Performance Management Practices Research Articles

EXPRESS: Unlocking the Role of Language and National Culture: Effects on Supply Chain Operations in a Global Context

We investigate how language, an essential part of culture, affects manufacturing firms’ supply chain operations management practices, including the cash conversion cycle and its components. Based on the Sapir–Whorf hypothesis, which theorizes that a language’s structure may affect how its speakers think, prior studies have established that using the future tense to describe future events increases one’s mental distance from the future, reducing a person’s concern about it. Building upon this foundation, we hypothesize that firms in weak future-time reference countries are likely to be better prepared for future volatility in demand for their products and therefore carry higher inventory to avoid potential stockouts. We also hypothesize that firms in weak future-time reference countries are more apprehensive about long-term relationships with their customers and hence extend longer credit terms to them. Finally, we hypothesize that firms in weak future-time reference countries have longer operating and cash conversion cycles due to carrying higher levels of inventory and extending longer credit terms to customers. The empirical results using a large global sample of 193,625 firm-year observations from 45 countries support our hypotheses. In terms of economic significance, on average, the cash conversion cycle of firms in weak future-time reference countries is approximately 11 percent longer than that of firms in strong future-time reference countries. We also find that the effect of language is dominant over the influence of traditional cultural dimensions. Together, the results suggest that time encoding in the language of a firm is a determining factor in its supply chain operations.

How performance measurement systems enable or hinder organizational ambidexterity

PurposeThis study aims to examine how different uses of performance measurement systems (PMS) enable or hinder organizational ambidexterity (OA), intended as the simultaneous pursuit of exploitation and exploration.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a qualitative research design, we gathered data through semi-structured interviews, observations and reviews of documents at four departments of an automotive firm.FindingsWe contribute to operations management research and practice by demonstrating how PMS, which are typically associated with exploitation, can also foster exploration and enable organizations to become ambidextrous. Specifically, we show how PMS can be structured and used in more agile ways and, in relation to innovation, we identify which PM practices should be introduced and with what effects and those that should be avoided. We also contribute to organization theory by highlighting how a single management tool can promote the achievement of both exploration and exploitation.Practical implicationsIn investigating PMS uses and their effects, we identify several positive practices. For example, we show how managers can use PMS more effectively and how targets could be deployed to stimulate creativity and innovation. We also emphasize the need for managers to opt more often for team incentives rather than individual ones to encourage the collaboration needed for OA.Originality/valueWe provide in-depth insight into how PM tools affect an organization’s ability to pursue exploitation and exploration, thus contributing to research in operations, innovation and organization theory.

Evaluation of the Performance of Operations Management in the Industrial Sector at the National Gas and Industrialization Company (GASCO), headquartered in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

Operations play a major role in the LPG industry where the business involves suppliers, some of who are the business owners and customers. Organizations in the LPG industry are faced with challenges in their quest to deliver their products to consumers while concurrently ensuring profitability. Thus, they have to tailor their business operations practices to fit the market. This scientific research aims to see to what extent operations management practices are being undertaken in the National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquarter in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia by studying their supply chain and their process to determine how they impact on the operational performance of the factories. The target population in this study was the National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquarter in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia. Primary data on the project implementation was collected using a questionnaire. Secondary data was obtained from relevant publications and literature review from the different organizations. Data was presented using tables, and pie charts to make them reader friendly and this study conducted a multiple regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis was used to establish the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study found that there is a positive significant relationship between supply chain, lean management, value stream mapping, machine maintenance and operational performance. However, the study found a negative relationship between constraints and operational performance of an organization. The study recommends that factories should be urged to adopt all the practices under supply chain management, adoption of communication channels enhancement among all the staff working in various departments to improve value stream mapping. The study further, recommends that National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquartered in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia should have a skilled LPG manpower to handle issues on machine maintenance and replacement as this will lead to continued production.

Study of employee performance measurement, evaluation and management practices in tourism and catering companies in Szeklerland(with special reference to Harghita county)

As a resource, people are one of the most important factors in the modern economy. From a subjective measurement approach, it can form the basis of business performance measurement. In this research, I am looking for answers to the question: what does business practice show, and how consistent is it with theoretical findings? The results of the research show that companies operating in the hospitality sector in Harghita County are consistently aware of the fact that employee performance contributes greatly to company performance.  For this very reason, employee guidance, performance monitoring and feedback are considered significantly important. Employee performance is measured and evaluated informally, often on a monthly basis. The standardised, formal form of measurement, on the other hand, is only done annually, from time to time when necessary. However, its frequency increases significantly with the size of the company. Companies are moderately satisfied with the current employee performance measurement and evaluation. They are therefore aware that there is room for improvement. In their opinion, the introduction of a performance management system in the future would make a significant contribution to solving the problems discussed in the research. In doing so, it would also contribute to the improving of the company's business performance at the same time. Our development objective could be to provide guidance in this area for the future.

