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  • About
  • The Global ETD Search service is a free service for researchers to find electronic theses and dissertations. This service is provided by the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations.
    Our metadata is collected from universities around the world. If you manage a university/consortium/country archive and want to be added, details can be found on the NDLTD website.
671

Institutional Voids, Economic Adversity, and Inter-firm Cooperation in an Emerging Market: The Mediating Role of Government R&D Support

Adomako, Samuel, Amankwah-Amoah, J., Debrah, Y., Khan, Z., Robinson, C., Chu, Irene 03 October 2020 (has links)
Yes / This article examines the mediating mechanism of the relationship between institutional voids (IVs) and inter-firm cooperation and the moderating role of economic adversity in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in emerging markets. The hypotheses are tested using time-lagged survey data from 214 SMEs from Ghana. The findings provide support for the hypotheses by showing that (1) IVs positively influence the use of government research and development (R&D) support, (2) the use of government R&D support mediates the relationship between IVs and inter-firm cooperation, and (3) economic adversity positively moderates the relationship between IVs and the use of government R&D support. The findings contribute to understanding the role of IVs in inter-firm cooperation. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
672

The role of small manufacturing enterprises in sustainable regional development / Die Rolle der Kleinbetriebe des produzierenden Gewerbes in der nachhaltigen Regionalentwicklung am Beispiel des Governorates von Ismailia als Fallstudie in Ägypten / Ismailia governorate as a case study in Egypt

Hefnawy, Abdulla Abdel Shafy Mansour 19 December 2006 (has links) (PDF)
During the last ten years the small manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) sector has become firmly established at the top of the development agenda for many countries, hence, marking this sector's increasingly acknowledged economic importance. Evidence from various parts of the world has shown clear signs of the growth of SMEs. Despite this, little attention has been given to understanding the environmental impacts these enterprises produce or to defining the role these entities play in terms of sustainable regional development. This thesis sets out to contribute to a better understanding of the influence of SMEs on sustainable regional development, as well as the contribution of SMEs to the economy in terms of job creation in the context of developing countries using Egypt and its Ismailia region as the basis for case study. Three main hypotheses were formulated relevant to the role of SMEs in sustainable regional development. In general, these hypotheses relate to the following: 1) The contribution of SMEs to the regional economy; 2) Problems and barriers SMEs face in achieving sustainable development; and 3) The potential for SMEs to utilize available existing resources to enhance their role in achieving sustainable regional development. In order to test these three hypotheses and to answer related questions, an analysis was undertaken within the framework of two spatial tiers: national and regional, that is Egypt and Ismailia, respectively. Two types of data were used - primary and secondary. A sample of 101 entrepreneurs and 100 workers were interviewed from the Ismailia region. The results of these interviews were analyzed in the empirical portions of this thesis. Chapter one pertains to the justification of the thesis; its objectives; the development of related research questions and hypotheses; the methodology used for data analysis; data sources used; questionnaire design; survey methods; and problems of data collection. Chapter two discusses the concept of SMEs worldwide and in Egypt as a basis from which to provide a concrete definition of SMEs that is used in the empirical portion of this study. In addition, the potential of SMEs and the problems facing SMEs in terms of sustainable regional development, the differences between SMEs and larger enterprises, as well as the importance of SMEs for the Egyptian economy are discussed in this chapter. The relationship between SMEs and sustainable urban and regional development is highlighted in more detail in chapter three. This relationship is discussed within the context of the notions of the overall concept of sustainable development, the sustainable regional development agenda in Egypt and related regulations, and the positive characteristics SMEs need in order to bring sustainable urban and regional development to fruition. Chapter four examines the first hypothesis of this study; this hypothesis states that, in general, SMEs have a positive effect on the economic and social development of a region. This chapter evaluates the ability of SMEs to drive the regional and national chains of economic added value; the capability of SMEs to create job opportunities at the regional level; and the effects of SMEs in terms of improved life-style and standard of living of workers and their families. Chapter five tests the second hypothesis in this thesis which states that the affects of a variety of types and sizes of SMEs on regional sustainable development is limited, at least for the time being. This chapter provides an analysis of economic, social and environmental obstacles and constraints that SMEs must face on a daily basis to achieve sustainable development in the region. In chapter six the potential by which SMEs can utilize their assets to enhance their contribution to sustainable regional development is evaluated; the potential opportunities available to SMEs to make better use of local raw materials and to drive the chain of economic activity within the Ismailia region were examined. The ability of SMEs to work more efficiently through the use of clusters and networks as a potential strategy is clarified. Chapter Seven presents a compilation of the detailed findings of this thesis along with the lessons that have emerged as a result of the research conducted. A series of policies and recommendations are provided as a means from which to create favourable conditions to encourage SMEs to play a more significant role in the national economy and in subsequent sustainable regional development. From a national perspective, the activities of SMEs are not usually the most serious source of environmental degradation, but, collectively, their sheer numbers may translate into substantial impacts on the eco-system. While the individual SME has financial problems related to the treatment and disposal of its waste, the adoption of an industrial cluster strategy for SMEs can provide an efficient solution to this problem. A cluster should consist of several single enterprises located in close proximity to one another, thereby, improving the ease of and costs associated with the treatment and disposal of environmental wastes. This study advocates the necessity of raising the degree of environmental awareness for organizations, syndicates, unions and societies related to SMEs, as well as entrepreneurs and labourers in their respective domains. Opportunities for raising environmental awareness can be implemented through a series of organized seminars, meetings and workshops designed to motivate individuals and small businesses within the society of SMEs to incorporate an ecological sense and approach into their daily behaviour and practices. A national policy must be adopted in Egypt in order for the SMEs sector to be successful in its contribution to sustainable development. Such policy must be all-inclusive and provide for the technical support of SMEs, financial support to SMEs, environmental support to SMEs, as well as provide overarching legislative support relevant to this particular sector of the business environment.
673

