Process Methodology Research Articles

SQUIRE-SIM (Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence for SIMulation): Publication Guidelines for Simulation-Based Quality Improvement Projects.

With increased incorporation of simulation-based methodologies into quality improvement activities, standards for reporting on simulation-specific elements in healthcare improvement research are needed. We followed established consensus process methodology to iteratively create simulation-based extensions for SQUIRE 2.0 reporting guidelines. Initial steps involved forming a steering committee, defining the scope, and conducting premeeting activities with an expert panel of simulation and quality improvement researchers. Recommendations from the expert panel were brought to a consensus meeting where existing guidelines were reviewed and recommendations made. Steering Committee members reviewed all recommendations, reconciled differences, and made final recommendations, which were piloted by experienced simulation and quality improvement researchers. Fifteen Steering Committee members, 59 experts in simulation and quality improvement research, and 86 consensus meeting attendees reviewed SQUIRE 2.0 reporting guidelines and ultimately recommended simulation-based reporting guidelines for 22 of the 41 (54%) SQUIRE 2.0 guidelines. Those items for which simulation-based extensions were identified were: Notes to Authors, 1 (Title), 2a (Abstract), 2b (Abstract), 4 (Introduction: Available knowledge), 5 (Introduction: Rationale), 7 and 8a & b (Methods: Context and intervention), 9a (Methods - Study of the intervention), 9b (Methods - Study of the intervention), 10a (Methods - Measures), 10b (Methods-Measures), 10c (Methods-Measures), 11b (Methods- Analysis), 12 (Methods - Ethical considerations), 13a (Results), 13e (Results), 14b (Discussion - Summary), 15a-e (Discussion - Interpretation), 16a (Discussion - Limitations), 16b (Discussion - Limitations), 17c (Discussion - Conclusions), and 17d (Discussion - Conclusions). We created simulation-based extensions to SQUIRE 2.0 reporting guidelines to improve the quality and standardization of reporting on simulation-specific elements of healthcare improvement research.

Reliability Evaluation of Multi-State Solar Energy Generating System with Inverters Considering Common Cause Failures

To ensure the efficient functioning of solar energy generation systems, it is crucial to have dependable designs and regular maintenance. However, when these systems or their components operate at multiple working levels, optimizing reliability becomes a complex task for models and analyses. In the context of reliability modeling in solar energy generation systems, researchers often assume that random variables follow an exponential distribution (binary-state representation) as a simplification, although this may not always hold true for real-world engineering systems. In the present paper, a multi-state solar energy generating system with inverters in series configuration is investigated, in which unreliable by-pass changeover switches, common cause failures (CCFs), and multiple repairman vacations are also considered. Furthermore, the arrivals of CCFs and the repair processes of the failed system due to CCFs are governed by different Markovian arrival processes (MAPs), and the lifetimes and repair times of inverters and by-pass changeover switches and the repairman vacation time in the system have different phase-type (PH) distributions. Therefore, the behavior of the system is represented using a Markov process methodology, and reliability measures for the proposed system are derived utilizing aggregated stochastic process theory. Finally, a numerical example and a comparison analysis are presented to demonstrate the findings.

Data-driven aeroelastic analyses of structures in turbulent wind conditions using enhanced Gaussian Processes with aerodynamic priors

