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  • 1.
    Ainegren, Mats
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jensen, Kurt
    Syddansk Universitet, Odense, Danmark.
    Rosdahl, Hans
    Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, GIH, Stockholm.
    Breathing resistance in automated metabolic systems is high in comparison with the Douglas Bag method and previous recommendations2018In: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part P: Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology, ISSN 1754-3371, Vol. 232, no 2, p. 122-130Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the resistance (RES) to breathing in metabolic systems used for the distribution and measurement of pulmonary gas exchange. A mechanical lung simulator was used to standardize selected air flow rates ( , L/s). The delta pressure (∆p, Pa) between ambient air and the air inside the equipment was measured in the breathing valve’s mouthpiece adapter for four metabolic systems and four types of breathing valves. RES for the inspiratory and expiratory sides was calculated as RES = ∆p / , Pa/L/s. The results for RES showed significant (p < 0.05) between-group variance among the tested metabolic systems, as well as the breathing valves and between most of the completed . The lowest RES among the metabolic systems was found for a Douglas Bag system, with approximately half of the RES compared to the automated metabolic systems. The automated systems were found to have higher RES already at low  in comparison to previous recommendations. For the hardware components, the highest RES was found for the breathing valves while the lowest RES was found for the hoses. Conclusion: The results showed that RES in metabolic systems can be minimized through conscious choices of system design and hardware components. 

  • 2.
    Ainegren, Mats
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jonsson, Patrik
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Electronics Design.
    Drag Area, Frontal Area and Drag Coefficient in Cross-Country Skiing Techniques2018In: Proceedings, Volume 2, ISEA 2018 / [ed] Hugo Espinosa, David Rowlands, Jonathan Shepherd, David Thiel, MDPI, 2018, Vol. 2, article id 313Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this study was to investigate the air drag, frontal area and coefficient of drag of cross-country skiing classical and free style techniques. One highly skilled cross-country skier performed skiing-like classical and free style techniques on a force plate in a wind tunnel. The skier was also photographed from the front in order to analyze the projected frontal area, which was determined from digital images using Matlab. From the results of the air drag and the frontal area measurements, the drag coefficient was also calculated. The results can be used by researchers to calculate the theoretical effect of air drag on cross-country skiing performance.

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  • 3.
    Akram, Hoger
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Hur påverkar ledares beteende medarbetares arbetstillfredsställelse och arbetsmotivation?2019Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The employee's job satisfaction has received increasing attention from both researchers and employers. The majority of nowadays organizations executing continuously various surveys to find out how satisfied employees are with their tasks, work environment and development opportunities. Although that there are not many research studies that specifically show how leadership behaviours can affect employees job satisfaction, there is many studies that indicates there is a correlation between them.

     

    The purpose of this study is, to contribute to a better understanding of how different leadership behaviours can affect employee’s satisfaction and work motivation at the work. The quantitative research method has been applied, to address the relation between these subjects. Furthermore, the study has been carried out using a selection method known as snowball selection. The selection method has been an effective method for achieving many participants, which is an important parameter for statistical analysis. Total 306 employees from different companies with different work roles participated in the survey. However, the result of the study is based on 301 employees, since five of the participants were excluded during the analysis due to a lack of answers in the survey.

    The result of this study shows that leadership behaviours which concern employee participation, positive communication, employee development, social responsibility and empathy covary with employees work satisfaction and motivation. This means leadership behaviours have a significant impact on employees job satisfaction, which in turn impact employee work motivation.

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  • 4.
    Andersson, Linnea
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Mentorskapets bidrag till Offensiv kvalitetsutveckling: -En kartläggning av effekter i Västra Götalands län 2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Abstract

    The purpose was to investigate the extent of mentoring within companies and organizations in Västra Götaland County. The purpose was also to investigate the effect of mentoring by measuring results. Questions raised at work were whether there is a mentoring program or equivalent in the company / organization and which are covered? In what ways are mentoring conducted and increased employee satisfaction for those who apply it and if it is possible to distinguish patterns in different types of mentoring? If so, what effects do these have on employees? One issue was also how these patterns can be used to increase employee satisfaction.

    The work is based on a pragmatic world view with the research design explaining sequential mixed method and has an abductive approach.

    The survey was sent to 1234 companies and organizations in Västra Götaland County with 50 or more employees at the workplace. The response rate was approximately 7%. Of these, seven participated in an in-depth interview. It also emerged that there is conceptual confusion regarding the word mentoring, with this in mind the figures given are uncertain. More than a third of the respondents indicated that they had no mentoring due to lack of time. There are basically six different variants on which mentoring is conducted, formally where managers have a mentor, formally where everyone gets a mentor, informally where everyone has a mentor, informally where the managers have a mentor, a mix between formal / informal and finally the companies / organizations that call introduction / training for mentoring.

    The questions in the questionnaire and interview are based on the cornerstone model. However, given the lack of evidence, it is not possible to draw any generalizable conclusions. However, the author can note that the most obvious effects were participation, security, communication, getting into the organizational culture and keeping down staff turnover and sick leave. In addition to this, desirable effects would be to be able to make good recruits and get a committed management. In the survey, fairly similar results were found in the comparison between formal and informal mentoring. Based on these results, it is difficult to determine whether mentoring and, if so, what variant the company or organization should invest in. This is likely to depend on what the rest of the organization looks like and whether needs exist.

  • 5.
    Anjert, Katarina
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Förutsättningar för ett proaktivt arbete i skolan: en systematisk litteraturöversikt av den proaktiva modellen Response to Intervention2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The education system has historically had a reactive rather than a proactive approach to its customers, that is, students' needs and the conditions for achieving the school's goals. A reactive way of working is still the norm, although today we are aware that the effect of reactive improvements is limited. We are in a paradigm shift where the education system seeks to find models that are based on a modern view of quality, which means putting the customer's needs at the center.

     

    The aim of the study is to contribute further knowledge of how we can drive quality improvements, thus increasing customer value within the Swedish education system. The study is conducted with a systematic literature review of articles on the model Response to Intervention. Categorization is based on Bergman and Klefsjö (2012) model for quality development based on customer needs and satisfaction, and Österbergs (2014) structural quality dimension.

     

    The prerequisites for driving quality improvements using the RTI model can be summarized with; competent staff, the right equipment for carrying out and analyzing screenings of the students, as well as time and support for the work. All the values in the quality management model are mentioned in the articles, which allows us to assume that the RTI model can be used to develop quality and create customer value in the school.

     

    It also requires a culture that values measurement and working with data in order for the RTI model to contribute to quality development. Since the US school system, where the RTI model has been applied so far, is more result-oriented than the Swedish, we assume that the US system is more beneficial for the implementation of the model to be successful.

     

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  • 6.
    Bengtsson, Robin
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Metodutveckling av vidhäftningsbehandling för textila vävar2018Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    At   Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics rubber coated fabrics are manufactured.   In order to apply rubber to fabrics it is indispensable to first add a rubber   adhesion to the fabric. At Trelleborg ECF a special calendaring machine is   used for this operation. While it is an effective machine for big production   volumes it is not as effective when new products are developed. Therefore two   new lab machines has been procured so that new products can be developed in   the lab. The intent of this project is to evaluate the new machines, find a   connection between lab and production machines and appraise the factors that   affect the adhesion. This has been done by testing different combinations of   settings in the process when the adhesion is added to the fabric.   Additionally an analysis of the production process has been done to manage   the connection between lab machines and the production machine. Though no   fully complete connection between the machines has been found the factors   affecting the adhesion has been evaluated and based on the knowledge obtained   from the project a proposition on how to improve the production process has   been made.

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  • 7.
    Bergsten, Maria
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Reflektion - vägen till en lärande organisation?: En studie om reflektionens betydelse för yrkesmässig utvecklingoch organisatoriskt lärande.2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    In connection with a state organization undergoing areorganisation in which the organisational structure was changedand the governance- and management philosophy took a newdirection, the journey to become a “learning organisation” started.As part of the organisation´s work with improvements, a newmethod was implemented; refection in everyday life (RIV). RIVaims to develop the employees in their professional role, increaseknowledge transfer, awaken the power of innovation fromemployees and contribute to the development of the learningorganisation. The hermeneutical spiral has permeated the studywhich has an abductive approach and a mixed design. The purposeof the study is to investigate whether RIV has contributed toprofessional development for the employees and whether RIV hasserved as a contribution to the learning organisation. Data havebeen obtained through a quantitative / qualitative survey andthrough three qualitative interviews with managers. The resultshows that RIV has a positive impact on employees´ professionaldevelopment and that RIV contributes to the learning organisation.However, there are obstacles that must be crossed and resistancesthat must be dealt with before RIV gives greater effect. The author8. Handledare9. Examinator10. Termin11. Övrigt/Anmärkningbelieves that organisations need to identify and satisfy basic needsof the employees before they are invited to engage in organisationaldevelopment and improvement. The organisational structure needsto be explained so it´s clear to all employees, including managers,where, in the organisation, improvements are relevant. Engagedleadership needs to be strengthened and education efforts needs tobe implemented to make both managers and employees understandthe purpose, value and benefits of reflective conversations in thelearning organisation.

