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Title: Private rapid response fire and rescue unit RESC-U commercial viability
Contributors: Tony M. Messer (author), Raymond Cox (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Resource companies in Canada operate in remote locations, often hours away from the closest municipality where emergency services such as police, fire and emergency medical services are located. People and equipment use low grade roadways to travel in and out of these locations and deal with the risks of incidents occurring. When an incident such as a motor vehicle collision does occur, the patient can be trapped in the wreckage for hours with no protection from the elements waiting for rescuers to arrive and provide critical interventions. Similarly, tank truck leaks and wildfires that start small can grow in size and severity without quick response actions from trained responders utilizing the appropriate equipment. We will investigate the frequency and severity of these and other incidents occurring in remote locations where resource companies are expanding into and evaluate whether the risks justify the commercial viability of a new service delivery. By analyzing the costs of these incidents to the resource companies in terms of injuries to humans and wildlife, environmental impact and also company reputation, we will see if there is a need for providing a more rapid response model. If the service is indeed justified, at what price point does it become palatable to the resource companies as they weigh the pros and cons of taking on additional costs. Our research will ask the question of the companies and then see if that pricing model will provide sufficient revenue to cover the costs to provide the service and provide a reasonable return on investment for the service provider. Some of the metrics used for the financial analysis will be payback periods to recoup the capital outlay, internal rates of return on the capital investment, and the net present value of the future revenues that are projected to be generated. At the conclusion of the study we can make an informed decision as to whether this venture is truly a wise investment of time, money, and manpower or if the return on investment is not worth the
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:08:14.814Z

Title: Engaging success: a qualitative analysis of the prospective benefits of implementing gainsharing in British Columbia's pulp and paper industry
Contributors: Angela Horianopoulos (author), Steven Cronshaw (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This qualitative analysis examines the effects of gainsharing on both productivity and employee engagement in the British Columbia pulp and paper industry. The pulp and paper industry plays an important role in the provincial economy by contributing four billion dollars annually and employing over 10,000 workers in high-pay unionized jobs. However, the industry has seen a significant decline in the past ten years in the number of facilities operating, which has reduced employment and ultimately tax revenue in the province. The economic importance of the pulp and paper industry highlights the need for unions and management to work together. Management must engage the human capital of its employees in order to achieve a competitive advantage in the global market. Gainsharing is a means to increase productivity more importantly, it is a method of facilitating a cooperative relationship between unions and management. This cooperative relationship not only increases productivity, but also significantly reduces labour relations costs while promoting a sense of satisfaction, loyalty and commitment within the employees. In this project, I develop a model explicitly outlining the impact of gainsharing within the pulp and paper industry. I test the model by reviewing and summarizing existing literature. The results are strongly supportive of the positive impact of gainsharing on productivity, reduced labour relations costs, employee engagement and profitability. I present recommendations for the application for government involvement, which can contribute to the success of this process, thus contributing to the success of the pulp and paper industry. --P. 2.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:08:33.351Z

Title: Supply chain management for pharmacy services in the Northern Health Authority
Contributors: Kirsten Thomson (author), Balbinder Deo (Thesis advisor), Cameron Egli (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The Northern Health Authority, a healthcare region located in northern British Columbia, executed a case study to analyze the current distribution relationship between G.R. Baker Hospital Pharmacy in Quesnel, B.C. and Prince George Regional Hospital Pharmacy. The purpose of the study was to examine the organizational structure, personnel relationships, and business processes that exist between the two facilities, in order to determine which processes in the current distribution network are working well, and to learn which areas require improvement. In order to complete the case study, a brief questionnaire was sent to G.R. Baker Hospital Pharmacy staff to glean further insight into the positive and negative factors of the service they currently receive. Further interviews were conducted with the Pharmacy Manager at G.R. Baker Hospital Pharmacy to determine satisfaction levels with the services provided. Finally, an observation of shipping practices was conducted to analyze the time and cost requirements for providing such service. The study resulted in the identification of several factors that are working well within the distribution relationship between G.R. Baker Hospital Pharmacy and Prince George Regional Hospital Pharmacy, particularly with respect to the provision of pre-packaged and convenience packaged products. The study also identified problem areas, primarily with respect to the limitations on the number of days per week for ordering, and the early cut-off times required by Prince George Regional Hospital Pharmacy. The primary recommendation resulting from this case study is to use this case as a building block for subsequent studies into the provision of drug distribution services and the establishment of distribution relationships with other regional facilities, leading to more efficient supply chain management and better utilization of limited resources.--P.ii-iii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:17:17.911Z

