Dissertations / Theses: 'Operation productivity'

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Deo, Balbinder Singh. "Operation based costing model for measuring productivity in production systems." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2001. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp04/NQ57506.pdf.

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Quin, Lei. "Impact of kitchen equipment and workplace layout on labor productivity in university campus foodservice operation /." This resource online, 1994. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-06112009-063514/.

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Qin, Lei. "Impact of kitchen equipment and workplace layout on labor productivity in university campus foodservice operation." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/43163.

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Campus foodservice has experienced drastic changes over the twentieth century. Its cafeteria style service has some major advantages in catering the needs of the clientele: speed of service, convenience in food selection, and range of price, and so forth. As enrollments in colleges and universities have been continuously increasing during the past few years, campus foodservice operation is gaining its importance in the foodservice industry. Additionally, it serves as a part of the marketing mix with an appeal to increasing number of students. The campus foodservice administrators are facing increased pressure of cost containment. Therefore, how to improve operational efficiency and productivity has been a major concern among foodservice managers. However, this is difficult to achieve due to the numerous variables likely to influence productivity with interrelating factors, such as policy and standard, employee and management skills, efficiency of facility layout, and so forth. There is a lack of published reports that single out these variables and provide in-depth analysis as to their impact on productivity. Efficiency of kitchen equipment and workplace layout has been identified as a variable that influences labor productivity. It is the objective of this study to utilize the variables inherent in meal production of campus foodservice operations to assess the efficiency of kitchen equipment and workplace layout and determine their impact on with labor productivity. Case studies were conducted in Owens Food Court, Shultz and Dietrick Dining Halls on the campus of Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University. Work flow analysis and process time analysis of kitchen employees was utilized to collect data in describing work flow and utilization of labor time in meal production among the dining facilities. Ten entree items were purposively sampled from each dining facility. The Product Process Gross Charts, often used in industrial engineering, were used as a major data collecting tool. A total of 150 charts, which included Move Charts, Distance Charts, Travel Charts, Description of By-pass, and Worker Process Time Charts, were utilized extensively for data collection and interpretation. The differences in work flow variables and utilization of labor time variables among the dining facilities were studied. An analysis of the influence of work flow variables on the utilization of labor time was conducted. In addition, the differences in the functioning of work flow variables in affecting utilization of labor time among the dining facilities were also analyzed. The results showed significant differences in absolute travel distance and percentage of time spent walking and (or) for delays among three dining facilities. Further more, collapsed information indicated that absolute travel distance was positively related with percentage of time spent walking and (or) for delays; and that percentage of backward movement was also positively related with percentage of time spent walking and (or) for delays. Based on the findings, it is recommended by the researcher that a smooth work flow should be achieved in kitchen design, and some major equipment and workplace should be located within the direct line of flow. Equipment and workplace should be organized into different "functional clusters". It is also recommended that further research would be useful in identifying additional variables which would account for a great percentage of variance in the utilization of labor time.
Master of Science

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Shayamano, Innocent. "Trajectory from government-managed to farmer-managed smallholder irrigation and its effects on productivity, operation and maintenance: An analysis of Mamina Smallholder Irrigation Scheme in Zimbabwe." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/6189.

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Magister Philosophiae - MPhil (LAS) (Land and Agrarian Studies)
Government's decision to devolve irrigation management to farmers was partly influenced by international policy imperatives, which were propounded mainly by institutions associated with the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) and the inability by the government to continue funding operation and maintenance costs. The central question of the study is to understand the effects of Irrigation Management Transfer (IMT) on productivity, operation and maintenance in the Mamina Irrigation Scheme. Interviews with various primary and secondary stakeholders that included the irrigators, local political leadership and locally-based agriculture extension officers were carried out. The interviews were aimed at getting an insight on land tenure, participation and representation of women, water and electricity supply system and pricing, effects of irrigation management arrangements on equity and productivity, understanding the irrigators' food security status, operation and maintenance arrangement after Irrigation Management Transfer (IMT). Findings of this study suggest that the existing governance arrangements have partly led to low crop productivity, increased water and electricity bill arrears, poor water distribution, change to uneconomic plot sizes, unsustainable increase in the number of irrigators, failure to organise for operation and maintenance. The key factors influencing the poor performance include poor collaboration, pumping system that utilised more electricity, inability of the irrigators to replace leaky pipes, failure of the irrigators to contribute towards electricity and water bills, failure of the irrigators to contribute towards operation and maintenance. The study identified nine challenges that affected the success of IMT. The challenges that lay at the heart of Mamina irrigation scheme were mainly caused by the poor irrigation technology design, pricing structure of electricity, water permit system, inequalities in water distribution, low gender participation and representation, non-availability of formal markets for certain crops, food insecurity, plot alloction and land disputes. Poverty analysis has shown that the irrigators' ability to escape from poverty or food insecurity is critically dependent upon their access to assets. Different assets are required to achieve different livelihood outcomes. The cycle of accumulation of utility bill arrears continued even after devolution because the same defective irrigation infrastructure was transferred to the irrigators. In the case of Mamina irrigation scheme, modernisation of the scheme was required to achieve different livelihood outcomes, but because this did not happen the recurrent utility bill arrears, low productivity and food insecurity continued to be a very serious challenge even after IMT.

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Williams, Trefor P. "Knowledge-based productivity analysis of construction operations." Diss., Georgia Institute of Technology, 1987. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/20195.

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Zurita, Hidalgo Jesús Alfredo. "Elaboración de un Cuadro de Mando Operativo en una Empresa Especializada Minera." Master's thesis, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC), 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/10757/625987.

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En la actualidad, la ciencia y la tecnología avanzan vertiginosamente y por ello, las empresas en su afán de ser más competitivas debido a las exigencias del mercado buscan implementar nuevas metodologías o técnicas que les permita optimizar sus procesos y así incrementar su productividad y rentabilidad. Es por ello, que esta investigación, ha tenido ese fin y se ha empleado el Cuadro de Mando Operativo para incrementar la productividad de la Empresa Especializada Minera SERMIN. Esta investigación está estructurada en 4 capítulos, los cuales se detallan a continuación. En el capítulo 1, se hace referencia al Cuadro de Mando Operativo, definición e importancia, el cual es la base para generar impacto en el incremento de la productividad, rentabilidad de la organización y la creación de un Cuadro de Mando Integral. Asimismo, la conceptualización de KPIs y los beneficios de emplearlos, así como la Gestión de Cambio Organizacional. En el Capítulo 2, se realizó una descripción de la empresa SERVICIOS MINEROS, se plasmó la misión y visión de la organización, justificación de la aplicación del Cuadro de Mando Operativo, así como los objetivos generales y específicos. En el capítulo 3, se describen las actividades realizadas para la creación y aplicación del Cuadro de Mando Operativo y para ello, se creó la Matriz de Responsabilidades para las áreas involucradas en el proceso (Producción, Logística, Administración, Seguridad y Mantenimiento) y dentro del cual se propuso reportar diariamente la data de acuerdo a los KPIs establecidos que permitían medir el Margen Operativo de la producción en tiempo real. En el capítulo 4, se muestran los resultados obtenidos después de la aplicación del Cuadro de Mando Operativo, el cumplimiento de los objetivos propuestos inicialmente, tales como identificar el margen operativo en el proceso de excavación antes y después de la implementación. Finalmente, se evidencian las conclusiones y recomendaciones, luego de haber realizado este proceso de mejora con el fin de contribuir al éxito de la organización, satisfacer al cliente, incrementar la productividad y, por ende, la rentabilidad.
At present, science and technology advance vertiginously and therefore, companies in their desire to be more competitive due to market demands seek to implement new methodologies or techniques that allow them to optimize their processes and thus increase their productivity and profitability. That is why, this research has had this purpose and has been used Operational Command Control to increase the productivity of the SERMIN Specialized Mining Company. Therefore, this research is structured in 4 chapters, which are detailed below. In Chapter 1, reference is made to Operational Command Control, definition and importance, which is the basis for generating an impact on the increase in productivity, profitability of the organization and the creation of a Balanced Scorecard. Also, the conceptualization of KPIs and the benefits of using them. In Chapter 2, a description of the company SERVICIOS MINEROS was made, the mission and vision of the organization, justification of the application of the Operational Command Control, as well as the general and specific objectives. In chapter 3, the activities carried out for the application of the Operational Command Control are described and for this, a Manual of functions was created for the areas involved in the process (Residence, Productivity, Logistics, Administration, Security and Maintenance) and within of which it was proposed to report the daily data according to the established KPIs that allowed to measure the Operating Margin of the production in real time. In chapter 4, the results obtained after the application of the Operating Command Control, the fulfillment of the initially proposed objectives, such as identifying the operating margin in the excavation process before and after the implementation, are shown. Finally, the conclusions and recommendations are evidenced, after having made this improvement process in order to contribute to the success of the organization, satisfy the client, increase productivity and, therefore, profitability.
Tesis

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Ліщенко, Наталя Володимирівна. "Підвищення продуктивності профільного зубошліфування на верстатах з ЧПК на основі адаптації елементів технологічної системи." Thesis, НТУ "ХПІ", 2018. http://repository.kpi.kharkov.ua/handle/KhPI-Press/37663.