The role of small manufacturing enterprises in sustainable regional development: Ismailia governorate as a case study in Egypt

Hefnawy, Abdulla Abdel Shafy Mansour 13 December 2006 (has links)
During the last ten years the small manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) sector has become firmly established at the top of the development agenda for many countries, hence, marking this sector's increasingly acknowledged economic importance. Evidence from various parts of the world has shown clear signs of the growth of SMEs. Despite this, little attention has been given to understanding the environmental impacts these enterprises produce or to defining the role these entities play in terms of sustainable regional development. This thesis sets out to contribute to a better understanding of the influence of SMEs on sustainable regional development, as well as the contribution of SMEs to the economy in terms of job creation in the context of developing countries using Egypt and its Ismailia region as the basis for case study. Three main hypotheses were formulated relevant to the role of SMEs in sustainable regional development. In general, these hypotheses relate to the following: 1) The contribution of SMEs to the regional economy; 2) Problems and barriers SMEs face in achieving sustainable development; and 3) The potential for SMEs to utilize available existing resources to enhance their role in achieving sustainable regional development. In order to test these three hypotheses and to answer related questions, an analysis was undertaken within the framework of two spatial tiers: national and regional, that is Egypt and Ismailia, respectively. Two types of data were used - primary and secondary. A sample of 101 entrepreneurs and 100 workers were interviewed from the Ismailia region. The results of these interviews were analyzed in the empirical portions of this thesis. Chapter one pertains to the justification of the thesis; its objectives; the development of related research questions and hypotheses; the methodology used for data analysis; data sources used; questionnaire design; survey methods; and problems of data collection. Chapter two discusses the concept of SMEs worldwide and in Egypt as a basis from which to provide a concrete definition of SMEs that is used in the empirical portion of this study. In addition, the potential of SMEs and the problems facing SMEs in terms of sustainable regional development, the differences between SMEs and larger enterprises, as well as the importance of SMEs for the Egyptian economy are discussed in this chapter. The relationship between SMEs and sustainable urban and regional development is highlighted in more detail in chapter three. This relationship is discussed within the context of the notions of the overall concept of sustainable development, the sustainable regional development agenda in Egypt and related regulations, and the positive characteristics SMEs need in order to bring sustainable urban and regional development to fruition. Chapter four examines the first hypothesis of this study; this hypothesis states that, in general, SMEs have a positive effect on the economic and social development of a region. This chapter evaluates the ability of SMEs to drive the regional and national chains of economic added value; the capability of SMEs to create job opportunities at the regional level; and the effects of SMEs in terms of improved life-style and standard of living of workers and their families. Chapter five tests the second hypothesis in this thesis which states that the affects of a variety of types and sizes of SMEs on regional sustainable development is limited, at least for the time being. This chapter provides an analysis of economic, social and environmental obstacles and constraints that SMEs must face on a daily basis to achieve sustainable development in the region. In chapter six the potential by which SMEs can utilize their assets to enhance their contribution to sustainable regional development is evaluated; the potential opportunities available to SMEs to make better use of local raw materials and to drive the chain of economic activity within the Ismailia region were examined. The ability of SMEs to work more efficiently through the use of clusters and networks as a potential strategy is clarified. Chapter Seven presents a compilation of the detailed findings of this thesis along with the lessons that have emerged as a result of the research conducted. A series of policies and recommendations are provided as a means