Knowledge Management and Ergonomics Implementation in Manufacturing Systems: Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for Critical Success Factors

Knowledge Management and Ergonomics Implementation in Manufacturing Systems: Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for Critical Success Factors

Aide Aracely Maldonado-Macías, Cesar Roberto Alferez-Padron, Jorge Luis García-Alcaraz, Liliana Avelar-Sosa
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-5115-7.ch010
OnDemand:
(Individual Chapters)
Available
$33.75
List Price: $37.50
10% Discount:-$3.75
TOTAL SAVINGS: $3.75

Abstract

This chapter presents a knowledge management and Ergonomics implementation in manufacturing systems, through the development and validation of a critical success factors questionnaire. The instrument developed measures the frequency of inclusion of critical success factors for the implementation of Ergonomics and its benefits, validated in the manufacturing industry. The frequency is based on a five-point Likert scale. So far, no instrument able to measure such factors has been found in the literature. The questionnaire comprises 73 questions presented in four main stages: planning, process startup stage, work improvement cycle and long-term development. In addition, it contains a section of benefits regarding health and safety, operational and quality of life at work. The instrument was validated through a pilot test involving 140 participants from seven companies in the manufacturing sector of Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México, through the use of an intentional selective method.
Chapter Preview
Top

Problem Statement

In the twenty-first century, knowledge management is a key topic for companies as it allows them to grow and increase their profit margins (Harrington & Voehl, 2007). Thus, companies have increasingly recognized the value of knowledge management (Yew Wong, 2005). Furthermore, they have placed knowledge management as an essential element to improve and maintain competitiveness in the market (Yew Wong, 2005). Today, success factors are considered part of knowledge management (Alazmi & Zairi, 2003). According to Bullen & Rockart (1981), Critical Success Factors (CSFs) are defined as those key activities in a process, which are necessary for objectives to be reached. Likewise, Gauthier & Lagacé (2015) emphasize that critical success factors are the key elements that make the difference between success and failure in projects.

Complete Chapter List

Search this Book:
Reset