Human Systems Management - Volume 25, issue 1

Authors: de Man, Reinier | Burns, Tom R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper outlines a multi-level approach to sustainable business development. It builds on the notion that contemporary production systems are extensive, increasingly global in their reach. National government regulation is not feasible in many cases. Attempts to nationally regulate against non-sustainable production and business practices may even result in World Trade Organization (WTO) action against improper trade barriers. And, obviously, there is no international government with proper legislative and regulatory powers. Starting with the concept of supply chain, we describe and analyze the emerging practice of forming business partnerships for sustainability. The conceptualization is illustrated with a number of current …examples. Problems and potentialities are discussed briefly in a concluding discussion. Show more

Keywords: Sustainability, supply chains, partnerships, self-regulation, multi-level approach

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25101

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 1-12, 2006

Authors: Assimakopoulos, Nikitas A. | Riggas, Anastasios N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The starting point for establishing a Virtual Enterprise is a set of existing enterprises which might contribute with some of their functionalities (core competencies) to the formation of the virtual entity. The most important issue, in this formation, is the rapid integration of the business processes of the participating companies. The architecture of the VE must assist companies desiring to enter into a virtual relationship by defining the functions and interfaces of critical business processes, thus allowing for a more rapid and efficient integration of the expertise which will be contributed by each partner in the virtual enterprise. While the …integration of computer and communication technologies are no doubt critical issues, the successful attainment of the business goals of the virtual enterprise often depends on its ability to align the business processes and practices of partner enterprises. Focus of this paper, is the presentation of Structured System Dynamics (SSPS) multi-methodology for the design and the evaluation of a Virtual Enterprise Architecture. SSPS uses Systems Thinking and System Dynamics principles as launch pad for its approach. The Systemic Methodologies of Problem Structuring Methodology (PSM) and SAST are also integrated in this new Multi-Methodology. SSPS is a new practical and scientific tool in designing and evaluating a VE architecture providing the ability to determine the impact, reliability, success of the Architectures' models created, refine them and identify potential process improvements. A framework for the rapid and efficient integration of the business processes of the participating companies in the virtual enterprise is provided. For this multi-methodology, a real-life application is also presented for a Virtual Enterprise that constructs Wireless Payment Mechanisms. Show more

Keywords: Virtual Enterprises, System Dynamics, PSM, SAST, I-Think©

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25102

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 13-29, 2006

Authors: Hiwaki, Kensei | Tong, Junie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article provides a theoretical framework for a long-term socioeconomic lethargy (Credibility Trap) that results from the liquidation of holistic society-specific culture. As for example, it deals with the cases of Japan today and China tomorrow, elaborating on the slight of their respective society-specific cultures in a century-long process of “modernization”. The present theoretical framework primarily consists of three pivotal concepts, viz., Credibility Trap, society-specific cultures (Cultures) and market fundamentalism (Market), which facilitates a clear, concise and effective argument that the liquidation of their respective holistic Cultures may intimately relate to their actual and potential socioeconomic lethargy. Also, the present …article concentrates on the elaboration of some promising avenues for prevention and cure of Credibility Trap. Such avenues comprise the necessary and sufficient conditions for a balanced socioeconomic development; a theoretical framework for a perpetual “virtuous” circle among cultural enrichment, comprehensive human development and balanced socioeconomic development; and a normative framework of multi-faceted value enhancement for vitality augmentation and cultural enrichment within a society. Show more

Keywords: Credibility Trap, holistic society-specific cultures, market fundamentalism, balanced socioeconomic development, comprehensive human development, cultural enrichment, vitality augmentation

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25103

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 31-50, 2006

Authors: Kumar, Sameer | Yamaoka, Teruyuki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: System dynamics (SD) modeling approach is used to study the US and Japanese car industries' closed loop supply chains. The state of car recycling in the US and Japan and also end of life vehicle (ELV) regulation in Japan are reviewed. Disposal of cars that reach end of life phase in the US and Japan and export of used cars to emerging economies including potential threats to car manufacturers in these economies are examined. Relationships between reduce, reuse, recycle and disposal in the US and Japanese car markets are explored with base scenario analysis using the car consumption data and …forecasts. The SD model was also subjected to extreme conditions test for structural validity. Dynamic analysis of different market scenarios for the US and Japanese reverse supply chains are also conducted. The study shows government regulations can have a significant impact on the car industries' reverse supply chains in the US and Japan. Show more

Keywords: Closed loop supply chain, reverse supply chain, reverse logistics, end of life vehicle regulation, Japanese car recycling law, system dynamics, recycle, re-use

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25104

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 51-70, 2006

Authors: Chen, Shun-Hsing | Lin, Wen-Tsann | Yang, Ching-Chow

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study establishes a stolen-vehicle tracking management information system (MIS) combining information technology (IT) equipment in a wireless local area network (WLAN), personal digital assistant (PDA), and charge couple devices (CCD) camera with vehicle license plate recognition (LPR) technology. First, the police setup CCD cameras at fixed locations or in police vehicles to monitor every moving vehicle and fetch plate information to match retrieved plate information compared with stolen-vehicle databases. Second, when a stolen-vehicle is detected, the system communicates real-time warning signals to PDA held by on-duty police to intercept the stolen vehicle. The real-time information delivery and communication provided …by this system not only help the police to solve serious criminal cases and protect public life and property, but also increase management effectiveness and lower manpower costs. Show more

Keywords: Charge couple devices (CCD), license plate recognition (LPR), management information system (MIS), personal digital assistant (PDA), Real-time, Stolen-vehicle, wireless local area network (WLAN)

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25105

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 71-76, 2006

Authors: Yang, Chih-Wei | Lin, Chiuhsiang Joe | Chen, James C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study presents a human reliability growth analysis system (HRGAS) for human reliability estimation and prediction. The HRGAS can be applied to monitor and record human performance activities. Human performance activity data can then be utilized to generate a human reliability growth model for a target system. This study utilized contemporary human error definition techniques and reliability models to generate a HRGAS. Software for HRGAS was developed. The analytic analysis process consists of classification of human behaviors, failure mode evaluation and analysis (FMEA), fault tree analysis (FTA), and human reliability growth calculation. A series of implementation experiments and assessments demonstrated …that the system is reliable and can be monitored and continuously controlled for reliability growth. This system can be utilized to supervise human performance and develop standards suitable for human performance. Show more

Keywords: Human-machine system, human reliability, human error, reliability growth

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25106

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 77-86, 2006

Authors: Warner, Malcolm | van Gigch, John P.

Article Type: Book Review

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2006-25107

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 87-88, 2006