from which to create favourable conditions to encourage SMEs to play a more significant role in the national economy and in subsequent sustainable regional development. From a national perspective, the activities of SMEs are not usually the most serious source of environmental degradation, but, collectively, their sheer numbers may translate into substantial impacts on the eco-system. While the individual SME has financial problems related to the treatment and disposal of its waste, the adoption of an industrial cluster strategy for SMEs can provide an efficient solution to this problem. A cluster should consist of several single enterprises located in close proximity to one another, thereby, improving the ease of and costs associated with the treatment and disposal of environmental wastes. This study advocates the necessity of raising the degree of environmental awareness for organizations, syndicates, unions and societies related to SMEs, as well as entrepreneurs and labourers in their respective domains. Opportunities for raising environmental awareness can be implemented through a series of organized seminars, meetings and workshops designed to motivate individuals and small businesses within the society of SMEs to incorporate an ecological sense and approach into their daily behaviour and practices. A national policy must be adopted in Egypt in order for the SMEs sector to be successful in its contribution to sustainable development. Such policy must be all-inclusive and provide for the technical support of SMEs, financial support to SMEs, environmental support to SMEs, as well as provide overarching legislative support relevant to this particular sector of the business environment.
674

Determinants and impediments in the internationalisation process of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in Ethiopia

Yehualashet Demeke Lakew 06 1900 (has links)
The purpose of this study was to investigate internationalisation of Ethiopian SMEs by examining internal and external factors that motivate or restrict internationalization process and the impact of internal and external barriers on SMEs export performance. The small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) sector in Ethiopia is a significant group within the economy in terms of firm numbers and total employment. However, the SMEs sector’s share of exports is disproportionately small, which raised considerable research concerns. Firm export propensity and export performance were the dependent variables and export stimuli and barrier factors were used as explanatory variables. The study was conducted through mixed research design. A questionnaire was administered to 90(36 exporting and 54 nonexporting) SMEs in Leather and Leather Products Industry in Addis Ababa selected through stratified random sampling. In order to complement survey results nine (4 exporting and 5 non-exporting) SMEs were selected through critical case purposive sampling and an in-depth interviews were conducted. Statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS 20) was used to analyse the quantitative data whereas, qualitative data were analysed manually. Analytical techniques used were, Chisquare test of independence, Spearman rank order correlation, factor analysis, binary logistic regression analysis and multiple regression analysis. The statistical results of binary logistic regression analysis and chi-square tests indicated that managerial factors, internal marketing factors and foreign government related factors, firm ownership and size are the most significant motivators of SMEs internationalisation in Ethiopia. On the contrary the result showed that, logistics problem, insufficient finance, functional barriers, lack of export knowledge and information, procedural barriers and international trade barriers are the factors hindering it. Further analysis was conducted to examine the impact of export barriers on performance of firms. The result of multiple regression analysis indicated that, export barriers significantly and negatively affect export performance. The overall results revealed that explanatory variables used in the analysis significantly predict the dependent variable at 95% confidence level. Considering these results numerous implications for theory, practice, and future research were recommended. Finally, the study concluded that internationalisation of SMEs has to be encouraged by mitigating both internal and external barriers identified in this study. / Business Management / D. Admin. (Business Management)
675

