Dissertation Review

Abstract:

This research article provides valuable insights for practicing engineering managers on improving a firm's performance by applying a knowledge management (KM) based approach to quality management (QM). Traditional quality management systems do not provide sufficient knowledge management and knowledge creation opportunities for manufacturing firms to stay competitive in today's fast paced, unpredictable, complex, and rapidly changing global business environment. The world's body of knowledge does not include a quality management strategy where KM is integrated in QM, and where the effectiveness of such a KM/QM strategy is determined through quantitative empirical research over a defined time frame, thus omitting important performance improvement opportunities for manufacturing firms. The objective in addressing this research topic is to present a KM/QM strategy and to demonstrate its effectiveness. Engineering management areas, such as knowledge management and quality management, are leveraged throughout this research. Systems engineering aspects, such as operational efficiency improvement and system performance, are leveraged by integrating knowledge management and quality management to form an enhanced quality management system. The research demonstrates that a company with a KM/QM strategy is more effective than a company which does not have a KM/QM strategy, that the implementation of a KM/QM strategy contributes to product quality improvements over KM/QM strategy application time, and presents a framework that can be applied by practicing engineering managers.     

An Enterprise-Wide Knowledge Management Approach to Project Management

Abstract

Few research studies investigate the relationship between enterprise knowledge management (KM) and project management (PM). These studies have shown that today’s PM approaches do not sufficiently include the required KM processes to derive the highest value from project investment. This research highlights the potential benefits of implementing an enterprise-wide KM approach to project management. The relationship between the four KM pillars, as defined by Stankosky, and the PM knowledge areas, as defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI), are investigated. A survey questionnaire reveals significant positive relationships between the KM pillars and PM knowledge areas. The significance and the nature of this association support the study’s assertion that the management of projects improves as enterprise-wide KM processes and activities are increasingly used.     

Knowledge context,learning and innovation: an integrating framework

Abstract

In this conceptual paper, we develop a framework which identifies those elements of firms’ knowledge context which are important for innovation, and the mechanisms through which that knowledge impacts on firms’ innovation performance. We make four main contributions to the existing literature. First, our characterisation of knowledge context provides the basis for a more specific identification of which elements of firms’ knowledge environment are important for innovation, discriminating between spatial, sectoral and network influences. Second, we reflect the role of innovation ambition in shaping firms’ knowledge search strategies. Third, we differentiate between firms’ interactive and non-interactive knowledge search activities and recognise that these may be complemented by unanticipated and serendipitous knowledge spillovers. Finally, we employ the notion of encoding capacity to reflect firms’ internal ability to assimilate and apply external knowledge, and clarify its distinctiveness from the more general concept of absorptive capacity. Our framework provides an integrating mechanism for existing empirical studies, and suggests a number of new research directions related to the determinants of innovation performance and the heterogeneity of innovation outcomes.     

Agglomeration and innovation of knowledge intensive business services

ABSTRACT

For some time now, the research focusing on Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS) has been very active. Observing that knowledge as a production factor is only becoming more and more pronounced, this focus is well-grounded. It is therefore important to examine how these knowledge-hubs gain and propagate their knowledge. We hypothesize that KIBS (as many other sectors) benefit from intra-industry knowledge spillovers facilitated by geographical concentration. Our focus is the innovative capacity of KIBS, which we measure through trademarks registered by KIBS firms. While there may be several mechanisms facilitating knowledge spillovers, we can identify local intra-sectoral labor mobility as one. Accessibility measures are used to assess the geographical attenuation of the spillover effects. Results show that the distance decay of spillovers is fast. Only local concentrations of KIBS seem to be of importance. Over longer distances, we instead observe negative consequences for trademarking, indicating possible spatial competition effects.     

How to keep drivers engaged while supervising driving automation? A literature survey and categorisation of six solution areas

Abstract

This work aimed to organise recommendations for keeping people engaged during human supervision of driving automation, encouraging a safe and acceptable introduction of automated driving systems. First, heuristic knowledge of human factors, ergonomics, and psychological theory was used to propose solution areas to human supervisory control problems of sustained attention. Driving and non-driving research examples were drawn to substantiate the solution areas. Automotive manufacturers might (1) avoid this supervisory role altogether, (2) reduce it in objective ways or (3) alter its subjective experiences, (4) utilize conditioning learning principles such as with gamification and/or selection/training techniques, (5) support internal driver cognitive processes and mental models and/or (6) leverage externally situated information regarding relations between the driver, the driving task, and the driving environment. Second, a cross-domain literature survey of influential human-automation interaction research was conducted for how to keep engagement/attention in supervisory control. The solution areas (via numeric theme codes) were found to be reliably applied from independent rater categorisations of research recommendations. Areas (5) and (6) were addressed by around 70% or more of the studies, areas (2) and (4) in around 50% of the studies, and areas (3) and (1) in less than around 20% and 5%, respectively. The present contribution offers a guiding organisational framework towards improving human attention while supervising driving automation.     