Title: Ups and downs: creating a culture of engagement at a small airline
Contributors: Rod Hayward (author), Rick Tallman (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: An airline, whether large or small, relies on a vast array of talents and skills to operate successfully. With such a variety of goals and objectives, sometimes it is difficult for employees to see how their contribution affects the success of the company. As a result, employees may just 'go about the motions' of their job without being actively engaged in the process. Fostering engagement in an airline presents some unique challenges, such as those derived from the conflicts between diverse work groups and the intensely competitive nature of the aviation industry. This paper explores several areas regarding employee engagement. First, it examines a variety of engagement definitions and the benefits of engagement. Next, it explores the concept of relational coordination. Finally, the paper examines the six drivers of workplace engagement and the six high performance work practices that support relational coordination. A plan for creating a workplace environment, which supports employee engagement, is presented at the end of this document, as a result of combining the information learned about employee engagement and relational coordination with the author's knowledge of a small airline. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:06:50.171Z

Title: BRIC and Canada's dependence: impact of manufacturing costs
Contributors: Kristoffor E. Benson (author), Pei Shao (Thesis advisor), Zaidong Dong (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Brazil, Russia, India, and China together form the BRIC group of developing economies and are experiencing growth much greater than both the G7 and world as a whole. All four countries have significant ties to Canadian business and through the process of this project we will look at how our economic landscape is affected by their growth. The focus of this project will be on the manufacturing sector and how the rising cost of labour in the BRIC will affect Canadian producers and manufacturers. The research performed notes the increased cost of labour has reduced the benefits for Canadian companies to offshore their manufacturing requirements and goes on to demonstrate that this cost will exceed that of onshore manufacturing by 2025. Recommendations are made for the producers, manufacturers, and Canadian governments to both mitigate this risk and take advantage of the BRIC's growing economies. Primarily, these recommendations are focused on the onshoring of manufacturing. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:05:17.119Z

Title: BID Group of Companies: selecting a strategic location for expansion to the south eastern United States
Contributors: Kane Kelly (author), Rick Tallman (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The owners of the BID Group of Companies (BID) want to establish a manufacturing operation within the high growth southern United States (US) sawmilling industry. The purpose of this project was to gain an overall understanding of the southern US in order to determine the best strategic location and the best mode of entry. A major challenge was determining where the industry was situated within this vast geographical area. A detail map of the southern US sawmill industry was developed to obtain a better understanding of the market concentration. This mapping exercise indicated that the top four states to consider for expansion were Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. In terms of entry mode, analysis indicated that buying and refurbishing an existing building was the most economical choice due to the high availability of affordable commercial real estate compared to the substantially higher costs to build new. The best building choice from each state was selected and examined against a top ten criteria of preferred attributes of both the building and the surrounding amenities. This process resulted in the recommendation of the building located in St. George, SC. The physical attributes of the St. George building combined with the amenities of the surrounding Dorchester County indicate that this is the right building in the right location and should contribute greatly to the success of BID's expansion into the southern US. --Leaf i.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-03-29T17:24:27.151Z

Title: Marketing strategies to successfully sell voice over internet protocol to mainstream Canadian markets
Contributors: Morris Ivan Bodnar (author), Patrick Mann (Thesis advisor), Rick Tallman (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: No abstract available.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:13:29.422Z