Harmonisering av redovisningen för SME : Är regelverken princip eller regelbaserade? / Harmonization of the financial reporting for SME - Is the framework principlebased or ruledbased?

Thai Thelin, Jenny, Florin Vadman, Ebba January 2016 (has links)
En önskan om en enad internationell uppsättning av redovisningsstandarder har uppkommit på senare tid på grund av globaliseringen. FASB har i ett försök att närma sig IASB regelverk implementerat mer principer i US GAAP medan IASB har implementerat fler regler i IFRS. Trenden pekar mot harmoniseringen för att lyckas med en enad internationell uppsättning redovisningsstandarder. Globaliseringen påverkar inte enbart börsnoterade företag utan även små och medelstora företag (SME). Arbetet för harmonisering av små och medelstora företags (SME) regelverk har dock inte berörts i lika stor grad. Studiens syfte är att undersöka till vilken grad regelverken IFRS for SME, FRS 102 och FRF for SME är princip- eller regelbaserade gentemot varandra samt att utreda till vilken grad dessa är harmoniserade med varandra.För att uppfylla syftet har en kvalitativ studie utförs med hjälp av en innehållsanalys. Kvalitativ data används i uppbyggnad av den teoretiska referensramen med skriftliga källor i form av vetenskapliga artiklar. Empirin består av delar ur lagtexter av regelverken IFRS for SME, FRS 102 och FRF for SME som analyseras med utgångspunkt i den teoretiska referensramen.Det vi kom fram till var att IFRS for SME och FRS 102 är principbaserade regelverk medan FRF for SME är ett regelbaserat regelverk. När de sedan ställdes emot varandra betraktas FRS 102 precis som IFRS for SME som ett principbaserat regelverk men till en större grad. IFRS for SME och FRS 102 bedöms således som harmoniserade. FRF for SME anser vi å andra sidan vara ett regelbaserat regelverk och när det ställs emot IFRS for SME och FRS 102 anses det därmed svagt regelbaserade. Vi kan följaktligen inte betrakta FRS for SME som harmoniserade med varken IFRS for SME eller FRS 102.Vår studie bidrar därmed till litteratur om harmoniseringen av SME företag samt till IFRS for SME, FRS 102 och FRF for SME är huvudsakligen princip- eller regelbaserad. Dessutom görs en reflektion över om den enda aspekten med redovisningen är jämförbarhet då är det optimala läget för harmonisering när regelverken är stark regelbaserade. / AbstractA desire for a united international set of accounting standards has arisen in recent times due to globalization. FASB has in an attempt to approach the IASB regulations implemented more principles in US GAAP, while the IASB has implemented more rules in IFRS. The trend is pointing towards harmonization to succeed in the desire for an united international set of accounting standards. Globalisation does not only affect listed companies but also small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Harmonisation of these small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) framework have not been written about to the same degree as the listed companies. The study aims to examine to which extent regulations IFRS for SME, FRS 102 and FRF for SME's are principle or rule-based to one another. The second purpose of the study is to investigate the degree to which these are harmonized with each other.A qualitative study with a content analyse have been conducted to fulfill the purpose of the study. Qualitative data is used in the construction of the theoretical framework in form of written sources such as scientific articles. The empirical data is also of qualitative character and consists of parts of the legal texts of the regulations IFRS for SME, FRS 102 and FRF for SMEs. The empirical data is analyzed on the basis of the theoretical framework.The conclusion was that IFRS for SME and FRS 102 are principle-based frameworks while FRF for SMEs is a rules-based framework. When they were facing each other FRS 102 was considered as a principle-based regulations but to a greater degree then IFRS for SME. IFRS for SME and FRS 102 is consequently considered harmonized. FRF for SMEs on the other hand is a rules-based framework and when it is set against the IFRS for SME and FRS 102 it is considered weak rule-based. We cannot therefore regard FRS for SMEs harmonized with either IFRS for SMEs or FRS 102.Our study contributes to the literature on the harmonization of SME companies, and whether the IFRS for SME, FRS 102 and FRF for SMEs are mainly principle- or rulebased. In addition, a reflection on if the only aspect of the financial report is comparability then optimal framework for harmonization are one that is strong rulebased.
676

