Management Methodology Research Articles

Navigating trust: The clash of clan culture and conventional management

AbstractHow does a mismatch between management and cultural norms lead to decreased engagement and productivity? Within both Germanic and Mediterranean cultural spheres, trust dynamics mirror deeply ingrained kinship patterns, which evolve slowly over time. The inclination to trust within one's own kin group is notably stronger among Mediterranean populations compared to their Germanic counterparts. Even as these populations migrated to regions such as Latin America and the United States, the distinct trust patterns persist. Germanic managerial methodologies rely heavily on trust‐based behaviors inherent to Germanic cultures, which may not find resonance within the Mediterranean cultural context. Consequently, such managerial approaches often prove less effective within Mediterranean clusters. In contrast, management practices that prioritize kinship dynamics, commonly seen among Mediterranean peoples, foster an environment of trust, teamwork, and a sense of collective responsibility. This approach necessitates fewer bureaucratic controls and cultivates heightened levels of engagement and performance in the workplace. These assertions draw from a synthesis of historical accounts, business literature, anthropological studies, as well as empirical evidence from sources such as the World Values Survey Wave 6 data and field research conducted over a 2‐year period within a Brazilian samba school setting.

Applying Lean Principles to Eliminate Project Waste, Maximize Value, Cut Superfluous Steps, Reduce Rework and Focus on Customer Centricity

With increasingly complex demands, dynamic environments, and rapid technology changes defining business landscapes, project management methodologies are prime for disruption. Traditional project models – characterized by rigid, sequential stage-gates and siloed functional groups – struggle with wastefulness, reactive mindsets, and misalignment to customer purpose. As such, practitioners are turning to lean philosophies pioneered in manufacturing but applicable across sectors. This paper examines deploying lean principles to project environments to eliminate activities that do not directly add customer value (waste), amplify learning, decide slowly but deliver quickly, empower teams, and continuously improve. Core facets of lean covered include Value Stream Mapping to visualize workflow and identify waste; Kanban systems to limit work-in-progress, facilitate pull-based work authorization, and surface bottlenecks; Root Cause Analysis to get to the heart of problems; 5S activities for well-organized, mistake-proof workstations; and Kaizen events for rapid iterations. As illustrated through integrated case studies, these tools and mindsets facilitate lean’s primary aim within projects – determining what matters for the end-customer and optimizing all activities to directly serve this purpose. Tactics covered include defining value from the beneficiary standpoint early on, focusing on enhancing workflow from end-to-end rather than functional silos, and instilling learning and improvement mechanisms at all levels – from C-suite leadership to ground floor production. The paper closes by delineating a gradual implementation methodology – factoring in change management challenges – as well as outlining skills development required for staff to transition toward cross-functional, accountable, lean-oriented teams. While specifics vary across industries and project types, overarching insights suggest the principles represent the future of project delivery – cutting waste-related costs by upwards of 30%, accelerating timelines by over a third, minimizing scrap/rework to near-zero levels, and serving customer goals substantially better. For leaders to position projects and organizations for increasing marketplace complexity, leanness is pivotal.

Large-scale quantum key distribution network simulator

The wide range of supported services in modern telecommunication networks has increased the demand for highly secure means of communication. Common security frameworks based on the computational security model are expected to become insecure due to significant advances in quantum computing. Quantum key distribution (QKD), a new secret key agreement primitive, enables long-anticipated practical information-theoretical security (ITS). Over the past two decades, academic and industrial communities have devoted their time and resources to developing QKD-based networks that can distribute and serve ITS keys to remote parties. However, because the availability of QKD network testbeds to the larger research community is limited and the deployment of such systems is costly and difficult, progress in this area is noticeably slow. To address this problem and spur future development and education, we provide a valuable, unique tool for simulating a QKD network. The tool is essential to testing novel network management methodologies applied to large-scale QKD networks. The simulator model contained in the tool was validated by simulating a network with six nodes and three pairs of users. The results indicate that the designed functional elements operate correctly.

