Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Strategic action'
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Anthony, Tom. "Self-motivated composition of strategic action policies." Thesis, University of Hertfordshire, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/2299/21088.
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In the last 50 years computers have made dramatic progress in their capabilities, but at the same time their failings have demonstrated that we, as designers, do not yet understand the nature of intelligence. Chess playing, for example, was long offered up as an example of the unassailability of the human mind to Artificial Intelligence, but now a chess engine on a smartphone can beat a grandmaster. Yet, at the same time, computers struggle to beat amateur players in simpler games, such as Stratego, where sheer processing power cannot substitute for a lack of deeper understanding. The task of developing that deeper understanding is overwhelming, and has previously been underestimated. There are many threads and all must be investigated. This dissertation explores one of those threads, namely asking the question "How might an artificial agent decide on a sensible course of action, without being told what to do?". To this end, this research builds upon empowerment, a universal utility which provides an entirely general method for allowing an agent to measure the preferability of one state over another. Empowerment requires no explicit goals, and instead favours states that maximise an agent's control over its environment. Several extensions to the empowerment framework are proposed, which drastically increase the array of scenarios to which it can be applied, and allow it to evaluate actions in addition to states. These extensions are motivated by concepts such as bounded rationality, sub-goals, and anticipated future utility. In addition, the novel concept of strategic affinity is proposed as a general method for measuring the strategic similarity between two (or more) potential sequences of actions. It does this in a general fashion, by examining how similar the distribution of future possible states would be in the case of enacting either sequence. This allows an agent to group action sequences, even in an unknown task space, into 'strategies'. Strategic affinity is combined with the empowerment extensions to form soft-horizon empowerment, which is capable of composing action policies in a variety of unknown scenarios. A Pac-Man-inspired prey game and the Gambler's Problem are used to demonstrate this selfmotivated action selection, and a Sokoban inspired box-pushing scenario is used to highlight the capability to pick strategically diverse actions. The culmination of this is that soft-horizon empowerment demonstrates a variety of 'intuitive' behaviours, which are not dissimilar to what we might expect a human to try. This line of thinking demonstrates compelling results, and it is suggested there are a couple of avenues for immediate further research. One of the most promising of these would be applying the self-motivated methodology and strategic affinity method to a wider range of scenarios, with a view to developing improved heuristic approximations that generate similar results. A goal of replicating similar results, whilst reducing the computational overhead, could help drive an improved understanding of how we may get closer to replicating a human-like approach.
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Jonasse, Richard Jacob. "Making sense : geographic technologies, planning, and strategic action /." Diss., Connect to a 24 p. preview or request complete full text in PDF format. Access restricted to UC campuses, 2001. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ucsd/fullcit?p3013700.
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Kulik, Brian W. "Strategic action and executive behavior : an agent-based simulation." Online access for everyone, 2006. http://www.dissertations.wsu.edu/Dissertations/Fall2006/B_Kulik_091506.pdf.
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Morrow, Judith Elaine. "Strategic/ecostructural family therapy, a therapy of social action." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp04/mq23433.pdf.
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Blumenkehl, Roberth, Fredrik Magnfält, and Marcus Törnblom. "Strategic thinking of Swedish TV production companies : How do they cope with change?" Thesis, Internationella Handelshögskolan, Högskolan i Jönköping, IHH, ESOL (Entrepreneurship, Strategy, Organization, Leadership), 2011. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-15236.
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The Swedish TV production is facing great challenges today and actors on the market have to strategize to cope with these changes. This thesis explores what strategies are used, how they are formed, and what parameters are focused on when analyzing the market and industry, from a company perspective. Consequently, the purpose of this thesis is to investigate how Swedish TV production companies think strategically to cope with emerging market changes. The method used to collect data was semi-structured interviews. In order to retrieve ac-curate and reliable information we conducted four interviews. Three of these interviews were done with actors within the market. To ensure an accurate market picture, with high trustworthiness, we interviewed one large, one medium and one small company. Finally, we interviewed an independent market consultant, who provided an additional perspective. After having analyzed the material from each interview we later on com-pared the findings in a cross case analysis, in order to draw general conclusions. Our research and findings indicate that Swedish TV production companies mainly keep track of social trends, industry demand, the factors of the SWOT analysis, and the bar-gaining power of buyers in order to plan and form their strategies. Additionally, our findings indicate that Swedish TV production companies mainly use: a differentiation strategy and international strategic alliances. Moreover, we have also found that if Swe-dish TV production companies belong to an international conglomerate, they use this to their advantage.
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Matisová, Monika. "Návrh implementace metody Balanced Scorecard v podmínkách ČD, a.s." Master's thesis, Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta podnikatelská, 2012. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-223558.
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The Master’s thesis deals with the evaluation of performance in the company ČD, a.s. by using the Balanced Scorecard method. The theoretical part of thesis describes the Balanced Scorecard concept and the process for its implementation. The next part of thesis evaluates the current situation of the company by using selected analytical methods. Based on the results of analysis is created a proposal for implementation of the BSC method for the analysed company. The final part of thesis summarizes possible risks and expected benefits of this concept.
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Kiil, Bjarne. "Strategic thinking and action in context : the case of EMBRA." Thesis, Brunel University, 1996. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.314042.
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Anderson, Kevin R. "Links in the chain : African American ideology and strategic action /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2004. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3137673.
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Gomez, Ricardo. "Strategic action in EU foreign policy : the Euro-Mediterranean partnership." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 1999. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/1611/.
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Tomalová, Veronika. "Hodnocení výkonnosti společnosti Slovácké strojírny, a. s. s využitím metody Balanced Scorecard." Master's thesis, Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta podnikatelská, 2015. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-225122.
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This master´s thesis deals with the performance evaluation of the company Slovácké strojírny, a. s. using Balanced Scorecard approach and proposes the implementation of this method in the company. A proposed concept of the Balanced Scorecard is based on the strategic and financial analysis, through which the future performance of the company will be evaluated. The thesis specifies the strategic targets for each perspective of the concept, assigns financial and non-financial measures for individual targets, determines target value, intends strategic actions, identifies risks and evaluates the benefits of the implementation of the Balanced Scorecard concept into the company.
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Loza, Aguirre Edison Fernando. "Enabling adoption decision-making for strategic scanning." Thesis, Université Grenoble Alpes (ComUE), 2015. http://www.theses.fr/2015GREAG003/document.
