Graduate Theses

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A comparative analysis of the eﬀectiveness of advertising on TikTok and Facebook for acquiring customers"
(2024) Lourd Nathan, Leucadio; Colorado, Camilo; Mantel, Peter; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: This study investigates the effects of COVID-19 on job retention and employee satisfaction, focusing on remote work models. It aims to examine trends in different national contexts, evaluate challenges in remote work settings, and recommend strategies to enhance job satisfaction and support employee well-being in the post- COVID era. The research employs a secondary qualitative research method, utilizing the research onion approach. It adopts interpretivism philosophy, an inductive approach, and an exploratory design. Data collection involves analysing pre-existing studies, including journals and articles, to gather insights on remote work, job retention, and employee satisfaction. The study reveals that remote work has significantly transformed the employment landscape, offering benefits such as improved work-life balance and increased productivity. However, challenges including communication difficulties, isolation, and maintaining corporate culture were identified. Different countries approached remote work variably, with some embracing it more readily than others. Technological advancements, particularly in video conferencing and cloud computing, played a crucial role in shaping the remote work environment. The research also highlights the importance of clear communication, providing appropriate tools, and involving employees in decision-making to enhance job satisfaction and retention in remote settings. The study concludes that while remote work offers numerous benefits, organizations must address its challenges to ensure employee satisfaction and retention. Implementing supportive policies, leveraging technology, and maintaining clear communication are key strategies for success in the evolving post-COVID work landscape. i JOB RETENTION AND SATISFACTION IN THE POST-COVID-19 ERA berlin Berlin International H H University of Applied Sciences international Salzufer 6, 10587 Berlin, Germany UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES
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A School Design for the Unknown Future : A System of Flexibility and Adaptability
(2022) Julia Hafez; Aquilar, Giorgia; Martín, Javier; Faculty of Architecture and Design; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This thesis explores the concept of flexibility and adaptation in school buildings to understand how they adjust to change. The research aims to answer two main questions: how are school buildings subjected to change, and what role does interior design play in their adaptability? The study utilizes a qualitative methodology to examine the historical development of educational structures and collect data on change variables. The concept of flexibility and adaptability is defined and their benefits and implementation in interior spaces are explored. Four flexibility design projects are analyzed to showcase different approaches, and a design project created in relation to the research is also examined. The findings contribute to understanding the importance of flexibility in school buildings and the role of interior design in promoting adaptability. Keywords: School buildings, flexibility, adaptation, interior design, change, educational structures
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A Systematic Literature Review on Alternatives to the Shareholder Value Maximization Approach
(2023) Harish Sharma; Koç, Hasan; Mantel, Peter; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: Maximizing shareholder value seeks to grow stockholder wealth by enhancing Company operations and making strategic decisions that benefit stockholders, the Company, and the business. This strategy promotes prudent management, transparency, and accountability. This concentrates on the evolution of the Shareholder-maximizing approach to corporate governance and its theoretical foundations, focusing on "shared value". Due to its extensive coverage across academic disciplines, Scopus is a crucial database for exploring new perspectives on corporate governance and management. This literature review encompasses Academic and professional publications from 2011 to the present, primarily utilizing academic articles sourced from Scopus. To ensure reliable results and a meaningful literature review significant research was included, while insignificant research was excluded. This study follows specific criteria for inclusion and exclusion to generate valuable insights into the research questions. After extracting data from Scopus, duplicate studies eliminated, and the data collected from the Scopus database by downloading a CSV file and selecting all pertinent information regarding shared value. Following data collection, Co-authorship Analysis based on countries, Co-occurrence Analysis based on keywords, and Bibliographic Coupling was conducted using VOS viewer software. Additionally, a trend analysis was performed in Excel to assess the