Digital Commons Network^™

Empirical Program Evaluation In Operations Management, Kai Tian

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

This dissertation focuses on advancing and applying empirical program evaluation methodologies in Operations Management (OM), defining it not as mere prediction but as rigorously establishing causal effects of interventions. Chapter 2 lays the theoretical groundwork, defining empirical program evaluation within OM, detailing its alignment with causal inference, and outlining both classical econometric techniques and emerging Causal Machine Learning (CML) approaches for mitigating endogeneity. Building on this foundation, Chapter 3 presents an empirical application, evaluating the causal impact of a customer targeting strategy using live-streaming advertisements, employing Propensity Score Matching (PSM) in conjunction with linear regression models to derive actionable insights …

Leveraging Data Analytics For Enchanced Economics Prediction: A Study Of Predictive Models And Economics Indicators, Janelle Rueda

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The purpose of this project is intended to investigate the lack of use of data analytics in predicting and managing the impacts of economic crises. This project investigates what economic key factors can be used to create a framework model and evaluate the effectiveness of the key economic indicator being tested as early warning signs. The project uses programs such as Excel, RStudio, and Tableau for the collection of historical data, and regression analysis to determine if certain economic indicators have a statistically significant correlation with GDP, that may help enforce systems in place to help us mitigate economic crises …

Network-Based Attacks In Cloud Computing In 2020-2024, Yaswanth Sai Manikanta Anguluri

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

As the use of cloud technologies has increased in the past five years, the number of network attacks is also increasing. During 2020 to 2024, there are lot of changes in cloud technologies which led to various network attacks in the cloud computing environments from 2020 to 2024. This study investigates the evolution of network-based attacks in cloud environments from 2020 to 2024. Data was collected from Kaggle website to analyze the trends of the evolution of network-based attacks. The research questions are: (Q1) How do the trends change in network-based attack from 2020 to 2024 and why? (Q2) Which …

Prescription For Progress: A Retention Plan To Heal The Dying Nurse Workforce, Margaret Curd

Senior Honors Theses

The United States is currently facing an unprecedented nursing shortage which stems from many variables, including a lack of clinical rotation sites for students, increased burnout among current nurses, and a growing retiring workforce. Rising nurse turnover rates negatively impact patient outcomes, which should concern all levels of management. One specific hospital facing such an impact is Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, Illinois. This thesis seeks to address their substandard staffing ratios in an extensive, holistic strategic retention plan. Metrics for proving the plan’s success are provided alongside a discussion of proper calculations for each.

Beyond The Paycheck: Crafting A Competitive Benefits Package In American For-Profit And Non-Profit Entities, Olufemi C. Akpona

Senior Honors Theses

This thesis explores the changing landscape of employee benefits and theorizes how benefits can further be formulated to appeal to the specific employee base in every for-profit and non-profit organization. An evaluation is given of common benefits offered in the United States as well as an evaluation of the legal, financial, ethical, and psychological dimensions of providing employee benefits. Finally, an example benefits package is presented in order to illustrate how an organization can provide unique benefits to recruit and retain employees in the communities they operate in.

Investigating Business Cybersecurity Vulnerability And Development Of An Application For Security Awareness Training Platform For Small And Medium-Sized Enterprises, Baijun (Jack Skywalker) Jiang

Senior Honors Theses

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly becoming prime targets for cybercriminals due to their limited IT expertise, inadequate cybersecurity investment, and insufficient security awareness training. The increasing sophistication of social engineering attacks are rendering traditional security awareness programs obsolete, as they fail to effectively promote behavior change. The proposed solution develops a software-based security awareness training program that integrates interactive activities, realistic scenarios, and gamified learning methods to engage employees and facilitate long-term behavioral change towards security awareness. Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed training program in real-world scenarios to measure its impact on …

Comparative Analysis Of Regression And Random Forest Models For Player Performance Prediction In The Mls, Joshua Clement Madeti

Senior Honors Theses

Advanced technology and analytics have transformed the world and have benefited several industries throughout, the sport industry being one of them. Data is constantly generated during sports and requires post-game or post-season analysis which is crucial to team and player success. In this paper, the researcher will focus on the impact of analytics on soccer and soccer players. With over three billion active fans, soccer is the most famous sport in the world yet, when it comes to analytics, it is lagging. The thesis includes a comparative study of multiple linear regression and random forest regression to explore whether these …

Dancing In The Digital Age: How Social Media Shapes The Commercial Dance Industry, Luke Lisowski

Honors College Theses

Social media has fundamentally transformed the commercial dance industry, reshaping how dancers establish careers, connect with industry professionals, and promote their artistry. This thesis examines the impact of social media platforms – such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube – on career growth by facilitating networking opportunities, increasing visibility, and redefining industry standards. The research explores how digital platforms have shifted the traditional pathways to success, enabling dancers to showcase their work independently while also creating challenges related to self-promotion, competition, and mental health.

