Challenges of the Future

Management Challenges and Factors Determining Their Successful Solution

2023-09-22T18:21:02+00:00

Purpose and Originality: This research aims to analyse challenges encountered by managers of educational institutions in their work, the solutions to overcome challenges and factors determining success. The article presents the results of the research conducted in Lithuania in 2022, encompassing structured interviews with 8 heads of educational institutions in Šiauliai region. The research has revealed that the challenges faced by the heads of Lithuanian educational institutions are determined by the specificity of the country’s education system, the previous management of the educational institution, and the attitude of the very heads of educational institutions.

Method: The research was conducted employing a generic qualitative descriptive exploratory approach (Kahlke, 2014; Merriam, Tisdel, 2016). The research strategy is not based on a specific qualitative methodology; it is simply sought to discover and understand the phenomenon from the perspective of the subjects participating in this research. The respondents were given two questions: 1) What was the biggest management challenge that you managed to solve successfully? 2) How were you solving this challenge?

Results: Based on the research data, management challenges, their solutions and success factors were revealed. The research demonstrated that the solutions for overcoming challenges faced by managers included the manifestation of general and managerial competencies in the managers’ activities, while the factors determining success were the managers’ personal, professional competencies and value approaches – managers’ distributed leadership competence and organisational culture.

Limitations: The research involved only heads of educational institutions (except gymnasiums) in Šiauliai region; therefore, the research results cannot be applied to the entire population. The research results could have been influenced by the subjective perception of investigated persons, their emotional state, daily institutional situations, workload, and other subjective factors.

Monitoring Technological Processes in the Automotive Industry

2023-10-08T18:23:07+00:00

Background and Originality: The purpose of the presented research was to enhance the understanding and management of key performance indicators (Cpk, OEE, and ROI) in the automotive industry. The originality of the study stems from its emphasis on process technological performance and digitalization of measurements, which are crucial in today's industry.

Method: The research was based on a case study, involving data analysis, the utilization of a Cpk measurement system, and event tracking through a logbook. The theoretical framework is based on measuring process technological performance and its connection to financial outcomes.

Results: In the third phase of optimization, significant improvements were recorded in the indicators, including higher Cpk, OEE, and ROI values. These enhanced indicators led to compliance with final product specifications and concurrently increased production operational efficiency. Digitalization of measurements allowed for the rapid detection of process deviations and real-time adjustments in measurements.

Society: Preliminary research results already make a substantial contribution to the automotive industry by emphasizing the crucial role of the business and technological performance measurement system and digitalization in improving operational efficiency. This can support enhanced process management and add value to social responsibility and environmental protection.

Limitations/Further Research: Research limitations are related to the case study approach and temporal and financial constraints. Further research is recommended to delve into correlations between process technological performance indicators and financial outcomes and expand the study to other industries.