School of Business and Economics (SBE)

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Achieving supply chain resilience
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2017) Sohail, Abdul Rehman
Advertisement and Islam: a muslim world perspective
(New South Wales Research Centre Australia (NSWRC), 2011) Adeel Bari; Rana Zamin Abbas
Contemporary advertisement practices have created many social and ethical problems due to their materialistic focus. The effect of these problems can also be seen in many Muslim countries including Pakistanin terms of diversion from their cultural and religious values. This paper attempts to integrate the Islamic business ethics in contemporary advertisement practices to find the solution of the ethical dilemma which is created by these materialistic advertisement practices. The focus of Islamic way of business is not just to earn profit but to serve the society. The human welfare is the gist of Islamic business ethics. This paper attempts to evaluate advertisement in terms of Quran and Hadiths of the Holy Prophet (PBUM) and discuss unethical aspects of the contemporary advertisement practices.
Agent base simulation Fashion retail chain
(University of Management and Technolog, 2016) Saeed, Azam
This research develops a multi-agent simulation model for fashion retail supply chain. Intelligent agents are designed using SQL to performed key roles of supply chain management for fashion retail. Baseline model is validated and proposed model is designed using pooled inventory warehouse to make supply chain more responsive. Results shows that pooled inventory having a positive impact on customer services level, merchandise performance and mark-downs percentage is also reduced. Supply chain physical cost can also reduce by using deploying intelligent agents in real life and performance of these agent can improve by analyzing of simulation results and gaps analysis
Agent base simulation Fashion retail chain
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2016) Saeed, Azam
This research develops a multi-agent simulation model for fashion retail supply chain. Intelligent agents are designed using SQL to performed key roles of supply chain management for fashion retail. Baseline model is validated and proposed model is designed using pooled inventory warehouse to make supply chain more responsive. Results shows that pooled inventory having a positive impact on customer services level, merchandise performance and mark-downs percentage is also reduced. Supply chain physical cost can also reduce by using deploying intelligent agents in real life and performance of these agent can improve by analyzing of simulation results and gaps analysis.
Analysis on the Supply Chain of A.T.S Synthetic Pvt. Ltd.
(University of Management & Technology, 2017) Ismat Butt, Ammar; Zahidi, Syed Imran; Jamil, Badar; Ahmaad, Shafqaat
This project covers the correction of process which starts from procurement of materials from vendors globally and produce finished goods and delivery to customers. This process includes Sole Manufacturing and Synthetic Leather Manufacturing by reducing shortage of materials in warehouses. Elimination of lead time increasing steps (Non value added). Process optimization of Logistics (Warehousing, Distribution, Transportation, Customs Clearance), Planning (Production Planning, Stock Planning, Material Planning). Process standardization by benchmarking from different logistics bodies. E.g. FBR (Federal Board of Revenue). Furthermore addition of latest technology E.g. online information portal.
Antecedents and Consequences of Dynamic Supply Chain Design and Learning Capabilities
(University of Management & Technology, 2018) Haris Aslam
This study applies Dynamic Capabilities View (DCV) to the study of supply chain capabilities. While the literature in the area of dynamic capabilities (DCs) from supply chain perspective or Dynamic Supply Chain Capabilities (DSCCs) has grown steadily, few important questions have remained unanswered. Specifically, this study seeks to find out the antecedents and consequences of DSC Cs. In this study, DSCCs are operationalized based on the framework presented by Teece (2007), as a second-order factor consisting of sensing, seizing, and transforming capabilities. Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) and Supply Chain Leaming (SCL) are proposed as antecedents of DSCCs. The role of Environmental Dynamism (ED) in the process of capability formation is also considered. Finally, direct and indirect relationship between DSCCs and Supply Chain Performance (SCP) is considered. Indirect relationship is studied using the Operational Flexibility (OFL), Operational Improvement (OIM), and Operational Innovation (OIN) as mediating operational capabilities. Survey research was used to test the hypothesized model. Data were collected from 275 managers working in supply chain and related functions in manufacturing sector of Pakistan. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to validate the measurement model and test hypotheses. Results of the study showed that the research model was generally supported. Sensing, seizing (supply chain agility), and transforming (supply chain adaptability) provide a parsimonious framework for measuring DSCCs as indicated by fit indices in CF A. Results of the hypotheses tests showed that EO and SCL have a positive impact on DSCCs. Furthermore, DSCCs had a stronger direct impact on SCP compared to the indirect impact. This research contributes to the literature by providing a framework for measuring DSCCs. It provides a better understanding of capability levels by empirically showing that capabilities operate at different levels and capabilities at each higher level modify the next level capabilities. It helps develop an understanding about DC-performance relationship in a better way. The study also showed that environmental dynamism does not play a significant role in the relationship between higher-order and lower-order dynamic capabilities. Finally, for executives and managers who are concerned about better managing their supply chains, this study provides insights for how firms can develop competitive advantage through DSCCs.
