BA (Hons) Business Management

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/7228

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 126

The Role of E-Marketing in the Development of Competitive Advantage to Small Fast Food Businesses in Edinburgh
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The internet has become a major marketing tool for all types of businesses worldwide. The use of the internet has a major impact on fast food industry as marketing strategies are being developed to obtain competitive advantage at all sized businesses. The literature generalises all businesses yet the small fast food business sector lacks information. As the literature contains limited information in regards to small fast food businesses, the purpose of this research project is to explore the role of Emarketing in the development of competitive advantage to small fast food businesses in Edinburgh. As a result, the following objectives have been constructed: • Exploration of E-commerce marketing and the main purpose for the business using such facilities • Analysing the strength and weaknesses of online marketing use • To examine the extent SFFB use online facilities to their advantage • Identifying the SFFB fears and concerns in the given market Primary research was conducted with five participants running Bangladeshi, Hungarian, Cantonese, Italian and African/Indian in the form of in-depth interviews lasting approximately twenty minutes. The results provided four key themes which were not detectable throughout the current literature or displayed diverse information, the themes are; Marketing trends,business environment, strategic planning and overall business perception. The themes consequently support the literature. The small fast food industry is over-crowded yet lucrative once appropriate marketing strategy is implemented whilst simultaneously obtaining competitive advantage. Further areas of study are needed; third party online ordering organisations and fast food product substitution are some areas of interest that lacks literature.
A New Paradigm: The Influence of Social Media Advertising in The Retail Sector
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The continual development of social media has given organisations a new platform on which to expand their advertising capabilities. Consumers are shifting towards social media based platforms rather than traditional methods of advertising. The arrival of social media provides new types of interactive medium platforms. The purpose of this study is to understand the impact of social media advertising within the retail sector. Primarily a qualitative method of data collection was used for this research to gain reliable findings. Data was collected by conducting interviews amongst top hierarchy management positions at retail companies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to give the researcher flexibility and to allow respondents to clarify complex issues in further detail. Moreover, a deductive research approach was used to test the hierarchy of effects model of advertising amongst respondents to see whether or not there is consensus between the literature and respondents. Based on the findings an inductive approach was then applied to develop a conceptual framework. The study found that despite respondents recognising how social media is greatly beneficial for organisations they also acknowledged some of the limitations that social media can bring. In terms of benefits, social media provides retailers with new opportunities to build stronger relationships due to its interactive characteristics. Furthermore, the social media advertising process model has been developed through literature and primary findings based on the traditional advertising process; the new features of social media provides customers to share their opinions and share contents online which could affect the retailers in a positive or negative way. Consequently, the customers conveying positive comments toward the brand will further lead to securing beliefs and attitude of the hierarchy of effects model to securing brand loyalty.
An Exploration into the Motivation of Employees, Investigating Monetary Targets: The Case of Chisholm Hunter Ltd.
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
From exploring earlier to more contemporary theories of motivation, it is clear that there is not one best way to motivate employees. These theories define a range of factors which drive motivation from both an extrinsic and intrinsic stand point. Extrinsically, it is believed that financial reward has the ability to act as a motivator for employees and as the company of interest, Chisholm Hunter Ltd., award bonuses to staff members who achieve monthly targets, the concept of performance related pay is explored and related back to the theories defined. The aim of this research is to gain an insight into the motivation of sales employees within this company, to distinguish whether or not these individuals are most motivated by the prospect of a financial reward or other potential methods. For the research, a qualitative study was used to gather data from two sample groups from three branches of Chisholm Hunter Ltd. These groups were split according to the participants' role within the company as both sales assistants and members of their management were used in the study. Sample One, participated in semi-structured interviews whereas Sample Two completed structured interviews both of which were held face-to-face. The data collected provided two perspectives which were compared through the process of thematic analysis, which provided key themes to be discussed and analysed in accordance with the literature surrounding the topic. Results from this study highlight that the respondents of this sample did find that money had the ability to motivate people, yet many felt this was not the method most suited to intensify their own personal levels of motivation. The participants identified more with intrinsic methods of increasing motivation such as achievement, praise and teamwork. In addition to this, it was concluded that not only do potential methods have the ability to either motivate or demotivate people; they can also cause employees to act in inappropriate ways which they would not usually engage. This is not in the company, employees or their co-workers best interests.
