Robert F. Cope

Capacity and economies of scale in electric power transmission

Abstract Historically, most analyses of electric utility cost structures have focused almost exclusively on the generation sector of the industry. Electric restructuring raises a number of new questions which require analysis of electric utility operations in other sectors of the industry. Most restructuring proposals call for continued regulation of the transmission sector of the industry based upon the presumption that it is a natural monopoly. The presumption, however, is based upon little empirical evidence. We present a modified translog cost model which examines whether economies of scale genuinely exist in the provision of electric transmission service. We find strong economies over all relevant ranges of capacity and across all regions of the USA. The result is timely since it supports existing restructuring policies calling for continued regulation of the transmission portion of the industry.

Evaluating key factors in supplier selection for micro-businesses: implications for buyer satisfaction

Final quality of products/services starts with suppliers in the supply chain. Problems can occur if suppliers do not deliver the quantities requested in full, on time, or buyers select suppliers solely on the basis of lowest price. Supplier selection has been studied for large businesses but not for very small (micro) businesses. Therefore, a survey was administered to micro–businesses to determine: what factors are important to micro–businesses in selecting suppliers and how satisfied they are with their suppliers. Factors included Brand Name, Consistency, Cost/Lower Price, Loyalty, Quality, and Warranty. Results indicated that none of the factors were unimportant. However, buyer satisfaction was found to be dependent on Quality, Brand Name, and the Length of Time of the Buyer/Supplier Relationship. Additionally, it was concluded that quality, along with complete, on–time delivery are key to buyer satisfaction and may help suppliers achieve preferred status with micro–business buyers.

Quality control for software warranties: a conceptual and economic perspective

Looks at ways software quality can be monitored and improved. Emphasizes the ability to deliver a software warranty by implementing the methodologies of statistical quality control in the software development process. Defines the quality of software, lists quality control activities and outlines the incomplete software life cycle. Provides a case study and looks at the economic value of warranty provision. Concludes that to work it must have good management but it could provide real changes in quality.