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Дисертація на здобуття наукового ступеня доктора технічних наук за спеціальністю 05.02.08 – технологія машинобудування. – Національний технічний університет "Харківський політехнічний інститут", Харків, 2018. Дисертація присвячена рішенню важливої науково-технічної проблеми підвищення продуктивності бездефектного профільного зубошліфування на верстатах з ЧПК на основі розробки відповідних технологічних передумов та підсистем проектування, моніторингу і технологічної діагностики операції, які дозволяють виконувати адаптацію елементів технологічної системи до більш високої продуктивності. Для цього розроблено методологію дослідження технологічної системи зубошліфування з використанням наукових методів моделювання, оптимізації і керування, а також відповідні технологічні передумови у вигляді комплексу цілеспрямованих методів і засобів інноваційної технології профільного зубошліфування: математичні моделі припуску для перетворення невизначеності припуску у величину відводу шліфувального круга, метод вирівнювання припуску по периферії зубчастого колеса без внесення корекції в його кутове положення, метод адаптивної правки профільного шліфувального круга тощо. Теоретично показано і практично підтверджено технологічну перевагу високопоруватих шліфувальних кругів у порівнянні зі переривчастими кругами. Виконано комплекс експериментальних досліджень і заводських випробувань, що підтвердили ефективність розроблених методів і засобів.
Thesis for the degree of doctor of technical sciences on specialty 05.02.08 – manufacturing engineering. – National Technical University "Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute", Kharkiv, 2018. The thesis is devoted to solving an important scientific and technical problem of increasing the productivity of defect-free profile gear grinding on CNC machines on the basis of the development of appropriate technological preconditions and subsystems for the designing, monitoring and diagnosing of the operation, which allow adapting the elements of the grinding system to higher productivity. For this purpose a methodology is developed for researching the profile grinding system using scientific methods of modeling, optimization and control, as well as corresponding technology preconditions in the form of a set of purposeful methods and means of innovative profile grinding technology, to wit: grinding stock mathematical models for the transformation of the grinding stock uncertainty into the taking grinding wheel away from a gear to be grinded, method of the grinding stock aligning on the gear periphery without making corrections in its angular position, method of a profile grinding wheel adaptive dressing, etc. The software for these subsystems is created on the basis of the mathematical models of the temperature field with and without taking into account the effect of forced cooling. The technological superiority of high-porosity grinding wheel has been theoretically demonstrated and practically confirmed in comparison with special discontinuous wheel. Complex of experimental research and factory tests is performed for confirming the effectiveness of the methods and means developed.

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Ліщенко, Наталя Володимирівна. "Підвищення продуктивності профільного зубошліфування на верстатах з ЧПК на основі адаптації елементів технологічної системи." Thesis, Одеська національна академія харчових технологій, 2018. http://repository.kpi.kharkov.ua/handle/KhPI-Press/37665.

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Дисертація на здобуття наукового ступеня доктора технічних наук за спеціальністю 05.02.08 – технологія машинобудування. – Національний технічний університет "Харківський політехнічний інститут", Харків, 2018. Дисертація присвячена рішенню важливої науково-технічної проблеми підвищення продуктивності бездефектного профільного зубошліфування на верстатах з ЧПК на основі розробки відповідних технологічних передумов та підсистем проектування, моніторингу і технологічної діагностики операції, які дозволяють виконувати адаптацію елементів технологічної системи до більш високої продуктивності. Для цього розроблено методологію дослідження технологічної системи зубошліфування з використанням наукових методів моделювання, оптимізації і керування, а також відповідні технологічні передумови у вигляді комплексу цілеспрямованих методів і засобів інноваційної технології профільного зубошліфування: математичні моделі припуску для перетворення невизначеності припуску у величину відводу шліфувального круга, метод вирівнювання припуску по периферії зубчастого колеса без внесення корекції в його кутове положення, метод адаптивної правки профільного шліфувального круга тощо. Теоретично показано і практично підтверджено технологічну перевагу високопоруватих шліфувальних кругів у порівнянні зі переривчастими кругами. Виконано комплекс експериментальних досліджень і заводських випробувань, що підтвердили ефективність розроблених методів і засобів.
Thesis for the degree of doctor of technical sciences on specialty 05.02.08 – manufacturing engineering. – National Technical University "Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute", Kharkiv, 2018. The thesis is devoted to solving an important scientific and technical problem of increasing the productivity of defect-free profile gear grinding on CNC machines on the basis of the development of appropriate technological preconditions and subsystems for the designing, monitoring and diagnosing of the operation, which allow adapting the elements of the grinding system to higher productivity. For this purpose a methodology is developed for researching the profile grinding system using scientific methods of modeling, optimization and control, as well as corresponding technology preconditions in the form of a set of purposeful methods and means of innovative profile grinding technology, to wit: grinding stock mathematical models for the transformation of the grinding stock uncertainty into the taking grinding wheel away from a gear to be grinded, method of the grinding stock aligning on the gear periphery without making corrections in its angular position, method of a profile grinding wheel adaptive dressing, etc. The software for these subsystems is created on the basis of the mathematical models of the temperature field with and without taking into account the effect of forced cooling. The technological superiority of high-porosity grinding wheel has been theoretically demonstrated and practically confirmed in comparison with special discontinuous wheel. Complex of experimental research and factory tests is performed for confirming the effectiveness of the methods and means developed.

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Morrell, Peter. "Capital productivity and investment : their role in profitable airline operations." Thesis, Cranfield University, 2003. http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/7885.

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The aim of the research was to develop and apply improved measures of capital productivity using published airline data, and to evaluate the role of capital investment and productivity in overall airline performance. As well as contributing to total factor productivity, capital productivity is a partial measure, and the investment upon which it is based should improve the productivity of other inputs to the production process, in particular labour and fuel. Productivity ratios require outputs and inputs to be combined and indexed. Index numbers have been developed using weights that are consistent with the underlying economic theory, and also meet various tests (such as reversal and products). Airline passenger, cargo and incidentals were combined using a number of such index number approaches. Capital inputs were estimated using annual lease equivalents which when discounted to the present over the expected future economic lives of the assets resulted gave either balance sheet values adjusted to a common year’s prices, or the total of the market values of individual assets (aircraft).

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Elsaeiby, Aber. "Healthcare Operations Management: Models for Improving Productivity, Scheduling and Quality." University of Toledo / OhioLINK, 2015. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1449421673.

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Lee, Seung-Hyun. "A process model for controlling project productivity of highway construction operations." [Gainesville, Fla.] : University of Florida, 2003. http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/UFE0002370.

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Smith, Simon D. "Productivity estimation of earthmoving operations using a discrete-event simulation model." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/12143.

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The earthmoving industry in the UK is described with reference to the major changes in emphasis over the past few decades. The sites that were chosen for study are described and the method of data collection outlined. A determinate model is developed. This is solved using a spreadsheet and the term match factor, indicating the efficiency of an earthmoving operation, is introduced. The disadvantages of the determinate model are discussed with the main conclusion that the variability in the earthmoving plant's working rates means that the production cannot be calculated accurately by determinate methods. A model is then developed based on the discrete-event models used to evaluate queuing systems. This model was initially tested on a computer spreadsheet but a dedicated program, in C, was later written. Discrete-event simulation requires the generation of random numbers and emphasis is placed on the determination of the probability distributions that accurately represent the real distributions of plant cycle times. A three stage validation process was used which involved both the acceptance from 'experts' of the modelled system (which was obtained both in the UK and the United States) and also the ability of the model to determine accurately the production of observed operations. The simulation model could then, once validated, be used as an experimental platform. Experiments on actual operations have indicated which of the input factors to an operation the output is most sensitive to. They have shown that the correct number of trucks and maximisation of the loader working rate is essential of efficient earthmoving.

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Lindenbaum, Eric James. "Enhanced productivity tools : an analysis of their procurement, implementation and operations." Thesis, Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School, 1991. http://hdl.handle.net/10945/26528.

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Richards, Jr Wayne K. "Exploring Increased Productivity Through Employee Engagement." ScholarWorks, 2011. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/1096.

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Disengaged employees cost U.S. companies billions of dollars annually in lowered productivity, a cost which has been compounded by the difficult economic situations in the country. The potential for increasing productivity through increased employee engagement was examined in this study. Using personal engagement theory and the theory of planned behavior, the purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore how the experiences of salaried aerospace employees affected productivity and the financial performance of an organization. Interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 20 aerospace employees whose responses were codified and analyzed to identify themes. The analysis indicated that (a) the lived experiences of employees influenced employee engagement, (b) employee engagement affects organizational commitment and performance, and (c) trust and respect and leadership are essential components to keep employees engaged. Eighty percent of the participants indicated that as employee engagement increases so too does organizational performance. The implications for positive social change include new insights for leaders seeking to increase productivity and financial performance, and to support employee engagement for maintaining sustainability, retaining talent, increasing profits, and improving the economy.

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Stembridge, Gainer Perdeeta. "The Effects of Emotional Intelligence on Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5531.

