Dissertations / Theses: 'Sri Lanka construction industry'

1

Weddikkara, Chitra. "The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka." Thesis, Weddikkara, Chitra (2003) The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2003. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/395/.

Full text

Abstract:

The construction industry poses a number of challenges to those working in it. One important challenge is that the industry is dependent upon human interactions in the management of building projects. In this environment it is important for those who manage the projects to deal with intricate relationships and to consider the emotions, interactions and various types of reasoning that lie behind the actions and decisions taken by the participants in the construction process. The issue for researchers is to gain a better understanding of the variables that affect the actions of the participants in this process. Such research demands sensitivity to the values, attitudes and behavior developed by the different occupational groupings. These factors according to Edgar Schein define the culture of a professional group. This research was conceived on the belief that the professionals in the construction industry brought to bear their own professional culture on the industry. It was necessary to have a better understanding of this culture in order to be able to resolve disputes that occur in the construction process. That is the impact of culturally deternlined values, attitudes and behavior of these professional groups. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the professional cultures of the participants who come together in a construction project. The question posed was whether they shared a culture or had differences, and if differences existed whetherthese differences had an effect on the reactions of each of the groups to disputes and their resolution. A survey was carried out among professional groups in Australia and Sri-Lanka and the survey data from both countries were analyzed using statistical tests. The results show that professional groups share similarities in professional culture as well as differences. It also showed that these cultural differences created an adversarial atmosphere among construction project participants. It was also found that introducing a party outside of the usual professional groups would be beneficial in the resolution process. Respondents were of the opinion that the third party outside of the construction team could be a lawyer. This type of research is still new within the field of construction. The contributions of this work are to link professional culture and conflict and give some indication how such conflict could be addressed. In this context by identifying the values attitudes and behavior of professional groups the subject of conflict and disputes could be beneficially addressed through professional education.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

Weddikkara, Chitra. "The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka." Weddikkara, Chitra (2003) The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2003. http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/395/.

Full text

Abstract:

The construction industry poses a number of challenges to those working in it. One important challenge is that the industry is dependent upon human interactions in the management of building projects. In this environment it is important for those who manage the projects to deal with intricate relationships and to consider the emotions, interactions and various types of reasoning that lie behind the actions and decisions taken by the participants in the construction process. The issue for researchers is to gain a better understanding of the variables that affect the actions of the participants in this process. Such research demands sensitivity to the values, attitudes and behavior developed by the different occupational groupings. These factors according to Edgar Schein define the culture of a professional group. This research was conceived on the belief that the professionals in the construction industry brought to bear their own professional culture on the industry. It was necessary to have a better understanding of this culture in order to be able to resolve disputes that occur in the construction process. That is the impact of culturally deternlined values, attitudes and behavior of these professional groups. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the professional cultures of the participants who come together in a construction project. The question posed was whether they shared a culture or had differences, and if differences existed whetherthese differences had an effect on the reactions of each of the groups to disputes and their resolution. A survey was carried out among professional groups in Australia and Sri-Lanka and the survey data from both countries were analyzed using statistical tests. The results show that professional groups share similarities in professional culture as well as differences. It also showed that these cultural differences created an adversarial atmosphere among construction project participants. It was also found that introducing a party outside of the usual professional groups would be beneficial in the resolution process. Respondents were of the opinion that the third party outside of the construction team could be a lawyer. This type of research is still new within the field of construction. The contributions of this work are to link professional culture and conflict and give some indication how such conflict could be addressed. In this context by identifying the values attitudes and behavior of professional groups the subject of conflict and disputes could be beneficially addressed through professional education.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

Rodrigo, Thanuja Krishanthi. "Mitigating the Risk of Unfair Demands under On-demand Guarantees in the Export and Construction Industries in Sri Lanka: A Proposal for Legal and Structural Reform." Thesis, Griffith University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10072/367680.

Full text

Abstract:

The research question addressed in this thesis is: Would an expansion of judicial intervention (that recognises unconscionability as a separate and independent ground from that of fraud) in the enforcement of on-demand guarantees in Sri Lanka, be useful in mitigating the risk of unfair and opportunistic advantage taking on the part of the beneficiaires calling under on-demand guarantees in Sri Lanka? The problem of beneficiaries’ fraudulent or opportunistic, unfair advantage taking conduct in calling under on-demand guarantees – identified as unfair demands under on-demand guarantees – arises due to the nature of such guarantees which gives the beneficiaries the right to demand payment without having to prove the applicants’ default under the underlying contract. This inherent characteristic of on-demand guarantees gives the beneficiaries a strong position in relation to payment under such guarantees and the potential for misuse and unfair advantage taking in the guarantee market. Whilst the Sri Lankan courts have recognised the need for intervention in the enforcement of on-demand guarantees in circumstances where the beneficiaries’ demands are fraudulent, they have not yet recognised a mechanism to mitigate beneficiaries’ opportunistic and unfair advantage taking which is a form of unconscionable conduct in seeking the enforcement of these guarantees. This thesis examines this legal position in Sri Lanka which recognises limited scope for judicial intervention in the enforcement of on-demand guarantees, and which has led to a protection gap for the applicants of on-demand guarantees.
Thesis (PhD Doctorate)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Griffith Law School
Arts, Education and Law
Full Text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Nanayakkara, Leyon. "The motivation of masons in the Sri Lankan construction industry." Thesis, University of Reading, 2004. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.408327.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

Wijewickreme, S. P. "A framework for providing a lifelong social security system for the operational workforce in the construction industry in Sri Lanka." Thesis, University of Salford, 2016. http://usir.salford.ac.uk/40672/.

