Journal of operations and strategic planning, May 28, 2024
This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the r... more This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the relationship between supply chain collaboration (SCC) and supply chain performance (SCP) of smallholder agro-based enterprises (SAEs). Based on the relational view and dynamic capability theories and the survey research design, the author used questionnaires to gather data from 226 SAEs who were sampled from agribusiness associations in four regions of Ghana via the quota sampling technique. Smart PLS-SEM 4.0 was used as the statistical method to analyze the data. The results showed that SCC has a significant and positive relationship with SCP, innovation capacity, and BPA. Innovation capacity significantly mediates the relationship between SCC and SCP. Furthermore, BPA fully mediates the relationship between SCC and innovation capacity, with innovation capacity also influencing SCP. This study integrates relational and capability-based views to propose a comprehensive theoretical model showing the inter-relational effect of SCC, BPA, and innovation capacity on SCP. The empirical findings widen the context of SCC literature to include SAEs from emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa. The empirical findings enrich the understanding of how SAEs can manage their SCCs to develop and use specific capabilities that positively impact SCP. The uniqueness of this article rests in the proposed model and new empirical knowledge, which extends the scope of the relational and capabilitybased views and SCC literature to include innovation capacity, BPA, and SCP of SAEs in emerging markets.
Journal of Operations and Strategic Planning, 2024
This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the r... more This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the relationship between supply chain collaboration (SCC) and supply chain performance (SCP) of smallholder agro-based enterprises (SAEs). Based on the relational view and dynamic capability theories and the survey research design, the author used questionnaires to gather data from 226 SAEs who were sampled from agribusiness associations in four regions of Ghana via the quota sampling technique. Smart PLS-SEM 4.0 was used as the statistical method to analyze the data. The results showed that SCC has a significant and positive relationship with SCP, innovation capacity, and BPA. Innovation capacity significantly mediates the relationship between SCC and SCP. Furthermore, BPA fully mediates the relationship between SCC and innovation capacity, with innovation capacity also influencing SCP. This study integrates relational and capability-based views to propose a comprehensive theoretical model showing the inter-relational effect of SCC, BPA, and innovation capacity on SCP. The empirical findings widen the context of SCC literature to include SAEs from emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa. The empirical findings enrich the understanding of how SAEs can manage their SCCs to develop and use specific capabilities that positively impact SCP. The uniqueness of this article rests in the proposed model and new empirical knowledge, which extends the scope of the relational and capabilitybased views and SCC literature to include innovation capacity, BPA, and SCP of SAEs in emerging markets.
This paper examines the role of supply chain collaboration in the relationship between supply cha... more This paper examines the role of supply chain collaboration in the relationship between supply chain intelligence and operational performance. A sample of 400 small and medium enterprises in Ghana were used to address the research objectives. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling. The findings of the study revealed that, supply chain intelligence positively impacts the operational performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Ghana. Additionally, the study found that supply chain collaboration plays a significant role in enhancing the operational performance of SMEs in Ghana. Finally, the analysis of the study concludes that supply chain collaboration further plays a significant mediating role in increasing the impact of supply chain intelligence and operational performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Ghana. The study is significant because, the findings would help expand existing literature on supply chain intelligence, supply chain collaboration and operational performance, thereby having positive implications on theory, policy, and practice.
Journal of Operations and Strategic Planning, 2023
This article brings to light the powerful connection between supply chain agility (SCA) and lean ... more This article brings to light the powerful connection between supply chain agility (SCA) and lean marketing as tools for gaining competitive advantage in this modern era of business. For organizations, achieving a competitive advantage is of the highest importance. Businesses use a variety of techniques to position themselves against their rivals as a result of rising competition. The study also looked at how SCA and firm competitiveness are moderated and mediated by lean marketing. In Ghana, information was gathered from 225 businesses via a questionnaire-based survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data obtained. The study demonstrated that the relationship between SCA and competitive advantage is highly influenced by lean marketing. The findings highlighted that lean marketing partially mediates the connotation between SCA and competitive advantage, while the moderating variables revealed that lean marketing has a significant ...
This paper sought to investigate logistics preparedness of Ghanaian institutions during health em... more This paper sought to investigate logistics preparedness of Ghanaian institutions during health emergencies.Two hundred and fifty-seven (257) respondents drawn from the security and other agencies within the EffutuMunicipality in the Central region of Ghana constituted the sample size. The authors used structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the study's model and hypotheses. The study revealed that, the availability of logistical support during emergencies is inadequate for efficient emergency management. Regarding logistical preparedness of health professionals and security agencies, there is much needs to be doneto attain the minimum acceptable standards. The study further discovered that logistical resources are critical to the collaborative effort of health workers and security agencies. However, it was evident that collaboration among institutions does not necessarily enhance the success of emergency management.The study is significant because the steady rise in Ghana's population coupled with urbanization has brought in its wake challenges that successive governments have struggled to surmount.The occurrence of frequent disasters meant that a study of this nature is important to bring to the fore the human and material costs, thus awakening the sensitivities of policy makers and authorities mandated to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the citizenry.
