BA (Hons) Business Management

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

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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.
A Critique of Centralised Procurement Practices within SCM.
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
The research study provides a critical analysis and critique of centralized procurement practices within Logistics and Supply Chain Management (LSCM). The significance of LSCM and in particular procurement has only recently been recognized as a critical source of building organizational capability and value. Within the current body of literature, there is a lack of argument that identifies the prominence of the procurement function within organisations, and its ability to drive value and competitive advantage. This research identifies procurement as a source of competitive advantage that must be embraced and translated into competences by contemporary organisations. Competitive priorities within procurement should include supplier relationship management (SRM), collaboration and innovation; with the depth of integration being key to the development of value. The literature lacks both depth and focus when discussing procurements' criticality in supplying these drivers; therefore it is clear this area will benefit from the subsequent research. The research was conducted in the form of a qualitative study to allow for the exploration of perspectives and opinions which exhumed recurring critical themes relating to the criticality of procurement. The objectives were satisfied through the collection of the primary data which involved 5 semi-structured interviews with professionals whom held an occupation within and / or relating to Supply Chain Management, and in particular procurement. After the data analysis, coding and reduction of primary data resulted in the identification of four critical themes, outlined in Section 4.0, which complimented the research questions. The research has since found that procurement is an integral function within contemporary organisations, contrary to the lack of literature on this position. Perspectives from the participants identified clear advantages of procurement adhering with the current body of literature. However, the study also highlighted that there is a growing interest in procurement and the value it creates, that goes beyond traditional economic benefits into collaborative innovation and problem solving.
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.
A Preliminary Investigation into the Implementation of Loyalty Programmes within Luxury Fashion Department Stores
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
The purpose of this research was to analyse the effectiveness of loyalty programmes within the luxury retailing context from the perspectives of customers. Moreover, the research intends to determine whether or not loyalty programmes motivate customers to return to the same department store. For this research project, the researcher has chosen to use a quantitative approach, using online surveys as a method to collect data, as it was the most suitable method to achieve the overall aim and objectives. The online survey was distributed through many social media platforms to a target specific sample and have collected a sample size of 103 respondents. The results from the research project has concluded that loyalty programmes are widely used in luxury fashion department stores, as a marketing strategy. The results also revealed that both type of rewards - experiential and financial incentives, should be included in luxury loyalty programmes and cannot be offered independently. The researcher has found that loyalty programmes within the luxury retailing context is effective to an extent, to increase the involvement of customers, and to communicate promotions to its customers. The results also raised that providers should consider integrating or introducing loyalty programmes into a mobile application, as it is found out to be more important and convenient for members. The researcher has experienced limitations whilst conducting this research project. One of the limitations is that the researcher was unable to gain accessibility to collect primary data from a specific luxury department store. Another limitation that arose from the research was that the researcher had to disregard twenty responses as responses did not meet the criteria.
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.
#AD: An exploratory study into consumers’ trust, attitudes, and behaviours towards influencers sponsored posts on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook
(2019)
Social media as a means of communication has increased dramatically in the previous years, and has proved to be an effective way for brands to engage and communicate with their customers. Furthermore, these platforms have paved the way for the social media influencer, in order for brands to stay competitive these people are used as a marketing tool to promote their products and/or services to their large number of followers. This research aims to assess the feelings consumers have towards influencers paid posts across the four most consumer engaging social media sites, and the affects these feelings have on their purchase intentions and has three objectives: 1. To carry out an investigation using qualitative research exploring consumers’ trust, attitudes, and behaviours towards influencers’ paid posts on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. 2. To evaluate if consumers see these paid posts as adverts or if they have become “blind” to them. 3. Make recommendations on how brands can ensure they select the correct influencers to promote their products and/or services to ensure consumers trust them and in turn purchase, and recommend their brand. A qualitative approach to data collection was selected by the researcher to achieve rich and detailed data. Data was collected by carrying out a total of three focus groups and an inductive approach was taken. Furthermore, the researcher adopted a grounded theory approach in order to analyse the data collected. As a result of this study a consistent definition of what an influencer is emerged and overall, participants engage well with influencers on social media if their adverts seem genuine and brands take the time to select the correct influencer.
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
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.
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.
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.
