Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Horizon Scanning: Futurology(Unniversity of Bath, 2023-09-04) BAKHASHWAIN, FAISAL; DE SA FIALHO, GUILHERME CALAIS GRILO; SENTHILKUMAR, PRAVEEN; SUN, SHUSHEN; NAGVEKAR, TANAY; ZHOU, XUAN; HAASZ, ANDYBMT's service covers many products and consulting services, with business spread across the globe, thus possessing a solid market position. However, it simultaneously faces inherent risks tackled through scenario planning. BMT faces a problem which is a slow and often inconsistent futurology process. The aim is to optimise this practice, offering a faster and more consistent solution. Futurology is the activity of overlooking the future, in efforts to prepare for dynamic changes. Scenario planning is a futurology tool that creates pictures of current trends to predict future states. Academic scenario planning frameworks can be divided into two areas: those that base scenarios on key drivers and those that don’t. The trade-off between them is consistent, so the team has incorporated ideologies from both types within the proposed framework. Findings from existing frameworks showed that two of the best processes are Shell and the UK Gov. toolkit. Therefore, factors from both are integrated into the proposed framework. The proposed framework has been divided into three main areas, enabling a more targeted and methodical approach, and ensuring that all relevant factors are considered. Challenge assessment pairs technology with potential challenges. The pair analysis evaluates whether a pair is feasible to enter the next stage, which saves time as it eliminates unnecessary items. Finally, devising scenarios serves as the scenario-building stage. 1. Challenge assessment a. SCAMPER: a creativity tool that guides the critical analysis of technology. b. Sector tree: aids in predicting technology transformation. c. Delphi: synthesizes expert opinions through iterative rounds of questionnaires. 2. Pair analysis: utilises a scoring table to evaluate pairs. 3. Devising scenarios a. Cross-Impact method: a comprehensive and structured tool, however the lacking creativity and time-efficiency. b. 4 Questions: the intermediate choice regarding tool trade-off. c. Scenario archetypes: a creative and time efficient tool, however lacking comprehensiveness. However, upon usage, it was discovered that the process was still quite slow. Henceforth, the process was fully digitalised, to decrease time and increase engagement. This resulted in two deliverables: an explanatory word handbook and a digital guidebook. This proposal has proven to save 50% of BMT’s time during their scenario planning process while producing similar/better results. Moreover, this framework is expected to maximise engagement and consistency, optimising decision-making.23 0Item Restricted Assessing Disaster Preparedness Among SRCA Emergency Medical Services Personnel in Saudi Arabia(University of Portsmouth, 2024-11-14) Aldhilan, Ahmed; Solana, CarmenPrehospital Emergency Medical Services (EMS) play a critical role in disaster response, particularly in regions prone to various hazards, such as Saudi Arabia. This study evaluates the readiness and effectiveness of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) workforce in disaster response, focusing on regional variations, skill competencies response strategies, and identifying potential areas for improvement. The research utilised a mixed-methods approach, including a quantitative questionnaire completed by 259 SRCA personnel and qualitative interviews with key management figures. The findings reveal significant strengths in basic emergency response skills such as First Aid and CPR, especially among more experienced personnel. However, notable gaps were identified in inter-agency coordination and awareness of certain disaster risks, such as earthquakes and terror attacks. Additionally, regional disparities in disaster preparedness were observed, with some areas, like Jazan and Asir, demonstrating higher confidence levels, while others, such as Tabuk and Makkah, indicated lower preparedness. These findings underscore the need for targeted training, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and region-specific disaster management strategies. The study concludes that while experience significantly enhances individual preparedness, comprehensive disaster management requires a broader focus on collaborative efforts and tailored interventions across all regions. Further research is recommended to expand these findings and support the ongoing improvement of disaster preparedness within the SRCA and similar organizations.24 0Item Restricted Novel Approaches to the Assessment and Management of Granulomatous Lymphocytic Interstitial Lung Disease (GLILD)(University College London, 2024) Bintalib, Heba; Hurst, John; Burns, SiobhanIntroduction: Granulomatous-lymphocytic interstitial lung disease (GLILD) is generally considered a manifestation of systemic immune dysregulation occurring in up to 20% of people with common variable immunodeficiency disorders (CVID). GLILD is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and presents a significant diagnostic and management challenge. There is a lack of evidence-based guidelines of GLILD despite its clinical significance. This thesis aimed to bridge knowledge gaps, offering new insights and methods to improve GLILD assessment and management. Methods: Several methods are employed. First, an international research prioritization exercise was conducted based on methodology developed by the James Lind Alliance. Subsequently, a systematic review was undertaken to summarise the current literature on diagnostic approaches in