The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operat... more The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operational performance. Using a sample of 212 healthcare facilities in the Accra Metropolitan Area, the study observed that user perceived usefulness and ease-of-use of healthcare supply chain management systems have positive impact on performance. It was also noticed that attitudes of the users of the healthcare supply chain management system do not mediate the linkage between perceived usefulness and healthcare supply chain performance but rather mediate the relationship between perceived ease-of-use and healthcare supply chain performance. As indicated in the United Nations Development Goals 3, the study recommends that structures should be put in place to ensure the use of technology and other related infrastructures, and commitment from both the public and private sectors to ensure the attainment of health and wellbeing for all Ghanaians by the year 2030.
The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operat... more The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operational performance. Using a sample of 212 healthcare facilities in the Accra Metropolitan Area, the study observed that user perceived usefulness and ease-of-use of healthcare supply chain management systems have positive impact on performance. It was also noticed that attitudes of the users of the healthcare supply chain management system do not mediate the linkage between perceived usefulness and healthcare supply chain performance but rather mediate the relationship between perceived ease-of-use and healthcare supply chain performance. As indicated in the United Nations Development Goals 3, the study recommends that structures should be put in place to ensure the use of technology and other related infrastructures, and commitment from both the public and private sectors to ensure the attainment of health and wellbeing for all Ghanaians by the year 2030.
This paper investigates how an integration of the concept of service into public procurement prac... more This paper investigates how an integration of the concept of service into public procurement practices in universities in Ghana could lead to performance improvement. With samples drawn from procurement practitioners of public universities in Ghana, the study adopts a qualitative approach based on the constant comparative analysis of interview data; deriving categories from composite concepts. At the end of the analysis process three ‘categories’ emerged - procurement practice, resource integration and networking, and information support systems for procurement practitioners. A careful evaluation of these ‘categories’ show that whereas an integration of the concept of service dominant logic into procurement practices could improve procurement performance in public universities in Ghana, bottlenecks such as minimal resource integration and networking; inadequate information support systems; and prohibitions on customer-supplier relationship building affect performance improvement. Th...
The paper investigates warehousing and material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana.... more The paper investigates warehousing and material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana. The purpose is to ascertain the level of transition from fully manual operations to the integration of technology in warehousing and material handling operations in selected Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Data were collected from 40 MMDAs cross the current 10 regions of Ghana. The study noted among others that, most warehouses lacked basic mechanical equipment for effective and efficient operations. Warehouse automation was completely non-existent in all selected Assemblies. In the case of material handling, the research discovered that very little effort has been made to equip employees with the requisite handling equipment for the execution of tasks. The study further revealed that there was virtually no in-service training on effective material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana. Indeed, practitioners most often use their bare hands and feet in...
International Journal of Procurement Management, 2015
Because of their role, position and assumed power in the financial process, procurement practitio... more Because of their role, position and assumed power in the financial process, procurement practitioners have been linked with corruption in the workplace. While there is research evidence to suggest the incidence of corruption in public procurement in Africa, the article identifies deeper root causes. The study investigates some traditional drivers of corruption in public procurement in Africa. The constant comparative analytic approach is used to analyse interview data. Our findings reveal that most procurement decisions are driven by political rather than managerial processes thereby diminishing the levels of authority and responsibility provided to practitioners. To surmount this challenge, practitioners must increase their level of education and expertise as this will offer them extended involvement in the decision making process. Regarding social pressures from families, this is in response to the complex cultural settings and perceptions, where the profession is linked with the ability to provide socio-economic needs of extended families.
Procurement reforms are seen as essential for achieving a long term improvement in financial mana... more Procurement reforms are seen as essential for achieving a long term improvement in financial management within Africa. To gain insight into this situation an analysis of success stories and cases where challenges and difficulties have arisen were investigated. This material was content analysed using Mayring (2008) four-step process model. The findings demonstrate some initial improvement within African public sector financial management; however the complete and successful implementation of these reforms is fraught with problems. These issues that limit improved financial management through procurement reform included; inadequate education and training, legislative constraints, especially those associated with procurement technology, and a lack of political support for the reform process. In political terms the study identified that the current political position coupled with socio-cultural sensitivities of participating countries, has created a neglect of ethical and environmental...
A little over a decade ago, Vargo and Lusch promoted S-D logic as an approach for understanding v... more A little over a decade ago, Vargo and Lusch promoted S-D logic as an approach for understanding value and its applicability to all sectors of economies and to the enhancement of efficiency and improved productivity. Despite the developing body of literature on S-D logic, the concept seems to remain in the hands of relatively few. This leaves the vast majority, especially academics and practitioners in Africa and other developing countries, in oblivion. Thus, the paper assesses the level of dissemination of S-D logic in the West African sub-region, and also examines the applicability of the logic to logistics and supply network management in the sub-region. The study adopts an exploratory qualitative approach on grounds that the area under study is relatively new and requires researcher engagement with participants to better understand the phenomenon under investigation. The findings show that all research participants interviewed had no prior knowledge about S-D logic's concepts...
