One of the most significant cultural manifestations in buyer behavior may be the way in which a product is evaluated as a function of its various attributes. People from different cultures have different experiences and value structures which may cause them to view products differently. This purpose of this study was to examine variation in product evaluation across three consumer ethnic subcultures in Malaysia: Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Mobile phone was chosen as the target product in this study. Exploratory factor (...) analysis, comparison of means, and analysis of variance were employed to analyze the data collected through a questionnaire survey. The results indicate that image, reference group influence, media, and post-sale services best distinguish the three ethnic groups in their evaluation of mobile phone attributes. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed. (shrink)

In general, few people have comprehensively researched the cost of machine ownership. This research will present a new model to calculate the cost of machine ownership that is influenced by several critical factors such as Initial Cost, Maintenance Cost, and Operating Cost. The financial literacy gap in this sector causes many heavy equipment owners to be unaware of their business income potential. The methodology used is mathematical modeling that combines several methods to create a new model of heavy equipment ownership (...) cost analysis. The main result of this research shows that the developed model provides a new perspective in calculating the cost of ownership. The model shows that the machine has the most optimal value if the cost is paid in installments. In addition, the model considers external factors such as changes in primary energy prices and fluctuations in backup power generation costs, thus providing a more accurate picture of costs. The implications of this research are that it makes it easier for machine owners to calculate ownership costs, improve operational efficiency, and support better investment decisions. (shrink)

In a fiercely competitive business landscape, the optimization of supply chain management (SCM) strategies and the integration of robust corporate digital competencies stand as pivotal determinants for sustained success across various industries, including the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. The study investigates the dynamic interplay between SCM strategies, corporate digital competencies, and operational performance. Through a hypothesis testing research design, the examination sought to determine the influence of these variables. The study revealed strong support for the hypothesis that SCM strategies (...) significantly impact corporate digital competencies and, in turn, operational performance. The results indicated a direct positive relationship between SCM strategies and operational performance while corporate digital competencies indirectly influenced operational performance through their mediation between SCM strategies and operational effectiveness. The findings underscored the integral role of corporate digital competencies in enhancing the efficacy of SCM strategies, amplifying operational performance, and driving customer-centric value. These implications stress the imperative for businesses to strategically align their SCM processes with digital competencies to effectively navigate market complexities and ensure long-term competitiveness. (shrink)