GLILD. Additionally, a national data analysis focusing on non-infectious complications (NICs) in CVID patients with and without GLILD was conducted to assess the variation in clinical features and the risk factors associated with this condition. Moreover, a clinicians survey was conducted to evaluate the current practice regarding lung biopsy in the work up of GLILD. A retrospective analysis was undertaken to assess three treatment regimens at our centre. Finally, a prospective study was conducted to evaluate the utility of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) in GLILD. Results: The international research prioritization exercise identified key areas for future research. The systematic review suggested that high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and lung biopsy were required for definitive diagnosis of GLILD, emphasizing the need for standardized diagnostic criteria. In the CVID cohort with NICs, chronic lung diseases, particularly GLILD, were predominant, with lymphadenopathy associated with GLILD. The clinician survey underscored the complexity of diagnosing GLILD and highlighted varied opinions on the necessity and effectiveness of lung biopsies. Treatment outcomes varied, with corticosteroids demonstrating inducing remission but presenting challenges in long-term management, while mycophenolate showed promise in disease stabilization and corticosteroid sparing. Functional assessments, particularly the 6MWT and the King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease (K-BILD) questionnaire, were valuable measures with good reproducibility in GLILD patients. Conclusion: This thesis contributes significantly to the understanding and management of GLILD in CVID. By addressing critical research priorities, elucidating diagnostic challenges, evaluating treatment modalities, and integrating functional assessments. Our findings inform clinical practice and guide future research. Ultimately, our efforts aim to improve patient outcomes and promote international collaboration.9 0Item Restricted THE CONTRIBUTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS TO THE GOVERNANCE PROCESS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN SAUDI ARABIA: A CASE STUDY ANALYSIS(University of Reading, 2024-07-24) Alnajran, Saqer; Kakabadse, AndrewThis qualitative research was undertaken through a case study to explore the contribution of council members of King Saud University (KSU) to their institutional strategy. It is the first study to consider the impact of governing body members of higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia. The study involved conducting 26 elite interviews with KSU council members and collecting 9 relevant documents. Through thematic analysis, the study elucidated how board members fulfill their responsibilities in alignment with KSU's strategic plan. Firstly, board members were identified as holding official positions that require role-based contribution and accountability. Secondly, the effective contribution of board members was facilitated by the use of technology through the KSU’s board portal Majales. Thirdly, the engagement of KSU council members at various decision-making levels, including the college council or equivalent level, in addition to the university council level, was found to positively influence the institutional strategy. Fourthly, the crucial role of the KSU president in enhancing collaborative efforts between the board and the institution to achieve strategic objectives was highlighted. Lastly, the efforts of KSU council members in developing new regulations and enforcing implementation compliance were essential in reflecting their contribution to realizing the objectives of KSU’s strategic plan. The study concludes by proposing a model that outlines the process through which board members contribute to their institutional strategy. The model emphasizes the importance of employing a distributed system of specialized experts in their respective roles to make an effective contribution. Additionally, it underscores the involvement of board directors in discussions at multiple levels within the institution contributing to the improvement of decision-making processes across the governance system. Furthermore, the model not only advances the understanding of governance and strategic dynamics within KSU but also provides valuable insights with broader applicability to higher education institutions.42 0Item Restricted A Sectorial Analysis of Municipal Water Consumption and Management(Universitat Politecnica De Valencia, 2023-11-15) Alhudaithi, Musaad Abdulaziz; Arregui de la Cruz, Francisco; Cobacho Jordan, RicardoThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undergoing substantial economic, industrial, commercial, and population growth. This growth, in turn, leads to increased water demand in the region. In addition to population growth, industrialization and modernization have placed increasing pressure on KSA’s water infrastructure. There is an urgent need to increase the water capacity to meet the projected demand and maintain the water systems' security and reliability. Therefore, it is imperative to find solutions that improve the efficiency of the Kingdom’s water system. A key element in this effort is understanding and classifying how water is consumed with its micro-components within various segments. The thesis aims to collect precise knowledge about municipal water consumption patterns and trends to understand water consumption patterns and consumer behaviors better and develop preliminary estimates and assumptions. This will drive the municipal water demand model in KSA to be capable of dealing with different scenarios