The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researche... more The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researched. Within the procurement function, the role of service-dominant (S- D) logic is growing in interest. This thesis applies S-D logic to the procurement function in universities within a developing country context. The research investigates how the application of S-D logic into the procurement function can lead to improved procurement performance in universities. Emanating from the seminal work of Lusch and Vargo (2004a), S-D logic is perceived as a progressive business concept capable of creating value by transforming business processes and practices. Proponents of S-D logic argue that because firms do not possess all the resources necessary to be productive, there is the need to collaborate with other actors in business engagements to have shared access to resources in order to jointly create value (Vargo, 2008). The procurement function, a key component of supply network processes, ensures that goods and services are sourced and obtained. However, in order to ensure optimal performance processes need to be managed effectively. The procurement function in Ghana is transitioning from a back-office non-strategic activity to an effective socio- economic function, with the ability to influence decisions and create wealth for governments and the private sector alike (Knight et al, 2007). Addressing the research question: How can the application of S-D logic into the procurement function improve procurement performance in Ghanaian universities? the research adopts Strauss and Corbin’s (1990; 1998) grounded theory methodology with philosophical underpinnings based on symbolic interactionism, nominalism, and interpretivism worldviews. Data are collected through interviews and observations, and are analysed within 24 hours whenever possible. Identified concepts are built into composite concepts using the constant comparative approach (Strauss and Corbin, 1990; 1998). Selective coding is then used to build composite concepts into categories of description or themes. The core category of ‘improving procurement performance’ is developed through abstraction. The categories, sub-core categories and the core category through abstraction and creativity lead to the development of a substantive grounded theory of ‘procurement performance’. Empirically, applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities using grounded theory methodology i is an innovative approach as the literature suggests a paucity of research in this study area. Methodologically, the research contributes to a body of knowledge by using grounded theory to successfully conduct a research on applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, which according to extant literature is the first use of grounded theory in this area. The theoretical contribution of the research is the development of a substantive grounded theory of procurement performance. The substantive theory is also a Basic Social Process (BSP). The study reveals that private universities integrate their resources and engage in networking with key suppliers for their mutual benefit. S-D logic establishes the primacy of operant resources such as knowledge and competences as the fundamental source of competitive advantage (FP4). S-D logic argues that value-creating resources are not confined to the firm, and that customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders also constitute operant resources and hence contribute to value creation. S-D logic contends that value is always co-created with customers and others through interactions and collaborations (FP6). Thus, the co-creation of value incorporates the integration and application of resources from service providers and by beneficiaries (FP9) (Lusch and Vargo, 2008). This finding is significant because firms are evolving from largely self- contained hierarchical bureaucracies into complex networks of relationships with resource providers of all kinds (Achrol and Kotler, 1999; Lusch, Vargo, and Tanniru, 2010). Resource sharing and relational exchanges with key suppliers in public universities have been constrained by current procurement reforms undertaken by government. The lack of these exchanges increases procurement costs through multiple contracts administration, monitoring many suppliers’ performance, continuous education of suppliers on an institution’s processes and requirements (Mandiyambira, 2012). The resource based view (RBV) provides theoretical support for the significance of collaborations as a solution to exploit complementary capabilities to achieve competitive advantage. It argues that firms seek to develop competitive advantage through building relationships with other firms, and having a sound understanding of what the partner firm can bring to the collaboration (Barney, 1991). The current adversarial relationship between universities and suppliers is supported by Mandiyambira (2012), who…
The relational approach to marketing sets customer loyalty as a strategic tool given that many fi... more The relational approach to marketing sets customer loyalty as a strategic tool given that many firms have come to realize the economic importance of a loyal customer base. Most often than not financial institutions tend to depend on tangible resources to gain competitive advantage while placing less emphasis on intangible resources such as customer loyalty. Thus, the main motivation for conducting this research is to ascertain the mediating effect of customer loyalty on relationship marketing strategies and sustained competitive advantage. A questionnaire was extracted from relevant existing literature. It was administered on 300 bank relationship officers in Ghana with the underlying reason that they have what it takes to establish linkages among the various constructs. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to assess the impact of customer loyalty on relationship marketing strategies and sustained competitive advantage. The study revealed that, there is a positive relationship...
Sustainable development has become a major catchphrase in the policy and developmental agenda of ... more Sustainable development has become a major catchphrase in the policy and developmental agenda of most countries. Great strides have been made by Ghana regarding mainstream sustainability issues in its public procurement operations, however its adoption have been bedeviled with challenges that weaken the potency of sustainability efforts. 100 professionals across the public sector whose roles relate to sustainability were used in the study. A Principal Component Analysis was used to sieve the prime component factors that affect sustainable procurement implementation in the public sector. The study discovered an imbalance in knowledge and understanding of sustainable procurement among practitioners. Many respondents understood the concept from the environmental point of view with little knowledge about the social and economic pillars. In addition, seven principal components emerged as significant challenges that militate against the implementation of sustainable procurement in the public sector. The findings of this study offer a valuable position for experts and practitioners in the prioritization of obstacles that must be primarily considered to facilitate the implementation of sustainable procurement. Future researchers may adopt an interdisciplinary approach to address fully the triple bottom line-environmental, social, and economic components of sustainable procurement to enhance comprehensive understanding of the concept. Researchers are further challenged to investigate the effectiveness of Act 914 of 2016 and the adequacy of its provisions to address sustainability matters in public sector procurement in Ghana.