potential scope of future publications. Addressing the first research question, the study examines the current relevance and usefulness of the Shareholder value maximization strategy. Trend analysis revealed that the number of articles written on this subject has increased over time. The statistics suggest a growing recognition of the shortcomings of the Shareholder-centric paradigm in dealing with intricate socio-economic and ecological problems. Addressing the second question, the concept of shared value, which benefits society and business, has garnered significant attention as a more holistic approach to decision-making that considers the interests of stakeholders. This approach aims to integrate economic strategies with social and environmental objectives. Keywords: Shareholder Value Maximization, Shared Value, Corporate Governance, Corporate Social Responsibility, Conscious Capitalism, Systematic Literature Review
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Abandoned, Resistant, Revived. Strategies and challenges in the adaptive reuse of brutalist buildings Interiors
(2024) Goyal, Ratik Rajiv; Ebert, Carola; Serdar-Köknar, Burcu; Faculty of Architecture and Design; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: This research thesis intends to bring about the discovery of challenges and strategies for the reuse of Brutalist buildings characterized by raw concrete and geometric forms that address contemporary needs and design standards. This thesis is invested in a qualitative literature review representing both early and late brutalism while researching the challenges and strategies of adaptive reuse. The further chapter is complemented by case studies for an in-depth analysis of the facts, findings, and answers to the research question. The comparative analyses of the successful and unsuccessful adaptive reuse projects that unraveled strategies to diffuse the inherent limitations of Brutalist structures will make up the cases. This thesis also presents a design project renewing Berlin's abandoned Bierpinsel Tower, an icon of late Brutalism. Nexustellar, the design project, provides a modern intervention with high-tech design, respecting the historical integrity of the structure by turning it into a vibrant experience space. This thesis contributes to the adaptive reuse discourse by understanding comprehensive strategies that will be necessary to integrate Brutalist buildings successfully into modern needs and changes. The thesis shows that careful and creative design will make sure that these architectural gems conserve and are remade for new functions, so that they maintain relevance in the 21st century
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Adaptive Furniture Design Strategies : Beyond Pure Space Efficiency
(2021) Popova, Anastasia; Martín, Javier; Larsen, Sigurd; Interior Design
MACHINE-GENERATED SUMMARY NOTE : Living spaces are the dominant part of our lives. Taking into account recent adjustments that COVID-19 has brought into our lives, we now spend up to 69% of our day at home (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020). Home has become our place of work, place of meeting, relaxation, and a hobby studio. However, the availability of those living spaces has not increased. Quite the opposite - the world is suffering from a housing affordability crisis for at least a decade now and it's only getting worse (Galster and Lee 2020). According to the journal article by George Galstera, rising housing prices are correlated with limited space availability in the urban scape. This is a major point that brings designers to several solutions - first, the most common one is to build outwards. This solution causes inconvenience due to being too far from the place of work. The second one - adapting to the existing spaces that may have not been used for living before, often irregular or small. This approach is frequently referred to as more sustainable and space-conscious (Salazar and Aspizua Sáez 2014). As we now combine our dominant life indoors and limited space availability, we understand that the main tool we are left with is design. In order to create spaces that are cozy and welcoming but yet small, they need to be adaptable to our needs. Adaptable to our varying lifestyle, family sizes, priorities, and daily activities. Elements like furniture, in this case, form the level of transformability of our homes
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Adaptive Reuse in Interior Spaces Through Vernacular Architecture, the Revitalization of Ex-convents in the State of Oaxaca Mexico