A study into online fashion brands use of blogs in creating brand awareness in women aged 16-25
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The purpose of this research project was to investigate the new phenomenon of businesses using online blogs to market their brand. The study looked at eight online fashion brands, which all engage with popular fashion bloggers. It contributes to the understanding of how a brand can use well-known bloggers to reach their target market, whether the target population engage with blogs enough to create brand awareness and to investigate the possibility of integrating blogs with other social media sites to increase brand exposure. The literature review provided a strong background for this research project. It looked at the emergence of social media and the development of traditional marketing techniques to incorporate this new two-way communication between businesses and consumers. It then went on to look at the concept of blogging, the motivational factors for blog engagement and the idea of brand community. An understanding of electronic word of mouth and what brand awareness means added to the understanding of this new marketing technique. A mixed method research design was adopted to facilitate both statistical data and a further understanding of consumer's views on the concept of using blogs to create brand awareness. Quantitative data took the form of a questionnaire taken by the required 16-25 year old female sample, with 107 completed. The qualitative data was a follow up interview from the questionnaire sample, of which 6 interviews took place. Google Drive data collection graphs were used and key theme tables helped to identify and discuss upon the findings of the research in relation to the objectives outlined in the introduction. Findings indicated that whilst brands use of fashion blogs does not independently create strong brand awareness, online fashion brands could still benefit from using fashion bloggers with a strong social media presence to increase their brand awareness. This dissertation aimed to gain an understanding of this new way of marketing by using blogs and social media to expose your brand and to draw upon key ideas that can be useful for brands that wish to adopt this method in the future.
An Exploration into Careers and the Psychological Contract in the Public Sector within the Context of an Economic Recession
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The purpose of this research is to find out about employees within the public sector and how the recent recession has affected them. The research aims to determine the nature of careers and the psychological contract within the public sector with an exploration into the extent the recent recession has affected these areas. To gain an organisational insight into this topic, employees and managers of a public sector organisation have been interviewed through a semi-structured approach, with interview questions based on the gaps identified within the literature review. A thematic approach was used to analyse the data with any limitations of the interviews being acknowledged. The sample size may be seen as a research limitation due to it being relatively small with only 12 participants, so this may impact on the generalisation of the findings. The findings revealed that the main career path has not changed within the public sector and it still follows the traditional career, whilst contemporary career paths have started to edge into the sector with the next generation of employees. Furthermore, contents of the participant's psychological contract were identified with the employees and managers agreeing on what are expected of each other and what each felt obliged to do, with the main ones being support and to do the job. Finally, it was found that the recent recession had great impact on the public sector, whilst limiting the career paths of employees and heightening some expectations and obligations of both managers and employees. It is recommended by the researcher that future research should include more aspects of the public sector within the sample instead of just one area of the sector. Also, more in-depth research about the psychological contract, specifically multiple contracts and a longitudinal study should be conducted.
Organisational Culture and Employee Motivation as Contributors to Organisational Performance: The Case of UK Private Sector Organisations
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Aim: With existing empirical research's latent state, rarely encompassing employee motivation, organisational culture and organisational performance, the aim and purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between employee motivation, organisational culture and organisational performance in UK Private Sector organisations. Methodological Design: The methodological design behind this study is an exploratory, phenomenological, and qualitative approach. The researcher used semi-structured interviews to gather data from a purposively selected, non-random sample of 10 participants in different hierarchical positions, from four different organisations of different sizes, from different industries in the UK Private Sector. Findings: By analysing data through a cyclical process, four main themes were identified: employee performance's regulatory nature; organisational culture as a performance driver; a conjunctive synergising performance driver; and the importance of management's participation. As a by-product of identifying organisational culture's link to performance, the prevailing definition of organisational culture is supported. Overall, this study contributes to broadening the understandings of the three-way relationship between employee motivation, organisational culture and organisational performance.
