Research Title: The antecedents of supply chain performance: Business analytics, business process orientation, and information systems support

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2022

Uncertain Supply Chain Management,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of business analytics (BA) on supply chain performance (SCP) in Saudi industrial companies. It also investigates the mediating impact of information systems supporting (ISS) and business process orientation (BPO). A total of 373 respondents working in 38 manufacturing companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) were selected. A scale with acceptable validity and reliability indicators was developed to measure the study variables. The results indicated significant indirect impact of the business analytics (planning, supply, make, delivery) on supply chain performance as ISS and BPO mediate this impact. Based on the results, a set of recommendations were proposed, industrial companies in KSA must develop the analytical capabilities for managers by increasing awareness of the benefits achieved from using business analytics approaches. It is a critical precedent for supply chain SC efficiency, and for companies to enhance their analytical capabilities with good ISS and process orientation to utilize in analyzing vast amounts of internal and external data. Directions for future research are also presented in this paper.

Keywords: Supply Chain, Supply Chain Performance, Business Analytics, Saudi Arabia, Information Systems Support

Research Title: The mediating role of brand credibility between social media influencers and patronage intentions

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2022

International Journal of Data and Network Science,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This study aims to examine how Social Media Influencers (SMIs) influence patronage intentions (PI) through the influence of mediation on the brand credibility (BC) in the electronic devices sector in Jordan. Furthermore, the data were obtained by an online questionnaire based on Google Forms and a total of 315 followers in Jordan using an appropriate sampling method. structural equation modeling using Smart PLS 3 was used to investigate the relationships between SMIs, brand credibility, and patronage intentions (PI). The results indicated that SMIs directly influence PI and BC. BC Partially mediates the relationship between SMIs and PI. Research limitations in this study focus on a single sector electronic device at a specific location in Jordan. Future research may conduct cross-cultural studies to improve the generalizability of the present research findings.

Keywords: Social Media Influencers Brand credibility Ewom Repurchase intention Patronage intentions

Research Title: The effect of social media influencers on purchase intention: Examining the mediating role of brand attitude

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2023

International Journal of Data and Network Science,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: The rapid growth of social media platforms has revolutionized marketing communications, and the recent trend of how people use social media led to the inception of the term "influencer marketing" as an increasingly popular approach for brands across markets. This development has been driven by the unparalleled increase in influencers’ presence on social media platforms, which has generated new venues for companies to connect with their desired demographic and interact with them in a more genuine and significant manner. Understanding the factors that drive the effectiveness of influencers has become increasingly important for both marketers and researchers. Numerous studies have been conducted on the topic of celebrity endorsements. However, the use of "traditional" celebrities is losing its appeal in the digital era of social media, as brands increasingly turn to social media influencers instead. Nonetheless, there is still a lack of understanding about how marketers can effectively utilize this new marketing phenomenon. This study aims to examine the role of trustworthiness, expertise, and information quality of social media influencers in shaping consumer purchase intention, with a specific focus on the mediating role of brand attitude. A total of 309 complete responses were collected via convenience sampling between January and February 2023 then the model examined by using SPSS and AMOS software. The results showed that all attributes of the influencers are affecting brand attitude as well as purchase intention, while brand attitude partially mediated the relationships. Implications, limitations and future research have also been discussed.

Keywords: Influencer marketing Brand attitude Purchase intention Trustworthiness Expertise Information quality

Research Title: Assessing the nexus between knowledge management and firm performance: A data article

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2021

Data in Brief,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This data article highlights the contingent role of company size in the relationship between knowledge management practices and firm performance. It also investigates the possible direct impact of these practices on performance. Data was collected from managers in large and medium-sized industrial companies in Jordan, using a self-administered questionnaire. 170 responses were obtained, 91 from medium-sized companies and 79 from large companies. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to ensure the validity and reliability of the measurement model. Multiple group structural equation modeling was used to check for significant differences in the path coefficients of the research model. The fitness indicators of the multi-group model showed that there was no significant difference in the interpretation of the measurement model; also, the path model was equivalent for both large and medium-sized companies. Testing the hypotheses showed that the application of knowledge has the greatest explanatory power for performance, whether in medium or large companies; however, for knowledge capturing the explanatory power on performance was only for medium-sized companies, and there was no effect on large companies. Moreover, the acquisition and sharing of knowledge had no statistically significant effect on performance in either group.

