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The influence of culture on cross-border communication strategies and negotiation in the Irish fast-fashion industry
No full textThis research analyses the effect of culture on cross-border communication approaches and negotiation of the Irish fast-fashion business. Employee views, experiences, issues, and approaches in working with overseas business associates were investigated through this research. The research onion model has been used for designing research methodology. In this study, quantitative data have been acquired by conducting an online survey. Data was gathered through a survey of 107 respondents with cross-border business experiences via a structured questionnaire. The survey significantly involves both current and ex-staff of fast-fashion chains in Ireland who had direct experience of cross-border communication and negotiation to ensure relevant and context-appropriate findings. Results indicated that differences in cultures, particularly non-verbal communication, hierarchy, and negotiating style, often generated misunderstandings. Adaptable employees and those deriving benefit from organisational cultural awareness training appeared predominant, but issues related to differences in ethical perceptions and absence of teams’ cultural competence remained an issue. Approaches involving cultural awareness schemes, knowledge of locals, translation instruments, and information technologies emerged as practiced extensively on all sides, though personal contact remained dominant. Implications of the research indicate the necessity of ongoing, locally-specific and balanced approaches towards awareness of cultures. Recommendations for organisations, employees, and policy on future improvement of intercultural awareness and enhanced international business relationships ensue
The use of Artificial Intelligence in the distribution and transport process to optimise routes, reduce operating costs and provide better customer service at the time of delivery of goods
No full textThe purpose of this study was to analyse the relevance of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the logistics process of goods distribution and transport, with a special focus on improving route planning to achieve a reduction in operating costs and better organisation and customer service in a timely manner for the recycling company MIRALGAR. This research mentions different theories and mathematical models, such as ‘Graph Theory’ and the ‘Execution and Replanning Surveillance Agent Model,’ to enrich and support the topic. It also analyses several applications that artificial intelligence has contributed to evolve and help the world of transport logistics, and how different companies have been implementing them efficiently. Surveys and interviews were used as research tools to evaluate the organisation of route planning within the mentioned company. The results confirmed that the company needs to improve and implement new planning methods, as it has suffered significant losses, delays and high operating costs. Therefore, it was concluded that this research was a success, as the use of surveys and interviews had a positive influence on MIRALGAR, since they reflected on their current situation and showed a high interest in starting to use artificial intelligence to help them improve this process and stand out in the logistics environment
To what extent does the adoption of hybrid working models contribute to increased employee satisfaction and organisational productivity in the post-covid era?
No full textThe rapid expansion of hybrid working arrangements accelerated by Covid-19, has reshaped organisational practices and employee expectations across sectors. While promoted for enhancing flexibility, independence and work life balance, hybrid work also presents challenges related to collaboration, digital infrastructure, organisational culture and emotional consequences such as technostress, isolation and uncertainty. Even as hybrid work becomes more widespread, the academic evidence remains inconclusive with studies offering contrasting conclusions abouts its impact of employee satisfaction and organisational productivity.
This dissertation investigates the extent to which hybrid work models contribute to employee satisfaction and organisational productivity in the post pandemic era. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, Self Determination Theory and Job Demands Resource model, the study examines hybrid work as both a potential resource and a stressor, depending on the balance of demands, support and infrastructure.
A quantitative research design was employed, involving 120 employees across multiple sectors with a focus on the technology industry where hybrid work practices are most advanced. Validated instruments were used to assess flexible working arrangements, digital infrastructure, work life balance, innovation and related organisational outcomes. A pilot test was conducted to refine the instrument and reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha. Group differences were analysed through one-way ANOVA and mediation effects were tested using SPSS Process macro.