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En réponse à une demande institutionnelle, réorientée par les conclusions d'une étude exploratoire et confirmée par une revue de littérature, cette thèse cherche à répondre à la question de recherche suivante : comment rendre possible la prise de décision d'adopter une veille stratégique (VS) ? Ce travail suit un modèle multipapier dans lequel chaque étude contribue à répondre à la question de recherche principale. Notre première étude (chapitre 2) nous a permis de comprendre que les pressions institutionnelles ont une influence sur la décision mentale d'adopter ou pas une VS. Les chapitres 3 et 4 ont contribué à essayer et à améliorer une méthode de ciblage permettant d'identifier les besoins en information pour la VS. En outre, ces améliorations ont permis l'introduction de deux nouveaux concepts pour aider les praticiens à identifier leurs priorités pour faire de la VS. Les deux études sont fortement liées. Le troisième chapitre contribue à identifier les parties prenantes et les thèmes susceptibles de représenter les besoins d'information des gestionnaires dans un contexte spécifique. Le chapitre 4 reprend ces éléments et les combine avec des considérations temporelles et une autoévaluation de capacité d'anticipation dans un système type salle de réunion avec le but de faciliter le ciblage et d'identifier les priorités pour la VS. Dans le chapitre 5, nous avons étudié les interactions dans les réunions collectives de ciblage afin de comprendre la contribution de ces activités au développement de la capacité d'absorption organisationnelle. Nos travaux ont permis d'identifier les thèmes à négocier afin de faciliter l'activité de ciblage et de produire des résultats qui représentent les besoins d'information de l'organisation dans son ensemble. Enfin, nous présentons nos contributions théoriques, à la recherche, et à la pratiqueThis dissertation addresses the question of how to enable decision-making to adopt Strategic Scanning (S.Scan). This work was motivated by an institutional request, reoriented by the findings from our exploratory study and supported by literature lack. This document follows a multi-paper model in which each connected study contributes to answer our main research inquiry. Our first study, Chapter 2, allowed us to understand that institutional pressures have an influence into the mental adoption of S.Scan. Chapter 3 and 4 focus into trial and allow the improvement of Target method aiding the identification of information needs for S.Scan. In addition, these improvements let to introduce two new concepts to S.Scan, helping practitioners identify their scan priorities. These studies are strongly linked, on one side, Chapter 3 contributes to identify the stakeholders and topics likely to represent information needs for managers in a particular context; on the other side, Chapter 4 combines the previous information with temporal considerations and a self-perceived anticipatory capacity within a meeting room system with the aim to facilitate S.Scan targeting and identifying scan priorities. In Chapter 5, we studied the interactions in collective targeting meetings in order to understand the contributions of such activities to develop organizational absorptive capacity. This work allowed the understanding of the main themes to be negotiated in order to ease the activity of targeting and to produce results, which represent the information needs of the organization as a whole. Finally, we present our: theoretical, research, and practice contributions
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Su, Guangya [Verfasser]. "Strategic action fields for German companies in demographic shift / Guangya Su." Ulm : Universität Ulm, 2019. http://d-nb.info/117662993X/34.
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Yamaguchi, Yukikazu. "Local Strategic Partnerships in London : an investigation of local collaborative action." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2008. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1445189/.
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Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) are the main vehicle of "A New Commitment to Neighbourhood Renewal", which is a key programme for improving deprived areas in England. LSPs were set up to establish inclusive, collaborative and strategic approach at the local level. The main tasks of LSPs are to establish the Community Strategy, the Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy and the areas of allocation of the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund with aims of reflecting local needs are for neighbourhood renewals. Because LSP consists of various stakeholders in various policy areas at different administrative levels, it would be difficult to reach agreements among them and to produce tangible output. This thesis explores preconditions of the LSPs approaches, two-way communications for formulating strategies, reaching consensus between members of LSPs and reflecting local needs to such strategies, and contributions to local communities. Then, it discusses what forces determine styles of operation of LSPs, why LSPs encounter difficulties in discussions in the decision making process and why LSPs have difficulties in shaping strategies of the partners' organisations. Firstly, this thesis develops a new evaluation framework for the strategies-making programme and public participation programmes, which may find practical use, based on the literature reviews of both academic research papers and government guidance on participative planning approach. Secondly, through reviews of government guidance on LSP approaches, this thesis established hypotheses for resolving the above mentioned questions by considering the new evaluation framework. Thirdly, in order to verify hypotheses, it uses the results of a questionnaire survey, a one-year observation of the board meetings, and an interview survey which examines the ways that the process operated for the strategy-making in four LSPs in inner London boroughs namely, Camden, Hackney, Lambeth and Wandsworth. It concludes by discussing to extent which LSPs achieve involvement and success in shaping the strategies of the partners.
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Cohn, Gary David. "An analysis of school district strategic planning relationships with school action planning /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/7658.
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Turonytė, Lina. "Lietuvos Respublikos Vidaus reikalų ministerijos strateginis veiklos planavimas." Master's thesis, Lithuanian Academic Libraries Network (LABT), 2008. http://vddb.library.lt/obj/LT-eLABa-0001:E.02~2007~D_20080128_112334-58384.
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Išanalizavus Lietuvos strateginio planavimo raidą, strateginį planavimą reglamentuojančius teisės aktus, atlikus Vidaus reikalų ministerijos 2007–2009 m. strateginio veiklos plano analizę ir atsižvelgiant į atliktą tyrimą galima pateikti išvadas, į kurias galėtų atsižvelgti strateginį planavimą vykdančios ir diegiančios valstybės institucijos bei tobulinant Strateginio planavimo metodiką. Institucijos, rengdamos strateginį veiklos planą, turi tinkamai įvertinti turimus išteklius, išanalizuoti išorinę ir vidinę aplinką, suvokti grėsmes, galimybes, stiprybes ir silpnybes, sugebėti tinkamai parengti strateginį veiklos planą ir jį įgyvendinti, analizuoti ir sugebėti taikyti užsienio šalių patirtį strateginio planavimo srityje.
Pirmame darbo skyriuje nagrinėjama Lietuvos strateginio planavimo raida, aptariamos problemos, su kuriomis buvo susiduriama diegiant strateginį planavimą, analizuojami Strateginio planavimo metodikos pokyčiai.
Antrame skyriuje analizuojama, ar Vidaus reikalų ministerijoje efektyviai vykdomas strateginis veiklos planavimas bei tinkamai parengtas strateginis veiklos planas, kaip vykdoma stebėsena ir atsiskaitymas už rezultatus, analizuojama, ar strateginis veiklos planavimas vykdomas vadovaujantis metodika.
Trečiame skyriuje apibendrinami atlikto tyrimo metu gauti rezultatas, įvardijamos problemos ir didžiausią įtaką turintys veiksniai įtakojantys strateginį veiklos planavimą.
Pabaigoje apibendrinamos išvados ir pateikiami pasiūlymai strateginio planavimo... [toliau žr. visą tekstą]Having analysed the development of the Lithuanian strategic planning and the legislation regulating strategic planning, having analysed the strategic action plan of the Ministry of the Interior for 2007–2009 and taking into account the study performed it is possible to draw conclusions that could be taken into account by agencies which carry out and develop strategic planning, as well as to improve the Strategic planning methodology. Agencies which draft their strategic action plan have to properly assess their resources, analyse external and internal conditions, realise threats, opportunities strengths, and weaknesses, be able to properly draft strategic action plan and carry it out, analyse and apply best practices of foreign countries in the sphere of strategic planning. Initial section of the thesis analyse development of the Lithuanian strategic planning, discusses the issues that have been faced in implementing strategic planning, analyses changes to Strategic planning methodologies. The seconde chapter assesses whether the Ministry of the Interior is carrying out an effective strategic planning and whether it has a proper strategic action plan, how monitoring and reporting is done, analyses whether strategic action planning is based on Strategic planning methodology. The third chapter summarises results obtained during the study, issues and factors with greatest influence are brought forward. The thesis ends with conclusions and suggestions for improvement of strategic... [to full text]
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Liu, De Min. "Building an organisational learning architecture for strategic renewal an autoethnography of action learning /." Swinburne Research Bank, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/67317.
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Thesis (PhD) - Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship, Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology, 2009.A thesis is submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology - 2009. Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (p. 225-238)
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Steen, John T. "Actor-networks in the resource-based view of strategic management /." St. Lucia, Qld, 2003. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe17674.pdf.
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Jones, Margaret A. "Postsecular rapprochement : a strategic model for church engagement in a postwelfare, post-regeneration age." Thesis, University of Chester, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10034/621043.