Optimizing the Economic Order Quantity Using Fuzzy Theory and Machine Learning Applied to a Pharmaceutical Framework

In this article, we present a novel methodology for inventory management in the pharmaceutical industry, considering the nature of its supply chain. Traditional inventory models often fail to capture the particularities of the pharmaceutical sector, characterized by limited storage space, product degradation, and trade credits. To address these particularities, using fuzzy logic, we propose models that are adaptable to real-world scenarios. The proposed models are designed to reduce total costs for both vendors and clients, a gap not explored in the existing literature. Our methodology employs pentagonal fuzzy number (PFN) arithmetic and Kuhn–Tucker optimization. Additionally, the integration of the naive Bayes (NB) classifier and the use of the Weka artificial intelligence suite increase the effectiveness of our model in complex decision-making environments. A key finding is the high classification accuracy of the model, with the NB classifier correctly categorizing approximately 95.9% of the scenarios, indicating an operational efficiency. This finding is complemented by the model capability to determine the optimal production quantity, considering cost factors related to manufacturing and transportation, which is essential in minimizing overall inventory costs. Our methodology, based on machine learning and fuzzy logic, enhances the inventory management in dynamic sectors like the pharmaceutical industry. While our focus is on a single-product scenario between suppliers and buyers, future research hopes to extend this focus to wider contexts, as epidemic conditions and other applications.

LEVERAGING PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN HVAC OPERATIONS: A PATH TO CLIMATE RESILIENCE

Efficient management of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is paramount for mitigating energy consumption and enhancing climate resilience in modern infrastructure. This review explores the significance of leveraging project management tools to optimize energy efficiency within HVAC operations, thus fostering a pathway towards climate resilience. The integration of project management methodologies offers a systematic approach to address challenges associated with energy consumption in HVAC systems, thereby facilitating informed decision-making processes. Firstly, the review delves into the pressing need for energy conservation in HVAC operations amidst escalating concerns over climate change and its adverse impacts. The imperative to minimize energy consumption in buildings, particularly through HVAC systems, is highlighted as a pivotal step towards achieving climate resilience and sustainability goals. Subsequently, the review outlines the role of project management tools in orchestrating effective strategies to enhance energy efficiency within HVAC operations. By employing techniques such as project scheduling, risk management, and resource allocation, project managers can streamline the implementation of energy-efficient measures, thereby optimizing HVAC system performance and reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, the review underscores the importance of data analytics and technological advancements in augmenting the efficacy of project management tools for energy efficiency in HVAC operations. Leveraging real-time data monitoring, predictive analytics, and IoT-enabled devices enables proactive maintenance and continuous optimization of HVAC systems, thereby maximizing energy savings and bolstering climate resilience. Furthermore, the review elucidates the potential benefits and challenges associated with the adoption of project management tools for energy efficiency in HVAC operations. While improved cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and operational performance emerge as primary benefits, challenges such as initial investment costs, technological complexities, and organizational inertia necessitate careful consideration. This review advocates for the integration of project management tools as a viable approach to foster energy efficiency in HVAC operations, thereby paving the way towards enhanced climate resilience and sustainability in built environments. By embracing innovative methodologies and technological solutions, stakeholders can mitigate energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and fortify infrastructure against the impacts of climate change.
 Keywords: HVAC, Climate Resilience, Project Management, Energy, Review.

MineCam: Application of Combined Remote Sensing and Machine Learning for Segmentation and Change Detection of Mining Areas Enabling Multi-Purpose Monitoring

Our study addresses the need for universal monitoring solutions given the diverse environmental impacts of surface mining operations. We present a solution combining remote sensing and machine learning techniques, utilizing a dataset of over 2000 satellite images annotated with ten distinct labels indicating mining area components. We tested various approaches to develop comprehensive yet universal machine learning models for mining area segmentation. This involved considering different types of mines, raw materials, and geographical locations. We evaluated multiple satellite data set combinations to determine optimal outcomes. The results suggest that radar and multispectral data fusion did not significantly improve the models’ performance, and the addition of further channels led to the degradation of the metrics. Despite variations in mine type or extracted material, the models’ effectiveness remained within an Intersection over Union value range of 0.65–0.75. Further, in this research, we conducted a detailed visual analysis of the models’ outcomes to identify areas requiring additional attention, contributing to the discourse on effective mining area monitoring and management methodologies. The visual examination of models’ outputs provides insights for future model enhancement and highlights unique segmentation challenges within mining areas.

