Strategy and Profitability: Managing Profits in Inflation Economy Mohamed Jaffar Mohamed Sharaaz Walden University
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Walden University College of Management and Technology This is to certify that the doctoral study by Mohamed Sharaaz has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Patricia Fusch, Committee Chairperson, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Dr. Peter Anthony, Committee Member, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Dr. Denise Land, University Reviewer, Doctor of Business Administration Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2016 Abstract Strategy and Profitability: Managing Profits in Inflation Economy by M.J.M.Sharaaz MBA, Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 2013 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2016 Abstract The inflation rate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) rose to 5-year highs in 2014 and higher by 28% in the first half of 2015. This situation has challenged business managers to sustain business goals. Guided by Kaplan and Norton’s balanced scorecard framework. the purpose of this multiple case study was to explore strategies business managers use to maintain profitability with rising operating costs. Two organizations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates were purposefully sampled for this multiple case study. Data were collected through multiple semistructured interviews of a single senior manager from each organization, then triangulated with company e-mails and focus group interviews of 2 junior managers from each of the organizations. All data were analyzed using a 5-phased cycle of compiling, disassembling, reassembling, interpreting, and concluding to understand the emerging patterns. The themes revealed cost reduction initiatives and revenue enhancements initiatives as the key strategies used by the business managers. The approach and direction used in these strategies showed variance based on cost and revenue drivers of the organizations. The findings of the study can be a guide for business managers to understand the essence of effective business strategies that counter challenging economic environments, thus sustaining profitability and developing additional employment opportunities for the surrounding community. Strategy and Profitability: Managing Profits in Inflation Economy by M.J.M.Sharaaz MBA, Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 2013 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2016 Dedication This study is dedicated to my wife, Tania, and daughter, Sakeena. Your patience, support, and sacrifices during my doctoral study were the strength and encouragement for me. Thank you with the fondest love. This achievement would not have been possible without you being with me. Acknowledgments Thank you, Dr. Patricia Fusch, my chair, for guidance, encouragement, and mentoring support extended during the journey. I would also like to thank Dr. Peter Anthony and Dr. Denise Land, my committee members, for their valuable and insightful feedback that enabled me to progress this journey with compliance. My sincere gratitude goes to Dr. Freda Turner for motivation and inspirations given, and I thank my family and friends, who have been extremely understanding and supportive during this period. You all have been part of my doctoral success and I would not have achieved this milestone without you. Table of Contents List of Tables ..................................................................................................................... iv Section 1: Foundation of the Study ......................................................................................1 Background of the Problem ...........................................................................................1 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................2 Purpose Statement ..........................................................................................................3 Nature of the Study ........................................................................................................4 Research Question .........................................................................................................5 Interview Question .........................................................................................................5 Focus Group Interview Questions .......................................................................... 6 Conceptual Framework ..................................................................................................7 Definition of Terms........................................................................................................7 Assumptions, Limitations, and Delimitations ................................................................8 Assumptions ............................................................................................................ 8 Limitations .............................................................................................................. 9 Delimitations ........................................................................................................... 9 Significance of the Study .............................................................................................10 Contribution to Business Practice ......................................................................... 10 Implications for Social Change ............................................................................. 10 A Review of the Professional and Academic Literature ..............................................11 Balanced Scorecard ............................................................................................... 12 i Strategies for Sustaining Profitability ................................................................... 14 Operating Cost and Business Profitability ............................................................ 15 Cost Reduction Strategies ..................................................................................... 21 Revenue Enhancement Strategies ......................................................................... 32 Conceptual Framework and Existing Knowledge ................................................ 48 Transition and Summary ..............................................................................................51 Section 2: The Project ........................................................................................................53 Purpose Statement ........................................................................................................53 Role of the Researcher .................................................................................................54 Participants ...................................................................................................................55 Research Method and Design ......................................................................................56 Method .................................................................................................................. 57 Research Design.................................................................................................... 59 Population and Sampling .............................................................................................60 Ethical Research...........................................................................................................64 Data Collection Instruments ........................................................................................65 Data Collection Technique ..........................................................................................67 Data Organization Techniques .....................................................................................70 Data Analysis ...............................................................................................................70 Reliability and Validity ................................................................................................73 Reliability .............................................................................................................. 73 ii Validity ................................................................................................................. 74 Transition and Summary ..............................................................................................75