Operational Philosophy Research Articles

Partnering Implementation in SMEs: The Role of Trust

Resource Dependence Theory suggests that (a) power balance with resource interdependency, (b) formal/informal procedures for resource exchange, and (c) matching in goals and operational philosophies positively affect partnering implementation (information exchange and joint decision-making). Additionally, improved partnering implementation positive affects commitment fulfillment and dispute resolution. In a setting where SMEs supply to small local retailers, the SMEs do not suffer from low bargaining power and rely on informal contracts, and both firms are compatible. The small trading partners in this study predominantly have face-to-face and telephonic interactions with each other (possible due to the small number). Knowledge of one another and a simple transaction process reduces risk and uncertainty, and leads to trust. In this study, trust is a contextual factor, and we aim to determine if there is a positive effect of (a), (b), and (c) on partnering implementation, and if the effect strengthens with an increase in the level of trust. Survey data are used to calibrate and validate a structural equation model independently. Through empirical research, we aim to identify deviations in results, determine the cause of deviation in the study characteristics, and add explanatory power to research findings. Except for the influence of trust on the positive relationship between informal procedures and partnering implementation, the finding fits with the theoretical bases. With a high level of trust, clarity in time, accuracy, and relevance of information exchanged may be lacking, compromising decision-making and adding to the ambiguity of partnering implementation with an informal agreement.

Urban Sharing Logistics Strategies against Epidemic Outbreaks: Its Feasibility and Sustainability

Epidemic (e.g., COVID-19) outbreaks can seriously disrupt logistics, and the coordination of intercity logistics and urban distribution plays an important role in goods distribution. In previous studies, some scholars analyzed different sharing logistics mechanisms for cost reduction and efficiency improvement, while others analyzed the disruption problems in both logistics and supply chain management. In this study, we combine these two operational management philosophies and first develop a two-echelon logistics benchmark model (BM), with two intercity logistics companies and two urban distribution companies, taking into consideration the load ratio and the disruption factor. This is the first time that the load ratio is considered in research on logistics, and it will make the supply and demand as well as the cost structure of logistics services much more practical. We then develop three urban sharing logistics models with two intercity logistics companies and one urban sharing logistics distribution company, with the sharing mechanisms SM1 (only sharing logistics), SM2 (sharing logistics with revenue sharing), and SM3 (sharing logistics with equity investment). We compare the pros and cons of the three sharing mechanisms and identify the optimal and suboptimal Pareto improvements for the BM. We identify different sharing decisions with respect to different load ratios and the disruption ratio. Finally, we analyze the sustainability of the three sharing mechanisms from the load ratio, low-carbon, and low-disruption dimensions. The managerial implications drawn from the model and case study provide a practice framework for sharing logistics operations: vertical integration, the standardization of logistics technology and equipment, and coordination and sharing.

Policing and politics of law enforcement in Nigeria’s fourth republic

ABSTRACT Historically, policing and law enforcement operations of the Nigeria Police Force have generally been characterised by covert and overt politicisation. Against this background, this article critically analysed the politicisation of policing and law enforcement in Nigeria’s fourth republic. It argues that the influence of politics on the enforcement of the law by the police agency manifests under different guises and circumstances at both the macro and micro levels. Police personnel are not only routinely being used by politicians and the ruling class to further their own personal political gains, the management and operational philosophy of the agency are also often a product of systematic politicisation and power struggles amongst groups. Consequently, the overall service delivery capacity of the Nigeria Police Force is being hampered by politicisation.

Development of prototype power supply for ohmic transformer system of SSST

The conceptual design of Small Scale Spherical Tokamak (SSST) has been completed at Institute for Plasma Research (IPR). It consists of poloidal field (or Equilibrium) field coils, Toroidal field coils and Ohmic Transformer (OT) system. The poloidal magnets are used for the plasma shaping and equilibrium. The plasma current ramp up and sustenance up to 20 ms is achieved by OT system. The OT system comprises of Central Solenoid (CS) and compensating coils TR1, TR2 & TR3. The Preliminary design for power supply for OT system has been finalized and a prototype OT power supply has been developed at IPR. The conceptual design of prototype Ohmic Transformer Power Supply (OTPS), its philosophy of operation, simulation results and experimental results are presented in this paper.

