bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control structures and payout policy
Authors: Renneboog Luc , Trojanowski Grzegorz
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine whether or not divident policy is influenced by the firm's corporate control structure, investigating the relationship between the dynamics of earnings payout and the voting power enjoyed by different types of shareholders. This allows one to test a set of hypotheses derived from agency and pecking order theories.

Design/methodology/approach

A large panel of UK firms for the 1990s and is analyzed that the payout policy is significantly related to control concentration. The problem of control measurement is addressed and the use of Banzhaf indices advocated as a relevant measure of voting power in the analysis of corporate policy choices. The traditional framework proposed by Linter is extended and an econometrically sound approach to modeling the dynamics of the total payout suggested. Where most – even recent – studies on payout policy show some methodological flaws, state‐of‐the‐art dynamic panel data estimation procedures are applied.

Findings

Expectedly, profitability is a crucial determinant of payout decisions, but the presence of strong block holders or block holder coalitions weakens the relationship between the corporate earnings and the payout dynamics. Block holders appear to realize that an overly generous payout may render the company liquidity constrained, and, consequently, result in suboptimal investment policy.

Practical implications

The results challenge some of the implications of the agency theories of payout, and favor a pecking‐order explanation for the observed patterns. The analysis of payout dynamics reveals also that companies adjust payout policies to changes in earnings only gradually, which is consistent with “dividend smoothing”. In fact, the results suggest a presence of a more general phenomenon of the “total payout smoothing”.

Originality/value

According to one's bet knowledge, this is the first study employing those game theory‐based concepts in the context of corporate payout policies.
Malaysian unit trust aggregate performance
Authors: Fauziah  , Isa Mansor
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to focus on examining unit trust performance in Malaysia over the period 1991‐2001.

Design/methodology/approach

The broad based study covers full economic cycles using 7 different performance measures: raw return, market adjusted return, Jensen's alpha, adjusted Jensen's alpha, Sharpe Index, adjusted Sharpe Index, and Treynor Index.

Findings

The results show that on average the performance of Malaysian unit trust falls below market portfolio and risk free returns. However, the variance of unit trust monthly returns is less than the market. Performance by type of funds indicates that bond funds show relatively superior performance, over and above the market and equity unit trusts. This is due to the high interest rate kept during the crisis period. Findings also suggest that there is no persistency in performance as there is no significant inter‐temporal correlation between past and current performance.

Research limitations/implications

The issue of inferior performance needs further investigations to adjust for great importance placed on maintaining consistent dividend distribution. In addition, ill‐managed funds must be separately analysed to see if limited budget, less qualified managers, use of limited information and less sophisticated software could explain the poor performance.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information for potential investors and portfolio management companies looking for opportunities to invest.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the present body of knowledge by offering broad based performance evidence from an emerging market with strong government back up for unit trusts investment.
An integrated framework for style analysis: how is it useful to Malaysian equity trust investors?
Authors: Lau Wee‐Yeap
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The Asian financial crisis revealed the weaknesses of Malaysian fund management industry. The financial losses incurred in the crisis brought forward the issue of asymmetric information between the fund managers and investors i.e. the mismatch between the investors’ investment objectives and funds’ profiles. This paper aims to demonstrate the usefulness of the new framework in mitigating the above problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper advocates an integrated framework of style analysis, i.e. using strong‐form of style analysis by Sharpe – a multi‐indexed benchmark for estimating the investment style of the unit trust funds, and using the weak‐form of style analysis by Amenc, Sfeir and Martellini, to measure the risk‐adjusted performance of the funds with alpha and selection return.

Findings

This study concludes that: First, the inclusion of asset classes with negative correlation coefficient enhances the performance of funds. Second, funds with relatively high degree of style (above 70 per cent) that hold large‐cap stocks together with high portion of liquid asset class (6‐35 per cent) tend to have higher alpha, translating into higher information ratio. Third, index funds have the lowest information ratio, implying that these funds are not actively managed compared with others.