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Since the global financial crisis of 2008-9 and the deficit reduction measures introduced by the British government from 2011, a new strategic deinstitutionalized model of community engagement has begun to emerge to address issues of social justice and environmental concern. Cloke (2011) identifies this new space of engagement as ‘rapprochement’. This research develops this concept, arguing that this organic, radical, social enterprise form of partnership offers the Established Church1 a potential means to engage in community-based social action in a postwelfare, post-regeneration age. A redistribution of power that seeks to enable agency and release enterprise, innovation and hope is at the heart of this new community-based model of partnership. These innovative enterprises are particularly evident in inner urban areas, although it is a model also appropriate for suburban and rural communities. This fresh model of partnership is a consequence of a developing nexus between rapprochement and austerity. Rapprochement emerges in what Habermas (2001 onwards) identifies as the postsecular. This acknowledges that religion, despite expectations to the contrary (Wilson 1982; Bruce 2002), continues to have a significant role in the public square. The global financial crisis and austerity measures imposed by the last two governments (2010-2015; 2015-2017) reflect a neo-liberal ideology leaving those least able to cope increasingly vulnerable and in need of support. A hermeneutic ethnographic approach accesses the experiences of leaders engaged in public, private and third sector organizations in a time of on-going austerity and considers their knowledge and understanding of partnership working. Data consists of 14 interviews and is triangulated with participant observation in two partnerships identified as examples of rapprochement. Case study helps clarify understandings of this new form of partnership. Dynamics characterizing these organic partnerships include a deep respect for hermeneutical integrity; a desire to create a sense of place, rather than space; a transformative form of hospitality and a style of leadership that enables the different stakeholders to acquire and develop a sense of agency. Innovative frameworks clarifying these dynamics include ideas of postsecularity, progressive localism, smart pluralism, and enablement. Alongside terms like personal responsibility, passion and vision, usual in partnership vocabulary, the research uncovered a more nuanced and sophisticated lexicon. This includes terms such as autonomy, brokering and process enablers. Rapprochement primarily encapsulates a person’s love for their neighbour. Those engaged in these partnerships practise a welcome engendering inclusivity, which offers a fresh theological understanding of hospitality. It also suggests a distinct theological understanding of leadership, espousing a model that draws others in, helping them to discover their gifts and constantly expanding and sharing leadership. This strategic deinstitutionalized model of partnership offers the Established Church an opportunity to join with others and to show, through praxis and community engagement, God’s bias for the poor and his longing for their enablement.
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Cadden, Trevor. "The influence of organisational culture on strategic supply chain relationship success : symbiosis in action." Thesis, University of Ulster, 2013. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.625506.
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The thesis critically appraises the author's published works, whilst also attempting to demonstrate originality, rigour, significance, and coherence throughout. The papers enclosed (both core and supporting) represent a critical evaluation of the authors work over the past eight years. In that time, 14 pieces of work have been published in high quality journals, or disseminated at peer reviewed conferences. Outlined below are the thesis aim and objectives, followed by the research context and key contributions as they unfolded and developed during the authors research . Research Aim and Objectives The overarching aim of this thesis is to summarise the author's contribution to knowledge in the area of inter-organisational relationships through published works, specifically focusing on the influence of organisational culture in achieving and sustaining improved buyer supplier performance outcomes along the supply chain.
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Gentle, Paul Nicholas. "Action learning as a tool for strategic leadership in higher education : an empirical study." Thesis, n.p, 2007. http://ethos.bl.uk/.
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Al-Roomy, Muhammad. "An action research study of collaborative strategic reading in English with Saudi medical students." Thesis, University of Sussex, 2013. http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/46830/.
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This is an investigative action research study on ways of improving the reading comprehension skills of Arabic medical school students. The study first analysed the difficulties of teaching and learning English and reading in English in a Saudi university medical college. An intervention was planned and implemented based on Collaborative Strategic Reading (CSR –Klingner and Vaughn, 1996). This involved using group work to teach explicitly a set of reading strategies to a class of students who had failed their first year examinations. The process and outcomes of this intervention were analysed through mainly qualitative research methods including: semi-structured interviews which were audio taped to explore students' reading habits, field notes and video and audio taped observations to examine students' interactions while reading, the results of the reading comprehension test taken at the end of the course, and a questionnaire of students' perceptions completed after implementing collaborative strategic reading. The results of the first action research cycle suggested that CSR had enabled these students to improve their reading comprehension considerably. However, the analysis also revealed some issues about the group work on which this was based, suggesting that improved interaction in groups might enable students to make better use of the CSR strategies. A second cycle of action research, this time with a different class of first year students, was therefore enacted including group work training using the idea of exploratory talk (Mercer 2000) alongside CSR to help students to think more critically and constructively. Analyses revealed significant findings. First, CSR had a positive improvement on students' learning by boosting their learning strategies. Second, students were able to build on the structure of CSR and gained other collaborative skills. Third, students reported positive feedback about CSR and its strategies and changed their views about group work and its efficacy in the classroom. Moreover, when CSR was combined with exploratory talk the group work became more critical and productive. However, analysis of data from group work transcripts suggested that Mercer's typology, developed with British children, may not be so useful for Arabian students working with English as a foreign language. The sociolinguistic context means that a different typology is required and the thesis suggests one appropriate to Saudi students who are studying English for a specific academic and professional purpose. The findings offer a framework for developing reading comprehension through group work and combining it with exploratory talk. The thesis has implications for those in similar contexts to the research site and makes some practical recommendations. It also raises questions about conducting action research in this context and engages with micro and macro political issues related to the purpose of teaching and learning English in the college and how they limit teaching and learning practices.
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French, Erica. "Strategic Equity Management in the Australian Private Sector." Queensland University of Technology, 2003. http://eprints.qut.edu.au/15887/.
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Developing equitable practices that provide fair access for all individuals to the benefits and burdens within an organisation remains a dilemma for management both in policy and practice. Research continues to show that the employment status and representation of women is significantly less in relation to those of men. Conflicting arguments on the causes of disparity and competing ideals on the value and means for addressing the disparity have resulted in a number of different opinions on the implementation and practice of equity management. This dissertation contributes to the current knowledge of equity management, exploring contemporary equity management strategies, identifying the approaches of its implementation and analysing these against the outcomes for the status of women's employment. The equity management practices of more that 1900 Australian Private Sector organisations are explored in order to identify the common themes of equity management. Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factory Analysis are used to analyse the data. A model of strategic equity management practice was developed that identifies different structures, strategies and distribution principles designed to address the disparity between men and women. A major aim of this thesis was to explore the ability of a typological theory of equity management approaches to account for the differences in the status of women's employment. The thesis proposes a typology of equity management approaches that explain the implementation of equity management strategies based on structure and process. Four ideal-typical equity management approaches to achieving workplace parity are identified and explored. The traditional (non-compliance), anti-discrimination, affirmative action and gender diversity approaches proposed inform the a priori Cluster Analysis process that grouped Australian organisations based on their use of the approaches to equity management. Significant numbers of Australian organisations were identified utilising each of the identified approaches to equity management. It was further proposed that the different equity management approaches would be predictors of different outcomes for the employment status of women. MANCOVA was used to analyse the equity management approaches (as the independent variables) and the data on the status of women's employment (as the dependent variables). The findings indicate that the different approaches to equity management are predictors of different outcomes for the employment status of women. Results show that the traditional approach to equity management, which includes the use of none of the equity management strategies identified, is not a predictor of increases in any of the employment measures of women. The anti-discrimination approach, which includes the use of a limited number of equity management strategies identified, is a predictor of increases in some of the employment measures of women. The affirmative action approach to equity management, which includes the use of a number of proactive equity management strategies identified, is a predictor of increases in the employment status of women across a number of measures. The gender diversity approach to equity management, which includes the use of all the equity management strategies identified, is a limited predictor of increases in the employment status of women across some of the measures of employment. Managing the equity process within organisations is increasingly identified as an important tool in managing human resources in competitive, global environments that require productive workers and quality outputs. If equity management is to provide an effective means of addressing disparity between men and women in organisations, this thesis argues for the development of a strategic process to address the specific issues of disparity and the particular needs of the individual and the explicit goals of the organisation in equal opportunity.