Keywords: Knowledge managementFirm performanceMedium-sized and large companiesMulti-group analysisGroup invarianceJordan

Research Title: The effect of market-sensing capability on knowledge creation process and innovation Evidence from SMEs in Jordan

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2019

Management Science Letters ,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This article aims to investigate the effect of market-sensing capability among knowledge creation and process and product innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Jordan. We propose that market-sensing capability will influence knowledge creation and process as well as product innovation. The study develops a model that contributes to the flourishing marketing management literature, i.e. the higher the knowledge creation, the higher the performance of SMEs. Data are collated from valid (n=304) respondents of Jordanian SMEs. The study uses structural equation modeling (SEM) to explore the analysis and the results indicate a positive effect of market-sensing capability on knowledge creation, and process and product innovation. Knowledge creation process has also maintained a positive effect on process and product innovation. Knowledge creation process mediated the link between market-sensing capability and process and product innovation. The study suggests that market sensing abilities of an enterprise are important for SME’s improvement which requires learning-positioning for firm effectiveness. In addition, managers need to harmonize their procedures concerning market sensing and learning. Future study can streamline the findings with a longitudinal design and insights can be acquired by exploring the impact of environmental factors surrounding strategic entrepreneurial orientation.

Keywords: Market-sensing Innovations Knowledge management

Research Title: Data to model the effects of perceived telecommunication service quality and value on the degree of user satisfaction and e-WOM among telecommunications users in North Cyprus

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2020

Data in Brief,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This dataset is used to investigate a comprehensive model of user satisfaction and electronic word of mouth (e-WOM). Building on the perceived telecommunication service quality and perceived value dimensions in enhancing and improving users' satisfaction and e-WOM, we empirically investigated how the dimensions of service quality as a second-order construct and perceived value dimensions affect users’ satisfaction and e-WOM in the context of mobile operators in North Cyprus. The data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire at Girne American University. The dataset was empirically evaluated using a survey of 500 respondents regarding their perceptions of the service provided by the mobile telecom operator. Data analysis involved structural equation modelling (SEM) using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 23 and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) 24. First, we conducted exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural modelling, followed by hypothesis testing. The outcomes obtained from this dataset indicated that perceived telecommunication service quality was positively related to perceived value dimensions (performance value and emotional value) and user satisfaction. At the same time, performance value, value for money, and social value were found to have a direct impact on user satisfaction. Specifically, there was a significant relationship between user satisfaction and e-WOM. The results may provide further insights into mobile value-added services.

Keywords: Service qualityPerceived valueUser satisfactione-WOMMobile value-added services

Research Title: The effect of electronic word of mouth communication on purchase intention and brand image: An applicant smartphone brands in North Cyprus

Author: Muneer Mujalli Abdel-Muti AlRwashdeh, Published Year: 2019

Management Science Letters ,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This study aims to examine the effects of electronic word of mouth communication (eWOM) among consumers on purchase intention and brand image, specifically, Generation Y and Z groups in relation to smartphone brands. The study utilizes an empirical research model using data collected from 402 valid respondents among consumers who use smartphone brands in North Cyprus. The study uses structural equation modeling (SEM) to explore and conduct the analysis. The results confirm the significant effects of eWOM on purchase intention through brand image and the moderating role of product type among eWOM, purchase intentions and brand image. The study also recommends that firms and marketers must concentrate on online communication channels to affect consumers’ intention toward purchasing brands and brand image. Moreover, the current study model suggests that future study can be extended in different context, countries (i.e. developed, emerging, developing), industries (i.e. banks, e-commerce, tourism) and different social me-dia platforms sites (i.e. Facebook, Twitter).

Keywords: Electronic word of mouth communication, Purchase intention, Brand image, Product type, Smartphone brands

Research Title: Artificial intelligence applications for enhancing organizational excellence: Modifying role of supply chain agility

Author: Mohammad Mahmoud AbdulMajeed Al-Nadi, Published Year: 2024

Problems and Perspectives in Management, 22

Faculty: Business

Abstract: The study’s goal was to demonstrate the modifying role of supply chain agility in the impact of artificial intelligence applications on organizational excellence in Jordanian e-commerce companies. The analytical and descriptive approach was adopted. The study population consisted of 160 companies operating in the e-commerce sector in Jordan. The sample comprised 400 respondents working in senior and middle management positions. The questionnaire was utilized to collect the data. The results showed an impact of artificial intelligence applications in all dimensions (expert systems and neural networks) on the organizational excellence of e-commerce companies in Jordan. The value of the adjusted coefficient of determination (Adj. R2) was. 265%. Based on the model’s F value (4.1190) and its level of significance (P; 0.00), the impact of these techniques on organizational excellence is statistically significant. Additionally, the results displayed an impact of supply chain agility on improving the impact of artificial intelligence applications on organizational excellence. The value of the degree of influence ß after introducing the modified variable supply chain agility and the value of R Square increased by. 11 at the significance level (Sig).= 0.000. This study recommended training workers to stay up to date with developments in artificial intelligence, expert systems, and neural networks in their operations, control of searching for this evidence within databases, and knowledge representation.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, organizational excellence