(2022) Edgar Mauricio Castillo Guerrero; Goodwin, Amara; Köknar, Sait Ali; Faculty of Architecture and Design; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This thesis focuses on the revitalization of a historical monument, specifically the ex-convent of Cuilapan de Guerrero in Oaxaca, Mexico, through the integration of vernacular architecture and adaptive reuse. The research question driving this study is: How can Vernacular Architecture and Adaptive Reuse be applied in an interior space to revitalize a historical monument? The thesis explores the challenges faced by historical buildings in Oaxaca, particularly due to limited funds for maintenance and restoration. By analyzing the concept of adaptive reuse and studying examples of successful architectural interventions, the study aims to propose a functional architectonic program that benefits both the ex-convent and the local community. The methodology involves qualitative research, including literature review, site visits, and analysis of case studies. The findings will inform the design process, considering the local culture, materials, and construction techniques to create a space that activates tourism and the local economy while preserving the historical identity of the site. Keywords: Vernacular architecture, adaptive reuse, historical buildings, interior design, revitalization, Oaxaca, Mexico
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ADAPTIVE REUSE STRATEGIES FOR CONTENTIOUS BUILDINGS
(2025) Al-Nahas, Nura; Stone, Sally; Ebert, Carola; Interior Architecture/Interior Design (MA) (Two-Year); Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Examining how historically loaded architecture can be reinterpreted without denying its past, this master’s thesis focuses on the example of wartime bunkers. Commonly perceived as reminders of the violence and trauma, these concrete structures oftentimes remain abandoned. Nonetheless, their mysterious presence and their unique spatial qualities evoke something captivating in the eye of the contemporary. Rooted in the dilemma of how to engage with architecture that originates from a sinister past, this research investigates how a reinterpretation of a bunker’s genius loci can inform the transformation and identity of contemporary spaces. Structured as a journey through four thematic “chambers“, this thesis first provides an understanding of contentious buildings, using bunkers as a particular of loaded heritage. Considering bunkers as a challenging site of intervention, leads in the second chamber to an analysis of their spatial, material, and typological nature, and explores their transition from wartime structures to cultural sites, supported by case studies of reimagined Berlin bunkers. A third chamber works out design strategies for building with the history, that transform the spatial identity, emotional atmosphere, and cultural potential of contested spaces, particularly bunkers. It includes an interview with a contemporary musician, Pablo Mirò, reflecting on creativity in isolation. In the final chamber, the master’s project “Shelter for Culture” is presented, which turns a Berlin Hochbunker into an expressive space for artists, without erasing its history. Rather than neutralizing the past, this master’s thesis proposes that meaningful transformation results when architectural interventions are grounded in the spirit of a place. Leaning on concepts such as the palimpsest and architectural memory, it proposes that new spatial identities can coexist with previous narratives, even with sinister ones. Layered, instead of replaced. Thus, bunkers become more than just relics of war; they become sites of a dialogue between past and present.
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Adoption of Machine Learning In E-commerce Teams: A Case Study
(2025) Silva Barros , Diego Osvaldo; Mantel, Peter; Master of Business Administration (MBA); Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
The rapid growth of data in the digital economy has positioned machine learning (ML) as a transformative technology for improving decision-making, efficiency, and competitiveness. While large corporations have the resources to integrate ML through dedicated data teams and advanced infrastructures, e-commerce teams often face significant barriers. Despite generating valuable data through sales, customer interactions, and marketing, many teams struggle to adopt ML effectively due to limited resources, lack of expertise, and uncertainty about practical implementation. In 2024, only 11% of European SMEs reported using ML, highlighting a substantial adoption gap compared to larger firms. This thesis investigates how small e-commerce teams with no formal data science background perceive, explore, and begin to adopt ML tools. Drawing on Diffusion of Innovations theory and the Dynamic Capabilities framework, the study emphasizes both the human and organizational dimensions of adoption. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including structured interviews with team members at Berlin Brands Group, an educational workshop, and a live demonstration of ML applied to a practical dataset. This process allowed the researcher to capture changes in perceptions, readiness, and confidence before and after exposure to ML. The findings highlight three central themes: (1) adoption challenges at the technological, organizational, and personal levels; (2) enabling factors such as curiosity, ease of use, and peer examples; and (3) shifts in awareness and openness following experiential learning. The study contributes to both theory and practice by offering a grounded understanding of ML adoption in SMEs and by proposing practical recommendations to make ML more accessible, actionable, and democratic for small teams.