The Effects of Problem Gambling for the Betting Industry and their Employees: Balancing Moral Obligations with a Successful Business
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
This study investigates the role of staff members employed in a customer facing role within a high street book makers organisation and if they are able to help tackle the issue of problem gambling. The study will also analyse the effects of problem gambling/gamblers on the employees and the wider betting industry. Previous research primarily offers a descriptive account of five key themes identified in the dissertation. The main themes focus on psychological issues, consumer behaviour, regulations, staff training and staff interventions. The focus of the study is designed to further advance our understanding of the term problem gambling and issues involved for those in a frontline staffing position who may be in a position or required to intervene. Qualitative research was employed with the researcher completing 15 semi-structured interviews amongst employees of a UK high street bookmaking chain. The research was of an exploratory nature to gain an insight into the issue and is not, as conducted, generalizable into a wider community. The results of the study showed a clear understanding of the term 'problem gambler's with evidence that all participants were willing to interact with an individual who may be presenting signs of addictive behaviour. This willingness to intercede was primarily noted as being due to the relationship that is formed between employees and customers. However, employees feel that more staff training would benefit and enhance the interaction process. Due to the number of participants the results could not be generalised and it is suggested that as gambling continues to be liberalised further research should be completed on a larger scale nationwide across the full gambling industry. There were a number of limitations when conducting this research as due to the timeframe and scale of the project participants were all from the one organisation and from the same area of the country.
Retailing and Sustainability: An Investigation of Marks & Spencer Plan A
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Sustainability is a concept that has long been on the agenda for organisations but for many decades their environmental, economic and social activities have been separated from their core business plans (Bonini and Gomer 2011). Within the literature sustainability is traditionally characterised as environmental concerns. However, today it now encompasses three dimensions of economic, environmental and social concerns (Jackson 2009). The investigation focused on the contribution of Marks and Spencer to the Triple Bottom Line concept (TBL). The TBL focuses on a company's ability to add environmental and social value to economic value (Sutton 2004). Sustainability is ever important to the retailing sector as it is evident that current levels of consumer consumption are not sustainable in the long run (Newman 2012). Therefore, increasing media attention, governmental reform and campaigns by activist groups have made consumers more aware of the actions of retailers. Consequently, in response retailers have begun including sustainable practices as part of their core business plans. The aim of this research was to investigate, analyse and discuss sustainability in retailing through investigation and appraisal of Marks and Spencer Plan A. This was met firstly, through an extensive literature review focusing on the concept of sustainability and sustainable development in the retailing sector generating secondary research. Secondly, a case study on British retailing icon Marks and Spencer's award winning Plan A initiative was investigated through an analysis of the TBL concept. The researcher finally, conducted primary research in order to generate key stakeholder understanding of the initiative. The research established that yes, Marks and Spencer have put sustainability to the heart of their business plan. However, although M&S are addressing the issue of customer and employee engagement, more still needs to be done in order for them to meet their target of becoming the world's most sustainable retailer.
Training in small businesses: An employer and employee perspective.
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The purpose of this paper is to examine training practices in small businesses with between one and nine employees. Specific research on training in businesses of this size is limited, however primary research increases the understanding on the topic. Studies show training to be of crucial importance to a business. This paper ascertains why training is not more widely used. The research strategy comprised of mixed methods to provide a well-rounded research approach with the use of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. A concentration on qualitative methods, highlighted a strong awareness of an interpretivist philosophy. Convenience sampling within the Glasgow area produced eighty survey respondents and thirteen interview respondents. Analysis highlighted five key themes, the type of training in small businesses; the quantity; the barriers to training; its importance and suggested improvements. The findings provide a deeper understanding of an employee and employer perspective of small business training. On-the-job training was confirmed as the most common training approach. The majority of employees desired more training. However there was significant interest for a more formalised structure. Furthermore, a disconnect between employees and employers was highlighted. The findings were generated by both qualitative and quantitative data to reduce bias and ensure reliability. However, the nature of the research prevented generalisation to be conducted. A larger sample would allow for generalisation and would provide a more varied group of respondents, as the study concentrated on businesses within the hospitality and retail sector. Overall, the research provided a comparative perspective of employees and employers and suggests employers should listen to employees desire for more training. Education and assistance for employers would allow them to explore and understand training practices that may have been more suited to them.