and constraints. The development of the municipal water demand model highlighted the need for reliable statistical and water billing data. These form the starting point of the forecast and need to be available at a high enough resolution. The model provides a framework for the required data to be built on further. The analysis results will also determine the drivers and categories used in the model. The model focuses on the non-Residential water demand. Still, separate forecasts are included for the residential category to enable the extrapolation of the results and downward analysis for a more accurate and cost-effective bottom-up approach to forecasting and an overall better understanding of the population’s water consumption behaviors.2 0Item Restricted Constructing Women Leaders’ Identity in the Context of Saudi Higher Education(University of Aberdeen, 2024-04-02) Alqahtani, Tahani H.; Moonesirust, Elham.; Cai, JingThis qualitative research aims to investigate and understand the construction of leadership identities among female leaders in the context of Saudi Arabian academia, which is argued as an extreme case of gender inequality. By doing so, this research addresses a crucial gap in existing literature. While prior studies have predominantly focused on enumerating the challenges faced by Saudi female leaders, this research aims to delve deeper into how these women construct their leadership identities and navigate their roles amidst formidable obstacles. In order to address the main research question—namely, 'How do women construct their identity as leaders in leadership roles in the Saudi higher education sector, traditionally considered a ‘male domain’ in this context?'—this study employs a social constructionist approach. It integrates Giddens' Structuration Theory (agency-structure) with insights from feminist and gender studies. This theoretical lens acknowledges identity as a socially constructed phenomenon shaped by an individual's active interpretation and reflexive engagement within their social and cultural context, emphasising the role of agency in identity formation. Data for this research were gathered through semi-structured interviews with Saudi women leaders in Saudi higher education. A purposive sampling method selected 40 participants from three public universities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Thematic analysis was applied to analyse and interpret the collected data. The study delves into the intricate roles undertaken by Saudi women, with a particular emphasis on societal expectations related to their roles as mothers, wives, and housewives. It underscores how these societal norms often overshadow professional aspirations, resulting in restricted leadership opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia. The findings of this study shed light on how Saudi women construct their leadership identity through distinct approaches— namely, 'womanhood,' 'motherhood,' 'champion,' and 'diplomatic'. All four of these approaches, despite their differences, share a common objective: challenging societal resistance to women assuming leadership roles in the Saudi context. However, these leaders exhibit resistance and assert their agency in distinct ways. The first group, embracing 'womanhood' and 'motherhood' styles, tends to minimise resistance by aligning with societal expectations and fulfilling prescribed roles for Saudi women. These women recognise that the same system requiring them to embody the 'good Saudi woman'—who should be nice, obedient, and men's followers—is the one that allows them to be leaders, especially if their leadership style aligns with motherhood or womanhood. This strategy allows them to assume leadership roles with reduced social resistance by adhering to traditional norms, suggesting that not all Saudi female leaders perceive these norms as universally detrimental or obstructive. The second group, adopting 'champion' and 'diplomatic' styles, actively challenges societal expectations. They acknowledge substantial limitations imposed by men on female leaders in decision-making and influence. Even within these styles, these leaders operate within the confines of cultural, legal, and systemic constraints, avoiding actions that would exceed these boundaries. Therefore, it is apparent that a multitude of interactions exist between the agency of these women and the structures. This study meticulously identifies and delves into diverse forms of interaction. The first interplay attempts to normalise women's leadership through a variety of strategies. The second interplay attempts to undermine social structures that assert women should lack authority and power. On the other hand, there are interactions that form the most significant structure, which is women's subordination to men. Furthermore, the study also sheds light on the importance of several factors in influencing the leadership identities of Saudi women in higher education. These factors encompass their backgrounds, childhood and parental influences, different educational experiences, family support, and the organisational contexts in which leadership roles are assumed. Finally, this study contributes theoretically by enriching academic literature with a gender perspective, specifically focusing on the female viewpoint within Giddens' Structuration Theory. It not only addresses the existing gap in the literature regarding how Saudi women construct their leadership identities but also illuminates how they exercise agency as leaders, resist structural constraints, and explores the interplay between their agency and the structural context. Additionally, this study holds empirical significance by providing a 'thick description' of the lived experiences, background and challenges faced by Saudi women leaders. It dispels mistaken assumptions in the literature that promote 'one-size-fits-all stereotypes about Arab women' by delving into the unique cultural and societal context of Saudi Arabia, rather than making broad generalisations about the experiences of Saudi women.17 0Item Restricted The effect of HRM practices on the CSR integration into organisational culture: A study of the role of HR in developing a socially responsible culture .