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Design and fabrication of a novel 4D-printed customized hand orthosis to treat cerebral palsy
(2024)
Exploring Employer Attractiveness: A Qualitative Study of Generation Z Business Students in Germany
(2024)
Employers are facing difficulties in attracting and recruiting employees due to the demographic change in Germany, the resulting retirement of Baby Boomers and the labor force shortage. The focus currently lies on Generation Z which is about to enter the labor market and which’s values, requirements and needs differ significantly from those of previous generations. This thesis aims to identify the requirements Generation Z has of employers by answering the research question: “What are the specific requirements that employers must meet in order to be considered attractive by Generation Z?”. The extensive literature review on employer attractiveness and the relevant generations, especially Generation Z, builds the foundation for the empirical research: qualitative interviews with business students of Generation Z in their final semester. This provides an in-depth insight on their current requirements and perspectives of attractive employers and therefore serves as a basis for the recommendations for companies. The findings revealed that a positive working climate, workplace proximity, above-average remuneration and transparent communication are essential requirements to be fulfilled. Above all, however, employers should focus on supporting the reconciliation of work and private life through offering working from home and flexible working hours.
Artificial intelligence is a disruptive technology, offering increasingly more opportunities to companies. However, the low digital maturity of the private banking sector, makes it hard for private banks to take advantage of this opportunity. Simultaneously, customers are expecting more digital solutions, forcing companies to adapt their services.
The aim of this paper is to provide an overview, drawing conclusions about whether the implementation of AI technologies is profitable in the private banking sector.
This thesis is based on recent research about current possible applications and the respective benefits, risks and costs. Two use cases will be thoroughly analysed: the application of automated credit risk management systems and AI powered indexes. In the first case, the software NOLA 2.0 will be evaluated and used as a benchmark to highlight the positive and negative aspects deriving from AI credit risk management software. In the second case, the AI powered index AiPEXAR will be presented and compared to the most common ETF S&P 500, analysing the differences in their computation and their performance over time.
The analysis concluded that, even though the benefits substantially depend on the individual company, AI chatbots, customers' engagement, credit risk management software and banking apps are advantageous for private banks. Yet, the implementation of AI powered indexes may be precocious and therefore not yet profitable. It can also be concluded that for private banks, whose core competitive advantage lies in the expertise of the relationship managers, the digitalization of advisory may lead to unsatisfied customers.
Sustainable sourcing strategies to prevent environmental and human rights risks
along the supply chain have become increasingly relevant for global operating
companies. The aim of this thesis is to provide the theoretical framework and
practical implementation of a sustainable sourcing risk management system
anchored in the German supply chain law and based on defined criteria. These
criteria include requirements in the area of Natural Capital and Materials that are important for the company Kendrion N.V. In total, three research questions have been defined: What are the required criteria of Natural Capital and Materials the suppliers should comply with? How should these be implemented for Kendrion and its supply chain? And what are the remaining challenges?
In detail, the requirement criteria contain the topics of renewable energy, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, reuse and recycling, as well as current regulations of the European Union.
The practical implementation demonstrates the implementation at Kendrion N.V. To assess risks along the supply chain, a questionnaire is developed that serves as a basis for the evaluation process. In addition, this thesis includes the concept creation of a Power BI report that can be used as a methodology for the risk management analysis. The Power BI system presented at the end of this thesis will be used as a template for Kendrion to evaluate the results of the supplier questionnaire as part of the risk management system. However, some challenges need to be addressed: The proportion of suppliers who have signed the Code of Conduct, the reliability of the supplier data provided, and the verification of supplier contacts.
Influencer marketing has become one of the most popular marketing strategies in today’s ever changing digital scene. Despite being a popular technique of engaging customers, influencer marketing is still difficult for marketers and brands to understand the meaning behind of it and how to take advantage of influencer marketing. The research delves into the multifaceted landscape of influencer marketing. The research questions revolved around three key aspects of influencer marketing. Firstly, a profound exploration of influencer marketing was undertaken, delving into its evolution, benefits and underlying principles of influencer marketing was important to fully understand its dynamic role in modern marketing. Beyond this, an in-depth analysis scrutinized the impact of influencer marketing on consumer purchase behavior, peeling back layers to reveal the nuanced interplay of trust, and authenticity. To answer these questions a thorough analysis of influencer content and consumer interactions was done. To extract meaningful insights, to provide a holistic understanding of the symbiotic relationship between influencers and consumers. Trust emerged as a linchpin in the effectiveness of influencer marketing, profoundly influencing consumer perceptions and behaviors. Conclusively, the study highlights the indispensability of trust and authenticity in influencer marketing. Brands seeking success in influencer-driven consumer engagement must prioritize and harness these factors to navigate the complexities of contemporary marketing landscapes successfully.