Through a series of in-depth interviews with professional dancers and choreographers actively working in the industry, this …

Door - To - Door Summer Sales And Other Summer Employment: A Cost And Benefit Analysis, Jentrie Gilliland

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

Door-to-door summer sales is heavily marketed to college students, especially on university campuses in Utah. These employment options are marketed as having high financial rewards while giving students the opportunity to develop their professional skills. In this study, I examine whether these expected rewards are delivered and if door-to-door summer sales is a viable position for college students in comparison to other summer employment. Specifically, I focus on the financial benefits and skills gained from both job types as well as determinants for students who participate in door-to-door summer sales versus other summer employment. My findings indicate that there is …

Brand Media And Health Perceptions: A Thematic Analysis Of Generational Differences, Julie Irene Diaz

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This thesis explores the influence of brand identity and media on shaping evolving perceptions of health across generations. The three generations considered are Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. The initial hypothesis predicted the popular media and brands that each generation interacts with are most likely to influence their perception. Additionally, the health brands most popular with each generation would influence their overall health perception, based on the identity and values of the brand. A qualitative study was conducted using focus groups to gather data about health perceptions, brand identity, media influence, and holistic health. The findings suggest that individuals …

Diversity In Beauty Brand Marketing On Instagram: The Case Of Fenty Beauty, Julia K. Narh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Diversity in beauty brand marketing is increasingly important as platforms like Instagram shape consumer perceptions. This study analyzes how Fenty Beauty, MAC Cosmetics, and L’Oréal represent diversity, particularly skin tone, in their Instagram content, using source credibility theory and social identity theory. A content analysis was conducted to evaluate how visual elements relate to engagement, measured by likes, comments, and shares. Findings show that Fenty Beauty features more dark-skinned models than its competitors. However, posts with darker-skinned models do not receive higher engagement. Instead, factors like model attractiveness and hair type, especially curly hair, drive interaction. Although Fenty’s posts generally …

Ai For Sustainability In Appalachian Businesses: Challenges And Successes, Mariatu Mahmoud

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative study examines the perception of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how this technology can advance sustainable development in small businesses in Central Appalachia. Participants described how they leveraged AI-enabled technologies to address economic challenges as well as how they overcame the technological barriers often associated with emerging technologies. Findings reveal that AI can significantly improve efficiency, streamline workflows, and enhance visibility for Appalachian entrepreneurs. However, the research also highlights challenges, including trust issues, limited resources, and resistance to change, which hinder adoption. Results from this study produce strategies for adopting AI that enable small businesses to integrate innovation while …

Reframing Rudeness: Exploring Positive Reappraisal As A Pathway From Customer Incivility To Self-Efficacy, Justin S. Boyd

Graduate Theses and Dissertations (2019 - present)

Customer incivility is a persistent challenge for front-line employees (FLEs), often leading to adverse workplace outcomes. This research examined whether positive reappraisal can transform incivility into a source of growth. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory, the research explored how positive reappraisal mediates the relationship between customer incivility and two key forms of self-efficacy—regulatory emotional and workplace social—ultimately influencing job satisfaction. The moderating roles of perceived organizational support and trait mindfulness were also investigated.

A cross-sectional survey of 296 FLEs was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). More specifically, the results confirmed customer incivility positively predicts positive reappraisal. …

Role Of Retro Branding On A Consumer's Attitude Toward Products And Purchase Intentions, Cortnee Y. Bunch

Graduate Theses and Dissertations (2019 - present)

This paper proposes retro branding as a marketing strategy that can impact consumers’ attitudes towards retro-branded products and, ultimately, their purchase intentions. Evoked nostalgia, through retro branding, for hedonic and utilitarian products is explored to investigate the impact on attitudes towards the products for both product types and purchase intentions. Nostalgia proneness is examined as a moderator amongst the relationships between retro branding, attitude towards products (both utilitarian and hedonic), and purchase intentions. Additionally, age and gender are explored as possible boundary conditions that impact the purchase intentions. Results indicate that evoked nostalgia, through retro branding, enhances attitudes toward products, …

Assessing The Implicit Prices Of Health And Wellness Product Attributes In Pet Food: A Hedonic Analysis Approach, Lonnie Hobbs Jr., Andrew Anderson

Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Faculty Publications and Presentations

Here we examine product attributes present in dry dog food to show there exist potential price premiums and discounts associated with health and wellness attributes in dry dog food. The findings indicate price premiums are associated with attributes related to digestion and allergy care. Pricing discounts are found to be associated with immune support and dental attributes. The results of this study are anticipated to be a starting point for more sophisticated and dynamic analysis of pricing and willingness-to-pay studies in the pet food industry.