An exploration of automation technologies as a driver of strategic performance within the supply network
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
Purpose: The purpose of this research study is to explore the expediential growth of technology solutions within the supply chain in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry. Primarily to evaluate the impact of automation on both strategic performance and employment although it will also offer significant insights from practitioners in FMCG and of the UK's leading Logistics organisation. Methodology: Primary data for this project was attained through qualitative methods, utilising a set of semi- structured interviews, as this was the most appropriate to secure a real positive base for the informed discussion required to meet the predetermined projects aim and objectives. Interviews were conducted with 5 (senior managers and directors) current practitioners with a demonstrable and wealth of expertise in Logistics and Supply Chain within the FMCG. Findings: The outcomes strongly suggest that technology (via automation) does significantly enhance supply chain operations, providing a complimentary set of benefits in consistency, accuracy and cost reduction. However, the proposition that fully autonomous supply chains (networks) are indeed imminent and human intuition will no longer be required (in the foreseeable future) was both accepted and rejected. Research Limitations: Time constraints during and after the semi-structured interview process did not promote the correct and desired level of analysis and/or further research from the outcomes that were generated to corroborated and investigate further. The pre-set word limit for this dissertation meant only the most highly prominent and relevant outcomes were analysed despite the qualitative method uncovering a wealth of interest. Practical implications & Value: The outcomes were based on the current best thinking and practice gained from leading companies in the Food & Drink sector of Scottish FMCG and a leading UK national Logistics Organisation. The outputs from this research study are designed to provoke thought and promote further research into this fascinating and business changing topic that impacts all our (consumer) lives. Originality: Although there is a great deal of literature on various types of automation in LSCM, it is not as focused on the impact and implications on the FMCG companies in Scotland, this paper tries to fill that gap.
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
An exploratory investigation into fashion consumers and ethical issues in the industry
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose: The research aims to investigate the extent to which ethical issues in the fashion industry, comparing both animal rights and human rights, influence consumer attitude and behaviour. This study explores consumers' response to unethical practices in the fashion industry looking at awareness, attitudes and behaviours. Design/methodology/approach: This study followed a qualitative methodological approach where ten semi-structured interviews were conducted from Generation Y male and female fashion conscious consumers'. The data collection involved in-depth interviews on unethical practices in the fashion industry, this enabled for a deeper understanding into consumers' attitudes and behaviours. After carrying out the research, the results were fully transcribed, coded and themes were identified in relation to the aims and objectives. Findings: The research findings discovered that consumers are in fact aware of corporate social responsibility and showed awareness of human rights and animal rights in the fashion industry. The findings however, suggest although a proportion of consumers are aware of these ethical issues and show negative emotions, the majority still choose to purchase unethically. Research limitations: Limitations were identified throughout this study. Firstly, although appropriate for an honours dissertation, the sample size was relatively small therefore making it difficult gain great amounts of data. The second limitation found was that the sample was culturally narrow, by only taking place in Scotland, the research was limited to one country. The final limitation identified was time, conducting the interviews and transcribing the data was a lengthy process in which the researcher had to manage effectively in the specific timescale. Originality/value: The findings of this study provide a starting point for further research looking to compare attitudes and behaviours towards animal rights and human rights in the fashion industry. From the limitations above, recommendations were made for future research on the topic. Keywords: Animal Rights, Attitudes, Behaviours, Corporate Social Responsibility, Consumer Response, Ethics, Fashion Industry and Human Rights. Paper type: Dissertation
An exploratory study investigating Generation Y: Perceptions of social network advertising (SNA) and participation with brands on social network sites (SNS).
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
PURPOSE The proliferation of social media has irrevocably revolutionised the way in which individuals, organisations and brands communicate. Social network sites (SNS) have enabled brands to become increasingly connected to consumers and a plethora of affordable, highly measurable advertising tools are available to facilitate this connection. However, from a consumer perspective little is known regarding perceptions of social network advertising and participation with brands on social media (Bolton 2013, Duffet 2015a, Ruane and Wallace 2013). For consumer industries, Generation Y (Gen Y) are a key demographic and marketers are particularly interested in this cohort's social media usage as this group has substantial purchasing power and their behaviour may be a harbinger of future generations. The purpose of this exploratory research is to investigate Generation Y's perception of social network advertising (SNA) and participation with brands on SNS. RESEARCH DESIGN The extensive literature review enabled identification of the most appropriate approach. The study employed a qualitative methodology and semi structured focus groups (n=5) were conducted with Gen Y participants (n=26) in the UK. Data was analysed using a template analysis approach, enabling the researcher to set four priori themes and recognise the value of three emergent integrative themes. FINDINGS Findings furthered initial aims of the research and evidence some original contributions. Firstly, in relation to the previously set priori themes, the results present two predominant perspectives in relation to Gen Y respondent's attitudes towards SNA: those who were generally positive about SNA and those who were negative about SNA. Secondly, results suggest that when used to create social bonds, SNA can be considered as an important technique in which brands interact and foster relationships with Generation Y consumers and encouraging brand cocreation would be a conceivably successful approach. Furthermore, findings advocate that Gen Y respondents enjoy interactive brand experiences and based on the results it can be conceivably hypothesised that these experiences have the potential to encourage brand satisfaction and increased loyalty. In relation to the three emerging integrative themes, results indicate that respondents were somewhat open to new meanings of brands on social media and in order to resonate with Gen Y consumers, personalisation and informal brand communication should be encouraged alongside visual and multimedia advertising content. These findings are beneficial to organisations that wish to market towards Generation Y on SNS.
