Learning Process and Outcomes
Reflecting on my research into the learning process and outcomes associated with circular economy principles, I got to deal with the economic principles and this gave me a still better understanding of Nigerian manufacturing. Initially, before starting this dissertation, I had a basic grasp of circular economy concepts. However, after conducting an in-depth literature review, I realized that my initial perspective was limited, particularly regarding theoretical framework like closed-loop supply chains and reverse logistics.
By researching Transaction Cost Theory (TCT) and Resource Dependence Theory (RDT), I studied how these strategic concepts guide sourcing, production, and waste management decisions within global supply chains. Here, I gained a broader understanding of the interaction between minimal transaction costs and resource dependence.
Moreover, I explored empirical case studies that helped me strategically align my dissertation. I began identifying real-world challenges and successes associated with implementing circular economy principles. Collaborative initiatives and waste management strategies emerged as significant challenges. In the case of Nigerian Breweries Plc, I observed how engaging stakeholders and aligning corporate objectives with sustainable practices create measurable environmental and economic benefits.
I aim to advance in the field of sustainable supply chain management, and understanding the concepts in this highly valuable field. For instance, redesigning products, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and integrating innovative technologies like artificial intelligence have shown me their importance in reducing waste and achieving sustainability goals.
Similarly, the practical implementation of circular economy principles emphasizes the need for cooperation, transparency, and continuous improvement.
This journey has enriched my ability to devise and formulate effective strategies and communicate their value to various stakeholders. My experience as a supply chain manager would play a critical role in which I will be able to identify the major gaps in the circular economy policies and work with various partners to generate sustainable results. Ultimately, through this dissertation, I will be able to critically analyze and apply theoretical concepts to practical situations. I am glad that I am now able to identify my strong points in strategic thinking and also detect the situations, in which I have to improve in providing resources for the project and notify concerned organizations.
Process and Product
Due to such a project's scale, the process of writing this dissertation initially felt overwhelming for myself. However, as Williams (2013) states, with proper planning, access to helpful resources and effective time management, it becomes easier. During the last planning stage, my academic advisors emphasised the need of choosing a topic that triggered my interests. In selecting the relevant and a topic I could timely deliver, I meticulously planned my research proposal through transformation of a range of ideas until I found one that passionately resonated with me. Ultimately, I was able to make a decision in investigating how circular economy principles could be incorporated into global supply chain management to promote sustainability and waste reduction in Nigerian manufacturing companies.
If I could make a reflection on my prior experience when writing a dissertation as an undergraduate, some noteworthy changes include deciding the strategies that worked well and the habits to avoid. For instance, I can now confirm that breaking the dissertation into manageable sections and planning, accordingly allowed to monitor progress and maintain high quality for my final submission. Additionally, I came to realise that self-motivation was essential for a stable and steady progress. In meeting my goals, I use Pomodoro technique to ensure I write each day for at least 3 hours as per a plan that I had carefully drafted. The effectiveness of the technique was felt especially when I had other commitments for the day. In the table below, I have made a summary of the practices and skills were key for my success in making substantial progresses each day:
Examples of Good Practice Skills Required
1. Planning the research question thoroughly, ensuring the topic is interesting - Creativity
2. Breaking the dissertation into manageable sections, creating sub-sections - Research skills
3. Writing a little every day while adhering to a well-drafted plan - Organisation skills
4. Regular communication with my advisor to understand project expectations - Project management
- Perseverance
- Planning skills
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
While such practices proved to be beneficial, I recognize areas that could be improved. The final paper might have been of higher quality if my planning, organisation, and flexibility had been better. Although I used Pomodoro technique and adhered to my initial plan, I didn’t anticipate unforeseen circumstances that required adjustments such as when I had a power cut out for a whole weekend due to flooding in my area. Consequently, in the future, I need to be more flexible in my planning, ensuring that I can adapt to unexpected changes as the example gave me flexibility to manage such tasks. I made a promise to build buffer time, for instance, into schedules for unforeseen delays. I made the organising my outline if new insights or circumstances emerge during research.
Generally, while challenging, the dissertation-writing process was highly rewarding. I gained deep knowledge on the incorporation of circular economy principles into global supply chains and the role principles play in promotion of sustainable Nigerian manufacturing companies. The structured approach to managing dissertation’s overflow, combined with regular and much-needed feedback from my advisor, allowed me to produce a comprehensive final product. I also equipped myself with valuable project management and research skills that will definitely serve me well in the future.
