Purpose: This thesis aims to contribute to the literature on how the value chain for electronic components can be leveraged to obtain circular business models (CBM). By implementing activities in the value chain, circular economy (CE) can be enhanced and a circular value chain obtained. The purpose lies in mapping out activities in the value chain of electronic components and existing barriers to acknowledge where circularity can be increased by CE strategies. Based on this observation, the future path towards CBM will be facilitated. This thesis aims to answer the following research questions: What are the main barriers for a circular value chain in electronic components? and How can the transformation towards a CBM for electronic components be facilitated by a circular value chain?  Method: A qualitative case study has been carried out at Volvo CE. The study is of an abductive approach, where previous theories on CE strategies and value chains were utilised to understand how the transformation towards a CBM can be applied for electronic components. A literature review of the key concepts was conducted and primary data was collected through interviews and one focus group for validation. The data has been analysed through the use of a thematic analysis. Findings: Findings suggest that four areas are of high importance in a circular value chain for electronic components: management, technology department, suppliers relations and aftermarket. The main barriers hindering CE are insufficient objectives, inadequate external value chain integration, limited education, and inertia in technological development. Findings show that the barriers can be mitigated through enhancing CE in the following activities: strategy and organisational vision; cooperation and partners; education and qualifications; innovation and technical development. The result presents how the circular value chain is interconnected with a CBM, visualising how the key activities will facilitate the transformation towards a CBM.  Theoretical contributions & managerial implications: This thesis contributes to the scarcity of literature on value chains in electronic components and adds to research on the connection between value chains and circular business models. The thesis can act as guidance for managers when making the transformation towards a CBM, by highlighting how CE activities can be applied for a more circular value chain.  Limitations and future research: This is a single case study, making the study limited in how applicable the findings are to other industries and countries. Future studies can validate the result by examining value chains in similar companies, to improve the generalisability of our result. This thesis is limited to investigating the value chain from a strategic perspective and we acknowledge that a mapping of the operational value chain can be a matter for future research. We focus on collaboration, but operations that enhance CE in daily activities in production of electronic components are yet to be investigated.

Geometallurgy describes a holistic approach to mining (integrating geological, metallurgical, geotechnical, environmental, and more parameters) with the goal to improve the efficiency and sustainability of a mining operation. The potential of systematic optical petrography in a geometallurgical context was investigated in this study, as well as how petrography may be useful across disciplines in several blocks of the mining value chain. In a case study, twelve boulder samples (non-mineralized and mineralized) from the Rajapalot exploration property in Finland were characterized by detailed optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with the aim to delineate the origin of the respective boulders. This allowed to demonstrate some benefits and challenges of systematic optical petrography in the mining value chain and geometallurgical programs. The study was performed through the geology department at Mitta AB in Luleå, Sweden, using rock samples supplied by Mawson Gold Ltd, Finland. The Rajapalot Au-Co property lies a few km east of the Rompas Au-U property, both owned by Mawson Gold Ltd and located in the Paleoproterozoic Peräpohja belt in northwest Finland. When determining the boulders’ origin, geochemical gradients of the Peräpohja belt lithostratigraphy; oxidized sodic rocks in the Kivalo group and reduced potassic rocks in the Paakkola group were crucial factors. The mineralization style of the Rompas Au-U association and the Rajapalot Au-Co association (including the “Palokas” Fe-Mg type and the “Rumajärvi” K-Fe type) were further crucial to classify the mineralized boulders. Results show that the rock types (and suggested origin) vary between boulder samples. Most samples are presumed to originate from the Paakkola group, one sample from the Kivalo group, and a few samples are inconclusive. Furthermore, the samples impact on the mining value chain was discussed based on the results of the petrographic analysis. A method description for a more systematic way of examining rock material is presented, including for example quantitative parameters such asmodal mineralogy and grain size distribution. However, the applicability of this method description needs further study.

BACKGROUND: Globally, 80% of children with cancer live in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and 20% or less are expected to survive. Research demonstrates a gap on recording experiences of planners who have successfully established a pediatric cancer unit (PCU), lack of studies on systematic, evidence-based planning of a PCU, and absence of an actionable, practical framework that guides planners. OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study used a case study approach to examine the key elements in the planning process of effectively establishing a new PCU and identify the challenges that need to be addressed. METHODS: Porter’s Value Chain Model served as the theoretical framework to guide the research agenda. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted in 2017 with a purposive sample of 35 key informants reflecting experiences from 30 countries. An interview guide was developed and recruitment continued until saturation. Participants included physicians, nurses, architects, administrators, consultants, and academicians. Data were also employed from three other sources: document review, observation, and pre-dissertation findings. Interviews were recorded, transcribed using REV, and analyzed using NVIVO. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis and principles of grounded theory method were applied in the interview guide design and analysis. RESULTS: Respondents reported nine strategic elements essential in the process: leadership, mission, planning principles, organizational structure, situation analysis, medical model, financing, stakeholders, and international partnerships. Corruption, distrustful culture, ineffective communication, and lack of data were cited as key barriers. DISCUSSION: Documenting best practices and implementing a data-driven, systems-based planning is essential in advancing local PCU management know-how in LMIC. The modified Porter’s Value Model showed promise as a generalizable model for future public health practitioners and created a framework for systems-based, multidisciplinary approach in strategic planning. / 2020-06-30T00:00:00Z