A STUDY ON SERVICE OPERATION MANAGEMENT AT ONSITEGO

Onsitego, a company specializing in providing comprehensive post-purchase services for consumer electronics and appliances, operates in a highly dynamic and competitive environment where efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction are paramount. At the heart of its operations lies the discipline of operations management, which encompasses the design, execution, and improvement of the processes that create and deliver the company's services. In this introduction to operations management at Onsitego, we will explore the key principles, strategies, and challenges that shape the company's approach to managing its operations effectively. From supply chain management to service delivery optimization, Onsitego's operations management practices play a crucial role in fulfilling its commitment to providing seamless, reliable, and value-added services to its customers. Let's delve into the intricacies of how Onsitego leverages operations management to drive operational excellence and maintain its competitive edge in the ever-evolving marketplace.

Performance Measurement and Management During the Roman Empire: Evidence From the Letters of Pliny the Younger to Emperor Trajan

This article examines performance measurement and management practices of the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Trajan (98–117 CE). The main thesis is that the administration of imperial provinces possessed some of the underlying concepts of modern public performance measurement and management practices developed more recently as part of the New Public Management movement. The article uses the 121 letters in the correspondence between Pliny the Younger as Imperial Governor ( Legatus Augusti) of the Province of Bithynia and Pontus (110–113 CE) in modern day Turkey and Emperor Trajan to demonstrate that performance measurement and management practices is more ancient than its development as part of the New Public Management movement.

Machine Learning-Based Causality Analysis of Human Resource Practices on Firm Performance

An organization’s human resource management practices are essential for its competitive advantage. This study specifically examined human resource (HR) practices that predict corporate performance (employee turnover and firm sales) based on a backpropagation neural network (BPN)-based causality analysis. This study aims to test how to optimize human resource practices to improve organizational performance. This study elucidated the effect of HR practices and organizational-level factors on predicting employee turnover and firm sales. The BPN-based causality analysis revealed the relative importance of explanatory variables on firm performance. To test the model, it employed the Human Capital Corporate Panel open data on Korean companies’ HR practices and other characteristics. The analysis identifies causal relationships between specific HR practices and firm performance. The results show that compensation-related HR practices are most influential in predicting firm sales and employee turnover. Moreover, training-related HR practices were modest, and talent acquisition and performance management practices had relatively weak effects on the two outcomes. The study provides insights into how human resource practices can be optimized to improve firm performance and enhance organizational effectiveness. The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of research on the use of machine learning in HR management and suggest practical implications for managers’ insights to optimize HR practices.

Digital Transformation in Operational Management: A Systematic Review of Current Trends and Practices

This research investigates the impact of digital transformation technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and big data, on operational decision making in the context of operational management. Through a comprehensive literature analysis, this research presents findings from studies that reveal the important role of digital technology in increasing operational efficiency, improving decision making, and facilitating innovation in various industrial sectors. The research findings highlight the importance of understanding the integration of digital technologies with existing operational management practices, as well as the ethical and organizational challenges associated with their use. In addition, this research identifies a number of potential research agendas to develop a deeper understanding of digital transformation in operational management and provide valuable guidance for organizations in facing the challenges and exploiting opportunities in this digital era.

STRATEGIC OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT IN FMCG: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF BEST PRACTICES AND INNOVATIONS

Strategic operations management (SOM) in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry plays a crucial role in driving efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. This paper presents a comprehensive review of best practices and innovations in SOM within the FMCG sector, aiming to provide insights into how companies can optimize their operations to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable growth. The review begins by examining the key challenges faced by FMCG companies, including demand volatility, short product life cycles, and complex supply chains. It then explores how strategic operations management practices can help address these challenges and improve overall performance. One of the key areas of focus in SOM for FMCG companies is inventory management. Best practices such as demand forecasting, lean inventory principles, and just-in-time (JIT) inventory systems are discussed, highlighting their importance in reducing stockouts, minimizing waste, and improving overall supply chain efficiency. Another critical aspect of SOM in the FMCG industry is production planning and scheduling. The review outlines how advanced planning tools, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and advanced analytics, can help FMCG companies optimize production processes, reduce lead times, and enhance flexibility to respond to changing market demands. Furthermore, the paper discusses the role of technology and innovation in enhancing SOM practices in the FMCG sector. It explores how technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming FMCG operations, enabling companies to achieve higher levels of efficiency, quality, and sustainability. The review also highlights the importance of collaboration and partnerships in SOM for FMCG companies. It discusses how strategic alliances with suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders can help FMCG companies optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of best practices and innovations in strategic operations management for FMCG companies. It emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to SOM, integrating people, processes, and technology to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable growth in the dynamic FMCG industry. This review paper systematically examines existing literature on operations management within the FMCG sector, highlighting effective strategies for coordinating operations, crew scheduling, and logistics to uphold professionalism and achieve peak performance. It aims to aggregate insights on process improvement opportunities, conflict management techniques, and cross-functional team dynamics that have led to world-class customer experiences and increased product sales. The review will also discuss the role of technology in maintaining operational records and facilitating continuous improvement in FMCG logistics and supply chain management.
 Keywords:  Innovations, Best Practices, SOM, FMCG, Comprehensive.

Improving Educational Performance through Effective Performance Management Systems

Examining the effectiveness of performance management systems in improving academic attainment in the UK is the goal of this research. Using a mixed-methods approach, we investigate the relationship between performance management techniques (such as goal-setting and feedback effectiveness) and academic and professional outcomes. Using regression analysis and theme analysis of qualitative data, we find considerable positive relationships between educational performance measures and performance management techniques. The findings emphasize the need to put in place robust performance management systems in order to promote a mindset of continuous improvement and accountability among educators. The study's conclusions might benefit lawmakers, administrators, and educators by enhancing performance management practices and implementing positive classroom reform. Further research is required to fully understand performance management's multiple elements and wide-ranging effects. All things considered, this study offers workable ways to raise student accomplishment and enhance educational outcomes, which advances the UK educational system further.

Frontiers in Operations: The Confidence Trap in Operations Management Practices: Anatomy of Man-Made Disasters

Problem definition: Reducing the likelihood of man-made disasters that cause harm to life, property, and the environment is a key societal goal. To that end, regulatory agencies are responsible for ensuring man-made disasters do not occur. In practice, to accomplish this task, regulators have to rely on and cooperate with operators. However, how much cooperation is optimal? In this study, we explore the prudent level of cooperation between operators and regulators to avoid man-made disasters and the role whistleblowers and other policy levers can play in maintaining it within a Goldilocks range. Methodology/results: We synthesize various theories and accounts of man-made disasters to construct a system dynamics model of the mechanisms that lead up to these unwanted outcomes. We employ simulations to uncover how changes in crucial parameters related to cooperation lead to different outcomes and influence the likelihood of the occurrence of man-made disasters. Managerial implications: We resist explanations for man-made disasters rooted in regulatory capture and offer instead a nuanced account rooted in excess cooperation between operators and regulators emerging as a result of everyday operational imperatives and constraints. Our findings indicate that absence of disasters leads operators and regulators to fall into a “confidence trap” that perpetuates limited regulatory oversight and excess cooperation and eventually leads to a disaster. To mitigate this tendency, we investigate, in particular, the role that timely whistleblowing and other policy levers can play in mitigating man-made disasters. We provide managerial and policy implications such as incentivizing and safeguarding whistleblowers, limits on the revolving door between operators and regulators, and more stringent operating and safety scientific standards. Overall, we offer a new frame and potentially fruitful frontier for the operations management community to explore. History: This paper has been accepted in the Manufacturing & Service Operations Management Frontiers in Operations Initiative. Supplemental Material: The online supplement is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2023.0034 .

Investigating the role of human resource management practices on employee performance through PLS-SEM approach: a case study of academic libraries in India

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the association between select human resource management practices and employee performance in academic libraries in India. Design/methodology/approach The current study uses the quantitative method of research. Partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse the results. The current study uses a cross-sectional approach by using a convenient sampling method. The sample size of the study was 163, which was adequate for conducting PLS-SEM analysis. Findings The study found a significant positive correlation between human resource management practices and employee performance in academic libraries. This suggests that the implementation of effective human resource management practices has a beneficial impact on various aspects of employee performance. Research limitations/implications The study’s cross-sectional design may limit the ability to establish causality or determine the direction of the relationship between human resource management practices and employee performance. The study may have limitations regarding the sample size and its representativeness. If the sample is small or limited to specific academic libraries in India, it may not be possible to generalise the findings to a broader population of academic libraries in the country or to libraries in other regions or countries. Practical implications The study has practical implications for academic libraries in India. By recognising the significant correlation between human resource management practices and employee performance, libraries can prioritise the implementation of effective human resource management strategies. This includes aligning human resources practices with organisational goals, focusing on employee development and engagement and adopting best practices in recruitment, training and performance management. Social implications This study can have broader social implications by promoting a supportive and productive work culture that positively impacts the academic library community. Originality/value The paper focuses on a quite important and largely unexplored area of human resource management within the academic libraries sector.

Surface movement detection and stability evaluation of a loose fine‐grained soil slope during reservoir operation: A case study in NE reservoir

AbstractLandslide in reservoirs imposes challenges to reservoir operation and dam safety management practices. The understanding of the landside mechanism during reservoir operation is crucial to landslide‐related risk migration. During the reservoir operation from 2018 to 2021, a massive landslide occurred with over 107 m3 in total volume on the bank of the NE reservoir. The surface movement characteristics before and after the occurrence of landslides in the NE reservoir in the region scale were detected and interpreted by Sentinel‐2 time series images. Experimental studies were conducted to investigate the geotechnical properties of the fine‐grained soil. The slope stability was evaluated for a typical slope profile considering the rising water level using the extended Bishop's simplified method, which was implemented in the code STAB‐UNSAT. It can be found that the landslide in the fine‐grained soil occurred simultaneously when the water level rose. The cumulative area of soil slope failure on the left bank of the NE reservoir increased continuously during the reservoir operation from 2018 to 2020, especially had a remarkable increment from August to October in 2019. The extended Bishop's simplified method provides a more rational method to evaluate the soil slope stability. The slope failure mechanism of the studied soil, that is, collapse–erosion–slide upon the rising reservoir water has been proposed.

The role of target difficulty and career tournaments in retaining creative R&D employees

AbstractWe explore the turnover intentions of creative R&D employees and the role of performance management practices in shaping these considerations. Since the success of a firm's R&D efforts hinges on the innovative ideas of its employees, it is crucial to retain particularly creative individuals. At the same time, however, we argue that this is especially difficult because both the higher outside options of creative employees and their specific individual characteristics make them, on average, more likely to leave their company. Most importantly, we suggest that two widely studied performance management design choices (target difficulty and career tournaments) typically used to motivate effort may influence the loss of creative talent. Using survey data from our unique access to R&D employees of a large manufacturing firm and a complementary experiment among business students, we find evidence that creative employees are, on average, more likely to leave their firm. Consistent with creative employees possessing a stronger learning orientation, we also predict and find that this tendency to leave is mitigated by target difficulty (as difficult targets speak to creative individuals’ learning orientation) and exacerbated by the intensity of career tournaments (as they reduce team cohesion and, ultimately, undermine learning opportunities).This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Longitudinal Effects of Employees’ Big Five Personality Traits on Internal Promotions Differentiated by Job Level in a Multinational Company

AbstractPromotions are central to individual career success. For organisations, it is crucial to identify and develop employees capable of higher-level responsibility. Previous research has shown that personality traits as inter-individual differences predict promotions. However, effects have mostly been examined on a broad factor level. This study investigated longitudinal effects of Big Five personality traits on both factor (neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, conscientiousness) and more detailed facet levels on promotions in employees of a multinational wholesale company (N = 1774, n = 343 promoted). We also explored how personality differentially impacts promotional likelihood as a matter of target job level (individual contributor vs. first- or senior-level manager roles). Overall, associations with promotions were detected for neuroticism (negative) and conscientiousness (positive). At the more nuanced facet level, all Big Five factors had at least one personality facet that was significantly related to promotions. Additionally, personality-promotion relationships were generally stronger for lower- rather than higher-level promotions. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that employee personality traits have a meaningful impact on who will be promoted and should hence be considered in organisational personnel selection, personnel development, and performance management practices.

Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence in domestic goat does in the United States: Prevalence, distribution, and associated risk factors

Infection with the bacterium Coxiella burnetii can cause coxiellosis in animals and Q fever in humans. Coxiellosis a consistently underreported infectious disease. The infection can result in reproductive consequences for humans and animals. Ruminants are a reservoir for infection and humans are generally infected via aerosolized secretions, making it a public health concern. Studies of ruminant seroprevalence are generally limited in size and scope. This study determined seroprevalence in a large-scale U.S. population of female goats using serum samples from 7736 does from 24 states.This study identified C. burnetii seroprevalence in the United States domestic goat population. Overall, 14.5 % (SE = 2.3) of does were seropositive and 21.0 % (SE = 2.4) of operations had at least 1 seropositive doe.Further, operation demographics and herd management practices associated with seropositivity were as follows: the suspected or confirmed presence of caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), caseous lymphadenitis (CL), Johne’s disease, or sore mouth in the herd in the previous 3 years, not cleaning or disinfecting the kidding areas or removing aborting does from other does, allowing visitors to access the kidding areas, and a lower percentage of adult goat inventory that were adult bucks or wethers. Furthermore, goat breed was associated with seropositivity.These data show C. burnetii seroprevalence in the United States and identify operation and animal characteristics and management practices associated with C. burnetii seropositivity. Together, this information can be used to help limit animal transmission, inform public health measures, and help educate and protect individuals working with goats.