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HVAC SYSTEM DESIGN AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT

In the face of rapidly changing climate conditions, the field of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system design and project management is confronted with a myriad of challenges. This review delves into the critical importance of assessing the impact of climate change on these aspects and highlights key considerations for industry professionals. Climate change poses multifaceted challenges to HVAC system design and project management, primarily due to its influence on temperature patterns, extreme weather events, and evolving energy demands. Rising global temperatures necessitate innovative approaches to cooling systems, with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainable practices. Furthermore, the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves and extreme cold spells demand HVAC systems that can adapt dynamically to fluctuating environmental conditions. The review underscores the significance of incorporating climate projections and future-proofing strategies into HVAC system design. By leveraging predictive modeling techniques and climate data, engineers can optimize system performance, minimize energy consumption, and enhance indoor air quality amidst changing climatic conditions. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and geothermal technologies is explored as a means to mitigate the environmental impact of HVAC systems and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Effective project management in the context of climate change entails proactive risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Project managers must anticipate potential disruptions arising from extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory changes influenced by climate policies. Adopting adaptive project management methodologies enables stakeholders to respond swiftly to emerging challenges and ensure project resilience in the face of climatic uncertainties. This review underscores the imperative for industry stakeholders to embrace a proactive approach towards assessing the impact of climate change on HVAC system design and project management. By prioritizing resilience, sustainability, and innovation, professionals can navigate the complexities posed by climate change and contribute towards a more resilient built environment.
 Keywords: Climate Change, HVAC, Project Management, System Design, Review.

TOMSAC - Methodology for trade-off management between automotive safety and cyber security

Safety and security interdependencies have been of interest for researchers for several decades. However, in practice, they are not given the necessary consideration yet due to various reasons, such as lack of understanding and reluctance to change current practices. This research is aimed at advancing the state of the art in this area by developing a practical, easy to adapt and to use methodology for managing interdependencies and trade-offs throughout the development lifetime of cyber physical systems. The methodology is named TOMSAC, short for Trade-Off Management between Safety And Cyber security.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR ACCELERATING ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN HVAC SYSTEMS AMIDST CLIMATE CHANGE

Amidst the escalating impacts of climate change, optimizing energy efficiency in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems emerges as a critical imperative. This review explores project management strategies aimed at accelerating energy efficiency in HVAC systems amidst climate change challenges. In response to climate change, the urgency to mitigate energy consumption in HVAC systems has intensified. Project management plays a pivotal role in orchestrating systematic approaches to address this challenge. Firstly, effective project management entails comprehensive planning. This involves conducting thorough energy audits and assessments to identify inefficiencies and prioritize improvement opportunities. Utilizing advanced technologies such as Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) can enhance data collection and analysis for informed decision-making. Secondly, stakeholder engagement is essential for successful project implementation. Collaboration between building owners, facility managers, engineers, and contractors facilitates alignment of goals and resources. Clear communication channels and regular progress updates foster accountability and momentum throughout the project lifecycle. Thirdly, project management methodologies like Agile or Lean can streamline HVAC efficiency initiatives. Iterative development allows for continuous improvement, enabling teams to adapt to evolving requirements and incorporate feedback effectively. Moreover, risk management strategies are vital to anticipate and mitigate potential obstacles. Contingency plans for supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and unforeseen technical challenges ensure project resilience and minimize disruptions. Lastly, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are indispensable for tracking project performance and verifying energy savings. Utilizing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and performance benchmarks enables stakeholders to measure success and adjust strategies as needed. Effective project management strategies are indispensable for accelerating energy efficiency in HVAC systems amidst climate change. By emphasizing comprehensive planning, stakeholder engagement, agile methodologies, risk management, and continuous evaluation, organizations can navigate challenges and realize substantial energy savings in HVAC operations.
 Keywords: Project Management, HVAC, Climate Change, Energy, Efficiency, Review.