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Sissing, Donovan. "Information technology architecture and related strategic factors supporting business advantage." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2007. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_1476_1255527907.
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Information Technology (IT) architecture is not restricted to technology, but may also address the views of business activities
their processes
data sets and information flows
applications and software
and technology. The objective of this study is to understand the role of IT Architecture and related factors that support competitive business advantage. This study investigates the null hypothesis: IT architecture enhances the competitive advantage of business. This study sets out to explore IT architecture and strategic factorsthat support business advantage. The study findings indicated that business advantage is supported by a sound architecture, by IT and business alignmentand by the enablers of organisations..."
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Du, Toit Mattheus Johannes. "The establishment, through action research, of an appropriate strategic ICT planning process for the South African Department of Defence as a diversified organisation." Thesis, Pretoria : [s.n.], 2008. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-08082008-125042.
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Parkinson, Neil. "Navigating Stremes. Conceptualising, Activating, and Legitimising Strategic Change within BBC International News." Thesis, University of Bradford, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10454/7230.
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This thesis considers strategic change from the novel perspective of a manager practically ‘activating’ it within a complex organisation. It involved 18 months of action research and participant observation within BBC Global News, where joint processes were developed across two converging businesses. A journal was maintained of meetings and events, access was granted to internal documentation, and 12 interviews were conducted. One contribution of this thesis is a new conceptualisation of the developing elements of organisational strategic posture and related environmental events as ‘stremes’: strategic memes representing relevant subsystems, ideas, and subcultures. The posture is depicted as a construction of multiple voices, often combining, sometimes clashing, as ideas compete for legitimacy. This allows the practitioner outlook to be presented through three linked perspectives. A ‘process’ approach maps the unfolding streme system; a ‘people’ approach considers the building of consensus to legitimise stremes; and a ‘practice’ approach considers the efficacy of action research in helping to craft change. It is found that not only do the actions of people shape the streme network; the complex, interdependent network also partially shapes their actions. This research builds on previous work on strategic change, but provides new narrative insight from a practitioner’s outlook. It also created ‘practical knowledge’, since many outputs of the process were implemented within the BBC, and may have relevance elsewhere.
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Eriksson, Joel, Niclas Krantz, and Jonas Ivarsson. "The strategic path in a creative start-up process : Action research within the fashion industry." Thesis, Jönköping University, JIBS, Business Administration, 2006. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-322.
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Attwell, Anthony. "Sanctions and power in school : Habermas' communicative and strategic action categories applied in educational research." Thesis, University of Southampton, 1991. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.293401.
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Broman, Matilda. "Taking advantage of institutional possibilities and network opportunities : analyzing Swedish strategic action in EU negotiations /." Lund : Department of Political Science, Lund University, 2008. http://www.svet.lu.se/Fulltext/Matilda_broman.pdf.
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Craig, Alexander, Katja Macura, and Giancarlo Pucci. "Purposeful Action : organizational practices that contribute to a culture of strategic decision making for sustainability." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Sektionen för ingenjörsvetenskap, 2012. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-3473.
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Current methods for reaching and defining success in society are not sustainable. A major shift in society’s definition of economic success is required, and organizations represent a key leverage point in the transition to a sustainable economy. This research looks to practices within organizations with a sustainability purpose in an attempt to understand how their organizational culture creates an environment for continual strategic decision making towards sustainability. A combination of literature review and structured interviews were used to elicit the cultural practices of 18 organizations with a clear social and ecological sustainability purpose. The research confirmed the importance of organizational culture for maintaining alignment with a sustainability purpose by fostering motivation and commitment towards sustainability at both a collective and individual level in the organization. Eight overarching areas of practice were identified as being present in the organizations included in the study. The practices identified help organizations to act strategically and in the right direction towards sustainability on a daily basis, standing as a complement to the strategic prioritization model of the FSSD.giancarlo@pucci.cr
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Tejay, Gurvirender. "Shaping Strategic Information Systems Security Initiatives in Organizations." VCU Scholars Compass, 2008. http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/1576.
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Strategic information systems security initiatives have seldom been successful. The increasing complexity of the business environment in which organizational security must be operationalized presents challenges. There has also been a problem with understanding the patterns of interactions among stakeholders that lead to instituting such an initiative. The overall aim of this research is to enhance understanding of the issues and concerns in shaping strategic information systems security initiative. To be successful, a proper undertaking of the content, context and process of the formulation and institutionalization of a security initiative is essential. It is also important to align the interconnections between these three key components. In conducting the argument, this dissertation analyzes information systems security initiatives in two large government organizations – Information Technology Agency and Department of Transportation. The research methodology adopts an interpretive approach of inquiry. Findings from the case studies show that the strategic security initiative should be harmonious with the cultural continuity of an organization rather than significantly changing the existing opportunity and constraint structures. The development of security cultural resources like security policy may be used as a tool for propagating a secure view of the social world. For secure organizational transformation, one must consider the organizational security structure, knowledgeability of agents in perceiving secure organizational posture, and global security catalysts (such as establishing trust relations and security related institutional reflexivity). The inquiry indicates that strategic security change would be successful in an organization if developed and implemented in a brief yet quantum leap adopting an emergent security strategy in congruence with organizational security values.
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Nelson, David, and Renée Lazarowich. "Health and Strategic Sustainability : Business to Business." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Avdelningen för maskinteknik, 2005. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-4027.
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This is a study of how businesses might influence other businesses to move towards sustainability. Two health club businesses in North America actively participated and were selected because of their private ownership structureand their similar size and services. One health club had significant experience with working towards sustainability, and the other had little or no such experience. This is a descriptive study that applied an Active Research model in which researchers andbusiness management teams all actively participated. Five cycles of learning and adaptation are documented, including three work sessionsand initial and final interviews. Data from these five cycles were analysed to assess changes in perceptions of and knowledge about sustainability in business. We have concluded that the least experienced health club demonstrated sound increases in their knowledge and perception about sustainability. In addition, itis actively considering implementing select practices in itsfacilities that represent movement towards sustainability. The club with significant sustainability experience did not demonstrate increased knowledge or perceptions about sustainability, but did perceive value in the business-to-business sustainability discussions.Contact information: David Nelson: nelso213 (at) umn.edu, Renée Lazarowich: renee_lazarowich (at) yahoo.com
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Oliveira, Luís Fernando Fonseca de. "Gestão de riscos estratégicos : action research numa empresa de tecnologias de informação." Master's thesis, Instituto Superior de Economia e Gestão, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10400.5/6239.
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Mestrado em Gestão e Estratégia IndustrialObjetivo da investigação: Este estudo pretende determinar de que forma a gestão dos riscos estratégicos e o planeamento estratégico e controlo de gestão podem ser integrados, de forma a contribuir para a sustentabilidade e criação de valor nas organizações. Metodologia: A investigação baseou-se na realização de action research numa empresa de média dimensão que atua na área das TIC. Os resultados foram obtidos através de um processo iterativo, baseado na análise da teoria disponível sobre gestão estratégica e gestão de risco, realização de experiências e reflexão sobre os resultados obtidos. Resultados: Os riscos estratégicos foram definidos como os riscos internos ou externos, que podem ocorrer tanto na definição como na implementação da estratégia e com potencial para alterar significativamente a posição competitiva da organização. Do estudo resultou um modelo conceptual de integração dos processos de gestão dos riscos estratégicos e de planeamento estratégico e controlo de gestão. O modelo sugere que a incorporação de sistemas de controlo especialmente dedicados à gestão da incerteza promove a antecipação estratégica, a aprendizagem e o aparecimento de estratégias emergentes. Implicações teóricas: Os resultados obtidos são de natureza qualitativa e baseados numa investigação conduzida numa organização singular. A generalidade do modelo proposto pode ser testada com a realização de estudos de caso de aplicação noutras organizações. Originalidade: O estudo explicita uma forma clara de integrar a gestão estratégica com a gestão dos riscos estratégicos, consubstanciada num modelo conceptual.
