This thesis describes and discusses the application of System
Dynamics methodology as a basis for formulating diversification strategy
and control policies of the largest diversifying cement company in the
'United Kingdom. The problems of the industry such as stagnant growth,
cyclic and seasonal variations in cement demand, and overcapacity are
described.
The formulation of a SD model of the situation which captures these
problems together with its equations system are presented. The model also
simulates the planning and control processes for the selection,
initiation and completion of both expansion and diversification investment
projects. It is argued and demonstrated that the fact that these processes
consist of feedback loops should and could be utilized for understanding
these processes, advancing complementary theoretical concepts, and
designing and formulating more 'effective systems and decision rules.
An intensive analysis of the model in SD frameworks further supports
these arguments. These analyses reveal the nature of the system's dynamic
properties and its likely developments, the dynamic and situational nature
of diversification effectiveness, and the importance of several
diversification decision factors. These analyses also show how complex
the formulation of a thorough and effective diversification strategy may
become together with the ways and means of dealing with these complexities..
It is concluded that the thrust of an effective diversification lies with
the broadening of the conventional theoretical concepts and analysis to
include the dynamic characteristics of the system. It is also concluded
and shown that System Dynamics methodology can provide a strong
analytical basis for achieving these ends.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BRADFORD/oai:bradscholars.brad.ac.uk:10454/3867 |
| Date | January 1979 |
| Creators | Moslehshirazi, Ali Naghi |
| Contributors | Coyle, R.G. |
| Publisher | University of Bradford, [School of Management] |
| Source Sets | Bradford Scholars |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis, doctoral, PhD |
| Rights | <a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/"><img alt="Creative Commons License" style="border-width:0" src="http://i.creativecommons.org/l/by-nc-nd/3.0/88x31.png" /></a><br />The University of Bradford theses are licenced under a <a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/">Creative Commons Licence</a>. |
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