Strategic Responses in Public and Private Organisations: a Comparison of Fitness Clubs in Edinburgh.
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The aim of this paper is to gain an understanding of how public and private strategy differs within the context of health clubs in Edinburgh. More specifically the organisations within this research were Virgin Active, an organisation who boasts the highest standard within the health club industry, and Edinburgh Leisure, a prominent public health club based within Edinburgh. This study will aim to investigate the differences in strategy between the two organisations and understand how they are able to gain competitive advantage to compete in the market. This study is significant to the pace at which the health club industry is growing; they can adopt the methods and techniques used by the subjects of this study to gain their advantage. This study will look to answer the following objectives: • To gain better understanding of how corporate level strategy is communicated to the operational level and how strategy is then put into practice. • To evaluate how a public and private organisation's capabilities and resources allow it to compete in the market. • To understand further how an organisation's core strategic principles (vision and objectives) have a direct impact on how the company operates. • To gain an understanding of how customer service and quality vary in public and private health clubs and whether this impacts customer loyalty. A qualitative approach was used in this study to achieve the research objectives, through conducting interviews with both managers and consumers of both Edinburgh Leisure and Virgin Active. Following evaluation of the various methods, interviews were considered the most appropriate option due to the in-depth information that can be achieved as compared to quantitative methods. The data was then transcribed and coded into the separate themes that stemmed from the literature review. This allowed for a comparison of the data to be made and a discussion to be formed. The results showed much of the research agreed with the literature and it could be seen that both the organisations followed the strategic map, where the public organisation considered the customers needs first, as compared to the private organisation that first considered profit first. The results also showed that although the consumers of the health clubs were happy with the level of customer service, it was clear that it was important to ensure that the organisations' distinctive capabilities were used effectively if they wished to compete effectively in the market and increase and retain their customer base. This study was restricted to Edinburgh due to locational restrictions, however for the generalisability of the study, methods could be replicated to investigate various health clubs in other cities and councils.
An Exploration of how Autocratic and Democratic Management Influence Productivity amongst Lower Level Staff Groups: A Tesco Based Investigation
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Aim & Objectives Due to constant change in business management techniques, it proves difficult to specify what management technique is best for crating a practical and valuable workforce. It has previously been proven that management style influences employee productivity. This study has been set up to specify what management technique, if any, shows a positive correlation with employee productivity. Autocratic and Democratic management will be the dominant subjects focused on throughout this study. Motivation and Job Satisfaction will also be significantly apparent throughout. The four main objectives of this dissertation are: • establish how employee productivity is effected by an Autocratic manager • establish how employee productivity is effected by a Democratic manager • identify if both management styles can demonstrate a relationship between Management style, Motivation and Job Satisfaction • identify which management style, if any, relates to the highest level of staff productivity Methodological Design Mixed Methods have been used to complete this study. Questionnaires with open ended questions were the main data collection method. Questionnaires were completed by managers and a number of their employees. The managers were grouped into autocratic and democratic units alongside their employees. Findings Post data collection, the data was analysed through the use of thematic analysis. Several themes became apparent throughout the analysis stage the following sub chapters have been created: • Autocratic Management • Democratic Management • Motivation • Job Satisfaction The data showed mixed responses regarding these themes. Hypothesis testing was also put to use. The two hypotheses that were tested are: Hypothesis 1- Autocratic management has a positive affect on staff productivity Or Hypothesis 2- Democratic management has a positive affect on staff productivity The assumption was made that if one was correct then the other would be wrong, however this proved difficult after analysing the data. Conclusions Concluding this study proved difficult as the managers perceptions of employee productivity differed from the employees' perceptions of their own productivity. There are however, things that Tesco can consider to increase employee productivity within their stores. Key Words: Autocratic Management, Democratic Management, Employee Productivity, Motivation, Job Satisfaction
In what ways do Orkney food and drink companies use provenance in marketing their products?
