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Publications

Publications by Ana Cristina Simões

2017

Hospital centre performance dimensions and internal stakeholder valuation: a case study

Authors
Simoes, A; Azevedo, A; Goncalves, S;

Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTIVITY AND PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

Abstract
Purpose - Hospital centres (HCs) are the result of a horizontal integration of two or more hospital units. The benefits of this integration have been presented in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to define the hospital performance dimensions most valued by HC internal stakeholders, and to evaluate if the importance given to each dimension is different when comparing professional groups. Design/methodology/approach - An in-depth HC case study using a quantitative survey based on the Parsons' social system action theory to achieve this goal was conducted which embraces the four major models of organizational performance. In the final version of the survey, 37 items were retained for analysis. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted for a final sample of 365 participants, through principal component analysis, with oblique rotation and the Kaiser criterion. Findings - Four factors were retained: "Human resources development and Internal Processes", "Attractiveness/Openness", "Public service mission" and "Interpersonal relationships". The means factor scores only reveal statistical differences between the attractiveness/openness factor and the remaining three factors. A shared view was found in this study among the three groups of internal stakeholders: physicians, caregivers and administrative staff. Originality/value - The results of this study suggest that the HC performance concept should be expanded and performance measurement frameworks with a greater scope should be used. Interpersonal relationships, the human resources development and the public service are considered important dimensions for the performance measurement of the HC. Additionally, a consensual view regarding the most valued performance dimension could contribute to a beneficial and healthy working environment and improvements in HC performance.

2013

Dimensions to consider in the development of Hospital Centres performance evaluation framework

Authors
Simoes, A; Azevedo, A; Goncalves, S;

Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTEGRATED CARE

Abstract

2014

External stakeholders' expectations and experiences regarding the Portuguese Hospital Centres - a qualitative study results

Authors
Simoes, A; Azevedo, A; Goncalves, S;

Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTEGRATED CARE

Abstract

2017

Implementing cyber-physical systems in manufacturing

Authors
Barros, AC; Simões, AC; Toscano, C; Marques, A; Rodrigues, JC; Azevedo, A;

Publication
Proceedings of International Conference on Computers and Industrial Engineering, CIE

Abstract
Cyber-physical systems (CPS) are a new generation of systems that integrate computation and physical processes interacting with humans in different ways. Integrated networks of computers, sensors and similar technologies monitor and control the physical processes, reporting relevant data to planners and decision-makers, and vice versa. By means of case research, this paper analyzes the implementation of cyber-physical systems aiming at lead-time reduction in two manufacturing contexts, namely footwear and natural cork stoppers. The results of this research contribute to literature and practice with a conceptual framework for the implementation of cyber-physical systems and the discussion of the challenges of implementing this technology.

2018

Conceptual framework for the identification of influential contexts of the adoption decision

Authors
Simoes, AC; Barros, AC; Soares, AL;

Publication
2018 IEEE 16TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON INDUSTRIAL INFORMATICS (INDIN)

Abstract
The decision to adopt new technologies is the most important stage in integrating a new technology into the ongoing processes of the organization and also to obtain benefits from its routine use. This paper proposes an integrated framework that combines Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) Theory, Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and Institutional Theory (INT) to characterize the critical factors influencing advanced technologies adoption in manufacturing context. This conceptual framework identifies three contextual environments - innovation, internal organizational and external environmental - that can influence the adoption decision along with some sub-contexts from the literature that may be considered. This framework can be used as starting point to explore in depth influential factors in advanced technologies in manufacturing contexts. Additionally, this framework can assist companies to develop adoption process plans as well as managerial practices that consider the role of these factors and thus lead to successful implementations.

2019

Drivers Impacting Cobots Adoption in Manufacturing Context: A Qualitative Study

Authors
Simoes, AC; Soares, AL; Barros, AC;

Publication
ADVANCES IN MANUFACTURING II, VOL 1 - SOLUTIONS FOR INDUSTRY 4.0

Abstract
Today's manufacturing environment is increasingly pressured to higher flexibility induced by uncertain production volumes as well as uncertain product lifetime. A way to improve productivity in a flexible production system is by using a safe and flexible cooperation between robot and operator. Therefore, manufacturing companies are experiencing an increase in human-robot interactions and in the use of collaborative robots (cobots). To make full use of cobots, it is essential to understand the drivers for their adoption as well as how these drivers are aligned with the companies' strategic objectives. By means of in-depth interviews in six companies in Portugal and France, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the drivers that influence the intent to adopt, or the effective adoption, of cobots and the alignment of these drivers with the strategic objectives of the company. Empirical results reveal "operational efficiency" and "ergonomics and human factors" concerns as important drivers in the adoption intent. In terms of strategic objectives, it was found that drivers are aligned with productivity and flexibility improvement as well as quality improvement strategic objectives. Understanding these drivers can help in motivating manufacturing companies to adopt cobots, in facilitating their adoption, and in reaping the benefits of this technology.

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