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Research has shown that emotional intelligence is becoming an essential area of study to determine a person's potential for overall success as well as success in the workplace. Although noncognitive skills are not always a factor that leaders use in determining workplace efficiency, these skills may impact productivity. The purpose of this single case study was to explore the impact of noncognitive skills and the perception administrators and employees have regarding skills that are critical to their jobs and work performance. The conceptual framework used for this study was the emotional intelligence theory authored by Daniel Goleman in 1995, which studied personality qualities. The population consisted of 5 managerial staff members and 20 employees within the public university sector. The selection criteria consisted of managers, faculty and staff members. All participants with at least 1 year of experience were eligible to participate in the study. The data collection process included an open-ended online questionnaire for the managerial staff and a short online survey for employees. The focus of this study comprised 6 skills: communication, self-confidence, teamwork, work ethics, problem-solving ability, and leadership. Several patterns and themes emerged relating to the effects of emotional intelligence on job performance and productivity. The findings from this study could be vital for understanding the current and future impact of noncognitive skills in the work environment and could positively impact social change. Organizational leaders could use the results to develop strategies that would enhance their decision-making process and develop tools to promote employee productivity.

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Aniemene, Fabian. "Strategies for Increased Productivity Through Control of Process Constraints." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/4588.

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In Nigeria, manufacturing businesses play a vital role in the industrial growth of the nation and have many dynamic benefits crucial for the growth of a sustainable economy. The manufacturing sector has added substantially to the gross domestic products of many countries. Nonetheless, 50% of manufacturing firms in Nigeria experience a decline in production capacity utilization and profitability because of inefficient production processes. The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategies leaders of manufacturing firms in Nigeria use to support efficient manufacturing operations. The theory of constraints served as the conceptual framework for this study. Eight participants from two manufacturing firms in Nigeria who had strategies to support efficient manufacturing operations participated in this study. Data sources included semistructured interviews and the review of organizational documents consisting of corporate quality policy, quality objectives, and mission statements. Analysis involved data compilation, data coding by breaking it down into categories, and reassembling the data into emergent themes. Member checking and methodological triangulation strengthened the credibility of the findings. Four major themes emerged: strategic planning, continuous process improvement, strategic equipment maintenance, and strategic capacity expansion. The findings from this research might provide the basis for developing an advanced manufacturing practice for some Nigerian manufacturing firms that could contribute to social change by improving production efficiency, local consumption, and sustainable economic growth.

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Narayanan, Sowmya Sriram Swaminathan Jayashankar M. Balasubramanian Sridhar. "Essays on operational productivity and customer satisfaction in offshore software projects." Chapel Hill, N.C. : University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2007. http://dc.lib.unc.edu/u?/etd,1153.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2007.
Title from electronic title page (viewed Mar. 27, 2008). "... in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Kenan-Flagler Business School." Discipline: Business Administration; Department/School: Business School, Kenan-Flagler.

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Mashal, Huda. "Uncontrolled Workplace Breaks and Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3309.

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Behaviors that may waste time in the workplace, like surfing the Internet for personal purposes (cyberloafing) or smoking breaks, may be the root antecedent for poor productivity. The purpose of this correlational study was to examine whether there was a relationship between the independent variables: time spent cyberloafing and time in uncontrolled smoking breaks, and the dependent variable: employee productivity. Procedural justice theory was used to frame the study. The population consisted of 34 employees working in a multinational engineering company in Jordan who have official smoking policies, but not cyberloafing policies. Correlations and multiple regression were computed using a Cyberloafing Scale and time spent smoking (independent variables) and The Endicott Work Productivity Scale (dependent variable). The results of the correlations indicated no significant relationship between Internet surfing and employee productivity. Smoking breaks were not a significant source of wasted time during the workday (the subsample and frequency of engaging in smoking were low); therefore, smoking did not have an effect on productivity. The findings of this study support the theory that using the Internet at work does not affect employee productivity. These findings have implications for positive social change that are also supported by existing research. Employees who engage in personal Internet activities at work tend to meet private demands and obligations. This connectivity may help to facilitate work-life balance.

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Robinson, Dayton Dave. "Using Succession Strategies to Increase Workplace Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/6271.

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Approximately 70% of small and medium-sized enterprises fail due to a lack of effective leadership succession planning. The purpose of this qualitative single case study was to explore strategies that some business leaders in the manufacturing sector in Jamaica used to implement leadership succession plans. Data were collected from semistructured interviews conducted with 5 business leaders who participated in the succession strategies of a manufacturing organization in Jamaica. Data were analyzed according to Yin's 5-step process. Analysis of data collected from interview sessions and review of company documentation were used to conduct methodological triangulation to validate the findings. Five themes emerged from data analysis: (a) identification of mission-critical roles, (b) talent acquisition and selection, (c) successor development and retention program, (d) organizational designs and policy implementation, and (e) senior leadership support and participation. The findings of this study might be used by business leaders to impact social change by developing and creating a leadership pipeline from diverse backgrounds to ensure future business growth in a competitive global environment.

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Drumheller, Dolores. "Information Withholding and the Management of Productivity in Teams." ScholarWorks, 2011. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/1059.

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The importance of good communications between team members has been well documented. Yet previous studies on communications between team members have neglected to focus on reasons for information withholding between people working on teams. The purpose of this case study of 16 engineers and 6 educators was to understand why team members withhold information when working together. A convenience sample was selected from a software engineering organization. Collective intelligence theory in a modern communications environment was used as the theoretical foundation. This theory posits that the synergy of full group collaboration results in enhanced performance and the spread of new ideas. The exploratory research questions addressed in this study were designed to understand how employees decide what information to withhold when participating on teams; how withholding information is influenced by critical thinking, creativity, positions on a team, and type of employee; and the effects of information withholding. Collected data from online interviews were transcribed and validated via member checks, coded using open and axial coding, and analyzed. Seven themes were found: insecurity, gate keeping, discrimination, personality, creativity, organizational structure, and team management. The results of this study may provide information that can help managers understand employees' experiences with, reactions to, and opinions about information withholding and provide strategies to create an environment in which team members do not withhold information from each other, thus improving or enhancing positive social change in organizations.

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Rylander, David. "Productivity Improvements in Construction Site Operations through Lean Thinking and Wireless Real-Time Control." Licentiate thesis, Mälardalens högskola, Inbyggda system, 2014. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:mdh:diva-26310.

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The purpose of a quarry is to extract rock material to deliver gravels, cement and asphalt to its customers. These products are important input to the construction and maintenance of road infrastructure, buildings and more. The operation of quarry and road work sites is similar to factory production, since it contains sequential production processes, tasks and activities to produce the output product. Compared to the factory, the quarry and road work processes are generally not synchronized and controlled towards the overall throughput in real-time. Some sites control parts of the production but do generally not utilize real-time technologies for the whole site and all its activities. This fact indicates a general improvement potential in increased productivity, but also unsolved challenges for the same reason. This thesis investigate how Lean thinking utilizing real-time control and wireless communication can be used to improve productivity and safety in the operation of quarry and road construction. The main overall contribution is the identified operational improvements, its use cases, the system design constraints and challenges as well as assessed impact in productivity, energy efficiency and safety if introducing wireless real-time control to the site operation. The results include the presentation and demonstration of a developed method based on Lean value stream mapping, for identifying wastes in sequential processes and activities including mobile machines. Further it investigates the performance and evaluates how the latest developments of wireless communication and vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANET) can be utilized within the quarry and road construction operation. The main system requirements and constraints are identified and the tradeoffs and gains in terms of system design, communication coverage, energy consumption and safety for the identified use cases are presented.
Bergtäckter uppfyller viktiga funktioner eftersom de producerar olika typer av stenkross, cement och asfaltsprodukter nödvändiga för alla typer av byggnationer såsom vägar, tunnlar, broar och byggnader och dess underhåll. Bergtäckt och vägarbetsprocessen består likt en industriell produktionsanläggning av sekventiella aktiviteter för att producera slutprodukten. Men i motsats till moderna produktionsanläggningar så är inte alla aktiviteter och maskiner styrda mot genomflödet för anläggningen, vilket gör att aktiviteter med överkapacitet genererar kostnader i form av lager och onödig resursåtgång. Detta faktum indikerar en potential i produktivitetsförbättring för dessa segment, men också olösta utmaningar. Den här uppsatsen utreder hur den inom produktionsteknik välkända Lean filosofin tillsammans med den senaste utvecklingen av trådlösa styrsystem kan användas för att förbättra produktivitet och säkerhet för bergtäckts och vägarbetssegmentet. Det huvudsakliga bidraget är identifierade förbättringar av produktivitet och säkerhet i den operativa verksamheten, dess användarfall, systemdesignens komponenter, utmaningar och begränsningar vid introduktion av trådlösa styrsystem. Resultatet inkluderar redogörelsen av en utvecklad och demonstrerad metodik baserad på Lean - värdeflödesanalys för att identifiera slöseri i operativ verksamhet inkluderande mobila maskiner och fordon. Dessutom undersöker och utvärderar uppsatsen prestandan och användbarhet av den senaste utvecklingen av trådlösa kommunikationssystem baserat på ad-hoc nätverk för vägfordon. De övergripande systemkraven identifieras och nödvändiga avvägningar diskuteras i form av systemdesign, kommunikationsprestanda, kostnad, energibesparingar och säkerhetsförbättringar för segmenten.
ITS-EASY

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22

Primack, Willow. "Analysis and productivity improvement of an automated material handling system through simulation." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/99026.