European Journal of Business and Management Research
Public universities in Ghana are funded by the state. In spite of this privilege, increased deman... more Public universities in Ghana are funded by the state. In spite of this privilege, increased demand for improved facilities and the need for the introduction of innovative and competitive programmes, coupled with intense competition from their private counterparts have increased the pressure on these universities to either innovate or risk being crowded out from the market. The purpose of the paper is to investigate branding strategies adopted by public universities and their effects on meeting stakeholder expectations. The study analysed branding strategies of six public universities in Ghana. The findings revealed that most public universities’ branding strategies focused mainly on improvement of physical infrastructure; the provision of state-of-the-art laboratories; broad band internet services; the introduction of market driven programmes; the mounting of huge signposts and pull-up banners among others. Indeed, the research revealed that the ultimate goal of branding these insti...
Journal of operations and strategic planning, May 28, 2024
This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the r... more This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the relationship between supply chain collaboration (SCC) and supply chain performance (SCP) of smallholder agro-based enterprises (SAEs). Based on the relational view and dynamic capability theories and the survey research design, the author used questionnaires to gather data from 226 SAEs who were sampled from agribusiness associations in four regions of Ghana via the quota sampling technique. Smart PLS-SEM 4.0 was used as the statistical method to analyze the data. The results showed that SCC has a significant and positive relationship with SCP, innovation capacity, and BPA. Innovation capacity significantly mediates the relationship between SCC and SCP. Furthermore, BPA fully mediates the relationship between SCC and innovation capacity, with innovation capacity also influencing SCP. This study integrates relational and capability-based views to propose a comprehensive theoretical model showing the inter-relational effect of SCC, BPA, and innovation capacity on SCP. The empirical findings widen the context of SCC literature to include SAEs from emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa. The empirical findings enrich the understanding of how SAEs can manage their SCCs to develop and use specific capabilities that positively impact SCP. The uniqueness of this article rests in the proposed model and new empirical knowledge, which extends the scope of the relational and capabilitybased views and SCC literature to include innovation capacity, BPA, and SCP of SAEs in emerging markets.
Journal of Operations and Strategic Planning, 2024
This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the r... more This article examines the role of innovation capacity and business process agility (BPA) in the relationship between supply chain collaboration (SCC) and supply chain performance (SCP) of smallholder agro-based enterprises (SAEs). Based on the relational view and dynamic capability theories and the survey research design, the author used questionnaires to gather data from 226 SAEs who were sampled from agribusiness associations in four regions of Ghana via the quota sampling technique. Smart PLS-SEM 4.0 was used as the statistical method to analyze the data. The results showed that SCC has a significant and positive relationship with SCP, innovation capacity, and BPA. Innovation capacity significantly mediates the relationship between SCC and SCP. Furthermore, BPA fully mediates the relationship between SCC and innovation capacity, with innovation capacity also influencing SCP. This study integrates relational and capability-based views to propose a comprehensive theoretical model showing the inter-relational effect of SCC, BPA, and innovation capacity on SCP. The empirical findings widen the context of SCC literature to include SAEs from emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa. The empirical findings enrich the understanding of how SAEs can manage their SCCs to develop and use specific capabilities that positively impact SCP. The uniqueness of this article rests in the proposed model and new empirical knowledge, which extends the scope of the relational and capabilitybased views and SCC literature to include innovation capacity, BPA, and SCP of SAEs in emerging markets.
This paper examines the role of supply chain collaboration in the relationship between supply cha... more This paper examines the role of supply chain collaboration in the relationship between supply chain intelligence and operational performance. A sample of 400 small and medium enterprises in Ghana were used to address the research objectives. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling. The findings of the study revealed that, supply chain intelligence positively impacts the operational performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Ghana. Additionally, the study found that supply chain collaboration plays a significant role in enhancing the operational performance of SMEs in Ghana. Finally, the analysis of the study concludes that supply chain collaboration further plays a significant mediating role in increasing the impact of supply chain intelligence and operational performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Ghana. The study is significant because, the findings would help expand existing literature on supply chain intelligence, supply chain collaboration and operational performance, thereby having positive implications on theory, policy, and practice.
Journal of Operations and Strategic Planning, 2023
This article brings to light the powerful connection between supply chain agility (SCA) and lean ... more This article brings to light the powerful connection between supply chain agility (SCA) and lean marketing as tools for gaining competitive advantage in this modern era of business. For organizations, achieving a competitive advantage is of the highest importance. Businesses use a variety of techniques to position themselves against their rivals as a result of rising competition. The study also looked at how SCA and firm competitiveness are moderated and mediated by lean marketing. In Ghana, information was gathered from 225 businesses via a questionnaire-based survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data obtained. The study demonstrated that the relationship between SCA and competitive advantage is highly influenced by lean marketing. The findings highlighted that lean marketing partially mediates the connotation between SCA and competitive advantage, while the moderating variables revealed that lean marketing has a significant ...