Full text

Abstract:

Construction is a projectised industry. One of the important resource requirements for construction projects is the availability of an operational workforce for its physical production. Hence, the operational workforce is a critical deciding factor in the success and failure of construction projects. The construction sector in Sri Lanka is suffering from a shortage of a required operational workforce for its physical operations even though the unemployment rate in Sri Lanka is about 5.2%. Research has further highlighted that “work” and “pay” are only the surface factors, hiding underneath them (Similar to an iceberg) are a multitude of different problems and the psychological needs of the workers. In addition to the shortage, there is a lack of an organised structure for human resources, which delivers time, cost and quality related behavioural constraints within the construction industry of Sri Lanka since circa the 1980’s. The aim of the research is to develop a sustainable framework for a lifelong social security system for the operational workforce of the construction industry in Sri Lanka without increasing the prevailing construction costs. The hypothesis is the minimising of resource wastages and behavioural impacts of current practices and the introduction a secured future life through a new system of lifelong social security [PR/SS] for the operational workforce. It is anticipated that the finances required for providing a social security system can be salvaged from the recovery values of material and time wastages and the demand and supply impacts generated as repercussions from the behavioural practices of the current operational workforce. The research instruments used for gathering primary and secondary data for evaluating the financial impacts of behavioural constraints were a questionnaire survey and audited financial statements. About 400 questionnaires (That were premeditated to calculate the finical impacts of the social behaviors of the construction operatives via ‘degree of importance’ and ‘relative important index’) were distributed to higher management of contracting organisations in Sri Lanka. A further request was made to the contracting organisations to provide audited statements for the past five years. From the research, it was identified that the unavailability of a human resources structure is a major constraint for the construction industry in Sri Lanka. Salvaged finances that could derive from the removal of the transitional layers of risk multiplication and the removal of the behavioural constraints of the construction operatives are sufficient to finance a lifelong social security system for themselves. Based on the research findings, a framework for the Building Forces of Sri Lanka [BFSL] was developed to overcome from the interim thinking pattern of the current construction operatives. In the current system, contracting organisations are not capable of providing the required training for the operatives. With the implementation of BFSL alongside the strong intervention from statutory organisations, a trained operational workforce can be developed to face any situation within the construction arena in Sri Lanka.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

araswamy, Mohan Maheswaran. "Evaluating the management of construction projects." Thesis, Loughborough University, 1991. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/7519.

Full text

Abstract:

Current approaches to evaluating the success of construction projects are inadequate in assessing and improving the management of ongoing and future projects. This is concluded from a study of the relevant literature and of construction project management in Sri Lanka and the U.K. The main criticisms of current practice are the ad-hoc nature of the evaluation itself, the failure to properly relate the evaluation: to the original project objectives; to contextual conditions; and to realistic targets derived from historical databases of similar projects. The absence of any such comprehensive database is a particular shortcoming in Sri Lanka. This research work develops and tests a framework for a comprehensive construction project evaluation system that would overcome such shortcomings.The system would help an evaluator generate a specific project evaluation framework depending on the category (type) and stage of the project and the particular purpose of the evaluation. Such a framework would contain criteria of project performance (eg: related to cost, time, quality, safety, satisfaction etc. and associated sub-criteria), hierarchies of 'indicators' by which to measure such criteria and typical target values (and ranges) of such indicators in that category. Such target values are weighted by the specific project profile, based on project priorities and contextual conditions. The sub-systems of the proposed evaluation system are the criteria, the indicators (with typical target values) and an expert system front-end. Supporting 'tools' modules contain techniques for information elicitation, weighting, analysis and presentation. The three sub-systems of criteria, indicators and the expert system were tested. For example, groups of cost indicators and their average values within specific project categories were derived from data obtained from 138 building, 35 roadworks and 38 bridge projects in Sri Lanka. Their validity was tested by their consistency within project categories, by comparison with projects outside the original database and at a Workshop with experts in Sri Lanka. A pilot expert system was developed to demonstrate the viability of integrating appropriate modules. It is concluded that the proposed system is viable and would provide comprehensive and realistic evaluations of the management of construction projects.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Jansson, Sofie, and Lovisa Persson. "A Case Study in Sri Lanka : Problems and Possibilities for Sri Lankas Textile Industry." Thesis, Högskolan i Borås, Akademin för textil, teknik och ekonomi, 2015. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hb:diva-840.