Title: Small business entry into international markets
Contributors: Dawna Buckman (author), Waqar Haque (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Small businesses encounter problems unique to their size, limited resources and infrastructure while academic literature is limited on their challenges of globalization and partnership issues. They are often owned by equal partners, creating additional complications. Finding a suitable international strategy for growth and diversification as well as understanding practical business solutions for global operations are key variables to guide the decision process. A literature review and analysis of the international experiences of a small Canadian company were conducted to identify risks and resources for global market strategies. This investigation revealed that small companies should capitalize on network and alliance opportunities to gain access to international markets, and consider exporting to test market environments. Good leadership will provide a successful international strategy that fits the small business operations and the company's strategy, while leveraging their core capabilities and competitive advantage into a global niche strategy. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:04:24.747Z

Title: Strategies for campus sport centre funding
Contributors: Craig Langille (author), Wootae Chun (thesis advisor), Kobby Owusu (committee member), Charles Scott (committee member), Cheryl Wallace (committee member), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Campus Sport Centres are important for university or college to retain and recruit student body, faculty, staff, and community memberships. It is important for these institutions to implement effective strategic plans that meet the needs of customers and stakeholders while remaining financially independent. The study determines how a campus sport centre can become financially self-sustaining without the need of government funding to support the operations of the facility while delivering value to its customers and stakeholders. The study used the Charles Jago Northern Sport Centre (CJNSC) of the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) as the case organization. The strategic priority for the CJNSC is to become a financially self-sustaining facility to cover costs associated with its aging facility. Through the review of secondary data and some primary data, the study identified eight key revenue streams that could be implemented by the CJNSC. These include; 1) increases to the percentage of UNBC student recreation and fitness fees that the CJNSC receives, 2) increased fees to programming and memberships, 3) forming strategic alliances, 4) space utilization, 5) sport tourism planning with seasonality of facility booking space, 6) cancellation fees for memberships, 7) a membership pricing strategy, 8) naming rights. It was determined through the case organization that reducing expenses would not have the long-term benefit for the CJNSC and only existing and new revenues would satisfy the goal of being financially self-sustaining. This information is provided through an integrative framework that could be used as a template or tool by other organizations of similar structure and system as the CJNSC to develop their sports centers for successful outcomes.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2020-08-18T22:19:04.862Z

Title: Assessing risk and profitability of Islamic banks: a comparison between Islamic and conventional banks in the Gulf Cooperation Council
Contributors: Eman Alturaiki (author), Raymond Cox (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This is a study on assessing the risk and profitability associated with Islamic bank investments and operations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries for three years from 2009 to 2011. It is mainly focused on measuring risk and profitability by looking at stock returns, bond ratings and financial institution ratios. Stock returns of Islamic banks were analyzed and compared to stock returns of commercial banks in five countries. Credit ratings for all Islamic banks with issued bonds were compared to those of conventional banks. In addition, banking industry financial ratios were used to analyze the operations of two types of banks, with the sample including all listed banks. The study revealed that Islamic banks have higher average stock returns and slightly higher standard deviations, reflecting high returns and risks compared to conventional banks. After scaling ratings into numbers, the credit ratings were found to favor conventional banks, with an average rating of A- for long term investments and A-2 for short term investments. With regards to financial ratios, the t-test and F-test results showed that there were significant differences between the means of the two bank types. Return on equity, return on assets and deposit to equity ratios were in favor of conventional banks. Islamic banks had a higher equity to asset ratio, loan to deposit ratio and interest margin to earning assets. Finally, ' there is no significant difference between the two bank types' means with regards to coverage ratio, earning assets to asset ratio and market return on equity. --Leaf 1.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-03-29T17:19:30.503Z

Title: Gap analysis for the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters
Contributors: Marija Soklic (author), Steven Cronshaw (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The purpose of this research project was to determine the gaps, if any, between existing recruitment and retention practices of volunteer fire departments in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and best practices as assessed through a review of the relevant research literature. I was particularly interested in determining the motivations of people to join and stay in volunteer fire fighting, and in whether there were age differences in these motivations. I first conducted a review of the relevant research literature to locate previous studies conducted on this topic. The results of these studies helped to inform the interview methodology used in this research. I then interviewed fire chiefs from volunteer departments in the Fraser-Fort George Regional District, British Columbia, to determine what practices they are presently using to recruit and retain their firefighters, and whether they are using different procedures to recruit from younger and older age groups. Based on the background review of research literature and interviews conducted in this project, I make recommendations for the improvement of recruitment and retention strategies for volunteer fire departments in the RDFFG. --Leaf iii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-03-29T17:21:23.837Z