This paper sought to investigate logistics preparedness of Ghanaian institutions during health em... more This paper sought to investigate logistics preparedness of Ghanaian institutions during health emergencies.Two hundred and fifty-seven (257) respondents drawn from the security and other agencies within the EffutuMunicipality in the Central region of Ghana constituted the sample size. The authors used structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the study's model and hypotheses. The study revealed that, the availability of logistical support during emergencies is inadequate for efficient emergency management. Regarding logistical preparedness of health professionals and security agencies, there is much needs to be doneto attain the minimum acceptable standards. The study further discovered that logistical resources are critical to the collaborative effort of health workers and security agencies. However, it was evident that collaboration among institutions does not necessarily enhance the success of emergency management.The study is significant because the steady rise in Ghana's population coupled with urbanization has brought in its wake challenges that successive governments have struggled to surmount.The occurrence of frequent disasters meant that a study of this nature is important to bring to the fore the human and material costs, thus awakening the sensitivities of policy makers and authorities mandated to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the citizenry.
The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operat... more The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operational performance. Using a sample of 212 healthcare facilities in the Accra Metropolitan Area, the study observed that user perceived usefulness and ease-of-use of healthcare supply chain management systems have positive impact on performance. It was also noticed that attitudes of the users of the healthcare supply chain management system do not mediate the linkage between perceived usefulness and healthcare supply chain performance but rather mediate the relationship between perceived ease-of-use and healthcare supply chain performance. As indicated in the United Nations Development Goals 3, the study recommends that structures should be put in place to ensure the use of technology and other related infrastructures, and commitment from both the public and private sectors to ensure the attainment of health and wellbeing for all Ghanaians by the year 2030.
The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operat... more The study investigates how integrating technology into the healthcare Supply Chain affects operational performance. Using a sample of 212 healthcare facilities in the Accra Metropolitan Area, the study observed that user perceived usefulness and ease-of-use of healthcare supply chain management systems have positive impact on performance. It was also noticed that attitudes of the users of the healthcare supply chain management system do not mediate the linkage between perceived usefulness and healthcare supply chain performance but rather mediate the relationship between perceived ease-of-use and healthcare supply chain performance. As indicated in the United Nations Development Goals 3, the study recommends that structures should be put in place to ensure the use of technology and other related infrastructures, and commitment from both the public and private sectors to ensure the attainment of health and wellbeing for all Ghanaians by the year 2030.
This paper investigates how an integration of the concept of service into public procurement prac... more This paper investigates how an integration of the concept of service into public procurement practices in universities in Ghana could lead to performance improvement. With samples drawn from procurement practitioners of public universities in Ghana, the study adopts a qualitative approach based on the constant comparative analysis of interview data; deriving categories from composite concepts. At the end of the analysis process three ‘categories’ emerged - procurement practice, resource integration and networking, and information support systems for procurement practitioners. A careful evaluation of these ‘categories’ show that whereas an integration of the concept of service dominant logic into procurement practices could improve procurement performance in public universities in Ghana, bottlenecks such as minimal resource integration and networking; inadequate information support systems; and prohibitions on customer-supplier relationship building affect performance improvement. Th...
The paper investigates warehousing and material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana.... more The paper investigates warehousing and material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana. The purpose is to ascertain the level of transition from fully manual operations to the integration of technology in warehousing and material handling operations in selected Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Data were collected from 40 MMDAs cross the current 10 regions of Ghana. The study noted among others that, most warehouses lacked basic mechanical equipment for effective and efficient operations. Warehouse automation was completely non-existent in all selected Assemblies. In the case of material handling, the research discovered that very little effort has been made to equip employees with the requisite handling equipment for the execution of tasks. The study further revealed that there was virtually no in-service training on effective material handling practices in the civil service of Ghana. Indeed, practitioners most often use their bare hands and feet in...
International Journal of Procurement Management, 2015
Because of their role, position and assumed power in the financial process, procurement practitio... more Because of their role, position and assumed power in the financial process, procurement practitioners have been linked with corruption in the workplace. While there is research evidence to suggest the incidence of corruption in public procurement in Africa, the article identifies deeper root causes. The study investigates some traditional drivers of corruption in public procurement in Africa. The constant comparative analytic approach is used to analyse interview data. Our findings reveal that most procurement decisions are driven by political rather than managerial processes thereby diminishing the levels of authority and responsibility provided to practitioners. To surmount this challenge, practitioners must increase their level of education and expertise as this will offer them extended involvement in the decision making process. Regarding social pressures from families, this is in response to the complex cultural settings and perceptions, where the profession is linked with the ability to provide socio-economic needs of extended families.