Full text

Abstract:

The competitive advantages of Sri Lanka's garment industry, and how these can lead to increased trade with Swedish companies, were examined through a study divided in two main parts. The research was carried out with a focus on the labour force and the social aspects of CSR. It was initiated in Sweden, where the goal was to investigate how Swedish companies select suppliers and what their requirements are in terms of code of conduct and social responsibility. In the following part of the study we examined the corresponding parts of Sri Lanka's garment industry. To identify the competitive advantages and potential problems, we conducted a study on three different factories in the country, where the owners, managers and workers were interviewed. To further expand the survey results we also interviewed additional stakeholders to the industry. In this case a trade union and an organization working in the garment industry. The collected data were analysed using selected parts of Porter's diamond and Carroll's CSR pyramid, as well as the Swedish companies' demands on the social aspects of CSR. In order to identify these requirements, interviews were conducted with four different people at the Swedish companies. We were also given access to documents with their code of conduct. Through our analysis we are able to identify the competitive advantages that exist within the industry. In addition to that we are able to identify the areas of the industry where problems exist today, but where Sri Lanka has the opportunity to strengthen its competitive advantages in order to become a more attractive partner for Swedish companies.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

Padmasiri, Wanigasundara W. A. "Extension needs of a plantation industry with special reference to the tea industry in Sri Lanka." Thesis, University of Reading, 1987. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.379215.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

Gunatilaka, Panangalage Dona Hemamalie Dias. "Inequalities at work : an investigation of the garment industry in Sri Lanka." Thesis, University of Warwick, 2018. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/103881/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis considers some of the different forms taken by the intersection of social inequalities and exploitation in Sri Lankan garment factories. It identifies the organisational policies and practices that reproduce different ‘inequality regimes’ (Acker, 2006) in three case study garment companies, including inequalities of gender, class, ethnicity, religion, age and sexuality. These ‘inequality regimes’ also operate as ‘factory regimes’ (Burawoy, 1983), through which companies seek to generate worker productivity. Further, the thesis analyses the relation between women’s domestic situations and their employment, showing how both are shaped by the wider Sri Lankan patriarchal social structure. In order to understand the inequalities experienced by women at work the thesis mainly seeks to answer two research questions. The first research question asks about the nature of intersecting inequalities in the three case study organisations. The second research question relates to how women going to work in garment factories changes women’s lives. This research question pays special attention to Elson and Pearson’s (1981) three possible tendencies in the relationship between the emergence of women’s factory employment and women’s subordination. Methodologically, the research was based on semi-structured interviews with 36 male and female participants, including owners, managers and workers across three case study organisations, and observations in headquarters offices and three factories over nine months in 2014-2015. The research found that although all three case study organisations are located in the Sri Lankan garment industry, each case study organisation is typified by a highly distinctive inequality regime characterised by different mechanisms for maintaining or modifying wider inequalities and generating workers’ consent: one a ‘despotic regime’, one a ‘maternalistic regime’ and one a ‘pragmatic regime’. Each of these is associated with a degree of individual worker agency, but little collective resistance. The research also found that women’s decisions to enter employment is influenced by the income level of their husbands or fathers. When household income is low women are more able to challenge familial patriarchal authority by taking up employment in garment factories. Women’s contributions to household finances are associated with their families gaining status, women being involved in family decision-making and men contributing to domestic work.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Salih, Maleeka. "The social construction of justice : searching for connection and credibility in Sri Lanka." Thesis, Queen Margaret University, 2013. https://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/7462.

Full text

Abstract:

Research in Sri Lanka suggests that many people experience a deep scepticism about the chances of achieving justice. This is true not only of those who had suffered the most gross forms of human rights violations in the country’s past conflicts but, surprisingly, also of those caught up in more ordinary forms of everyday disputes and grievances. The prevalence of this sentiment of pervasive ‘injustice’ – captured in one informant’s pithy statement that “only the powerful get justice in Sri Lanka” – compels closer scrutiny of the broader processes and politics of justice-seeking. This thesis, based on research carried out in 2008 and 2009 and on the analysis of detailed accounts from 110 informants in 3 geographical locations, studies this quotidian experience of justice-seeking and dispute settlement work in Sri Lanka. It provides insights into how the broader political and social environment shapes the possibilities of a just outcome for any of its citizens. The thesis reveals the overriding power of social and political factors in the justice-seeking process. Becoming ‘known’ in a way that establishes the credibility of disputants is important. This is an inherently social exercise in which dominant notions about credibility and legitimacy as defined by the state are reinforced. The thesis illustrates the crucial role of the state in everyday dispute management. The police are a key resource for mediators and disputants, who seem to rely most notably on the police’s acknowledged potential and actual capability for violence. Persons who are seen to be politically suspicious are especially vulnerable to such violence. Who constitutes a ‘suspicious’ person, however, is in flux. The thesis shows that attempts which focus narrowly on law reform and human rights advocacy will be in vain unless the social and political processes driving the implementation of justice are acknowledged and addressed.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

Thunberg, Nils, and Joel Eriksson. "Resources and Entrepreneurial Orientation : Empirical findings from the software industry of Sri Lanka." Thesis, Jönköping University, JIBS, EMM (Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Management), 2006. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-786.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: There are different types of firms in the world. Those that lead change and those who follow change. In this thesis, the authors have chosen to see if a dynamic industry in a developing nation can be the leaders of change, or if they are stuck as the ones following developments in the west.

Sri Lanka is a developing nation with a rapidly growing software industry. Like its neighbour, India, the country and region has been known for its cheap, yet highly skilled labour. This study thus aimed at seeing if something other than price, namely entrepreneurial strategy can play a meaningful role in explaining growth.

Purpose: To study the importance of the relationships between resources, entrepre-neurial orientation, the perceived environment and growth in a developing nation perspective.