The U.S. hardwood industry has traditionally depended on the domestic demand to sustain levels of production above 14 billion board feet per year. Because of the collapse of the U.S. housing market in 2009 and the economic recession that followed, the industry moved its sight to the international markets, as an opportunity to replace some lost demand, and pursue long term growth. Previous research on international marketing of hardwood products indicates that, there is a growing concern among U.S. companies to understand the main competitiveness factors in key markets such as Asia and Europe. Finding opportunities to add value to U.S. hardwood exports has been the goal of this research project. A case study and survey research were carried out among importers and exporters, whereby it was found that aspects related to price, quality and service, are critical in achieving competitive advantage. This motivated a study in demand and pricing management, which found that these tasks may be subject to innovation through optimization approaches. / Ph. D.

No / Supply chain management (SCM) is a major issue in many industries as organisations begin to appreciate the criticality of creating an integrated relationship with their suppliers and customers, as well as all other stakeholders. Managing the supply chain has become a way of improving competitiveness by reducing uncertainty and enhancing customer service. The concept of value chain management (VCM) is becoming quite prevalent in industry. Despite this popularity, there is little evidence of the development of accompanying theory in the literature. Without theory development, it is difficult to identify specific hypotheses and propositions, which can be tested, resulting in research that lacks focus and is perhaps irrelevant. This paper analyses the merits and limitations of SCM and provides broader awareness of VCM, its critical success factors and proposes a model, which covers four key elements supported by a drive on agility and speed.

In response to the challenge of moving society toward sustainability, a paradigm shift within the materials sector calls for a transition focusing on the socio-ecological sustainability of natural materials such as industrial hemp fibre (Cannabis sativa L.). Although well-suited for hemp cultivation, Sweden faces challenges building its hemp fibre value chain (HFVC). Taking a systems perspective, this study aimed to identify how Sweden can strengthen its HFVC by 1) uncovering system dynamics and mapping out the current HFVC and 2) identifying interventions that could strengthen the system. This study used Meadows’ 12 Leverage Points concept to analyse the data from survey-based questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with HFVC actors. The results illuminated a systemic view of the current structure of the HFVC and suggested a set of interventions for ‘shallow’ and ‘deep’ change that could move it toward sustainability. Ultimately, strengthening the HFVC to enhance sustainability depends on the ability to co-create a sustainable, resilient system. Through intentional collaboration,advocacy for hemp fibre, and strategic leadership, the HFVC has the potential to overcome the difficulty of responding urgently to the sustainability challenge while also meeting the time-intensive developmental needs of the system.

This thesis covers a qualitative case study of corporate social responsibility work in medium-sized fashion companies in the moderate price range. The aim of the study was to research the barriers and opportunities to corporate social responsibility in medium-sized fashion companies within the moderate price range in order to understand which aspects that are most important for these companies to focus on. Corporate social responsibility, shortened CSR, means taking environmental, social and financial responsibility for all actions of the company. The industry of the company as well as different company characteristics creates different contexts in which a company may work with CSR. The fashion value chain is a context for fashion companies. In order for a fashion company to be sustainable, the entire value chain should be considered, but it is within the upstream part of the fashion value chain that the most damaging processes occur and it is therefor the upstream part of the value chain that was focused on in this study. The size and price range of a company are characteristics that affects how a company may create successful CSR practices. The study also focused on the consumer perspective and the added value that CSR may bring. The study identified several perceived barriers and opportunities to CSR in medium-sized fashion companies within the moderate price range that may be important to consider in order creating successful CSR practices. Costs, quality assurance, communication and coordination where identified as important barriers. The study also identified that the added value of CSR to the brand and the increased consumer willingness to pay as important opportunities. The study found that cost-consciousness, quality assurance, communication and coordination and the added value perspective may be the most important aspects for medium-sized fashion companies in the moderate price range to focus on in the CSR work. By being aware of these barriers and opportunities, companies may create better CSR strategies, which focus on achieving the opportunities while avoiding the barriers.