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Thesis: M.B.A., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management, 2015. In conjunction with the Leaders for Global Operations Program at MIT.
Thesis: S.M., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 2015. In conjunction with the Leaders for Global Operations Program at MIT.
Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 66-67).
As Amazon.com has grown, the company has invested in warehouse systems similar to those traditionally found in manufacturing. These systems are a complex and interconnected set of manned work processing stations linked together by conveyance. This thesis examines one such system, arranged as a set of parallel single piece workflow lines joined by a central computerized sorter that route work between lines, and examines the effect of sorter algorithms and line capacity on production output. Work studies, interviews, and a practical experiment suggest a deterioration in the feedback provided to the central sorter for work routing. A Monte Carlo simulation model of the system further supports this hypothesis, suggesting that system throughput is 11.7% lower than a system that perfectly routes work to line in a pull fashion. While perfect routing is not practically feasible, the thesis then explores two routing heuristics designed around starvation response and dynamic capacity analysis, which simulation suggest may yield a 6.73% increase in throughput. In doing so, the thesis provides a case study on process improvement using simulation to characterize a complicated mechanical production system that is otherwise analytically intractable.
by Willow Primack.
M.B.A.
S.M.

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23

Thomas, Marston A. "Examining perceptions of managers and financial advisors of a mentoring program on productivity and retention." ScholarWorks, 2011. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/909.

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Researchers have found that 90% of financial advisors leave the life insurance industry in first year, 68% in the second year, and 50% in the third year. Researchers have noted the importance of mentorship aimed at work attitudes, yet there is a lack of research concerning attrition and its effects on the industry. The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine managers' and financial advisors' perception of a mentoring program on advisors productivity and retention. Social learning theory was applied as the theoretical framework for this study. Data were collected from financial advisors and their managers across 13 branch offices from a major life insurance company. Data analysis included Pearson product moment, the independent t test, and analysis of variance. Specific quantitative findings indicated (a) a low but statistically significant positive correlation (r = .13) between advisors' number of years of working and mentoring scores, (b) low but statistically significant negative correlation coefficient ( r = -.19) between financial advisors' years of employment and productivity. The findings invite future research on the development of a mentoring program for advisors productivity and retention. The conclusion is that mentoring could be used to improve self-esteem and self-efficacy among advisors and a good applied recommendation would be that company leaders formulate policy to implement mentoring programs at all branches to improve job productivity and retention. Social change implications include opportunities for advisors to improve their job performance, thereby contributing revenue to the organization and the national economy.

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Yildirim, Hayri Tacettin 1957. "THE IMPACT OF OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES ON PRODUCTIVITY UNDER TURKISH PREMIER OZAL'S NEW INDUSTRIAL POLICY." Thesis, The University of Arizona, 1987. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/276541.

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This thesis is an introductory research study on the impact of operations management techniques on productivity under Turkish Premier Turgut Ozal's industrial policy. The effectiveness of opening up the economy to international competition has been analyzed by comparing the present industrial productivity to the productivity figures before Premier Turgut Ozal. The evaluation is done through four major areas: quality, operations research techinques, inventory and manpower planning. The final chapter gives a summary of the findings and suggests that competition most likely has helped Turkish industry increase their productivity in these four areas.

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Cal, Anthony Cal. "Strategies Among Health Care Business Professionals to Increase Productivity and Revenue." ScholarWorks, 2016. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/2642.

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Health care business professionals have been slow to implement electronic medical records (EMRs), although this is a federal requirement tied to reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid. Guided by the conceptual framework of the technology acceptance model (TAM), the purpose of this single-case study was to explore EMR strategies that health care business professionals use to increase productivity and revenue. The target population was comprised of health care business professionals with EMR strategies in Orange County, New York. Methodological triangulation included analysis of semistructured interviews with 7 health care business professionals and review of organizational documents consisting of emails, meeting minutes, and a handbook. The recruitment strategy used was random sampling and snowball sampling. Analysis included compiling data, coding the data by disassembling into categories, and reassembling the data into emergent themes. The findings of the study included 5 themes or strategies focused on EMR implementation, leaders' efforts to support and sustain the EMR, helping users accept the EMR, communication and efficiency for increasing productivity and revenue, and helping users improve health care safety. Health care business organizations can benefit by knowing where to focus their resources, maximizing return on investment. The findings could effect social change by enumerating strategies that businesses can use to improve performance, and productivity for health care business professionals and improve quality, care coordination, and management of population health and safety of health care for patients.

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Beasley, Grace Elizabeth. "Strategies to Improve Productivity of a Multigenerational Workforce." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3588.

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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that millennials will soon represent 46% of the workforce. The anticipated changes in the workforce are of great concern to business leaders who may manage individuals from different generations. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the strategies that administrative leaders in an advisory group of community-based organizations and educational institutions used to improve the productivity of a multigenerational workforce. The conceptual frameworks that grounded this study were the social constructivist perspective and generational theory. Data were collected from semistructured interviews to elicit narratives from 6 administrative leaders from 6 different nonprofit organizations selected via purposive sampling throughout the northeast region of the United States with experience improving the productivity of a multigenerational workforce. Data also came from a review of company documents and a reflexive journal. Data analysis entailed coding, identifying relevant themes, using Yin's 5 step analytic strategy approach, and member checking to strengthen the validity of the interpretations of participants' responses. Two principal themes emerged from the data: effective leadership strategies and essential retention strategies to improve productivity. The overall analysis of the 2 principal themes revealed the importance of communication, teamwork, training, work-life programs, recognition, knowledge sharing, and feedback in improving the productivity of a multigenerational workforce. Findings from this study may contribute to social change because chief executive officers (CEO) may use the strategies to implement corrective measures to positively influence the productivity of a multigenerational workforce.

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Hsu, Kevin(Kevin Ta-Zhi). "Using factory-level digital tools to improve quality and productivity in garment factories." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2019. https://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/122590.

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Thesis: M.B.A., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management, 2019, In conjunction with the Leaders for Global Operations Program at MIT
Thesis: S.M., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 2019, In conjunction with the Leaders for Global Operations Program at MIT
Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 66-67).
The retail landscape is rapidly changing as evolving consumer habits are resulting in smaller batch quantities and shorter lead times, requiring Li & Fung to have a more digitally connected, nimble vendor base. Li & Fung uses a supplier network of thousands of garment factories around the world, the majority of whom are still capturing quality and production data manually, resulting in incomplete and inaccurate records. Factories see the value in making their operations digital, but most are low margin businesses that do not have the capital to make significant investments. This project is focused on the development of a cost-effective, digital tool to capture quality and production data at the end of a production line. This new tool will: -- Allow managers to quickly access real-time data analytics on their factory, -- Enable factories to make immediate root cause corrections in the sewing line, -- Serve as a gateway for Li & Fung to more proactively manage its vendor base,--
Give Li & Fung visibility to eliminate unnecessary inspection activities and reduce costs. The project began with an initial hardware prototype created in 2017 that evolved into the Phase One version of a mobile application which was delivered in early 2018. User testing was performed in three factories in India and Malaysia, where feedback was incorporated into a comprehensive redesign in Phase Two. The thesis will detail the needs and challenges from both the factory and Li & Fung viewpoints, and how this digital tool seeks to address them. For garment factories, the tool is cost-effective and simple, enabling factories to become digital in a very accessible way. The tool introduces garment factories to technology and Internet of Things without over-complicating their operations.
For Li & Fung, the tool provides much-needed insights into the actual performance of the vendor base, allowing Li & Fung to achieve many of its strategic initiatives related to inspection cost reduction, vendor selection, and production tracking.
by Kevin Hsu.
M.B.A.
S.M.
M.B.A. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management
S.M. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering

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Twyman-Abrams, Bont'e. "Strategies to Sustain Positive Leader-Employee Relationships to Increase Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3963.

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Senior executive leaders face ongoing challenges assessing whether their leadership teams have the competencies to respond to rapidly changing business conditions resulting from negative leader-employee interactions. The purpose of this qualitative single-unit case study was to explore strategies that team leaders at an online, for-profit high school education system located in Delaware, used to sustain positive leader-employee relationships to increase employee productivity. The population consisted of 5 current team leaders (faculty members and executives) at the study site who had experienced team member losses, yet had implemented effective strategies to sustain positive leader-employee relationships and increased employee productivity. The conceptual frameworks that grounded this doctoral study were path-goal and transformational leadership theories. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data collected through semistructured interviews, note taking, and company documents, with member checking implemented to validate the findings. Four themes emerged from the analysis: leadership styles and strategies, motivation, goal setting, and employee engagement and productivity. The implications for positive social change include the potential for top executives, stakeholders, and team leaders to increase the number of positive leader-employee relationships resulting in increased productivity, a favorable organizational reputation, and lower turnover rates, contributing to the financial stability and prosperity of not only employees but also communities and families.

