69166 research outputs found
Sort by
AI Adoption in Portuguese Financial Sector
No full textDissertation presented as the partial requirement for obtaining a Master's degree in Information Management, specialization in Knowledge Management and Business IntelligenceThe incorporation of AI in the financial sector is revolutionizing traditional approaches,
improving operational efficiency, and revolutionizing risk management. However, it also
presents certain obstacles like data privacy concerns and bias, underscoring the importance
of ethical implementation and human oversight. This research examines the integration of AI
in the financial industry of Portugal, with a specific focus on the viewpoints of employees and
customers. A survey was conducted to gather data, utilizing the UTAUT and TRA frameworks
to explore the factors that influence the adoption and willingness towards AI. A theoretical
framework was proposed and then subsequently validated through empirical analysis using
data collected in Portugal. The data was examined through SEM, providing valuable insights
into the intricate dynamics and implications of AI in the financial sector. The study included
240 participants, and a demographic analysis revealed a diverse sample in terms of age,
gender, and education. Through statistical analyses, significant relationships between various
factors and AI behavior and usage were uncovered. Furthermore, a multi-group analysis
indicated a shared mindset among both financial professionals and customers, highlighting
consistent perceptions and interactions with AI
Enhancing Aviation Safety and Pilot Performance: A Comprehensive Study on Situational Awareness and Technological Integration
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor in Information ManagementThe aviation industry stands at the forefront of technological innovation, continuously integrating advanced tools to enhance operational efficiency and safety. Despite the rapid technological advancements, significant challenges remain in optimizing the use of these tools for pilot training and performance. This doctoral thesis investigates the multifaceted aspects of situational awareness and pilot performance in aviation, aiming to enhance safety and training efficacy through technological advancements. The research identifies key insights into using Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs), balancing operational efficiency with the risk of increased head-down time that can detract from situational awareness. A systematic literature review of preflight planning highlights gaps in current knowledge and proposes a new theoretical framework to understand critical operational factors better. A comprehensive bibliometric study maps the knowledge landscape of situational awareness in aviation, identifying trends and key research areas. The pilot performance determinants are explored, focusing on trust in technology and its interaction with situational awareness. The analysis extends to drivers of individual performance in simulation training, examining the impact of cognitive and technological factors on training outcomes. Additionally, the thesis assesses how preflight decision-making processes contribute to overall flight safety and effectiveness. By integrating theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and comprehensive reviews, this thesis offers significant insights into optimizing the use of advanced simulation devices and digital tools in aviation training. It addresses challenges associated with situational awareness, trust in technology, and the role of experience, providing valuable contributions to aviation safety and training practices. Key findings indicate that EFBs improve operational efficiency but can also increase head-down time, negatively impacting situational awareness. Trust in technology and the quality of information digital tools provide are crucial for enhancing pilot performance and decision-making. The research further reveals that advanced simulation training significantly improves pilots' cognitive and technological skills, enhancing overall flight safety. The major contribution of this thesis lies in providing a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between technology and human factors in aviation. By integrating insights from various studies and empirical data, the research offers new theoretical frameworks and practical recommendations for developing more effective training programs and safer aviation practices
Project lift: investment committee paper on the gym group - deep dive on value creation
No full textThe following report summarises the main outcome of the preliminary analysis conducted on
The Gym Group (TGG), a leading UK provider of low-cost fitness services, for the evaluation
of a Leveraged Buy Out (LBO) acquisition by a Private Equity Fund in the form of an
Investment Committee Paper (ICP). The first part (“Group Part”) consists of a complete
overview of the core components of the analysis and represent a summary of the complete ICP
itself. Subsequently, four, in-depth analyses (“Individual Parts”) of specific areas of focus
within the ICP are presented, providing more detailed insights
Assessing Social Inequity and Flood Susceptibility: A GIS-Based Spatial Statistical Approach: Integrating Social and Environmental Factors to Assess Flood Vulnerability in Harris County, Texas
No full textDissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Geospatial TechnologiesFlooding is one of the most severe climate-related hazards, disproportionately affecting
vulnerable and marginalized communities. This study examines the intersection of social
inequity and flood susceptibility in Harris County, Texas, through geospatial analysis and
statistical modeling to develop a comprehensive flood vulnerability assessment. A Social
Inequity Index (SII) is developed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on 34 socioeconomic and demographic variables, mapping and quantifying disparities in Harris County.
Simultaneously, a Flood Susceptibility Map (FSM) is generated using the Analytic Hierarchy
Process (AHP), incorporating ten key environmental and topographic factors that influence
flood susceptibility; results reveal that nearly 30% of the county’s territory exhibits high flood
susceptibility. To explore the spatial relationships between social inequity and flood
susceptibility, this study employs advanced spatial statistical techniques, including hot spot
analysis, Moran’s I, Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR), and Multiscale
Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR). By integrating the SII and FSM, a Flood
Vulnerability Map (FVM) is produced, highlighting communities where social inequity
exacerbates flood risk. Findings indicate that marginalized communities, particularly racial
minorities such as African-American and Hispanic populations, as well as elderly individuals
with disabilities, are disproportionately located in flood-prone areas. By bridging the gap
between climate change hazards, social equity, and geospatial analytics, this research
provides a novel framework for equitable disaster vulnerability assessment and management.