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Purpose: The aim of the research undertaken was to explore the different ways that the food and drink businesses in Orkney use provenance as a way of marketing their produce to a wider market. Design, Methodology and Approach: The research followed a qualitative approach, where seven open-ended question interviews were undertaken with the owners/managers of the food and drink businesses, four of which were face-to-face interviews, and three over the telephone. The data collection used questions based from the literature review and around the aims and objectives of the study, this involved enquiring participants about their; produce, points of differentiation, local loyalty, impact of tourism, marketing and their packaging. Findings: The results from the data concluded that there was several recurring themes which the data revealed through analyses. They consisted of utilizing a point of differentiation, symbolism/imagery used on packaging, use of websites, involvement with the Orkney Food and Drink group, provenance, the impact of tourism, loyalty of the local residents, and extent to which Government assistance was used, marketing strategies, premium level of produce, and outside sale. A final framework was then adapted from the initial framework derived from the literature review, to show the relationship between provenance and how it is used to market Orkney produce throughout Scotland. Research Limitations: The distance between the participants and the research created some difficulty in terms of organising and undertaking face-to-face interviews with the managers/owners within a short period of time. Some of the businesses pulled out due to other arrangements or withdrawing from the study last minute, which led to telephone interviews being used instead. The short amount of time that was available for the researcher to collect data, and the time constraints of other modules may have also limited the data collection. Originality and Value: An investigation of this subject was undertaken in order to discover the link between Orkney food and drink businesses and successfully selling their produce locally and into a wider market of the Scottish Market. Key words: Provenance, Food and Drink, Marketing, Orkney.
An Evaluation Of The Factors Affecting Women's Access To Decision-Making Positions Within The Scottish Banking And Financial Sector
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Purpose: The aim of this research project is to explore gender based occupational segregation within the financial sector in Scotland, looking specifically at the factors affecting women's access to decision-making positions. Design/Methodology/ Approach: This study was conducted using qualitative face-to-face interviews. The interviews were conducted using only female participants, all of whom were over the age of 18 and gave written consent. A sample size of 7 was obtained across different positions of the organisational hierarchy and responsibility levels in order to gain a wide response. Findings: The research concludes that there are several cultural and industry barriers which exist and have a direct effect on the progression of women into positions of the managerial hierarchy within the Scottish banking and financial sector. Limitations: There were several limitations identified by the researcher prior to, and during the course of this research. Firstly access to participants became difficult, as the initial contact identified within the industry had an increased workload at the time of the research and was unable to aid with the identification of prospective participants. Secondly face-toface interviewing technique became difficult to implement due to the time constraints of the participants, therefore interviews had to be adapted to fit with the schedules of participants resulting in some being completed via e-mail. It is also important to note that the researcher's interpretations of relevant data may be regarded as subjective. Key Words: Gender, Occupational segregation, Career barriers, Management
The influence social marketing has on the concept of beauty in society; a case study of Dove's 'Real Beauty' campaign
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
This research explores the influence social marketing can have on society's perceptions and views, with a particular focus on the concept of beauty. The pursuit of beauty is apparent in society and society's concept of beauty has become what could be considered as distorted. This distortion has affected the concept of beauty and caused subsequent issues which affect women's mental and physical health. Efforts are being made by social marketers to combat the negative influence on the concept of beauty with a more positive one. This research questions to what extent a social marketing campaign can redefine the perceptions of a society and whether it is possible to influence a society to redefine its concept of beauty. The objectives of this study are first to identify the extent to which marketing has previously negatively impacted how individuals define beauty, and as a result their self-perception. Second, to comprehensively explore the success of Dove's 'Real Beauty' campaign and to assess how influential the campaign has been on how individuals perceive and define beauty and how they value themselves. Finally, the aim is to develop an understanding of the extent to which social marketing communications can alter an individual's perceptions. Qualitative research was carried out to gain an insight into women's relationship with the concept of beauty. This was done by conducting 10 semi-structured in-depth interviews with women between the ages of 18 and 64. The research discovered that the negative impact of beauty marketing on the concept of beauty is to a great extent altering how individuals value themselves. The findings also indicated that an individual's perceptions and definitions of beauty can be influenced by social marketing, as the Dove campaign managed to do.