Purpose: The aim of this study is to ascertain how strategic planning and management control can be integrated with the management of strategic risks in order to contribute to value creation and the sustainability of organizations. Methodology: The research was conducted by doing action research in a medium-sized ICT company. The results were achieved through an iterative process of studying the available theory on strategic management and risk management, conducting experiments and reflecting on the results. Results: Strategic risks are defined as internal or external risks that can occur both in strategy formulation and strategy implementation and which have the potential to significantly alter the competitive position of the organization. A conceptual model for integrating the management of strategic risks with strategic planning and management control is suggested. We find that the incorporation of control systems designed to specifically manage uncertainty promotes strategic anticipation, learning and the emergence of new strategies. Theoretical implications: The results are based on research conducted in a single organization and are qualitative in nature. Case studies can be conducted in other organizations to test the generality of the results. Originality: The new conceptual model offers a clear way to integrate strategic planning and control with the management of strategic risks.
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Hershey, J. H. "Implementing MAPP (Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships) in the New River Valley, Virginia: A Planning Approach to Improve the Community's Health and Quality of Life through Mobilized Partnerships and Strategic Action." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/26705.
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The present study implemented Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP), a comprehensive, multi-component, strategic planning model and tool, in the New River Valley (NRV), Virginia to mobilize the NRV community to improve its own health status and the quality of life of its residents. The current mixed methods study represents one of the first to utilize MAPP in southwest Virginia and Virginia and is the most comprehensive community health needs assessment and strategic planning effort to date in the NRV. Through MAPP, the NRV community strived to determine the most effective ways to achieve optimal community health by considering its unique circumstances and needs, prioritizing public health system issues, identifying resources, and then developing integrated plans and forming effective partnerships for strategic action. The NRV MAPP process provided a solid framework for creating a community-driven needs assessment and strategic planning approach and initiative that brought together diverse public, private, non-profit, and voluntary organizations/agencies, businesses, faith communities, academia, local government, community members, and others who shared the commitment to and had a role in the NRV communityâ s health and overall well-being. The current study also reviews the specific findings, summarizes the benefits and successes, and highlights lessons learned (including challenges and limitations) from the NRV MAPP experience, as well as makes recommendations for current practice and future research. Additionally, it provides a step-by-step overview of the entire MAPP process for potential users as applied to a real-world community, specifically the NRV.Ph. D.
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Soysal, Begum. "The Contribution Of Strategic Spatial Planning To The Establishment Of Democratic Governance Structures." Thesis, METU, 2008. http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/2/12610301/index.pdf.
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This thesis aims to search the contribution of strategic spatial planning to the establishment of democratic governance structures. Within this aimit discusses strategic spatial planning with respect to its procedural and organizational characteristics and the notion of governance with respect to the issue of participatory democracy. Additionally
it argues that strategic spatial planning includes some conditions including that enhance the development of democratic governance. In doing these
it both covers a theoretical framework and a case study. In the theoretical framework
it encompasses the traditional and contemporary planning approaches in a comparative way and it studies the circumstances that have triggered the emergence of contemporary planning approaches by concentrating on the notions of democracy, participation and dialogue. The theoretical part also discusses the democracy models with respect to different participation patterns, the characteristics of strategic planning and different models of governance. Within these issues
on the theoretical ground, the study presents the components of strategic spatial planning, participation, dialogue and action which enhance the emergence of democratic governance mechanisms. In the case study part
Ankara Strategic Spatial Planning Experience is presented by an insider&rsquo
s point of view by extracting the theory from within the practice. The case study assesses each phase of the planning process within a consideration of the notions of participation, dialogue and action and in the context of organizational structure, dialogical process and action plans. In addition to all
this study embraces action research approach since it has been the research methodology implemented in the case which has fostered the formation of democratic governance mechanisms. The study assesses strategic spatial planning as an interactive approach which challenges participatory democracy while contributing to the emerging governance structures in space. The theoretical research and the case study analysis shows that strategic spatial planning approach enhances the establishment of democratic organizational structures, dialogical processes and inter-institutional relations. Also, the application of a strategic spatial planning approach in Ankara Strategic Spatial Planning Process has triggered cooperation among different governmental and sectoral levels and different spatial scales. Additionally, it has reinforced the construction of social and political capacities of stakeholders. The participatory practice that strategic spatial planning has yielded has had an integrative effect for the organizational structure in space. In conclusion, as the result of broad participation and establishment of dialogical processes, Ankara strategic spatial planning process served as an integrating device for the development of inter-sectoral and inter-institutional relations within dialogue and collaboration among actors. Thereby, as a result of the theoretical research and the case study it is concluded that strategic spatial planning approaches are likely to foster the establishment of democratic governance structures. However
there are some local circumstances that may affect the strategic spatial planning processes to develop an effective organizational structure. The local circumstances including lack of participation culture, active citizenry, the bureaucratic structure, the existing political structure in the locality are some significant factors that affect the process. Hence
this thesis argues that strategic spatial planning processes embrace prominent conditions including
participation, dialogue and action that have an important affect on the formation of democratic governance structures. Nevertheless, the local circumstances have an important weight on the process and its expected results.
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Koch, Sofi. "STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT IN CLIMATE ACTION PLANS – A CASE STUDY OF COPENHAGEN AND STOCKHOLM." Thesis, Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för geovetenskaper, 2021. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-447999.
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This study explored how social aspects for stakeholder engagement are being addressed and incorporated in climate action plans (CAPs). This focus was chosen to address the knowledge gap in research on social conditions for climate action which has been found to provide barriers to achieving deep decarbonisation. The thesis conducted a case study of two cities, Copenhagen (Denmark) and Stockholm (Sweden). Each city’s CAP was analysed through a thematic document analysis that explored through what measures each city aim to achieve stakeholder engagement for local climate action. Five overarching themes were identified through a literature review and used as an analysis framework: citizen engagement, private sector engagement, stakeholder collaboration, awareness development and advocacy. For both CAPs, the results showed an extensive variation for measures that contributed to each theme. The main findings were that measures should focus on developing collaborations, partnerships, networks, knowledge, awareness, skills, green procurement policies and stricter environmental regulations to support the level of stakeholder engagement needed for deep decarbonisation. Also, to focus on advocation measures, as well as measures aimed at developing knowledge and support to accelerate systematic change. In addition, it was found that cities need to focus on ensuring higher levels of equity and formalize extended citizen involvement for more inclusive and fair transitions. Findings also highlighted similarities and differences between the two CAPs, what lessons could be learned from these and connected these findings to how climate action could be further developed.
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Kotíková, Martina. "Hodnocení výkonnosti podniku." Master's thesis, Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta podnikatelská, 2017. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-318287.
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This master s thesis deals with the performance evaluation of the company Agrochov Jezernice a.s. using Balanced Scorecard approach for increasing performance. This thesis consists of the theoretical part with detailed company introduction and its activities as well as strategic and financial analysis on the basis of which it was possible to set the Balanced Scorecard proposal to develop the company's performance. assessment and prepare the overall implementation proposal.