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  • 8.
    Bergström, Anna Charlotta
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jacobsson, Linda
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Produktutveckling av sitski: En uppdaterad modell för längdskidåkning på elitnivå2020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Performing physical activities should be possible foreveryone. Through parasport, i.e. sports adapted forpeople with disabilities, this becomes possible foreveryone - despite differences in physical conditions.Cross country sit-skiing is a competitive sport in theparasport community which has been growing a lot interms of number of athletes. Performing Cross countrysit-skiing, the skier sits in a type of sledge, which is calleda sit-ski. The sit-ski is usually fitted after each individualand can therefore have big differences in appearance andfunctionality. In competitive sports, it is important tohave well-adjusted equipment that also holds a lowweight.With the purpose to improve one skiers performancewhilst also making it possible for others to do the same,the task given by Sports Tech Research Centre was toevaluate and develop a sit-ski used by an athlete incompetition. The aim being to produce a documentationof production for a new sit-ski, adjusted to the skierspreferences.The work has gone through the four phases: prestudy,concept generation, concept selection and detail design.The prestudy analyzed the market in general and anunderstanding for the sport and sit-skis generally wasestablished. The concept generation consisted ofexamining details in sit-skis already on the market, andbeginning to produce possible solutions, which werecombined into different concepts. In the conceptselection, the concepts were checked and compared tothe requirements and to each other. The two conceptswere further refined, to finally be able choose a final one.The final concept was developed further in the detaildesign phase and checked with further FEM-analysis.The result being an improved sit-ski, although with aweight comparable to the old one, a wider angle at thehip to hopefully improve skiing efficiency. The new sit-ski is more ergonomic than the original one, better fittedand more personalized.

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  • 9.
    Bergström, Anton
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Bredhe, Emelie
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Krympstudie inom additiv tillverkning: En fallstudie med elektronstrålesmältning av Ti6Al4V2018Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This project is a about studying and anylazing shrinkage during the   use of a EBM-machine in the material Ti6A14V. The study is done to anaylze   how prints of diffrent size and printing direction are affected by the   shrinkage. The project is done by two students at Mid Sweden University in   Östersund and the project is requested by the research department of the   university. Research has been made before the start of the project to give   the students a solid understanding in the matter. During the research for   information it was found that the shrink could be minimized by using   supportmaterial in the print. The design for the parts that was going to be   printed have been chosen through earlier studies of the matter where stairs   was recommended to easy be able to see what goes on in the different parts of   a print. Some details was also created so that measurements considering sharp   edges and round details could be checked for deformations if there was enough   time. Those were never measured since all the time of this project was   focused around the stairs. The stairs were printed in three different sizes.   They were also printed with and without supportmaterial and both standing up   and lying down in the printer EBM Arcam S12. When the parts had been printed   they were measured with a microscope called “Dino-Light edge Digital   Microscope”. The information gotten from these measurements were put into a   Microsoft Excel document where tables and graphs were created to make it easy   to spot the tendencies of the prints. The tendencies that were noticeable was   that the first and third step of every print had more shrink than the others.   This occurred no matter the size the stairs were but did not occur in the   parts printed with supportmaterial. No tendencies were noticed in the prints   with supportmaterial and the shrinkage that was noted in these prints might   also be because of the human factor. The trends are clearly visible in the   parts printed without supportmaterial. This might be because of the different   material in the printing plate that is stainless steel instead of Ti6Al4V.   This might cause problem for the layers that are printed closest to the   plate. The reason for shrinking in the details is also because of the fact   that the powder that is being printed gets melted and therefor shrinks. This   results in a thicker layer of powder everytime the powder is applied to the   printing surface. This is a problem that goes on throughout the whole print   no matter if supportmaterial is used or not. The work completed is considered to be well done.

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  • 10.
    Blomqvist, Eric
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Adl Zarabi, Kaiwan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Asyl 360 - ett paradigmskifte?: Migrationsverkets utveckling mot en processorienterad verksamhet2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Within several Swedish government agencies, the process-based approach has become a method for increasing efficiency within the organizations. The Swedish Migration Agency, an agency that received a record number of refugee applicants during the great refugee crisis in the mid-2010s, has recently begun to implement a new process-based approach in the asylum field called "Asyl 360". This case study examines how the employees at one of the units that implemented Asylum 360 feels that the new process-based working method has affected them. It also intends to investigate what process maturity level the investigated asylum review unit is at, with the help of a self-developed, context-adapted process maturity model. The methodological focus of the study is a qualitative case study where the collected data has been collected through interviews with employees of the researched organization. The result and analysis of the study shows what level of process maturity the studied organization is currently on. It also evaluates the functionality of the self-developed, context-adapted process maturity model

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  • 11.
    Blomström, Tommy
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Lindberg, Victor
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Strategier för att minimera porositet vid tillverkning med Electron Beam Melting: Hur smältstrategier och geometrisk utformning påverkar porositet och porfördelning i komponenter tillverkade med EBM.2020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Additive manufacturing (AM) is a manufacturing method that creates components by adding material where there previously was none, this enables fabrication of geometries which otherwise had been impossible or very time consuming. Electron Beam Melting is a powder based AM-method where a metallic powder is melted by an electron beam. The two largest issues with powder based AM is its high surface roughness and internal porosity of manufactured components. The uneven surface is remedied where necessary by making the part larger than its final dimensions and machining it to size while the porosity today is rectified with HIP, Hot Isostatic Pressing. This works aims to minimize the porosity in situ in order to improve the reliability and repeatability of the material properties of EBM-manufactured parts through the optimization of the melting strategy. This has been done through an experiment in which five melting strategies have been applied to four different test rods after which the porosity was examined in terms of porosity and pore distribution. The five strategies were S0, Standard; S1, One-way hatch before contour; S2.0, Only contour outside and in; S2.1, Only contour inside and out; S2.2, Like S2.1 without MultiBeam, and the four test bar designs were a cuboid, a cylinder, a tube with 3 mm thick walls and an hourglass. The lowest porosity was given by S2.1 with a mean average density of 99 993% and highest was S2.0 with 98.63% density whereas S0 resulted in a mean average density of 99.94%.

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  • 12.
    Bogren, Maria
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Business, Economics and Law.
    Cawthorn, Annika
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Sörensson, Anna
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Business, Economics and Law.
    Sustainability among Large Sized Companies in Europe: Are there National Differences in their Sustainability Information?2018In: Uddevalla Symposium 2018: Diversity, Innovation, Entrepreneurship - Regional, Urban, National and International Perspectives: Revised papers first presented at the 21 st Uddevalla Symposium 14-16 June, 2018, Luleå, Sweden / [ed] Iréne Bernhard, University West, School of Business, Economics and IT , 2018, p. 149-164Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 13.
    Borg, Daniel
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Produktutveckling av skyddshuv till tiltrotator: Produktutvecklingsprocess och konceptframtagning2022Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    engcon® is a company that works with product development. The company’s most profitable products are tiltrotators, which can be described as a working arm for excavators. The purpose of this work was to develop an alternative concept for a protective hood for tiltrotator EC209, as the current solution has received complaints about variations and internal stresses because of the existing manufacturing method. The company is also interested in a reduced cost

    and slimmer design. The goal was to develop a more user-friendly and cost-effective concept and test it against production. The product development process consisted of a current situation analysis, where mapping of the current status was carried out. A data collection from stakeholders consisted of opportunity sampling and participant observation. Literature search was carried out to obtain information on steel and polymer materials as well as the manufacturing methods including injection molding and bending. Data collection was implemented to gather relevant criteria and establish a product specification. Based on functional criteria, concepts were generated using a creative and systematic method with the aim of obtaining a number of particular solution alternatives. Then with a morphological matrix good solution alternatives were suggested. Choice of concept was done using elimination matrix and relative decision matrix. Finally, the suggested final concept was configured and detailed construction of final concept was reached through few iterations. Present work resulted in the development and presentation of a concept that facilitates assembly together with a design intended for the manufacturing method, which enables minimized variations in manufacturing. Additively manufactured iterations to test against production together with a supplementary cost calculation for the production of these designs and estimated cost calculation for injection molding based on close dialogue with the supplier were carried out. The goals of the work are met and a final concept helping easier assembly and having a reduced unit price compared to the current solution is presented.