Thesis (Ph.D. (Agricultural Economics)) --University of Limpopo, 2016. / Refer to document

This research investigates the challenges Scandinavian organizations face in adapting their ESG reporting practices to comply with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), introduced in January 2024. The CSRD aims to enhance Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting by implementing double materiality assessment (DMA) and expanding the scope of value chain reporting. Given its novelty and the limited academic literature on this topic, this research provides critical insights into these transformations.  Three research questions guide this study: (1) How do Scandinavian organizations conduct the DMA of their ESG reporting under the CSRD? (2) How do Scandinavian organizations address challenges in ESG reporting along the entire value chain after adopting the CSRD? (3) How is the CSRD reshaping the ESG reporting challenges faced by Scandinavian organizations? The research employs a qualitative, exploratory approach, including expert interviews and textual analysis. Grounded in Stakeholder Theory and Value Chain Theory, the study provides perspectives for understanding stakeholder engagement and value chain dynamics in ESG reporting. The findings reveal that organizations exhibit varying approaches to DMA, influenced by conflicting definitions of materiality, differing stakeholder engagement practices and subjectivity. Despite ESRS guidance, this creates challenges in comparability and implementation. In terms of value chain reporting, organizations face significant challenges in data gathering and transparency. The CSRD reshapes ESG reporting by standardizing requirements and addressing previous inconsistencies of its predecessor, the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). However, the CSRD introduces both opportunities and challenges for Scandinavian organizations.  By integrating Stakeholder and Value Chain Theory, this study highlights the importance of comprehensive stakeholder engagement and robust data systems. The findings underscore the need for ongoing adjustments and improvements of the reporting standards as organizations navigate the evolving ESG landscape under the CSRD. Ultimately, the CSRD is contributing to more sustainable and transparent business practices.

台灣於民國90年7月間通過「金融控股公司法」，有鑑於此，已有多家商業銀行申請轉型成立金融控股公司，在金融控股經營模式下，運用共同行銷方式跨業銷售保險商品，以滿足顧客一次購足（one stop shopping）之金融保險需求，惟銀行、保險之產業環境、企業文化、薪資結構、及對企業忠誠度差異頗大，因此，本研究旨在探討以金融控股公司運用行銷的交互關係所產生的綜效synergy）效果，冀望能提供業者在競爭激烈的金融環境中取得競爭優勢。 本研究係依MICHAELE. PORTER 於「競爭優勢」一書中所提之「價值鏈」模型，藉由經營單位間之交互關係，可減低差異化成本，或彌補較高的差異化成本。金控公司價值鏈之關鍵活動主要體現在基本設施、技術和行銷三個層面，而透過其價值鏈關鍵活動發掘金控公司的競爭優勢集中于差異化、成本降低和目標集聚。對新光金控公司的問卷調查也集中于基本設施、技術和行銷三個層面。結合問卷調查結果及相關理論，本研究還得出個案公司之競爭優勢主要體現于金融產品創新、業務綜效充分發揮、經營成本降低和經營風險有效控制四個層面。 個案公司競爭優勢之關鍵決定因素主要來源於經營理念與經營策略的轉變、傳統組織結構和流程的變革、適應新產業的高級人才、對資源進行整合的軟件平臺和良好的經營風險管控能力。 本研究針對研究結果，業者欲達成金控公司業務之綜效，必須衡酌外在環境與本身的核心競爭能力，並據以擬定業務整合、資訊整合及市場區隔的策略，以形成競爭對手短期內無法達成的競爭優勢。 / Our country passed “Law of Financial Holding Company” in July, 2001. Therefore, several commercial banks have applied for changing and establishing the financial holding companies. Under the business model of financial holding companies, cross-selling is adopted to meet customers’ demand of one stop shopping in financial insurance. As there are the great differences between banking and insurance in business environment, business cultures, salary structure and employee loyalty, the purpose of the research is to study the synergy resulted from various marketing strategies of marketing of the financial holding companies. Moreover, it is expected to help the financial holding companies to win competitive advantages fromthe fierce financial competition. The study is based on the model of “Value Chain” from the book of “Competitive Advantages” written by Michael E. Porter. Therefore, a questionnaire is designed in accordance with the infrastructure, technology and marketing. The interviewers are the holding company. The contents of the interview include: (1) possible sharing resources in infrastructure (2) possible sharing resources in technology (3) possible sharing resources in marketing and (4) business synergy of Bancassurance. The report suggests that to win synergy in bacassurance financial holding companies should first examine the external environment and its own core competency and then to form strategies of business integration, information integration and market segmentation.