An examination into the effectiveness of individual fashion blogs as a digital marketing tool and their influence on consumer behavior
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the new phenomenon of brands using fashion blogs as promotional channels. The research project further aimed to explore the impact of this new and innovative marketing technique on consumer behaviour. A mix method approach was adopted to facilitate understanding from the bloggers and marketer perspectives on the topic while considering blog readers and measuring the extent to which fashion bloggers affect their purchasing decisions. The study involved 6 semi-structured interviews with bloggers and community bloggers. Participants were asked the same questions, to allow for a more coherent and consistent study, furthermore, questions were based on the key themes extracted from the available literature. For the quantitative data collection, a survey was conducted targeting blog readers, with 100 completed. Data collection charts and thematic tables were used to examine and consider the results of the study in relation to the literature. Most of the academic literature relates to the findings although there is limited research available on this new phenomenon. Therefore, some of the findings were not outlined within the literature. These included the local blogging communities, successful strategies for fashion blogs as marketing tools or the future evolution of fashion blogs as marketing platforms. This dissertation aimed to gain a deeper understanding of a current and innovative marketing strategy thus, a range of recommendations will be suggested in order to improve further studies and, in addition, to contribute to the marketing and blogging industry.
A critical analysis of the implications of agility in logistics and supply chain management to gain competitive advantage in the oil and gas industry.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
This research investigation presents a critical analysis of the implications and importance of agility within logistics and supply chain management in the oil and gas industry. The oil and gas industry is one of the worlds largest and is characterised by an extremely competitive and erratic market. Christopher (2016), a prominent author within the field of LSCM, argues the essential use of agility to create a highly responsive, extremely competitive and customer focussed supply chain. Within the current body of literature, inconsistencies and differing arguments are evident around the exact meaning and indeed use of agility in Oil and Gas Supply Chain Management (SCM). This investigation researches the costs and benefits of agility to determine whether operating with agility outweighs any implied difficulties. Competitive drivers for agility are investigated and the key factors for success when operating with agility are examined. The literature lacks specificity when applying agile practices to an industry, it is clear this area will benefit from more research and investigation into the current oil and gas market. This research investigation took the form of a qualitative study to allow for flexibility and depth in exploring personal beliefs and opinions and in turn this facilitated the development of a set of emergent themes critical to these areas of investigation. The objectives were achieved through seven face to face interviews with industry specialists in a function of the supply chain within a range of oil and gas organisations. After coding and data analysis, the reduced primary data resulted in common themes which were critically analysed to answer the research questions. The research has found that agility is present in oil and gas industry supply chains even with a contrasting view in the literature. With clear opinions from the interviewees, the advantages of agility outweigh the disadvantages which cohere with the literature. Agility is considered one of the main functions for gaining competitive advantage in this highly competitive market. It was discovered that each organisation is unique, with their own views on how to lead in a competitive market. Agility is always considered and has many positive implications in supply chain management in the oil and gas industry.