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  • 14.
    Boström, Jonas
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Hillborg, Helene
    Region Västernorrland.
    Lilja, Johan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Cultural Impact of Applying User Involvement  for Improving Healthcare Quality: A review of the impact on attitudes, values and assumptions among healthcare professionals and users2016In: Proceedings of the 19th QMOD Conference: Building a Culture for Quality, Innovation and Sustainability, 2016Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose

    The purpose of this study is to provide a review of the impact on culture (attitudes, values and assumptions) among both healthcare professionals, as well as users, when involving users for improving quality in healthcare.

    Method

    The paper is based on an extensive, narrative literature review, covering 3786 papers.

    Findings

    The results indicate that there is currently limited research focusing on the impact of user involvement in quality improvement processes regarding professionals’ and users´ attitudes, values and/or assumptions. The articles identified during the study mentions situations and things which are said, during the process of development, and which can be interpreted as change in the culture. Although few articles specifically draw conclusions on user involvement as a “tool” for cultural change, the authors interpret several findings which strengthens that theory.

    Research limitations

    Research published in other databases could have been missed. The authors have tried to avoid this by using a snowball method reading references in identified articles.

    Practical implications

    Future research is needed to see if involvement activities in quality improvement processes can affect attitudes, values and assumptions in a positive way.

    Originality

    The review provides a platform for both future research and the development of current practice within the area. There has been literature reviews showing obstacles and enablers when using patients, users and relatives in quality improvement work, but few which investigates cultural change.

  • 15.
    Boström, Jonas
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Hillborg, Helene
    Region Västernorrland.
    Lilja, Johan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Exploring Cultural Dynamics and Tensions when Applying Design Thinking for Improving Healthcare Quality: What is really going on?2018In: Proceedings of the 21th QMOD Conference: Building a Culture for Quality, Innovation and Sustainability / [ed] Su Mi Park-Daahlgard, 2018Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose:

    The purpose of this paper is to contribute knowledge concerning the dynamics and potential cultural tensions that occur when applying user involvement and design thinking for improving quality in a healthcare setting.

    Method:

    The paper is based on a case study following a quality improvement project (QI) in a medium sized Swedish county council in the field of somatic care. The project involved eight healthcare professionals, one designer, four patients and two relatives. A multiple data collection method over a period of 10 months was used. It included individual interviews, e-mail correspondence and observations of workshops that covered the QI project.

    Findings:

    The result shows tensions between QI work and the daily clinical work of the participants. These tensions primarily concern the conflict between fast and slow processes, the problem of moving between different fields of knowledge, being a resource for the individual clinic and the system, and the participants' expectations and assumptions about roles and responsibilities in a QI project. Furthermore these findings could be interpreted as signs of a development culture in the healthcare context.

    Practical Implications:

    There are several practical implications. Among others, the insights can inspire how to approach and contextualize the current concepts, roles and methods of design thinking and user involvement so that they can be more easily understood and integrated into the existing culture and way of working in the healthcare sector.

    Originality:

    The study provides a unique insight into a case, trying to uncover what actually is going on, and perhaps why certain things are not happening at all, when user involvement and design practices are applied for improving healthcare quality.

  • 16.
    Botero, Carlos Alberto
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Koptyug, Andrey
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jiménez-Piqué, Emilio
    Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
    Rännar, Lars-Erik
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Microstructure and nanomechanical behavior of modified 316L-based materials fabricated using EBM2018Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Stainless steel 316L based materials modified by the additions of iron-based wear-resistant alloys (Colferoloy@ 103 and 139) used for thermal spray coatings applications were fabricated by EBM. Process parameters were tailored to fabricate compact specimens of 1cm3 in an Arcam A2 (Arcam AB, Mölndal, Sweden) at Mid Sweden University. Microstructural features of the materials obtained were characterized by OM and SEM in polished and etched samples. Nanoindentation tests carried out at different penetration depths were performed on selected areas of the polished specimens to evaluate the materials micro/nano mechanical behavior and to establish correlations with the observed microstructure.

  • 17.
    Botero Vega, Carlos Alberto
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jiménez-Piqué, Emilio
    Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona.
    Roos, Stefan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Skoglund, Per
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Koptioug, Andrei
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Rännar, Lars-Erik
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Bäckström, Mikael
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Nanoindentation: a suitable tool in metal Additive Manufacturing2018Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 18.
    Brochs, Christoffer
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Defektidentifieringvid EBM-tillverkning2018Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Tillverkning av slutprodukter med additiv tillverkning   blir allt vanligare. Slutprodukter har högre krav på detaljens mekaniska   egenskaper än prototyper gör. Forskning har visat att porositeten är av stor   betydelse för en detaljs hållfasthet. Med additiv tillverkning finns goda   möjligheter för direkt processövervakning och kontrollsystem. Inom electron   beam melting finns sådana system men de saknas en validering av resultatet   från dom systemen. I de här arbetet har prover med designade defekter   tillverkats. LayerQam bilder från tillverkningen har analyserats med Defect   Detector. Data från analysen har visualiserats. Resultatet har studerats samt   att det har tagits fram en Defect Detector-analys med högre precision.   Utvalda prover har undersökts i ett tvärsnitt med optisk mikroskopi samt i 3D   med mikrotomografi. Undersökningarna har jämförts med varandra, de tyder på   att Defect Detector har brister i sin bedömning av densiteten. De designade   defekterna har en överskattad storlek samt brister i kompensation av   förvrängningen i synfältet i bilderna.

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  • 19.
    Bystedt, Marie-Therese
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Samverkan mellan aktörer med avseende på livskvalitet och delaktighet för vuxna med funktionsvariationer boende på LSS-gruppbostäder2019Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    A well functioning collaboration between actors in society is expected by the citizens. One example is a caraccident where ambulance, firebrigade and police cooperate. For particularly vulnerable groups in society with many actors, the interaction between the actors is not obvious even if the citizens receive help and support efforts. This study charts the interaction between current actors through questionnaire responses and semi-structured interviews, based on the dimensions of collaboration, participation and the customer in the center. Triangulation of data was performed to identify factors associated with the complexity of coordinating and communicating services to meet the needs of citizens. The result shows that communication and networking with clear assignments and controls can give a consensus on the citizen, his needs and quality of life, which proves to be success factors for a functioning collaboration. But since there are many players, it is complex to get an overall picture and find forms for how communication and collaboration work best.

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  • 20.
    Bäckström, Ingela
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Ingelsson, Pernilla
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Snyder, Kristen
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Hedlund, Christer
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Lilja, Johan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Capturing value-based leadership in practice: Insights from developing and applying an AI-interview guide2018In: International Journal of Quality and Service Sciences, ISSN 1756-669X, E-ISSN 1756-6703, Vol. 10, no 4, p. 422-430Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss the results from the appreciative inquiry (AI)-inspired interviews to explore the underlying values held by top managers and to identify soft aspects ofleadership.Design/methodology/approach – Top managers were interviewed as a part of a research project withthe aim to support the development of value-based leadership that integrates company values, organizationalculture, customer needs and sustainable development. A structured interview guide, inspired by AI, wasdeveloped and used to pinpoint their motivation and vision of a good organization to understand the valuesthat the managers had and to identify soft aspects of leadership. The interviews were analyzed in workshopswith the whole research teamand structured and visualized through affinity diagrams.Findings – The results showed the underlying values held by top managers and identified soft aspects ofleadership.Practical implications – The presented interview guide can be used to identify the top managers’underlying values, and the presented results from the interviews can be used to inspire other managers andleaders to develop their leadership in their striving of good leadership and effective organizations.Originality/value – The paper explains how to apply an AI-inspired interview guide in finding out valuebasedleadership and soft aspects of leadership for enhancing organizational culture.

  • 21.
    Carnerud, Daniel
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    25 years of quality management research – Outlines and Trends2018In: International Journal of Quality and Reliability Management, ISSN 0265-671X, Vol. 35, no 1, p. 208-231Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore and describe how research on quality management (QM) has evolved historically. The study includes the complete digital archive of three academic journals in the field of QM. Thereby, a unique depiction of how the general outlines of the field as well as trends in research topics have evolved through the years is presented. Design/methodology/approach: The study applies cluster and probabilistic topic modeling to unstructured data from The International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, The TQM Journal and Total Quality Management & Business Excellence. In addition, trend analysis using support vector machine is performed. Findings: The study identifies six central, perpetual themes of QM research: control, costs, reliability and failure; service quality; TQM – implementation and performance; ISO – certification, standards and systems; Innovation, practices and learning and customers – research and product design. Additionally, historical surges and shifts in research focus are recognized in the study. From these trends, a decrease in interest in TQM and control of quality, costs and processes in favor of service quality, customer satisfaction, Six Sigma, Lean and innovation can be noted during the past decade. The results validate previous findings. Originality/value: Of the identified central themes, innovation, practices and learning appears not to have been documented as a fundamental part of QM research in previous studies. Thus, this theme can be regarded as a new perspective on QM research and thereby on QM.