An Investigation into how Self-service Banking Technology affects Customer-employee Interactions; A HSBC Employee's Perspective
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
This dissertation is an investigation into how self-service banking technologies affect customer-employee interactions within HSBC bank. Despite previous studies on consumer attitudes and adoption towards self-service technologies, little has been researched from an employee's perspective. Academics such as Di Pietro et al. (2014) have suggested that in a self-service banking technology setting, the employee's roles are impacted, as many consumers do not require assistance with using these self-service channels. It is further pointed out, that if consumers can complete their banking queries on an independent basis, the role of the employee could be substituted for the self-service method (Di Pietro el al. 2014). The research aims to provide a critical insight and analysis into how self-service technologies within banks are affecting the employee and consumer interaction levels and how this is impacting the customer relationship. Current literature illustrates a gap in knowledge regarding this subject; therefore this study will assist in closing this gap. The subject of self-service technologies, including banking technologies and employees' were researched thoroughly and provided a basis for the methodology section of this study. For the type of data needed to answer the aim and objective of this study, a qualitative approach was found to be the most suitable method. As this study is from a HSBC employee's perspective it was fitting to use this type of method as it deals with opinions and attitudes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 5 frontline HSBC employees', with a variety of lower and senior level staff members participating. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and kept on a secure drive to ensure anonymity of all respondents involved. The data collected was then coded, to locate any predetermined and emergent themes that could then be further analyzed. This data was then used to conduct the results and discussion section of this study, constantly linking and relating back to the literature to draw conclusions. Conclusions have been made based on the findings and discussion of the research, and recommendations for further study about this topic have been made.
An investigation into performance management in the veterinary workplace in relation to employee motivation levels.
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
This research project addresses performance management and employee motivation in relation to one another. The project seeks to identify a relationship between the two factors which can then be analysed in further depth to discover what effect performance management has on employees' motivation levels. The study is conducted within the veterinary sector where motivation of employees is of pertinent importance due to the stress, anxiety and depression that is often reported by veterinary employees. An interpretivist paradigm approach is adopted for the research, where qualitative primary data is collected using semi-structured interviews. The participants of the study are veterinary sector employees who were selected using convenience sampling. Key themes are identified and referred to throughout the research project, including: motivation, intrinsic verses extrinsic motivation, employee performance, performance management, job satisfaction and employee value. Through analysis and discussion of the data collected, a relationship between performance management and employee motivation is discovered. This relationship is analysed fully to present relevant conclusions and recommendations. The study concludes that performance management can have a positive effect on employee motivation. It is recommended that managers should be aware of this relationship. Managers should be provided with training so that they can be aware of how best to utilise performance management systems as an effective employee motivation tool.
An investigation into the attitude and understanding of young consumers relating to sustainable fashion.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Sustainability is an issue that has become increasingly important in recent years as a result of increasing consumer and industry awareness of social and environmental issues. Fashion retailers have utilised that growing awareness to market sustainable products to consumers. However, research has indicated that young consumers have are not been engaged with these products. In particular, young consumers appeared to lack knowledge in relation to sustainable fashion. Nevertheless, as fashionable and environmentally aware individuals, young consumers have been identified as a group that has great promise for engagement with sustainable consumption. Despite demonstrating potential as sustainable fashion consumers, it appears that there are numerous barriers that have negatively affected the attitude of young consumers towards sustainable fashion. Consequently, this study aims to explore the attitudes of young consumers towards sustainable fashion. The research investigates the understanding of sustainable fashion from the perspective of young consumers, as well as the influences and perceived barriers towards sustainable fashion. Analysis of the current literature on the topic revealed that there was a lack of research exploring the attitudes of young consumers from a qualitative perspective. Therefore, the study was approached qualitatively, with data gathered from semi-structured interviews with 10 participants aged 18-25. Interpretation of the findings revealed a lack of knowledge and awareness surrounding sustainable fashion had limited their engagement with sustainable fashion beyond second hand and vintage clothing. Overall the key barriers that were highlighted through thematic analysis were lack of awareness, price and fashion concern. Participants suggested memorable advertising and appealing to their personal style would positively influence their attitude and potentially encourage them to purchase sustainable fashion. The findings did appear to contradict literatures which suggested that young consumers are both fashion and environmentally aware. Despite this, on the whole it appeared that participants had a positive attitude towards sustainable fashion, particularly relating to recycled clothing. The research provided a current and deeper insight into the perceived barriers and how the participants suggested that these barriers could be addressed. Overall, the research indicated that if the perceived barriers were addressed, young consumers would represent a good opportunity for fashion retailers in terms of sustainable fashion consumers.