應用資料採礦技術建置中小企業傳統產業之信用評等系統 / Applications of data mining techniques in establishing credit scoring system for the traditional industry of the SMEs

羅浩禎, Luo, Hao-Chen Unknown Date (has links)
中小企業是台灣經濟貿易發展的命脈,過去以中小企業為主的出口貿易經濟體系,是創造台灣經濟奇蹟的主要動力。隨著2006年底新巴賽爾協定的正式實施,金融機構為符合新協定規範,亦需將中小企業信用評分程序,納入其徵、授信管理系統,以求信用風險評估皆可量化處理。故本研究將資料採礦技術應用於建置中小企業違約風險模型,針對內部評等法中的企業型暴險,根據新協定與金管會的準則,不僅以財務變數為主,也廣泛增加如企業基本特性及總體經濟因子等非財務變數,納入模型作為考慮變數,計算違約機率進而建置一信用評等系統,作為金融機構對於未來新授信戶之風險管理的參考依據。而本研究將以中小企業中製造傳統產業公司為主要的研究對象,建構企業違約風險模型及其信用評等系統,資料的觀察期間為2003至2005年。 本研究分別利用羅吉斯迴歸、類神經網路、和C&R Tree三種方法建立模型並加以評估比較其預測能力。研究結果發現,經評估確立以1:1精細抽樣比例下,使用羅吉斯迴歸技術建模的效果最佳,共選出六個變數作為企業違約機率模型之建模變數。經驗證後,此模型即使應用到不同期間或其他實際資料,仍具有一定的穩定性與預測效力,且符合新巴塞資本協定與金管會的各項規範,表示本研究之信用評等模型,確實能夠在銀行授信流程實務中加以應用。 / To track the development of Taiwan’s economy history, one very important factor that should never be ignored is the role of small enterprise businesses (the SMEs) which has always been played as a main driving force in the growth of Taiwan’s export trade economic system. With the formal implementation of Basel II in the end of 2006, there arises the need in the banking institutions to establish a credit scoring process for the SMEs into their credit evaluation systems in order to conform to the new accords and to quantify the credit risk assessment process. Consequently, in this research we apply data mining techniques to construct the default risk model for the SMEs in accordance to the new accords and the guidelines published by the FSC (the Financial Supervisory Commission). In addition we not only take the financial variables as the core variables but also increase the non- financial variables such as the enterprise basic characteristics and overall economic factors extensively into the default risk model in order to formulate the probability of credit default risk as well as to establish the credit rating system for the enterprise-based at risk for default in the IRB in the second pillars of the Basel II. The data which used in this research is taken from the traditional SMEs industry ranging from the year of 2003 to 2005. We use each of the following three methods, the Logistic Regression, the Neural Network and the C&R Tree, to build the model. Evaluation of the models is carried out using several statistics test results to compare the prediction accuracy of each model. Based on the result of this research under the 1:1 oversampling proportion, we are inclined to adopt the Logistic Regression techniques modeling as our chosen choice of model. There are six variables being selected from the dataset as the final significant variables in the default risk model. After multiple testing of the model, we believe that this model can withstand the testing for its capability of prediction even when applying in a different time frame or on other data set. More importantly this model is in conformity with the Basel II requirements published by the FSC which makes it even more practical in terms of evaluating credit risk default and credit rating system in the banking industry.
677