  • 22.
    Carnerud, Daniel
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Bäckström, Ingela
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Four Decades of Research on Quality: Summarizing, Trendspotting and Looking Ahead2018Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 23.
    Carnerud, Daniel
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jaca, Carmen
    Universidad de Navarra, TECNUN, San Sebastian, Spain.
    Bäckström, Ingela
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Kaizen and continuous improvement – trends and patterns over 30 years2018In: The TQM Journal, ISSN 1754-2731, E-ISSN 1754-274X, Vol. 30, no 4, p. 371-390Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to depict how Kaizen and continuous improvement (CI) are represented in scientific journals focusing on quality management (QM) from the 1980s until 2017. Additionally, the study aims to examine how Kaizen is studied and described and how the relationship between Kaizen and CI is portrayed. Design/methodology/approach: The study applies a mixed methods approach to search for tendencies and outlines concerning Kaizen and CI in four scientific journals focusing on QM and two focusing on OM. The data set contains entries from 1980 until 2017, which makes it possible to depict how Kaizen has evolved over more than 30 years. Findings: The findings show that Kaizen and CI attained special interest in the mid-1990s, after which interest appears to have decreased. However, the findings imply that a regenerated interest for the areas spiked post 2010. In addition, the results indicate that Kaizen is on the one hand accepted by one part of the management community but on the other hand completely ignored by the rest. Finally, the data illuminate a need to strengthen and clarify Kaizen’s theoretical basis and its relationship to CI. Practical implications: If an aspiration exists to increase the success rate of Kaizen implementation, the results from the study highlight the need to address and clarify epistemological, terminological and theoretical issues. Originality/value: Prior data mining studies pinpointing how Kaizen and CI have evolved over the last 30 years appear not to exist. 

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  • 24.
    Cawthorn, Annika
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Sörensson, Anna
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Business, Economics and Law.
    Dalborg, Cecilia
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Business, Economics and Law.
    Grande, Jorunn
    Nord Universitet.
    GRENI – Forskningsprojekt kring gröna näringar2018Report (Other (popular science, discussion, etc.))
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  • 25.
    Danestad, Peter
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Markovic, Dragana
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Framgångsfaktorer och hinder vid införande av e-tjänster i kommunal verksamhet: Hur förbättrar man e-tjänster genom offensiv kvalitetsutveckling med kunden i centrum?2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Digitization is currently considered to be the most important factor of change affecting all parts of society, including the public sector. E-government is used to create more open public administration that supports innovation and participation, facilitates people's daily lives, providing higher quality and efficiency in the activities. In addition, e-government is expected to lower cost and maximize benefits for both citizens and companies as well as society at large.

    The goal of the Government has since 2012 been to make Sweden the leading country in the world in terms of utilizing the potential of digitization. Sweden has also been at the forefront in comparison with other countries in terms of internet use and citizens' use of e-government services. International comparisons show, for example, that Sweden is in sixth place, see the UN's latest compilation of e-government development in the world (UN-E Government survey 2016). However, in the same year, the Swedish National Audit Office (NAO) in its report (RIR 2016: 14) also found that public actors do not pursue this work according to Government objectives and that more can be done to develop e-government. According to the NAO, work on e-government has been short-term, overly delegated and characterized by a lack of overall responsibility and not managed in a cost-effective way.

    This case study sets out to investigate these conditions more closely, with a view to provide new knowledge about what is needed for a more successful introduction of e-services. A medium-sized municipality that introduced an e-service for the application for building permission, called "MittBygge", in 2015 was chosen as case study.

    Like previous research, this study identifies a number of crucial success factors that need to be taken into account when planning, introducing and following up the benefits of e-services. These success factors are: internal and external customer focus, education, leadership, communication, stakeholder response, the importance of measuring and defining success, sufficient resource allocation, employee involvement and commitment. The study's results also show the obstacles and challenges that may appear along the way towards more efficient and high-quality e-services. These are the absence of effective metrics, time constraints, low priority, insufficient educational efforts, difficulties with finding and understanding information, and the overall experience of e-service accessibility by the residents of the municipality. The results also show that the values behind offensive quality development, i.e.  putting the customer at the heart of the process, basing decisions on facts, working with processes, continuously working on improvements and creating conditions for stakeholder involvement, not only offers a good theoretical base for development and continuous improvement of activities but it is also an essential prerequisite for successful work.

     

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  • 26.
    Douglas, Timothy E. L.
    et al.
    Lancaster University, United Kingdom.
    Hempel, Ute
    Technische Universität Dresden, Germany.
    Żydek, Jagoda
    AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków, Poland.
    Vladescu, Alina
    National Institute for Optoelectronics, Romania; National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia.
    Pietryga, Krzysztof
    AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków, Poland.
    Kaeswurm, Julia A. H.
    University of Stuttgart, Germany.
    Buchweitz, Maria
    University of Stuttgart, Germany.
    Surmenev, Roman A.
    National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia.
    Surmeneva, Maria A.
    National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia.
    Cotrut, Cosmin M.
    National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia; University Politechnica of Bucharest, Romania.
    Koptioug, Andrei
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Pamuła, Elzbieta
    AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków, Poland.
    Pectin coatings on titanium alloy scaffolds produced by additive manufacturing: Promotion of human bone marrow stromal cell proliferation2018In: Materials letters (General ed.), ISSN 0167-577X, E-ISSN 1873-4979, Vol. 227, p. 225-228Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Ti6Al4V is a popular biomaterial for load-bearing implants for bone contact, which can be fabricated by additive manufacturing technologies. Their long-term success depends on their stable anchoring in surrounding bone, which in turn depends on formation of new bone tissue on the implant surface, for which adhesion and proliferation of bone-forming cells is a pre-requisite. Hence, surface coatings which promote cell adhesion and proliferation are desirable. Here, Ti6Al4V discs prepared by additive manufacturing (EBM) were coated with layers of pectins, calcium-binding polysaccharides derived from citrus (C) and apple (A), which also contained alkaline phosphatase (ALP), the enzyme responsible for mineralization of bone tissue. Adhesion and proliferation of human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSC) were assessed. Proliferation after 7 days was increased by A-ALP coatings and, in particular, by C-ALP coatings. Cell morphology was similar on coated and uncoated samples. In conclusion, ALP-loaded pectin coatings promote hBMSC adhesion and proliferation. 

  • 27.
    Eckervig, Cecilia
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Madsen, Tove
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Att ta värderingar från ord till beteenden: Kan Appreciative Inquiry användas för att levandegöra värderingar i en organisation och dess kultur?2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Through tradition there has been a focus on "hard values" within total quality management, for an example statistical process measurements and problem-solving techniques. Research identifies the failure to create a supportive culture for improvements as one of the main reasons why organizations fail in their quality management initiatives. Despite the knowledge that culture is a mayor key to success, there is a gap of knowledge to how, and even if, it is possible to create a supportive quality culture. What defines culture is to a large extent the values it is based up on, and that the coworkers within an organization take ownership of these values. The purpose of this research is to contribute with knowledge towards how Appreciative Inquiry (AI) can be used within organizational work with values, culture, and to identify possible effects, if any, of the method.

    An explanatory case study at an organization in the south of Sweden was conducted through two dialogue-based workshops, an online survey, and a document study.

    The result shows that AI creates a structured dialogue about values and value-related behaviors and succeeds in bringing organizational values to life. This is shown though both the perceived and demonstrated changes within coworkers, towards being in agreement and understanding the values within an organization.

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  • 28.
    Eidolf, Jenny
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Psykologisk trygghet som möjliggörare för att vara i ständig förnyelse: Hur byggs kapacitet i en organisation för att möta kraven i en komplex, oförutsägbar och snabbföränderlig omvärld?2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    VUCA is the term used to describe the complex, uncertain and rapid changing world we live in today. Often it is described as a new paradigm with needs for new management models to continue to be successful. In order to be able to meet the new requirements, organizations need to develop ability to smoothly adapt to change, constantly work with improvement and development to increase their power to innovate. Psychological safety is a phenomenon that got more attention in business and research in recent years, due to its high correlation to the ability of individuals and teams to face change and to be high performance units. Psychological safety is a shared belief held by members of a team that the team is safe for interpersonal risk taking. The purpose of this thesis was to contribute with knowledge about how companies work to build capacity in organizations to meet the requirements of VUCA, as well as understanding how psychological safety can be an enabler in this work. A qualitative interview study was conducted with six interviews at two larger organizations. The result of the study highlights six important focus areas for being in continuous renewal and successfully meeting the new requirements. These six focus areas are described as follows: Storytelling - “why” as an enabler for motivation and meaning, Ability to learn - curiosity as an enabler for innovation, Leadership behaviours - to be a role model as an enabler for behaviour change, People centric approach - self-awareness as an enabler for self-leadership, Ownership - autonomy as an enabler for responsibility and empowerment and “Way of working” - trust the process as an enabler for structure and endurance. The study further shows that there is a strong link between psychological safety and the six focus areas. Psychological safety is an enabler to build capacity in these areas. The focus areas contribute in return to increase psychological safety and at the same time support the ability to meet the complex, uncertain and rapidly changing world.