Predicting Late Deliveries In International Healthcare Logistics Using Machine Learning Models, Jeevan Sai Gali

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The healthcare supply chain plays a pivotal role in ensuring the timely delivery of essential medical supplies, particularly during global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this critical system is often plagued by inefficiencies and disruptions caused by factors such as inadequate infrastructure, natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, and variability in vendor performance. These challenges underscore the need for advanced methodologies to enhance supply chain resilience and operational efficiency. This culmination experience project explores the integration of machine learning models and external variables, such as the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), to optimize lead-time predictions and mitigate risks in global healthcare …

Understanding Household Financial Stability: Examining The Effects Of Inflation And Income, Cyndy E. Gutierrez-Fierros

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study aims to investigate the impact of inflation on US household financial stability from 2013 to 2023. As inflation rises, individuals’ purchasing power erodes leading to influence economic behaviors. Behaviors such as spending, saving, and borrowing should be a priority concern in the US economy. Results of this study reveal that inflation does not affect financial well-being and its direct impact on household stability is statistically weak. Regression testing shows that income emerges as the most significant factor. Most noticeably income influences savings and debt management in a positive way. As per these results, economic policies should be focused …

Razorback Analytics And Consulting: Driving Innovation, Clayton J. Chapman

Accounting Undergraduate Honors Theses

Under the identity of Razorbacks Analytics and Consulting, a consultation company, recommendations are made into the future of the vehicle manufacturing industry. Based on financial statement and industry data, Razorbacks Analytics and Consulting advises manufacturers about the uncertainty and high cost of transitioning vehicle lineups to electric powertrains. Recommendations are made based upon the observed data. Topics include: basic ratios, industry timing, supply chain issues, profitability, risk, and consumer issues.

Emotion Analysis And Topic Modelling Of Supply Chain Discussion During The Covid-19 Pandemic, Suhong Li, Fang Chen, Thomas Ngniatedema

Information Systems and Analytics Department Faculty Journal Articles

This study aims to investigate the supply chain discussion during the COVID-19 pandemic using the supply chain tweets collected between March 2020 and May 2022 globally. The findings reveal an evolving sentiment trajectory: while the users’ sentiment remained neutral in 2020 and 2021, a negative sentiment surged starting in January 2022. Moreover, an emotion analysis indicates a mix of sadness and optimism among Twitter users, with anger gradually intensifying from June 2021 onward. Furthermore, topic modeling reveals distinct themes discussed each year. In 2020, major topics centered around the government’s response to COVID-19, food and medical supply chain crises. By …

Understanding Employee Performance In Technology-Mediated Environments, William Patrick Malloy

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this qualitative flexible design single case study was to expand the understanding of the dynamics behind performance management in technology-mediated environments and the effect it has on organizational outcomes. Managers in technology-mediated environments struggle to exercise control due to the inadequacy of existing performance management tools designed for traditional settings, which are not adequate in remote and hybrid work contexts. The study was conducted using a constructivist paradigm and a single-case study research design, employing semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and archival data analysis. Data from all sources were coded using NVivo, applying first- and second-cycle coding processes …

The Effects Of Micromanagement Behavior On Employee Turnover Intention In Hybrid And Remote Work Environments, Christopher S. Mendoza

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The existing literature extensively documents the prevalence of micromanagement in traditional organizational structures. However, there is a notable gap in research regarding its impact on daily operations within non-traditional work environments, such as hybrid and remote settings. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between micromanagement and turnover intention in these evolving workplace models. A sample of 25 participants who had experienced micromanagement in hybrid and remote work environments was selected for this study, with no additional selection criteria imposed. Findings indicated that 24 participants experienced declines in morale, directly contributing to increased turnover intention. Furthermore, financial …

Beyond The Finish Line: How Mindset And Setbacks Shape Future Success Of High School Sprinters, Hannah L. Lybbert

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

How does mindset shape sports performance? Using data from high school track and field 100- meter sprint times, I examine how exogenous psychological shocks—caused by running faster or slower than expected due to tailwinds or headwinds—influence subsequent athletic performance. By leveraging instrumental variable analysis and random wind variation, I isolate the purely psychological effects (referred to throughout this paper as “mindset effects”) of performance confidence. I parse out the sustained mindset effects, taking into account athlete-specific fixed effects, and estimate mindset-driven performance effects. In the discussion, I will explore “perceived self-efficacy” (PSE) as a potential mechanism by which these mindset …

Untapped Potential: Many Intelligent Female Accountants Are Not In The Workforce, Heidi Sundberg

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

As the shortage of accountants in the U.S. continues to increase, it is crucial to examine what barriers are keeping women from remaining in the workforce. This research project focuses on women in accounting, especially mothers, and what changes can be made so that they are more likely to continue pursuing career growth, instead of becoming stay-at-home moms. This report focuses on what barriers women in Utah’s accounting profession face when trying to get promotions while fulfilling family commitments and how their perspectives differ from those of their management.