Title: Small to medium private enterprise: aligning shareholder, director and manager interests
Contributors: Duane Maki (author), Elizabeth Croft (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Research into the corporate governance practices of small to medium sized private enterprises has been limited, as most of the current literature has focused on larger public corporations. Spectrum Resource Group Inc. (Spectrum) was utilized as the partner company in conducting this research, analysis and recommendations. The research focused on family, private, small to medium sized enterprises and employee owned companies to act as a foundation to analyze and compare to Spectrum's existing structure. This project focuses on the shareholder, director, manager relationships and the associated agency issues and costs. Furthermore, the project focuses on aligning appropriate incentives for different management levels considering both owner-managers and non-owner managers. Lastly, this research results in recommendations about the appropriate size, context and scope of board structures and director alignment. Overall it was found that incentives need to correspond to the type of job that is performed smaller boards have significant advantageous over larger boards, and finally, that the positions of shareholder, director and manager need to be clearly delineated. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:04:46.919Z

Title: Evaluating investment in real estate projects
Contributors: Mohammed Ghane (author), Ajit Dayanandan (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This study demonstrates the application of a financial model to evaluate the expected return from investing in real estate projects. Based on the analytical framework which is widely adopted in the market, the study examines the dynamics of supply and demand in the space and asset markets and its impact on valuation of real assets in Canada. The study presents a financial and market analysis for the hypothetical project using actual data of real estate properties close to Vancouver in British Columbia. The valuation is based on the fact that real estate provides potential future cash flow for investors, similar to any other asset in the capital market. The study also links the empirical results of this valuation with the supply and demand theory in order to understand the boom and bust that happened in real estate during the last few years. The analysis shows that the high increase in property prices in 2003-2007 has led to a sharp reduction in cap rates which has a great impact on lowering investor returns from real estate properties. The study concludes that the current rent level is below the long-term equilibrium and, therefore, holding a property for rent does not meet the expected return criteria. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:09:10.011Z

Title: Conflict, styles of conflict resolution, stress and job satisfaction amongst veterinary healthcare workers in clinical settings
Contributors: Deborah L. Kalyn (author), Rick Tallman (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This project looks at sources of stress and conflict, styles of conflict resolution and their outcomes in veterinary healthcare workers. An on-line survey was developed and sent to veterinary hospitals. Results included: Positive correlation between task and relationship conflict Positive correlation between conflict and avoiding, dominating and obliging styles of conflict resolution - Negative correlation between job satisfaction and stress - Negative correlation between job satisfaction and an avoiding style of conflict resolution and a positive correlation between job satisfaction and an integrating style of conflict resolution - Positive correlation between job satisfaction and intent to stay with both the current employer and the occupation. It is hoped this research can be used as a starting point to open dialogues about sources of stress and conflict, differing styles of conflict resolution and their benefits in terms of improved job satisfaction, decreased stress and intent to leave. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:07:43.407Z

Title: An analysis of earnings management: A comparison of seven countries.
Contributors: Zhijian He (author), Raymond Cox (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This article examines the systematic differences in earnings management including the possible impact of cross-country differences in culture on earnings management in seven countries: India, Hong Kong (China), Japan, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. A set of traditional financial variables (firm performance, business cycles) and cultural variable (Uncertainty Avoidance, Individualism, Power Distance) were used to test the hypotheses developed in this paper. Regression results indicate both the traditional financial variables and cultural variables can explain the choices of accounting accruals in different countries when the Jones Model serves as a dependent variable. Also, the Jones Model provides the most statistical explanatory power in the regression model on the international level. This paper's primary contribution to the existing literature is the thorough analysis of discretionary accruals and their relationship to traditional financial variables and cultural variable using a large data set. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-03-30T17:12:59.027Z

