International Journal of Applied Systemic Studies (10 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Key barriers in the growth of engineering education in the context of Chhattisgarh state: a Fuzzy Kano and TISM integrated approach  
  by NAVEEN JAIN, Prateek Sharma, Bhagwaticharan Patel 
  Abstract: Today, countries depend on knowledge-driven innovation for economic growth which depends on the quality of the engineering education system and management. In India, the All India Council for Technical Education is the flag bearer of planning, formulation, and dissemination of technical education in the country. Since 20122013, there is a drastic decline in admissions in engineering courses across the country. Hence, there is a need to identify the barriers that dominate engineering education and hinder the students from opting for engineering as a career option. The proposed work focuses on determining the key barriers to the growth of technical education in the state of Chhattisgarh by an integrated fuzzy Kano model and total interpretive structural modelling approach. The result of the study will provide deeper insight and a better understanding of the higher engineering scenario in the state and will help decision-makers to take constructive and progressive steps to improve the engineering education scenario.
  Keywords: Kano model; total interpretive structural modelling; TISM; fuzzy Kano; engineering education management; key barriers; interpretive structural modelling; ISM; technical education; critical failure factors; CFFs; reachability matrix; HEI; digraph.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2023.10047241
   
  
• Sustainable future initiatives to mitigate air pollution by Indian corporates  
  by Gurloveleen Kaur, Lalit Singla 
  Abstract: Particulate matters 2.5 is an air pollutant component sternly harmful to human health chiefly released by the operations of corporations. The present study is conducted to evaluate the proportion of non-greenhouse gas emissions. Five companies from the seven most polluted industries specified by the Center of Pollution and Control Board were chosen, based on higher market capitalisation from the steel, sugar, paper, cement, fertiliser, copper, and aluminium industries. The corporations were found to release a good amount of non-GHG emissions, but decent control on such releases has been observed in 2023. Certain measures like the installation of electrostatic precipitators, replacing clinker with advanced technology, using solar and wind energy, bicarbonate products, NONEL detonators, and other efforts were made. Lack of data, uniformity in reporting, least concern for the environment, and others were the observed limitations. Indian companies are suggested to protect the earth from harmful emissions with more effort.
  Keywords: green energy; sustainability; Particulate Matters 2.5; WHO; Air Quality Index; AQI; standards.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2024.10068537
   
  
• Integration of technology in second language acquisition: identifying and analysis of factors assisting English learning  
  by Ayesha Alice Mundu, Shabnam Swati Minz, Rajiv Bhushan, Doreswamy Doreswamy 
  Abstract: Since the passage of time, English language has occupied a significant position in the country because of which, dissemination of English language has long started in the schools and academic curriculum. Though schools especially non-English medium schools are able to ingrain knowledge of English language but it still lacks to develop in students, a standard level of proficiency which would help them to take advantage in education or career front. The paper hypothetically claims that assimilation of technology in teaching and learning practices can help learners to improve their English competency. Taking in consideration the assimilation of technology in English teaching and learning the paper explores factors of how technology assists learning English as second language. The study incorporates ISM and MICMAC analysis to examine the relationship of each factor which also helps in identifying the key drivers that have a significant impact on English learning process.
  Keywords: English as second language; technology; interpretive structural modelling; ISM; MICMAC.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2024.10068852
   
  
• Benchmarking applied factors to systemically investigate the influence and performance characteristics of the solar energy technology  
  by Sanju Kumar Nishad, Atul Kumar Sahu 
  Abstract: Solar collector represents a device that primarily collects solar radiation and induced performance capabilities can be attain via right selection of solar collector. Accordingly, in study; cluster of driving factors are presented and investigated towards influencing the performance of solar technology. The study describes 15 qualitative and 18 quantitative factors that can help practitioners in influencing the performance characteristics of solar technology. The study has utilised six-step methodological framework to evaluate described factors and 33 questionnaires are presented for mapping said factors. The compensation of factors allied with power output aptitude, orientation and tilt angle and glass maintenance and prevention from breakage are found significant for attaining prominent efficiencies from solar system. This study attempts to spread a knowledgeable base, valuable facts and critical insights to researchers and practitioners about different factors that can affect the performance of solar systems. The study will support in future development of solar technology.
  Keywords: solar energy; evaluation; qualitative and quantitative factors; questionnaires; benchmarking.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2024.10069080
   
  
• Bridging employer branding and talent management for enhanced organisational engagement: insights from the Indian IT sector  
  by Emily Maria K. Jose, Pooja Venkatesh 
  Abstract: In the dynamic and competitive IT sector, attracting and retaining skilled professionals is vital for organisational success. This study examines the impact of employer branding on organisational engagement, with talent attraction as a mediator. Data from 186 employees across ten leading Indian IT companies were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Results indicate that a strong employer brand significantly enhances talent attraction and organisational engagement. Talent attraction partially mediates the employer branding engagement relationship, emphasising its pivotal role in transforming branding efforts into sustained engagement. These findings highlight the need for integrating employer branding with strategic recruitment, professional development, and a supportive work culture to boost engagement and productivity among IT professionals. The study offers practical insights for HR and business leaders while encouraging future research to explore cross-sector and cross-cultural perspectives for broader applicability.
  Keywords: employer branding; talent management; organisational engagement; IT sector; organisational success; work culture.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2024.10069214
   