The impact of advertising on consumer buying behaviour in the UK sports nutrition market
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify whether the advertisement of sports nutrition supplements influences the purchasing behaviours of consumers in the UK market. It will also give an understanding of the other influencing factors on consumer buying behaviour in the sports supplement market. Aims and objectives: The aim of this research project is to investigate to what extent advertisement of sports supplement products influences the purchasing behaviours of consumers in the UK. The objectives of the research are as follows: • To assess what supplements consumers are currently taking through structured questionnaires • To identify what influences UK consumers' decision making when buying supplements • To evaluate what forms of advertising are more effective than others on influencing consumer choice Methodological approach: The research for this study was conducted using two forms of quantitative data collection in the form of both an online questionnaire via social media, and a face-to-face questionnaire conducted by the researcher in a city centre gym. A sample size of 58 was achieved. Findings: It was found in this study that the majority of sports supplement consumers felt in some way influenced by advertisements when making purchasing decisions. The majority of the data agreed with existing literature in this area, however it was found that sources of information from advertisements play a less significant role in the purchase behaviours of consumers in this market. The opinions of friends/family and scientific recommendations play a much larger part in influencing choice. Brand names were identified as being one of the most influential factors, opposed to alternative forms of advertisement such as magazines, television adverts and email. Significance of research: This research adds to the current literature of advertising and consumer behaviour, and gives an insight into the opinions and influences on UK consumers in the sports nutrition market.
Implications of technological breakthroughs towards operational and sustainable performance within global supply networks
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Aim: To develop a cross-industrial analysis to complement and update the academic literature surrounding organisations' reliance on innovation and technological advancements in order to enhance performance and fulfil the strategic drive for sustainability within their global supply network. Methodological Design: The study follows an exploratory, phenomenological approach based on an interpretive, qualitative paradigm. The researcher conducted 4 semi-structured interviews with professionals in the field of global logistics and supply chain management from different companies and sectors. Findings: Data was analysed through a cyclical process and four main themes were identified: "supply chain performance assessment", "innovation and supply chain integration", "innovation and operations enhancement", and "impact of innovation on sustainable performance". This study contributes to identify the link between supply chain technological improvement and the development of competitive advantage and sustainable performance. It also asserts the importance and role of sustainability in developing supply chain performance and delivering customer value. The output of the research issues practical considerations about future of organisations and academic research in the field of innovation and sustainable supply chain management.
The motivational factors impacting upon employees in the non-profit sector: A collective case study in Edinburgh
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose: The research aims to analyse and critically explore current motivational theories in relation to employees in the non-profit sector. This study will compare the existing literature to non-profit workplace settings, in order to gain an understanding on what promotes and hinders non-profit employee motivation. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: This study implemented a mixed-methods approach consisting of 37 lower-level employee questionnaire responses and a further 4 managerial interview responses. Findings: The main findings within this research study was the significant relationship between non-profit employees and intrinsic motivational factors; findings which are also key within the literature in this field. Findings of greatest importance within this study, proved to be a personal sense of accomplishment, staff engagement and commitment to the working cause, amongst the non-profit employee respondents. Limitations: The researcher's involvement in the interpretation of results presents a lack of impartibility within the results and discussion. Furthermore, the sample size of both the questionnaires and interviews were small, impinging on the generalizability of the findings. Implications: Non-profit managers are required to understand motivation of their staff, particularly when operating in resource-restricted environment such as that of a nonprofit. Understanding employee behaviour ensures both parties, managers and subordinates, operate as a satisfied, effective working team.
The effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices on student purchasing behaviour: A case study of H&M
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The clear aim of this research study is to consider if the current Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices (such as animal welfare, recycling efforts, working conditions and sustainable materials) active within the high street retailer, H&M, (the focus case study for the research) have on the purchasing behaviours of students across Edinburgh in the sustainable fashion industry. There would appear to be a lack of existing qualitative UK based research which directly focuses on the subject of CSR and student purchasing behaviour. This exploratory study aims to fulfil this gap by adopting a qualitative approach, using the method of semi - structured interviews in order to provide a set of deep insights, from a student perspective over a sample of nine students from a variety of universities across Edinburgh. The research very clearly identified that the majority of students do not consider the CSR activities carried out by H&M before purchasing, where style, price and the aesthetics of the clothing item were the most important factors affecting consumer behaviour. Only one participant, an international student, had a good understanding and feelings about CSR, therefore it is clear that education and culture may impact consumer behaviour. The limited scope of this research is clearly recognised therefore further studies should be carried out over a wider and more diverse student base to provide more generic results and trends for both the industry and H&M.