This study proposes a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method to support strategic decision-makers in choosing a project management research agenda. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) model is the basic tool used in this study. It is a mathematical tool for evaluating decisions with multiple alternatives by decomposing them into successive levels according to their degree of importance. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) oriented theme of project management was chosen from among four themes that emerged from a strategic monitoring study. The FAHP method is an effective decision-making tool for multiple aspects of project management. It eliminates subjectivity and produces decisions based on consistent judgment.
The performance of Public Enterprises (PEs) in Namibia has been a long and contentious issue, clamored by continuous bailouts in the face of constant poor performance. The trend of financial bailouts to PEs in Namibia over the years has attracted increased attention into the dynamics of poor PE performance and their fiscal burden on the state. The Namibian government has taken active steps in cutting on PE bailouts and demanding improved performance or face closure. By looking at recent developments in the governance of PEs in Namibia, the purpose and objective of the current study is to analyze whether the current stance and trajectory of government decisions spells a post-honeymoon period in which poor performing PEs will ‘wither and survive or die’ if they do not improve their sustainability index by not relying on financial bailouts. This analysis is aided by the insights provided by the stakeholder, institutional and principal-agent theories. Through the qualitative research method, this study finds that the Namibian government has taken a new attitude and approach in which it will no longer blindly accept and tolerate the poor performance of PEs through continuous bailouts as seen in the past. PEs that are withering will now either survive (through reforms) or die (through liquidation or dissolution).
This study investigates the influence of government expenditure on the economic growth of the ASEAN-5 countries from 2000 to 2021. The study employs the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) ARDL model and robust least squares method. The importance of the current study lies in its analysis of the short and long-run impact of government expenditure on economic growth in ASEAN-5. The empirical findings demonstrate a positive relationship between government expenditure and economic growth in the long run. These results align with the Keynesian perspective, asserting that government expenditure stimulates economic growth. The study also confirms one-way causality from government expenditure to economic growth, supporting the Keynesian hypothesis. These insights hold significance for policymakers in the ASEAN-5, highlighting the necessity for policies promoting the effective allocation of productive government expenditure. Moreover, it is important to enhance systems that promote economic growth and efficiently allocated economic resources toward productive expenditures while also maintaining effective governance over such expenditures.
This study conducts a comparative analysis of various machine learning and deep learning models for predicting order quantities in supply chain tiers. The models employed include XGBoost, Random Forest, CNN-BiLSTM, Linear Regression, Support Vector Regression (SVR), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM), Bidirectional GRU (BiGRU), Conv1D-BiLSTM, Attention-LSTM, Transformer, and LSTM-CNN hybrid models. Experimental results show that the XGBoost, Random Forest, CNN-BiLSTM, and MLP models exhibit superior predictive performance. In particular, the XGBoost model demonstrates the best results across all performance metrics, attributed to its effective learning of complex data patterns and variable interactions. Although the KNN model also shows perfect predictions with zero error values, this indicates a need for further review of data processing procedures or model validation methods. Conversely, the BiLSTM, BiGRU, and Transformer models exhibit relatively lower performance. Models with moderate performance include Linear Regression, RNN, Conv1D-BiLSTM, Attention-LSTM, and the LSTM-CNN hybrid model, all displaying relatively higher errors and lower coefficients of determination (R²). As a result, tree-based models (XGBoost, Random Forest) and certain deep learning models like CNN-BiLSTM are found to be effective for predicting order quantities in supply chain tiers. In contrast, RNN-based models (BiLSTM, BiGRU) and the Transformer show relatively lower predictive power. Based on these results, we suggest that tree-based models and CNN-based deep learning models should be prioritized when selecting predictive models in practical applications.
The business environment in the modern era is witnessing numerous Intellectual Changes, Technological developments, and increasingly Complex Situations, which has led to a need for effective Leadership in the Business Sectors. This leadership plays a role in transforming companies into giant corporations that serve as a true foundation for enhancing and improving Job Competencies (JC)., The study aimed to analyze the impact of the Soft Skills approach in Human Resources (analytical and critical thinking, decision-making and problem-solving, planning and organization, teamwork) on developing Job Competencies (productivity, technical, managerial) in Petroleum Sector Companies in Egypt. The researchers employed the descriptive-analytical method to study the phenomenon, conducting the study on stratified random samples consisting of 379 managers and a sample of 382 employees from Petroleum Sector Companies. The study utilized the SPSS and AMOS Software Programs. The study found statistically significant differences at the (0.01) level between the average scores of managers and employees regarding soft skills in human resources and job competencies, with managers scoring higher. Additionally, the study revealed a statistically significant direct causal effect at the (0.01) level of Human Resources Soft Skills on Job Competencies in Petroleum Sector Companies., Finally, a proposal was developed for enhancing Job Competencies in Petroleum Companies in Egypt based on the application of human resources Soft Skills, alongside future research directions and practical implications.
With the rapid increase in electric bicycle (e-bikes) use, the rate of associated traffic accidents has also escalated. Prior studies have extensively examined e-bike riders’ injury risks, yet there is a limited understanding of how their behavior contributes to these accidents. This study aims to explore the relationship between e-bike riders’ risk-taking behaviors and the incidence of traffic accidents, and to propose targeted safety measures based on these insights. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates quantitative data from traffic accident reports and qualitative observations from naturalistic studies. The study employs a binary logistic regression model to analyze risk factors and uses observational data to substantiate the model findings. The analysis reveals that assertive driving behaviors among e-bike riders, such as running red lights and speeding, significantly contribute to the high rate of accidents. Moreover, the lack of protective gear and inadequate safety training are identified as critical factors increasing the risk of severe injuries. The study concludes that comprehensive policy interventions, including stricter enforcement of traffic laws and mandatory safety training for e-bike riders, are essential to mitigate the risks associated with e-bike use. The findings advocate for an integrated approach to urban traffic management that enhances the safety of all road users, particularly vulnerable e-bike riders.
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