Application of value stream mapping tool in the beverage industry ( Soft drink company) of Pakistan
(UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY, 2015) Shafaq Ajmal
The purpose of this thesis is to show the application of VSM tool in the beverage industry. The approach used is case study. Data has been collected through semi structured interviews. Data validity has been done using the secondary documentation and plant visits. The study starts with introduction of VSM and highlights its importance in big as well as small manufacturing firms, offices, service industry and healthcare sector.. It also shows that the previous studies have been done using VSM and significant decrease in lead time was observed. The parameters used are efficiency, effectiveness and lead time. The second portion shows the literature review on all the parameters used in this study. The third portion elaborates that qualitative research using case study has been done. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling and the unit of analysis is managers at strategic and tactical level. Four in depth interviews have been conducted. Data triangulation has been done using semi structured interviews, direct observation and document analysis. The results reveal that VSM is not implemented in beverage industry and lead time is the major issue company is facing and to overcome this problem safety stock is kept. Uncertainty and space constraints are other issues. The current state and future state map have been drawn which shows a significant reduction in lead time.
Applying brand value co-creation framework to textile retail industry
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2017) Faiz, Aamer
In this study, brand value co-creation framework proposed by Ramaswamy and Ozcan (2015) is applied in textile retail sector to explore how different dimensions of this framework work in this sector. Further, this study has explored these factors and situations in context of single brand apparel (SBA) outlet. Different dimensions of brand value co-creation like experiencial co-creators, co-creational enterprises, brand capability ecosystems, brand engagement platforms and brand experience domains etc have been discussed in detail to explore how these dimensions collectively play their role towards overall co-creation and development of brand value in textile retail sector. The above discussion emphasizes the idea that brand value co-creation in textile retail sector is dependent on several factors and these factors need to be explored in detail for the understanding of brand value co-creation concept in textile retail industry. Due to limited empirical findings about how brand value is co-created in textile retail industry from a perspective of value co-creation, this study is based on a qualitative, exploratory research strategy. A case study research is used to observe various processes being followed in the firm. The focus of this study is on exploring the factors that contribute towards brand value co-creation in textile retail industry. Due to scope of this study and limited time, it was decided to focus on one retail chain only, operating in Lahore known as Nishat Linen, a branded apparel retail chain. Lahore is the second largest city of Pakistan and capital of Punjab province. The sampling technique for the present study is purposive sampling. Interviews of 9 stakeholders comprising of Nishat Linen’s employees, specially marketing and sales staff, its suppliers and its customers were conducted using snowball or networking method. The data collection was conducted through personal face-to- face semi-structured interviews with all stakeholders related to Nishat Linen. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for investigation and analysis. To analyze qualitative data, thematic networks were used, by employing Nvivo QSR software (Attride-Stirling 2001). In this process, data was coded to find and establish themes, and thematic networks were constructed and analyzed before interpretation of the patterns of findings. Interviewees were asked to advise their understanding of brand value co-creation with different stakeholders within their company as well as outside and to define the value creation activities wherever possible.
Applying brand value co-creation framework to textile retail industry
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2017) Faiz, Aamer
In this study, brand value co-creation framework proposed by Ramaswamy and Ozcan (2015) is applied in textile retail sector to explore how different dimensions of this framework work in this sector. Further, this study has explored these factors and situations in context of single brand apparel (SBA) outlet. Different dimensions of brand value co-creation like experiencial co-creators, co-creational enterprises, brand capability ecosystems, brand engagement platforms and brand experience domains etc have been discussed in detail to explore how these dimensions collectively play their role towards overall co-creation and development of brand value in textile retail sector. The above discussion emphasizes the idea that brand value co-creation in textile retail sector is dependent on several factors and these factors need to be explored in detail for the understanding of brand value co-creation concept in textile retail industry. Due to limited empirical findings about how brand value is co-created in textile retail industry from a perspective of value co-creation, this study is based on a qualitative, exploratory research strategy. A case study research is used to observe various processes being followed in the firm. The focus of this study is on exploring the factors that contribute towards brand value co-creation in textile retail industry. Due to scope of this study and limited time, it was decided to focus on one retail chain only, operating in Lahore known as Nishat Linen, a branded apparel retail chain. Lahore is the second largest city of Pakistan and capital of Punjab province. The sampling technique for the present study is purposive sampling. Interviews of 9 stakeholders comprising of Nishat Linen’s employees, specially marketing and sales staff, its suppliers and its customers were conducted using snowball or networking method. The data collection was conducted through personal face-to- face semi-structured interviews with all stakeholders related to Nishat Linen. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for investigation and analysis. To analyze qualitative data, thematic networks were used, by employing Nvivo QSR software (Attride-Stirling 2001). In this process, data was coded to find and establish themes, and thematic networks were constructed and analyzed before interpretation of the patterns of findings. Interviewees were asked to advise their understanding of brand value co-creation with different stakeholders within their company as well as outside and to define the value creation activities wherever possible.