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Mtepa, Msafiri. "Eskom operational efficiency : an investigation of the productivity, financial and technical performance of resources." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/6926.

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Bibliography: leaves 152-161.
There have been major changes in the electricity supply industry in most parts of the world. In South Africa, the government intends to restructure and/or introduce competition in the ESI. The need to reform, to introduce competition and/or to privatise power utilities is primarily aimed at boosting their efficiencies, although other reform drivers such as facilitation of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and mobilisation of private capital should not be neglected. There are, however, conflicting opinions concerning ESI reform and/or privatisation in South Africa. On the one hand, the advocates of power sector reform and privatisation argue that South Africa's existing ESI is not efficient and therefore must be restructured, thereafter competition must be introduced in the industry to boost its efficiency and the quality of its supply. On the other hand, the opponents of reform and competition argue persuasively that the ESI (particularly Eskom) is performing well, because Eskom is currently selling electricity at a lower price than many (if not all) other utilities in the world while nevertheless still earning a profit. As performance improvements ultimately result in lower prices and high quality services, many attribute Eskom's comparatively low prices to an efficient operational performance and are of the opinion that the organisation does not need to be restructured. However, low operational costs do not necessarily imply that all efficiency improvements have been realised and may, in part, be due to factors such as low fuel costs. Furthermore, whilst improvements in operational performance do indeed reduce operating costs, investment efficiency, which has an even longer-term impact, reduces the proportion of capital-related costs in the electricity price. In this regard, the South African government's intention to restructure the ESI should not be mistakenly ascribed to its aim of improving Eskom's operational performance only but rather to its wish to achieve a number of objectives including improved investment efficiency and also attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).

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Hinckeldeyn, Johannes. "Investigating the applicability of operations management methods for improving productivity of product design and engineering processes." Thesis, University of the West of Scotland, 2013. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.729424.

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31

Gaines, Tamera Monai. "Strategies for Virtual Sales Leaders to Increase Productivity of Remote Employees." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5008.

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An employee's contributions toward the success of organizational results and objectives are essential to how virtual sales leaders implement strategies to improve productivity. In 2014, 21% of virtual leaders received formal training to manage remote employees, and 17% of remote employees received formal training on how to work productively. The purpose of this single qualitative case study was to explore strategies virtual sales leaders used to improve remote sales employees' productivity. The population included 6 virtual sales leaders in 1 staffing organization located in Michigan. The conceptual framework for this study included the job demands-resources model. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, direct observation, organizational document review, and reflective journaling using thematic analysis. Three themes emerged from the data analyzed in this research study: high level of communication, including virtual meetings for improved relationship development; adapting to change and work environment, including introduction of change before implementing; and measurement of employee performance, which could include monitoring activity reports and metric tracking tools. Findings included developing consistent team and individual meetings to communicate metrics and goals, implementing varied communication tools to encourage self-management, involving employees in decision making before changes were executed, and developing attainable employee goals to promote a productive work environment. Contributions to social change include the opportunity to develop an employable and specialized workforce who contribute to the local economy as well as expand community development and higher income for families.

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Brown, Mary Erin. "Data-Driven Decision Making as a Tool to Improve Software Development Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2011. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/1075.

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The worldwide software project failure rate, based on a survey of information technology software manager's view of user satisfaction, product quality, and staff productivity, is estimated to be between 24% and 36% and software project success has not kept pace with the advances in hardware. The problem addressed by this study was the limited information about software managers' experiences with data-driven decision making (DDD) in agile software organizations as a tool to improve software development productivity. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore how agile software managers view DDD as a tool to improve software development productivity and to understand how agile software development organizations may use DDD now and in the future to improve software development productivity. Research questions asked about software managers', project managers', and agile coaches' lived experiences with DDD via a set of interview questions. The conceptual framework for the research was based on the 3 critical dimensions of software organization productivity improvement: people, process, and tools, which were defined by the Software Engineering Institute's Capability Maturity Model Integrated published in 2010. Organizations focus on processes to align the people, procedures and methods, and tools and equipment to improve productivity. Positive social change could result from a better understanding of DDD in an agile software development environment; this increased understanding of DDD could enable organizations to create more products, offer more jobs, and better compete in a global economy.

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Reid, Alan Michael. "Optimising operations effectiveness and capacity at a heavy engineering plant / Reid A." Thesis, North-West University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10394/7303.

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This study focuses on optimising operations effectiveness and capacity at a heavy engineering plant, namely Heavy Engineering Vereeniging, a division of DCD–DORBYL (Pty) Ltd. The implementation and adoption of technology was included in the investigation. The company operates from 2 premises in Vereeniging and Vanderbijlpark (Gauteng), and consists of 5 factory buildings. A literature review was conducted to ascertain current industry best practises and technology implementation initiatives. This review included a discussion on the following aspects: Capacity and its utilisation, flexible technology and advanced manufacturing systems, technology in manufacturing, capacity expansion and scheduling, factory layouts, technology and capacity utilisation in a South African context, and finally future trends in capacity and technology at Heavy Engineering Vereeniging. Data collection from within the organisation was done via the issuing of a questionnaire and conducting interviews with various management and supervision employees. The gathered data was analysed for employees’ opinions on current utilisation of capacity and use of technology, as well as suggestions regarding improved working methods, factory layout and the implementation of new technology. The quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software, with the provided descriptive statistical test results used for the identification of possible trends and further interpretation. It was found that current capacities and equipment are being well utilised, but not to their optimal level. The well entrenched management information systems, measurement systems and operating procedures currently in use will aid to increase the level of utilisation of the available capacity and equipment. The implementation of technology and latest best practises within the operation will gain HEV a competitive edge, ensuring their future sustainability and market leadership. However, this implementation must be done with the input and buy in of the work force. The variances in perceptions and attitudes between the various job functions, discovered during the statistical analysis, must be taken into cognisance during any capacity optimisation or technology implementation initiative. Continued capital expenditure and the current drives in research and development need to be maintained to further ensure sustainability. Various inefficiencies were identified and recommendations were made to improve the current operation’s effectiveness and factory layout, primarily by decreasing operating inefficiencies. The recommendations were made based on the results of the study and included the expenditure involved in their execution. Financially viable options, calculated using payback periods and net present values (NPV), included the purchase of phased array ultrasonic testing equipment, horizontal SAW for longitudinal flanges and a modular type furnace. Other options, which could improve operations effectiveness, but not returning financially positive results, included the moving of the Hausler roll into the main fabrication workshop and the moving of the Sachems drills to alongside the lathes. A number of new processes and initiatives were recommended, for which cost comparisons to current similar practices could not be performed. These included the full production implementation of the punch through tandem arc submerged arc welding for wind turbine tower manufacture, implementation of a customer interfacing and communication platform and internal communication display boards. Current practises regarding touch time measurements for welding and drilling were validated. By undertaking these recommendations, it was felt that HEV would continue to be wepositioned to capture the predicted ongoing growth in the mining market in which they currently operate, and to fully benefit from the future upturn in the energy market.
Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

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Kelly, Tracey Elizabeth. "Productivity of the Regional Bell Operating Companies Under Rate-of-Return and Price-Cap Regulation." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/36698.

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In 1991, the Federal Communications Commission began regulating the tariffed rates of the nation's largest local exchange carriers under a new regulatory scheme: price-cap regulation. Price caps were intended to "remedy" the ills of traditional rate-of-return regulation. They were to provide incentive for the telephone companies to adopt innovative technology, cost-cutting measures and provide telephone services more efficiently. To test the effectiveness of this incentive, this study examined productivity of the regional Bell operating companies (RBOCs) under both rate-of-return regulation and price-cap regulation. A total factor productivity model was developed and productivity gains were calculated under both regulatory regimes. The assumption of total factor productivity was then relaxed and value-added productivity and labor productivity measures were also examined. The point estimates of productivity gains indicate that price caps have led to greater productivity gains. Although productivity gains varied greatly across individual RBOCs, use of total RBOC data indicated that average productivity gains improved 1.3 percent under price caps using the TFP model. Similar improvements under price caps were estimated using the value-added (1.1 percent) and labor productivity measurements (1.3 percent). However, because of the variability of the annual estimates, none of the productivity improvements are statistically significant. In conclusion, calculations of RBOC productivity gains suggest that price caps have led to more efficient use of inputs--labor; materials, rents and services; and capital--in the production of telephone company output. Yet, the statistical evidence is not strong enough to unequivocally support the assertion that price cap regulation has led to great productivity gains.
Master of Arts

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Melvin, Frank. "The Perceptions of Managers Relating to Subordinate Productivity in Virtual Work Arrangements." ScholarWorks, 2015. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/1226.