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Tomaštík, Filip. "Vybrané postupy a metody vedoucí k rozpoznání rizik vybraného subjektu podnikajícího v oblasti služeb." Master's thesis, Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Ústav soudního inženýrství, 2019. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-402660.
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The thesis deals with strategic and financial analysis in the company Účetnictví a daně OSNOVA, s.r.o. It is divided into four parts. In the first part, the thesis deals with the theoretical basis according to the literature. The analytical part introduces the company. In the practical part, strategic and financial analyzes are performed. In the last part, conclusion and suggestions, concrete measures to reduce the value of risks resulting from the performed analyzes are then discussed.
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Gabrielsson, Åke, and Margareta Paulsson. "Individ och agentskap i strategiska processer : En syntetisk och handlingslogisk ansats." Doctoral thesis, Umeå universitet, Företagsekonomi, 2004. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:umu:diva-414.
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Even if strategy research often assumes that strategies are the result of intentional and purposeful behaviour the individual and human agency have tended to be neglected. Few empirical studies focus on how the individuals, their conceptions and actions interact with strategy formation. Based on ideas from process research and critical realism we made a review of the research and we maintain that the bulk of the research is based on simplified assumptions. We therefore propose a supplementary socio-cognitive approach based on more realistic assumptions, a synthesis and action logic approach, emphasising the individuals, the leading team and their embeddedness. In a process study with a comparative case study design we followed, in real time for about a decade, strategy formation processes in intermediate organisation in local economic development. Various methods of data collection and analysis were combined. By laying bare some of the mechanisms that explain the outcome in four processes we demonstrate the use of the proposed approach. A theoretical construction, the agent´s strategic concepts of action (SCA), aims at capturing the conceptions as an expression of the individual frame of reference providing reasons for action. The SCA carries explanatory power and is significant for both the process and content of the strategies. A typology of the SCAs is developed. The composition, the interaction and the structure of the team are other central aspects. We conclude that a strong group well suited to lead a formation process include a proactive strategist with a strategic idea and social capability; the role constellation is differentiated, and supplementary and other strategic actors relate to the strategy and the contextual roots in a way that will support the strategy. We also demonstrate in which circumstances some cognitive, social and political mechanisms discussed in earlier research are activated.
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Ferreira, Edilton Teixeira. "Turning threats into opportunities: an analysis of strategies for deployment of an Internet service." Universidade Federal do CearÃ, 2005. http://www.teses.ufc.br/tde_busca/arquivo.php?codArquivo=3622.
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The present work search to evaluate strategic actions of implantation of the service of Public Access to Internet adopted by the Brazilian Company of Mail and Telegraphs - ECT to the light of the theoretical revision about formulation of strategies protected for several studious authors of the subject. Customers, managers of agencies of ECT and technicians of the area of computer science of the company were interviewed, to understand the threats and opportunities that the internet can make possible and which the possible managerial strategies that the Mail could adopt to create opportunities, being followed theoretical models that turn on the subject. Electric outlet of strategic decision is the central object of that dissertation, the study of strategic actions for application of that new service of access terminal to the internet intended by the Mail, it finds in the several strategic models presented by some authors as Porter, Mintzberg, among other, some resonance that guides your development and application better. The study is limited to the strategic analysis of the use of the new service as competitive advantage for the company, have seen, that the research demonstrated that there is field for installation of the service, transforming the possible threat of the internet for the conventional mail in opportunity for a company of correspondencesO presente trabalho busca avaliar aÃÃes estratÃgicas de implantaÃÃo do serviÃo de Acesso PÃblico à Internet adotadas pela Empresa Brasileira de Correios e TelÃgrafos â ECT à luz da revisÃo teÃrica sobre formulaÃÃo de estratÃgias defendida por vÃrios autores estudiosos do assunto. Foram entrevistados clientes, gerentes de agÃncias da ECT e tÃcnicos da Ãrea de informÃtica da empresa, para compreender as ameaÃas e oportunidades que a internet pode possibilitar e quais as possÃveis estratÃgias empresariais que os Correios poderiam adotar para potencializar as oportunidades, seguindo-se modelos teÃricos que versam sobre o assunto. Tomada de decisÃo estratÃgica à o objeto central dessa dissertaÃÃo, o estudo de aÃÃes estratÃgicas para aplicaÃÃo desse novo serviÃo de terminal de acesso à internet pretendido pelos Correios, encontra nos diversos modelos estratÃgicos apresentados por alguns autores como Porter, Mintzberg, dentre outros, alguma ressonÃncia que oriente melhor seu desenvolvimento e aplicaÃÃo. O estudo està limitado à anÃlise estratÃgica do uso do novo serviÃo como vantagem competitiva para a empresa, haja vista, que a pesquisa demonstrou que hà campo para implementaÃÃo do serviÃo em pauta, transformando a possÃvel ameaÃa da internet para o correio convencional em oportunidade para uma empresa de correspondÃncias
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Malenfant, Kara Josephine. "Understanding Faculty Perceptions of the Future: Action Research for Academic Librarians." Antioch University / OhioLINK, 2011. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1317308285.
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Gao, L. "Getting from managerial framing to employee action in strategic change : a case study of a sales automation and transformation programme." Thesis, Nottingham Trent University, 2016. http://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28324/.
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In contemporary organisations the evolution of technology and increased competition has accentuated the need for strategic imperatives to ensure that the traditional sales organisation is transformed from tactical management of sales transactions to the strategic management of complex strategic customer portfolios and customer relationship for a company’s long-term growth (Olson et al., 2001; Piercy and Lane, 2005). How management can ensure a successful shift from the conventional sales philosophy to the strategic one is a challenge in many sales organisations. In this case study of a sales organisation in a multinational company, an examination is undertaken of a strategic transformation that involves a new sales philosophy and the associated sales force automation (SFA) system. Such transformation calls for the sales organisation to shift from tactical and transactional-based selling approach to strategic value creation-based practices. The transition is necessarily supported by SFA system implementation, to which the adoption is invariably hampered by an alarming rate of failures (Bush et al., 2005). So what can be done to ensure a successful shift from the current sales philosophy to the new one supported by the new SFA system? How can management purposely shape the interpretations of the organisation's environment in order that employees understand and 'enact' strategic change (Daft and Weick, 1984; Reger et al., 1994)? In order to explore these questions, a social interactionist (Goffman, 1974) methodological approach is taken to examine the meanings inherent in individual and collective interactions and negotiations. The concept of framing is utilised as an analytical lens to understand strategic changes (Kaplan, 2008) occurring within the case study. Whilst framing as a conceptual bridge linking social psychological and resource mobilization has been researched in social movement participation (Snow et al., 1986; Benford, 1993; Benford and Snow,2000; Reber and Berger, 2005), little progress has been made using such micro-level analysis in understanding mobilizing strategic change in sales organisation in a theoretically informed and empirically grounded fashion. The overarching aims of this study are therefore to provide a deeper understanding of how management frame such strategic changes in sales philosophy and how the resulting frames are accepted or otherwise in a sales workforce automation and transformation programme. Applying a framing concept to the analysis of strategic change within the organisation enables us to move away from viewing organisation as a static entity or a fixed structure (Putnam and Nicotera, 2009) and get into the minds of management and employees to understand the internal struggles that are taking place. Most importantly, in this study, as compared to previous works using framing theory to interpret strategic decision making (Kaplan, 2008), this research goes beyond analyzing individual framing practices of key organisational decision makers (senior management) to study how cognitive frames can shape strategic objectives by framing messages to other organisational actors (sales employees) who are required to adopt the intended strategic change. By analysing both managerial framing practice and employee frame alignment as well as the degree of collective action mobilization (Klandermans, 1984), it offers a complete picture of how strategically inclined managers try to change the organisation status quo and how they employ various managerial framing practices to gain support for transformational change of sales philosophy. At the same time, it provides an account of how employees respond to strategic frame alignment process, such that they either accept the frames and take collective action accordingly or partially accept them and take deferred action or passively participate. The primary contributions of this study to framing theory are: first of all, it advances Kaplan’s (2008) original framing contest theory by demonstrating collective action frames are not static characterizations but can be changed or redefined with purposeful managerial framing and reframing. The framing outcome been focused in this research is employee’s collective action which is a step further from meaning construction in strategic decision making as in Kaplan’s (2008) research. Secondly, while Kaplan (2008) demonstrated how different organization actors attempt to make their frame resonate and mobilize action in their favour, this research focuses on the interplay between management and employees who have unequal access to organization resources due to organization hierarchy. It shows that despite of the differences, employees are not mere recipient of managerial framing whose only role is to respond (or not) to the framed meanings. Instead, their subsequent reactions to managerial framing shape collective action frame and the resulted action. Finally, it confirms the distinction between consensus mobilization and action mobilization (Klandermans, 1984) which separates management’s focus of convincing and activating, and shows how resonance of legitimacy and motivation frames are both necessary conditions for employee action mobilization. This research also contributes to strategic change studies by showing what constitutes effective managerial framing practices to enable strategic change in sales organisations with a theoretical framework that demonstrates how managerial frames are introduced, contested and aligned or partially aligned and the resulting employee participation level. Such a theoretical framework is both empirically informed and practically useful for strategic change practitioners as it delineates factors that determine effectiveness of management’s framing efforts in mobilizing employees for action thus help them to evaluate and predict the effectiveness of managerial framing effort and possible outcomes. Finally, this research contributes to sales technology literature by providing a better understanding of how technological frames affect SFA adoption by sales workforce and how management can strategically frame SFA and its value to achieve desired results.