An investigation into the current training and development methods used by British Gas on call centre agents, specifically within the Customer Services Department.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose: This research project's aim is to investigate the current training and development procedures that are implemented at British Gas on their Call Centre agents in their Customer Services department. The study will analyse the training methods put in place for the call centre agents and will seek both the employees' perspective that were put through this training process and a Training and Development Representative and their view on the current procedures. Moreover, this study will then use both the primary data obtained and secondary information from the literature review to identify opportunities for improvement to the current training process, and identify if there is external factors affecting call centre performance. Research Methodology: This study followed a qualitative methodological approach whereby five semi-structured interviews were conducted by participants from current British Gas call centre agents and a communication through e-mail with the training and development representative. Thematic analysis and coding was used to present the data. Findings: The central findings of this research project identified that some of the existing training methods used were of little effect on the participants. The data collected also illustrated the different perspective between the training and development representative and the participants who experienced the process. Furthermore, the data analysis suggested improvements to the process by the participants, proposing adaptations of the current model and alternative training methods as a means to improve the training process. Lastly, external factors were suggested by the participants as an influence on the poorer performance of the Call Centre agents. Research Limitations: The data collection approach of semi structured interviews made it necessary for the researcher to interpret the responses, which could be considered as subjective. Furthermore, the sample size was only obtained from British Gas's call centre base in Granton; as a result, the findings are not applicable to other geographical regions of the Organisation. Practical implications: This study provides evidence to improve training processes within British Gas and ways in which to engage and motivate employees more throughout the training process. Originality: This research paper contributes to previous research about viable training methods applicable to the call centre setting and the relationship between training and motivation in the Call Centre Environment.
An investigation into the effects of making employees partners within organisations, with particular interest to motivation and satisfaction levels within John Lewis Edinburgh
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
Purpose: The aim of this investigation is to research and discover the effects of making employees partners/co-owners within organisations, with particular interest in motivation and satisfaction levels. The case study chosen is John Lewis. Research Process: Literature was first reviewed extracting key themes to the individual concepts of motivation, satisfaction and co-ownership. Key themes such as empowerment, information sharing, pay and reward systems were identified to be influencers of motivation/satisfaction while being a result of organisations adopting an ownership model. This allowed an appropriate method to be selected for testing these themes. Upon the completion of these tests, results were analysed and concluded. Method: Due to a quantitative approach being taken the researcher found the most appropriate method to use was an online questionnaire; this allowed a wider range of participants to be accessed making results more valid as the research considers participant's personal feelings. It was clear with time and cost restrictions not all of John Lewis partners could be accessed so John Lewis Edinburgh was selected as a sample. A total of 60 partners participated in this study. Findings: It was found that there are several influencers to motivation and satisfaction that can be provided by an employee owned company that was similar to what was suggested in the literature. The research found partners generally were motivated and satisfied working for John Lewis, greatly due to the key derivatives of employee-ownership. Limitations: Only 60 partners participated meaning results cannot be generalised, additionally there was no testing done within a conventionally owned company
An investigation into the experiences of men working in a female dominated sector, such as primary school teaching.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose- This dissertation aims to investigate whether men working within a gendered sector, such as primary school education, face any particular challenges as a result of their gender identity. In contrast to previous studies which focus mainly on the challenges women face within a male dominated occupation this will look at men's challenges within a female dominated workplace. Methodology - Adopting a qualitative approach in the form of structured interviews. Eleven interviews were conducted in which all of the participants were all male primary school teachers. Findings- The research found that men within the primary teaching sector face a number of challenges due to their gender identity. Due to people's perceptions of males and the occupation they have chosen this has caused people to question on their motives for choosing this occupation and to be treated differently within the workplace. Male primary teachers were found to perform feminine traits in order to fit in with their colleagues and also found to emphasise their masculinity by adopting masculine traits due to working in a feminised occupation. Research Limitations/Implications- The information provides for future development within the field of male primary teachers as this area of academic literature is lacking. Perceptions of male primary teachers could be asked from female teachers in order to gain a different perspective. The number of respondent's could have been increased and not just male teachers within Scotland in order to make more of a generalisation based upon the findings. Key Words: Primary school teaching, male primary teachers, hegemony, gendered organisations, gender performance.