The results provide critical insights for policymakers, urban planners, and disaster response
agencies, enabling data-driven, targeted interventions that enhance community resilience
against both flooding and social inequity
O papel dos novos media e da crítica especializada na captação das audiências para o cinema independente
No full textCom a popularização dos novos media e a disseminação das plataformas de streaming,
assistimos a um aumento no volume de conteúdos audiovisuais distribuídos e ao aparecimento
de novas formas de comunicar e consumir cinema. A avaliação dos filmes continua a ser feita
com recurso a escalas numéricas ou gráficas, mas a crítica de cinema especializada parece
passar por um processo de transformação como forma de garantir a sua contínua relevância. O
formato curto das publicações online compete agora com a crítica escrita dita tradicional e o
electronic word of mouth (eWOM) assume um papel importante na tomada de decisão do
consumo de conteúdos audiovisuais. Mas será este um formato eficaz para comunicar com
todos os públicos? Com uma audiência de nicho e um orçamento de marketing reduzido, o
cinema independente depende cada vez mais de uma comunicação em diferentes meios.
Com o objetivo de apurar os fatores que estão na base da tomada de decisão de ver
cinema independente e avaliar a atual relevância dos novos media e da crítica especializada
neste processo, o presente estudo adotou uma abordagem exploratória com recurso a métodos
quantitativos e qualitativos. Os resultados obtidos a partir da análise dos dados recolhidos em
entrevistas e questionários a críticos e consumidores de cinema indicam que, no processo de
tomada de decisão de ver cinema independente, a opinião de amigos e familiares, as redes
sociais, o trailer e o elenco de um filme estão entre os fatores mais relevantes. A crítica de
cinema continua a ser valorizada, mas nos meios digitais.As new media have become more popular and streaming platforms have become more
widespread, we have seen an increase in the volume of audiovisual content distributed and the
appearance of new ways of communicating and consuming cinema. Films continue to be
evaluated using numerical or graphic scales, but specialised film criticism is transforming to
ensure its relevance. The short format of online publications is now competing with traditional
written reviews and electronic word of mouth (eWOM) is playing an important role in the
decision-making process for the consumption of audiovisual content. But is this an effective
format for communicating with all audiences? With a niche audience and a small marketing
budget, independent cinema increasingly relies on communication in different media.
To ascertain the drivers behind the decision to watch independent cinema and assess
the current relevance of the new media and specialised critics in this process, this study adopted
an exploratory approach using quantitative and qualitative methods. The results obtained from
the analysis of data collected in interviews and questionnaires with film critics and consumers
indicate that, in the decision-making process of watching independent cinema, the opinion of
friends and family, social media, the trailer and the cast of a film are among the most relevant
aspects. Film criticism continues to be valued, but in digital media
Internationalization project of a Portuguese HVAC manufacturer - an in-depth market analysis of the Netherlands
No full textFirm A, a Portuguese non-residential industry X manufacturer with revenues of ~€9mn in 2022,
targets international expansion to gain scale. This thesis formulates an internationalization strat egy using 24 macroeconomic variables to rank and cluster 97 countries for a comprehensive
market selection process. An individual analysis assesses the market attractiveness of the Neth erlands based on specific factors. Collectively, five individually developed analyses of the most
attractive markets identify the Netherlands as the prime target. The entry strategy suggests tran sitioning from indirect to direct exports to mitigate risks and meet financial targets.
A supplementary literature review covers the entry mode selection process
Business model definition: key components and strategic steps for developing a carbon credit marketplace
No full textThis thesis explores the development of a marketplace for voluntary carbon credits, addressing
market challenges and complexities. It underscores the importance of fostering sustainable cor porate practices and advancing the voluntary carbon market. The study employs a mixed-meth ods approach, combining market analysis, interviews, and financial modeling. Findings reveal
market dynamics, corporate pain points in credit procurement, and market inefficiencies. The
proposed business model, developed in collaboration with Celfocus, offers a unique solution
with blockchain technology, enhancing trust and efficiency. Findings are valuable for the de velopment of a marketplace in the offsetting sphere, aiding stakeholders in navigating the evolv ing landscap
Immersive virtual reality as a tool to develop soft skills of consultants
No full textThe use of immersive virtual reality for education and training purposes has increased over the
last years, however, the adoption in the consulting industry is limited. This study aims at
investigating consultants’ perspectives on the implementation of immersive virtual reality for
their soft skill training. The findings, derived by following an exploratory research approach
using semi-structured interviews, indicate consultants’ strong preference for in-person training.
The main stated drawbacks of immersive virtual reality training are the absence of social
interaction and the limited skill transfer to real-life situations. Nevertheless, it should be used
as a valuable addition to in-person training
How can b lab and the b impact assessment help sme´s improve their sustainability
No full textSMEs’ sustainability transition may significantly contribute toward achieving global
sustainability targets. Hence, the first part of the project analyses how Swedish SMEs can
accelerate their environmental sustainability. By analyzing challenges, best practices, and the
ecosystem, we derived recommendations that build on a shift in mindset toward perceiving
sustainability as an opportunity. While this shift must be anchored in the core business it can
be accelerated by enablers, e.g., NGOs. From here, the second part investigates how the
organization B Lab specifically can be an accelerator of change for SMEs by helping them
improve their sustainability along the recommendations derived