Using management information systems to determine the client loyalty drivers in small and medium-sized enterprises within the banking industry / Anis Stewart

Stewart, Anna Isabella January 2013 (has links)
The landscape of banking has changed drastically over the past two decades. Client loyalty is key for banks to stay relevant and deliver sustainable growth. In that context the objective of this research is to identify the main factors that determine client loyalty of small to medium sized businesses to banks and to rank these according to importance. The purpose of the study is using management information systems to determine the client loyalty drivers in SMEs within the banking industry as well as ranking them according to the level of importance. The study defines and provides a broad overview of the different concepts. It further provides an overview of the banking industry and casual factors driving the need to focus on client loyalty. A high-level overview of SMEs are also covered The current problem statement has a look at the various areas of concern to the banking industry such as high level debt ratios, weak corporate demand, and more The research methodology; objectives; design; scope; significance and the limitations of the study are outlined. Obtaining high levels of client loyalty remains a challenge for banks; failing, places banks at risk and hampers their ability to grow. MIS is the main enabler in understanding client loyalty, tracking client behaviour and changing needs. For this purpose a questionnaire was employed to obtain a deeper understanding of what drives client loyalty. A secondary source of information incorporated into the study is recent surveys done by KPMG, Accenture, Ernest & Young, and others. The model currently used by banks is based on the net promoter system. Client satisfaction, and Relationship and Service Quality are factors that get measured and incorporated in the net promoter system. Other factors that showed relevance and impact on client loyalty are Product Quality, Skills/EQ and Corporate/brand image. The researcher aims to explain the effect and influence the aforementioned have on client loyalty as well as rank these in order of importance in small to medium-sized business banking clients in South Africa. Primary data has been used in this study complemented by secondary data. A quantitative method has been adopted for this study. The techniques employed are: Frequency, Reliability (including the mean, standard deviation & Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient) and the Spearman Rank Order Correlations. The sample consisted of SMEs in Johannesburg Central Region and 200 questionnaires were distributed to conveniently selected SMEs out of a total population of 550. Sixty one (61) SMEs responded resulting in a 31% response rate. The study evidenced that the factors listed are interlinked and have an influence on client loyalty. The study has also demonstrated that the link between customer loyalty and true sustainable organic growth is well established. Limitations of the study are discussed. The researcher also recommends that a management information system be employed; that the study be extended to include large and corporate business and that the framework be broadened to include trust, product/channel, skills/EQ and brand/image. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014
678

Evaluation of competitive intelligence software for MSC-status small and medium-sized enterprises in Malaysia

Juhari, Ariff Syah January 2009 (has links)
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia, particularly In the information and communications technology (lCT) sector, are faced with an increasingly volatile environment. The Malaysian business scene has opened up their markets to the world where smaller businesses find themselves competing with newly launched multinational subsidiary and subdivision companies, along with the large local firms. The Malaysian Government has launched several campaigns and support for smaller local businesses to be more competitive and to continuously compete at par with these larger companies. This research project supports the Malaysian Government's objective of instilling a more structured approach towards a more competitive SME by focusing on the management of competitive information related to these companies. In recognising the rising need for competitive support, management and executives are increasingly relying on a concept called Competitive Intelligence (Cl), a systematic and ethical process for gathering, analysing, and managing information that can affect a company's plans, decisions, and operation. In managing competitive information, several companies have emerged especially to develop online tools and software that would enhance the Cl process and the value competitive intelligence brings to organisations. The success of these Cl software tools depends, however, on the sophistication of an organisation's understanding of the Cl process and scope of usage. Different companies derive different values from different approaches to competitive intelligence, and therefore require a flexible tool that is very specific to the company's needs. Therefore, this research investigated the structures and contexts of Malaysian Small and Mediumsized Enterprises (SMEs) based on competitive intelligence (Cl) concepts to derive a more customised approach to the use of Cl for SMEs in the ICT sector, as well as in the selection of appropriate Cl software. Mintzberg's approaches to analysing organisational structures and contexts, Bouthillier and Shearer's Intelligence Cycle, Herring's Key Intelligence Topics, and Davis' concept of effectiveness were used in two main stages. The first stage involved identifying the nature and range of SMEs, which exist under Malaysia's Multimedia Super Corridor, a government benchmarking body for local businesses. This gives an account, on the basis of cluster analysis, of a taxonomy of SME categories consisted of ten clusters. The relationships between the categories were also examined in the first stage of the research. The relationships and clusters found in the first part of the research offered the basis for the second part of the research, which constructs the criteria for evaluating online tools and software for competitive intelligence. The evaluation criteria are then used to evaluate eight Cl-ready software packages in finding suitable tools for the different categories of SMEs. Finally, the research concludes with a study of the prospective users' perceptions of effectiveness in SMEs drawn from the identified clusters. This 'multiple constituency' approach to understanding effectiveness evaluates both Davis' concept of effectiveness (usefulness), as well as the differential evaluations of perceived effectiveness. The research findings provide evidence of a range of SME structures in a variety of contexts. Levels of importance placed on different levels in the Cl process are identified, as well as aspects that need support, automation and/or augmentation. The software evaluation in the second part of the research provided ten recommendations of suitable software package(s) for each SME cluster. However, an initial review by SME managers of perceived effectiveness mostly did not reveal results that were parallel to the findings from the software evaluation study. All in all, the research confirms that SMEs can be analysed by clusters but further research would be necessary to confirm the effectiveness of using the recommended Cl software over a longer period of time.
679