The basis of this research was done through a survey that …

Meet The Mda’S New President, Cheri Newman, Dds, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This cover story introduces the new president of the MDA, Dr. Cheri Newman, highlighting her unique journey from dental hygienist to dentist. Dr. Newman discusses her motivations for becoming involved with the MDA, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the profession and the influence of mentors. She outlines her goals for the upcoming year, which include increasing membership, addressing workforce shortages, and tackling student debt. Dr. Newman also stresses the significance of member involvement in organized dentistry and acknowledges the challenges related to workforce issues like the need for more dental hygienists and assistants. She underscores the value of …

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association is published digitally each month through ADA Commons, reaching 166 countries and accumulating over 35,800 downloads. This extensive reach provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry, our state's oral health community, and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It serves as the main publication for connecting with Michigan dentists.

The May issue features:

• An informative interview with Dr. Cheri Newman, the MDA’s new president.
• A feature article from Delta Dental on the utilization of dental services pre- and post-COVID-19 and how the continuing decline in the utilization of restorative services may impact plan design. …

Staff Matters: Understanding And Implementing The Earned Sick Time Act, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s "Staff Matters" column provides a summary of the recent amendments to the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) in Michigan, which brought significant changes just as the original effective date approached. It clarifies the effective dates for different employer sizes, with small employers (10 or fewer employees) having an extended deadline of October 1, 2025. The article outlines key changes related to structuring time banks, policy revisions, and required employee notifications. It also mentions free resources and tools available through HRM Services and a revised MDA Staff Matters® Sample Employee Handbook to aid in ESTA compliance.

Mda Foundation: Lead Leads To A Key Role On The Mda Foundation, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article highlights the role of the MDA Foundation in providing opportunities for professional development and expanding the impact of dentists' careers. It focuses on Dr. Beth Rosenberg's experience, who became a Foundation Board Member after participating in the MDA's Leadership Exploration and Development Program (LEAD).

The LEAD program builds leadership skills through immersion in organized dentistry. The Foundation raises funds through various events to provide scholarships to dental students and grants to community organizations that improve access to care. The article encourages MDA members to participate in Foundation fundraisers and to consider volunteering or donating.

Toward A Dynamic View Of Corporate Purpose, Dorothy S. Lund

Faculty Scholarship

Scholars debating the corporation’s role in society generally advance the view that there is only one desirable orientation for corporations and their management. Specifically, proponents of a stakeholder governance model contend that focusing management on a broad set of corporate constituents maximizes overall welfare, while advocates of a shareholder-centric directive counter that prioritizing shareholders creates social welfare by rendering the firm most profitable. This Article offers another view: It suggests that the welfare-maximizing purpose for corporations could change depending on external economic conditions, which both of these positions assume away. Specifically, shareholder primacy is likely to promote welfare in a …

The Effect Of Financial Literacy On Firm Performance, Erwin Joseph

Doctoral Dissertations (DBA)

This study examines the influence of financial literacy on firm performance by integrating state-level financial literacy data with firm-level metrics including Market Capitalization, Tobin’s Q, ROA, ROE, and EBIT. Utilizing data from the National Financial Capability Study (NFCS) and COMPUSTAT for the years 2009 to 2024, and a sample size of 100,126 observations, it highlights how higher levels of financial literacy correlate with improved firm valuation and profitability. The study employs the Financial Literacy Index and its imputed counterpart using the Fully Conditional Specification (FCS) method to address missing data. Regression analyses reveal that financial literacy significantly impacts both valuation …

Caterpillar Strategic Audit, Tyler Vander Woude, Grant Kingston, Kaiden Bedient, Drew Shafer

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

This strategic audit evaluates Caterpillar Inc.'s business-level and corporate-level strategies, examining how the company maintains its competitive advantage in the heavy machinery and industrial equipment sectors. The research focuses on Caterpillar's hybrid approach, combining differentiation and cost leadership strategies to offer high-quality, durable products while optimizing costs through technological innovation, supply chain efficiencies, and product longevity. The methodology for this audit includes a comprehensive internal and external analysis, incorporating frameworks such as SWOT, PESTEL, VRIO, and Porter’s Five Forces. Additionally, Caterpillar’s strategic initiatives in vertical and horizontal integration, governance structure, and financial performance were assessed. The research also explores the …