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Some managers tend to resist virtual work and find it challenging to manage the productivity of subordinates working virtually. This phenomenological study examined managers' perceptions of subordinate productivity in virtual work arrangements. Adaptive structuration theory and McGregor's X and Y theory guided this study. The primary research questions focused on the managers' perceptions of worker productivity in virtual work arrangements and the related challenges. Data collection included semistructured interviews with 40 business managers responsible for overseeing the productivity of virtual workers. The study was conducted in the Atlanta, Georgia metropolitan area. Utilizing the Stevick'Colaizzi'Keen method of data analysis, 3 primary themes emerged: (a) subordinate productivity was not negatively affected by the use of virtual work arrangements, (b) virtual work arrangements posed challenges for managers responsible for overseeing virtual worker productivity with the lack of face'to'face interaction identified as the most significant, and (c) there was managerial support for the use of virtual work arrangements. Social change implications, given the findings, include an increased awareness of worker productivity in virtual work arrangements, which could lead to increased opportunities for individuals to work in a virtual setting. The increase in virtual work arrangements benefits society by reducing fuel consumption, road congestion, and related pollutants. Organizational leaders can use the findings from the study to develop business strategies to sustain virtual worker productivity and address the related challenges to improve the quality of life for managers of virtual workers.

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Hernandez, Joe Luis. "Impact of corporate casual wear on productivity in the workplace." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1966.

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In today's workplace there are many reasons why businesses are encouraging their workforce to dress in a more casual manner. Personnel within the workforce who dress casually report improvements ranging from morale to customer relations after the implementation of more relaxed dress codes. It will also be necessary to consider whether or not business casual dress facilitates the tearing down of social and communication barriers.

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Haynes, Hylton John Gordon. "Case Studies in Value Improvement in Hardwood Timber Harvesting Operations in the southern Appalachians." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/34818.

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Three independent case studies focused on harvesting operation value improvement:

(1) A productivity study was carried out on a new cable logging operation near Pikeville, Kentucky to document the effect of professional training on production efficiency. The crew received one full week of professional training. Prior to the professional training the productivity of the operation was established at 834 cubic feet per productive machine hour at an average piece size of 54 cubic feet. Two weeks after the training a productivity increase of 218 cubic feet per productive machine hour was established.

(2) A USDA Forest Service stewardship contracting pilot project took place at Burns' Creek, Virginia. Productivity and machine costs for the cable-logging 'swing landing' operation were determined. Stream habitat improvement was achieved through the placement of limestone in the headwaters. The yarder placed 6.21 tons of lime per productive machine hour into the creek at a cost of $53 per ton. Instead of a traditional stumpage sale, timber was merchandized by the Forest Service and stored on the landing for a roadside log sale. Benefits and opportunities for a roadside log sale were identified. Consensus from the consumers at the log-sale was that the potential value of the timber was realized.

(3) The third case study involved the analysis of the value recovered through log-making techniques (bucking) for five logging crews working in Virginia and West Virginia. An average value loss of 22 percent was calculated using the HW-BUCK bucking optimizer software package.

[Vita removed March 2011. GMc]
Master of Science

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38

Buli, Lakew G. "Strategies for Improving Labor Productivity in Construction Companies." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3752.

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Even with advanced technology and new project management methodologies, construction company leaders continue to face challenges to improve labor productivity. This multiple case study was an exploration of the strategies that construction company leaders use to improve labor productivity in Doha, Qatar. The case population consisted of 6 construction company leaders operating in Doha, Qatar, who successfully identified and implemented strategies to improve labor productivity. The conceptual framework for this study was the expectancy theory. The data collection process included semistructured interviews and company documentation. Data were compiled and organized, disassembled into fragments, reassembled into a sequence of groups, and interpreted for meaning. Methodological triangulation and member checking bolstered the trustworthiness of those interpretations. Five themes emerged from these 6 construction company leaders: exploring, identifying, and evaluating issues affecting labor productivity; applying an appropriate leadership style; motivating the workforce; providing training and development; and implementing effective project management processes. By improving labor productivity, similar construction companies can complete construction projects faster and with lower construction costs. The implications for positive social change include the potential to lower construction costs and enable individuals with lower incomes in Doha, Qatar, to afford houses that they could not previously afford.

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Barahona, Jose L. "Maquiladoras in Central America: An Analysis of Workforce Schedule, Productivity and Fatigue." TopSCHOLAR®, 2019. https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/theses/3146.

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Textile factories or Maquiladoras are very abundant and predominant in Central American economies. However, they all do not have the same standardized work schedule or routines. Most of the Maquiladoras only follow schedules and regulations established by the current labor laws without taking into consideration many variables within their organization that could affect their overall performance. As a result, the purpose of the study is to analyze the current working structure of a textile Maquiladora and determine the most suitable schedule that will abide with the current working structure but also increase production levels, employee morale and decrease employee fatigue. A Maquiladora located in el Salvador, C.A. has been chosen for the study. It currently provides finished goods to one of the leading textile industries in the United States of America. The study will consist of collecting production numbers for two of their manufacturing cells for five consecutive days. In addition, a questionnaire will be administered to measure employee fatigue. Once all data have been collected, the data will be analyzed to determine the best working structure that will benefit the employee and the employer.

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40

Gadzo, Adam, and Ardian Gecaj. "Kapacitet och kapacitesplanering i ett kundorderstyrt företag : En fallstudie vid Lindab AB i Götene." Thesis, Högskolan i Skövde, Institutionen för handel och företagande, 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:his:diva-16228.

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Syfte: Syftet med rapporten var att bättre förstå vilka faktorer som har en inverkan på kapacitetsplaneringen samt de metoder som finns att tillgå gällande kapacitetsplanering. Utefter detta formulerades det tre stycken frågeställningar som studien avser att besvara: Vilka metoder inom kapacitetsplaneringen kan tillämpas i ett kundorderstyrt företag? Vad utmärker kapacitetsplaneringen i ett kundorderstyrt företag? Hur kan kapacitetsplaneringen förbättras utifrån fallföretagets nuvarande situation? Metod: För att besvara frågeställningarna och uppfylla studiens syfte valdes det att genomföras en fallstudie på Lindab Götene AB i Götene. Den första frågeställningen besvaras genom att identifiera relevant teori kring kapacitetsplanering och analysera dessa med empirin. Den andra frågan besvaras med hjälp av empirin där en nulägesanalys har genomförts som ger en inblick i fallföretaget samt den informationen om hur kapacitetsplaneringen tillämpas i fallstudieobjektet. Även här analyseras empirin med teorin. Den tredje frågan besvaras utifrån den analys och insamling av empiriskt material i nulägesbeskrivningen för att identifiera vad som kan förbättras angående kapacitetsplaneringen i en kundorderstyrd verksamhet. Den empiriska datan utgjordes utav intervjuer, dokumentstudier och observationer. Slutsats: I dagsläget sker kapacitetsplaneringen för hela företaget, författarna föreslår att fallföretaget tillämpar metoden kapacitetsbehovsprofiler då den möjliggör att planera kapaciteten per avdelning. Vilket skulle kunna ge en bättre uppfattning om hur beläggningen i produktionen ser ut utifrån fallföretagets förutsättningar. Ytterligare rekommendationer är att utföra tidsstudier för att säkerställa att korrekta operationstider finns tillgängliga som kapacitetsplaneringen baseras på för att inte över- eller underskatta graden av kapacitetsbehov. Uppföljning och återkoppling bör även göras för att se hur produktionen ligger till gentemot planeringen för att även skapa ett underlag för eventuella förbättringar som kan utföras, samt att skapa rutiner och se till att dessa följs.
Purpose: The purpose of the report was to achieve a greater understanding over which factors have an impact on capacity planning as well as the methods available regarding capacity planning. Along this, three questions were formulated that the study intends to answer: Which methods within capacity planning can be applied in a customer-managed company? What distinguishes a capacity planning in a customer-managed company? How can capacity planning be improved in the business case based on the current situation? Method: In order to answer the questions and fulfil the purpose of the study, it was decided to conduct a case study at Lindab Götene AB in Götene. The first question is answered by identifying relevant theory about capacity planning and comparing them with empiric materials. The second question is answered with the help of the empirics where a current situation analysis has been conducted that gives an insight into the case company and the information on how capacity planning is applied in the case study. The theoretical and empirical material are analysed as well. The third question is answered on the basis from the analysis and collection of empirical material in the current situation description to identify what can be improved regarding capacity planning in a customer-ordered business. The empirical data consisted of interviews, documentary studies and observations. Conclusion: Today the capacity plan is created for the whole company as one unit, the authors are suggesting that the business case applies the method capacity bills which makes it possible to plan capacity for each division. Thus, creating a better chance of understanding the current situation in the production. Further recommendations are such as conducting time studies to ensure that correct operational times are available which capacity planning is based on, this for not under- or overestimate the need of capacity. Follow-up and feedback should be done to see how the current situation of the production is against the production plan, also to create a ground for potential improvements that can occur. Creating routines and making sure that they are followed.

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Thiman, Filip, and Björkman Jonathan. "Operational excellence through partnering with subcontractors in ground engineering industry." Thesis, KTH, Skolan för industriell teknik och management (ITM), 2019. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-264412.