Is Beauty a Matter of Volume Distribution? Proposal of a New Aesthetic Three-Dimensional Guide in Orthognathic Surgery.

Orthognathic surgery is a multidisciplinary surgery in which the aesthetic results have become increasingly important, and consequently, also the predictability of the surgical outcomes. In this paper, we analyzed the volumetric distribution of the lower two-thirds of the face, in patients operated by orthognathic surgery and selected for their attractiveness. Our goal was to analyze the aesthetic volumetric distribution for gender and to propose our operating philosophy, that a normative distribution of facial volumes could be used like a new 3D aesthetic guide in orthognathic planning. A group of 46 orthognathic patients (26 females, 20 males) with the best postoperative aesthetic score was selected by a jury of plastic surgeons, orthodontists, and journalists. The mean soft tissue volumes of the malar, maxillary, mandibular, and chin regions were analyzed. Overall, we measured a mean female facial volume distribution of 38.7%, 29%, 27.6%, and 4.7%, respectively, in the malar, maxillary, mandibular, and chin regions, while in males, it was 37%, 26%, 30%, and 6%, respectively. In this paper, the expansion of facial volumes in orthognathic surgery is proposed as a key point for facial harmonization. Beauty could be scientifically interpreted as a balanced distribution of facial volumes, and the virtual study of this distribution can become an important part of the preoperative analysis, such as a "volumetric" 3D cephalometry, where the surgeon could use average values of aesthetic volumetric distribution as preoperative surgical references.

Research on the Investment Value of Bond Analysis based on Linear Regression Model

The research background of this paper is the linear regression analysis of bond market based on the study of econometrics. In order to achieve this goal, the author will conduct linear regression analysis through online bond fund data to determine the relationship between each data and ROE. The result of this study is the ratio of return on assets to individual data. The purpose of this study is to give consumers an advantage in choosing funds after analysis. To be able to know the relationship between the various data and then make a choice about the fund. Due to the quality differences of the bond funds, operation philosophy, team professional level and capital, the face of bond funds may encounter various risks in the process of investment. Investors should treat it seriously. Before investing risk, using various methods and means. The analysis of various risk investment can bring, finding the causes of risks, and then the principle of risk management and strategy. Use all kinds of skills and means to avoid risks, transfer risks, reduce risk losses, and strive to obtain the maximum profit.

Operating Models of Construction Businesses

The construction industry plays a critical role in Taiwan’s economy. In the past, the industry yielded high profits. However, due to excess supplies in the real estate market and economic recession, the construction industry must develop suitable operating models for sustainable operations. This study explored the sustainability of the operations and management of construction businesses and compared various types of construction companies in terms of the areas of work they undertake, such as land development, product planning and design, budgeting, construction outsourcing, quality control, and after-sales service. This study organized these areas of work and conducted objective comparisons to determine how the construction industry can achieve sustainable management. The researcher of this study was a practitioner in the construction industry. This research report can serve as references for fellow industry practitioners and encourage more experts in the construction industry to provide their operational philosophies as references for their peers.

Experimental and computational characterization of mass transfer in high turndown bioreactors.

Single-use bioreactors (SUBs, or disposable bioreactors) are extensively used for the clinical and commercial production of biologics. Despite widespread application, minimal results have been reported utilizing the turndown ratio; an operation mode where the working range of the bioreactor can be expanded to include low fluid volumes. In this work, a systematic investigation into free surface mass transfer and cell growth in high turndown single-use bioreactors is presented. This approach, which combines experimental mass transfer measurements with numerical simulation, deconvolutes the combined effects of headspace mixing and the free surface convective mass transfer on cell growth. Under optimized conditions, mass transfer across the interface alone may be sufficient to satisfy oxygen demands of the cell culture. Within the context of high turndown bioreactors, this finding provides a counterpoint to traditional sparge-based bioreactor operational philosophy. Multiple monoclonal antibody-producing cell lines grown using this high turndown approach showed similar viable cell densities to those cells expanded using a traditional cell bag rocker. Furthermore, cells taken directly from the turndown expansion and placed into production showed identical growth characteristics to traditionally expanded cultures. Taken together, these results suggest that the Xcellerex SUB can be run at a 5:1 working volume as a seed to itself, with no need for system modifications, potentially simplifying preculture operations.