Knowledge sharing behaviors in social media

PurposeUsers on Social Media (SM) platforms make many decisions related to content sharing, such as whether to create or reuse content, whether to label for easy access by an interest group or not, and whether to disseminate to targeted individuals or broadcast to general audiences. In this study, we investigated if these content-related strategies on SM, called social media knowledge sharing behaviors, are determined by user characteristics.MethodologyUsing concepts from Self-Motivation Theory and the Affordance Theory, we examined if the knowledge sharing behaviors are influenced or correlated with user characteristics, such as the intensity of engagement on SM, a strong preference attitude for a SM platform, and multiple functional intentions for using SM. Based on this survey study of one hundred and twenty-three subjects, we developed hierarchical regression analyses to test if the SM user's knowledge decisions (Creation, Framing and Targeting) are corelated with the user's online usage intensity, their SM online platform preferences, and their functional intentions (Intensity, Preferences and Functionality). We complemented the regression models with a more comprehensive path analysis for an integrative hypothesis testing.FindingsThe main findings show that knowledge creation and knowledge targeting behaviors were correlated with multiple functional intentions (or needs) of users, meaning that users who utilized SM in order to fulfill many needs create and broadcast knowledge more than users that utilized SM in order to fulfill fewer needs.OriginalityThe study investigates the relationship between detailed knowledge sharing behaviors afforded by the social media tools and different user self-determination factors, such as intensity, preference and needs. This study further describes the attributes of social media sharing as a bundle of content sharing strategies of creation, sharing and targeting, which are used differently based on different user characteristics and motivations.     

The emergence of large-scale logical systems and cognitive ergonomics

With the rapid progress of information technology, the work environments that cognitive ergonomics (CE) should deal with are vastly changing. Among the most important ongoing changes is the emergence of large-scale logical systems. Logical systems are in nature software-based but now grow to be both large-scaled and dynamic, integrating a variety of physical facilities and social mechanisms. The domains include telecommunication and traffic, e-commerce, production control, knowledge management, scheduling and distribution. This paper considers the characteristics of the emerging large-scale logical systems (LLSs) and discusses the ensuing needs that CE has to prepare to meet. As a potential main theme in a generalized system design paradigm, the human-system interaction in the middle abstraction levels is emphasized. The directions of further development of CE to prepare such generalization are accordingly probed. Lastly, it is pointed out that the knowledge society brings the notion of cognitive organization to the attention of CE, with increased complexity in the human part.     

Beyond the joint-venture: knowledge sourcing in Chinese automotive events

Abstract

This article analyses how firms use events and trade fairs for external knowledge sourcing, which barriers emerge and how event organisers strategically mediate and influence those processes. The research setting focuses on two major automotive events in Shanghai, highlighting that knowledge sourcing in these events do complement other types of knowledge accessed in permanent ‘sites’ and organisational configurations, such as in clusters and through joint-ventures. Firms use automotive events to access buzz, to monitor other firms and to explore options for new collaborations. Yet, it is also argued that a focus on existing relations, the defensive strategies deployed by lead firms and the intrinsic complexity of exhibited technologies hinder the process of knowledge sourcing that is influenced by event organisers’ content, matchmaking and access policies.     

Knowledge Bases in Worlds of Production: The Case of the Food Industry

This paper aims to contribute to research on the knowledge dimension of industrial innovation and competitive advantage by combining two conceptual constructs that are applied in growing but separate bodies of research. One, the so-called “SAS model”, regards knowledge bases of firms and distinguishes between Synthetic, Analytical and Symbolic knowledge. The second, the “Worlds of Production” construct, classifies firms according to differences in technologies and markets and outlines four possible action frameworks within which companies operate and innovate. Combining these conceptualizations seems to enrich analyses within both perspectives and provide a useful framework for studies on knowledge dynamics in different economic contexts. Empirical evidence regarding knowledge dynamics of two “alternative food” producers is presented, indicating that symbolic knowledge which in current literature is mainly delimited and described within cultural industries, may also be relevant for other industries such as the alternative food sub-sector.     

