Published papers

The CO2 intensity targets that companies disclose have come to play two roles in their environmental evaluation: (i) as an external index demonstrating companies’ commitment to environmental issues; (ii) as an internal measure for controlling and managing their environmental activities. We focus on the CO2 emission intensity reduction targets of eight automobile manufacturers. Such targets have not yet been standardised, and so they are sometimes difficult to compare. We propose a new CO2 emission efficiency index using data envelopment analysis (DEA) that can compare companies in the same industrial sector. We first research CO2-related indices employed by the companies. Next, we collect economic data and CO2 emission data for the 5 years from 2008 to 2012 and evaluate the companies using a DEA bad-output model. We then take Fiat’s case and found that the new index, based on several economic factors, offers better comparability than simple indicators, since it accounts for more of the CO2 emissions’ economic background. The index will be useful for companies considering mid- to long-term CO2 reduction targets, as it takes several economic aspects into account simultaneously, and will appeal to stakeholders who want to improve their companies’ positions in the industry.

In the learning process for the operation of the machine tool, there's are two groups: one with a higher ability to finish within the allotted time and targeted workpiece size within the allowed tolerance, and one with lower ability that requires more practice to achieve the desired target outcome. However, it is difficult to forecast if the target is going to be achieved applying only the results from the early stage of the learning process. Moreover, there are problems determining learning process tendencies due to differences in trainees' abilities to learn the aspects of machine tool operations and the large variances in target workpiece sizes obtained from the training results. Therefore, this paper proposes a classification method for tendencies in the learning process in an attempt to develop a training method that matched the trainee's results. Using the Maharanobis-Taguchi System, it is possible to calculate a forecast for learning situations by evaluating the first half of repeated training. This method is applied to a practical case and the effectiveness of the method is indicated.

urpose: This paper aims to develop a total quality management (TQM) model based on the Deming prize criteria extracted from the Deming Prize. The proposed model is aligned with the school education context and deployed with the goal of achieving school excellence. Design/methodology/approach: The model is developed based on a literature review in which key concepts for formulating the criteria and sub-criteria were identified. A qualitative research approach is applied to validate the model’s effectiveness. Interviews and feedback from an international school in Japan which adopted the model are used to determine its impact. Findings: The model emphasises the achievement of school objectives (A) by implementing TQM activities (B) and assessing their impact (C). Its implementation offers enhanced organisational ability and the achievement of society-oriented school objectives. The findings show that the model gives clarity to TQM application and offers benefits for schools’ future sustainability. Originality/value: This research proposes the adoption of a TQM model for educational institutions based on Deming criteria. Based on a comparison with prescriptive models such as Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and ISO 9001, this study shows how the developed model ensures organisational ability in current practice and future growth towards school excellence. Through the formulation of society-oriented school objectives and their linkage with results, it enables schools to create a balanced recognition of important stakeholders and gain consensus in realising the school’s objectives.