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Construction in Sweden has got a low productivity compared to other manufacturing industries. The construction industry is deeply fragmented and consists of many small companies. The large construction companies are largely dependent on subcontractors. This paper aims to provide answers to how a larger construction company can handle subcontractors in order to achieve higher productivity. The study is carried out in collaboration with JM Entreprenad AB who are involved in ground engineering and foundation work. The study is divided into two questions are to be answered. 1. What effect can be accomplished trough longer supplier relations with subcontractors? 2. Is there any correlation between the number of suppliers and a projects outcome? The choice of method to answer the first question is a extensive literature study, questionnaire survey, interviews and site visits. The second question is answered though an empirical study based on book documentation of inputs and expenses from projects carried out. Collaborating more closely with selected subcontractors receives support in literature and is in line with accepted production principles and is beneficial for increasing productivity. Areas that would primarily benefit from closer work with subcontractors: • Standardization work. • Eliminate waste and avoid sub-optimization. • Quality control and repeatability. • Counteract ’hostile contracting’ and opportunistic thinking. • Improve experience feedback. It is not possible, in this study, to give a clear answer based on literature findings that the construction industry would benefit from closer cooperation and a defined number of subcontractors. One reason may be the lack of data from projects defined by far-reaching collaborations. There is in this setup no correlation between the number of subcontractors and a project’s wine margin. However, this may depend on how the empirical study was conducted och analyzed.
Byggföretag i Sverige har en låg produktivitet jämfört med andra tillverkande industrier. Byggbranschen är djupt fragmenterad och består av många små företag. De stora byggföretagen är till stor del beroende av underleverantörer. Denna artikel syftar till att ge svar på hur ett större byggföretag kan hantera underleverantörer för att uppnå högre produktivitet. Studien genomförs i samarbete med JM Entreprenad AB som är ett stort svenskt anläggningsföretag. Studien är indelad i två frågor som ska besvaras. 1. Vilken effekt kan uppnås genom längre leverantörsrelationer med underleverantörer? 2. Finns det något samband mellan antalet leverantörer och ett projektresultat? Valet av metod för att besvara den första frågan är en omfattande litteraturstudie, enkätundersökning, intervjuer och platsbesök. Den andra frågan besvaras genom en empirisk studie baserad på dokumentation av inkomster och utgifter från genomförda projekt. Att samarbeta närmare med utvalda underleverantörer får stöd i litteraturen och är i linje med accepterade produktionsprinciper. Områden som främst skulle gynnas av närmare samarbeten med underentreprenörer är: • Standardiseringsarbete. • Undvika slöseri och sub-optimering. • Kvalitetskontroll och repiterbarhet. • Minskat opportunistiskt betende. • Erfarenhetsåterföring. Det är i denna studie inte möjligt att ge ett tydligt svar baserat på litteratur om byggföretag skulle uppnå en högre produktivitet av närmare samarbete med ett definierat antal underleverantörer. En anledning kan vara avsaknad av projektspecifik data från projekt som definerats av långtgående samarbeten. Det finns i detta sätt att mäta ingen korrelation mellan antalet underleverantörer och ett projekts vinmarginal. Detta kan dock bero på hur den empiriska studien genomfördes och analyserades.

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White, Robert. "Employee Engagement Processes and Productivity among Las Vegas Five-Star Hospitality Organizations." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3478.

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Employee disengagement creates an unhealthy working environment. Disengagement rates among Las Vegas hospitality industry organizations led to dissatisfaction among employees and resulted in low productivity and profitability. This qualitative descriptive study involved exploring employee engagement strategies that hospitality industry supervisors and managers used to implement programs, thereby solving the employee engagement problems of their organizations. The conceptual framework for the study was leader-member exchange theory. Twenty participants with 5 or more years of Las Vegas hospitality experience who had already successfully implemented engagement programs answered open-ended questions in semistructured interviews. Company documents constituted an additional data source. Analyzing the data involved triangulation using multiple data sources in identifying themes such as interaction effects of employee engagement programs on employees, mutual respect between leaders and subordinates, and organizational benefits. Better engagement could lead to positive social change through increased job satisfaction and improved customer service, thereby engendering increased social interactions among members of the local community. The former could reduce stress and contribute to the quality of life of community members including the families of the workers.- The latter could lead to greater profits for the employers, thus potentially increasing the tax base in the community.

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Guerra, Nichole. "E-leadership and Leader-Member Exchange Strategies for Increasing Nonprofit Virtual Team Productivity." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/4447.

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Nonprofit leaders often place new employees with little experience in challenging virtual team settings, where they are expected to meet increased service demands. Productivity failures reported in the 2015 State of the Nonprofit Sector survey revealed that 76% of U.S. nonprofit agencies experienced increased demand for services in 2014, while 52% were unable to meet those demands. Based on the e-leadership and leader-member exchange (LMX) theories, the purpose of this descriptive, single case study was to identify the leadership strategies used by nonprofit midlevel supervisors to increase productivity of virtual teams containing new employees in Colorado. A purposeful sampling method facilitated identification of participants who had experience using successful leadership strategies to increase virtual team productivity. Data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews with 6 virtual team leaders and the review of organizational documents that contained weekly, executive leadership minutes over a period of 25 months. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and word frequency searches. Three themes emerged related to increasing virtual team productivity: formal and informal staff support improved productivity, cohesive team dynamics improved productivity, and effective virtual staff mobility facilitated fieldwork. Human service nonprofit leaders who are proficient with virtual team leadership strategies could increase team productivity and meaningfully advance the use of virtual teams across the industry. Increasing nonprofit, virtual team productivity contributes to social change by meeting increased service demands in underserved communities and enhancing nonprofit employees' work experiences for continued support of the nonprofit mission.

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van, Opstal Jonna D. "Analyzing Irrigation District Water Productivity by Benchmarking Current Operations Using Remote Sensing and Simulation of Alternative Water Delivery Scenarios." DigitalCommons@USU, 2016. https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/4920.

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Irrigation systems are designed to deliver water to crops, but their efficacy varies widely due to operational decisions, weather variability, and water availability. The operation of an irrigation system is studied in this dissertation to determine irrigation performance and potential for improvement.Satellite remote-sensing was used to determine inter-annual variability in crop evapotranspiration and link it with weather patterns and operational decisions. A decade was studied to include several dry, wet and average years of snowfall. It was found that the irrigation district has the capacity to buffer a dry year, but crop evapotranspiration patterns indicated that the buffer capacity of the irrigation district is limited in a second dry year. Studying the current operations of an irrigation system also requires an analysis of the spatial variability within the system to identify potential areas for improvement. Achieving such information is challenging due to the spatial heterogeneity between farm fields. The Ador irrigation system simulation model is used in this study with satellite remote sensing data, which were combined in the calibration and validation process to ease the re-adjustment of management parameters. This approach provides a cost-effective and innovative method for model simulation when field observations are limited. Alternative water delivery scenarios were simulated with the Ador irrigation system simulation model to quantify changes in the water balance, irrigation performance, and water productivity. Results for implementing a minimal irrigation time indicated that irrigation events occurred with a higher frequency and reduced crop water stress. Water productivity for the irrigation district increased substantially in this scenario, whilst district water savings were achieved by diverting less irrigation water. Advantages are only achieved if farmers collectively make the decision to change. A water accounting analysis is required to examine if water savings are achieved at basin scale. There is a potential for the rebound effect to occur, which suggests that an increase of water efficiency causes the increase of water consumption. Simulation results indicated that if the efficiency is increased through improvements of the water delivery, the water consumption increased. Water savings achieved by reducing irrigation diversions did not compensate for the decrease in drainage that downstream users depend on.

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Sigala, Marianna. "Assessing the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) on productivity in the hotel sector : an operations management approach." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2002. http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/843411/.

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Although investments in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are continuously increasing, the relationship between ICT and productivity has been very elusive. Indeed, despite the plethora of studies, research findings have always led to contradictory and/or questionable results. This has resulted in the development of a debate around the concept of the so called ICT productivity paradox. Recently, the issue regarding the productivity impact of ICT has been intensified due to the increasing role and penetration of ICT in the economy and their potential to create an equal competing field for all operators. However, it is widely recognised that there is a need to enhance our understanding of how ICT enhances productivity as well as to develop new techniques and methods for measuring, assessing and managing ICT for delivering organisational value. It is the aim of this study to investigate the impact of ICT on productivity by proposing and applying a robust methodology that is argued to overcome the limitations and problems of previous studies. By providing empirical evidence of the critical ICT issues that add organisational value, the research findings have also contributed in the development of a framework for managing ICT, which in turn raises more questions for further research and investigation. The hotel industry is not an exception in such developments. ICT investments are increasing, however research on their impact on hotel productivity is lacking. To that end, the empirical framework of the study is placed within the context of the hotel sector. In particular, a mail survey targeting hotel managers of three star hotels was conducted for gathering data regarding productivity and ICT metrics. The latter were developed after conducting a thorough and systematic review of the literature regarding three core fields: a) productivity; 2) ICT; and 3) Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). The latter is a multivariate statistical technique that was employed for carrying out enhanced statistical analysis of the productivity metrics, which were in turn investigated in their relationship with three ICT metrics. These were; a) type and amount of ICT applications; b) integration of ICT systems; and c) sophistication of use of ICT applications. Overall, 93 usable questionnaires were obtained, which provided the following main findings. Although, a great variety of ICT has been adapted in three star hotel properties, operators are very limited in the way they exploit ICT tools and capabilities for enhancing their productivity. Specifically, very few hotel properties are deploying the networking/integration capabilities of ICT and so limit themselves to automating isolated work tasks and processes. Moreover, a great majority of respondents were found to be at the first stages of ICT implementation meaning that they mainly use ICT for automating their processing and not for exploiting the informational and transformational capabilities of ICT. On the contrary, findings provided evidence that productivity benefits are mainly attributed to ICT integration and sophistication of use rather than simple ICT availability. In this vein, in order to materialise ICT productivity benefits, an integrated approach for managing ICT should be adopted and implemented. Specifically, hotels need to manage and co-ordinate four components namely business processes, information, information systems and information infrastructure.