‘Signposting’, A Parameter-driven Task-based Model of the Design Process

This paper addresses the need for computer support in aerospace design. A review of current design methodologies and computer support tools is presented, and the need for further support is discussed, with particular reference to the early formative stages of the design process. A parameter-based model of design is proposed, founded on the assumption that a design process can be constructed from a predefined set of tasks. This is supported by knowledge of possible tasks in which the confidence in key design parameters is used as a basis for identifying, or signposting, the next task. A prototype implementation of the signposting model, for use in the design of helicopter rotor blades, is described and results from trials of the tool are presented. Further areas of research are discussed.     

Dynamizing Knowledge Processes Through Actional Intelligence in an Engineering Context

Abstract

Knowledge management and engineering management are closely related. However, the latter has focused primarily in the codification and systemization of knowledge. This article proposes a schema based on organizational learning and cultural values that enhance the latter and aims at explaining how knowledge can be actioned and deployed successfully in an organization. The construct was field tested among the technical staff of a large perfumes firm. This article parts from the influential concept of actionable knowledge introduced by Chris Argyris and his school and follows with subsequently-developed paradigms, such as the knowledge maturity model, organizational competencies, and Actional Intelligence. From a practical point of view, it proposes concrete recommendations for the utilization of knowledge management by engineering managers and fills the cultural and organizational gap of traditional knowledge engineering approaches. Additionally, it aims at contributing to a better understanding of knowledge management systemization and practice. It fills a particular research gap in the state of the art of knowledge management practice, while it suggests a more reasonable and comprehensible focus of knowledge management and a more precise and dynamic perspective to engineering management and knowledge engineering.     

An Empirical Study of Large-Sized Companies With Knowledge Work Teams and Their Impacts on Project Team Performance

Abstract:

This article contributes to how teams comprised mainly of knowledge workers influence project team performance. This article highlights the need to examine knowledge work and knowledge worker teams' impact on performance. Three large-sized companies were investigated through their projects, knowledge work, team environment, and team success. Results showed that the percentage of knowledge workers on a project team and project objectives had positive associations on performance. Exploratory analyses revealed that project team responsibility influenced knowledge worker project team performance as defined by projects schedule, cost, and scope.     

Mechanisms of knowledge degradation in a resource management task ¶

Previous research has focused more on learning relative to forgetting despite both being generally recognized as important human performance issues. This research pursued an improved understanding of variables that impact the effectiveness with which humans can retrieve procedural knowledge, such as mathematics or programming. Two studies reviewed yielded varying results in experiments that investigated factors that can inhibit the retrieval of procedural knowledge from memory. To explore theoretical explanations for the opposing results, 32 human participants performed a resource management task in the multi-attribute task battery (MATB) manipulating task strategy and colour symbology. Human performance resulted in significant interference effects for a switch in strategy, but not with a change in the implicit meaning of colours. Therefore, the participants’ sensitivity to the implicit meaning of visual stimuli was not as significant as a more comprehensive change in rule structure associated with procedural knowledge.     

Physical neuroergonomics: The human brain in control of physical work activities

One of the important functions of the human brain is voluntary control of movements and motor activities combined with perceptual, cognitive and affective processes. This paper introduces the emerging field of study, named hereby as physical neuroergonomics, that focuses on the knowledge of human brain activities in relation to the control and design of physical tasks. Motor, cognitive and emotional aspects and their inter-relationships in connection to physical ergonomics are considered. A review of recent advances in functional electroencephalography (EEG), with special accent on the time domain analyses of the human brain activity in selected motor tasks, is also presented. The reported studies of isometric elbow-flexion contractions confirmed that the cerebral-cortex system controls the extent of muscle activation and is responsible for smoothing out high-speed motor control processes. Furthermore, the emotional attitudes of the subject to the activity can compel performance beyond acceptable loading through psychological pressure or necessity. The discussed results are important to one's understanding of human limitations and capabilities on a variety of physical tasks, and may ultimately help explain the mechanisms of musculoskeletal injuries at work. These results also underscore the need for a novel approach to workplace studies, i.e. neuroergonomics design.     