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  • 29.
    Enakeyarhe, Omafume Matthew
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Leadership perspectives for Continuous Improvement: A Case study on leaders’ consistency for organizational transformation2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The changes experienced in society presents challenges that demands for reciprocal approach on continuous improvement within organizations. This entails fashioning work ways and standards that can adapt to these changes; a task that leaders or prospective leaders should be conversant with. Thus, this study investigates and present results that could assist leaders in understanding the importance of their engagement in continuous improvement as well as the relationship with partners.

    Investigation through means of interview, survey, observation and documents analysis were conducted at LBS Creative Senior High School (LBS Kreativa Gymnasiet). The research presented description of how the school through its various leaders work consistently with improving the school and its students.

    The result showed that the school, through relational leadership perspective operates with transparency, openness and the engagement of teaching and non-teaching staffs, which have enabled the transformation of work-culture to one that is consistence with improvement. The result also showed that the transformation has contributed to satisfaction as experienced by teachers, parents/guardians and partners, however partnership with companies was based on an order-deliver relationship and thus was not necessary to be part of the school’s continuous improvement plan.

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  • 30.
    Eriksson, Love
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Flow Motion Technology: Cross country ski plate2017Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Within the framework of this   bachelor theses, a binding plate integrated with Flow Motion Technology   (FMT), has been developed on behalf of the company Marsblade®Ltd.   A binding plate is a plate mounted between the ski and the binding. Due to   the fact that the skating technique in cross country skiing has many   similarities with ice skating and that FMT has been a great success in ice   hockey contexts, the idea of a binding plate that utilizes the FMT technology   was raised. The developed plate can now be used to test and verify the   technology mounted on cross-country roller skis.

    The product development work   began with an overall pre-study to investigate how the end product could be   designed and finally received by its users. The idea was that the binding   plate will be of particular benefit to world-class cross country skiers. With   the help of creative and systematic methods, development has been pushed   forward. Through a methodological reduction process a final concept emerged   and has been dimensioned and manufactured.

    The binding plate produced is   comprised of seven sub-components. Three of these parts are unique. The   concept is based on a split chassis (one lower, and one upper part),   centrally assembled with a spring. The lower part has an arched surface at the   top that allows the top chassis to rock like an upside-down rocking chair.   The lower part, which is interchangeable, has been made in seven different   configurations, to enable the evaluation of two different radii and three   different swing designs in future tests.

    In the world of ice hockey, FMT's   rocking technique is described as being equally important as the introduction   of the composite stick and resembles the carving ski's breakthrough in alpine   skiing. However, product development in cross country skiing, has seen no   major breakthroughs for a very long time.

    The hope is that by integrating   the construction of FMT into the ski and though optimizing the weight of the   bindings, the product will be welcomed by ski associations and skiers   globally.

    The potential benefits of FMT   are: greater impulse in the leg kick-off, greater freedom of movement in the   ankle (allowing the user to wear a stiffer shoe), and an overall better ride   feeling. Combined this will increase the user’s cross country skiing performance.   With the final test product as a basis, these claims should be experimentally   investigated and proven.

  • 31.
    Eriksson, Maria
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Bäckström, Ingela
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Ingelsson, Pernilla
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Åslund, Anna
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering. Strömsunds Kommun.
    Measuring customer value in commercial experiences2018In: Total Quality Management and Business Excellence, ISSN 1478-3363, E-ISSN 1478-3371, Vol. 29, no 5-6, p. 618-632Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Customer value is of importance to all businesses in the search for competitive advantage. To learn about what customers truly appreciate, measuring can be a vital source of information towards an understanding of what creates customer value. Commercial experiences are claimed to be an offering of their own, separate from goods and services. The existing tools and models for measuring customer value do not focus on the elements pointed out as vital for commercial experiences. A case study was performed on customers participating in a high-impact commercial experience to understand what is valuable to the customer. The results were used todevelop an approach to measuring customer value specifically for commercial experiences. In the study, questionnaires were designed to find out about custom erexpectations before the experience compared with customer satisfaction after theexperience in search for important factors of customer value. The study achieved a high score indicating a high level of received customer value, reinforcing the selected measurement variables. The approach proposes the development of a measuring tool consisting of 22 elements along with the WOW-impact specificallyadapted for measuring customer value in commercial experiences. This is one way of expressing the created experiential quality.

  • 32.
    Eriksson, Rasmus
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Discars flygegenskaper: Baserat på aerodynamiska mätningar2018Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This project   examines the possibilities of rating discs intended for use in discgolf after   a scale based on scientific tests. Tests are conducted in the wind tunnel at   Sportstech Research Centre at Mid Sweden University in Östersund in   collaboration with Kastaplast AB. Successful tests could lead to standardized   and more accurate ratings of disc that would facilitate for both customers   and manufacturers. Intentions are to foremost rate a discs speed rating but   will also examine the possibilities of seeing connections regarding glide and   turn. Tests may also lead to future studies regarding the understanding of   disc flight.

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  • 33.
    Evander, Manne
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Studie hur Woolpowers sovsäckslakan    påverkar isoleringen och   temperaturgraderingen av olika sovsäckar och hur de förhåller sig till en   konkurrent2019Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    With the   help from different standards and articles, tests have been run on a sleeping   bag liner from the company Woolpower, on three different sleeping bags with   different grading for the temperature. Using a thermal manikin, a value for   the total insulation (heat resistance) was defined, and that value was   translated into different scales for temperature, including comfort-,   transition- and extreme temperature limits. All the sleeping bags show a   clear improvement of the insulation value when using the Woolpower liner,   which means that the grading for the temperature limits also changes.

    A liner   from a competitor company was also evaluated, not only to compare how well   Woolpower´s liner holds up on the market and how well the temperature that   the competing liner put on their product holds up to the value from this   test, but also to open up for a discussion how the grading of the products   used today can be changed to better fit its purpose. In this comparison   between Woolpower and the other company’s liner, Woolpower have a higher   insulation value in all the sleeping bags.

    These   questions the reliability of the marking on the liners that are used today,   since the results demonstrated in this study are far from what the product   claims. If Woolpowers liner was tested with the same method, would the result   be any different? It opens the possibility to introduce a separate standard   to determine the heat insulation potentials of the liner so that all the   producers follow the same guidelines.

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  • 34.
    Fahlén, Teo
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Analys av mätutrustning: En jämförande studie kring mätsäkerheten hos MEMS-baserade sensorer i en mobiltelefon jämfört med LORD G-Link-2002020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This thesis work has been conducted in conjunction with DEKRA Industrial AB where the mission has been to investigate the accuracy of MEMS-based sensors in a mobile telephone. After analysis of the results from the measurements a decision is made to develop a rig for the mobile telephone to simplify mounting and usage. The objective of the study is that DEKRA should be able to use this work as a basis for future studies and for DEKRA to be able to improve their services and to improve simplicity for the employees.

    The goals with this study were to find out how well the accelerometer in a mobile phone measures accelerations compared to a LORD G-Link 200 accelerometer in three attractions at Gröna Lund amusement park, how well the gyroscope in a mobile phone measure angular velocity compared to a theoretical value of an attraction and to develop a rig for safe mounting of a mobile phone.

    An initial study was conducted to gain knowledge about how the three attractions work and to collect data for each of them, how accelerometers and gyroscopes work and what MEMS is. In the initial study, there is also information about previous studies that have been conducted with relevance to this study, specifics for different mobile phones and for LORD.

    The mobile phone and LORD were both mounted by double-sided tape and tested in different positions. In the development of the rig a specification of demands and requests was conducted, as well as a brainstorming and usage of Pugh’s eliminations matrix to determine which concept to continue to work on.

    The result of the conducted measurements show that the mobile phone can be used to give an initial indication of the accelerations and forces that act on a unit. The percentage differences are at most, in one test, 19,58 % and the actual value is at most 0,74 m/s2. The result of the product development process is that one concept has been chosen for further development.