Assessing the impact of green supply chains on competitiveness and economic performance
(University of Management and Technology, 2017) Maham Majid
Purpose This aim of this study is to identify the link between green supply chain management initiatives and increased competiveness and economic performance in the context of Pakistani industrial sector. Design/methodology/approach A theoretical model was developed for this purpose by reviewing the relevant literature. Then, a questionnaire was mailed to manufacturing companies in Pakistan. The data collected was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The results of this study show that greening of the inbound and production function leads to competitiveness and economic performance. However, the relationship between the outbound function and increased competiveness and economic performance is not significant. Future research could include an empirical assessment using a larger sample covering a wide geographical area. Significance of the study This study provides an empirical evaluation using a sample of Pakistani companies.
Beneficiary assessment based evaluation of SME policy of Pakistan
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2017) Ali Sadiq
The study undertook first ever evaluation of SME Policy of Pakistan. The objective of study was to evaluate policy, with perspective of its beneficiaries, and draw lessons for further improvements.SME sector is bedrock of Pakistan's economy. They contribute 40% to GDP and provide 78% non-agriculture jobs in far flung areas of the country. In 2007, first ever SME Policy was launched by the Government of Pakistan. The Policy furnished SME development vision, scope, objectives, thematic areas and principals for SME lead growth of Pakistan. Policy guidelines for thematic areas, including Access of Finance, SME Definition, Business Environment, Supporting HRD, Technology Up-Gradation and Marketing, and Entrepreneurship Development were laid down. The Policy also underscored importance of regular Monitoring and Evaluation, yet neither monitoring mechanism of policy has been established nor has any policy evaluation exercise been conducted so far. In this background, the present study undertook beneficiary based evaluation of SME Policy of Pakistan. It has been observed that often voices of beneficiaries are overlooked by bureaucracy and powerful institutions of state, such as State Bank of Pakistan. Beneficiary based evaluation is therefore considered one of the most important approaches for policy evaluation. For the present study, qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews of representatives of 09 associations of high growth SME sectors. Data analysis was done through NVivo software for coding data, developing mind maps and project maps. The resultsinclude perspectives of beneficiaries about the relevance of policy content, achievement of its intended outcomes, impact of policy on SME growth and recommendations for improvements
Bridging nexus between the financial returns of the film industry and its determinants
(University of Management and Technolog, 2017) Waqar Hassan Randhawa
The purpose of this study is to discern the determinants of the returns of movies in its distinctive genre in context of cinematic factor and financial impact factors. We further tested the adequacy of the current return being a success story in comparison to past. A total of 900 movies sample has been chosen and stratified into equivalent number relating to the old era (1980-2006) and new era (2007-2016). The data demographically relates to the major cities of Pakistan; Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar & Quetta. The data is further stratified into Returns (Based upon Box office collection and Investment) and with respect to their perceived determinants, cast, direction, story & Music. We have also tested perceived Financial Determinants (Cast remuneration, variable production cost and promotional expenses). For determining the quantum of returns independent sample T statistics was applied. In order to test the significance of perceived determinants of returns of the movies OLS regression was applied. Our study indicates a surge in returns. Furthermore it reveals that cast and direction are the most significant predictors for the returns, whereas music and story has only shown partial predictability. We have established empirically that for Pakistanfilm industry the financial returns heavily bank on the financial determinants in which more prominently the cast remuneration and the direct variable cost have major to contribute.