Findings provide insight into the conditions under which hybrid work enhances satisfaction and productivity while also identifying risk such as technology induced stress and unclear work responsibilities. The research contributes to both theory and practice by offering evidence based recommendations for organisations designing or refining hybrid work models. It further identifies limitations and proposes directions for future research, positioning hybrid work as a critical field of study in the evolving future of work
Study of sustainable strategies of waste management in real estate construction sector in Delhi – India
No full textThis study focuses on the real estate business in Delhi, aiming at gathering insights on the current techniques, stakeholders, and the way GIS is utilized to manage C&D waste, because it is in these pertinent areas that the areas of high concentration can be established. The survey of 60 industry professionals used in this research targeted policy experts, project managers, and contractors, and all of their answers were taken as the main source of data. Statistical analyses (ANOVA, correlation, and Chi-square tests) have revealed substantial correlations, linkages, and associations between stakeholder roles, regulatory efficacy, and waste severity. Mapping through the geographic information system showed places where the concentration of garbage was high, which signaled the inefficiency in the infrastructure and space. Based on the results, it is clear that a lack of adequate enforcement, inadequate recycling facilities, and insufficient coordination between the stakeholders are undermining the overall sustainability of waste management activities in the country. The suggestions include the use of improved enforcement, more decentralized recycling infrastructure, GIS-based monitoring, enhanced training of the stakeholders, and the encouragement of sustainable behavior. The analysis of this case indicates that the building industry in Delhi could take advantage of a more effective, transparent, and sustainable system of waste management when the quantitative analytics and coverage mapping are merged to provide location-specific answers
The Role of Students’ Unions in Cultivating Sustainability Awareness Among Third-Level Students in Ireland
No full textThis dissertation investigates how Students’ Unions (SUs) encourage third-level students in Ireland to care about sustainability. SUs, which are led and supported by students and exist within the culture of higher education institutions, have a strong influence on environmental and social issues on campus. The work involves looking at existing studies, studying a case of the National College of Ireland Students’ Union (NCISU), and collecting information using interviews and surveys. Research has identified important points, such as how students influence each other, the planning of sustainable activities, and the need for universities and Facilities Management to join forces. According to the research, despite having strong leadership skills, SUs’ progress is frequently stopped by short supplies, only symbolic acknowledgment, and uncertain backing. It is concluded that when institutions support and fund SUs and when the government backs them, SUs can drive important changes for a sustainable campus community
Chronic Stress and Cognitive Functioning: Mediation Effects on ADHD Symptomatology
No full textBackground: This study sought to broaden our understanding of ADHD symptomatology in a large sample of adults (n = 118, female = 87, male = 31), aged 18-62 years. This study investigated the mediating effects of cognitive functioning on the association between chronic stress and Attention-Deficit-Hyperactive-Disorder (ADHD). The objective was to expose a potential mechanism emphasizing the relationship between chronic stress and ADHD symptoms.
Methods: An online questionnaire was conducted consisting of three scale measures; Chronic Stress Index (CSI) Cognitive Functioning Self-Assessment Scale (CFSS) and Attention-Deficit-Hyperactive-Disorder Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1).
Results: A significant indirect effect of chronic stress (X) on ADHD symptoms (Y), through cognitive functioning (M) was observed (B = 1.40, 95% BCa CI [.613, 2.29], p = .0009), while the direct effect of X on Y became non-significant (B = .686, 95% BCa CI [-.234, 1.61], p = .142), in the presence of M, indicating full mediation.