Recent advancements in data-driven aeroelasticity have been driven by the wealth of data available in the wind engineering practice, especially in modeling aerodynamic forces. Despite progress, challenges persist in addressing free-stream turbulence and incorporating physics knowledge into data-driven aerodynamic force models. This paper presents a hybrid Gaussian Process (GPs) methodology for non-linear modeling of aerodynamic forces induced by gusts and motion on bluff bodies. Building on a recently developed GP model of the motion-induced forces, we formulate a hybrid GP aerodynamic force model that incorporates both gust- and motion-induced angles of attack as exogenous inputs, alongside a semi-analytical quasi-steady (QS) model as a physics-based prior knowledge. In this manner, the GP model incorporates the absent physics of the QS model, and the non-dimensional hybrid formulation enhances its appeal from an aerodynamic perspective. We devise a training procedure that leverages simultaneous input signals of gust angles, based on random free-stream turbulence, and motion angles, based on random broadband signals. We verify the methodology through analytical linear aerodynamics of a flat plate and non-linear aerodynamics of a bridge deck using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The standout feature of the presented methodology is its applicability for aeroelastic buffeting analyses, showcasing robustness when handling broadband excitation. Importantly, the non-linear hybrid model preserves its capability to capture higher-order harmonics in the motion-induced forces and remains applicable for flutter analysis, while incorporating both motion and gust angles as input. Applications of the methodology are anticipated in the aeroelastic analysis and monitoring of slender line-like structures.

Transversal integration methodology for the development of productive didacticprojects in technical education

The present study deals with the importance of the transversal integration methodology in the educational process, specifically in the development of productive didactic projects in the technical baccalaureate in the professional figure of agricultural production. The methodology used was quantitative positivist of a descriptive type and non-experimental design. The population was represented by 9 technical teachers and 28 first-year students of said high school. Regarding data collection, a questionnaire with a Likert-type scale was used. The results of this research demonstrate that teachers and students value the methodology of productive didactic projects, but ota ll projects are interdisciplinary. It is concluded that productive didactic projects are not evaluated by teachers and students value this methodology.

How can generative artificial intelligence improve digital supply chain performance in manufacturing firms? Analyzing the mediating role of innovation ambidexterity using hybrid analysis through CB-SEM and PLS-SEM

Artificial intelligence capabilities (AIC) can influence supply chain management (SCM) in multiple ways. This study explores how generative artificial intelligence capabilities (GAIC) could affect digital supply chain performance (DSCP) through ambidexterity innovation (AMI), which includes both elements, exploratory and exploitative innovations in the manufacturing firms (MFs) in Jordan as a developing and emerging economy. This study adopted a quantitative methodology for the data collection process applying a cross-sectional approach through testing deductive-hypotheses techniques. 263 valid surveys were used for analysis using hybrid analysis measurements (i.e., PLS-SEM, and CB-SEM). Further, it was applied data reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity tests. Additionally, examined the mediating effect of exploratory innovation (EXPI), and exploitative innovation (EXTI) on DSCP. The study findings assured that the proposed direct and indirect causal associations illustrated in the study model were accepted due to that all associations between the dimensions s were statistically significant. The findings of the GAIC supported a positive relationship between GAIC and the DSCP, GAIC on EXPI and EXTI, and EXPI and EXTI on DSCP respectively. Furthermore, the mediating effect of EXPI and EXTI is statistically significant, which was confirmed. This study developed a conceptual model to merge GAIC, AMI, and DSCP. This study provides new outcomes that bridge the existing research gap in the literature by testing the mediation model with a focus on the MF benefits of GAIC to improve levels of EXPI, EXTI, and DSCP in Jordan as a developing and emerging economy. Furthermore, this study is considered unique, as it was the first study in Jordan, and through applying hybrid analysis measurements using both PLS-SEM and CB-SEM methods.

Catalyzing teacher moves in small-group problem solving: a quantitative discourse analysis

ABSTRACT This report validates a novel quantitative methodology for analyzing moment-to-moment interactions in classrooms called the Poisson Process Methodology (PPM). PPM differs from moment-to-moment qualitative and quantitative analyzes typically used in education by using time-series data to quantify the degree to which the presence of facilitator moves affect the future rate of student actions. Using PPM in the context of small-group problem solving further validates the use of the method in several settings in education. We applied the method to data from a larger study about students’ engagement in reasoning abstractly and quantitatively as they worked on mathematics problems with a facilitator. We present empirical results of PPM performed on two semi-structured interviews involving a facilitator and two students, which led to some interpretable results that extend previous understandings of forms of talk that promote quantitative reasoning.

Analysis and Design of Customer Relationship Management System on the SMEs Using Iconix Process

Background: Integrating Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems is crucial for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance customer relations and profitability. Many SMEs in Indonesia, including Go-Sumber Plastik, still need to fully utilize CRM systems, which are essential for managing customer data, improving satisfaction, and retaining customers. Objective: The purpose of this research is to analyze and design a web-based CRM system for Go-Sumber Plastik using the Iconix Process methodology to enhance user interaction and overall system effectiveness. Methods: The study employed the Iconix Process methodology, which includes a use case, robustness, sequence diagrams, a GUI prototype, and a test plan. The design was tested using Maze to measure user interaction efficiency and satisfaction. Results: The research revealed significant challenges in user understanding of the CRM system, particularly in managing activities and adding customer information. Tasks such as reporting and logging in had good user performance. The overall user interaction score was 81.1, indicating moderate effectiveness of the initial design. Conclusion: The results underscore the necessity for a more intuitive and streamlined CRM system interface for Go-Sumber Plastik. Implementing an effective CRM system can improve SMEs' competitiveness and profitability by systematically enhancing communication, managing customer data, and boosting business performance. Future research should focus on refining the user interface to reduce error rates and improve task completion efficiency. Enhanced visibility and user guidance are recommended to optimize system usability and customer satisfaction.

Envisioning scenarios in designs for Networked Learning

This article presents an application of a design methodology to envision implicit value hierarchies in the design process of a digital learning platform meant to encompass learning processes and activities conducive to experiential collaborative learning (ECL). The authors argue that many technologies for the field of education fall short of their purposes and neglect intended underpinning pedagogy and didactics. Previous research efforts in networked learning have primarily focused on conceptual critiques of the implementation of EdTech and warned of technological euphoria undermining relevant caution. This means, that when a design team tries to conceptualize technological artefacts into a script the more ethical and value-oriented parts of the learning process tend to be ignored. While we agree with the conceptual critiques, our approach has instead been to engage with the design process and implement appropriate methodologies in an attempt to highlight implicit value hierarchies in the underlying learning theory. When using technologies in Networked learning we thus emphasize that both designers and stakeholders should engage in a systematic discussion and reflection of values and related judgements while constructing a value hierarchy. Through a Value-based design methodology based on semantic zooming we thus present 7 interconnected envisioning scenarios developed in the UnFoLD project to demonstrate how it is possible to operationalize values into detailed design briefs or technological scripts. This article will through presented experiences from a design process, show how the methodology of envisioning scenarios can be applied to mitigate the risks of implementation technology in a learning situation. We argue that an awareness and mapping of values as a part of the design process is essential and that an increased focus on the ethical and moral responsibilities of designers and involved researchers are important as technologies should not be seen as isolated, value-neutral, or uncomplicated translations of analogue teaching activities. The purpose of the article is to inspire other researchers and designers to implement value hierarchies, envisioning scenarios, or other similar methods to ensure that pedagogical and didactic priorities are not lost in accommodating marketability, practicalities, or technological constraints.

Mapping the Clinical Pathway for Patients Undergoing Vestibular Schwannoma Resection

The introduction of the electronic health record (EHR) has improved the collection and storage of patient information, enhancing clinical communication and academic research. However, EHRs are limited by data quality and the time-consuming task of manual data extraction. This study aimed to use process mapping to help identify critical data entry points within the clinical pathway for patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) ideal for structured data entry and automated data collection to improve patient care and research. A 2-stage methodology was used at a neurosurgical unit. Process maps were developed using semi-structured interviews with stakeholders in the management of VS resection. Process maps were then retrospectively validated against EHRs for patients admitted between August 2019 and December 2021, establishing critical data entry points. In the process map development, 20 stakeholders were interviewed. Process maps were validated against EHRs of 36 patients admitted for VS resection. Operative notes, surgical inpatient reviews (including ward rounds), and discharge summaries were available for all patients, representing critical data entry points. Areas for documentation improvement were in the preoperative clinics (30/36; 83.3%), preoperative skull base multidisciplinary team (32/36; 88.9%), postoperative follow-up clinics (32/36; 88.9%), and postoperative skull base multidisciplinary team meeting (29/36; 80.6%). This is a first use to our knowledge of a 2-stage methodology for process mapping the clinical pathway for patients undergoing VS resection. We identified critical data entry points that can be targeted for structured data entry and for automated data collection tools, positively impacting patient care and research.

Urban greenway planning: Identifying optimal locations for active travel corridors through individual mobility assessment

Greenways are planned for various goals including nature conservation and promoting mobility by foot or bike in urban areas. A challenge associated with designed greenways pertains to their underutilization for mobility. Due to their multi-functionality greenways are usually not designed with a focus on active mobility, and thus, do not necessarily correspond with daily mobility patterns. This study addresses this issue by devising a methodology for the identification of optimal locations for active urban greenways within a metropolitan expanse, strategically aligned with the day-to-day pursuits of its inhabitants. Distinguished from prior greenway research, this investigation emphasizes individual mobility and adds a novel perspective to greenway planning. The method was tested in the city of Mashhad in Iran. By employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process methodology in conjunction with a Geographic Information System (GIS) and a gravity formula, a meticulous selection process yielded 19 nodes (sites) deemed most suitable for greenway implementation, selected from a pool of 93 prospective nodes. These findings offer pragmatic insights into the expansion of greenways tailored to the daily activities of urban inhabitants, thus complementing established greenway paradigms and strengthening the mobility dimension and active travel corridors in urban greenway planning.

The Montessori method in preprimary classrooms: logical-mathematical thinking with sensory material

When choosing a methodology for the teaching-learning process of logical-mathematical thinking, the possibilities available to the teacher are immense. The Montessori method is known for being based on freedom and spontaneous activity, as well as for the characteristic material used. The main objective of this research is to show the pedagogical possibilities of the Montessori method for the learning of the logical-mathematical competence in Second Cycle classes of Preprimary Education. Participants were 39 children. Three didactic activities based on the Montessori method were designed for the purpose of the study, and the instrument used to gather information was a Likert scale check list composed by a number of measurable items related to addition, subtraction, and operations on inequalities. The results of the study encourage both practicing and future teachers to apply the Montessori method in the classrooms as it is an attractive methodology for preprimary students and motivates them to learn contents. It can be concluded that endless contents can be developed with this method, not only logical-mathematical ones, but also any aspect that can be dealt with in the classroom.

Implementation of the use of active methodologies used by preceptors of the pain outpatient clinic of the University Hospital of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora: Experience report

Introduction: The Multiprofessional Pain Outpatient Clinic (AMD) was created at the University Hospital of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (HU-UFJF) to offer an integrated and interprofessional approach to the treatment of chronic pain, in line with the Multiprofessional Residency in Adult Health. To face the complex demands of AMD and promote more engaged and meaningful learning, the need arose to use Active Methodologies (AM) in the teaching-learning process of residents. Objective: To report the creation of a preceptorship plan for the implementation of active methodologies in the teaching-learning process of AMD, with the objective of developing critical, communication and teamwork skills in health professionals and promoting more effective and integrated care for patients with chronic pain. Experience Report: The study adopted the format of an experience report and took place at AMD, involving an interprofessional team composed of residents and preceptors. Several active methodologies were used, such as case studies, problem-based learning, interprofessional teaching, experiential learning, among others. The implementation of active methodologies in AMD demonstrated significant potentialities, including improvements in resident performance, development of communication and teamwork skills, favoring interdisciplinary practices, and academia-service integration. A more active and engaged participation of students in the discussions of clinical cases was observed, resulting in a deeper understanding of the clinical concepts presented. Conclusion: Active methodologies represent an effective strategy to promote learning and professional development in AMD, contributing to a more integrated and efficient care for patients with chronic pain. The study highlights the importance of continuous training of health professionals and the search for innovative practices in the context of chronic pain.