Research limitations/implications

This paper discovers a possible trend of misclassification as the degree of styles for index funds does not differ from the other fund types. Future researchers can look into the issue of misclassification of fund objectives for the existing unit trust funds.

Practical implications

This paper highlights the importance of the equity style management in bridging the gap between emerging capital markets and developed markets. One of the conclusions highlighted in the paper is the creation of new indices for different asset classes. Asset management companies are also advised to improve their disclosure in their annual reports to mitigate the issue of asymmetric information between fund managers and investors.

Originality/value

To the author's knowledge, this empirical work using integrated framework style analysis is the first of its kind on Malaysian unit trust funds. This paper is particularly useful to regulators of emerging capital markets and asset management companies.
Organising e‐journals from the point of view of humanities: a case study at the University of Parma
Authors: Bevilacqua Fabrizia
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Research was carried out at the University of Parma with the purpose to investigate the organisation of e‐journal titles from a user viewpoint, in order to find out what influence the approach adopted by the library may have on the use of e‐journals and what characteristics the organisation of e‐journals should have to enable an easy discovery of resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study involved students, faculty members and library staff in classics and medieval studies. Research methodology comprised a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach: a focus group, observations, interviews, and a questionnaire.

Findings

The group of users appeared still reluctant to use e‐journals, the main barriers to use being lack of awareness and limited number of relevant resources. Users were favourable to being provided with multiple points of access to e‐journals. Their preference appeared to be based on the familiarity of the method and similarity to the organisation of their physical library. The organisation of e‐journals adopted at Parma had the potential to meet the users' expectations, but its actual implementation seemed to require more effective promotion and user‐centred design.

Originality/value

This paper may prove useful to humanities librarians engaged in providing user effective organisation of e‐journals and in encouraging researchers and students to use electronic journals.
Beauty queens at the Women's Library, London Metropolitan University
Authors: Moorhead Fiona
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide an overview of recent audience development work at The Women's Library, London Metropolitan University.

Design/methodology/approach

The Women's Library used visitor research to identify key areas for building new audiences. Using library and archival collections as a starting point, the library forged strategic creative partnerships and developed a public programme designed to raise the profile of the library and increase attendance amongst the target audience groups.

Findings

The study provides detailed information about the planning process and implementation of the project, including the marketing campaign, and gives examples of ways in which the library used collaborative partnerships to engage with new and diverse audiences.

Research limitations/implications

The case study focuses on one organisation, a University Library with museum and archival collections, but contains information transferable to other library services.

Practical implications

An insight into ways of working to increase library users and broaden audiences, using visitor research, marketing and audience development as an integral part of strategic planning.

Originality/value

This paper showcases innovative work in the library sector, and in a broader context, reflects activity in the cultural sector in the UK.
Are public libraries worth their price?
Authors: Aabø Svanhild
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper reports from a valuation study of the Norwegian public libraries, aiming to provide a better understanding of their total value, both use and non‐use value, as viewed by the population. An objective was to explore whether or not the citizens found that their benefits outweighed the costs to provide them.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies the contingent valuation method, developed in economics to valuate non‐market goods. Contingent valuation is based on representative questionnaire surveys and has been used to valuate several cultural goods, including a few library valuation studies.

Findings

The empirical data based on a representative population sample demonstrates that the value of the Norwegian public libraries decidedly outweigh their costs. Elicitation of the population's awareness of property rights to their local library showed that an overwhelming majority of the population (94 per cent) perceive they have such rights. The valuation result indicates that the benefits from the public libraries are four times their costs.

Research limitations/implications

The method is based on hypothetical markets. More contingent valuation studies of libraries are necessary to refine the measure instruments. The study explores the benefit‐cost relation at the national level. Further research is needed for studying the benefit‐cost relation at the municipal level.

Practical implications

The findings can be used as one way of documenting the value of public libraries to politicians, local authorities and the general public.