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After abandonment
(2025) Galović Simonida; Goodwin, Amara; Ebert, Carola; Interior Design (MA) (Two-Year); Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
This thesis investigates the adaptive reuse of abandoned building stock that evades traditional conceptions of heritage buildings, examining their potential as catalysts for social cohesion and urban regeneration. While early adaptive reuse theory primarily focused on the adaptation of historic heritage, through the research, new light is shed on other categories of the built environment that would otherwise not have aligned with the traditional established framework of traditional conservation practice. Drawing on design theories of community-led “vernacular” interventions, ephemeral design approaches and building life cycles, new prospects emerge regarding counteracting abandonment and the redundancy of already existing building stock. Furthermore, attention is drawn to the unique opportunities of temporary occupation and how experimental interior architecture interventions can substantially contribute to this goal. Critically assessing the existing relevant literature on the topic, such as Camocini and Nosova’s Framework for designing with temporality and duration as well as Kohler and Yangs assessment models of building stock management, it connects contemporary ruins to overarching themes of sustainability, cultural value, community and urban regeneration. Case studies of occupied community led instances within the context of countercultural movements are analyzed to assess their effectiveness to counteracting negative connotations of abandoned buildings, fostering community engagement, and extending the effective life of buildings. The research conducted points to the effectiveness of shorter-term interventions, on the scale between events and intermittent use, counteract societal preconceptions and aversions towards disused infrastructure, mitigating rates of demolition. Inquiry into this topic effectively contributes to the further development of adaptive reuse discourse by shifting the notions of interior interventions further towards flexibility and responsiveness to the broader urban landscape, actively including the built environment left to be forgotten and erased.
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AI in Master’s Education: A Tool for Innovation or a Threat to Academic Integrity?
(2025) Yacoub, Mark Wasfy Faragalla; Hynes, Jennifer; Master of Business Administration (MBA); Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
This thesis explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools into master’s education, examining whether their use enhances academic innovation or threatens academic integrity. Through a mixed-methods approach combining a comprehensive literature review and empirical survey data from postgraduate students at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences, the study investigates four key areas: adoption patterns, demonstrated benefits, emerging challenges, and ethical considerations. Findings reveal that AI tools—particularly ChatGPT, Grammarly, and DeepSeek—have become essential academic resources, with over 86% of students adopting them to streamline tasks such as literature reviews, data analysis, and academic writing. These tools offer significant benefits including improved time management, enhanced research quality, and increased confidence in academic tasks. However, the rapid adoption of AI also introduces notable risks. Students report challenges such as over-reliance on AI, reduced motivation for deep thinking, and concerns about academic dishonesty. Furthermore, unequal access to premium AI tools and a lack of institutional guidance raise questions about fairness and academic equity. The study highlights the tension between AI’s potential to enhance learning and its capacity to undermine critical cognitive and ethical foundations of postgraduate education. Ultimately, this study positions AI as a transformative force in postgraduate education—one that demands thoughtful integration rather than avoidance. The findings highlight the importance of developing new academic frameworks that protect critical thinking, uphold academic integrity, and address growing concerns around equity and authorship. By centring the real experiences of master’s students, the research provides timely insights into how AI is reshaping higher education and underscores the need for universities to evolve alongside emerging technologies while preserving the core values of independent scholarship.
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An Analysis of Economic Sanctions Effectiveness Imposed on Opec Countries
(2023) Yiğit Tokatlı; Mantel, Peter; Villegas, Erick Behar; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This thesis, for the purpose of measuring sanction effectiveness, explores the impact of multilateral and international economic sanctions on four members of Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Revolving around the research question of how effective were the economic sanctions imposed on Russia, Iran, Venezuela, and Qatar during the political complexities they encountered with the international arena, this study explores the sanctions' impacting magnitudes. Primarily providing a literature review on sanctions effectiveness, the thesis puts forth the theoretical and methodological discussions as well as the scholarly findings that the literary writings has achieved before moving on to the formulation of its own appraisal framework. The thesis assesses the economic sanctions success in affecting economies based on the conditions of six economic indicators, namely, the figures reflected in their inflation rates, their Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the status of their oil sector, the values of the stock market exchange, their credit scores, and their budget standings. The study has chosen these indicators as it is subjectively gauged that these essentially characterize the fundamentals of analyzing political economies of states. Then, by investigating the statuses of these indicators with regards to the time periods of the sanctioning regimes enacted against these four countries, the study gauges the degree of damage these state economies have felt through the sanctions measures over the years. The findings show that the effectiveness of sanctions was felt in all four countries, yet the impacts on them were of varying degrees and should be considered specific to each case. Keywords: economic sanctions, sanction effectiveness, OPEC, political economy, international relations, inflation rates, GDP, oil sector, stock market, credit score