Driving Supply Chain Resilience: Exploring the Potential of Operations Management and Industry 4.0

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian-Ukrainian war revealed vulnerabilities in supply chains, emphasizing the need for resilience in multiple industries. While Industry 4.0 is valuable, it cannot fully address complex supply chain challenges. Therefore, exploring additional drivers like Operations Management has become imperative. More clearly, the adoption of Operations Management tools and practices helps implement and use enabling technologies more effectively. In this context, the aim of the paper is to conduct a literature review to study supply chain resilience considering these two concepts. In other words, the objective of the work consists in examining the effectiveness of the mentioned combination. The paper presents a conceptual framework for enhancing supply chain resilience by exploring the potential of Industry 4.0 and Operations Management. The paper also underlines the positive impact issued from hybridizing both solutions to achieve resilience. As it discusses enhancing features of each concept aside the other. The paper provides a basic model for researchers to further detailed studies, and for managers to bringing the proposed framework from theory to practice.

A Critical Examination of Operational Management Practices at PT Calvary Abadi Mojokerto

The implementation of operational management in a corporation is of utmost importance. Irrespective of the diverse operational processes that are present inside the organization. There is a potential for the existence of conditions and restrictions. The objective of this study is to examine the application of operational management practices within local enterprises in Mojokerto City, specifically focusing on PT Nasional Industry Gasses Indonesia. The research findings indicate that PT Calvary Abadi has implemented many operational management strategies, one of which is quality management through the adoption of ISO standards as a mandatory operational requirement. The study's findings highlight the effective approach of PT Calvary Abadi in ensuring quality, planning, and collaboration within the organization through the implementation of operational management strategies such as ISO standard adoption, annual forecasting, and supply chain coordination. The organization maintains annual management forecasting phases and establishes a well-defined supply chain management structure that facilitates coordination between the company, its suppliers, and consumers. The ideal geographical plan for the company has been determined. This study utilizes qualitative data acquired through the implementation of HR/HSE interview procedures throughout several companies. The research did not employ any sample methodology and solely focused on PT Calvary Abadi as the subject of analysis for operational management.

Ethos and Work Ethics of Puger Kulon Village Fishermen from an Islamic Business Ethics Perspective

The implementation of operational management in a corporation is of utmost importance. Irrespective of the diverse operational processes that are present inside the organization. There is a potential for the existence of conditions and restrictions. The objective of this study is to examine the application of operational management practices within local enterprises in Mojokerto City, specifically focusing on PT Nasional Industry Gasses Indonesia. The research findings indicate that PT Calvary Abadi has implemented many operational management strategies, one of which is quality management through the adoption of ISO standards as a mandatory operational requirement. The study's findings highlight the effective approach of PT Calvary Abadi in ensuring quality, planning, and collaboration within the organization through the implementation of operational management strategies such as ISO standard adoption, annual forecasting, and supply chain coordination. The organization maintains annual management forecasting phases and establishes a well-defined supply chain management structure that facilitates coordination between the company, its suppliers, and consumers. The ideal geographical plan for the company has been determined. This study utilizes qualitative data acquired through the implementation of HR/HSE interview procedures throughout several companies. The research did not employ any sample methodology and solely focused on PT Calvary Abadi as the subject of analysis for operational management.

How are frontline managers supported in the performance management process?

Purpose Existing research has ignored the perspectives of frontline managers (FLMs) in relation to the support they receive. This study aims to understand the extent to which and how other organisational actors support FLMs in their implementation of performance.Design/methodology/approach This article used a qualitative method (57 semi-structured interviews) in two Singapore public sector organisations to understand the types of support provided to FLMs. The interviewees came from various levels and the hierarchical sampling frame allowed for comparisons to be made across the cases.Findings The authors found that the HR department, superiors and peers signalled to FLMs the custom and practice of performance management (PM) that led to the FLMs not prioritising their PM responsibilities. Notably, the focus of the FLMs was on meeting operational needs rather than the PM process.Originality/value The authors add to the literature by examining the how the support from other organisational actors signalled to FLMs the importance of PM within their work group. This paper also explores how FLMs seek support and the type of support they want in their role.