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Wälitalo, Lisa. "Introductory methodological support for cross-sectoral municipal and regional strategic work for sustainability." Licentiate thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Institutionen för strategisk hållbar utveckling, 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-20579.
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Municipal and regional actors, and in particular their respective governments, have key roles to play for society’s transition to sustainability, and many good efforts have been made. However, co-creating sustainable visions and effective governance towards such visions is a complex challenge and an overarching systems perspective is often lacking in the decision making. This is an often-forgotten piece in the sustainability discourse, which risks leading to ’solutions’ in one area that cause problems in another area. This, in turn, risks leading to unnecessary goal-conflicts, sub-optimizations, and slow progress. Despite good insights and actions on sub-parts of the sustainability challenge, capacity to coordinate efforts across sectors is generally missing. The overarching aim of this work was therefore to explore how practitioners, not the least leaders, in municipalities and regions can be sufficiently supported in their missions to enhance cross-sectoral strategic work for sustainability. The overall pursuit of this aim was undertaken through an action research approach with seven Swedish municipalities, two Swedish regions and one Finnish region. Initially, practitioners’ perspectives of what hinders effective sustainability transitions in their municipalities or regions were investigated through focus group discussions. In addition to many specific, context dependent barriers, a prevailing blindness to barriers that are directly linked to a lack of a sufficiently large systems perspective was found. Most of the action research was about testing an existing preliminary implementation model for multi-stakeholder co-creation and co-learning for strategic sustainable development. The model was evaluated in terms of strengths, weaknesses, barriers and enablers through observations, dialogues, round table discussions and a survey. The preliminary implementation model was generally appreciated by practitioners and was generally considered to fill its purpose. However, a need for additional support was pointed out, to assist continued work with the model in the absence of external expert facilitators. A key element of the asked-for support was ways to involve and engage top leaders into active participation already upfront. An approach to achieve this was explored in one of the participating municipalities. This included an initial assessment of current work and existing steering systems and their alignment with the preliminary implementation model, followed by a focus group discussion with political and administrative leaders. In combination with a comprehensive understanding of barriers to effective sustainability transitions, the result from the testing of the preliminary implementation model and the approach to engaging leaders have laid a foundation for methodological support for cross-sectoral municipal and regional strategic work for sustainability.
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Commendatore, Pasquale, Ingrid Kubin, Spiros Bougheas, Alan Kirman, Michael Kopel, and Gian Italo Bischi. "Introduction." Springer International Publishing AG, 2017. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-65627-4_1.
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This collected volume gives a concise account of the most relevant scientific results of the COST Action IS1104 "The EU in the new complex geography of economic systems: models, tools and policy evaluation", a four-year project supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology). It is divided into three parts reflecting the different
perspectives under which complex spatial economic systems have been studied: (i) the Macro perspective looks at the interactions among international or regional trading partners; (ii) the Meso perspective considers
the functioning of (financial, labour) markets as social network structures; and, finally, (iii) the Micro perspective focuses on the strategic choices of single firms and households. This Volume points also at
open issues to be addressed in future research.
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Hickman, Kevin D. "Forgetting correctly : the Air Force and strategic adjustment /." Maxwell AFB, Ala. : School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, 2008. https://www.afresearch.org/skins/rims/display.aspx?moduleid=be0e99f3-fc56-4ccb-8dfe-670c0822a153&mode=user&action=downloadpaper&objectid=94c8a741-7fa1-48d1-be05-bc957154b815&rs=PublishedSearch.
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Björkman, Hans. "Learning from members : tools for strategic positioning and service innovation in trade unions." Doctoral thesis, Handelshögskolan i Stockholm, Programmet Människa och Organisation (PMO), 2005. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hhs:diva-530.
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The formal governance structure is more complex in trade unions than in many other organizations. Trade union researchers have drawn attention to the tensions between union administrative and representative systems and the fact that control in unions is bi-directional from leaders to members (through formal control systems), and from members to leaders (through democratic structures). This study has shown that the utilization of market orientation methods has the capacity to strengthen the administrative system without interfering with or being hindered by the representative system. The findings related to market orientation methods presented in this thesis are not of such a character that they can be deemed to be specific for trade unions. Therefore, as a general rule, market orientation methods need no trade union-specific adaptation to be utilized. The setting for this study is Sif, a major industrial white-collar trade union in Sweden. The change process of Sif described in the thesis suggests an increased degree of market orientation. The study has focused on two specific tools/techniques; The Sif Barometer - an annual membership satisfaction survey, and The Design Dialogue Methodology – an internally developed group interview method. These methods have contributed to an enhanced level of market orientation. Propositions for better contributions to strategic positioning and service innovation are presented in terms of design principles. An identified problem is that the potential for double-loop learning has been limited in the organization. Some propositions for enhancing double-loop learning are set out: Knowledge enhances learning: the utilization of market information requires knowledge among managers and employees about the instruments used to ensure accurate interpretations and utilization of the results acquired. Knowledge thus has a role in breaking down the barriers preventing accurate utilization of market information. Task alignment is a viable strategy for the creation of learning micro-climates: Learning through the change of work behaviors is the core element of a task alignment strategy. Task alignment is a strategy targeting learning capabilities in the organization that is not only an approach for solving problems in the long term, but also an immediate response to tangible business problems. Action research may contribute to double-loop learning: The action research method has inherent change properties connected to its "learning by change" approach. Actors should consider the discrepancies between espoused theories and theories-in-use: Various political behaviors hampering double-loop learning have been traced. A broad level of participation and involvement of managers and employees during the development or adaptation of the market orientation instrument can enable open and trustful discussions for enhancing double-loop learning.Diss. Stockholm : Handelshögskolan, 2005
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Dahl, Rebecca, Larysa Metanchuk, and Steve Marshall. "Engaging Action : A Systemic Approach to Communication Design of Social Marketing Campaigns for Behaviour Adoption." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Sektionen för ingenjörsvetenskap, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-4206.