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An Analysis of Potential Forms and Impacts of Artificial Intelligence in the Bottling Filling Lines
(2022) Bachar Ibrahim; Mantel, Peter; Wagner, Evamaria; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: Abstract: In the bottle filling lines, bottle defects are a source of concern for the producers and the customers, which could cause danger to the customer and cost lots of wasted money. Artificial Intelligence automatically detects the bottle defects in the bottle filling line by classifying them as either good or defective and makes the right decision. This study investigates the potential forms and impacts of implementing artificial intelligence in the bottling filling line. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 participants from different countries, and who are working for various beverage companies. All the interviews were conducted online via Google Meet. Artificial intelligence has one main form in the bottling filling line, which is the automated visual inspection. Automated visual inspection is used in different locations and forms to inspect the mouth, bottom, wall, surface finish, volume, cap, sealing, and label of each bottle. The forms of automated visual inspection are considered forms of artificial intelligence because they work differently. Artificial intelligence has positive impacts on information, human, physical, and financial resources. Moreover, this thesis shows a strong correlation between artificial intelligence and the customer by improving the product's safety, optimizing the production capacity, and enhancing the competition and the production chain. Keywords: bottle filling lines, bottle defects, artificial intelligence, automated visual inspection, forms, impacts, interviews, online, Google Meet, safety, production capacity, competition, production chainches
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An Analysis of Procurement With the Nerve Center Approach in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction With a Special Focus on IB Vogt Gmbh
(2022) Oleg Ibragimov; Mantel, Peter; Villegas, Erick Behar; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: Abstract The past few years' supply chain disruptions made companies think about new approaches to prevent them. Procurement Nerve Center is there not only to avoid supply chain disruptions but also to improve future resilience. This research aims to review existing literature on the Procurement Nerve Center approach and Cross- functional teams; identify and classify a broad set of actions which companies can take to stabilize and prevent supply chain disruptions; compare the Procurement Nerve Center approach and set of levers with the practical example of ib vogt GmbH an EPC company. A semi-structured approach for in-depth interviews were conducted with the company's procurement department member to collect data. Later it was analyzed with the use of template analysis. The research shows on how approach of Procurement Nerve Center works, which set of levers are effective in different periods, in the context of this specific company. Keywords: Nerve Center, Procurement Nerve Center, Cross-functional team, supply chain, procurement, supply chain disruption, levers, EPC
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An Educational and Unifying Interior for Children and Families in the Community Centers of Global Cities
(2022) Maria Vatolina; Aquilar, Giorgia; Pöğün-Zander, Yüksel; Faculty of Architecture and Design; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This research paper focuses on the design of children's environments in dense urban settings and the importance of creating community centers that cater to the needs of families and children. The paper explores the challenges faced by modern families, such as hyperactivity in children and a lack of quality time due to the fast-paced urban lifestyle. It also discusses the negative effects of reduced physical activity and digitalization on children's development. The aim of the thesis is to investigate brain-developing activities recommended by neuropsychologists and apply interior design principles to create a child-friendly environment for entertainment and leisure. The paper emphasizes the value of family community centers and the need to enhance communication experiences within families. The methodology includes video analysis, interviews, and the examination of case studies to inform the design proposal for a neighborhood community center in a dense urban area. Keywords: Children's environments, dense urban settings, community centers, interior design, brain development
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An Examination of the Perceived Job Resources and Job Demands Influencing Financial Performance in an Algerian Maritime Human Resources Management
(2022) Nassima Chebout; Hynes, Jennifer; Wagner, Evamaria; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: Abstract Human resource is considered as the most valuable asset on any company. Research showed that the Human capital is impacting directly and indirectly the financial performance of any company. This study uses the JD-R model as a theoretical framework to identify the job demands and job resources perceived by staff on the 2021 organizational financial performance of an Algerian maritime survey company. The company is certified in quality, conformity assessment, health and safety, and environment management systems based respectively on the standards ISO 9001-2015, ISO17020-2017, ISO 45001-2018 and ISO 14001-2015. A mixed quantitative and qualitative methods have been used. The quantitative analysis used a survey on Google form that has been sent to 33 employees on three organizational levels (corporate office, regional technical offices and operational zones), the qualitative method was conducted through two phases, 1) Analysis of company secondary financial data and 2) thematic analysis of an open ended questionnaire that have been answered by 61% of corporate staff (N=11). Quantitative analysis through the R program and the thematic analysis have identified the following job resources: 1) role clarity, 2) job feedback, 3) good relationships with colleagues and managers and 4) involvement in the organization. However the qualitative analysis highlighted resources that have been rejected by the quantitative analysis such as 1) job variety, 2) implementation of health and safety measures, 3) learning opportunities, 4) performance feedback, 5) participation in decision making and 6) detachment from work. The qualitative analysis highlighted the importance of personal resources such as stress self- management capabilities to cope with potential stress related to the identified high job demands such as 1) pace and amount of work, 2) mental load, 3) access to information and 4) external audits. This case study supported five propositions of the JD-R model which are 1) high job resources lead to employee engagement, 2) high job resources and personal resources buffer high job demands impacts and lead to increase engagement and decrease stress, 3) high job demands perceived to be challenging and contributed to motivation and engagement, 4) high engagement level lead to decrease turnover intention and 5) engaged employees contribution to company performance through the increase of profit and decrease of cost. Keywords: job demands, job resources, financial performance, maritime shipment industry, port industry in Algeria, quality management system
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An Exploration of Ethnic Diversity in a Logistics Company from an Employee and Manager Perspective
(2023) Yamiko Hyson Phiri; Hynes, Jennifer; Villegas, Erick Behar; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This study investigates the significance of ethnic diversity in a logistics organization from the perspectives of both employees and management. The study's goal is to learn how organizations perceive and manage ethnic diversity in the workplace, as well as how it affects workplace culture and performance. The study looks into the perspectives and experiences of employees and managers in a logistics company, with an emphasis on the impact of diversity on collaboration, innovation, and job happiness. Data was acquired from a single firm office location using a case study approach. The findings highlight the significance of diverse leadership representation as well as the necessity for increased awareness and training activities. The study emphasizes the need of accepting diversity for better decision-making, problem-solving, and financial performance. The study concludes with recommendations for how the organization might build an inclusive work environment that maximizes the potential of a diverse staff. The study's value lies in providing organizations wanting to exploit ethnic diversity for improved performance and an inclusive workplace culture with practical insights and assistance. Keywords: Ethnic diversity, racial diversity, Collaboration, Cross-cultural communication, Inclusion, Diversity training, Leadership commitment, Innovation, Talent attraction, Employee engagement, Inclusive practices
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An exploration of international student loneliness : What can German universities do to help?
(2024) Stojkovski, Zlatko; Hynes, Jennifer; Ippendorf, Niko; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
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An Integration Between Value Stream Mapping and Business Process Modeling from the View of Process Landscape, a Study of Manufacturing Companies With Lean Manufacturing Systems
(2023) Alaa Atyah Abdellatif Mazroua; Koç, Hasan; Mantel, Peter; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AI-GENERATED ABSTRACT: Abstract: This study investigates the integration between Business Process Modeling (BPM) tools and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) as a synergistic approach to address the challenges encountered when using each approach independently. The objective is to combine the strengths of both methodologies and assess whether the integrated artifact can enhance process analysis and optimization. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to explore existing research and best practices in BPM and VSM. However, it is important to note that a literature gap exists regarding the theories of the integrated approach, as the literature predominantly focuses on the individual theories of each approach. To bridge this gap, a prototype software tool was developed to demonstrate the practical implications of the integrated approach. The findings reveal several advantages of the integration, including improved process visibility, the ability to capture both high-level and detailed process perspectives, enhanced data quality and accuracy, and facilitation of cross-functional collaboration. By utilizing the traditional VSM as a baseline, the integrated VSM artifact incorporates enhancements derived from the integration of BPM tools and VSMs. These enhancements address the identified challenges in creating VSMs and aim to provide a more comprehensive and insightful representation of the manufacturing process. The integrated VSM seeks to leverage the strengths of both approaches, combining the visual simplicity and clarity of traditional VSMs with the detailed process mapping capabilities offered by BPM tools. A validation phase was conducted to gather feedback from lean manufacturing experts regarding the integrated tool, which yielded promising results and further validated the potential of the integrated approach. Keywords: Value Stream Mapping, Business Process Modeling, integration, process analysis, process optimization, Lean manufacturing, Business process Management