Originality/value

This appears to be the first contingent valuation study of public libraries at a national level, in Norway and internationally.
New media and new roles of librarianship
Authors: Jørn Nielsen Hans
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To argue that library web sites embedded in a new media environment initiate and demand new kinds of communication and new communication skills.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a short version of findings related to the author's research of the internet as a medium in libraries, especially in the domain of imaginative literature. The paper is based theoretically on findings of new media research. The approach is a theoretical clarification of what is new about new media and why new media may move librarians to new kinds of publicity and communication. This is illustrated by a presentation of the Danish library web site litteratursiden.dk, produced by librarians to inspire readers of fiction among library patrons.

Findings

Theoretical and practical findings by new media research have indicated several new media features concerning the internet and the web. The web is a hypertextual media environment – all web sites are part of a global media environment, a global publicity. Local web communication is already a global communication. The web interface is also a multimedia interface, and it gives the possibility of interactive, dialogic communication. Further web sites are “remediations” of media types and genres from other media. These features must be considered when analysing library web sites, and they must be considered in the education of librarians in the future. The Danish library web site litteratursiden.dk is used to demonstrate how a literary library web site may use the web as a medium, and how new skills are needed and developed. The site gives access to the fiction of library catalogues, but at the same time it is a literary magazine with news, essays and recommendations. The librarians operate in two kinds of space – the library space and the literary public space. The addressee is both the library patron and the common reader. This duplicity may be seen as an expansion of the reader advisory service and may be compared with similar advisory services in reader development programmes.

Practical implications

The world wide web and new media may change the roles of the librarian in public libraries. The library web site is embedded in a general media environment, which may demand new skills of media communication.

Originality/value

The paper aims to focus on the public librarian as a new media producer and communication expert.
A global view of library associations for students and new librarians
Authors: Agee Jim , Lillard Linda
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To guide students' thinking about joining professional associations.

Design/methodology/approach

A few representative professional organizations are explored. Aspects such as organizational structure, history, culture, professional focus, and size are discussed.

Findings

Many more professional associations exist and encourage student participation than most students are aware of when they enter the profession.

Practical implications

Students can compare professional associations to find those most suited to their professional interests. These may not be the most local or well known national organizations.

Originality/value

This is an attempt to help students recognize that professional organizations exist regardless of their niche interest, and despite the larger and more general associations that may be given local emphasis.
Regional library systems: a tale of cooperation that grew America's public libraries
Authors: Long Sarah Ann
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Background on library service needs that lead to the creation of regional library systems, and overview of current trends.

Design/methodology/approach

Historical and philosophical overview by participating regional library system director.

Findings

In Illinois, the creation of regional library systems supported the establishment of many new public libraries and service was expanded and strengthened in existing libraries. With the need for new libraries less critical, the systems have greater focus on resource sharing and library development.

Originality/value

As resources for libraries continue to be strained, cooperative ventures can make scarce dollars go further.
The management of independent secondary school libraries in England and Wales
Authors: Turner Richard
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This literature review aims to provide a synthesis of key information available about the management of independent secondary school libraries in England and Wales. The review has been the foundation of a PhD research project that is investigating issues about the management of school libraries in English and Welsh independent schools.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review covers both hard copy and electronic formats identified from accessing library catalogues, contacting relevant organisations and key players, conducting online databases and wider internet searches plus other elements of the literature search. The review is structured to address the literature about independent schools, their libraries, national and international guidelines for best practice on school librarianship, previous research, the role of the school library manager and select key current issues.

Findings

The literature review indicates that there is a substantial current literature about general school librarianship, much of which is relevant to the management of independent school libraries. However, the independent school library sector itself has not been widely researched and the published information about it is scant.

Research limitations/implications

The literature review has largely focused on published information about general school librarianship where it impacts on independent school libraries. This is because there is little information specifically about the management of independent school libraries. Because each school library is different and is a reflection of its own school's culture, a general overview of the management of independent school libraries has not previously been produced. The review is a selective literature review, but identifies the key works relevant to the management of specifically independent school libraries.