Theoretical framework: Theory based on the Resource Based View, arguing that unique combinations of resources and capabilities are the creators of strategy and competitive advantage, together with theory on the Entrepreneurial Orien-tation of firms looking at innovativeness, proactiveness, risk-taking auton-omy of firms, was used to build a framework for analysing what drives growth in a dynamic market.

Method: In order to fulfil the purpose of the thesis, a quantitative study was con-ducted. A web survey was sent out to 73 firms, while 41 responded. A smaller qualitative study was also conducted in order to exemplify and pro-vide deeper knowledge on the findings from the quantitative part.

Conclusion: Several important knowledge-based resources and the EO components of proactiveness and autonomy showed significant relations to growth. Also, the findings indicated that certain resources contributed significantly to the EO of firms. However, it was proved that Sri Lanka’s software industry is not driven by innovation, but rather other factors.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

Seelanatha, Senarath. "Efficiency, productivity, change and market structure of the banking industry in Sri Lanka." University of Southern Queensland, Faculty of Business, 2007. http://eprints.usq.edu.au/archive/00003589/.

Full text

Abstract:

[Abstract]: During the last 27 years, the banking industry in Sri Lanka has undergone a series of changes through financial reforms, advancement of communication and information technologies, globalisation of financial services, and economic development. Those changes should have had a considerable effect on efficiency, productivity change, market structure and performance in the banking industry. The motivation of this study is to investigate empirically the impact of those changes on the banking industry. Thus, this study aims to address three main research issues related to the banking industry in Sri Lanka, namely:1. Whether deregulation of the financial services sector has led to improvement in efficiency and productivity gains.2. Whether banks’ inefficiency in the banking industry in Sri Lanka is determined by a set of microeconomic and macroeconomic variables.3. Whether the changes in efficiency or changes in market structure have influenced the overall operational performance of banks in Sri Lanka.This study adopts a non-parametric Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Malmquist Productivity Index (MPI) to measure efficiency and productivity gains of banks in Sri Lanka using financial and other information representing all local banks over a sixteen year period from 1989 to 2004. Input and output variables are refined to represent the intermediation and assets transformation roles of banks. Window analysis of mean estimated efficiency scores in both aspects indicates a negative trend in estimated efficiency during the study period. However, the analysis of efficiency scores (intermediation) of different forms of banks shows a negative trend during the first half of the study period and a slight positive trend during the end of the second half. These results imply that deregulation may have failed to improve the efficiency of the Sri Lankan banking industry in the short-term. However, the expected benefits of deregulation can be achieved in the long-term. Interestingly, the two state-owned banks have responded poorly to the initial phase of Sri Lankan financial reforms. However, the improved autonomy given to boards of management under the commercialisation process has led not only to improved efficiency, but also to the reduction of the efficiency gap between the state-owned banks and privately-owned banks. The analysis of efficiency scores (asset transformation) of different forms of banks records a stable trend in estimated efficiency. On the otherhand, estimated MPIs show that Sri Lankan banks have focused on improving productivity in the asset transformation process rather than the intermediationprocess.Analysis of determinants of technical efficiency shows that technical efficiency in intermediation has positive relationships with variables such as profitability,operational risk, purchased funds, liquidity and stock market capitalization; and negative relationships with variables such as product quality and line of business(commercial bank). Further, results show that efficiency in the asset transformation process has positive relationships with capital strength, operational risk, and market capitalisation; and negative relationships with line of business ownership (privately owned banks) and old banks. The investigation of influence of market structure and efficiency on operational performance finds that banks’ relative market power and technical efficiency have a significant influence on their return on assets (ROA). Noevidence supports any relationship of net interest margin with variables such as market power, concentration and efficiency.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

Agalewatte, Tikiri Bandara. "Competitive industry policy for economic development in Sri Lanka lessons from East Asia /." Access electronically, 2004. http://www.library.uow.edu.au/adt-NWU/public/adt-NWU20050111.134706/index.html.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Nagendram, Arumugam. "The pineapple industry in Sri Lanka : constraints and opportunities for its future development." Thesis, Imperial College London, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.392070.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Jayawardena, Janaki. "Cultural construction of the 'Sinhala woman' and women's lives in post-independence Sri Lanka." Thesis, University of York, 2002. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/14014/.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Amaradasa, R. M. W. "Role of public policy in linking university and research centres with industry in Sri Lanka." Faculty of Commerce, 2004. http://ro.uow.edu.au/theses/1746.

Full text

Abstract:

The promotional mechanisms employed in University-Research-Industry (URI) relationships have been considered a strategic factor in the development objectives of the industrialized countries. Such promotional mechanisms are based on recognized conceptual frameworks, which have been carefully examined by researchers. However, little work has been done in this field with respect to problems of less industrialized countries especially in small developing countries. The objective of this study was therefore to compare the URI characteristics and promotional mechanisms of developed countries with those in operation in small developing countries like Sri Lanka.The methodology employed for this study included exploratory survey, follow-up interviews, interviews with decision-makers and case studies while analytical tools in the grounded theory approach were used to deal with qualitative data.The URI relationships which are used as instruments to generate economic benefits, show wide discrepancies in performance among different countries. The promotional mechanisms, widely prevalent in industrialized countries, emphasized the importance of framework conditions. The characteristic features of the URI relationships in developed countries are better described in the international literature in terms of models, concepts and systems such as National System of Innovation. An analysis of literature shows that less industrialized countries need to have a better understanding of issues related to the operation of those relationships that are less rigorously influenced by theories and concepts developed in industrialized countries.The study revealed that the relationships in Sri Lanka are based on the lower end of the spectrum, characterized by short-term orientation that include education and training, and service-based relationships. Lack of structural mechanisms, financial constraints, regulatory rigidity, inadequacy of laboratory facilities and absence of inter-organizational communication seems to be the major features that curtail relationships. It was observed that process related constraints and weaknesses are widespread in all three types of organizations, in addition to the weaknesses related to the framework. Accordingly, three sets of issues based on internal and external factors for a particular type of organization were developed which could be widely used as check list of issues for any developing country. This checklist was tested with new forms of organizations which have evolved to overcome such weaknesses, by adopting the responsive-adaptive approach. The new forms of organizations show features such as heterogeneity, organizational diversity and trans-disciplinarity as well as internal transformation, influence of one type of organization upon another, creation of new organizations and networks. These features are more prevalent in organizations in developed countries. The findings lead to conclusion that the URI relationships in developing countries show in a broad context similarities to those of developed countries but at the same time differ in nature. The concepts and models used in developed countries to explain the URI relationships can also be used to explain those in developing countries. The importance in understanding micro level conditions and taking remedial measures to overcome negative impact is imperative. Finally, the public policy interventions that are necessary to promote URI relationships, while eliminating weaknesses in the framework and micro-environment are proposed in this study.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Nanayakkara, Leyon. "Site layout : how it is perceived to affect productivity in public sector construction projects in Sri Lanka." Thesis, Oxford Brookes University, 2012. https://radar.brookes.ac.uk/radar/items/2173bf32-65f5-42be-bb6f-4941b1bd187d/1/.

Full text

Abstract:

Improved productivity in the construction industry (Cl) can have an important role in improving national competitiveness and achieving a satisfactory growth rate in developing countries. The Sri Lanka (SL) State Engineering Corporation, SL Building Department, SL Port Authority and SL Labour Department have experienced that most of their projects are affected by low productivity. Most projects have also suffered from serious setbacks, and in certain cases even termination, of contracts: productivity is believed to be low compared to other developing countries and the Asian sub-continent in particular. The construction site layout plan (SLP) is one of the focal factors which strongly influence construction productivity. This research aims to investigate how productivity could be improved in the Sri Lank.an public sector building CI through effective SLP. The main objective of this research is to develop an empirically grounded framework for understanding the relationship between SLP and site productivity in the Sri Lankan construction industry (SLCI). The semi-structured interview was chosen as a main research instrument for data collection. 60 site staff members were randomly selected from 15 construction sites within the context of construction projects commissioned by the Sri Lankan public sector. The findings from the study show that the employers in Sri Lanka are aware of the supposed advantages of efficient SLP in Cl. However, construction SLP in the developed regions in the Sri Lankan CI is not vastly different from SLP in remote regions in the Sri Lankan Cl. Effective and efficient SLP in SLCI would contribute to improving their productivity considerably. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on productive construction site layout and also presents a SLP framework for improving construction productivity in the SLCI. The implementation of this SLP framework could give a new dimension and benefits to the SLCI. If successfully implemented this same framework, could be applied in other industries such as manufacturing. It could also be used in other developing countries - particularly in the Asian sub-region.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

Gunawardena, Miriya Prasanni. "A critical review of ecological impact assessment in Sri Lanka : with particular reference to the shrimp aquaculture industry." Thesis, Lancaster University, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.288988.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Preiksaite, Samantha, and Tora Levehag. "Understanding CSR in the textile industry in a middle-income country : Stories from future managers in Sri Lanka." Thesis, Högskolan i Borås, Akademin för textil, teknik och ekonomi, 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hb:diva-23448.

Full text

Abstract:

Production has relocated to the Eastern world, whilst consumption is dominating the Western world. Taking into consideration the cultural differences between East and West sanctions a problem, as it is identified that corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices require adaptation to the different cultural contexts. For this reason, it is of interest to study how the values in a middle-income country influence the attitudes that are formed towards CSR to further contextualise the need for adaptation of CSR. To accomplish the aim to the fullest extent, and to adequately form an understanding of how the values influence the attitudes towards CSR in a middle-income country, this study takes place in Colombo, Sri Lanka. As Sri Lanka is a country that has a prevalent textile industry, along with a strong focus on CSR activities and ethical production, augments the choice for the enactment of this study. In the essence of this, the encompassing purpose of this study is as follows: To illustrate how cultural values influence attitudes regarding CSR practices from a future managerial perspective in the setting of Sri Lanka, and if the cultural factors play an important role in the formation of values that inhere to CSR. The methodology of the research consists of focus groups that implicate a vignette technique that builds on the theoretical chapter. Five focus groups were performed, which comprised of fifteen students in total, all current fashion students within textiles, design and marketing at the University of Academy of Design (AOD) located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. By using the vignette technique enables the authors to compose ten scenarios, building on the concepts of CSR in where Carroll’s pyramid is of significance, along with cultural dimensions that are represented by Hofstede and Schwartz. Through these scenarios, the authors explore the attitudes of future managers, namely students, in their attempt to act upon ethical dilemmas. Thereafter, thematic analysis was used to extract four themes from the participants’ insights. These themes add up to the Sri Lankan Business Mindset, Hierarchy, Level of Recognition and Who is Responsible. The findings of this study suggest that in an attempt to approach CSR in a manner which strives to shape the values towards ethical reasoning, it is essential to take into consideration the four actors that are identified as responsible – namely the government, society, company, and individual.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Gamage, Asanka Hiroshana Horadugoda. "E-business impact on SCM in the apparel industry operating between a developing and a developed economy." Thesis, Bucks New University, 2007. http://bucks.collections.crest.ac.uk/9916/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis examines the impact of e-Business in the B2B segment of the Supply Chain between UK retailers and Sri Lankan manufacturers in the apparel sector. The literature review explored four interrelated themes, two of them informed by an exploratory study. Research collating these four themes is scarce, especially in the apparel sector although there is considerable research on supply chain management and information sharing, which adopts a quantitative approach. However, there is a relative lack of qualitative research into behavioural issues. Based on the literature review, 12 main research questions were formulated. Following a qualitative, approach respondents in five Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers were interviewed in an explanatory study comprised of 35 interviews. An innate analytical framework consisting of themes, attributes and categories (TAC) was developed for data analysis. A conceptual model incorporating three category combinations was developed, disclosing internal, external and holistic reasons for ICT implementation. Analysis of the findings suggests that, more than speed of delivery, visibility of information is the main benefit facilitated by new ICT, compared with traditional methods. The findings indicate that security is the main concern and the main barrier is remote plant location for conducting e-Business. The data indicate that 80 per cent of investigated companies do not have an appropriate level of ICT capability. Moreover, a manufacturer’s communication capability and information sharing are mainly decided by the dependency on the lead firm. Manufacturers that deal with multiple lead firms experience compatibility problems due to the lack of a hybrid system. Manufacturers also need to set realistic expectations for a communication system and employee motivation should be included in the evaluation criteria. In conclusion, building a few longer-term relationships, including an information sharing policy is considered crucial for achieving the true potential of e-Business.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Adolfsson, Julius, Ilse Haringa, and Irvine Andy. "Sustainability in lodging, a great challenge or utopia? An on-site case study in Sri Lanka." Thesis, Malmö universitet, Fakulteten för kultur och samhälle (KS), 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:mau:diva-21760.

Full text

Abstract:

The purpose of this research is to explore the challenges of leaders (lodging owners) when implementing sustainable practices in the lodging industry in Sri Lanka. The authors have used two established models (SPM3 & STM) to create the new model called SLM3, which was used to extract data and measure the perceptions of leaders with a sustainable narrative, when implementing sustainable practices within their lodging in Sri Lanka. This was done in order to bridge a gap for the authors, since there was no established model yet, that could be used for the purpose of this research. After using the model for the current research in the context of Sri Lanka, the authors conclude that the model mostly fulfilled the aim that it was created for, although some minor alterations were made to improve its simplicity and make it more understandable. The main findings are that the main challenges of lodging owners with a sustainable narrative, when implementing sustainable practices are gender equality, lack of collaboration and networks, limited influence, the hierarchical system and long-term thinking related to education. The reported challenges prevent the lodging owners in Sri Lanka from implementing sustainable practices to the extent to which they would like to.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Amarawardhana, Kumudu Nanditilaka. "Modeling of energy utilization of tourism industry to predict the future energy demand to showcase Sri Lanka - The ‘Miracle of Asia’." Thesis, Högskolan i Gävle, Avdelningen för bygg- energi- och miljöteknik, 2014. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hig:diva-16637.

Full text

Abstract:

Tourism industry in Sri Lanka shares a substantial amount of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and predicts an immense expansion within a short time frame. Owing to its energy intensiveness and competitiveness, a scrutiny in the energy utilization and the related impact on the environment is crucial. Furthermore, trend towards ecotourism forces the requirement of foreseeing a green energy supply to meet the ever rising demand. In this study, utilization of energy in the graded hotels in the country was modeled through LEAP (Long Range Energy Alternatives Planning System) software to predict the future energy demand. Monthly energy consumption data for three consecutive years for a sample of hotels covering classified and unclassified hotel establishments were used for modeling. Four scenarios were then analyzed based on the baseline scenario representing the country’s tourism industry profile of year 2010. It is shown that the energy intensiveness of the tourism industry will be overwhelming unless the DSM (Demand Side Management) tools are properly amalgamated for mitigation. Further the results of the study revealed that the existing electricity generation plan does not accommodate fuel diversification and energy mix, and needs revisions to induct renewable sources for greening energy supply of the country. The study provides an insight in identifying socially acceptable policy scenarios in energy supply and use of the tourism industry.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Ranathunga, Arachchilage Sumith Chandra Gopura. "Fashion education ecosystem: Bridging the fashion knowledge gap in the Sri Lankan apparel industry." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2018. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/123905/1/Sumith%20Chandra%20Gopura_Ranathunga%20Arachchilage_Thesis.pdf.

Full text

Abstract:

The export apparel industry in Sri Lanka is seeking to develop higher value fashion products and services for overseas consumers with the support of locally trained fashion designers. This thesis investigates how Sri Lankan designers are prepared by higher education and the apparel industry to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills that can contribute to the industry's development. The thesis identifies the collaborative approach of developing Sri Lankan fashion designers through higher education and apparel industry forming a "Fashion Education Eco-system".