Using Transport to Quantify the Impact of Vertical Integration on the Construction Supply Chain: A New Zealand Assessment

New Zealand (NZ) construction is highly fragmented, comprises primarily micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs); 32.5% of approximately 67,000 operating businesses are ‘small’ (up to 19 employees), while 65% are sole traders. The construction supply chain (CSC) is extensive, prone to inefficiencies at segmental boundaries accentuated by project-centric delivery. Conversely, it presents significant opportunity for consolidation and improved efficiency. Vertical integration and CSC management from the supplier-end rather than the project-end enable component elements to be individually independent in terms of ownership, while integrating their management above the tactical CSC level. This leads to improved operational philosophy and employment. Quantifying impacts, however, is a challenge due to lack of tangibility. This can be effectively overcome using quantifiable parameters associated with the CSC’s transport component. The paper investigates transport operations in a narrow NZ CSC segment over a three-month period to quantify improved performance using operational data and further potential for resource optimisation using operations research-based planning. Research outcomes point towards: (i) Fleet management strategy; (ii) Integrated planning and operational delivery; (iii) Non-price attributes in tendering/contracting; (iv) Change in the delivery model of manufactured construction products; (v) Information and communication technology-based solutions; and (vi) Integration of reverse logistics.

Evaluation of the overall effectiveness (OEE) of autonomous transportation system (AHS) equipment and its impact on mine design. Open pit mine case study

In recent years, the increasing demand for autonomous vehicles in the mining industry has led to a greater focus on integrating these solutions with mine design. As technology advances, mining companies are looking to maximize the benefits of automation in terms of efficiency, productivity, and safety. The adoption of autonomous vehicles in mine design allows for the optimization of planning and operation of mining activities. Autonomous equipment can work continuously, reducing downtime and improving resource utilization. This has a direct impact on the overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), as availability and performance are significantly enhanced.In this research, the overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) of an Autonomous Haulage System (AHS) and its impact on the design of an open-pit mine were evaluated at the engineering level in Chile. Additionally, a representative month of operation (January 2034) was modeled using discrete event simulation technique with current operation and AHS philosophies. The results of this model, which were validated and calibrated based on historical information, meetings with different work groups, and understanding of the engineering level of the study, indicate that the OEE of manual operation is 14.4% lower than that of AHS operation, demonstrating an opportunity for the implementation of this technology.

Resiliency Among Various Businesses in the Philippines in the Context of Post-Disaster Recovery Framework

This research highlights the aspects of resiliency among business establishments in the Visayas regions that were directly affected by super typhoon Yolanda in 2013. This study employs a descriptive method to characterize resiliency factors among various businesses. A survey questionnaire was utilized to gather relevant data from the 106 business proprietors and managers. Multivariate analysis via exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to determine the underlying factors. In the context of the post-disaster recovery of businesses in the Visayas regions, the exploratory analysis yielded five dimensions. Based on the finding, five causal factors are significant in developing a post-disaster resiliency and recovery framework among various business types. Any business is considered resilient against any form of disaster if it has complete control of its institutional affairs and plans ahead guided by its philosophy. Futuristic planning is also necessary as it imbibes in its operational philosophy the value of foresight. Besides, every business needs to strengthen its linkages outside its operations. Hence, a resilient business considers the value of information exchange and dissemination. Thus, a business is said to be sustainable if it maintains a sound and working framework to improve an adaptive capacity for any calamity or disaster.

Probabilistic optimal siting and sizing of distributed generation and shunt capacitors considering feeder flow control units using a novel distribution power flow

A modern energy system should be reliable, economically viable, and environment-friendly. This paper addresses the above issue by proposing a probabilistic approach of optimally placing and sizing distributed generation and shunt capacitors in a distribution network. Objectives are to simultaneously reduce the cost, emission, network loss, improve the system voltage profile, and avoid line overloads. A feeder flow control generator is considered so that the distribution network draws a constant amount of active and reactive power from the substation. The operation is modeled using a Zero-PQVδ bus pair in the power flow. A novel distribution system power flow is proposed to embody the operation philosophy. Uncertainties of renewable power sources and load demand are modeled using ‘Hong's 2m point estimate method’. A fuzzy multi-objective satisfaction criterion is used to realize multiple objectives. Simulation studies on a thirty-three node distribution network reveal the efficacy of the proposed method.