BUSINESS PROCESS AUTOMATION: ENHANCING EFFICIENCY AND COMPETITIVENESS IN MODERN ORGANIZATIONS
(2024)
The first section of the thesis provides a historical overview of automation, spanning from the first industrial revolution to the current era of highly advanced AI-driven technologies. It emphasizes how important Business Process Automation (BPA) is in today's hectic corporate climate when productivity and competitiveness are key factors. The main focus is on Robotic Process Automation (RPA), which is especially useful in situations with legacy systems since it effectively automates repetitive processes. This study explores the differences between terms and concepts related to automation, including business process automation (BPA), robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and business process management (BPM). Companies looking to optimize their processes face a changing landscape due to the involvement of various technologies. Using real-world case studies and industry best practices, the thesis provides a thorough examination of the effects of BPA, emphasizing the primary drivers, challenges, and benefits of BPA adoption. A mixed-methods approach integrating quantitative and qualitative research was used as the methodology. Surveys, case studies, and documentation from different organizations are included in the study, based on those who have implemented RPA at their work. This method enables a thorough analysis of BPA's effects on efficacy, productivity, and affordability. Case studies from prominent firms like Capgemini Consulting, PwC, and Deloitte are reviewed to gain insights regarding their BPA journey. Significant gains in customer satisfaction, cost savings, error avoidance, and operational efficiency are shown by this research. They also draw attention to difficulties like opposition from employees, problems with integration, and the requirement for upskilling. The thesis indicates that although big firms have similar motives for adopting BPA, the process of adopting BPA varies depending on the specific circumstances of each firm. Stakeholder engagement and change management are critical components of successful BPA programs, according to key results. The study highlights a balanced, strategic, and context-sensitive approach, offering a useful insight for companies in establishing their BPA strategy. It provides a comprehensive examination of the role that business process automation plays in modern companies, highlighting the ways in which it can radically alter corporate strategy and operations in the digital age. It gives a thorough examination of the challenges involved in putting BPA into practice and offers tactical advice to businesses hoping to use these tools to boost productivity and competitiveness.
Total Hip Arthroplasty is a highly effective procedure. Precise preoperative planning is crucial for a positive patient outcome. One approach to improve patient outcomes is preoperative planning of hip implants, which could replace the currently dominant 2D planning and improve processes in dealer markets by enabling more efficient delivery. The objective of this study is to survey and measure dealers’ acceptance of a patient-specific delivery and operating room setting. The evaluation is based on the Technology Acceptance Model. A recommendation for action will be derived from the evaluation.
This study examines the acceptance of new technologies through a systematic literature review utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model. Additionally, it presents the current state of 2D and 3D planning for hip implants and analyzes the Italian and Brazilian dealer markets. The target group was surveyed quantitatively, and their acceptance was analyzed and interpreted using descriptive statistical evaluation.
The two markets share similarities in their current requirements and conditions. In Italy and Brazil, planning is done intraoperatively by surgeons, which has been identified as an obstacle on several occasions. Acceptance of the new process is therefore mixed and requires supportive measures.
The similarities between the two markets allow for uniform comparability and interpretation. However, the acceptance can be traced back to the lack of preoperative planning among surgeons. It is clear that both markets are rather critical of a switch to preoperative planning, especially 3D planning. Therefore, some measures and further research on surgeons must first be taken before a successful implementation is possible.
Even though the idea of nearshoring is not new, it has attracted a lot of attention lately. This strategy entails moving corporate activities, such as IT services or manufacturing, to nearby countries in order to take advantage of a variety of competitive benefits. Nearshoring is a phenomenon that is intimately related to trade wars, regional trade agreements, and changing global economic dynamics. The objective of this research is to investigate the development of nearshoring, the forces that drive it, and the effects it has on various industries, economies, and geopolitical ties. The study is specifically focused on the automotive and semiconductor sectors. The study takes a broad approach, including case studies, economic strategies, and historical patterns. It examines the growth of nearshoring in different areas, such as the USA and Europe, and analyses its effects on global trade and economic stability. In accordance to the study, nearshoring has a number of advantages, including lower costs, less risk, and easier access to trained labour. But it also brings with it difficulties like disparities in culture and regulations as well as worries about data security. Nearshoring trends have had a substantial impact on the automotive and semiconductor sectors, leading to notable changes in supply chain strategy and production processes. In response to the requirement for operational flexibility and the pressures in the global economy, nearshoring has become a popular option for these two industries. The approach emphasizes the necessity for flexible and resilient company strategies in a constantly shifting economic environment and helps to reshape the dynamics of global commerce.
This master thesis explores the divergent consumer preferences within e-commerce sales funnels in China and Germany, two of the world's leading e-commerce markets. This comparative study explores the complexities of website design preferences, the influence of cultural elements on consumer decision-making, and the drivers of consumer loyalty and repeat purchases, with China's rapid adoption of digital technology and innovative marketing strategies set against Germany's mature market and consumer trust.
A mixed-methods approach is used in the research, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis. Insights into consumer behaviors and preferences influenced by cultural, economic, and technical aspects are provided by a thorough analysis of scholarly literature, case studies, and consumer surveys from both nations. The report highlights the distinctive features of each market by examining important elements such as digital innovation, sustainability, social integration, data protection, and mobile commerce in e-commerce practices.
Remarkably, the thesis seeks to provide practical insights to German e-commerce practitioners. German businesses can learn more about properly aligning their marketing and operational goals with consumer expectations by studying the successful techniques employed in China. This research contributes to academic understanding while also having implications for marketers and e-commerce platforms looking to improve user engagement, conversion rates, and the overall online shopping experience in the dynamic global e-commerce world.
This thesis investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the recruitment processes of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of such technologies. It examines the potential benefits of AI in recruitment, including increased efficiency and unbiased decision-making, as well as challenges such as data privacy concerns. Through qualitative research and interviews with HR professionals, the study not only explores the current landscape of AI in recruitment but also proposes a comprehensive implementation plan for SMEs. This plan is designed to help SMEs navigate the complexities of adopting AI technologies, ensuring they can effectively leverage AI tools to enhance their recruitment outcomes and overcome the barriers to implementation.