Review of Models Used
I explored various theoretical models throughout the research that related to circular economy practices and global supply chain management in Nigerian manufacturing companies. After an evaluation of many concepts, I made a decision to stick to how circular economy models could be integrated into supply chains with an aim to promote sustainability and waste reduction. The decision I made arose as there was a need for critical evaluation
Of a circular economy practices as presented in the current global business environment. In a time where the globe has increased discussions on environmental concerns and resource scarcity, Nigerian manufacturers need strategic approaches to mitigate their environmental impact while maintaining competitiveness.
Interpretivist and Inductive Approaches
The interpretivist philosophy and inductive approach became the foundational models for the dissertation’s research design. For qualitative understanding of diverse stakeholder perceptions, interpretivism allowed me to investigate circular economy principles within the context of Nigerian manufacturers through an analysis of stakeholders varying beliefs, behaviours, and cultural influences. The inductive approach, beginning from specific data and patterns to derive broader theories, allowed for a contextual exploration of circular economy practices and their challenges in supply chains.
Research Onion Framework
The research onion framework, popularised by Saunders et al. (2012), served as a structural guide. The model systematically planned the study’s design, starting with philosophies and progressing through approaches, strategies, and data collection methods. It ensured I could logically align from the research philosophy to data collection, supporting a comprehensive analysis.
Thematic Analysis
Additionally, I applied thematic analysis which provided the methodological framework for categorising and interpreting the data. Through coding the data and grouping it into themes and sub-themes, I gained a perspective into the specific challenges, practices, and success factors of circular economy integration. In the table below, I summarise some of the key themes and concepts which arose:
Theme | Why I chose to Incorporate the Theme
------- | --------
Closed Supply Chains | Fundamental to resource optimization and product lifecycle extension
Reverse Logistics | Aligns with circular economy principles
Success Factors | Crucial for effective waste management and product recovery
Challenges | Enhances material flow visibility
Challenges | Identifies drivers like strategic leadership and stakeholder collaboration
Challenges | Highlights technological innovation
Challenges | Key barriers include infrastructure gaps, regulatory constraints, and technological limitations
Models Explored in Related Modules
During the program, I encountered additional models and concepts in related coursework, which helped frame my understanding of supply chain management and sustainability. Key models included:
Course | Models/Concepts | Authors
---|---|---
Global and Transnational Business | SWOT Analysis | Hill & Westbrook (1997)
Global and Transnational Business | BCG Matrix Model | Henderson (1970)
Globalization, Innovation, and Sustainability | Uppsala Model | Vahlne & Johanson (2013)
Globalization, Innovation, and Sustainability | Glocalization | Robertson (2012)
Why I Chose Circular Economy Models
Truthfully, I have been exposed to such and more varied models but I found circular economy concepts more compelling as they more directly relevant to Nigeria’s growing manufacturing sector. Creating a sustainable, waste-free supply chain, the need for a significant manager solution was revealed practically in my research as practical strategies that manufacturers could use to integrate circular principles were needed. I also learned that an adoption of circular economy practices not only promotes environmental conservation but also enhances competitive advantage through efficient resource use. Therefore, the chosen models and frameworks provided a strong foundation for my research, ensuring a deep analysis of circular economy integration in supply chains. The interpretivist philosophy and thematic analyses allowed for clear insights, while the research onion framework structured the study in a logical way. Such an integrated approach ultimately helped my understanding of circular economy models which helped me to generate insightful recommendations for Nigerian manufacturers to achieve sustainability goals and reduce waste.
References
Henderson, B. D. (1970). The Product Portfolio. Boston Consulting Group.
Hill, T., & Westbrook, R. (1997). SWOT Analysis: It's Time for a Product Recall. Long Range Planning, 30(1), 46-52.
Robertson, R. (2012). Globalisation or Glocalisation? Journal of International Communication, 18(2), 191-208.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2012). Research Methods for Business Students (6th ed.). Pearson Education.
Vahlne, J., & Johanson, J. (2013). The Uppsala Model on Evolution of the Multinational Business Enterprise: From Internalization to Coordination of Networks. International Marketing Review, 30(3), 189–210.