Practical implications

The review has helped to structure and direct a PhD research project that is contributing to the literature and addressing some of the gaps in knowledge.

Originality/value

Literature on school librarianship tends to focus on issues that are topical at the time of publication. A review of the literature about the broader management of the school library is original. Also, a literature review that is relevant to the management of independent school libraries is unique. The review will be of value to the broader PhD research about the management of independent school libraries. It will be of particular interest and worth to independent school library managers, but also to general school library practitioners and those with an interest in the sector in the research, government and wider educational communities.
Sexual harassment and the law: the British experience
Authors: Lockwood Graeme , Rosenthal Patrice , Budjanovcanin Alexandra
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To explore key legal issues surrounding sexual harassment claims made to employment tribunals and the courts.

Design/methodology/approach

This entails qualitative legal analysis of case decisions. This will involve an exposition of the reasoning behind legal decisions and a critical examination of the courts' or tribunals' interpretation of the law.

Findings

The research provides information about features and trends in sexual harassment litigation in Britain.

Research limitations/implications

This paper outlines a set of preliminary results from an analysis of some sexual harassment cases heard in Britain.

Practical implications

Highlights key implications of legal decisions for human resource policy and practice in organizations. It will also identify deficiencies in management practice that lead to instances of sexual harassment taking place.

Originality/value

Scholars and policymakers in organizations should be interested in an integrated analysis of legal and organizational issues with respect to sexual harassment. The wider potential of the research is supported by the interest of the Equal Opportunities Commission and the willingness of the Commission to be named as an end user of the study.
Performance appraisals as a selection criterion in downsizing
Authors: Schraeder Mike , Self Dennis R. , Lindsay Douglas R.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The primary purpose of this article is to examine two alternative approaches for the use of performance appraisals in selecting individuals out of the organization (i.e. to be laid off). A rank‐order approach and a banding approach are compared to provide insight regarding issues associated with each approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature examining the status of downsizing as an organizational strategy, as well as some of the legal and practical considerations associated with the use of performance appraisals in downsizing decisions is reviewed as a precursor to an illustrated comparison of a rank‐order approach and banding approach to select individuals to be downsized. Actual performance appraisal scores for 106 individuals working in an organization were analyzed for the purposed of the comparative illustration.

Findings

The illustrative comparison highlights specific issues associated with using two different approaches for selecting individuals for an organizational downsizing.

Research limitations/implications

To provide a more comprehensive examination of rank‐order and banding approaches for selecting individuals for an organizational downsizing, larger samples from a variety of organizations in different industries would be insightful. Further, organizations considering either approach for the purpose of making downsizing decisions should more closely examine existing case law and legal precedents to insure compliance with appropriate laws.

Practical implications

The article highlights the potential dilemmas faced by organizations using a banding or rank‐order approach in making downsizing decisions.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a growing body of literature emphasizing the importance of performance appraisals in organizations.
A stakeholder model for implementing social responsibility in marketing
Authors: Maignan Isabelle , Ferrell O.C. , Ferrell Linda
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide a comprehensive managerial framework to understand and provide a well balanced and integrated stakeholder orientation for implementing corporate social responsibility in marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

Many published articles provide significant findings related to narrow dimensions of stakeholder orientation in marketing. This article utilizes existing knowledge on this topic to support a methodology to implement a well‐integrated corporate social responsibility program that encompasses marketing.

Findings

The findings provide a grounded framework based on previous research that provides a step‐by‐step approach for implementing corporate social responsibility from a marketing perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The framework developed in this paper provides an opportunity to examine to what extent the step‐by‐step methodology has been implemented in organizations as well as alternative approaches for implementation.

Practical implications

This is a managerial guide for using a stakeholder model for implementing social responsibility in marketing.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils a need for advancing knowledge on implementing social responsibility in marketing and provides a practical framework for managers who desire to implement social responsibility.
Exploring “deep” and “wide” stakeholder relations in service activity
Authors: Jallat Frédéric , Wood Elliot
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The aim of this article is to offer readers several useful paths of thought on a “deepened” and “widened” approach to the notion of interface, taking into account several types of stakeholder in the exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

Three case studies are developed and organised around those two dimensions which seem essential in interface management.

Findings

Since the very essence of service is linked to relations and exchanges, it seems important that the range of stakeholders directly or indirectly influencing service processes should be taken into consideration.

Originality/value

Owing to the multiplicity and complexity of the ties that connect them to the service provider or to clients, the management of these groups is often difficult, involving internal and external cultural considerations. However, a well carried out analysis of these involved parties and ties constitutes a major source of innovation and differentiation on the market of intangibles.
Stakeholder relationships in an international retailing context: an investment bank perspective
Authors: Palmer Mark , Quinn Barry
Published: January 2007

Purpose

In the stakeholder marketing literature, there have been calls by several researchers to expand the stakeholder domain to incorporate a broader array of stakeholders. In developing this argument in this paper the authors aim to explore a set of stakeholder relationships in an international retailing context, notably those which exist between retail firms and investment banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical ideas are subject to empirical scrutiny from 34 in‐depth interviews with investment banks and senior retail executives from two retail multinationals.

Findings

Exploratory findings suggest that US investment banks' ideals were at odds with European retail firms – and both occupied “different thought worlds”. It is concluded that the relationships between financial stakeholders and the retail firm cannot be explained simply by reference to stylised economic interactions, but must also be examined in the light of the cultural contexts and different forms of market system within which different firms emerge, operate and interact.

Originality/value

New strategies such as internationalisation stretch resources and capabilities to a point where retailers invariably will be exposed to different stakeholder issues and stresses. Towards this end, this paper contends that the significant international re‐orientation under way in retailing must be understood within the wider context of stakeholder theory. The paper argues that the full potential of applying stakeholder marketing theory to the internationalisation process of retailers has yet to be realised. From this exploratory research, five research propositions are put forward that might serve as a guide to future research in this area.
Corporate reputation, stakeholders and the social performance‐financial performance relationship
Authors: Neville Benjamin A. , Bell Simon J. , Mengüç Bülent
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To increase understanding of the role of reputation in the corporate social performance (CSP) and financial performance (FP) relationship, including contingencies.

Design/methodology/approach

Stakeholder theory is drawn on to present a model of reputation's role in the contingent CSP‐FP relationship.

Findings

CSP is affected by stakeholders' resource allocation to the organisation. This allocation is based on stakeholders' assessment of the organisation's reputation relative to stakeholders' particular expectations, which may be instrumentally and/or normatively framed. Reputation, therefore, plays a key role in the CSP‐FP relationship. Additionally, the authors propose that the equivocal results of previous research into the CSP‐FP relationship may be partly explained by organisational and market contingencies. Specifically, the authors contend that strategic fit, competitive intensity and reputation management capability moderate the CSP‐FP relationship.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical measurement issues and future research directions are discussed.

Originality/value

This paper increases the understanding of the role of reputation in the CSP‐FP relationship. Owing to its rich pedigree in research in corporate branding and reputation, marketing is uniquely positioned to contribute toward the better understanding of this issue.
Learning orientation and market orientation
Authors: Mavondo Felix T. , Chimhanzi Jacqueline , Stewart Jillian
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper investigates the relationships among learning orientation (LO), market orientation (MO), human resource practices (HRPs) and innovation and their association with organisational performance. The aim is to show that HRPs and innovation are important mechanisms for transmitting the benefit of LO and MO into performance outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on extensive literature, a model of the relationships is developed and empirically tested using survey data collected from 220 businesses. Data are analysed through structural equation modelling and/or path modelling. The primary aim is to assess direct, indirect and total effects of LO and MO on performance outcomes through HRPs and innovation (conceptualised as administrative, process and product innovation) as mediators. The study carefully traces the effects of each variable to distinguish between indirect effects and mediated effects.

Findings

HRPs are a major mechanism for transmitting the benefits of LO and MO. In some models this is even more important than innovation. The results also suggest that LO should be viewed as exploration while MO is the interface between exploration and exploitation and, finally, HRPs and innovation must be viewed as exploitation or implementation issues.

Practical implications

The study suggests that marketers should include HRPs in models of LO, MO, and innovation to enhance the explanations of these to organisational performance. This study suggests HRPs and innovation are important mediators.

Originality/value

The paper suggests that marketers need to consider the impact of HRPs on achievement of marketing goals and organisational performance.
The artist and the brand
Authors: Schroeder Jonathan E.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that greater awareness of the connections between the traditions and conventions of visual art and the production and consumption of images leads to enhanced ability to understand branding as a strategic signifying practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Several prominent, successful artists served as case studies to illuminate the potential for insights into the interconnections between art, branding, and consumption by turning to art history and visual studies. Discusses the cross‐fertilization of art and branding, focusing on three contribution areas: the interactions between art, brands and culture, the self‐reflexivity of brands, and brand criticism.

Findings

Successful artists can be thought of as brand managers, actively engaged in developing, nurturing and promoting themselves as recognizable “products” in the competitive cultural sphere.

Originality/value

This paper places brands firmly within culture to look at the complex underpinnings of branding, linking perceptual and cognitive processes to larger social and cultural issues that contribute to how brands work and argues that art‐centred analyses generate novel concepts and theories for marketing research.
Rediscovering consumer‐producer involvement
Authors: Alexander Andrew , Nicholls Alex
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the value of a network perspective in enhancing the understanding of the business to consumer marketing of high‐involvement product categories. This is achieved through the analysis of the development of fair trade marketing in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses the research question through an analysis of relevant literatures from both marketing and other disciplinary areas. The paper is thus multidisciplinary in nature. Findings from a series of in depth, semi‐structured interviews with senior representatives of a fair trade wholesaler, of a specialist fair trade brand, of supermarket retailers involved with fair trade and of other fair trade labelling and support organisations are reported and discussed.

Findings

The relevance of an actor network theory (ANT) informed interpretation of the development of the fair trade marketing network is revealed. Its emphases on the processes of exchange and the role of human and non‐human actants in enabling interactions within the network are shown to be important. fair trade marketing is shown as occurring within an unfolding network of information exchanges. Analysis of this emerging network highlights a shift of emphasis in fair trade marketing from the fair trade process to fair trade products and, latterly, fair trade places.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the requirement for further conceptualisation of the business to consumer marketing of high‐involvement product categories, and reveals the potential of ANT as one approach to meet this need. The paper also provides a detailed insight into the development of fair trade marketing in the UK.
Developing strategic alliances in management learning
Authors: Thorne E. Ann , Wright Gill
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The notion of effective strategic alliances provides the basis on which this paper proposes a framework to manage the application and outcomes of management learning. The management of key partner collaboration emerges in this paper as a major success factor in determining effective management learning. A proactive structured approach to partnerships and alliances is proposed as a robust framework for management learning that is based on the advantages and effectiveness of management theories and concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes the results of a longitudinal research study of an inter‐organisational partnership; this paper explores the contributions, experiences and perceptions of the central stakeholders in management learning (HE, organisations and students). Through a case study approach to three collaborative projects, an analysis of the learning cycle of planning, designing, monitoring and assessing programmes is presented.

Findings

The results demonstrate that, as well as being a diagnostic tool, the framework underpinning strategic alliances – their formation, risks and challenges – provides the basis of an anticipatory and proactive approach to successful management‐learning partnerships. The research shows that, if stakeholders in the management‐learning relationship are to achieve their individual and diverse objectives, managing their interaction with each other and input into the process is essential. The need for partners to be explicit about their collaboration and each stakeholder's objectives is demonstrated. The learning agreement is a mechanism through which these desired outcomes could be made tangible and thus through which the strategic partnership can be managed.

Originality/value

The distinct contribution of this paper is that it brings together different management concepts to make practical use of the ideas of management learning. It provides evidence of successful programme design and delivery for management learning, as well as issues that have not worked well in the development of successful alliances, which underpin these programmes. Finally, the paper contributes to the continuing progression of thinking about the very nature of management learning as a theoretical framework to enhance the link between research, learning and the practice of management.
Human resources policies compared
Authors: Tomé Eduardo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To compare in a fruitful way the human resources (HR) policies that exist in the European Union (EU) and in the United States of America (USA). Nowadays, the world is evolving to a situation in which big economic spaces like Brazil, Russia, India, China, Japan, the EU and the USA are becoming dominant. Those spaces can learn from one another on how to guide their HR policies. The comparison between the EU and the USA is further justifiable because the EU seeks to become the world leader by 2010, and is facing a strong “neo‐liberal” ideological trend.

Design/methodology/approach

Having in mind the known theories on HR, the various types of welfare states that may underlie HR policies and also some basic questions regarding the practical organization of those policies are analyzed.

Findings

The EU comprises five different types of welfare states, the USA one. Regarding specific aspects of HR policies, for example, the role of the Federal authority, redistribution, eligibility and policy priorities and the evaluation procedures, the USA has the edge over the EU.

Research limitations/implications

This is an initial work. Further analysis could be made both enlarging the analysis to another cases (Brazil, Russia, India, China, Japan) and trying to find more specific and actual data on all the questions addressed.

Practical implications

Much caution should be taken in comparing HR practices, and transferring them, because E&T systems have historic roots and depend on the economic characteristics of the country in question. The EU should increase and improve its role in the command of HR policies in Europe.

Originality/value

An original study on the way of looking at the EU's HR policy framework and on the way of dealing with the question of the “Americanization” of the world, namely in the HR field.
Individual and contextual influences on multiple dimensions of training effectiveness
Authors: Chiaburu Dan S. , Tekleab Amanuel G.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate individual and contextual antecedents of learning, transfer of learning, training generalization and training maintenance in a work context.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested using hierarchical regression analysis on data obtained from 119 employees who attended training programs.

Findings

The data supported the relationship between continuous‐learning culture and supervisor support and training motivation. Although training motivation was directly related only to training maintenance, it interacted with performance goal orientation in affecting training transfer and generalization.

Practical implications

Practitioners interested in designing interventions directed at increasing similar training outcomes can use various approaches aimed at assessing and monitoring factors such as continuous‐learning culture, supervisor support and training motivation. More importantly, based on the current results, practitioners can manage selectively the performance goal orientation of their trainees, given its differential relationship with training outcomes.

Originality/value

The findings are valuable for researchers and practitioners. From a theoretical perspective, the study offers a better‐specified model of training effectiveness by including both contextual and individual factors important for improving training effectiveness. Practitioners can use these ideas to design corresponding training and training transfer interventions.
Training leisure centre instructors: client motivational profiles examined
Authors: Kniveton Bromley H.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate the motivations of clients attending leisure centres/clubs. It is noted that training programmes for instructors tend to neglect this, particularly in relation to the gender and age of clients.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study 460 recreational athletes including equal numbers of males and females in the two age groups, 17‐27 years and 37‐84, were interviewed and given a short questionnaire concerning their motives for taking part in activities in leisure centres/clubs.

Findings

It was found that both gender and age influenced motivations to participate and reasons for leaving.

Research limitations/implications

The need for instructors to be made aware of the very different motives driving recreational athletes to attend clubs was stressed, if client wastage is to be reduced.

Originality/value

This study shows that gender and age variables influence motivations for participation, with marked differences in motivations between males and females. This article pin‐points areas that instructors need to take into account when training and will be of interest to instructors in the leisure business.
Creating a profession: suggestions for the licensed trade
Authors: Pratten J.D. , Lovatt C.J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study some of the business and legal problems experienced by the licensed trade and to explore the need for greater control for entry to the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken has been to use an overview of the function of professional and trade bodies together with a detailed analysis relevant to the licensed trade.

