Andrew J. Czuchry

Managing the project management process

The effective executive operating in today’s global environment must formulate, operate and execute across multi‐faceted environmental and organizational modes for different projects throughout their distinct phases in order to achieve results that meet shareholder expectations. In this study, the authors draw on a stream of research dealing with domestic and international project managers as well as the practical experience of the lead author to provide an informational integrated approach to help senior executives and project managers manage the strategic and operational facets of different projects. In this context, a practical roadmap for identifying problems and implementing timely corrective actions to improve projects’ success is advocated by this study.

E-commerce implementation challenges: small to medium-sized versus large organisations

E-commerce offers business organisations significant operational and strategic opportunities. However, the implementation of effective e-commerce-based business models is not without serious organisational technological challenges. Some of these challenges tend to hinder the implementation of e-commerce in small to medium-sized organisations. The objective of this research is to shed some light on these challenges. Based on the results of this study, some lessons learned and their practical implications are underscored.

In search of an optimal cost of quality: an integrated framework of operational efficiency and strategic effectiveness

Abstract The literature related to the cost of quality (COQ) and optimal quality level was reviewed and critiqued. The authors have proposed a framework for addressing the optimal COQ within the context of operational efficiency and strategic effectiveness. This proposed framework presents a first step toward providing scholars and practicing managers with a conceptual view of the behavior of the COQ and the interaction between cost categories from both operational and strategic perspectives. The proposed approach is realistic, as it utilizes an open system view of todays modern business organization and the competitive environment in which it operates.

An Empirical Investigation of International Project Management Practices: The Role of International Experience

This paper reports the results of a survey of 56 United States (U.S.) and 25 international construction project managers. Project management areas and related tools important to international construction project management success are identified and analyzed. The results show that significant gaps exist between the existing body of knowledge and the practice of international project management in relation to variables that are relevant to construction project management success. Also reported are the differences between U.S. construction project managers and their international counterparts concerning the art and practice of project management. The implications of the findings of this study to business organizations and institutions of higher learning are examined in the context of a conceptual research framework.

A systematic approach to promoting effective innovation: a conceptual framework and managerial implications

This applied research project draws the practical experience of the authors, projects sponsored by their respective institutions of higher learning and efforts of an alliance of technology-based organisations. In addition, some basic concepts, tools and philosophies which are well-established in previous applied research are utilised. With this in mind, the objective of this paper is to shed some practical light on the role and process of traditional and strategic innovation. To achieve this goal, the authors draw on a series of conceptual frameworks and practical guidelines. These frameworks capitalise on the open system nature of todays dynamic organisations. Although the approach presented in this study applies to large businesses as well as small- to medium-sized firms, especially it is helpful to small- to medium-sized technology-based businesses as they attempt to manage the rapid growth in their demand through innovation and innovative strategies.

An open system approach to higher learning: the role of joint ventures with business

The gap between higher learning practices and business expectations in terms of preparing engineering, technology, and business students is significant. This paper offers an innovative approach toward narrowing that gap. The approach offered stresses an open system orientation and partnerships between business and education. This approach was utilized successfully, resulting in win‐win outcomes for both business and higher education. The results of a mini‐case study are presented and their implications are discussed.

Application of root cause analysis in a service delivery operational environment

Presents an approach for applying root cause analysis (RCA) in a service delivery system for the purpose of investigating and correcting service delivery system problems. Utilizes a methodology that incorporates and integrates RCA into the service system by combining the approach with other managerial tools, a proactive continuous improvement (CI) philosophy, and an open system perspective of the organization and its environment. Stresses relevance of both operational and strategic implications that result from service delivery problems. The development and utility of the proposed methodology presented in this research is illustrated using both a hypothetical example and a real world application.

Managing the quality effort in a health care setting: an application.

Recent marketplace realities and trends have forced health care institutions to adopt strategic orientations that stress a customer focus. Central to such strategic orientations is the effective utilization of service quality practices and philosophies. Toward that end, this research offers health care institutions an affordable methodology. A real-life application of the rapid assessment methodology (RAM) in a health care operational setting is presented. Finally, a framework to guide the implementation of the RAM methodology is outlined and explored.

Improving E-Business with A Baldrige-Based Methodology

Abstract The dot.com crash has caused confusion about the practices and potential of E-business. IT managers are at a loss for practical methods that integrate strategic and operational efforts into a systematic E-business strategy, which is hindering the effective use of the E-business model. This article presents a Baldrige-based, rapid assessment implementation methodology for directing and integrating the different facets of E-business activities, resources, and decisions into a practical organizational strategy. the results from two pilot programs illustrate that this methodology is practical and contributes to the success and viability of E-business initiatives.

A systematic approach to improving quality: a framework and a field study

Explores the dynamic relationships involved in achieving a strategic quality orientation in a business setting. The relevant literature was revived. A methodology for implementing a strategic quality perspective was developed and tested in a field study. The methodology stresses both the technical and cultural aspects of the implementation process and provides a road map for other businesses pursuing ISO 9000 and total quality management.