Procurement reforms are seen as essential for achieving a long term improvement in financial mana... more Procurement reforms are seen as essential for achieving a long term improvement in financial management within Africa. To gain insight into this situation an analysis of success stories and cases where challenges and difficulties have arisen were investigated. This material was content analysed using Mayring (2008) four-step process model. The findings demonstrate some initial improvement within African public sector financial management; however the complete and successful implementation of these reforms is fraught with problems. These issues that limit improved financial management through procurement reform included; inadequate education and training, legislative constraints, especially those associated with procurement technology, and a lack of political support for the reform process. In political terms the study identified that the current political position coupled with socio-cultural sensitivities of participating countries, has created a neglect of ethical and environmental...
A little over a decade ago, Vargo and Lusch promoted S-D logic as an approach for understanding v... more A little over a decade ago, Vargo and Lusch promoted S-D logic as an approach for understanding value and its applicability to all sectors of economies and to the enhancement of efficiency and improved productivity. Despite the developing body of literature on S-D logic, the concept seems to remain in the hands of relatively few. This leaves the vast majority, especially academics and practitioners in Africa and other developing countries, in oblivion. Thus, the paper assesses the level of dissemination of S-D logic in the West African sub-region, and also examines the applicability of the logic to logistics and supply network management in the sub-region. The study adopts an exploratory qualitative approach on grounds that the area under study is relatively new and requires researcher engagement with participants to better understand the phenomenon under investigation. The findings show that all research participants interviewed had no prior knowledge about S-D logic's concepts...
The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researche... more The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researched. Within the procurement function, the role of service-dominant (S- D) logic is growing in interest. This thesis applies S-D logic to the procurement function in universities within a developing country context. The research investigates how the application of S-D logic into the procurement function can lead to improved procurement performance in universities. Emanating from the seminal work of Lusch and Vargo (2004a), S-D logic is perceived as a progressive business concept capable of creating value by transforming business processes and practices. Proponents of S-D logic argue that because firms do not possess all the resources necessary to be productive, there is the need to collaborate with other actors in business engagements to have shared access to resources in order to jointly create value (Vargo, 2008). The procurement function, a key component of supply network processes, ensures that goods and services are sourced and obtained. However, in order to ensure optimal performance processes need to be managed effectively. The procurement function in Ghana is transitioning from a back-office non-strategic activity to an effective socio- economic function, with the ability to influence decisions and create wealth for governments and the private sector alike (Knight et al, 2007). Addressing the research question: How can the application of S-D logic into the procurement function improve procurement performance in Ghanaian universities? the research adopts Strauss and Corbin’s (1990; 1998) grounded theory methodology with philosophical underpinnings based on symbolic interactionism, nominalism, and interpretivism worldviews. Data are collected through interviews and observations, and are analysed within 24 hours whenever possible. Identified concepts are built into composite concepts using the constant comparative approach (Strauss and Corbin, 1990; 1998). Selective coding is then used to build composite concepts into categories of description or themes. The core category of ‘improving procurement performance’ is developed through abstraction. The categories, sub-core categories and the core category through abstraction and creativity lead to the development of a substantive grounded theory of ‘procurement performance’. Empirically, applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities using grounded theory methodology i is an innovative approach as the literature suggests a paucity of research in this study area. Methodologically, the research contributes to a body of knowledge by using grounded theory to successfully conduct a research on applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, which according to extant literature is the first use of grounded theory in this area. The theoretical contribution of the research is the development of a substantive grounded theory of procurement performance. The substantive theory is also a Basic Social Process (BSP). The study reveals that private universities integrate their resources and engage in networking with key suppliers for their mutual benefit. S-D logic establishes the primacy of operant resources such as knowledge and competences as the fundamental source of competitive advantage (FP4). S-D logic argues that value-creating resources are not confined to the firm, and that customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders also constitute operant resources and hence contribute to value creation. S-D logic contends that value is always co-created with customers and others through interactions and collaborations (FP6). Thus, the co-creation of value incorporates the integration and application of resources from service providers and by beneficiaries (FP9) (Lusch and Vargo, 2008). This finding is significant because firms are evolving from largely self- contained hierarchical bureaucracies into complex networks of relationships with resource providers of all kinds (Achrol and Kotler, 1999; Lusch, Vargo, and Tanniru, 2010). Resource sharing and relational exchanges with key suppliers in public universities have been constrained by current procurement reforms undertaken by government. The lack of these exchanges increases procurement costs through multiple contracts administration, monitoring many suppliers’ performance, continuous education of suppliers on an institution’s processes and requirements (Mandiyambira, 2012). The resource based view (RBV) provides theoretical support for the significance of collaborations as a solution to exploit complementary capabilities to achieve competitive advantage. It argues that firms seek to develop competitive advantage through building relationships with other firms, and having a sound understanding of what the partner firm can bring to the collaboration (Barney, 1991). The current adversarial relationship between universities and suppliers is supported by Mandiyambira (2012), who…
The relational approach to marketing sets customer loyalty as a strategic tool given that many fi... more The relational approach to marketing sets customer loyalty as a strategic tool given that many firms have come to realize the economic importance of a loyal customer base. Most often than not financial institutions tend to depend on tangible resources to gain competitive advantage while placing less emphasis on intangible resources such as customer loyalty. Thus, the main motivation for conducting this research is to ascertain the mediating effect of customer loyalty on relationship marketing strategies and sustained competitive advantage. A questionnaire was extracted from relevant existing literature. It was administered on 300 bank relationship officers in Ghana with the underlying reason that they have what it takes to establish linkages among the various constructs. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to assess the impact of customer loyalty on relationship marketing strategies and sustained competitive advantage. The study revealed that, there is a positive relationship...