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

De, Silva Kanakaratne Maheshan. "The impact of national culture and industry structure on grocery retail customer loyalty : a comparative study of the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka." Thesis, Bournemouth University, 2018. http://eprints.bournemouth.ac.uk/31168/.

Full text

Abstract:

Despite the pivotal influence of customer loyalty on retailer performance and profitability, the effect of national culture and industry structure on customer loyalty in grocery retailing has been thinly researched. This PhD is the first to investigate the influence of these factors by examining two culturally and structurally disparate markets; the UK and Sri Lanka. A sequential mixed methods research design was used where a qualitative phase (three focus groups in each country) preceded a large scale survey (n= 550). The preliminary inductive phase generated new knowledge in the absence of adequate existing theory and guided the development of the survey instrument which was used to further investigate the preliminary findings. This study finds that national culture has an indirect influence on customer loyalty via customer service and loyalty programmes. These findings make a significant contribution to theory by challenging the limited existing literature that suggests a direct influence. A direct influence of industry structure is identified in both countries; UK customers are more ‘truly’ loyal to their main retailer and this is influenced by a common focus on quality by retailers. Similarly, greater spurious and latent loyalty is evident in Sri Lanka where customers prefer retailers offering higher standards of customer service and product quality. An indirect influence is also highlighted by the aversion to tracking in the UK and openness in Sri Lanka which reflects the level of loyalty programme maturity and customer familiarity in the two countries. These findings provide the first focused insight of the influence of industry structure on customer loyalty. Findings further highlight that national culture influences customer perceptions of loyalty programme attributes where Sri Lankan customers are more open to tracking and tiered schemes whilst expecting preferential treatment and soft benefits. Whilst supporting the limited existing literature, these findings provide novel insights that will guide future research on the influence of national culture on loyalty programmes. The theoretical framework provided in this study is the first detailed depiction of customer loyalty in relation to national culture and industry structure. This framework will act as a valuable theoretical base when future research is undertaken in this area. From a practical perspective, this research will enable domestic grocery retailers in Western markets to understand how national culture influences customer loyalty, thereby, allowing them to cater to culturally disparate customer segments more efficiently. Similarly, international retailers can obtain a greater understanding of cultural and structural influences when developing their strategies by focusing on key elements such as customer service, product quality and loyalty programmes.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Herath, Mudiyanselage Renuka Pushpanjalee Herath. "The strategic importance of supply chain management in small and medium sized enterprises : a case study of the garment industry in Sri Lanka." Thesis, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10443/2627.

Full text

Abstract:

This research concerns SMEs in the Sri Lankan garment manufacturing and export industry and explores success factors in managing their supply chains. The overall aim of the study is to better understand successful supply chain management (SCM) practices which have been implemented by SMEs in the Sri Lankan garment exporting industry and the obstacles faced in their implementation. Eight telephone interviews were followed by 20 in-depth, face-to-face interviews with senior managers in Sri Lanka. Documentary evidence was also collected and analysed. Combined with a literature review on manufacturing operations, the data collection led to the development of three criteria for the selection of cases for the research: 1) maintaining direct contacts with foreign buyers, 2) shorter lead times and 3) high value added of products. Based on these three criteria, a sample of six cases: three firms that exercised 'more successful‘ SCM strategies and three characterised by 'less successful‘ SCM strategies were selected. Data were analysed using NVivo10 software with a combination of theoretically derived codes and indigenous codes as the coding strategy. Successful SCM strategies and constraints on improving SCM performance were identified based on each factor considered: lead time, value added and direct contacts related. While both macro and micro-environmental factors influence SME performance, the micro-environmental ones (in particular the lack of strategic business thinking, a weak resource base, resistance to business risk and low profit marginal niches) were far more salient. Further to this, the lack of a fabric manufacturing base within Sri Lanka is a common barrier for both 'more‘ and 'less successful‘ companies while company-specific successful strategies and constrains also were evident. The absence of direct contact with foreign buyers is critical for 'less successful‘ companies as it has led these companies to work with intermediaries. Critical supply chain decisions have to be channelled via buying offices, which leave these companies at risk. The findings add to a growing body of literature on the role of international buying offices and their impact on the implementation of SCM strategies‘ by exporting SMEs.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

Kapu, Arachchilage Nirosha D. "Linking uses of management control systems with strategic capabilities and business level strategies for organizational performance evidence from the Sri Lankan textile and apparel industry." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2010. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/369.

Full text

Abstract:

This research investigates how the uses of Management Control Systems (MCS), namely, diagnostic use and interactive use, as moderating variables, influence the relationship between business (competitive) strategies (which are determined by strategic capabilities) and organizational performance. Simons’ levers of control model, Porter’s theory of generic competitive strategy and the Resource Based View (RBV) of strategy have been considered as the underpinning theories and models of the study in developing the theoretical framework and hypotheses. The theoretical framework consists of two strategic capabilities (low cost competency and uniqueness competency), two generic business strategies (cost leadership and differentiation), two uses of MCS (diagnostic and interactive) and organizational performance as the study variables leading to twelve hypotheses based upon the extant literature. In this quantitative research, five hypotheses are developed as exploratory while the other seven hypotheses are confirmatory.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Nawinna, Dasuni Priyanwada. "The Role of Social Capital and ICTs in Inter-Organizational Collaboration in a Developing Economy: An Empirical Study of the Finance Industry in Sri Lanka." Thesis, Curtin University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/57564.