Steuerliche Gestaltungsmöglichkeiten von privaten Vermögensgegenständen über einen Familienpool
(2024)
The following paper deals with the topic of which tax structuring options are possible for the transfer of private assets via a family pool under German tax law. The research question examined here is whether it is worthwhile from a tax perspective to transfer private assets to a family pool and which legal form is most suitable for this. In particular, the difference in terms of inheritance tax between a transfer through a family pool and an inheritance upon the death of the testator is examined. In order to answer the research question, a detailed literature review was first carried out on the special tax circumstances of the legal forms suitable for a family pool. Subsequently, the topics brought to light by the research were introduced into three case studies for better comprehensibility in order to demonstrate the tax advantages of a family pool.The tax burden calculations show that a family pool can be worthwhile for tax and administrative reasons if set up early on
Employee engagement is crucial for companies because of its positive influence on performance, retention, and profitability. However, the rising appearance of hybrid workplaces and generational changes have presented challenges in maintaining employee engagement. Leadership has been shown to play an important role in developing engaged employees. This paper examines the relationship between transformational leadership and employee engagement and whether gender, presented as male, diverse and female, impacts this relationship.
A sample of 118 respondents, that have worked for over one year under a leader, has been analyzed through simple and multiple regressions. The relationship between transformational leadership and employee engagement proved significantly positive, highlighting the key role leadership plays when fostering engaged employees. However, the moderating relationship of all three genders was not significant. These results suggest that companies should focus on training transformational leaders and engaging employees regardless of the employee's gender.
Industry 5.0 is a new age of production that combines human-machine cooperation with cutting-edge technologies. Despite all of Industry 5.0's advantages, there are new cybersecurity threats that need to be considered in order to maintain the stability and security of networked systems. In the first section of the thesis, Industry 5.0 is introduced, along with its benefits and features. Cyber threats posed by automation, robotics, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and networked systems are also noted.
The thesis delves deeply into the vulnerabilities and possible attack paths that hackers can use in Industry 5.0 settings. It looks at vulnerabilities in IoT devices, human mistakes, unprotected communication protocols, and supply chain vulnerabilities, giving a thorough grasp of the hazards involved. Case examples from the real world illustrate how cyberattacks affect Industry 5.0 systems, highlighting the necessity of strong defenses.
In order to develop recommendations for Industry 5.0 security, the thesis examines a number of cybersecurity best practices and standards, including the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001. It highlights how crucial it is to carry out thorough risk assessments and apply efficient risk management strategies in Industry 5.0 settings. The thesis recommends staff awareness and training, incident response strategies, and technology controls as ways to lessen cyber dangers.
The thesis also looks at innovative ways to improve Industry 5.0 cybersecurity, including secure communication protocols, blockchain for supply chain security, artificial intelligence (AI) for attack detection and response, and safe IoT device design. It also takes into account the legal and regulatory sides of cybersecurity, evaluating how well they work to handle privacy and ethical issues as well as lessen cyber threats.
To improve Industry 5.0 cybersecurity, the thesis also looks at cutting-edge technologies including blockchain for supply chain security, AI for threat detection and response, secure communication protocols, and safe IoT device design. It evaluates the efficacy of legal and regulatory measures in mitigating cyber dangers and resolving privacy and ethical issues while taking cybersecurity into account.
The thesis highlights the need of industry cooperation and information exchange in addressing Industry 5.0 cyber threats. It assesses initiatives, partnerships, and networks that support the sharing of best practices, information, and threat intelligence. In the conclusion, the thesis explores Industry 5.0's future orientations and offers academics, policymakers, and business experts’ advice on how to proactively mitigate new risks and guarantee the security of Industry 5.0 ecosystems.
Overall, the thesis contributes to a better knowledge of Industry 5.0 cyber dangers and provides practical solutions through the use of multidisciplinary research, real-world case studies, and examples. Its purpose is to encourage the secure and successful use of Industry 5.0 technology.
This thesis begins a theoretical investigation into leadership and organizational power by briefly examining the relevant academic literature. It then examines Robert House’s Path-Goal Theory, Bertram French, and John Raven’s Bases of Power frameworks. This study investigates the correlation between directive, supportive, participative, and achievement-oriented leadership behaviors and reward, coercive, legitimate, expert, and referent power within organizational set-tings by combining theoretical knowledge with empirical data gathered through questionnaires conducted with leaders and employees in the hotel sector. It also investigates how they impact the achievement of hotel goals.
Contributing to existing knowledge on leadership and power dynamics in the hotel industry, this research rigorously analyzes the compatibility and effectiveness of leadership behaviors with various power sources. The empirical backbone of this study comprises questionnaires conduct-ed across sixteen Southeast Asian hotels, yielding insights grounded in real-world organization-al settings. Based on 167 responses, this comprehensive investigation offers valuable implica-tions for practitioners and scholars, elucidating the intricate relationship between leadership be-havior and power sources. It underscores the strategic importance of aligning behavior with power sources to enhance leadership effectiveness and foster organizational success.
The Bachelor Thesis examines the effects of the integration of environmental, social and governmental (ESG) criteria in equity funds on performance compared to conventional equity funds. For this purpose, a quantitative analysis is carried out which includes a detailed examination of 769 equity funds. The equity funds are divided into two different groups - ESG equity funds and conventional equity funds - and are analyzed for various financial ratios. The goal of the study is to illustrate the financial performance differences between ESG-focused equity funds and conventional equity funds and thus provide a scientific contribution to the academic debate on sustainable investments. Initially, the thesis delves into the central concepts of ESG, the historical development of investment funds, theoretical frameworks, and existing studies. The following analysis provides an insight into the relationship between ESG criteria and the performance of equity funds. It not only draws on two different ESG rating systems, but also provides a geographical breakdown. Although the work as a whole helps to develop a deeper understanding of sustainable investment and highlights potential implications for investors and the financial sector, the results of the analysis show that more research is needed in this area.
The financial markets are currently facing uncertain circumstances, which is increasing their tail risk. A recent study was conducted to measure the tail connectedness between North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. The study looked at 18 stock market indices using a neural network quantile regression approach from January 4, 2012, to May 5, 2022. The study found that the North American, European, and Latin American stock markets had the highest exposure to tail risk, while Asia and Oceania showed no significant risk compared to the rest of the world indices and were independent. The study also identified the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic as intense events that yielded high tail risk. The Systematic Fragility Index ranked the pre-COVID period stock market and the Nasdaq during the COVID sample as the most susceptible markets. On the other hand, the Systematic Hazard Index identified the S&P as the chief risk contributor in the system.