The cooperative shift change: an illustration using air traffic control

We define the cooperative shift change and consider it from the perspective of four phases identified in Grusenmeyer (International Journal of Human Factors in Manufacturing, 5, 163–176, 1995): end-of-shift, arrival, meeting, and taking post. We describe the differences expected for the phases for both outgoing and incoming operators, discuss various domains that differ in their shift-change profile, and consider why those profile differences obtain. With this framework as a backdrop, we explore in detail the shift change, or position relief briefing (PRB), of air traffic control. This theoretical framework has the potential to aid in the classification and comparison of the transfer of responsibility in a variety of industrial tasks. This study could aid in the implementation of changes for air traffic control PRBs.     

The estimation and application of surface energy data for powdered systems

Abstract

Estimates of surface energies of powders can be obtained by use of contact angle data, or by use of thermodynamic parameters (e.g. calorimetric determinations). In this review, the applications of surface energy data are considered in both a pragmatic manner, which could be applied directly to the formulation and production environment, and also in a manner that could aid fundamental research into both the understanding of mechanisms by which wetting is achieved and the ways in which wetting contributes to processes such as dissolution. The approaches, which are introduced and considered, centre around spreading coefficients and compensation analysis.     

Titania/carbon nanotube composite (TiO2/CNT) and its application for removal of organic pollutants

This review aimed to highlight recent development in the preparation of titania/carbon nanotube composite (TiO₂/CNT) and its application for the removal of organic pollutants in aqueous solution. Current studies indicate that the composite can enhance the absorption of visible light compared with pure TiO₂. Generally, synergistic effects were observed for the degradation of some dyes, phenols, and benzene derivatives. The role of CNTs in the composite was explained to function as a support material, concentrate organic pollutants on the composite surface and more importantly, to extend electron–hole (e–h) recombination time as electron scavenger. However, opposite effects were observed for the degradation of some pharmaceuticals (e.g., carbamazepine and diclofenac). Despite different mechanisms involved, most organic pollutants can be photocatalytically degraded within a few minutes or hours. The summarized results and raised issues in this review will attract more future research for this new photocatalyst, particularly in areas such as synthesis methods, degradation mechanisms, and performance for more diversified structures of organic compounds.     

An integrative model of autonomous agent teammate-likeness

ABSTRACT

Advancements in autonomy are beginning to allow humans to partner with machines in order to accomplish work tasks in various settings. As human–agent teaming (HAT) becomes more prevalent as a research topic, the need to understand humans’ psychological perceptions of the machine partner is increasingly important, especially in terms of its perceived role, which may ultimately impact trust and team effectiveness. Specifically, it remains unclear how humans perceive intelligent agents and how consistent these perceptions are with existing taxonomies found in the psychology of teams. The present paper presents a definition of the construct of autonomous agent teammate-likeness (AAT) and a conceptual model of its components, reviews related concepts and germane research and proffers a number of propositions to guide future research. The goal is to contribute to the nascent literature on HAT by establishing a theoretical foundation for the AAT construct, upon which researchers can advance research on HAT.     

Statistical transfer learning: A review and some extensions to statistical process control

ABSTRACT

The rapid development of information technology, together with advances in sensory and data acquisition techniques, has led to the increasing necessity of handling datasets from multiple domains. In recent years, transfer learning has emerged as an effective framework for tackling related tasks in target domains by transferring previously-acquired knowledge from source domains. Statistical models and methodologies are widely involved in transfer learning and play a critical role, which, however, has not been emphasized in most surveys of transfer learning. In this article, we conduct a comprehensive literature review on statistical transfer learning, i.e., transfer learning techniques with a focus on statistical models and statistical methodologies, demonstrating how statistics can be used in transfer learning. In addition, we highlight opportunities for the use of statistical transfer learning to improve statistical process control and quality control. Several potential future issues in statistical transfer learning are discussed.     

Continuance in online participation following the compromise of older adults’ identity information: a literature review

ABSTRACT

This paper presents findings from a literature review on older adults continued use of the Internet following an identity theft incident. Globally, identity theft is increasing, statistics show that the number of older adults falling victim to identity theft is growing. Victims of identity theft suffer emotional, physical, psychological, and social problems; many change their behaviour as a result. The aim of the review was to examine literature to determine what is known regarding how older adults use the Internet and/or modify their online behaviour following an identity theft event. It was found that knowledge is lacking regarding the impact that identity theft events have on older adults’ continuation of Internet use. Little research has been undertaken to understand the factors and interrelationships that contribute to the situation. The review highlights that a systems ergonomics approach should be considered as an appropriate framework to drive future research in this area.