An Indigenous-informed scoping review study methodology: advancing the science of scoping reviews

BackgroundHistorically, Indigenous voices have been silent in health research, reflective of colonial academic institutions that privilege Western ways of knowing. However, Indigenous methodologies and methods with an emphasis on the active involvement of Indigenous peoples and centering Indigenous voices are gaining traction in health education and research. In this paper, we map each phase of our scoping review process and weave Indigenous research methodologies into Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework for conducting scoping reviews.MethodsGuided by an advisory circle consisting of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and allied scholars, we utilized both Indigenous and Western methods to conduct a scoping review. As such, a circle of Knowledge Keepers provided guidance and informed our work, while our methods of searching and scoping the literature remained consistent with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. In keeping with an Indigenous methodology, the scoping review protocol was not registered allowing for an organic development of the research process.ResultsWe built upon Arksey and O’Malley’s 5-stages and added an additional 3 steps for a combined 8-stage model to guide our research: (1) Exploration and Listening, (2) Doing the Groundwork, (3) Identifying and Refining the Research Question, (4) Identifying Relevant Studies, (5) Study Selection, (6) Mapping Data, (7) Collating, Summarizing and Synthesizing the Data, and lastly, (8) Sharing and Making Meaning. Engagement and listening, corresponding to Arksey and O’Malley (2005)’s optional “consultation stage,” was embedded throughout, but with greater intensity in stages 1 and 8.ConclusionAn Indigenous approach to conducting a scoping review includes forming a team with a wide array of experience in both Indigenous and Western methodologies, meaningful Indigenous representation, and inclusion of Indigenous perspectives to shape the analysis and presentation of findings. Engaging Indigenous peoples throughout the entire research process, listening, and including Indigenous voices and perspectives is vital in reconciliation research, producing both credible and useable information for both Indigenous communities and academia. Our Indigenous methodology for conducting a scoping review can serve as a valuable framework for summarizing Indigenous health-related research.

Geospatial insights into Alphonso mango cultivation: a comprehensive land suitability study in the coastal belt of Maharashtra, India.

Land suitability assessment is integral to the advancement of precision agriculture. This inquiry is focused on identifying optimal regions for cultivating Alphonso mango in the coastal belt of Maharashtra, spanning across Palghar, Raigad, Thane, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts. Employing a GIS-based Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology, 10 crucial parameters have been considered, encompassing climatic, physical, and chemical soil characteristics: cation exchange capacity, organic carbon, slope, rainfall, soil pH, soil texture, mean annual soil temperature, base saturation, soil drainage, and soil depth. Weights are assigned to these parameters based on expert opinions and existing literature to determine their significance in developing a soil suitability map. The study reveals distinct land suitability zones for Alphonso mango cultivation. The land suitability map designates 25.78% of the study area as highly suitable, while 9.18% is considered unsuitable for Alphonso mango cultivation. To validate the study, the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve has been employed, indicating an 83% approval rate for the reliability and performance of the soil suitability. The results categorise soil suitability classes, providing valuable insights for farmers and agricultural planners to make informed decisions regarding Alphonso mango cultivation in similar geoenvironmental regions.

Green extraction of agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed: A comparative study of different techniques and optimization using response surface methodology