Sustainable development has become a major catchphrase in the policy and developmental agenda of ... more Sustainable development has become a major catchphrase in the policy and developmental agenda of most countries. Great strides have been made by Ghana regarding mainstream sustainability issues in its public procurement operations, however its adoption have been bedeviled with challenges that weaken the potency of sustainability efforts. 100 professionals across the public sector whose roles relate to sustainability were used in the study. A Principal Component Analysis was used to sieve the prime component factors that affect sustainable procurement implementation in the public sector. The study discovered an imbalance in knowledge and understanding of sustainable procurement among practitioners. Many respondents understood the concept from the environmental point of view with little knowledge about the social and economic pillars. In addition, seven principal components emerged as significant challenges that militate against the implementation of sustainable procurement in the public sector. The findings of this study offer a valuable position for experts and practitioners in the prioritization of obstacles that must be primarily considered to facilitate the implementation of sustainable procurement. Future researchers may adopt an interdisciplinary approach to address fully the triple bottom line-environmental, social, and economic components of sustainable procurement to enhance comprehensive understanding of the concept. Researchers are further challenged to investigate the effectiveness of Act 914 of 2016 and the adequacy of its provisions to address sustainability matters in public sector procurement in Ghana.
European Journal of Business and Management Research
Public universities in Ghana are funded by the state. In spite of this privilege, increased deman... more Public universities in Ghana are funded by the state. In spite of this privilege, increased demand for improved facilities and the need for the introduction of innovative and competitive programmes, coupled with intense competition from their private counterparts have increased the pressure on these universities to either innovate or risk being crowded out from the market. The purpose of the paper is to investigate branding strategies adopted by public universities and their effects on meeting stakeholder expectations. The study analysed branding strategies of six public universities in Ghana. The findings revealed that most public universities’ branding strategies focused mainly on improvement of physical infrastructure; the provision of state-of-the-art laboratories; broad band internet services; the introduction of market driven programmes; the mounting of huge signposts and pull-up banners among others. Indeed, the research revealed that the ultimate goal of branding these insti...
The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researche... more The procurement function of universities in most developing countries has not been well researched. Within the procurement function, the role of service-dominant (S- D) logic is growing in interest. This thesis applies S-D logic to the procurement function in universities within a developing country context. The research investigates how the application of S-D logic into the procurement function can lead to improved procurement performance in universities. Emanating from the seminal work of Lusch and Vargo (2004a), S-D logic is perceived as a progressive business concept capable of creating value by transforming business processes and practices. Proponents of S-D logic argue that because firms do not possess all the resources necessary to be productive, there is the need to collaborate with other actors in business engagements to have shared access to resources in order to jointly create value (Vargo, 2008). The procurement function, a key component of supply network processes, ensures that goods and services are sourced and obtained. However, in order to ensure optimal performance processes need to be managed effectively. The procurement function in Ghana is transitioning from a back-office non-strategic activity to an effective socio- economic function, with the ability to influence decisions and create wealth for governments and the private sector alike (Knight et al, 2007). Addressing the research question: How can the application of S-D logic into the procurement function improve procurement performance in Ghanaian universities? the research adopts Strauss and Corbin’s (1990; 1998) grounded theory methodology with philosophical underpinnings based on symbolic interactionism, nominalism, and interpretivism worldviews. Data are collected through interviews and observations, and are analysed within 24 hours whenever possible. Identified concepts are built into composite concepts using the constant comparative approach (Strauss and Corbin, 1990; 1998). Selective coding is then used to build composite concepts into categories of description or themes. The core category of ‘improving procurement performance’ is developed through abstraction. The categories, sub-core categories and the core category through abstraction and creativity lead to the development of a substantive grounded theory of ‘procurement performance’. Empirically, applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities using grounded theory methodology i is an innovative approach as the literature suggests a paucity of research in this study area. Methodologically, the research contributes to a body of knowledge by using grounded theory to successfully conduct a research on applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, which according to extant literature is the first use of grounded theory in this area. The theoretical contribution of the research is the development of a substantive grounded theory of procurement performance. The substantive theory is also a Basic Social Process (BSP). The study reveals that private universities integrate their resources and engage in networking with key suppliers for their mutual benefit. S-D logic establishes the primacy of operant resources such as knowledge and competences as the fundamental source of competitive advantage (FP4). S-D logic argues that value-creating resources are not confined to the firm, and that customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders also constitute operant resources and hence contribute to value creation. S-D logic contends that value is always co-created with customers and others through interactions and collaborations (FP6). Thus, the co-creation of value incorporates the integration and application of resources from service providers and by beneficiaries (FP9) (Lusch and Vargo, 2008). This finding is significant because firms are evolving from largely self- contained hierarchical bureaucracies into complex networks of relationships