A Study on Concepts De-Laval Nozzle using CFD Tool

A device that is used to control the characteristics of fluid is known as a nozzle. Its primary function is to increase the fluid's rate of motion. A traditional De-Laval nozzle will have three distinct parts: a throat, a converging section, and a diverging part. This paper will attempt to detail the bulk of the nozzle concepts developed by De Laval. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the nozzle's operational philosophy. In addition, theoretical flow analysis is carried out at a number of locations along the length of the nozzle. The dynamic changes in flow parameters such as pressure, temperature, velocity, and density may be seen with the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The use of CFD is also employed in the simulation of shockwaves.

High flexibility in Francis turbine operation and design philosophy: A review

This paper examines and discusses how various operation schemes and design philosophies can prolong the expected lifetime of a hydro turbine subjected to many start-stop cycles and high ramping rates. With the proliferation of renewable and non-dispatchable energy sources in Europe, a higher demand for flexible operation is put on the rest of the system. Given the short response time of hydro power, there is a huge potential for the Norwegian power sector to act as a stabiliser for the rest of mainland Europe. With a more flexible operation however, the turbines will experience a higher load variation which can lead to premature fatigue and failure of existing turbines. This research reviews the current startup and ramping schemes, as well as design aspects, which might affect and reduce the mechanical stresses experienced by the hydro turbine.

ISO 13909 compliant contractual payment station coal sampling plant: process design and equipment selection for chemical, physical and moisture sampling

The paper discusses the process design and mass balance highlights to illustrate the ISO 13909 compliance of a 4-year-running contractual payment station sampling plant. The plant is used to sample -60mm coal supply to a coal fired power station infrastructure belonging to the South African National Power Utility. Payment parameters are proximate analysis (Calorific Value, Ash-, Sulphur content), physical (size and abrasion index) and moisture content. Over and above ergonomic physical samples and timeous moisture samples, the plant also delivers the crushed chemical sample in triplicate for buyer-, seller- and referee analysis. The lot period was defined as 24 hours production while the system compliance was designed around mass-based sampling. Production varies over a wide range of throughout tonnages from 800-3600 ton/h as dictated by complex boiler and silo operational requirements. The plant required a unique operational philosophy to adapt the number of primary increments (and corresponding time interval) per sublot size to the varying production rates which over a fix lot period results in varying lot size. Furthermore, a contractual grade, calibrated, 6-idler belt scale is used to measure the instantaneous conveyor load which in turn controls the cutter speed via a programmable logic controller (PLC) prompted variable speed drive (VSD) setpoint to sample fixed increment mass to represent fixed production mass interval. The primary belt end crosscut sampler boasts a unique articulated joint design sample chute to fit down the high sample tract; eliminating the delineation errors associated with the previous competitor design.

An MILP formulation for the optimum operation of AC microgrids with hierarchical control

An accurate linear model for the optimal operation of the microgrid is a key enabling solution for many real time and stochastic applications. Nonetheless, many of the existing microgrid’s optimal power flow models fall short in considering the details of the microgrid hierarchical control, which can lead to infeasible and suboptimal solutions. In this work, a new mixed integer linear programing (MILP) model for the optimal operation of three phase microgrids with hierarchical control is proposed. First, the nonlinear formulation is derived to account for the microgrid philosophy of operation in both grid connected and islanding modes of operation. Subsequently, a linearization approach is adopted to the derived nonlinear model to transform it into the required MILP formulation. The effectiveness of the proposed model is validated through several case studies considering balanced and unbalanced test systems. Additionally, a detailed error assessment is conducted to justify the proposed model.