Full text

Abstract:

This empirical study develops a theory of how ICT enabled social capital affects interfirm strategic collaboration and performance, through structural modelling approach using survey-data and secondary-data from the Srilankan banking industry. The results suggest multiple dimensions of social-capital positively influence interbank collaboration and performance, and that ICTs, firm-size, age, gender-ratio of directors, ownership, culture, organization structure and previous experience strengthen such effects. The study contributes to a holistic perspective incorporating social, technical and organisational aspects.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Jayamaha, Ranee. "The monetary transmission mechanism in Sri Lanka 1977-1985 : a macro simulation approach to the modelling of the money supply process and the construction of an analytical framework for monetary management." Thesis, University of Bradford, 1989. http://hdl.handle.net/10454/4341.

Full text

Abstract:

The primary objective of this thesis is to analyse the relationship between money and the macro-economy in Sri Lanka between 1977 and 1985, in order to identify the paths through which monetary policy impulses are transmitted over this period. In doing so, - we also hope to highlight the use of macro-simulation as a tool for the analysis of the monetary transmission mechanism and to emphasise the importance of formulating monetary policy within an explicit monetary control framework. This is especially important in Sri Lanka since monetary policy has been a key instrument of demand management since 1977 and historically there has been a noticeable absence of an explicit monetary control framework. Empirical research on the monetary transmission mechanism has been very limited as far as developing countries are concerned. An exception here is the SEACEN (1981) study which simulates the effects of monetary shocks on a number of South East Asian countries, including Sri Lanka, using a flexible monetarist approach. Our research is based upon a revision of the specification of this model for Sri Lanka and a more comprehensive disaggregation of the monetary transmission channels. Our empirical model produces statistical results which are generally acceptable and conform to a Priori expectations. This model is then simulated dynamically, both, to validate the equations in the context of a complete model and to quantify the impact of alternative policy scenarios relating to the monetary transmission mechanism in Sri Lanka. We believe that our results will help to shed light on the nature of the monetary transmission mechanism in developing countries as well as provide the basis for an on-going analysis of monetary management in Sri Lanka.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

Thilakasiri, M. A. "Planning multiple enterprise farming systems in coconut associations : Matara district of Sri Lanka." Master's thesis, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/122918.

Full text

Abstract:

A large and important proportion of coconut area of Sri Lanka is owned and operated by smallholder farmers. Low productivity and resource use are common features of these farms and ways to improve productivity and farm income rest largely on efficient utilization of existing resources, basically land and labour, since no expansion of the farm area is possible. Since large proportions of land are underutilized under coconut monoculture systems, the expansion of multiple enterprise farming systems in coconut associations would be a useful approach to improve the productive capacity of these farms. This study aims to identify and describe existing farming practices on the small farms in the Matara district of Southern Sri Lanka, and to evaluate alternative multiple enterprise farm models to suit the constraints of the cropping calendars and the resource base. Data on 270 farms were collected in 1982, and are analysed in this study. This is followed by whole farm planning using Linear Programming(Lp). The model considers the farm household as a production-cum-consumption unit with a common resource base at their disposal and involving in a variety of enterprises. Prior to development and evaluation of alternate cropping patterns using LP, the relevance of the Farming System Approach to the present study is discussed and the study area is then introduced. The present structure of the small farms are examined and the farms are classified based on the resource endowments and the current cropping patterns. The survey reveals that these small farmers are involved in multiple enterprise farming systems with coconut as a major but not the sole concern. Different farm types are identified based on the component structures, namely: lowland, upland and homegarden. The three component farm type were the most widespread and appear to have the highest potential for improvement. Wherever lowland rice is found as a component of these systems, the activities of the seasonal cropping calendar are dominated by the rice except in the case of larger holdings where more systematic cultivation is carried out using hired labour, for market production. Present utilization of coconut lands is limited to occasional instances of systematic cultivation of intercrops, such as cinnamon and banana, while a fair proportion of farmers practice some form of mixed culture where unorganised, indiscriminately planted crop combinations, including perennial, semi-perennial and annual crops are grown. These are typically cultivated on a small area surrounding the homestead whilst a significant proportion of the area among coconuts is grossly underutilized. The area planted to intercrops does not appear to vary as farm size increases. Thus the absolute area under intercrops remains the same on most farms. The LP analyses demonstrates that the major obstacle for system improvement in these farms is closely related to the farm size. While the smaller farms suffer from the limitations of available capital budget for farm improvement, the larger farmers find difficulties due to restrictions in available labour during peak periods. The mid size farms too appear to suffer from capital limitation, but are better off than their smaller counterparts. The optimal crop mix changes with the capital availability in the models and certain farm areas are not brought into the plan in the larger farms due to limitation in available family labour. Pepper and vegetables enter the plan as intercrops under low levels of capital availability, while banana dominates the crop mix as the capital restraints are relaxed. The intertemporal LP approach appear to have useful applications in selecting appropriate crop mixes to suit the farm endowments. However, the need to evaluate a wider range of enterprises, including livestock management options, before farm level recommendations could be made is highlighted. Furthermore, this study establishes the importance of considering the whole farm unit in planning and extension, rather than concentrating on particular crops or enterprises.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Sri Lanka construction industry'

Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles