CERIC Seminar with Hugo Lam and Yangchun (Chris) Xiong

Professor Hugo Lam is joined by Dr Yangchun (Chris) Xiong for two titles; publishing in IJOPM and using VR to reduce workplace safety accidents.

Publishing in IJOPM: An Editor’s Perspective

Abstract

International Journal of Operations & Production Management’s (IJOPM) (CABS 4) mission is to publish leading-edge, innovative research that has the potential to significantly advance the field of Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM), theoretically and practically. IJOPM has published research on various topics such as sustainable OSCM, service management, healthcare management, new technology adoption, innovation management, and interfaces between OSCM and other business functions. In this seminar, I will provide an introduction of the journal, highlighting its review process, submission statistics, special issues, and future initiatives and activities. I will also share some insights about the topics and methods of past research published in the journal. I am happy to answer any questions related to the journal.

Biography

Professor Hugo Lam is Chair in Operations Management and Director of Research (OSCM) at the University of Liverpool Management School. He obtained his PhD degree from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Hugo’s research focuses on operational implications of emerging technology adoption and sustainable supply chain management. He is serving the research community as a Co-Editor-in-Chief of International Journal of Operations & Production Management and an Associate Editor of Journal of Operations Management. He has also served as a Guest Editor for several academic journals, editing special issues related to social media, metaverse, extreme weather, and sustainable supply chains.

How Does VR Training Reduce Workplace Safety Accidents: The Role of Workforce Contingencies

Abstract

Workplace safety remains a persistent challenge, particularly in high-risk industries where human errors can lead to serious accidents. Drawing on Organizational Information Processing Theory, this study examines whether and when VR training reduces workplace safety accidents. Using firm-level OSHA injury data from 2016 - 2023, combined with Compustat and Factiva, we identify firms adopting VR training and estimate its causal effects through Mahalanobis distance matching and difference-in-differences analyses. The results show that VR training significantly lowers safety accidents. This effect is stronger in firms with high workforce intensity, growth, and volatility, suggesting that VR training is especially effective under heightened workforce-related uncertainty.

Biography

Dr Yangchun (Chris) Xiong is a Lecturer in Operations Management at the School for Business and Society, University of York. He obtained his PhD in Management Studies from the University of Liverpool. Chris’s research focuses on the adoption of disruptive digital technologies, such as AI, blockchain, big data analytics, and virtual reality in operations management, as well as sustainability issues in supply chain management. Methodologically, he has a strong interest in econometric approaches, including event studies and difference-in-differences designs. His work has been published in leading operations management journals, such as Journal of Operations Management (UTD 24, CABS 4*), International Journal of Operations & Production Management (CABS 4), etc.