Empirical exploration of predictive maintenance in concrete manufacturing: Harnessing machine learning for enhanced equipment reliability in construction project management

Predictive Maintenance (PdM) in concrete manufacturing, particularly when viewed through construction project management, is increasingly recognized for its significance. The potential for PdM to predict structural inadequacies and systematically plan machinery maintenance is essential for seamless construction workflows. The primary focus of this investigation was to utilize the capabilities of machine learning (ML) algorithms to develop and validate sophisticated predictive models. These models aimed to proactively identify maintenance needs, thereby reducing unexpected downtimes and malfunctions in machinery vital to the concrete production cycle. Within this investigation, seven predominant ML classifiers –Logistic Regression (LR), Decision Tree (DT), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Categorical boosting (CatBoost) and Random Forest (RF) – were thoroughly evaluated. Their effectiveness was gauged using several metrics, including the F1-score, Accuracy, Recall, and the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. Notably, the CatBoost surpassed its peers, achieving an F1-score of 0.985, an accuracy of 0.984, a Recall of 0.983, and an ROC curve area of 0.984. Additionally, certain indicators (i.e., 24-hour mean vibration, 24-hour mean pressure, Error3-count, and 24-hour mean volt) were identified as pivotal in predicting machinery failure within the concrete manufacturing framework. Insights from this empirical study further underscore the importance of embedding ML into construction project management methodologies. Insights from this empirical study further emphasize the importance of embedding ML into construction project management methodologies. Such integration enhances the precision of maintenance forecasts and bolsters equipment dependability, ensuring that the concrete manufacturing paradigm is both effective and optimally beneficial.

Methodology for managing the transparency of enterprise development in condition of convergence of investment processes

Methods. In the process of improving the methodology of transparency management of the development of enterprises in the conditions of convergence of investment processes, methods of analysis and synthesis, empirical methods, methods of induction and deduction, graphic and logical methods were used. The methodological basis of the research is parametric and classification methods, the results of which allow improving the methodology of transparency management of the development of enterprises in the conditions of convergence of investment processes. Results. The article improves the methodology of managing the transparency of the development of enterprises in the conditions of convergence of investment processes, the main purpose of which is to create and implement the necessary management resources and competencies that determine the maximization of the level of development. The methodology is necessary to ensure the competitive stability of industrial enterprises, which, in turn, requires them to make strategic and effective management decisions in order to achieve the main goals of enterprises - maximizing production, sales, profit, resources, thereby ensuring an effective development and potential management policy. Novelty consists in improving the transparency management methodology of enterprise development in conditions of convergence of investment processes. Practical value. The development of a methodology for managing the transparency of the development of enterprises in the conditions of the convergence of investment processes is one of the most important prerequisites for achieving the maximum level of development, competitiveness and security in the current and future time space. The determined methodology includes a complex of interconnected elements, takes into account the presence of short-term and long-term equilibrium interaction and cause-and-effect relationships between the researched components of development transparency and investment processes at industrial enterprises, which makes it possible to assess the positive development effect of financial and investment activity in dynamics, in particular, it allows to identify and predict nonlinear cyclical processes in enterprises as a whole and in certain local directions of transparency of development, to determine the characteristic trends and interrelationships of the behavior of strategic trajectories of the transparency management system of the development of enterprises in the conditions of convergence of investment processes, which is a renovation basis for the formation of a set of general justified strategies and mechanisms of development of industrial enterprises.

Optimizing urban emergency response: a methodology for address management in the city of Algiers

Optimizing urban emergency response: a methodology for address management in the city of Algiers

A Review of Research on Supply Chain Resilience Evaluation Indicator System and Evaluation Methods

In the context of intensifying globalization and escalating supply chain risks, the study of supply chain resilience has increasingly attracted significant scholarly attention globally. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current research landscape on the definition of supply chain resilience, its evaluation metric systems, and assessment methodologies, with an in-depth analysis of pertinent literature from both domestic and international sources. The extant research reveals a lack of consensus on the precise definition of supply chain resilience. The predominant evaluation methodologies encompass index weighting methods, mathematical modeling approaches, and simulation techniques, each possessing distinct advantages and limitations. This paper underscores the necessity for future research to emphasize the contextual variability in supply chain complexity, bolster the inherent resilience of supply chains, and develop more objective and versatile evaluation models. Furthermore, the integration of emerging technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and blockchain is anticipated to play a pivotal role in enhancing supply chain resilience. The deployment of these advanced technologies not only offers novel avenues for theoretical exploration but also furnishes crucial tools and methodologies for practical supply chain management.

Warming up to Arctic shipping: Unique risk management challenges for marine insurers

Due to diminishing ice shelves in the Arctic, no doubt caused by climate change, previously unnavigable marine spaces are opening up, which in turn may provide new maritime routes. The shipping and maritime industry may capitalise on these routes more in the future as they provide shorter sailing times, and may assist with increasing oil and gas exploration and extraction in the region. However, increased maritime expansion in the Arctic comes with a number of unique risks and hazards for the insured and insurer. This opinion therefore seeks to discuss the implications of the multitude of risks that are associated with Arctic shipping from a marine insurance perspective and to highlight some of the gaps in existing regulatory frameworks. It is argued that marine insurers require improved data and risk management methodologies in order to better calculate the premiums of Hull & Machinery (H&M) and Protection & Indemnity (P&I) insurance policies for ships travelling through the Arctic. Until such time as these risks can be adequately assessed, evaluated, and managed by insurers; which of course is extremely difficult, due to the extreme environment, the unpredictability of climate change, a lack of key data, and the complexity of the various scenarios that can unfold in the Arctic environment, the practical viability of Arctic shipping remains doubtful. To date, insurers have paid out more in ship damage that has occurred in the Arctic than they have collected in premiums, which in itself is problematic. This situation may change in the future if Arctic shipping grows, and if it does the insurance market will no doubt, need to respond.

Совершенствование методики управления профессиональными рисками

The issue of occupational safety improving methods has been considered based on the example of a single enterprise. The area of improvement of activities a priori aiming at occupational safety has been chosen. In particular, the optimization of risk management stages at the workplace has been proposed. A risk management methodology consisting of standard stages (identification, assessment, management) but including separate improved levels or elements has been developed. A set of tables for volumetric, qualitative, and quantitative identification of hazards enabling the reduction of the number of unaccounted risks at the workplace has been formed. For the risk assessment stage, the application of an increasing human factor coefficient that reflects the individual characteristics of an employee affecting risk levels at the workplace has been proposed. For the relevant cases, it is recommended to use the machinery equipment assessment model to detect more risks at the workplace equipped with a machine. The occupational risk management stage has been improved due to differentiated and clarified formulations of hazards, which allows for choosing a correct and efficient measure. The methodology is also supplemented with a set aiming at occupational and industrial stress. For the identification stage, a set of parameters has been selected to determine psychosocial risks. The risk management process has been improved in the part of stress factors. In order to substantiate the performance and efficiency of the improved methodology as compared with the methodology applied at the enterprise, a comparative analysis of the two methodologies has been conducted at 10 different workplaces. The data confirming the increase of performance and efficiency of the improved methodology has been provided, which logically, on the condition of the consistent implementation of all occupational risk management stages, will reduce risks at the workplace and the number of industrial injuries, and ensure increased occupational safety.

The sphere of State customs services as a service economic and management system: Conceptual ideas and research problems

Subject. The article considers the sphere of State customs services, presented as a service economic and management system. Objectives. The aim is to present conceptual provisions and reveal problematic areas of research in the sphere of State customs services as an economic system. Methods. The study rests on the methodology of systems analysis and a holistic evolutionary approach, using methods of critical, structural, and comparative analysis. Results. Based on the synthesis of economic and managerial approaches, an attempt is made to comprehend the representation of the sphere of State customs services as a sphere of economic production, where the main product of labor of customs officials is a managerial decision as a service. The sphere of customs services is considered as a holistic tiered economic and management system. The aspects characterizing the system, i.e. service (service–oriented, customer-focused, etc.), economic, managerial, organizational, organizational and economic, and others can be studied as specific systems in the context of a system-wide formulation of integrity issues. Conclusions. The synthesis of economic and managerial methodology in the form of organizational and economic approach enabled to formulate a range of urgent problems requiring development and being priority areas of scientific research within the framework of the specialty passport.

Methodology, application and platform for urban security planning and management

With the acceleration of economic development and urban construction, urban security accidents have occurred around the world with alarming frequency, causing serious casualties and economic losses. Urban security planning and management as emerging areas of research have drawn widespread attention. For city development plans, urban security planning and management have become one of major topics. This paper first outlines the principles of urban security planning and management, combined with the construction of a digital and intelligent platform for urban emergency management. This research then analyzes the core technology and equipment support system of urban security management and its practical application. It also presents a new model based on urban security planning and management, followed by examples of its application in some mega infrastructure development for security planning and design (for example, Singapore Changi Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Transportation Hub). Additionally, a blast protection concept of urban security planning and management is provided.

Driving sustainable growth in SME manufacturing: The role of digital transformation, project, and capture management

In the landscape of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) within the manufacturing sector, achieving sustainable growth amidst increasing competition and evolving market demands presents a significant challenge. This abstract delves into the pivotal role of digital transformation, project management, and capture management in fostering sustainable growth for SME manufacturers. Digital transformation has emerged as a transformative force, offering SME manufacturers unprecedented opportunities to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and expand their market reach. Through the adoption of advanced technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cloud computing, SMEs can streamline operations, improve product quality, and swiftly adapt to changing consumer preferences. Moreover, effective project management plays a crucial role in driving sustainable growth by ensuring timely delivery of products, cost optimization, and resource utilization. By implementing robust project management methodologies such as Agile or Lean, SME manufacturers can mitigate risks, enhance collaboration, and accelerate innovation, thereby gaining a competitive edge in the market. Furthermore, capture management, encompassing the identification, qualification, and pursuit of business opportunities, is instrumental in securing long-term growth for SME manufacturers. By strategically identifying target markets, understanding customer needs, and developing tailored solutions, SMEs can effectively capitalize on emerging opportunities and strengthen their market position. However, harnessing the synergies between digital transformation, project management, and capture management requires a comprehensive strategic approach. SME manufacturers must invest in cultivating a culture of innovation, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and nurturing talent equipped with the requisite digital and managerial skills. Driving sustainable growth in SME manufacturing necessitates a holistic approach that integrates digital transformation, project management, and capture management strategies. By embracing technological advancements, optimizing operational processes, and seizing market opportunities, SME manufacturers can embark on a trajectory of sustained success in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing.

Defining compromise area in the processes of multimodal delivery organization within the agile approach

The level of competition in the transport market requires delivery organizers to implement better approaches based on modern management methodologies, in particular, agile, which makes it possible to provide a modern level of service to cargo owners. The object of this research is the processes of organizing multimodal delivery. The subject of the study is the area of compromise in the processes of organizing multimodal delivery based on the agile approach. The term «compromise area» is introduced, which reflects the numerical limits of product parameters in the general case. For the transportation domain under consideration, the «trade-off area» reflects the limits of the characteristics of multimodal delivery, which is the «product» for the multimodal operator. A set of alternative options for multimodal delivery forms the basis for establishing the dependence of the cost of delivery on time and its reliability (possible time deviation). The area in the «time-reliability-cost» space, which is formed on the basis of this dependence, on the one hand, and the requirements of the cargo owner, taking into account their possible adjustment, on the other hand, is the area of compromise. This area is proposed for use in agile approaches to the organization of multimodal delivery. Balancing the interests of the cargo owner and the multimodal operator allows changing the limits of the compromise area within the framework of the proposed scheme of agile cycles in the process of planning and organizing delivery. On the example of delivering a container with cargo from China to Kyiv, regression linear models were built. These models formalize the dependence of delivery cost on reliability and/or time. Using the example of varying the requirements of the cargo owner regarding the limitations of some delivery characteristics, the formation of the compromise area and its adjustment was carried out, which demonstrated the practical aspects of the formation of the compromise area for multimodal delivery. The results are the basis for the implementation of the agile approach in the field of multimodal transportation. The further development of these results consists in the construction of mathematical models that could form the basis for finding solutions in the area of compromise

Methodology for Energy Management in a Smart Microgrid Based on the Efficiency of Dispatchable Renewable Generation Sources and Distributed Storage Systems

This paper presents a methodology for energy management in a smart microgrid based on the efficiency of dispatchable generation sources and storage systems, with three different aims: elimination of power peaks; optimisation of the operation and performance of the microgrid; and reduction of energy consumption from the distribution network. The methodology is based on four steps: identification of elements of the microgrid, monitoring of the elements, characterization of the efficiency of the elements, and finally, microgrid energy management. A specific use case is shown at CEDER-CIEMAT (Centro para el Desarrollo de las Energías Renovables—Centro de Investi-gaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas), where consumption has been reduced during high tariff periods and power peaks have been eliminated, allowing an annual reduction of more than 25,000 kWh per year, which is equal to savings of more than 8500 €. It also allows the power contracted from the distribution company by CEDER (135 kW) not to be exceeded, which avoids penalties in the electricity bill.