Lean Six Sigma for the improvement of company processes: the Schnell S.p.A. case study

PurposeThe aim of this study is to develop an in-depth case study on the implementation on Lean six sigma (LSS) in Schnell S.p.A., Italian company leader of an important multinational industrial group, highlighting the benefits that can be achieved from a careful application of this method, the main challenges and organizational learning from its implementation.Design/methodology/approachThe study has been developed with a qualitative approach, creating a single in-depth case study, with the participant observation of researchers in the project which lasted 4 months. Periodic weekly meetings were done with the working group to exchange feedback on the development of the project to share opinions and data.FindingsA project has been developed to stabilize the procurement process of a pull-type production cell, which experienced delays in supply lead times. The causes of the problems in their process of managing the supply of the production cell were found and some inefficiencies in the internal process of fulfillment of supply orders have been intercepted, the optimization of which has allowed the generation of an automatic system for sending supply orders, coming directly from the production line.Originality/valueThis study described the path and dynamics of the transformation process that business organizations undertake for optimizing their profitability and competitive advantage, placing emphasis on an innovative methodology for conducting business process improvement projects, which constitutes its operating philosophy on the effective and efficient use of company resources and skills, to guarantee to the company the achievement of a lasting and defensible competitive advantage over time.

Best Practices for Community Policing and Crime Prevention in Nigeria

Community engagement lies at the core of policing. Therefore, through collaborative efforts, community and police members address crime and disorder using approaches determined to be best practices for their communities. Today, community policing involves a new philosophy of police operations and management; hosting an accountability system involving the entire organisation. Nevertheless, to be effective in preventing crime, Nigerian police must place renewed emphasis on community engagement and practices. Based on this premise, this paper examines the best practices for community policing and crime prevention in Nigeria. The paper began with an introduction which x-rayed community policing as evolving to meet the new expectations that emerge in the 21st Century. The paper further looked into the philosophical principles of community policing, crime prevention, community policing best practices for Nigeria, organisational changes for implementing community policing best practices for Nigeria, and the expected benefits of community policing to Nigerians. The paper concluded that while the ways of implementing community policing may differ in practice in accordance with certain conditions in the communities, it is imperative to know that the basic philosophical principles of community policing should always be adhered to, if the best practices for community policing is to be achieved in Nigeria.

Problem Formulations, Solving Strategies, Implementation Methods & Applications of Selective Harmonic Elimination for Multilevel Converters

Multilevel converters are commonly recommended for converting DC power to AC as per load requirements owing to several advantages such as common mode voltage, less distorted input current, low switching frequency and reduced THD. However, the reliability, performance and efficiency of MLIs depend in particular on the switching technique used. The Selective Harmonic Elimination PWM approach is more efficient among existing modulation techniques to remove undesired harmonics from the output of MLI, since it operates at low switching frequency, particularly at fundamental frequency. The fundamental switching frequency operation of SHEPWM reduce the switching losses and improves inverter efficiency. The principal problem, however, is the empirical approach to non-linear equations. Numerous algorithms have been developed and implemented over the last decades including computational approaches, analytical methods, algebraic methods and optimization algorithms to solve the SHE equations and to eliminate the unintended harmonics. This article presented various aspects of SHE problem formulations, the comprehensive philosophy of operation of various SHE problem-solving approaches and the application of multilevel inverters. PWM waveforms, with single and multiple transitions, are examined and shown at each voltage level for solution frameworks that suit multiple solutions for pulse width modulation to allow researchers gain a deeper understanding and solution of SHE problems.

Improving the Internal Relations Versus Shaping the External Relations of the Enterprise

Purpose: The aim of the paper is to identify the importance of actions for enhancing internal relations in a company, with the aim to improve company’s relations with its environment. Design/Methodology/Approach: The studies conducted in 2018-2020 focused on the importance of relational competencies in the creation of company value and on the role of leadership. The first study concentrated on managers (N=10). The second study focused on the employees of the analysed companies (N=185). The obtained information was used to perform a structural analysis, based on structural indicators expressed as percentage values. Findings: The findings indicate that assessments of the importance of actions for enhancing internal relations in a company to improve company’s relations with its environment vary. The managers of the surveyed enterprises perceive it differently than the employees. In addition, cluster analysis showed that the managers and employees are not unanimous in their assessments of the actions. Practical Implications: The results of the analysis indicate that both the management and employees recognise the importance of taking actions for enhancing internal relations in a company in order to improve company’s relations with its environment. This analysis may identify the directions for building internal relations to improve company’s relations with its environment. Originality/Value: Business strategy making with regard to creation and enhancement of relational competencies and relational capital, both internally and externally, is becoming a key trend in the development of operational philosophy in business. Focusing on internal relations translates into formation of external relations. Development of relational capital essentially affects the growth of an enterprise and its competitive advantage.