     

  • 35.
    Franzén Ähdel, Carina
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Bulukin Wilén, Frida
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Alla vill varandras väl: Hur ledarskap genom medarbetarskap i en kvalitetskultur skaparpatientnöjdhet vid svenska sjukhus2019Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Committed leadership is the foundation for creating a good quality culture andto succeed, the participation of employees is required. Researchers argue thatsupport for the current leaders in healthcare has until now been ratherundeveloped. The purpose of this study was to understand how the qualityculture in Swedish healthcare can be linked to the leaders' ability to promotegood co-workership. This study was based on an explanatory sequentialmixed method with two quantitative measurements that ultimately resulted in aqualitative interview. A measurement of the quality culture at Swedishhospitals was taken based on a previously developed instrument formeasuring quality culture . The measuring instrument comprises 13behavioral pairs that promote or hinder a quality culture. This measure showsthat there is generally a good quality culture at Swedish hospitals at present.Through this measurement, a regression analysis was done which links to thehospital's results in the National Patient Survey. A statistically significantbehavior was observed, and according to this measurement, is likely to createmore satisfied patients as more professions feel that this behavior occurs intheir organization. The behaviour in question can be described as: when wehave a problem, we find out the root cause before we decide on a solution.This behavior was brought into two successful hospitals in order to understandmore deeply how they work with the co-workership in this particular behavior.Based on the workshop with these two hospitals, we conclude that leadersneed to have experienced the quality culture and the co-workership they areassumed to carry in order to promote an employee culture that is linked to thequality culture. In pursuit of success, a strong quality culture is desirable, butbased on the workshops, the authors see no possible quick solution to reachit. The result shows that today's leaders in healthcare need support in the formof a mentor or time for reflection on leadership on their own or in groups inorder to develop. In constructive approach, it is with improvement knowledgethat everyone's involvement in the work of continuous improvement isconducted. This requires reflection, honesty, courage, openness and trustfrom everyone involved and intentions rooted in the wellness and prosperity ofall.

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  • 36.
    Fredriksson, Anna
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Svensson, Malin
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Win-win-win: Framgångsfaktorer för att skapa värde i fastighetsmäklarbranschen2021Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Real estate agency as a business field is under development formeeting increasing demands from potential buyers, sellers andsociety overall, creating a need for knowledge of success factorsand process visualisation to improve future agency opportunities.The purpose of the study has been to cover a knowledge gap of awin-win-win situation for long lasting customer relationships,where the agent can find winning aspects illuminating co-creationof value in use together with potential clients. The methodologicaldesign was built on qualitative data triangulation from threeperspectives with interview answers from 3 buyers, 3 sellers and 7real estate agents with additional answers from the addition of theSwedish estate agents inspectorate. A scientific approach wasadopted focusing on the quality management and businessdevelopment field. Systematic analyses of the interviews have beenpresented in a process map from the real estate agents’ business view. The main themes were summarized from new insights intosuccess factors. Results showed the importance of illuminatingvalue creation and to give a little extra. The conclusions turned outin value creation success themes consisting of emotionalintelligence, flexibility, customer knowledge. longterm customerrelationships, trust and exceeding expectations. Left for futureresearch from a quality management perspective is to keeppursuing this avenue to meet upcoming expectations on the realestate agent, in this business field undergoing constant change.

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  • 37.
    Fredriksson, Stina
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Konceptutveckling av fästsystem: För sammankoppling mellan inner- och yttertält på Norrønas nylanserade kupoltält2020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The outdoor culture is something that many Scandinavians hold close to their hearts. Gettingout into nature and exploring local as well as international environment is a form of sustainabletravel. With a tent, these opportunities are broadened and longer trips with overnight stays aregiven better conditions.In a tent there are several components, two main tent cloths, one on the inside and one as abarrier against the outside and the surroundings. This project takes place exactly between theinner tent and the outer tent and concerns the connection between them. The project aims todevelop a new fastening system for inner and outer tents at the outdoor company Norrøna'snewly launched dome tent for smooth and easy handling. Norrøna is a Norwegian companythat develops, produces and sells clothes and equipment for outdoor life and currently runninga new development and launch of a dome tent. The tent itself will meet the company'srequirements for quality, function and design.This project is a bachelor thesis for the mechanical engineering program at Mid SwedenUniversity in Östersund. This report begins with the work done through the productdevelopment process, its in-depth phases, methods and results. The process was divided intofive phases: feasibility study, product specification, concept generation, evaluation andselection of concepts, detail design and prototype.The result of the project became a well-developed concept that solves the main problem oflinking inner and outer tents and fulfills the criteria’s that the product had. The concept is asystem with an elastic strap with cuts in its longitudinal direction. The strap is sewn into theseams of the inner tent and has a hook attached to the end. The hook goes through a loop oftextile sewn into an extension of the outer pole canal and is inserted in one of the cuts to lockthe system. The solution was chosen with care and discussion with Norrøna and presenters inthe form of digital solid models as well as prototype.The project and its results are handed over to Norrøna with good circumstances to develop,produce and apply to Norrøna's newly launched dome tent and contributes to development ofthe outdoor culture.

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  • 38.
    Försth, Dorota
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Man behöver inte vara proffs: En studie av viktiga framgångsfaktorer i förbättringsarbete inom svensk sjukvård2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Interest in improvement work increases with customers' stricter requirements for quality and demand for individualized services. However, there is also a general perception that 70 percent of the improvement work fails, which may indicate that an improvement work is demanding and difficult to achieve. This study wants to highlight positive examples where activities in the health care system have succeeded in implementing improvement work and at the same time have gained a positive compliance with a new way of working.

    The purpose of the study is to map and understand factors that affect the positive compliance of a new way of working. The questions on which the study were based on were:

     

    • What are the differences and similarities between large and small improvement works?

    • What factors play a role in improving a new way of working?

     

    In order to be able to answer the study's questions, a qualitative research method was chosen. The interviews were conducted using a dialogue method, Appreciative Inquiry. In total, the respondents have reported on nine improvement works.

     

    What has emerged is that very limited knowledge in improvement work is sufficient to carry out successful improvement work that also remained lasting over time. Furthermore, the choice of improvement work is based on the needs of the business and not on strategic choices.

     

    What the improvement work has in common is that they have used a structured and systematic approach (PDSA improvement cycle) with interprofessional working groups and goal management during the change phase. All respondents associate change work with positive emotions and emphasize the importance of profits for a successful outcome of improvement work.

    The formal leadership is very clear and takes shape in a structured and systematic way in the major improvement work throughout the change process. On the other hand, within minor improvements, leadership is informal and based on individuals' motivation, great commitment and knowledge. Commitment, participation and a sense of responsibility characterize all improvements. 

    In major improvement work, social capital is based on the quality of leadership, trust-building structures and systems, while in the smaller improvements it is based on individuals' abilities and knowledge.

     

    All respondents highlight goal management and gains in improvement work as success factors. In addition, it was considered within major improvements that a working group with a mandate to change and committed and present leaders are success factors, while within minor improvements it was cooperation and feedback that were success factors.

    It has been shown that motivation, improvement work based on needs, benefits, social capital, clear leadership and structures as well as systematics are factors that are necessary to achieve sustainable improvement work with positive compliance with a new way of working.mmary in English here

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  • 39.
    Gard, Alexandra
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Linde, Sandra
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Livstillfredsställelse- en form av kundtillfredsställelse2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study is to apply the Kano model of attractive quality and customer satisfaction in quality of life and thus also contribute to increase knowledge of quality of life as an area. By identifying factors about quality of life in three (3) organizations in the labor movement. This is a qualitative document study with an inductive approach and content analysis as analytical method. The result is eight (8) categories and eight (8) subcategories that are classified based on attractive, one-dimensional and must-be needs. This is done using theories of quality of life, primarily objective quality of life and subjective well-being. The study further shows that there are similarities between research on quality of life and customer satisfaction as well as similar challenges in measuring a subjective experience and they should be able to learn from each other

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  • 40.
    Granbom, Olle
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Drönare som verktyg för en lavintekniker: Möjligheter och begränsningar för en   lavinprognosdrönare2019Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Naturvårdsverket   erbjuder sedan 2015 lavinprognoser för den svenska fjällkedjan. Genom ett   förebyggande säkerhetsarbete är det naturvårds- verkets mål att minska   tillbud och olyckor i fjällen samt öka kunskapen om laviner hos människor som   vistas i lavinterräng. Prognoserna omfat- tar sex områden i Sverige och   publiceras dagligen under vintersäsongen för de olika områdena. För att   utveckla och förbättra lavinprognoserna samt materialet som publiceras i   naturvårdsverkets sociala kanaler kan eventuellt drönare användas.   Användandet av drönare kan möjliggöra dokumentation av lavinaktivitet eller   frånvaro av lavinaktivitet på svår- tillgängliga platser, samt att   dokumentation från ett större område än vad som dokumenteras idag kan samlas   in, då en drönare kan röra sig över stora områden på kort tid.   Prognosområdena utsätts under perioder för hårt väder och den omgivande   terrängen i områdena är varierande vilket resulterade i att denna studie om   en drönares kapacitet i lavinterräng ge- nomfördes.

