM), an innovative technique, to investigate factors impacting the well-being and risk perception of construction workers in the Brazilian Amazon. The VISM model was developed through five steps: (1) identification of indicators; (2) definition of constructs; (3) identification of relationships between constructs; (4) validation of these relationships; and (5) creation of the model. The results underscore the effectiveness of VISM in crafting complex models with robust statistical validity, even in studies with sample limitations and intricate or circular relationships among constructs. The research identified various factors in this phenomenon, such as the importance given by management to workplace safety, job dissatisfaction, work-related stress, turnover intention, work–family balance, alcohol and cigarette use, physical health, perception of accident risks at work, and education and training in workplace safety. Another significant contribution lies in the model’s ability to discern both direct and indirect relationships among these well-being factors. This insight enables the formulation of strategies to enhance worker well-being and reduce workplace accidents, particularly those stemming from intentional unsafe behaviors.

Modeling the enablers of AACSB implementation in business schools: ISM-Fuzzy MICMAC analysis

PurposeThe study aims to explore and classify the key enablers of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) implementation in business schools.Design/methodology/approachBy applying the Interpretive Structural Model (ISM) approach, it builds a hierarchical model of the identified enablers of AACSB implementation. Additionally, the Fuzzy Matriced Impacts Croises-Multiplication Applique and Classement (FMICMAC) technique is used to classify and determine the influence of these enablers on the implementation of AACSB accreditation.FindingsThe paper presents an ISM model of the identified enablers and draws managerial insight from it. Categorization of the key enablers into four groups helps in understanding the relative influence of each group of enablers on the AACSB implementation in business schools.Research limitations/implicationsThe proposed model of the key enablers will help business schools that are pursuing AACSB accreditation prioritize the enablers. As the study has considered experts' opinions to establish the model, some amount of bias cannot be discounted.Originality/valueThe development of the ISM model of the key enablers of AACSB implementation in business schools is a unique attempt. The findings will help business schools focus on the key enablers that influence implementation of AACSB standards.

Barriers to Building Information Modeling (BIM) Implementation in Pakistan during The Post-Flood Era: An Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) Approach

Pakistan experienced one of the most severe floods recently in 2022. The post-flood eras have faced huge destruction in economic loss and infrastructure disaster. Effective infrastructure is essential in the development of a region. Pakistan is a developing country having less availability of resources and a lack of proper planning to cater to natural hazards and faces huge destruction in flood-hit areas. The reasons behind these destructions are unending, some of which have been identified through past literature. Building information modelling is thus a foundation of digital transformation in the infrastructure or architecture, engineering, and the Architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Incorporating BIM in the renovation and rebuilding of infrastructure is a prominent solution to prevent the post-flood era from devastation. This study aims to determine the barriers to the implementation of BIM. After reviewing the literature, several barriers have been identified, and 13 of them have been used in this study as strong hurdles in the implementation of BIM in the post-flood areas of Pakistan. The ISM technique (interpretive structure modelling) has been used to draw results regarding the identified barriers. The results indicated these barriers of different levels corresponding to their importance. This study is a great addition to the growing body of literature regarding flood adverse effects and a practical guideline to the AEC industry where architecture, constructors, and other experts in this field can take great assistance towards lessening and overcoming the barriers identified to implementing BIM.

Modelling the factors of technological innovation in the healthcare sector: A fuzzy-TISM-MICMAC approach

ABSTRACT Healthcare (HC) sector has witnessed the growing proliferation of technological innovation to enhance the quality of life, increased life expectancy, diagnostic options, and cost-effectiveness of HC services. Therefore, the present study aims to identify and analyse the critical factors of technological innovations catering to HC service delivery. The study has implemented fuzzy-total interpretive structural modelling (F-TISM) approach to develop hierarchical inter-relationships among the identified factors. Matrice d’impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment (MICMAC) analysis is implemented to classify factors into autonomous, dependent, linkage, and independent groups. The findings of the study placed all the factors of technological innovation in the HC sector at six levels of the developed hierarchical F-TISM model. The factors at the bottom levels are independent variables, which lead to the top-level dependent variables and in the middle of the hierarchical structure are the linkage variables. The most influential factors in the F-TISM model are public-private partnerships, integrated HC information systems, health 4.0 in HC services, organizational culture, and consumer demand. The study distinctly highlighted the importance of HC innovation achieved through the strong foundations laid down by organizational culture and the prolonged need of consumers bridged through integrated HC systems and state-of-the-art technological advancements.