Research Title: Leadership behaviours for Lean Six Sigma: Jordan as a case study

Author: Mohammad Mahmoud AbdulMajeed Al-Nadi, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Business

Abstract: Purpose This paper aims to identify leadership behaviours in the manufacturing sector in Jordan that enable successful Lean Six Sigma implementation. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative data were collected through 27 interviews to identify the leadership behaviours that facilitate Lean Six Sigma and a focus group to categorise the aspects by grouping them into themes. A grounded theory approach was used in the field study. The processes of constant comparisons helped in identifying the relevant aspects of leadership behaviours and integrating specific aspects into themes; these processes were iteratives. Therefore, this research project relies on the grounded theory methodology to collect and analyse the data. The authors also used a focus group to categorise the aspects by grouping them into themes. In that, the aspects were grouped around core categories. Findings After analysing the data, 36 aspects have emerged. The data analysis processes helped in discovering the aspects of leadership that support the use of Lean Six Sigma in the manufacturing sector in Jordan. The aspects were developed through an iterative process of analysis until the saturation level was reached. Eight themes that influence the successful use of Lean Six Sigma emerged: Training and development; Continuous improvement and development; Communication; Empowering employees; Motivating employees; Managing qualities and operations; Employees engagement and involvement; and Supporting culture Research limitations/implications There are some research limitations to this study, which opens avenues for future research. First, the data was collected through qualitative methods, which limits the generalizability of the results. Future studies are needed to generalize the results to the wider business community. Second, the data was collected only from manufacturing organizations and did not consider other sectors. Future researchers are urged to replicate the study in other sectors. Third, this study considered only Jordanian firms; therefore, the authors call upon further research to investigate other national settings that may have a different business culture. Practical implications This study encourages businesses to follow and adopt these behaviours in organisations, which can help in developing desirable behaviours among leaders to reach advanced levels in using Lean Six Sigma. Moreover, practitioners can develop training programmes for developing leaders. Thus, the Lean Six Sigma journey can become smoother by addressing the issues that face practitioners during the different phases of implementing Lean Six Sigma. In that respect, the practical implication of this research is to describe the practices that the leadership of organisations must develop to maintain high levels of Lean Six Sigma deployment. Originality/value Scholarly studies in this field are scarce, especially in developing countries, so identifying the leadership behaviours can help researchers create a theory of leadership behaviours for Lean Six Sigma. Furthermore, practitioners of Lean Six Sigma can take into account these behaviours as crucial to the effective use of Lean Six Sigma. They can encourage leaders to follow and adopt these behaviours in organisations which can help in developing desirable behaviours among leaders to reach advanced levels in using Lean Six Sigma. Thus, the Lean Six Sigma journey can become smoother by addressing the issues that practitioners face during the different phases of implementing Lean Six Sigma.

Keywords: Lean Six Sigma

Research Title: ANFIS-based Mathematical Model of Mechanical Ventilator

Author: Mustafa Awwad Al Khawaldeh, Published Year: 2024

2024 17th International Conference on Development in eSystem Engineering (DeSE) , University of Sharjah, UAE

Faculty: Engineering and Technology

Abstract: The modern industrial revolution and the spread of viruses have resulted in an increase in respiratory diseases and lung cancers. These problems arouse the interest in research on artificial respirators and their mechanism of operation and control. Designing a mathematical model of mechanical ventilator helps in demonstrating its behaviour during the process of artificial ventilation. To address this research problem, this study aims to validate the impact of a newly developed mechanical ventilator model on patient’s lungs. It compares the new ANFIS-based model with an existing mathematical model of mechanical ventilator. The simulation of both ventilators in Matlab includes certain parameters namely respiratory rate (RR), positive end-expiatory pressure(PEEP), tidal volume and pressure wave. The developed model demonstrates high accuracy in comparison with the existing model. Changing one of these parameters reveals its influence on the lungs’ volume, flow and PV loop. The MATLAB simulation constitutes a uncomplicated environment for testing and observation respiration parameters (flow, dynamic compliance and volume) during artificial ventilation. The simulation results are promising as this facilitates studying any type of ventilation modes virtually without jeopardizing the life of mankind during clinical trials.

Keywords: ANFIS-based Mathematical model, transfer function, mechanical ventilator, lung model, MATLAB Simulink.