    I studien samlades   information in om drönarens kapacitet samt rådande väderförhållanden, och   sammanställdes under testflygningar i Tarfala och Storulvån. Efter det att   testflygningarna genomförts utfördes en stu- die för att se huruvida ett   objekt kan storleksbestämmas från det material som samlats in från drönaren.   Studien visar på goda förbättringsmöjlig- heter för lavinprognostjänsten och   att god dokumentation kan erhållas från drönarens kamera. Vid för hård vind   och i vindbyar på över 10 m/s bör flygningar undvikas. Flygtiden påverkas   inte nämnvärt av köld och med enkla matematiska formler går det att bestämma   ungefärlig storlek på en lavinkägla.

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  • 41.
    Gribbling, Emil
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Biobaserade material i fotbollsbenskydd2020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    In response to the reduction of fossil resources and increasing public demands for environmentally friendly alternatives, development of bio-based plastics have accelerated. New advancements in the form of more materials, innovative manufacturing processes and improved properties mean that the application area now extends from disposable products with the requirements of biodegradability to products for technical and engineering applications. The purpose of this work was to investigate if the company Flaxta could use bio-based polymers when developing shin guards for football players. A classic shin guard is made out of a thermoplastic outer shell together with a softer inner foam material. The aim was to identify bio-based polymers that could replace fossil-based polymers currently used when developing shin guards.

     

    The study of bio-based materials showed that there are several thermoplastics that are similar to the petrochemical plastics and can be directly inserted into existing production systems. These materials have good potential to be used as environmentally friendly alternatives to the current materials in shin guards. Bio-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyamide (PA 11) were identified as the two most suitable thermoplastics to be used in shin guards. A transition to bio-based TPU could reduce the carbon footprint from primary production by 36% compared to fossil based TPU. PA 11 is 100% bio-based and emits significantly less carbon dioxide in the atmosphere during primary production compared to several fossil-based polyamides, therefore does not contribute as much to climate change. The study of bio-based foam materials showed that ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) from the company Braskem had the potential to replace the fossil based EVA and polyurethane (PU) which is currently used as soft energy absorbing materials in shin guards on the market.

     

    The choice of material together with the geometry and design make up the protective properties of shin guards. Therefore, further tests and analyzes of shin guards made out of the bio-based materials identified as potential replacements are required to ensure that the standards for shock absorptions are met.

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  • 42.
    Gustrin, Hanna
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Increasing food system sustainability using solar powered atmospheric water2021Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This study investigates the possibilities of applying water generated from the atmosphere for agricultural processes, particularly hydroponic systems. A solar powered, off-grid greenhouse system is proposed as a theoretical solution to food production, in areas affected by water scarcity. Two experiments are conducted with the purpose of testing atmospheric water quality and how it performs in a hydroponic setting. The plausibility of powering said greenhouse system using solar energy is investigated, considering several available solar technologies. Ultimately, the footprint area required to install enough capacity to power the system is discussed, and the potential site of such a system is modelled and visualized. The experiments concluded that atmospheric water is likely suitable for hydroponic use. The study also found that the footprint area required for the greenhouse system probably can be considered reasonable for certain applications, but more research and advances within solar power technology would be beneficial

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  • 43.
    Gyllensvärd, Sofia
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Värdeskapande inom idrottsevenemang: Hur arbetar arrangörer för att främja ett högt upplevt kundvärde hos sina deltagare?2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    In Sweden we have several major sports events and each of them attracts tens of thousands of participants each year. The organizers of these sporting events have the task of meeting the expectations of each participant (customer) and satisfy their needs. Customer value is a key concept in both Total Quality Management (TQM) and marketing and customer value creation is considered an important success factor for all organizations. Not least in the future when consumers increasingly want to be involved in designing the products they buy. The aim of the study was to achieve increased understanding of customer value creation in sports events by examining how organizers work todayand want to work in the future to promote a high level of customer value for their participants. Data was collected through five interviews with organizers of sports events. Analysis of the data showed that the organizers today use strategies and activities within 12 different themes with the aim of promoting a high level of customer value. A conclusion from the analysis was that organizers today offer their participants the opportunity to co-create customer value by adding the three building blocks dialogue, risk assessment and transparency. For future improvements and continued development in customer value creation three areas were identified: expanded/differentiated dialogue with participants, more collaborations and clear social responsibility and giving participants more mandate to participate in development and participate in the design of the events.

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  • 44.
    Gylling, Alexander
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Utveckling av låsmekanism för sprinten på Albertkoppel: Examensarbete på kandidatnivå gjort på uppdrag av Dellner Couplers våren 20202020Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The Albert coupler is often used as an emergency coupler on light rail vehicles, or LRV’s, most common is the city tram. This means that the couplers have a simple design and contains no moving parts on the coupler head. To lock two couplers together a pin through each of them is used. Since it was discovered that the pins could start to crawl out of their position at high loads, a locking mechanism was developed by Dellner Couplers. This mechanism is mounted on the top of the locking pin and applies a force on the bottom of the coupler head via a disc spring. This mechanism does not only hold the pin in place, but it also reduces vibrations and rattles which in turn reduces wear and extends the pins life. The mechanism is however difficult to use and requires a large amount of force to operate. Because of this a new solution is wanted. The new mechanism should be more ergonomic and easier to use, without compromising the need for a constant force on the pin.

     

    To accomplish this a project, divided into five milestones, was conducted. The goal was to develop a concept which solves the need for a force loaded pin, which is easy and ergonomic to use and has a simple design.

     

    The project resulted in two concepts, which at their core are simplified versions of the present solution. They reduce the number of moving parts. One by half, from two to one, and the other includes no moving parts. They also reduce the total number of components, from 17 to 10 and 8 respectively. Though both concepts have the possibility to reduce the number of components further. By having a better placement of the interaction points the concepts offer an improved usability compared to the present solution. The final concepts solved all of the goals, requirements and functions that were set out at the start of the project.

  • 45.
    Hall, Carina
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Att främja innovation i undervisning och utbildning: En studie om lärstödjande förändringsledning i samband med omställningen till fjärr- och distansundervisning inom gymnasiet våren 20202020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This thesis constitutes an independent and independent study that is intended to complement the Vinnova project Swedish Edtest, which runs 2020-2022. The project aims to design a scientific method for implementing and evaluating digital learning resources and to contribute to the development of suppliers' services and products. This degree project focuses on leadership, working methods and organizational conditions linked to successful innovation work. The leaders and persons with leading and/or coordinating assignments interviewed in the study work within one of the municipal or independent principals who are also partners in the project.The study shows that the school as an organization has proven to be far more agile and innovative than expected. Participating school leaders have all testified that the starting distance for reteaching has been short and beyond expectations, which suggests that there is a much greater innovation capacity among schools and principals than was previously known when leading and organizing the work. This may be one reason why methods and structures have not been designed to harden and further develop the innovation that is taking place. As far as the innovation that is taking place now is concerned, the added value does not seem to lie primarily in working digital, but that the digital way of working develops teaching and the way in which knowledge objectives are managed and achieved.All interviewees report that the transition to long-distance and distance learning has increased the innovation capacity of the activities in which the work is managed or coordinated. To what extent and in what way varies. The majority of those interviewed state that they already see solutions or methods that are judged to support learners' learning even when returning to regular teaching and activities. Examples given are increased digital knowledge and maturity among the staff, increased collegial cooperation and exchange of experience, re-design of teaching with a greater focus on what is really important for students to achieve the goals of their education, and greater flexibility of when and remote education.The interviewed leaders promote innovation and learning through transformative and relationship-oriented leadership with strong involvement in the core process of the school and with a focus on learning over technology in terms of innovation. They also describe in a large majority that this spring's transition to remote and distance education has created a marked development-oriented leadership among themselves as well as in their staff groups. Personal conditions required are courage and trust, long-term approach and perseverance, commitment and participation. Organisational conditions required are local free space and mandates as well as resources and time. Other recurring concepts are management's focus, targeted development areas and conditions to prioritize and actively participate.The majority of those interviewed state that innovation support work is done voluntarily, partly by creating conditions for interested and forward-leaning teachers and partly mandatory through organized meetings, divided according to different focus. The organisation around evaluating impact and added value is, according to a significant majority of the interviewees, on the other hand, underdeveloped or missing completely.

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  • 46.
    Hansen, David
    et al.
    Aalborg Universitet .
    Lilja, Johan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Jørgensen, Rasmus
    Technical University of Denmark.
    How Positive Practices at Work can Accelerate Transformation to a Lean Improvement Culture and Improve Organizational Effectiveness2018In: BOOK OF ABSTRACTS: 9th European Conference on Positive Psychology, 2018Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Organizations striving for operational excellence face new challenges in a world increasingly characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity [1]. For decades, one of the answers to achieving operational excellence has been to pursue a continuous improvement culture such as through the Lean philosophy in order to engage and empower employees to continuously optimize resource utilization and thereby increase competitiveness [2]. However, many organizations only get short-term gains out of their efforts and fail with an actual Lean transformation and frequently, cultural change is mentioned as the hardest to manage [3]. At all organizational levels, people get under pressure that frequently leads to behavior un-favoring long-term excellence and certainly inhibiting continuous improvement culture. Psychological mechanisms induced by fear and high tempo are possible explanations.