“CHALLENGE – HINDRANCE STRESS & EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT: ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL: A Case of Telecom Sector in Pakistan”
(UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY, 2015) Munir Butt, Sumaira
The objective of this study is to identify the relationship between challenge hindrance model of stress and employee engagement. This research study also aims at identifying the role of psychological capital in challenge hindrance and employee engagement relationship. Individuals from management positions from telecommunication sector participated in this study. Data was collected by using survey method. All the variables of interest score high on reliability tests. The outcome of the research showed the moderating role of psychological capital in the relationship between challenge-hindrance stress and employee engagement and in the light of the study findings it is suggested that, those employees who take challenge stressors as potential gains, they are hopeful, confident, consistent and optimist regarding the stressful event that they will come out of it with success and will achieve their goals. Following the same note they exert their maximum efforts with dedication and energy to achieve desired output. Hence it can be posited that psychological capital helps employees to accept challenge stressors potential gains and work with engagement. Although our research does not identify any new stress management practices per se, our research does illustrate the potential utility of diagnosing stressors as challenges or hindrances, and then applying well-known remedies selectively. On the one hand, managers could attempt to reduce or eliminate hindrances, because these types of demands do not seem to have any positive effects. We note that this idea stands in sharp contrast to implications of the inverted-U perspective, which suggests to managers that up to some point, all types of stressors at work are good. On the other hand, instead of reducing or eliminating challenge stressors (because of the positive associations with motivation and performance),5managers could actually increase levels of challenge stressors as long as they also used practices that reduced or buffered the associated strains.
Challenges in adoption of result- based management approach
(University of Management and Technology Lahore, 2015) Tariq, Maria
Result based management is increasingly being used by the development agencies to measure the effectiveness of their initiative. The purpose of RBM is to provide the Monitoring and evaluation framework that assure that inputs of projects are resulted in envisioned and significant impact. However, many instances proved that the implementation of RBM has been failed which raised the concern to figure out the rationales. SMEDA (Small &Medium Enterprise Development Authority) opted RBM based on Monitoring & Evaluation framework but the initiative could not become successful .This study was carried out to analyze the factors that results in failure of the initiative. The findings will assist the development agencies in coming up with the most appropriate measures to apply in order to eliminate not only defaults but also provide some suggestion which will help them to achieve the desired outcomes. A semi structure interview was conducted with employees of SMEDA and ASP (Assessment Strengthening Programmers to explore their experience and challenges in the adoption process of RBM. ASP played enabler role. Results were compiled by using NVIVO 11 software. The study established that change was the problem which could not incorporate accurately in SMEDA ultimately led to the failure. Change factors influencing the failure of RBM approach: inadequate leadership, employee’s reluctant behavior, inadequate training and lack of synchronization. The study recommends development agencies in order to achieve desired outcomes needs to involve leaders, partner, key policy, and program or initiative stakeholders in every stage of development and adoption of RBM. The development agencies should select the indicator based on what will provide best information not only what will be easiest to implement. The study will contribute towards providing the SMEDA and possibly other development agencies, with suggestion on how they can improve the performance of their system.
Challenges, Opportunities and HR Competencies for Internationalization of Higher Education Institutions
(University of Management and Technolog, 2017) Amna Irfan
Over the period of last two decades, internationalization has become a vital factor for the growth of the higher education institutions. Swift improvements in a program running, information technology and development of knowledge economy have pushed higher educational institutions to go for internationalization. Pakistanhas become a part of this trend as many universities have introduced such curriculums that include internationalization. The current study is focusing on challenges which higher education institutions encounter during the internationalization process and the opportunities that are there for this process. In addition to this, current study identifies the HR competencies required for the staff of internationalization. The objective of present study is to highlight the individual, institutional and national level challenges & opportunities for internationalization of higher education institutions.The study also focuses on the importance of HR for internationalization of higher education institutions of Pakistan. For the present study, Case study method was used as a methodology and qualitative data were collected from three universities of Pakistan. Data was collected from the Head of internationalization, Director of internationalization and those students who have experienced internationalization through student exchange programs. Data was collected through ninein-depth interviews and strategy documents for internationalization of the three universities were also used for the analysis of the current study. Data analysis was done through NVivo 11 software for coding data, developingproject maps and mind map. The results includechallenges, opportunities and HR competencies for internationalization of higher education institutions in Pakistan
Civilization and organization theory: a new eistemological discourse
(2010) Naveed Yazdani
Culture, nation state and society are generally employed in contextualizing organization theory. The construct civilization which transcends national, cultural and societal boundaries is not used in indigenization of organization theory. This thesis employs civilization as a theoretical construct to study and analyze organization theory of Western civilization. The analysis is undertaken by using discourse approach. Two parallel discourses, historical and organizational, are constructed for the Western civilization. The historical discourse presents the major thoughts and ideas of the civilization. The organizational discourse shows the impact of historical discourse on organization theory of the civilization. The historico-organizational discourse of civilization is used to construct the reflexive relation between civilization and organization theory. Three elements research model is used for conducting this study. The epistemology of constructionism and theoretical perspective of interpretivism is used to formulate discourses of the Western civilization. The discourse analyses are followed by a discussion on the reflexive relation between civilization and organization theory,grounding of civilization in the contemporary organizational theories, rational of positioning civilization as an organizational epistemology, concluding remarks, major future research implications and basic limitations of the study. A four-tiered conceptual framework is represented to posit civilization as an episteme for organization theory.