  
• Design management in multi-stakeholder DBB projects: integrating RIBA work stages and FIDIC White Book to align process and contractual frameworks  
  by Maj Deepti Nangia, Virendra Kumar Paul 
  Abstract: This research puts in perspective the crucial role played by design management consultants (DMCs) in bridging the legally binding frameworks of FIDIC with the process-driven structure of RIBA. It proposes customised contractual clauses for DMCs adapted from FIDIC white book and a framework for adapting FIDIC clauses, originally formulated for individual consultants, to delineate the expanded responsibilities of DMCs. DMCs improve interdisciplinary collaboration, reduce delays, and ensure compliance with sustainability goals, providing long-term value to clients by aligning respective standards of care, management of risks through design-stage interventions. The proposed synergistic alignment of FIDIC White Book and RIBA Plan of Work frameworks will not only enhance the design management processes but will also give direction in strengthening DMCs role. It offers a framework for achieving seamless integration in the Indian construction context and aims to close the gaps in process coordination, contractual clarity, particularly in the Indian construction context.
  Keywords: design management; FIDIC; RIBA; standard of care; design bid build.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2025.10070458
   
  
• Manufacturing firms inventory management practices: research, practices and gaps  
  by Rashmiranjan Panigrahi, Padma Charan Mishra, Avinash Kumar Shrivastava, Rajesh Matha 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the disparity between research findings and practical implementation in inventory management practices (IMP), focusing specifically on the impact of knowledge of inventory automation (KIA) and cost efficiencies (CE) on operational performance (OP) within the context of Industry 4.0. The paper critically reviews the literature through lenses of bibliometric and content analysis techniques in the time period from 2014 up to 1 February 2024. The findings indicate significant potential for improvement in the use of automated and smart manufacturing technologies by SMEs regarding IMP, KIA, and OP. The study identifies opportunities for adopting Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance inventory management, improve the skill sets of professionals in automated inventory practices, and reduce adoption costs, leading to seamless operational performance. A novel contribution of this study is its proposed model, which illustrates a symbiotic relationship among IMP, KIA, and CE, and their collective impact on OP. Effective inventory management practices rely on the utilisation and sharing of both implicit and explicit knowledge within the emerging SMEs.
  Keywords: inventory management practice; automation knowledge; cost efficiencies; manufacturing industry; small and medium-sized enterprise; SMEs; content analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2025.10070554
   
  
• Analysing the impediments in successful seismic retrofitting of vulnerable structures: a case of Delhi, India  
  by Sanika Upasani, Salman Khursheed, Virendra Kumar Paul, Abhijit Rastogi 
  Abstract: Delhi, with a population density of 11,320 persons/km2, faces significant seismic risks as it lies in Zone IV. Alarmingly, one-third of its population resides in substandard housing, necessitating effective seismic retrofitting. This study examines barriers to implementing retrofitting measures through a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review and a survey of 120 stakeholders. Key impediments identified include low awareness, financial constraints, weak regulatory enforcement, and technical challenges in retrofitting older buildings. Socio-economic and administrative hurdles further complicate adoption. To enhance effectiveness, this research recommends public awareness campaigns, stronger regulations, and financial incentives. Addressing these barriers will improve the seismic resilience of vulnerable structures. The study contributes valuable insights for policymakers, engineers, and researchers working on seismic risk reduction and urban planning globally.
  Keywords: policymakers; seismic retrofitting; socio-economic impediments; structural audit; vulnerable structures; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2025.10070884
   
  
• Navigating AI integration in HRM: qualitative insights from TISM methodology  
  by Vijay Kumar Jain, Amit Deval, Anjali Dimri, Preeti Sharma, Bipin Kandpal 
  Abstract: Artificial intelligence has emerged as a critical component of human resource management in todays commercial environment. As businesses struggle to remain competitive and efficient, they are turning to AI-powered solutions to streamline operations and maximise resources, therefore, the objective of the paper is to identify the important drivers of AI adoption in HRM and explore interlinkages among them. Sixteen drivers were identified based on extensive literature review and experts opinions. Total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) is employed to classify the select divers in order to develop six levels hierarchical structure based on their driving power and dependence. The analysis reveals that HR readiness; technology advancement and lack of trust and transparency are the most important drivers for AI implementation in HR in organisations. The study facilitates decision makers to take required action to encourage the AI adoption in the organisations. This will further help firms to develop more efficient HR process by embracing new technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing, helping them remain ahead of the competition in todays quickly changing business climate.
  Keywords: automation; performance expectancy; employee well-being; robotic process automation; HT chatbot and virtual assistants; total interpretive structural modelling; TISM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2025.10070895
   
  
• Exploring the impact of accounting principles on cost management with moderation of risk and blockchain technology  
  by Yixia Niu, Shangjie Li 
  Abstract: Accounting principles contribute a critical role in cost management because they offer guidelines in terms of guiding cost accountability, analysis, and control. Risk management deals with managing risks that may occur financially while blockchain provides unaltered records in real-time; therefore, it helps eliminating risks of making wrong decisions. In this study, the first aim is to examine the correction between accounting principles, (e.g., accrual, consistency, conservatism, going concern, matching, historical cost, and revenue recognition principle) on cost management (CM). Secondly, moderating forces were observed, (e.g., financial risk and blockchain technology) between the connection of accounting principles and CM. The study found that by emphasising accounting principles, organisations may improve cost management whereby considering risk and blockchain technology additional can strengthen the relationships between accounting principles and CM.
  Keywords: accounting principles; cost management; risk management; blockchain technology; structure equation modelling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2025.10070896