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Shaw, Derrick Tajuan. "A Quantitative Evaluation of the Productivity of the Mercedes-Benz Production System." ScholarWorks, 2019. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/6668.

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Productivity of automotive manufacturing production systems have been an area of study among researchers since the industrial revolution. Automotive manufacturing production systems that are implemented properly increase productivity in production environments. Researchers have demonstrated that productivity can be improved through modeling the Toyota production system. However, researchers have not established how implementing Mercedes Benz production system (MBPS) impacted Mercedes-Benz cars' productivity between 1999 and 2017. The purpose of this quantitative research study was to examine the effect of implementing the Mercedes-Benz Production System (MBPS). A survey was administered to 35 Mercedes-Benz employees that consisted of operation managers, plant managers, manufacturing engineers, and shop workers. The study used Spearman's correlations to analyze the strength of the associations between the dependent variable of productivity and the three independent variables of cycle-time variation, employee-headcount variation, and key performance indicators. The results showed no statistically significant relationship, supporting that implementing the MBPS was not sufficient enough to reject the null hypothesis the research questions. The social change implications for this research may promote positive social change by its emphasis on the implementation of manufacturing production systems. Such implementations may then stimulate increased economic efficiencies, quality, and profitability for society.

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Gardner, P. J. "The effect of operating parameters and matrix properties on the productivity of an expanded bed adsorption column." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2005. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1444709/.

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Expanded bed adsorption (EBA) combines clarification, concentration and purification into a single processing step reducing processing time and increasing productivity. Much work has been conducted on model proteins but little attention has been paid to the emerging issues of tailoring the operational variables of matrix size, operating flowrate and ligand type so as to maximise process outputs. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of matrix properties and operating parameters on breakthrough behaviour and productivity. Second generation matrices designed to operate at high flowrates were also examined. Operating at low velocities, beds formed from smaller particles had a shallower breakthrough than beds formed from large particles but the latter were more productive. At the higher velocities typically utilised in EBA, the behaviour of beds formed from either small or large particles was comparable in terms of breakthrough with the beds made up of small particles being slightly more productive than those containing large particles. A prototype 2nd generation EBA matrix consisting of a multi-modal ligand that could operate at high conductivity levels typical of fermentation broths was also examined. It was found that the productivity could be increased 5-fold as compared with commercially available matrices, with no loss of yield or purity. Conventional breakthrough curve analysis is not applicable in situations of variable particle size and operating velocity. Results using a novel dimensionless group to facilitate comparison between unlike systems is presented. The thesis presents an analysis of the relative productivity of a range of systems and highlights the gains in terms of productivity to be achieved with the development of 2nd generation EBA multi-modal adsorbents. The thesis concludes with an analysis of the commercial and regulatory aspects of EBA.

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Harrill, Hunter. "Improving Cable Logging Operations for New Zealand’s Steep Terrain Forest Plantations." Thesis, University of Canterbury. Forestry, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10092/9923.

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Cable logging will become more important as harvesting shifts to greater annual proportions on steep terrain in New Zealand. The costs of cable logging are considerably higher than that of conventional ground-based methods. Improving cost-effectiveness has been identified as key to ensuring the forestry industry remains cost competitive in the international market. This thesis focuses on ways to better understand and improve cable logging methods by specifically focusing on rigging configurations. The investigation was conducted through a comprehensive literature review, an industry survey to establish current use and preferences, a Delphi survey with experts to establish actual advantages and disadvantages, scale model testing to establish some fundamental knowledge of tension to deflection relationship, and finally a series of targeted case studies to establish both productivity and skyline tension in actual operations. Each of these aspects of the research topic employed different methodology. The literature review highlighted the most relevant research relating to cable logging world-wide spanning nearly a century. Various research papers, manuals, books and computer software were summarized. While many aspects of cable yarding operations have been investigated, much of it focusing on various aspects of operational efficiency through case studies, there is very limited information with regard to rigging configurations. The survey of 50 cable logging practitioners determined what rigging configurations were commonly used in New Zealand. It includes their perceived advantages and disadvantages for varying levels of deflection, but also for specific scenarios such as pulling away from native forest boundaries and flying logs over a stream. Results showed that there were many conflicting perceptions about rigging configuration options. Using an expert panel, a Delphi process was used to derive consensus on what advantages were truly unique to each configuration. This allowed the longer lists of perceived advantages from the industry survey to be pared down to a concise list of ad/disadvantages that will be used in the updating of the Best Practice Guidelines for Cable Logging. To increase our fundamental understanding of tension / payload / deflection relationships, an experiment was conducted in a controlled environment. Using a model yarder in a lab and continuous tension and video recording devices, the dynamic skyline behavior of three similar configurations were tested: North Bend, South Bend and Block in the Bight. The tensions were compared by use of a two-way analysis of variance, which indicated configuration and choker length were significant variables in some but not all of the dynamic load tests. Results also showed that some configurations performed better than others in minimizing the shock loads due to dropping into full suspension, impact with ground objects, and breakout during bridling. Finally, a series of eight studies were conducted on targeted logging operations where relevant stand and terrain parameters were related to the continuous skyline tension monitoring, and recording of productivity through time study. The three targeted configurations included (1) North Bend, (2) Standing skyline using a motorized slack-pulling carriage and (3) a live skyline using a motorized grapple carriage. Results showed that peak and average tensions, as well as amplification factors and the payload to tension relationship, varied between configurations. The study also showed that tensions could be collected to compute measures of payload and tension efficiency, which provided insight into operational performance. The safe working load was exceeded in 53% of all cycles studied and across seven of eight study sites and 14 of 16 spans. Cycle times were significantly different between rigging configurations and that production information could be used to compute measures of labor and energy consumption as well as payload and tension efficiency; which also provide insight into operational performance. The industry should give serious consideration to the use of tension monitors. Tension monitors have many benefits and have the potential to improve cable logging operations in New Zealand. Monitoring tensions can help one learn new techniques or methods (i.e. rigging configurations), help improve payload analysis software for future planning and help evaluate new technology and machinery.

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Franco, Gilbert Ernest. "Productivity Standards, Marriage and Family Therapist Job Satisfaction, and Turnover Intent." ScholarWorks, 2015. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/461.

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Turnover among mental health professionals is high, which can have a direct impact on access to services and continuity of care. Informed by goal-setting theory, social-cognitive theory, and self-efficacy, this quantitative study investigated how California community mental health agency productivity standards were related to self-efficacy, job satisfaction, and marriage and family therapist (MFT) turnover intent among 141 MFTs. Participants completed a Demographic and Productivity Questionnaire, Job Self-Efficacy Scale, Job Satisfaction Scale, and Turnover Intention Scale. The relationship between participant age, gender, experience, number of work hours, licensure status, and job site with job satisfaction and turnover intent were assessed using hierarchical multiple regression. The results of the study showed that productivity standards positively impacted (i.e. increased) turnover intent and were partially mediated by job self-efficacy and job satisfaction. Additionally, productivity standards negatively impacted job satisfaction, as partially mediated by job self-efficacy. Hours worked per week and gender were also found to impact turnover intent. Licensure status was found to impact job satisfaction. Implications for positive social change include assisting MFT employers in community mental health agencies in designing jobs for providers that promote job satisfaction and reduce turnover intent.

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Ogah, Marvel Saturday. "Productivity and Employee Behavior Change Strategies in Two Nigerian Manufacturing Organizations." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/4878.

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Some Nigerian manufacturing organizations suffer significant losses yearly due to a lack of employee commitment and engagement. The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to gain understanding of the strategies that leaders in the manufacturing industries in Lagos need to know in order to change employee behavior to achieve increased organizational productivity levels. The conceptual framework that grounded the study was the path-goal theory of leadership. Data were collected from semistructured interviews with a purposeful sample consisting of 24 managerial and non-managerial staff members of 2 manufacturing organizations in Nigeria who have had experience in, and training, and education on how to change employee behavior to achieve increased productivity. The interview consisted of open-ended questions. Using Yin's 5 step data analysis process, member checking, and triangulation, 13 themes emerged: motivated employees, productivity, motivation, enabling work environment, transformational leadership style, continuous improvement, unprofitable organization, low capacity utilization, demotivation, dwindling capacity, diversification, capability development, and innovation. Leaders of Nigerian manufacturing organizations may be able to use these emergent themes to develop strategies to increase the productivity of their employees. The potential implications for positive social change stem from Nigerian manufacturing organizational leaders' development of more effective leadership skills, which may contribute to the growth of the Nigerian manufacturing sector and be a viable source of employment creation.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Operation productivity'

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