(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-09-28) Almatrafi, Ghadeer; Ali, BaharCorporate Social Responsibility (CSR) significance in an organisation has been rapidly growing for many years, acknowledging the imperative of addressing Environmental, Social, and Governance concerns in the strategies of business. CSR integration into organisational culture is necessary for sustainable competitive advantage, societal well-being, and stakeholder trust. Human Resource Management (HRM) practices wield a profound influence on the culture, and they can share the CSR principles integration. The empirical investigation on the interaction between CSR and HRM integration is scarce. The study filled the gap by exploring how HRM practices support and contribute to the integration of CSR into organisational culture. The study investigated HR's role in nurturing a socially responsible culture, uncovering key benefits and challenges, and underscoring the importance of aligning both HRM and CSR practices. The research also underscores the HR professional vital contributions and provides insights to foster a socially responsible culture that drives social impact and sustainability, enriching strategic, practical, and academic understandings in the process.35 0Item Restricted IS THE CONCEPT OF BIG DATA RELEVANT IN SUPPLY CHAIN LOGISTICS? A REVIEW(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-11-30) Alharbi, Shaykhah; Marina, PapalexiIn this era of unprecedented digital data generation spanning the past two decades, the concept of Big Data (BD) has emerged as a powerful phenomenon. This paradigm shift extends to the healthcare sector, where a plethora of data originates from diverse sources, including electronic patient records and medical equipment. Despite the growing interest in applying big data analytics (BDA) to supply chain management (SCM) from both academia and industry, its exploration within the healthcare domain remains limited. Unlike its counterparts in business and manufacturing, the healthcare supply chain has yet to fully realize the potential of BDA, leading to performance disparities and the underutilization of best practices. In response, this review endeavors to delve into the existing literature concerning the application of big data in the healthcare supply chain, aiming to discern its pertinence. Through meticulous filtering, 56 primary studies were meticulously scrutinized and categorized from an initial pool of 5,626, in pursuit of addressing four key research inquiries. The findings underscore the transformative potential of big data within healthcare, with procurement, demand forecasting, inventory management, logistics, and quality assurance emerging as prominent applications. This potential is nurtured by a conducive environment shaped by various facilitating factors, although certain inhibitory elements are also evident. By offering a comprehensive analysis of the literature, this study not only highlights the focal points of ongoing research but also establishes a bridge between theoretical understanding and practical implementation. It serves as a foundation for future research endeavors, shedding light on pivotal areas and paving the way for a deeper comprehension of these domains in practice.22 0Item Restricted Barriers and Facilitators of AI-Driven Tools in Healthcare Project Management in Saudi Arabia: An Exploratory Study.(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-12-11) Alyami, Khawlah; Pagano, RosaneThe aim of this research is to identify and analyse the primary barriers and facilitators that could influence the project management of healthcare AI initiatives in Saudi Arabia. By doing so, the study seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge and assist in formulating strategies and policies that can expedite the digital transformation process in the healthcare sector. The research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing semi-structured interviews and focus groups as tools for data collection. The participants included healthcare project coordinators and senior project leads with substantial experience in the field. The research aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by offering insights into the unique factors impacting AI technology adoption in the Saudi healthcare sector. Findings from the study identify strategic initiatives, skill development, and collaborations as central facilitators in the integration process. Simultaneously, data management challenges, ethical and regulatory concerns, stakeholder management, and risk management are recognized as significant barriers. The study offers specific recommendations to address these barriers, focusing on improving data security and compliance with regulations. This research serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders in the healthcare sector, providing actionable insights to advance the integration of AI tools in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030.42 0Item Restricted Finance Dissertation(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-12-01) Almousa, Abdulmajeed; ap Gwilym, OwainFinance Dissertation65 0