This study aimed to evaluate the optimal method for extracting agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed and assess its purity and yield. Agar is a hydrocolloid found in red seaweeds and used in various industries such as food, cosmetics, and medicine. Three different extraction methods were employed for this study, namely ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasound microwave-assisted extraction (UMAE), each using varying power levels and extraction times. A central composite Response surface methodology (RSM) design was used to compare these methods. Results showed that UAE had the highest extraction yield at 32.99 %, followed by MAE, UMAE, and conventional methods at 27.04 %, 26.19 %, and 12 %, respectively. Various techniques were used to evaluate agar quality, including spectral analysis (FT-IR), gel strength, viscosity, 3,6 anhydrous L galactose (AG), and sulfate content. Samples treated with ultrasound had higher-quality agar than those treated with other methods, with significantly better gel strength, 3,6 AG content, viscosity, and lower sulfate content. Gel strength was 485.50 ± 4.27 g cm−2, 3,6 AG content was 62.89 ± 2.89 %, viscosity was 48.32 ± 0.03 centipoises and sulfate content was 1.32 ± 0.02 % in UAE. FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups in the fingerprint region of identification for polysaccharides in UAE agar. UAE (30 min, 60 % amplitude) was identified as the most viable green extraction technology, offering superior extraction yield and agar quality compared to the other treatments. Using green extraction techniques in obtaining agar has significant implications for the sustainable production of natural products. This research also highlights the potential application of agar in the skincare or pharmaceutical industry, paving the way for developing eco-friendly products. Overall, this study suggests that UAE is an efficient method for extracting agar from H. pannosa and has novel applications in nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Novelty impact statementThe current study presents a comprehensive investigation of the green extraction of agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed using different techniques, along with optimization through response surface methodology. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on sustainable and eco-friendly extraction methods, which are increasingly gaining importance in the current global scenario. The comparative study on the different techniques used for the extraction of agar provides a critical evaluation of the advantages and limitations of each method. The use of response surface methodology in the optimization process is a noteworthy feature, as it allows for the identification of optimal extraction conditions with greater accuracy and reliability. The findings of this study significantly contribute to the development of sustainable practices in the seaweed industry, and its academic value is undeniable.

A proposed quality control process for front-end planning to minimize risk of field change orders in underground electrical construction

Controlling capital costs and cost overruns due to construction field change orders (FCOs) is essential for the electric power industry to provide affordable energy services. Conversion from overhead to underground systems due to security and climate change factors will increase the risk of FCOs due to site conditions. The failure in collaboration by front-end planning (FEP) teams can increase risk of FCOs due to missing scopes, errors in design, lack of existing field condition evaluation, constraints on the project schedule, or unexpected field conditions, among other causes. This study involved development of a quality control process that enables members of the FEP team to vote their confidence levels about risk control of FCOs before proceeding to final design. The proposed process utilized Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodologies to distribute the weights of stakeholder votes based on responsibilities for each category of FCOs to obtain an integrated metric of FEP team confidence. Data from an operational electric power utility was used to provide a case scenario approach and to illustrate the method. Three actual projects were analyzed to assess how well the process would have worked for them. The novelty of the proposed model is to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative working relationships across teams during the FEP process and to provide a quality control metric to capture risk of FCOs in the early phase to minimize cost overruns in the project execution phase.

The impact of improved beehive technology adoption on rural household income, consumption expenditure and asset wealth in Wonchi districts, Ethiopia

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of adopting enhanced beehive technology on the welfare of rural households engaged in beekeeping activities in Ethiopia. We examined the impact of adopting enhanced beehive technology on welfare outcomes in the Wonchi districts using a two-stage random selection process and propensity score matching (PSM) methodology. This research offers novel perspectives on the adoption of enhanced beehive technology and its influence on household welfare outcomes in the field of beekeeping. It employs a comprehensive analysis that takes into account several dimensions, such as income, welfare, and spending. Our research findings indicate that several characteristics have a favorable impact on the adoption of enhanced beehive technology. These factors include the gender of the household head, the size of the land, the marital status of the household head, as well as the availability of extension services, input and credit services, and the total number of animals owned. On the other hand, age, dependency ratio, and proximity to farmer training facilities negatively impact the adoption of technology. The analysis using Propensity Score Matching (PSM) methodology demonstrated that the adoption of technology had a favorable influence on the income, wealth, non-food expenditure, and food expenditure of households. However, it is important to acknowledge some limitations. As the study relied on cross-sectional data from a specific region, its findings may not be generalizable to other locations or time periods. Additionally, self-reported data is subject to biases. Other potential limitations are the omission of other factors that could influence welfare outcomes and limited assessment of long-term sustainability. Based on our research results, policymakers should prioritize efforts to understand the determinants that facilitate the acceptance and utilization of enhanced beehive technologies in order to enhance the overall well-being of rural households. Further research is needed to address the study limitations.