The following thesis analyzes what a new sustainable pension reform for Germany could look like and which aspects can be adopted from other countries. It is shown that the German pension system needs a reform because it lacks sustainability due to the demographic change taking place and the associated poverty in old age. Another factor is the lack of state subsidies. To this
end, five different countries were analyzed, a survey and a utility analysis were conducted in order to compare the countries according to certain criteria and to draw conclusions as to which pension system or which aspects could be copied and implemented in Germany. The results show that Sweden and Norway have a sophisticated pension system with many aspects that could be adopted. Austria also provides some good ideas. The existing plans of the German government and other experts show that Germany is on the right track, but needs to be reformed
as soon as possible in order to achieve a positive result immediately.
The primary purpose of this thesis is to examine if the implementation of process mining significantly impacts a company’s competitive advantage, what challenges organizations face during that process and while using the tool as well as to identify drivers for business value generation and for which purposes and in which areas process mining is applied along the value chain. Therefore, an exploratory case study was conducted based on ten in-depth expert interviews containing representatives of various industries.
Today’s business environment of uncertainty and increasing volatility demands for organizational resilience and adaptability. Businesses recognize the importance of effective process execution and management based on the necessity of process optimization in order to sustain competitive. Due to its universality of application and its ability to deliver ubiquitous value in ways that never have been possible before, process mining is gaining vast popularity across various domains.
Findings appear to show that process mining is seen as modern, innovative, and supportive means to gain transparency over processes’ complexity by facilitating the ease of identifying improvement areas on a holistic end-to-end perspective of a company’s value chain.
Thus, businesses use process mining to yield the creation of monetary and non-monetary values by deploying an iterative cycle of continuous improvement. Hence, value potentials are realized by transforming actionable insights obtained into suitable actions serving as enablement for value capture. Despite that, process mining impacts organizations on different levels, whereas such impacts potentially affect a company’s competitive advantage through several paths. The study further explores a variety of success factors consisting of antecedents for effective usage and drivers for consistent value creation of process mining. The analysis depicts moderating effects of success factors on several challenges, whereas organizational challenges clearly overweight technical’s. Ultimately, implications for further research and managerial actions are presented focusing on the organizational perspective of process mining.
Pulmonary response prediction through personalized basis functions in a virtual patient model
(2024)
Hybrid work is an increasingly common model of work applied around the globe and is expected to be continuously gaining importance. This thesis is aimed at identifying what impacts hybrid work has on international companies. A literature review was conducted to provide findings of recent research to identify possible positive as well as negative impacts. Furthermore, a survey was distributed to 150 employees with leading positions in international companies, resulting in 16 responses, which were analysed using metrics of multiple regression. The qualitative part of the survey was assessed as well. The small sample size only allows for an indication that hybrid work might impact sick days of the workforce in a negative way and that less business trips are taken due to hybrid work. The other impacts that were identified through the survey suggest impacts on a larger scale than simply human resources, indicating that hybrid work can impact the entire profitability of a company and should therefore be properly assessed and managed with a broad view on all possible impacts on different levels in mind.
When discussing the current textile and apparel industries’ status quo, at some point attention will most likely shift towards the challenges fast fashion companies have to encounter due to the increased interest in sustainability practices. This bachelor dissertation examines the sustainability reports of three major fashion brands – Adidas, H&M, and Inditex, with the aim to gain insights of the current situation of non-financial reporting.
The study examines how companies address various aspects of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors within their sustainability reports. It also investigates whether these companies prioritize different topics in their practices. Furthermore, the research evaluates how extensively fashion companies incorporate industry-standard KPIs to measure and compare their
sustainability performances.
The results show that the three companies focus on ESG factors differently, with environmental issues being consistently addressed, although the degrees of emphasis vary. Inditex emerges as a leader in fulfilling ESG criteria, with Adidas and H&M closely behind. Analyzing a company’s KPIs reveals a range of diverse approaches, complicating comparisons with competitors. However, following set standards such as the GRI Standards enhances credibility, even though transparency improvements are possible. With the EU’s CSRD regulation on the horizon, companies are encouraged to improve data accuracy and transparency, which may lead to changes in strategic directions.
This study emphasizes the importance of fair reporting, clear communication, and standardized frameworks to promote sustainability. With the insights provided by the research, this work is aimed at researchers, shareholders, and stakeholders interested in understanding, or implementing sustainability practices within the fashion industry.
The objective of this work is to determine which strategic management model is the most suitable for developing a strategy framework for an international, decentralised organisation to ensure sustainable e-business growth. To achieve this, primary and secondary data are analysed, using a combination of comparative and qualitative approaches. Three strategic management models are presented. The Balanced Scorecard and the Objectives and Key Results are selected for a deeper literature review to assess their applicability according to criteria considered critical in a decentralised e-business context. Based on the literature, a hypothesis is formulated suggesting that Objectives and Key Results is the most suitable model for this purpose. Using a concrete case study, -the e-business project Vision 30 of the Würth Group-, both models are developed. The results and development processes are compared and evaluated, showing that although the Objectives and Key Results has significant advantages, it cannot serve as a universally applicable framework. The Balanced Scorecard‘s strategy map uses predefined perspectives, allowing for customisation and individual adaptations for companies. Therefore, the hypothesis was rejected. This demonstrates that the strategy map provides the necessary flexibility while maintaining alignment, which is crucial for success in today’s decentralised business landscape. Further research in the field of strategic management models could investigate the effectiveness of combining both models.
The covid-19 pandemic has significantly impacted economies all over the world, posing as a difficulty for companies all across the globe. The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India were one of the most affected. These Enterprises make a substantial contribution to India's economic output.
Despite their significance, these enterprises had faced immense challenges during the pandemic, such as disrupted supply chains, financial needs, loss of customer interest, and administrative problems as well.
This paper, has the intention of studying the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic on the MSMEs of India and is focusing on the Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexities, and Ambiguity (VUCA) challenged encountered by them, the strategies that these businesses put into place to keep the organizations afloat, is also studied.
This paper includes a study spanning various fields, exploring the adaptive mechanisms, and strategies incorporated by MSMEs to manage and navigate through the turbulent business environment, sustaining operations and managing risks.
Furthermore, the thesis throws some light on the role of digital transformation in MSME resilience during the crisis, noting its effectiveness and potential barriers. The study aims to give insights and suggestions to better prepare MSMEs versatility against future disruptions, while also looking at government aid or help during the pandemic.
At last, this thesis adds to the understanding of challenges faced by MSMEs during the Covid-19 pandemic, while trying to offer valuable insights for the future.
Sustainability is a megatrend and has been a topic of great interest for decades. Even though, industrialization came forth with genius and profitable businesses it almost never took into consideration the value of natural capital and sustainability. According to a 2017 report by the UN, there are more than 51 trillion microplastic particles in the sea, more than 500 times the number of stars in the Milky Way. With the depletion of natural resources, increasing consumer education and the need for a better future the world has been prompted to take solid steps to control the menace that could be climate change and unsustainability. This paper makes an effort to understand the effect that sustainable marketing practices have on the profitability of an organization. The case studies of the three famous athleisure brands provides an insight into how sustainability can help companies drive towards a profitable and a circular future.
The dynamic and constantly changing global competitive environment requires the development of advanced technologies and new operating procedures for a company´s internal processes. Human Resource Management bears the responsibility of assisting the organization in overcoming these challenges and effectively reshaping its procedures. This bachelor's thesis investigates the detailed process of implementing a Global Job Catalogue (GJC) at a company. The purpose and goal of this study is to evaluate whether the implementation of a GJC offers advantages, using an automotive company as an example. It analyses the practical application of a GJC and its integration into the Human Resources Department. Furthermore, a focus on the challenges and benefits of the implementation and integration process will be provided, including the use of innovative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Skills Management. To achieve the stated goal, semi-structured interviews with HR personnel from the automotive company have been carried out. The results of the study identify the benefits of a comprehensive GJC for each stakeholder, such as increased transparency, efficiency, and consistency across the organization. However, it also highlights the challenges associated with the implementation process, including the strict timeframe and the simultaneous pursuance of multiple relevant project components. Based on these findings, recommendations for the use case are derived, and a thorough conclusion is provided.
This thesis embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the Bosch Car Service (BCS) and Bosch Automotive Workshop Services (BAWS) concepts within the global automotive service industry, underpinned by the esteemed Bosch brand. Through a meticulous comparative analysis, enriched by insights from expert interviews, this study unveils the operational frameworks, strategic orientations, and value propositions that distinguish BCS and BAWS, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities each model presents. The research identifies key market segments addressed by BCS and BAWS, emphasizing BCS's focus on connectivity and efficiency versus BAWS's standardized franchise operations. It further delves into the complexities of managing a centralized system like BAWS, the challenge of leveraging Bosch's extensive portfolio, and the role of digital tools in enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement. This thesis proposes a strategic blueprint for innovation, brand management, and customer-centric services, aiming to guide BCS and BAWS towards sustained growth and competitiveness in the evolving automotive service sector. Through integrating theoretical analysis with practical insights, the study makes a significant contribution to the academic and practical understanding of automotive service franchise models, shaping future strategies for Bosch's continued success and leadership in the industry.
The aim of this study is to investigate how cultural diversity is implemented and promoted in German startups and what best practices can be derived from these insights. The research question is: How is cultural diversity being implemented and promoted in German startups? Challenges and best practices.
As an empirical method to address the research question, expert interviews were conducted to gain precise insight into the strategies and initiatives of startups related to cultural diversity.
The results of the research have shown that cultural diversity has a significant impact on fostering innovation and creativity in startups. It also became clear that leadership within the company plays a crucial role in implementing cultural diversity and creating an inclusive environment. Research also showed that the implementation of formal initiatives in startups is limited due to company size and resource constraints.
Overall, the study has demonstrated that cultural diversity plays an important role in startups that should not be overlooked. Based on theoretical insights as well as findings from the study, best practices have been derived to serve as guidelines for startups aiming to efficiently and resourcefully implement cultural diversity.
Introduction: The present study investigated the role of training intensity in the dose–response relationship between endurance training and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). The hypothesis was that beginners would benefit from an increase in training intensity after an initial training phase, even if the energy expenditure was not altered. For this purpose, 26 weeks of continuous moderate training (control group, CON) was compared to training with gradually increasing intensity (intervention group, INC) but constant energy expenditure.
Methods: Thirty-one healthy, untrained subjects (13 men, 18 women; 46±8 years; body mass index 25.4 ± 3.3 kg m−2; maximum oxygen uptake, VO2max −1 −1 34 ± 4 ml min kg ) trained for 10 weeks with moderate intensity [3 days/week for 50 min/session at 55% heart rate reserve (HRreserve)] before allocation to one of two groups. A minimization technique was used to ensure homogeneous groups. While group CON continued with moderate intensity for 16 weeks, the INC group trained at 70% HRreserve for 8weeks and thereafter participated in a 4 × 4 training program (high-intensity interval training, HIIT) for 8 weeks. Constant energy expenditure was ensured by indirect calorimetry and corresponding adjustment of the training volume. Treadmill tests were performed at baseline and after 10, 18, and 26 weeks.