Title: Economic impact of sporting events using the case of 2015 Canada Winter Games
Contributors: Miranda Kynoch (author), Ajit Dayanandan (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Economic Impact studies have been a popular research topic among Economists. These studies look at the direct, indirect and induced effect of hosting or bidding on sporting, cultural or other events. This paper identifies a few of the more popular methodologies for conducting an economic impact study as well as the benefits, drawbacks and reasons for using each method. As well, an economic impact assessment of the 2015 Canada Winter Games is carried out using 2 methods. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:04:40.575Z

Title: The Port of Prince Rupert: opportunities and challenges for small business in BC's northern corridor
Contributors: Kelly McCormack (author), Paul Bowles (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The Port of Prince Rupert development (the port), located in BC's Northwest corner and part of Canada's Pacific Gateway Strategy, has stimulated great promise for economic prosperity for Canada, British Columbia, and BC's Northern Corridor (the corridor). Research indicates that small business is a significant contributor to the economic health of the province, regions, and communities in BC. This project seeks to identify if there are specific opportunities for small business and the communities in which they reside in relation to the port. A literature review and focus-group conducted in Smithers, BC as part of this research concludes that there is currently little direct economic opportunity for small business and communities in BC's Northern Corridor related to the Port of Prince Rupert development. The research reveals, however, that critical support resources and collaboration with proponents of CN Rail and the Prince Rupert Port Authority could provide communities and small businesses with prospects for economic development. --P. ii.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:07:09.502Z

Title: Succession planning and exit strategy: creating a feasibile exit strategy for Northern Printers & Stationers
Contributors: Corrin L. Peet (author), Elizabeth Croft (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Succession planning in small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) is no longer a macro economical problem. SMEs that are expected to sell within the next five to ten years employ over 2 million Canadians and account for roughly 15% of the GDP. As many SME owners reach the common age of retirement, many do not have anyone to sell their businesses to. This project will argue that many times the solution is within the company, and that with proper planning the owner can realize his or her return on investment by selling to the top management team. A literature review was conducted to understand the how to create a team that an owner can trust to manage his business, and then to analyze the step-by-step processes of initiating and completing a management buy-out. This project uses a case study of a local company to create a physical example of what type of company might see the most success from a management buy-out, and how that company should go about initiating one. It concludes by examining the ideal positions for the successful management team, how the debt structure may theoretically look, and what the implications will likely be for the vendor and the management team. --Leaf 2.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:04:44.839Z

Title: Factors that predict employee retention in traditional pulp and paper mills facing labour shortages using a statistical model
Contributors: Tyrone Robert McWhannel (author), Steven Cronshaw (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This empirical study examines factors which affect employee attrition in the British Columbia pulp and paper mill industry. Although no new pulp mills have been built in BC for decades, they are complex technical facilities that require a highly skilled work force. In the past ten years, 50% of those jobs have been lost in BC. New workers are less likely to consider joining an industry that is perceived to be in decline. In fact, pulp mills are experiencing high turnover and finding recruitment of skilled labour to be difficult. ... A survey was conducted using core questions based on existing job satisfaction research. The survey results provide rankings and correlations of employee intention to remain factors within a British Columbia pulp mill.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:14:22.326Z

Title: Key performance measures in the BC Sheriff Service
Contributors: Chris Nickerson (author), Steve Cronshaw (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This paper provides a mixed-method analysis of existing performance indicators in the provision of court security across Canada. In addition, it will provide recommendations on the development and implementation of performance metrics to the British Columbia Sheriff Service (BCSS) in the provision of court security. BCSS is charged under provincial statute and regulation to provide security to all levels of the provincial justice system, including BC Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, and Provincial Court. This includes provision of security for all types of trials held in a wide variety of facilities in various locations across the province. The BCSS has several key performance indicators in place that are used by the organization to measure effectiveness in various business areas including financial, human resources, and vehicle utilization. There is not, however, established performance metrics currently used to monitor or report on the operational effectiveness in the provision of security services, a core area of business for BCSS.
Discipline: Business Administration
Date added: 2017-04-10T22:03:48.499Z

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