Knowledge discovery for moderating collaborative projects

Choudhary, Alok K. January 2009 (has links)
In today's global market environment, enterprises are increasingly turning towards collaboration in projects to leverage their resources, skills and expertise, and simultaneously address the challenges posed in diverse and competitive markets. Moderators, which are knowledge based systems have successfully been used to support collaborative teams by raising awareness of problems or conflicts. However, the functioning of a moderator is limited to the knowledge it has about the team members. Knowledge acquisition, learning and updating of knowledge are the major challenges for a Moderator's implementation. To address these challenges a Knowledge discOvery And daTa minINg inteGrated (KOATING) framework is presented for Moderators to enable them to continuously learn from the operational databases of the company and semi-automatically update the corresponding expert module. The architecture for the Universal Knowledge Moderator (UKM) shows how the existing moderators can be extended to support global manufacturing. A method for designing and developing the knowledge acquisition module of the Moderator for manual and semi-automatic update of knowledge is documented using the Unified Modelling Language (UML). UML has been used to explore the static structure and dynamic behaviour, and describe the system analysis, system design and system development aspects of the proposed KOATING framework. The proof of design has been presented using a case study for a collaborative project in the form of construction project supply chain. It has been shown that Moderators can "learn" by extracting various kinds of knowledge from Post Project Reports (PPRs) using different types of text mining techniques. Furthermore, it also proposed that the knowledge discovery integrated moderators can be used to support and enhance collaboration by identifying appropriate business opportunities and identifying corresponding partners for creation of a virtual organization. A case study is presented in the context of a UK based SME. Finally, this thesis concludes by summarizing the thesis, outlining its novelties and contributions, and recommending future research.
680

The Balanced Scorecard during the early stages of a tech firm : A multiple case study regarding performance management in Swedish tech startups

Llorach, Carlos, Ottosson, Emanuel January 2016 (has links)
The rapid advances in technology and increase of tech investments across all the industries have promoted the emergence of several startups. Unfortunately, not all startups succeed despite of having good initial ideas. One reason to the poor business performance could be a lack of managerial control. Researchers and industry experts believe that performance management could support tech entrepreneurs to monitor and control the drivers that promote growth and their success. However, there is a lack of studies that could support these thoughts about its suitability for tech startups. Therefore, this study gathers empirical findings from Swedish tech startups as well as industry experts to discuss this issue. The findings show that a performance measurement system such as the Balanced Scorecard is a suitable practice for tech entrepreneurs. It also brings some insights about how the performance measurements evolve as the firms mature.

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