Results: The INC group showed improved VO2max (3.4 ± 2.7 ml kg−1 min−1) to a significantly greater degree than the CON group (0.4 ± 2.9 ml kg−1 min−1) (P = 0.020). In addition, the INC group exhibited improved Vmax (1.7 ± 0.7 km h−1) to a significantly greater degree than the CON group (1.0 ± 0.5 km h−1) (P = 0.001). The reduction of resting HR was significantly larger in the INC group (7±4bpm) than in the CON group (2±6bpm) (P=0.001). The mean heart rate in the submaximal exercise test was reduced significantly in the CON group (5±6bpm; P=0.007) and in the INC group (8±7bpm; P=0.001), without a significant interaction between group and time point.
This thesis investigates the persuasiveness of triathlon celebrities on consumer purchase intention, employing a quantitative research methodology grounded in the Source Credibility Model and the Match-up hypothesis. Through a survey-based approach, data was collected to analyse how consumers perceive characteristics of triathlon sports celebrities and how the match-up between triathlon celebrities and product types as well as the perceived characteristics affect consumer purchase intention. Running shoes and winter boots were selected as the two product types.
The study population consisted of a total sample size of 204 respondents. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to explore the relationships between triathlon sports celebrities' attributes, product-endorser matchup, and consumer purchase intention. Findings revealed significant positive relationships between perceived expertise and purchase intention for both running shoes and winter boots. Moreover, a positive relationship was observed between perceived physical attractiveness of triathlon celebrities and purchase intention for both products. While perceived trustworthiness did not significantly impact purchase intention, the study demonstrated a positive relationship between perceived product-endorser match-up and purchase intention for both products. Practical implications stemming from these findings emphasize the importance of strategic sport celebrity selection and product-endorser fit in endorsement campaigns. This research contributes to the academic field by focusing specifically on triathlon celebrities’ and their persuasive impact towards consumers.
This thesis examines Life Cycle Costing through a literature review and a fictional case study. It explores key challenges faced in implementing and utilizing Life Cycle Costing, proposes strategies for overcoming these challenges, and evaluates the potential impact of early integration of this technique on decision-making processes. Additionally, by use of the case study, the thesis exemplifies how Life Cycle Costing identifies trade-offs that would otherwise have remained unnoticed. The case study highlights how the implementation of the technique unveils that the option initially expected to be more costly turns out to be more economical. The findings underscore the superiority of the Life Cycle Costing methodology, questioning the narrow focus on immediate costs in traditional cost accounting, opening the door to a business model where long-term cost savings are recognized and valued.
The goal of this study is to answer if the corona pandemic changed the risk aversiveness and risk tolerance of young German adults and how it changed their decisions when investing in shares, by using the behavioral finance approach.
To answer this question, a literature recherche and a quantitative study were done. The quantitative study consists of a questionnaire, which was answered by 216 German adults with ages ranging from 18 to 35.
This research examines the impact of social media on consumer behavior, focusing on how consumer behavior and habits change after the use of social media by German and Chinese young consumers. A comparison of the differences between the two groups is also conducted. The study was conducted based on theoretical background and terminology, followed by six hypotheses. Then this research determined the scope, target population, and sample size before using focus groups and online questionnaires as survey methods. While analyzing the questionnaire data, the research tested the hypotheses and demonstrated the effects between the variables. The results indicated partial agreement with existing studies. Browsing time positively correlates with the purchase journey. The duration of online discounts negatively correlates with transaction speed. Young consumers' demand increases with the amount of time they spend browsing product advertisements. However, some findings ran counter to previous investigations. The impact of SMM on young consumers has no adverse effect on the time spent browsing products. Moreover, only in some cases, young consumers' purchase intentions are positively correlated with demand.
Keywords: Young consumers, Social media marketing, Consumer behavior, Purchase journey, Purchase intention, Online time-limited discounts, Demand
The aim of this research is to investigate the unique factors that affect the
adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices in Greek
companies, with a specific focus on how they align with the overall business
strategy and performance. To achieve this objective, a "bottom-up" approach
is utilized, which involves conducting case studies to assess the status of
GSCM implementation in Greece. Additionally, the research seeks to identify
the key barriers that must be overcome for successful integration of GSCM in
Greek businesses.
A primary purpose of the study is to advance the field of Green Supply Chain
Management (GSCM) research by providing new and valuable insights on
the implementation of GSCM in a context that has received relatively minor
or even no attention in previous studies. The findings of this study have
practical implications for businesses operating in Greece and beyond, as
they offer recommendations, solutions and strategies for companies seeking
to implement GSCM practices. Eventually, this research aims to contribute to
the overall development and understanding of GSCM, as well as to promote
sustainable business practices in the region.
Keywords: Green supply chain management, Greece, business strategy,
implementation, barriers, case studies, bottom-up approach
With the increasing popularity of the home office model and the limited exploration of associated stressors necessitate a comprehensive investigation of potential drawbacks. This thesis embarks on an investigation of how the home office paradigm can be leveraged to alleviate distress, nurture mental well-being. Specifically, it delves into an analysis of five prominent stressors inherent in the home office context, identifying effective strategies for mitigating each one adeptly. The data and research in this thesis are drawn from existing literature on the work concept. The findings underscore the substantial influence of these stressors on employees’ mental health and productivity. However, specific measures to mitigate these challenges are identified and thoroughly expounded upon. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing the home office environment and promoting the holistic well-being of employees.
Greenwashing in the clothing industry and its impact on the corporate image of consumers in Germany
(2023)
With issues like climate change and the pollution of our planet, more and more clothing companies are following the trend of a sustainable marketing strategy. Greenwashing is often associated with that, as not all companies are honest about their statements. This study examines how greenwashing by a company in the clothing industry impacts the corporate image of 18 to 30-year-old adults in Germany. Studies regarding sustainability, consumer behaviour towards sustainable products, the behaviour in case of greenwashing incidents, and the identification of greenwashing are investigated. For the analysis, online survey data of 244 Hochschule Furtwangen University study participants are examined. The descriptive study provides information about the behaviour of consumers regarding sustainable clothing and their behaviour when it comes to greenwashing. It was found that consumers tend not to consider sustainability when buying clothes. Very few inform themselves about sustainability, and sustainable labels do not seem to influence their shopping decisions. The image of the consumer about the company involved in greenwashing appears to deteriorate. In addition, the willingness to keep buying from the company seems to be stopped or reduced for the majority. A weak positive correlation was found between consumer behaviour concerning the topics of sustainability and greenwashing. It can be summarised that the dishonest behaviour of clothing companies can harm their consumers' corporate image and brand loyalty.
In today's fast-paced business environment, customers expect more than just high-quality products or services. They also demand excellent customer support that is both efficient and personalized. With the growth of businesses and the increasing complexity of products and services, providing efficient customer support has become a critical component of any successful business strategy to fulfill customers and user’s expectations. The present study investigates the need for a technical support helpdesk solution within the business unit Industrial Hydraulics of Bosch Rexroth, a global leader in drive and control technology. The primary objective of this thesis is to assess the current state of the support processes, identify areas of weakness, and leverage these insights to optimize and enhance them. The focus will be on finding a way to enhance transparency of customer data.
Based on the theory to process optimization, a current state analysis was conducted, and expert interviews were carried out to identify weaknesses and potential solutions for improving customer support. The research question "How can the Industrial Hydraulics Services of Bosch Rexroth deliver more effective and efficient customer support?" is addressed through the findings that a central platform is necessary to handle customer inquiries more efficiently, given the diverse communication channels and varying modes of operation within the business unit. The use of the existing SAP CRM ticketing system Robin is suggested as an efficient solution path, which should be optimized for future use based on the identified optimization approaches. The results underscore the importance of a unified approach to working, which is vital for the success of the business unit, resulting in increased efficiency, quality, collaboration, scalability, and customer orientation.
This thesis examines causes and effects of El Salvador’s transition to official dollarization conducted in 2001. The document analyzes preliminary and final impacts in the real, financial, fiscal, and external sectors of the country, and it also provides an economic and social perspective on how these effects have caused little effect on Salvadoran society. Several authors remark official dollarization might have positive effects on countries with macroeconomic disorders such as high inflation rates and drastic exchange rate variations. After more than 20 years of adoption of the U.S. dollar, official dollarization does not appear to have affected positively life of Salvadoran citizens but rather has prevented governments from using monetary policy to apply irresponsible economic policies and has also helped to prevent high inflation rates. To take advantage of the benefits official dollarization can offer, it is highly recommendable for El Salvador to implement transformative social and economic investments and policies that boost human development and economic competitiveness.
In the contemporary business landscape characterized by global economic uncertainty and rapid technological advancements, companies face increasing complexity in meeting their innovation targets. To address this challenge, established firms are engaging in collaborative partnerships with external entities, particularly startups, to leverage their knowledge and capabilities to gain a competitive advantage. Despite the growing popularity of corporate-startup collaboration (CSC), there remains a noticeable gap in the literature regarding the analysis of the dynamics and key success factors that are relevant to enhancing the collaborative process between these asymmetric entities. This study aims to fill this research space by investigating the dynamics, motives, objectives, and challenges of CSC, with a specific focus on identifying the success factors crucial for achieving favorable outcomes. Drawing upon insights from eight expert managers using a mixed-method approach, the study highlights the significance of addressing internal barriers and prioritizing key success factors to ensure successful outcomes in CSC. The research methodology involves a literature review, a pre-stage questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews to gather comprehensive data. The researchers have synthesized the findings to enhance an existing Co-Canvas model in a way that it is specifically tailored for CSC, thereby offering managers a practical framework to effectively navigate the complexities of CSC. The findings of this research hold implications for scholars, corporate leaders, and entrepreneurs, enabling them to evaluate past collaboration initiatives, identify potential sources of errors, and devise strategies to enhance their collaboration performance. By shedding light on the dynamics and success factors of CSC, this study contributes to the existing body of knowledge and offers valuable insights for strategically enhancing collaboration performance. However, the study refrains from making broad generalizations of the model due to the small sample size of experts.
Defining tasks and activities for academic nursing in community and long-term care arrangements
(2023)
This thesis examines the potential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the German apparel industry to enhance circular capabilities. Given the urgency of environmental issues in garment production, the thesis delves into the broader context of the textile and apparel industry, circularity principles, circular product design, as well as business and regulatory framework conditions. However, this transformation necessitates substantial innovation, which can be challenging, especially for SMEs facing resource constraints. A utility analysis-based tool to support SMEs' circularity journeys is introduced, by systematically evaluating textile fibers. This approach assists SMEs in optimizing material choices and complying with sustainability standards and reporting. To demonstrate its effectiveness, the tool is applied for HAKRO GmbH, a SME in the German apparel industry. The assessment results indicate prioritization of specific fiber choices, emphasize knowledge gaps, and spotlight opportunities for innovation and circularity. The tool's systematic approach enables SMEs like HAKRO GmbH to strategically select material options, streamline innovation efforts, and align with CE principles. Ultimately, this research contributes to advancing CE transitions within the apparel industry by offering insights into enhancing circular capabilities for SMEs and facilitating informed decision-making through a utility analysis-based approach.
This Bachelor's thesis explores the impact of the EU Taxonomy on the Automobile in- dustry, focusing on, Mercedes Benz Group AG, BMW Group AG, Volkswagen AG, Por- sche AG, and Audi AG.
In the first part, relevant theoretical background information will be given to get an un- derstanding of the EU Taxonomy framework. It will explain the purpose of the EU Tax- onomy, relevant keywords, and the reporting obligations of companies including an ex- planation of the role of IFRS.
The second part will analyze the annual reports to evaluate the feasibility of the imple- mentation of the EU Taxonomy framework. This includes the analysis of the companies reporting as well as the comparison of the economic activities of the companies. There were discrepancies observed among the reporting practices of Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi. It has been determined, that all car manufacturers listed a varying number of economic activities that contributed to their eligible and aligned KPIs. The disclosure of the key performance indicators turnover, capital expenditure, and operational expenditure of the five companies was examined. All manufacturers classi- fied their entire vehicle portfolios, regardless of emission output, as eligible under the EU Taxonomy, leading to challenges in accurately assessing their environmental impact. Lastly, to determine the greenest company of the five car manufacturers the Taxonomy- aligned key performance indicators within the automobile industry were analyzed. How- ever, the determination of the greenest company proved inconclusive due to conflicting results from the analyzed KPIs.
In conclusion, the implementation of the EU Taxonomy in the automobile industry is found to be partially feasible, primarily due to inconsistencies in its application among the manufacturers.
After-sales services play a crucial role in companies’ profit. Their importance is expected to increase given the intensifying leveling of product competition and a shift toward a buyer’s market. Ticketing systems are increasingly integrated into these services because of their ability to bundle multiple support channels, enhance the support’s knowledge base, and cut costs.
This thesis aims to create a comparative overview of ticketing systems, which evaluates eight selected market alternatives and one tentative in-house solution according to their compliance with the requirements of the focus company. This comparison is made by exploring the literature concerning build-or-buy, software evaluation and selection, and analyzing several guided interviews.
The results seek to aid the company in deciding on a ticketing system that meets its requirements, as well as to act as a blueprint for other SMEs. The findings include two recommended alternatives in conjunction with further strategic and decision-making considerations. The study ends with an outlook for academia and businesses.
Reviewing Expats' perceptions on global leadership competencies: the case of multinationals in Asia
(2023)
In an era of increasing globalization, companies struggling with a leadership gap in Asia feel compelled to equip their leaders with global leadership competencies that meet international standards. Therefore, this paper clearly defines the role of the worldwide standard of global competencies and how it contributes to a company's human resource development program. We use a multinational company as a case study. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore how expats perceive global leadership competencies in relation to global standards and the personnel development program. By reflecting on the staff development program concerning the standardized global leadership competencies, the case study can be beneficial for the company as opportunities for improvement of the development program were found, and approaches were presented on this basis.
The representation of female leaders in the STEM-field, especially the telecommunication industry, is rising in the 21st century. In contrast to men in leadership positions, there still exists an incongruity for female leaders, as the stereotypes associated with a leader correspond to those of a man. Therefore, women in leadership positions must decide between fulfilling their social role as being caring and warm, or to fulfil the leadership stereotype of being competent and dominant. To date, they cannot display their female side when in leadership positions, as the expectations one has about the ideal leader do not align with the emotional side of a woman.
The qualitative study is based on the classification of women and leaders in the Stereotype Content Model. The research is conducted in a telecommunication company. Therefor, employees of female leaders are interviewed about their perception of their leader. The findings of the research prove, that female leaders in the telecommunication industry are perceived against the female stereotypes. The findings show the female leaders are perceived rather male, meaning they are more competent than warm.
It is shown that female leaders must act against their social role, which has negative consequences for them. Consequences can be the avoidance of attempting to compete for certain roles, lower performance or social or economic punishment.
This thesis explores the impact of culture and diversity on multicultural teams and the potential benefits of adopting a transcultural approach to enhance team collaboration and effectiveness. The study highlights that cultural differences can present challenges to team collaboration and communication, but a transcultural approach can promote appreciation and understanding of these differences, leading to stronger relationships and greater success in a global business environment.
Intercultural competences, such as an open mind and flexibility, are essential for overcoming challenges arising from cultural differences in teams, and experience and training are recommended to develop these competences. Effective diversity management and developing intercultural competences are essential to thrive in a multicultural environment. Transcultural learning provides a valuable framework for understanding cultural diversity and fostering mutual understanding and respect between cultures. Adopting a transcultural approach can create commonalities and value in terms of global unity and understanding, making it an essential component of international business in today's globalized society.
Transcultural Student Research on SDGs - A Higher Education Project for Sustainable Development
(2023)
Abstract
In the last decade, green bonds have become one of the most prominent and popular
financing instruments for mitigating climate change. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impacts of green bonds with regard to climate neutrality and compare their performance with conventional bonds. Therefore, the following research questions were answered: What are the latest developments in the green bond market? What is the present state of standardized regulations? How do green bonds perform compared to their conventional counterparts? How transparent and "green" is the current green bond market? The paper is based on a literature review in the theoretical part and a practical part illustrating an insight into the current green bond market through three case studies.
In the green bond market, which has been growing steadily since 2015, Europe's increasingly strong and prominent position is evident. With a global market volume of over $500 billion in 2021, there has been a substantial increase in market growth during the past few years. A large body of literature shows that green bonds do not exhibit significant differences in performance compared to their conventional counterparts. As the green bond market matures, the phenomenon of a green bond premium is slowly disappearing. Which is in line with the results of the case studies. The green bonds outperform the conventional bonds and achieve a higher return. Further, a lack of standardized regulations can be observed. There are not one but many voluntary standards and regulations. As a result, the actual sustainability and impact of green bonds are difficult to measure.