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Analysis of Past Instance of Inflation
(2022) Igor Želčević; Artinger, Florian; Villegas, Erick Behar; Faculty of Business Administration; Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
AUTHOR-SUPPLIED ABSTRACT: Abstract: As a phenomenon, inflation has recently been on the rise across the globe. In the cases of some developed countries, inflation levels are reaching levels not seen in at least the previous two decades. According to Reinhart and Von Luncker (2022), across the globe, both in developing and developed countries, the world is faced with inflation above 5% on an annualized basis. By reviewing past periods of inflation throughout history, the paper intends to isolate key causes, as well as provide potential solutions and suggestions to help tackle the problem. The research will focus on both qualitative and quantitative factors that influence inflation. The quantitative part will include a time-series analysis of CPI data, interest rates, and money supply, among other variables, to find correlations that precede inflation. The qualitative part will examine geopolitical realities, psychology, and government policies. Additionally, the paper will explore the difference in perception of inflation among various economic schools and how they have influenced monetary policy. Although the paper will include examples of hyperinflation and information about inflation in the early-modern and modern periods, the main focus will be on the time period from 1960-2022, primarily pertaining to the G20 countries. The analysis will rely on data obtained from the OECD, IMF, and World Bank databases, as well as relevant central banks. The goal of the research is to provide policy makers today with useful suggestions and methods to combat inflation by identifying common trends and patterns among the analyzed examples. Two primary aspects will be considered: policy errors and external factors leading up to inflationary periods, and the responses to inflation by economic policy makers and governments, assessing their effectiveness in suppressing the phenomenon. Keywords: inflation, developed countries, causes, solutions, qualitative factors, quantitative factors, time-series analysis, CPI data, interest rates, money supply, geopolitical realities, psychology, government policies, economic schools, monetary policy, hyperinflation, G20 countries, policy makers
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Analysis of Startup Failure Patterns, Early Warning Signs, and the Startup Survival Matrix
(2025) Ksaiby, Anas; Mantel, Peter; Master of Business Administration (MBA); Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Startups became a main player in transforming countries’ economies, fueling technological innovation, and creating vast job opportunities, yet unfortunately, the majority of startups fail at early stages of business life. Recent studies warn that about 90% of startups fail in the very first few years (Hvidkjaer, 2022), the failure has consequences not only on the economy at different scales but also on founders personal relationships, emotional distress and financial burden, and missed opportunities (Hvidkjaer, 2022; Eisenmann 2021). Even though many researchers analyze the reasons behind startups failure, with most studies focusing on isolated factors, the complex interaction between these factors is still not fully explored, explaining the consistently high rate of startup failure. The topic of this thesis arises from a personal goal and a deep interest to understand the observations within entrepreneurial experience on both sides, success and failure. I have witnessed friends, relatives, and business owners invest years of their precious time and effort, into ventures that appeared promising at first, yet ended up unexplained, fading out years of savings and leaving founders at huge stress, anxiety, and financial losses, this motivated me to create a comprehensive, data-backed study that bridges the gap between academic theory and founders reality. This study suggests that startups failure is rarely caused by a single reason, but instead, it heavily impacted by cascading interactions between different factors like vulnerable funding, market & timing challenges, team dynamics, wrong management strategies, and some other external factors. Inspired by specialized business and entrepreneurship books, focusing on and detailing startups failure patterns and how different risks can be mitigated, backed with a quantitative analysis of a rich dataset including details about thousands of successful and failure ventures across five major business sectors, and on the top, findings from a short tailored questionnaire, this research aims to develop a Startup Survival Matrix, a practical diagnostic tool for entrepreneurs and investors to understanding, identifying, and be alerted about cumulative risks that threaten the survival of their new ventures. The Startup Survival Matrix provides founders, investors, and even policymakers with a comprehensive insights, early warning signs, and a winning strategy based on real businesses and entrepreneurship experience. By making the overlooked patterns of startup failure visible and actionable, this research aims to help more new startups survive and thrive, by expanding the knowledge and understanding of patterns driving startups to failure and by creating a roadmap for first-time entrepreneurs highlighting risks they might face in each stage during their journey.