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Shifting towards sustainability in environmental, social and economic systems is an urgent concern for society today. In order to contribute to this, the thesis focuses on behaviour orientated social marketing campaigns, which can complement the broader changes required. This study adds knowledge to communication design for social marketing campaigns to improve the conversion of information to action helping move society towards a more sustainable future. Results, drawn from the literature, case studies and interviews, demonstrated the need for a shared vision, detailed knowledge of both the audience and behaviour, development of a network to support the campaign and better use of behavioural psychology and social media. Overall it was found that a more strategic approach is needed during the design and implementation of social marketing campaigns. The Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development (FSSD) was used to structure findings and provide context for campaigners. In practice the FSSD would be used to inform The Strategic Planning Process (SPP), proposed for development of social marketing campaigns that move society towards sustainability.
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Walker, Beverly C. "An action research study of strategy implementation in a not-for-profit community organisation." Monash University, Dept. of Management, 2004. http://arrow.monash.edu.au/hdl/1959.1/5186.
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Meeks, Thomas B. ""Postmodern combat airlift" : a strategic assessment of intratheater airlift /." Maxwell AFB, Ala. : School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, 2008. https://www.afresearch.org/skins/rims/display.aspx?moduleid=be0e99f3-fc56-4ccb-8dfe-670c0822a153&mode=user&action=downloadpaper&objectid=9f9d0e34-b316-436d-9176-e228f207543d&rs=PublishedSearch.
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Lukšienė, Liudmila. "Strateginio valdymo principų taikymas švietimo įstaigose." Master's thesis, Lithuanian Academic Libraries Network (LABT), 2013. http://vddb.laba.lt/obj/LT-eLABa-0001:E.02~2013~D_20130802_111626-73329.
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Darbo tema: Strateginio valdymo principų taikymas švietimo įstaigose. Šio darbo tikslas – įvertinti strateginio valdymo principų realizavimo Švenčionių rajono bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose situaciją, pateikti išvadas ir pasiūlymus dėl strateginio valdymo bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose tobulinimo
Tyrimo problema: Problema yra tai, kad strateginio valdymo tobulinimo ir įgyvendinimo svarba tiek viešojo tiek privataus sektorių institucijose akcentuojama kaip būtinas veiksnys siekiant aukštesnio žmonių pragyvenimo lygio, mokslo ir technikos pažangos, demokratijos ir visokeriopos pažangos vystymo, tačiau praktikoje strateginio valdymo principai organizacijose yra įgyvendinami tik iš dalies, nuolat susiduriama su įvairiomis kliūtimis. Apie strateginio valdymo principų realizavimą Lietuvos bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose nėra paskelbtų tyrimų, tai apsprendžia pasirinktos temos naujumą.
Tyrimo uždaviniai: 1. Atskleisti strateginio valdymo sampratą. 2. Aptarti strateginio valdymo principų pritaikomumą švietimo įstaigose. 3. Įvertinti strateginio valdymo principų realizavimą Lietuvos švietimo įstaigose teoriniu aspektu. 4. Ištirti strateginio valdymo principų taikymą Švenčionių rajono bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose. 5. Pateikti strateginio valdymo tobulinimo bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose galimybes.
Tiriamųjų kontingentas:
Tyrimas buvo atliekamas devyniose Švenčionių rajono bendrojo lavinimo mokyklose, bei penkiose institucijose, kurios yra mokyklų socialiniai partneriai. tyrimo metodas – anketinė... [toliau žr. visą tekstą]The aim of this work is to assess the the realization of strategic management principles in Švenčionys district general education schools, to present the conclusions and proposals for the development of strategic management in general education schools. The issue raised in this research is the importance of strategic management development and implementation, both in public and in private sectors, which is emphasized as an essential factor in achieving a higher standard of living for progress of people, science and technology. However, democracy and progress in every development, practicing the principles of strategic management in organizations, are done only in part, and they are constantly faced with different obstacles. There are no published studies about the realization of strategic management principles in Lithuanian schools, which is why this fact reveals the novelty of the given subject. Research objectives: 1. To reveal the strategic management concept. 2. To discuss the applicability of strategic management principles in educational institutions. 3. To evaluate the realization of strategic management principles in Lithuanian educational institutions by theoretical aspect. 4. To investigate the application of strategic management principles in Švenčionys district general education schools. 5. To present the possibilities of strategic management development in general education. The contingent of the exploratory: The research was conducted in nine schools in... [to full text]
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Healey, Gerard Patrick, and Gerard healey@arup com au. "Fostering technologies for sustainability: Improving Strategic Niche Management as a guide for action using a case study of wind power in Australia." RMIT University. Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, 2008. http://adt.lib.rmit.edu.au/adt/public/adt-VIT20080731.141738.
Full textAbstract:
Society is making increasing efforts to become more sustainable by fostering new technologies such as renewable energy. Often, there are significant challenges to introducing new technologies because existing infrastructure, institutions, social groupings, and behaviours have co-evolved with and consequently support incumbent technologies - a condition known as lock-in. To support efforts to introduce new technologies, researchers have developed conceptual frameworks that aim to increase our understanding of socio-technical change. One promising framework is Strategic Niche Management (SNM); however despite its strength as an ex post analytical tool, SNM has yet to be used to guide experiments with new technologies. This thesis aims to make SNM more usable for those introducing new technologies by responding to four weaknesses identified in existing literature: a weak link between the conceptual framework and action, the vague role of actors, an inadequate appreciation of issues of consensus and limits of influence, and an inadequate appreciation of the challenges that actors may face. This is achieved by identifying promising insights and testing them on a case study of wind power in Australia. The literature review identifies dynamics that have been linked to positive feedbacks in the development of new technologies and socio-technical change. These are: stimulating demand, increasing use, learning and articulation, increasing functionality, decreasing costs, decreasing uncertainty, embedding and alignment, increasing legitimacy, attracting actors, and strengthening expectations and visions. These dynamics can be used to provide a better link between theory and action. The review also identifies particular actor roles - such as niche manager, macro actor, prime mover, and dedicated network builder - and actions that actors in these roles may take. These roles and actions are linked to the dynamics. Also reviewed are issues related to consensus and limits of influence; a particularly useful concept in this regard is resource interdependency. Finally, the review identifies challenges to encouraging the dynamics aimed at helping actors to anticipate problems in the introduction of new technologies. T he relevance of this approach and applicability of these insights are tested with a case study of wind power in Australia. The case study explains changes related to grid-connected wind power in Australia between about 1997 and 2007. There was significant socio-technical change: for example, installed grid-connected wind farm capacity grew from about 1 MW to almost 900 MW, an industry and industry association formed, there were unprecedented changes in energy policy, new high-level actor groups formed to oversee the grid-integration of wind power, Governments amended planning schemes, and public opinion was increasingly articulated. The dynamics identified in the literature review were all relevant to wind power. The study provides examples of the actors that can encourage these dynamics and how they might do so. Most challenges identified in the literature review were relevant to wind power and possible strategies for managing them were identified. Also revealed were challenges in transitional strategies, legitimacy of the technology and consensus. These findings are discussed in detail. These findings are intended to help actors foster technologies for sustainability.