Traditional Management Practices Research Articles

OPTIMISATION OF STRATEGIES FOR WORKING WITH COUNTERPARTIES AND RISK MANAGEMENT AT UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE ENTERPRISES

The objective of this paper is to examine and enhance strategies for managing relationships with counterparties and mitigating risks in utility infrastructure enterprises. The paper seeks to analyse contemporary approaches and challenges faced by these enterprises, offering recommendations for improving their strategies in counterparty interactions and risk management. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance operational stability, competitiveness, and sustainable development in a dynamic business environment. Methodology. The research presents a critical review and analysis of the existing risk management and counterparty strategies employed by utility infrastructure enterprises. The methodology comprises an examination of current practices, the identification of key problems, and an evaluation of modern approaches, including digital transformation, process automation, and innovative management methods. By synthesising existing research and case studies, the paper identifies the strengths and weaknesses of various strategies and recommends improvements. Results. The analysis identified several key challenges faced by utilities in managing counterparties and risks, including inadequate risk management systems, outdated business processes and poor communication. Process automation, digital transformation and improved stakeholder integration are identified in the document as critical factors for optimising operations. It also emphasises the importance of careful selection of counterparties, performance monitoring and staff development to mitigate risks and foster better partnerships. Practical implications. The recommendations set forth in the paper provide actionable strategies for utility infrastructure enterprises to optimise their management of counterparties and risks. The implementation of these strategies, including the utilisation of digital tools, enhanced internal communication and a focus on staff development, can facilitate improvements in efficiency, risk management and long-term sustainability for utility companies. These recommendations are particularly beneficial for those in managerial or decision-making roles who are seeking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving business environment. Value / Originality. This paper makes a significant contribution to the field by offering a comprehensive analysis of the strategies available for optimising counterparty relations and risk management in the utility sector. The value of this approach lies in its integration of modern technological solutions with traditional risk management practices. By offering practical, research-based recommendations, the paper addresses current gaps in the literature and provides new insights into how utility enterprises can better manage both internal and external challenges.

Long-term changes in soil biological activity and other properties of raised beds in Longan orchards

Introduction The Longan fruit tree of the Vietnam Mekong Delta is grown in raised beds to improve water drainage during the rainy season and can live as long as 100 years. Objective This research explores the extent to which the soil microorganisms as well as soil physical and chemical properties of these raised beds degrade over a period of 60 years under traditional management practices. Materials and Methods Raised bed topsoil samples at depths of 0–20 cm were obtained from four different Longan orchards raised bed age groups: group 1) 15–25 years (L1–L5); group 2) 26–37 years (L6–L10); group 3) 38–45 years (L11–L15); and group 4) 46–60 years. Soil biological properties were tested for nitrogen-fixing bacteria, phosphorus solubilizing bacteria, potassium solubilizing bacteria, calcium solubilizing bacteria and silicate solubilizing bacteria, β-glucosidase, urease, phosphomonoesterase, and phytase. Soil samples were also tested for moisture content, soil texture, soil porosity, and bulk density as well as soil chemical properties including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), available nitrogen (NH4+, NO3−), available phosphorus (AP), exchangeable potassium (K+), exchangeable calcium (Ca2 +), available silicate (SiO2), available copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), boron (B) and manganese (Mn). Key findings: The results showed that soil moisture, soil porosity, sand content, SOM, TP, TK, available P, exchangeable Ca2 +, available Si, nitrogen fixing bacteria number, β-glucosidase, urease, phosphomonoesterase, and phytase gradually and significantly decreased in the raised bed soil as the Longan orchard increased in age. Pearson correlation analysis between the ages of Longan orchards and soil properties revealed that raised bed ages were positively correlated with soil bulk density, but negatively correlated with soil moisture content, soil porosity, SOM, TN, β-glucosidase, urease, phosphomonoesterase, and phytase. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed Longan yields had a positive correlation with available NO3− but negative correlation with NFB, exchangeable Ca2 +, pH, and available B. These findings reveal that traditional long-term management of Longan trees in raised beds significantly reduce soil organic matter, moisture content, porosity, and soil fertility with impacts on soil microbial numbers and activity within raised bed soils. Future Directions This suggests that more sustainable management practices, such as mulch and cover crops that decrease soil compaction and increase soil organic matter, improve soil porosity, total N, and feed soil microorganisms that are critical to nutrient cycling are needed to improve raised bed soil quality.

THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL FARMER MANAGEMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF PRIVATELY OWNED FORESTS: CASE STUDY IN CIAMIS REGENCY, WEST JAVA, INDONESIA

Privately owned forests (POF) play an important role in Indonesia’s social, economic, and environmental spheres. The success of optimizing their roles relies on the traditional management practices carried out by farmers. Therefore, this study aimed to explore POF traditional management by farmers, POF performance, and their influencing factors. Respondents included 170 farmers selected by simple random sampling and key informant. This study was conducted in three villages across Ciamis Regency, West Java, in 2022. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and field observations. The collected data was tabulated, graphic, categorized, and descriptively analyzed. The results showed that although the knowledge about POF management was constantly developing, not all farmers applied their knowledge. POF management practices were found to be closely related to marital status, farming experience, land area, distance from home, number of parcels, and income. Furthermore, traditional management practices were reflected in POF performance; the higher the management level, the better the performance, and vice versa. Equitability and efficiency were high across all locations; productivity was low, while sustainability was only high in Kalijaya Village. The different conditions of each element of POF, show that although POF might not be optimal in terms of economic contribution, its sustainability provides environmental benefits. This study has many limitations as it only looks at factors within POF farmers that influence POF management and performance. Further research into external factors that can influence POF performance and encourage an increased economic role for POFs can be explored in more depth

Remote work and human resource management: Challenges and solutions

The rise of remote work, accelerated by global disruptions and technological advancements, has fundamentally reshaped traditional human resource management (HRM) practices. This study investigates the key challenges that organizations face in managing a remote workforce, including maintaining employee engagement, ensuring effective communication, managing productivity, and addressing mental health concerns. Additionally, the research explores the role of technology in overcoming these challenges, highlighting solutions such as virtual collaboration tools, flexible work policies, and performance monitoring systems. Through an analysis of current HR practices in organizations that have successfully adapted to remote work, this paper identifies best practices and strategic adjustments necessary for HR managers to support a distributed workforce. The findings suggest that while remote work offers flexibility and operational efficiency, it also requires a shift in HR strategies toward building a cohesive virtual work culture, offering ongoing training, and ensuring employee well-being. This research contributes to the understanding of how HRM can evolve to meet the demands of the remote work environment, providing actionable insights for organizations navigating this new paradigm.

Talent Management in the Era of Digital Transformation: Challenges and Prospects

This article explores the intricate landscape of talent management in the context of digital transformation, highlighting the associated challenges and prospects that organizations face. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study employs a comprehensive literature review and library research to synthesize existing knowledge on the evolving role of talent management in a rapidly changing digital environment. The findings reveal that digital transformation significantly impacts recruitment, retention, and development strategies, necessitating a shift in traditional talent management practices. Organizations must adapt to technological advancements and changing workforce expectations, embracing new tools and methodologies to effectively engage and develop talent. Key challenges identified include the skills gap, resistance to change, and the need for continuous learning and development. Conversely, the prospects for enhancing employee engagement and fostering innovation through strategic talent management practices are promising. The study concludes that organizations must adopt a proactive and adaptive approach to talent management, ensuring alignment with digital transformation initiatives to achieve sustained competitive advantage. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on talent management by providing valuable insights into the interplay between digital transformation and effective talent strategies, offering practical recommendations for practitioners and scholars alike.

Opportunities for the use of artificial intelligence in supply chain management

Aim. To evaluate the potential of generative artificial intelligence technology in the context of supply chain management.Objectives. To analyze how artificial intelligence is changing traditional management practices and structures in supply chain management; to identify fundamental shifts brought about by AI, including automation, data-driven decision making, and human empowerment; to examine current statistics on the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in management processes and conclude the potential, promise of this technology in the logistics industry; to provide strategic insight and practicalMethods. The research combines qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a deeper understanding of the problems considered. Based on these methods, an array of relevant statistical data and expert opinions in the field of generative artificial intelligence has been studied.Results. In today’s business environment, supply chains face a number of challenges: globalization, market volatility, changing customer expectations, and force majeure (natural disasters, pandemics, or wars). To meet these challenges and strengthen their market position, companies are increasingly turning to new technologies and innovations. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the approach to supply chain management, increasing transparency, efficiency and responsiveness. All emerging technologies, from artificial intelligence and blockchain to the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics, potentially offer opportunities to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and enhance supply chain collaboration.Conclusions. In this article, the authors have shown how artificial intelligence is changing traditional governance structures in supply chain management. Current statistical data on the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in management processes are analyzed, and a conclusion is made about the potential and prospects of this technology in the logistics sphere. Strategic understanding is formed and practical recommendations for organizations seeking to implement new tools of generative artificial intelligence are given.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) Application For Classifying and Managing Tacit Knowledge in Revolutionizing AI-Driven Library

The rapid evolution of technology has transformed library systems, with Natural Language Processing (NLP) emerging as a pivotal tool for enhancing knowledge management. This study aims to examine how NLP can improve the classification and management of tacit knowledge within AI-driven libraries, addressing the challenge of handling large volumes of unstructured data. The objective is to explore how NLP can optimize the retrieval, organization, and access to tacit knowledge, thus enhancing decision-making processes in libraries. The research adopts a conceptual design, synthesizing existing literature and theoretical models, including Information Processing Theory and Constructivist Theory, to propose a framework that integrates NLP with traditional knowledge management practices. Methodologies include a thorough review of recent advancements in NLP technologies and their applications within knowledge management systems. The study’s findings demonstrate that NLP significantly improves the accuracy and efficiency of knowledge retrieval by automating the processing of natural language data. This allows better access to tacit knowledge, supporting more informed decision-making. The outcomes of the study are twofold: it enhances existing knowledge management frameworks theoretically, and it provides practical insights for libraries to leverage NLP for greater operational efficiency and improved user experience. The study also underscores the need for future research on the real-world application of NLP and its ethical implications, such as data privacy and algorithmic bias.

Critical Challenges, Cooperative Solutions

AbstractAgriculture in the United States faces significant challenges, including food insecurity, climate change, environmental degradation, and rural prosperity issues. The USDA Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) Network, which comprises 18 national sites, aims to address these challenges through sustainable intensification. Each site conducts a “Common Experiment” to compare traditional management practices with new alternative strategies. Upcoming special sections in the Journal of Environmental Quality will highlight the LTAR Network’s work and progress in implementing these experiments nationwide.

The Seeds of the Mexican Countryside

Objective: The objective of this work is to make an analysis of the types of seeds use by Mexican farmers and their relationship with Local Seed Systems (SLS) and Formal Seed Systems (SFS). Design/methodology/approach: The work consisted of a bibliographic review about the types of seeds available for the Mexican countryside and their seed systems. In addition, to identify some priorities and strategies for its strengthening. Results: In Mexico, derived from its climatic, edaphic, geophysical heterogeneity, cultural social and economic diversity. It has caused both landraces and improved seed to coexist in the SLS and SFS. However, there is a predominance in the use of landraces in SLS of 70 to 80 %. Therefore, it is considered a priority to conserve traditional selection, management, conservation and use practices that have caused the wide inter- and intraspecific diversity of landraces. However, more research needs to be carried out and its legal framework strengthened. In the case of improved seeds located mainly in SFS, it is considered to promote their use in vegetables and the ornamental sector. Limitations on study/implications: The work developed could be complemented with the participation and interviews of decision makers in seed policies in Mexico and the review of processed in other countries. Findings/conclusions: In Mexico the use of native and improved seeds coexists. To satisfy the demand for food, all types of seeds are important and both the SLS and the SFS but differentiated public policies are required for their attention and the definition of a specific legal framework for landraces.

Forest Management and Tree Species Diversity in a Temperate Forest of the Meseta Purhépecha, Michoacán

Objective: To evaluate how traditional forest management practices impact the diversity and structure of temperate forests in the Nuevo San Juan Parangaricutiro Indigenous Community (ICNSJP), with the goal of providing information on the sustainable management of these forests. Design/methodology/approach: Forest inventory data were collected and analyzed in stands treated with four thinning (A4) through the Silvicultural Development Method (SDM) and contrasted with stands that have not been intervened for more than 30 years (A0). Diversity indices and stand variables were used to statistically compare the effects of the treatments. Results: In total 20 species were recorded, 13 in A0 and 18 in A4. The true diversity (q1) recorded a value of 3.3±1.6 in A4 and 1.9±0.8 in A0, although this difference was not statistically significant. The species with highest importance value were Pinus douglasiana Martinez (30%) for A0 and P. pseudostrobus Lindl (27%) for A4. Limitations on study/implications: According to the SDM, the cutting cycle in A4 has not yet ended since the release and regeneration treatments are missing, therefore, monitoring is recommended to evaluate the effect of the SDM more comprehensively on diversity and structure in the forests of the ICNSJP. Findings/conclusions: Forest management in the ICNSJP has shown a positive effect in terms of species diversity and due to its commercial value, the development of P. pseudostrobus has been favored. In general, forest management has contributed to socioeconomic development by promoting species diversity, a key element for sustainable development.

Design and Development of an Intelligent Laboratory Management System Based on STM Processors

Abstract In response to the escalating inventory of laboratory equipment, the inadequacy of traditional manual management practices has become increasingly apparent. Current management challenges are underscored by historical data, which reveals a borrowing rate of approximately 30%, a concerning return rate of only about 5%, and an equipment loss rate of 10%. To address these inefficiencies, this paper introduces an advanced, intelligent laboratory equipment management system leveraging STM32 and GM65 technologies, designed to significantly enhance the return rate and minimize equipment loss. The system is meticulously engineered, featuring three integral modules: the scanning module, the core board module, and the communication module. The scanning module employs GM65 technology to rapidly scan and decode QR codes, facilitating the swift transmission of critical data to the core board for intelligent processing and interaction with the laboratory equipment. At the heart of the system, the core board module serves as the central processing unit, adeptly managing data from the scanning module. It intelligently discerns various information types and dynamically updates the TFT-LCD screen with the current status of equipment, ensuring that all users have access to real-time and accurate information regarding the borrowing and returning of equipment. The communication module is pivotal in bolstering the system's connectivity capabilities. Designed with a robust structure, the system is characterized by its simplicity of operation and robust practicality. It not only significantly improves the efficiency of laboratory equipment management but also plays a transformative role in modernizing laboratory management practices. By streamlining the management process and ensuring the optimal utilization of resources, this system provides a solid foundation for the sustainable advancement of laboratory operations.

Continuous Service Improvement in IT Operations through Predictive Analytics

In the evolving landscape of IT operations, continuous service improvement is essential for maintaining high performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Predictive analytics, leveraging advanced data analysis techniques and machine learning algorithms, offers a transformative approach to enhancing IT service management. This research paper explores the integration of predictive analytics into IT operations to drive continuous service improvement. It investigates how predictive models can forecast potential issues, optimize resource allocation, and enhance decision-making processes, ultimately leading to improved operational efficiency and service quality. The study begins with an overview of traditional IT service management practices and the limitations they face in adapting to dynamic and complex IT environments. Conventional approaches often rely on reactive problem-solving and periodic reviews, which can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for proactive intervention. Predictive analytics offers a paradigm shift by utilizing historical data and real-time information to predict future outcomes, enabling organizations to address potential problems before they impact operations.

Blockchain-Based Vendor Management in IT: Challenges and Solutions

The rapid evolution of the IT sector has led to increasingly complex vendor management systems, necessitating innovative solutions to handle the multifaceted challenges associated with these systems. Traditional vendor management practices often struggle with issues related to transparency, security, inefficiencies in communication, and trustworthiness among vendors. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized, immutable, and transparent characteristics, presents a compelling solution to these challenges. This research paper explores the application of blockchain technology in IT vendor management, focusing on its potential to address critical challenges and enhance the overall efficiency of vendor-related processes. The paper begins by outlining the inherent challenges in conventional vendor management systems, including difficulties in verifying vendor credentials, managing contracts, ensuring data security, and maintaining a reliable audit trail. These challenges often result in operational inefficiencies, increased costs, and potential risks related to vendor fraud or non-compliance. Blockchain technology, known for its secure, transparent, and decentralized nature, offers a transformative approach to these challenges. By providing a distributed ledger that records all transactions in a secure and immutable manner, blockchain can significantly enhance the transparency and security of vendor management processes. The paper examines how blockchain can be used to automate vendor verification, streamline contract management through smart contracts, and ensure data integrity across the vendor lifecycle.

Continuous Service Improvement in IT Operations through Predictive Analytics

In the evolving landscape of IT operations, continuous service improvement is essential for maintaining high performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Predictive analytics, leveraging advanced data analysis techniques and machine learning algorithms, offers a transformative approach to enhancing IT service management. This research paper explores the integration of predictive analytics into IT operations to drive continuous service improvement. It investigates how predictive models can forecast potential issues, optimize resource allocation, and enhance decision-making processes, ultimately leading to improved operational efficiency and service quality. The study begins with an overview of traditional IT service management practices and the limitations they face in adapting to dynamic and complex IT environments. Conventional approaches often rely on reactive problem-solving and periodic reviews, which can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for proactive intervention. Predictive analytics offers a paradigm shift by utilizing historical data and real-time information to predict future outcomes, enabling organizations to address potential problems before they impact operations.

Farmers’ traditional knowledge on seasonal frost management and their tree preferences in frost affected highlands of Amhara region, Ethiopia

Extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperature, frost, low humidity and desiccating winds, are the main causes for the failure of plantation forests in Ethiopia. Frost damage contributes to the low seedling survival and plantation success in frost affected highlands of Amhara region Ethiopia. Research outputs on farmers' traditional knowledge on frost management and technologies that curb frost related problems are limited in the country. This study was conducted to document the farmers’ traditional knowledge on frost management and their tree preference in frost affected highlands of Amhara region. Sinan, Guna-begemder and Meket districts were selected purposively in 2020. One representative sample Kebele was selected in each district with a total of 204 households selected with systematic random sampling technique for interview. In addition to interview focus group discussion was also conducted. Both descriptive and inferential statistics data analysis method were employed. In this study, frost was found to be an important limiting factor for plantation development in the study area. Frost occurs, mainly, from September to January. The local community applies traditional frost management techniques. The seasonality of frost occurrence and type of traditional frost management practices varied among the studied Kebeles. Eucalyptus globulus, Oldeania alpina, Rhamnus prinoides and Chamaecytisus palmensis were preferred trees species due to their frost resistant performance. The effectiveness of identified traditional frost management techniques needs to be investigated before they can be promoting and disseminating. Farmers should also be trained in proper techniques to protect planted seedlings from frost damage. Adjusting the timing of planting may also help to mitigate the effect of frost damage.

Predicting construction schedule performance with last planner system and machine learning

Construction project schedules deviate due to uncertainty and variability unless timely actions are implemented. While the limitations of traditional management practices help to facilitate such assessments have been widely covered, quantitative LPS research has shown empirical relations between its indicators, performance, and outcome. This paper creates a model to predict the schedule outcome during early execution using the LPS metrics and the Design Science approach. 18 solution artifacts were evaluated to predict three schedule outcome variables using 15 indicators in 1464 sample points collected from nine subsequent execution intervals from 164 projects. The selected artifact predicted the schedule outcome, which is a combination of the schedule performance at planned completion and the actual schedule deviation at completion, with a MAE of 1.24% and R2 = 0.96 averaged across the nine execution intervals, using solely LPS indicators. The model can be applied as an early warning mechanism in LPS IT-Support software.

Woody species’ carbon sequestration and soil seed bank conservation potentials of traditional rangeland management strategies in Western Guji, Southern Ethiopia

Rangelands are important for mitigating climate change and rehabilitating land by storing carbon from woody plants and seeds in the soil. However, there is a lack of empirical data on how traditional rangeland management practices (such as enclosure, communal grazing and prescribed fire) affect the carbon storage of woody species and the conservation potential of soil seed banks. This study evaluates the carbon sequestration and soil seed bank conservation potential of traditional rangeland management practices in the Western Guji zone, Ethiopia. A total of 32 sample plots were established using systematic random sampling, with 12 in each management practice, to measure woody biomass and estimate carbon stock using a nondestructive method. Additionally, 72 soil samples were collected for soil seed bank analysis, with 24 samples taken from each type of rangeland management practice. The study found that enclosures had the highest amount of carbon stocks 63.1 tons per hectare (t ha−1), with a corresponding carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) sequestration of 231.58 t ha-1, followed by communal grazing areas that stored 27.05 t ha−1 of carbon with a CO2e sequestration of 99.27 t ha−1. Prescribed fire had the lowest carbon stocks at 19.39 t ha−1, with a CO2e sequestration of 71.16 t ha−1. The study also found that different traditional rangeland management practices significantly influenced the diversity, richness, and density of woody species in soil seed banks. The highest Shannon diversity was recorded in enclosures (3.56 ± 0.09), followed by communal grazing (2.87 ± 0.14) and prescribed fire (1.27 ± 0.08). As a result, enclosure promotes the storage of carbon in woody plants and increases the diversity, density, and richness of woody species seeds in the soil, while prescribed fire reduces it. Therefore, it recommend for pastoralists to expand the use of enclosures as it improves the potential for conserving carbon stocks and soil seed banks of woody species.

Woodland expansion and upland management strategy dilemmas for biodiversity and carbon storage in the Cairngorms national park

Nature-based solutions are increasingly advocated to mitigate climate change and biodiversity loss, while improving ecosystem resilience and providing additional ecosystem services. In Scotland, woodland expansion and restoration of degraded peatlands are expected to play a major role in meeting net-zero emissions by 2045 and have prompted debates about the impact of increased woodland cover and prescribed fire on the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by upland landscapes. In alignment with national policy, the Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park, has committed to an ambitious programme of woodland expansion and peatland restoration in a landscape dominated by heather moorlands that is predominantly managed through prescribed burning for game management. Using the Native Woodland Model and the InVest modelling platform, we assessed the effects of five land cover and land use change scenarios, with different levels of prescribed fire regulation and woodland expansion, to evaluate their benefits and costs on biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Results show that changing the extent and management of habitats will result in different carbon sequestration pathways, as well as biodiversity winners and losers. The scenario presenting greater benefits for the conservation of biodiversity also has lower above-ground carbon sequestration potential and a larger negative impact on red grouse habitats, thus being less profitable to sporting estates. Hence, trade-offs will be necessary to achieve optimal carbon sequestration and biodiversity gains, with a potential role played by the continuation of prescribed fires and traditional moorland management practices as well as complementary grants and support measures based on biodiversity benefits rather than carbon sequestration. The results from this study could support discussions regarding future management of the uplands, trade-offs between loss of carbon in soils, carbon sequestration in woodlands and conservation of biodiversity, as well as stakeholders likely to be affected.

Gravel Mulching Significantly Improves Crop Yield and Water Productivity in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Northwest China: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis

In the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China, periodic rainfall deficits, high field evaporation, limited freshwater resources, and high irrigation costs restrict crop yield and water productivity (WP). Gravel mulching (GM), a traditional agricultural tillage management practice widely used in arid and semi-arid regions, improves crop yield and WP. However, the combined impacts of GM on crop yield and WP are unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of GM on crop yield and WP under different factors and to find the most critical regional factors and gravel characteristics that affect crop yield and WP. To quantitatively assess the impact of GM on crop yield and WP, this study performed a meta-analysis, a regression analysis, and a path analysis of 185 yield comparisons and 130 WP comparisons from 30 peer-reviewed scientific reports. This study found that GM significantly increased crop yield and WP by an average of 29.47% and 28.03%, respectively. GM was reported with the highest response percentages (I) of crop yield and WP in regions whose average annual precipitation (AAP) was 200–400 mm, average annual temperature (AAT) was 0–9 °C, and altitude (A) was >1000 m. Overall, AAP, AAT, and A had significant effects on the I of crop yield (p < 0.001), but AAT and A had an insignificant impact on the I of crop WP (p > 0.05). Gravel size (GS), the amount of gravel mulching (AGM), the degree of gravel mulching (DGM), and the gravel mulching thickness (GMT) had a significantly positive impact on crop yield and WP (p < 0.05). The stepwise multiple linear regression analysis results indicated that the primary regional factors influencing yield were AAT and A, contributing 43.14% and 53.09%, respectively. GMT and GS were identified as significant gravel characterization factors impacting yield, contributing 82.63% and 17.37%, respectively. AAP and GMT were the main regional factors and gravel characterization factors affecting WP. Furthermore, the I values for cash crop yield and WP were higher than that for food crops, and moderate fertilization and irrigation would increase the I values of yield and WP. The benefits of GM are strongly correlated with the planting year. This study’s results show that GM generally improves crop yield and WP, although the extent of this impact varies based on different conditions. These findings are not only useful in relation to their direct applicability to other countries worldwide but also due to their potential to provide new ideas for agricultural practices in similar crop-growing environments.

The feedforward interview: An innovative approach to performance appraisal

This paper describes a structured interview process intended to support managers in developing their employees. In response to the challenges with traditional feedback and performance management practices, the feedforward interview provides an alternative discussion format where the manager is focused on listening and understanding the employee, while guiding through a process to identify performance strengths. The benefits of this technique for interpersonal as well as organizational outcomes is explained.