Conclusion: Findings highlight the detrimental effects that exposure to chronic stress imposes on cognitive functioning, while presenting as a fundamental influential factor in the prevalence of ADHD symptoms via indirect effects. These findings inform our knowledge and understanding of ADHD symptomatology, which may inform future clinical practice
Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Open-Mindedness & Political Bias
No full textThis current project aimed to examine the relationship between social media use, and open-mindedness & political bias. The study examined how time spent on social media, which political content is consumed and which political ideology participants identified with, associate with levels of open-mindedness and political bias. Previous research within the literature on this topic has suggested that an increase in both age and exposure to differing viewpoint on social media leads to an increase in levels of open-mindedness, while also suggesting that both left and right-wing individuals shared comparable levels of political bias. With the wish to expand on this literature, participants (n = 91) completed a set of demographic questions followed by two questionnaires: The Actively Open-minded Thinking Beliefs Scale & The Affective Polarization Scale. Responses were analysed through a standard multiple regression, which revealed that age and exposure to opposing beliefs have a relationship with levels of open-mindedness, while higher political bias levels can be predicted by individuals identifying as ideologically left-wing. These findings have provided a better understanding of both open-mindedness and political bias, and provided important information for policymakers on a key concern in todays society
A Qualitative Study of How Irish Drinking Culture Shapes and Challenges the Socialisation Experiences of Irish Muslims
No full textBackground and Aims: The aim of this study is to explore the subjective experience of Irish Muslims and their perceptions of Irelands drinking culture on their social interactions.
Methods: Employing a qualitative phenological approach, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven females and five males.
Results: Four overarching themes were identified: (i) Being the Irish non-drinker in the community; (ii) Pushed towards an alternative community; (iii) The impact of being excluded on the quality of life and (iv) Climbing the social and professional ladder, highlighting the severity of alcohol in friendships, and progressing professionally.
Major implications: The findings have shown important implications for the Irish Muslim populates in terms of experiencing exclusions when socialising in academic environments, professional fields and in social events. Increased sensitivity and awareness towards religious minorities in alcohol centric countries should be noted by fostering non-alcoholic work and educational events
The Complexities of Acculturation and Discrimination of Immigrants in Ireland
No full textIntroduction: The increasing number of multi-cultured immigrants reaching the Republic of Ireland, suggests notable psychological adaptations for the Irish-arrived immigrants, in relation to their ability to acculturate and assimilate in Irish society. This research study explores the relationship between perceived discriminatory experiences and the processes of assimilation and acculturation among Irish immigrants, considering demographic variables (age, gender, ethnicity).
Method: This study employs a quantitative, cross-sectional, within-subjects design. A number of 82 participants, have been administered three measured scales, 1) the Acculturation Attitude Scale (AAS), (2) Vancouver Index of Acculturation (VIA), and lastly, (3) Day-to-Day and Major Events Discrimination Scale (EDS) & (MEDS); alongside recording the demographical factors of each individual (age, gender, and ethnicity).
Results: The results administered non-significant results regarding all hypotheses identified; two correlational analyses, simple linear regression analyses for each variable, and lastly, two multiple regression analyses.
Conclusion: The findings of this study determined non-significant relationship between perceived discrimination and assimilation/acculturation in Irish immigrants. Therefore, suggesting that other factors beyond discrimination influence assimilative and acculturative attitudes among Irish immigrants. Further research is recommended to explore these potential influencing factors in greater depth
Securing IoT System Using ML Models
No full textThe security mechanisms for Internet of Things systems often rely on traditional rule-based detection systems alone to detect sophisticated threats like distributed denial of service, which sometimes fall inadequate in terms of adaptability required in modern-day detection. This research tries to bridge the gap between the academic researches and practical applications by contributing a scalable and robust detection framework in modern cloud infrastructure. The research aims to design and implement a real-time hybrid detection mechanism on a cloud platform—Amazon Web Services that would integrate the security information and event management, intrusion detection system (IDS), and machine learning models to detect and classify the cyber threats efficiently. Attack simulations were conducted to generate real-time logs which were monitored through the Suricata IDS, followed by the log processing in ELK (Elasticsearch, Logstash, and Kibana) stack. Ensemble learning models like Random Forest and XGBoost were deployed to complement the rule-based detections and all this was presented in visual forms in real time without significant delays. This was proven by an average detection time of 0.514 milliseconds, demonstrating the system’s suitability for real-world conditions. The framework tends to bridge the gap between conceptual and practical deployments with the implementation of real-time hybrid detection system in a cloud environment