    This paper aims for investigating whether positive practices at work [4] can accelerate transformation to a Lean improvement culture and contribute to improved organizational effectiveness.

    The study was carried out as an exploratory case study. The selected organization was identified due to its history with experimenting with positive practices and explicit focus on and strategic need for developing a Lean improvement culture. During the study, the researchers had extensive access to investigate daily operational improvement practices at the manufacturing plant. First, all improvement practices were mapped and the positive practices identified. Second, the improvement practices were analysed to assess their impact on developing Lean improvement culture together with a discussion of the difference between traditional improvement practices and the identified positive practices. Third, the positive practices with the highest assessed impact were further analysed in depth to investigate to what degree they also contributed to organizational effectiveness.

     

    References

    1. Bennett, N. & Lemoine, G. J. (2014). What VUCA really means for you. Harvard Business Review, 92(1), 27.

    2. Arlbjørn, J. S. & Freytag, P. V. (2013). Evidence of lean: a review of international peer-reviewed journal articles. International Journal of Operations and Production Management, 25(2), 174-205.

    3. Liker, J. K. (2004). The Toyota Way. New York: McGraw-Hill.

    4. Cameron, K., Mora, C., Leutscher, T. & Calarco, M. (2011). Effects of Positive Practices on Organizational Effectiveness. Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, 47(3), 266-308.

  • 47.
    Hansson, Aron
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Ydén, Jonatan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    LED there be light: Konceptutveckling av ett fäste för LED-lampor på hjälmar2021Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    I takt med nya tekniska framsteg tar sig teknik närmare den vardag vi lever i. LED-dioden och små kompakta kameror som kan monteras på hjälmar är exempel på sådana framsteg. Att teknik ska implementeras och modifiera säkerhetsutrustning som hjälm anses dock inte av alla som enkom positivt. Inom motorsportstävlingar i Sverige är det sedan 2021 förbjudet att montera kameror på hjälm vilket medför att inte heller lampor är tillåtna, undantaget endurosporten. Denna artikel beskriver det projekt som har till syfte att utveckla ett nytt fäste för lampor inför att denna regeländring får effekt i höst. Dess mål är att presentera ett underlag med förutsättningarna för ett nytt fäste på marknaden samt ett slutgiltigt koncept med tillhörande konstruktionsunderlag. Projektet genomförs tillsammans med LEDX of Sweden.

    Den valda produktutvecklingsmodellen är hämtad från Johannesson m.fl. och startar vid förstudie för att avslutas med en detaljkonstruktion med tillhörande prototypbygge och kostnadsanalys. Marknadsintroduktion och prototypprövning är avgränsade från detta projekt.

    Förutsättningarna för hjälmfästen som är allmänna och inte specifika för en viss typ av hjälm begränsas starkt av att hjälmar har väldigt olika de- sign. Slutkonceptet som presenteras är en vidareutveckling av den befintliga hjälmbågen för enduro som idag säljs av företaget. Konceptet är tänkt att produceras i en slagseghetsförstärkt plast vilket resulterar i en produkt som ligger bättre formad mot hjälmen och väger hälften jämfört med dagens produkt. Även de integrerade infästningarna är en stor förbättring mot dagens produkt som kräver monteringsarbete för företaget.

    Ekonomiskt så har slutkonceptet chans att lyckas då tillverkningskostnaden är låg för produkten även om det kräver en stor engångsinvestering inför produktion. Projektet anses lyckats då alla frågeställningar och mål är besvarade. Det är det framför allt då det utöver slutkonceptet finns underlag för att gå vidare till detaljkonstruktion med flera av de övriga koncepten.

  • 48.
    Helsing-Wålstedt, Elin
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Värderingsbaserat ledarskap i praktiken: Om effekter av, och förutsättningar för, organisatoriskavärderingar som ledningsverktyg2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Values-based management in practiceOn effects of, and prerequisites for, organizational values as a management toolThis master thesis is based on a qualitative case study within the Master Degree in QualityManagement and Leadership at Mid Sweden University in Östersund. The purpose of thethesis was to contribute with knowledge and understanding about values-basedmanagement in practice, by studying possible effects of, and prerequisites for,organizational values as a management tool. The study was conducted at Komatsu Forestin Umeå through interviews with two first line managers, selected through strategy andconvenience. To complete the picture and enable data triangulation, a small culture studywas conducted, where one of the organization’s operations developers (OD) wasinterviewed and the environment within the plant was observed.The results from the interview with the OD and the observation of the environment werecompiled and analyzed according to the methods of culture analysis. A number of themeswere identified, that demonstrated prerequisites for, and practical signs of, implementationof the values and principles within the organizations own “way”, the Komatsu Way. Theinterviews with the first line managers were compiled and analyzed using an adaptedversion of a phenomenographic analyze method.Through the theoretical framework and the culture- and phenomenographic analysis thestudy pointed towards the findings that a holistic perspective, endurance and leadershipcommitment are important prerequisites when implementing a values-based way of leadingand working in an organization. Effects of using organizational values as a managementtool identified in the study was for example the values’ ability to work as guiding principlestowards the vision of the organization. Personal characteristics, structural conditions,knowledge and understanding about the values, a strong quality management culture andleadership commitment are examples of identified prerequisites for values-basedmanagement and organizational values as a management tool. The result of the study alsoindicated that using organizational values as a management tool can be challenging to afirst line manager with the daily operative work to consider. This seemed to be the caseeven though the organization has high ambitions as well as favorable prerequisites forimplementing a sustainable values-based leadership.

  • 49.
    Hosseini, Farhad
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Resan mot en produktion i världsklass: En studie av den faktiska vägen och hur en organisation kan sättas i rörelse mot ”World Class Manufacturing” (WCM)”2018Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The need for industrial improvement is greater than ever, especially regarding the increasing demands of the customers as well as the strong development of technology combined with a major globalization in trade, that leads to increasing numbers of competitors. By successfully working with continuous improvements, businesses can achieve increased competitiveness. In order to succeed, this requires an approach that focuses on participation and the use of appropriate methods that enable this kind of improvement.The purpose of this work is to provide knowledge about how organizations lead and orientate themselves in order to develop and achieve the ability to continuously improve their production. Through qualitative interviews, the writer has taken part of the experiences of key personnel who lead the implementation of the improvement program World Class Manufacturing (WCM) in Saint-Gobain, Sweden, ISOVER AB. The writer has used coding to summarize the outcome of qualitative interviews in different categories in order to express their meaning more clearly.The results of the work focus primarily on organizing the improvement program, leadership of the improvement program, positive cultural change in WCM-implementation and important factors for achieving set goals. The present study has shown that implementation of WCM can be time consuming and have a slow start-up phase. In order to succeed, the management of operations must ensure the needs in terms of the requisite resources for succeeding in implementing the WCM work, or, if needed, before start of the program, placed the right resources in place. The study shows that through a very well-developed concept that helps the business orientate itself throughout the journey, the implementation of the WCM is facilitated. The present work also shows that the business needs a managerial role that has an overall responsibility for the implementation process and this function should have a very good understanding of the concept that is very clear and consistent with what is demanded. This feature should also follow up the projects until the work has taken shape.

  • 50.
    Häggström, Marie
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Nursing Sciences.
    Bäckström, Ingela
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Ingelsson, Pernilla
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Management and Mechanical Engineering.
    Carina, Edling
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    How can patient transfers be improved by combining QM, Nursing and Health care sciences?2018In: Proceedings of the 21th QMOD Conference: Building a Culture for Quality, Innovation and Sustainability / [ed] Su Mi Park-Daahlgard, 2018Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present the state of the art when it comes to QM and nursing science, focusing on patient transfers from Intensive Care Unit (ICU)  to general wards, using the TQM values:  ‘customer focus’, ‘leadership commitment’, ‘participation of everybody’, ‘continuous improvement’, ‘process focus’ and ‘base decisions on facts’ as an analytical framework.

    Methodology/approach Literature from the research fields of QM and nursing sciences was reviewed and analyzed with the TQM values as a framework.

    Findings – No articles were found concerning QM within the specific area of patient transfer from ICU to general wards but the results are a summary of QM research and nursing science sorted under the TQM values. A result is that interdisciplinary care can improve a culture of safety and it can decrease mortality rates, staff turnover and increase quality of care and patient satisfaction. This means that there is a need for working with the QM culture in the patient transfer from ICU to general wards.

    Practical implications – This review identified a large need for empirical research in the field of health care where CI methods needs to be described, for example what tool or method that was applied and how it was applied and how the implementation were conducted.

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Output format
  • html
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  • asciidoc
  • rtf