Combined effects of Shared Leadership and firm’s Dynamic Capabilities on Team Performance and Team Innovative Behavior
(University of Management and Technolog, 2018) Hassan Askari, Syed
The research investigated the main effects of shared leadership model and firm’s dynamic capabilities in improving the possible team outcomes (e.g. team performance and team innovative behavior). Survey was conducted in textile and IT sector of Lahore, Pakistan and findings supported the proposed arguments and confirmed that shared leadership is an effective approach to improve team performance and team innovative behavior. Firm’s dynamic capabilities also found to have significant impact on team performance and team innovative behavior. Additionally, the study examined whether firm’s Dynamic capabilities play moderating role in improving the impact of shared leadership on team performance and team innovative behavior. Empirical findings confirmed moderating role of dynamic capabilities in the relationship of shared leadership and team performance. However, the study couldn’t find the moderating role of dynamic capabilities in relationship of shared leadership and team innovative behavior. After empirical findings and analysis, theoretical and practical implications are provided for academia and corporate sectors at the end.
A Comparative Study of Service Quality and Student Satisfaction of Public and Private sector Business Schools of Lahore
(University of Management and Technology, 2016) Mohi-ud-Din, Asad
Major intention of this research thesis was to study the influence of service quality on satisfaction of students in business schools of Lahore, Pakistan. Second aim of this research was to check the difference between satisfaction level of students among public sector university student and private universities students. To fulfill these objectives this research use quantitative research strategy, in which data was collected through self-administrative questionnaire. After going through the cleaning process, data was analyzed by using statistical techniques, i.e. regression, mean comparison, etc. Research model was found significant as the significance value is lesser than .05 and it has ability to predict the students satisfaction. R2 is 0.51 which shows that 51 % of the variation in student satisfaction is being explained by this model. Academic and non-academic aspects of service quality in higher education were identified as important quality indicators. Academic aspects like teacher’s expertise and their interest in their subject also influence the satisfaction of student. Interestingly the results of this research are bit clashing with the theoretical perspective. Non-academic aspect of the service quality got the lowest score, which means students are least concerned with the administrative staff’s support. Access to resource persona and the resources got the highest score. Non-Academic Aspect of service quality got the lowest score that is .476 it indicates that students are least concerned with administrative staff support. Followed by the academic aspect of the service quality that have positive relationship student satisfaction and it is explaining almost 94%. That show students are concerned with what they are being taught in classes.
A Comparison of Different Weather Forcasting Models
(University of Management and Technology, 2017) Zaheer Abbas
In this thesis, we studied the performance of different statistical models and compare their forecast accuracy. In particular, we used multiple linear regression (MLR), seasonal autoregressive fractional integrated moving average (SARFIMA), and artificial neural network (ANN). A dynamic non-linear autoregressive (NAR) back-propagation ANN algorithm has been applied to estimate the forecast accuracy. For ANN model, we used moving average (MA) and Holt-Winter exponential smoothing (HW-ES) transformations for pre-processing the data. The monthly data of different weather parameters have been obtained from the Lahore Metrological department, Pakistanto apply the aforementioned models. The results showed that the ANN model with MA transformation of the data has the smallest root mean square error and the highest correlation coefficient for different weather parameters. Thus, ANN outperforms than the rest models in this study and it can be used to efficiently forecast the weather parameters.
Consumer choice towards modern and traditional stores while buying FMCG
(University of Management and Technology, 2016) Akram, Nazia
There are different kind of features which attract the customers for the decision making of particular store selection such as variety, quality of product, price, discounts and staff behaviour. These factors build an image in the eyes of costumers. The purpose of the study is to find the important factors that attract customers towards the modern stores. For that purpose six important factors are extracted after extensive study of literature that are product variety, store atmosphere, staff courtesy, price structure and location convenience. In this paper logistic regression has been used in order to see the contribution of the mentioned factors to store selection. A total of 300 respondents were sampled from traditional and modern stores using systematic random sampling. Stores in this study is a dichotomous variable with two categories, modern and traditional. Because of this binary nature of the dependent variable logistic regression approach was found appropriate. Of five independent variables used in the study two were found most significantly associated in all models i.e. location and atmosphere. But curtsey factor was appeared insignificant in main logistic model as well as most of the sub models. The findings showed that logistic regression is the most promising tool in providing meaningful interpretations in such type of researches.

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