Implementation of Scrum in the manufacture of non-invasive blood sugar detection devices using PPG signals

This study presents the effective integration of Scrum methodology in the production process of non-invasive blood sugar testing devices using Photoplethysmography (PPG) signals. During three months, a team consisting of a Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Developer Team successfully utilized Scrum's agile structure to manage the challenges of PPG signal processing, hardware integration, and software development. The repeated sprint cycles enabled swift adjustment to new obstacles and stakeholder input, guaranteeing both effectiveness and agility in the development process. The dynamic approach facilitated both the punctual delivery of complex medical equipment and the cultivation of a culture focused on ongoing enhancement, establishing a model for the future use of agile approaches in healthcare technology. The successful implementation highlights the effectiveness of Scrum in managing the complexities of medical device development. It provides a model for improving non-invasive blood sugar detection devices and establishes agile methodologies as a key driver of innovation in healthcare technology.

Selection of the Best Students’ Leader in UPNM using Analytic Hierarchy Process Method

As university students, it is crucial for them to understand the process of selecting the most suitable student leader based on the current criteria. This research aims to gather input from the high committee of the student club, providing a set of guidelines for students to identify the appropriate criteria for selecting a fitting leader within the university. Additionally, this study serves to motivate aspiring candidates who wish to take up leadership roles, inspiring them to refine the criteria identified through the study. At Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), there exist several clubs that function as representatives of student leadership. Each club has shown their own trend leadership criteria in accordance with students’ obsecration. Employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology, this research aimed to establish a ranking of the top student clubs at UPNM. The outcomes can serve as a point of reference for managing the selection by Student Council Representatives (SRC) and simplifying student decision-making. The study encompasses crucial criteria distilled from the questionnaire, with communication, creativity, commitment, and teamwork emerging as the four paramount factors. The method commonly uses a multiple-choice question (MCQ) to select which criteria are most relevant then rank the criteria by using the AHP method. This study involves the high committee of the 5 clubs in UPNM as an expert to compare 3 of the selected clubs as an alternative with 60% of the respondents were male, and 40% were females. The result shows that communication (0.52) is the highest criteria followed by teamwork, commitment and creative with 0.26, 0.14 and 0.08 weightage respectively. Hence, this also affects the alternatives with the highest is Debate Club followed by Peers Leader and MPP UPNM respectively.

Sustainability in the Public Healthcare Sector: Insights From an Analytical Hierarchy Process Analysis.

Background This study aimed to identify sustainability priorities within Oman's healthcare sector using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) methodology. Mainly, it focused on assessing the relative importance of economic, environmental, and social factors and their sub-elements in sustaining Oman's healthcare system. Methodology A semi-quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from 23 Omani healthcare experts with at least 10 years of experience in five different public hospitals in Oman. The AHP methodology was used to analyze pairwise comparisons of sustainability factors and derive their priorities. The consistency ratio was calculated to ensure the reliability of the analysis, and the transitivity rule was applied to address inconsistencies in pairwise comparisons. Results The findings revealed a strong emphasis on environmental and social sustainability, with economic considerations ranking comparatively lower. Circular practices emerged as a key priority within the environmental domain, while patient satisfaction stood out within the social domain. The analysis showed the integration between healthcare, environmental health, and societal well-being, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to sustainability. Conclusions This study contributes to the understanding of healthcare sustainability by providing empirical evidence of stakeholder preferences within Oman's healthcare system. By quantitatively assessing the relative importance of economic, environmental, and social factors, it informs decision-making and resource allocation toward sustainable healthcare development. The findings also support the argument for integrated approaches to healthcare sustainability that balance economic efficiency with environmental protection and social inclusion.