with resource providers of all kinds (Achrol and Kotler, 1999; Lusch, Vargo, and Tanniru, 2010). Resource sharing and relational exchanges with key suppliers in public universities have been constrained by current procurement reforms undertaken by government. The lack of these exchanges increases procurement costs through multiple contracts administration, monitoring many suppliers’ performance, continuous education of suppliers on an institution’s processes and requirements (Mandiyambira, 2012). The resource based view (RBV) provides theoretical support for the significance of collaborations as a solution to exploit complementary capabilities to achieve competitive advantage. It argues that firms seek to develop competitive advantage through building relationships with other firms, and having a sound understanding of what the partner firm can bring to the collaboration (Barney, 1991). The current adversarial relationship between universities and suppliers is supported by Mandiyambira (2012), who argues that most public institutions in developing countries ii adopts procurement systems which are based on adversarial relationships with suppliers. This kind of relationship does not engender value for money, the core principle governing procurement in Ghana (Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines, 2005). FP6 of S-D logic argues that the customer is a co-creator of value, implying that value creation is interactional between the supplier and customer. FP7 affirms this position explaining that because firms cannot create value independently, but can only offer value propositions, collaboration and relationship management becomes essential. Because value is ultimately determined by the beneficiary (FP10), or in this case the university, collaborating with suppliers will ensure a quality value proposition leading to better value for money spent. Having successfully applied S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, further research could examine the logic’s application to other areas of economies such as customer service, transport logistics, materials management, and student supply networks.
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Addressing the research question: How can the application of S-D logic into the procurement function improve procurement performance in Ghanaian universities? the research adopts Strauss and Corbin’s (1990; 1998) grounded theory methodology with philosophical underpinnings based on symbolic interactionism, nominalism, and interpretivism worldviews. Data are collected through interviews and observations, and are analysed within 24 hours whenever possible. Identified concepts are built into composite concepts using the constant comparative approach (Strauss and Corbin, 1990; 1998). Selective coding is then used to build composite concepts into categories of description or themes. The core category of ‘improving procurement performance’ is developed through abstraction. The categories, sub-core categories and the core category through abstraction and creativity lead to the development of a substantive grounded theory of ‘procurement performance’. Empirically, applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities using grounded theory methodology
i
is an innovative approach as the literature suggests a paucity of research in this study area. Methodologically, the research contributes to a body of knowledge by using grounded theory to successfully conduct a research on applying S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, which according to extant literature is the first use of grounded theory in this area. The theoretical contribution of the research is the development of a substantive grounded theory of procurement performance. The substantive theory is also a Basic Social Process (BSP).
The study reveals that private universities integrate their resources and engage in networking with key suppliers for their mutual benefit. S-D logic establishes the primacy of operant resources such as knowledge and competences as the fundamental source of competitive advantage (FP4). S-D logic argues that value-creating resources are not confined to the firm, and that customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders also constitute operant resources and hence contribute to value creation. S-D logic contends that value is always co-created with customers and others through interactions and collaborations (FP6). Thus, the co-creation of value incorporates the integration and application of resources from service providers and by beneficiaries (FP9) (Lusch and Vargo, 2008). This finding is significant because firms are evolving from largely self- contained hierarchical bureaucracies into complex networks of relationships with resource providers of all kinds (Achrol and Kotler, 1999; Lusch, Vargo, and Tanniru, 2010).
Resource sharing and relational exchanges with key suppliers in public universities have been constrained by current procurement reforms undertaken by government. The lack of these exchanges increases procurement costs through multiple contracts administration, monitoring many suppliers’ performance, continuous education of suppliers on an institution’s processes and requirements (Mandiyambira, 2012). The resource based view (RBV) provides theoretical support for the significance of collaborations as a solution to exploit complementary capabilities to achieve competitive advantage. It argues that firms seek to develop competitive advantage through building relationships with other firms, and having a sound understanding of what the partner firm can bring to the collaboration (Barney, 1991). The current adversarial relationship between universities and suppliers is supported by Mandiyambira (2012), who argues that most public institutions in developing countries
ii
adopts procurement systems which are based on adversarial relationships with suppliers. This kind of relationship does not engender value for money, the core principle governing procurement in Ghana (Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines, 2005). FP6 of S-D logic argues that the customer is a co-creator of value, implying that value creation is interactional between the supplier and customer. FP7 affirms this position explaining that because firms cannot create value independently, but can only offer value propositions, collaboration and relationship management becomes essential. Because value is ultimately determined by the beneficiary (FP10), or in this case the university, collaborating with suppliers will ensure a quality value proposition leading to better value for money spent.
Having successfully applied S-D logic into the procurement function in Ghanaian universities, further research could examine the logic’s application to other areas of economies such as customer service, transport logistics, materials management, and student supply networks.