Heuristic optimization of the p-median problem and population re-distribution

This thesis contributes to the heuristic optimization of the p-median problem and Swedish population redistribution.   The p-median model is the most representative model in the location analysis. When facilities are located to a population geographically distributed in Q demand points, the p-median model systematically considers all the demand points such that each demand point will have an effect on the decision of the location. However, a series of questions arise. How do we measure the distances? Does the number of facilities to be located have a strong impact on the result? What scale of the network is suitable? How good is our solution? We have scrutinized a lot of issues like those. The reason why we are interested in those questions is that there are a lot of uncertainties in the solutions. We cannot guarantee our solution is good enough for making decisions. The technique of heuristic optimization is formulated in the thesis.   Swedish population redistribution is examined by a spatio-temporal covariance model. A descriptive analysis is not always enough to describe the moving effects from the neighbouring population. A correlation or a covariance analysis is more explicit to show the tendencies. Similarly, the optimization technique of the parameter estimation is required and is executed in the frame of statistical modeling. 

Student Thesis Level: Master’s Thesis in Business Administration Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) networking : A case study on why members join CSR network and why are they sharing their knowledge

Purpose – This research focuses on finding the reasons, why members from different sectors join a cross-sector/multi-stakeholder CSR network and what motivates them to share (or not to share) their knowledge of CSR and their best practices. Design/methodology/approach – Semi-structured interviews were conducted with members of the largest cross-sector CSR network in Sweden. The sample base of 15 people was chosen to be able to represent a wider variety of members from each participating sectors. As well as the CEO of the intermediary organization was interviewed. The interviews were conducted via email and telephone. Findings – The findings include several reasons linked to the business case of CSR such as stakeholder pressure, competitive advantage, legitimacy and reputation as well as new reasons like the importance of CSR, and the access of further knowledge in the field. Further reasons are in line with members wanting to join a network, such as access to contact or having personal contacts. As to why members are sharing their CSR knowledge, the findings indicate to inspire others, to show CSR commitment, to be visible, it leads to business opportunity and the access of others knowledge, and because it was requested. Reasons for not sharing their knowledge would be the lack of opportunity, lack of time and the lack of experience to do so. Originality/value – The research contributes to existing studies, which focused on Corporate Social Responsibility and cross-sector networking as well as to inter-organizational knowledge sharing in the field of CSR.