Findings

The findings are that the dangers of anti‐social behaviour resulting from alcohol consumption, coupled with the activities of some licensees, suggest that a more professional group of licensees could benefit employees and consumers.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by being desk‐based.

Originality/value

The extra demands to gain a licence could be unpopular but, if the proposals led to fewer examples of business failure, a greater proficiency in dealing with customers and a greater awareness of the dangers of alcohol, then it would be of real benefit to the public. Is a Licence to Trade the way forward?
Recruitment and training policies and practices
Authors: Tanova Cem , Nadiri Halil
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide information on differences between recruitment methods and training practices used in SMEs and large organizations in Turkey, as a representative of a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey as designed by the Cranfield Network on International Human Resource Management (CRANET‐G) was used for this study. The survey aims to obtain data that is based on facts and it does not ask for information based on respondents’ opinions, attitudes or perceptions.

Findings

It provides information about recruitment methods and training practices used in organizations in Turkey. It suggests that, in Turkey, small businesses are more likely to rely on employment agencies, which are considered formal recruitment sources in order to fill managerial positions, contrary to the existing literature and theoretical propositions. Additionally, with regard to training practices, it shows that large organizations use more formal training methods compared with small‐and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Research limitations/implications

This study only includes SMEs and large organizations in Turkey as a representative of developing countries, but the findings may have implications for other developing countries.

Practical implications

A very practical study which provides further insights for academics and managers of both large and small organizations.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need of further enhancing the research in the field of HRM in developing countries, and offers practical help to individual managers operating in the same settings as Turkey.
Creating a learning organisation within the family business: an Irish perspective
Authors: Birdthistle Naomi , Fleming Patricia
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how a learning organisation can be created within the framework of the family SME in Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

No comprehensive list of independent family businesses in Ireland was available. To overcome this problem a pragmatic approach was taken in the construction of a sampling frame for this research. Primary data from a stratified random sample of independent unquoted businesses were collected. Data were collected from 121 family SMEs using a postal questionnaire.

Findings

The results indicate that micro, small and medium‐sized family firms display some of the characteristics of a learning organisation, but not all of them. Therefore, with strategic review, systems development and cultural change within family SMEs in Ireland, they have the potential to be learning organisations.

Research limitations/implications

This study used a single‐respondent, self‐administered questionnaire. Future research should incorporate analysing other members of the family business – family and non‐family members – so as to get a “wider” understanding of the family SME.

Practical implications

A major contribution of this research is the identification of an existing and suitable theoretical background that can be applied to the study of the family SME, thereby providing a frame‐of‐reference for the analysis of family SMEs as learning organisations.

Originality/value

This paper presents original findings in a highly relevant, but under‐researched field – the family SME as a learning organisation.
Management development in health care
Authors: Purcell Laura , Milner Brigid
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dramatic reforms in the health service in recent years.

Design/methodology/approach

Examines management development in health care, and explores the experiences of clinical nurse managers.

Findings

Duplication of agencies and multiplication of roles have led to tensions in terms of both the management and organisation of the health service and pressures to accommodate local and national agendas have proved difficult and, as such, a complex, bureaucratic organisation is seen to be the resultant outcome.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need of exploring the experiences of clinical nurse managers in the NHS.
Towards zero management learning organisations
Authors: O'Keeffe Ted
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This research paper is a distinctive element of an empirical study on learning organisations carried out between 1999 and 2002. It seeks to examine a whole range of issues that seem to permeate higher‐performing organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study design utilised both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

Findings

The core tenet of learning organisations is an ability to learn continuously while the subject of learning is learning itself. Within effective organisations the learning process is directed not towards procedures, principles or objectives in themselves, but towards understanding per se. This study found that within learning organisations the entire business ecosystem is one huge classroom and the leader who is capable of effectively harnessing the collective ingenuity of his employees will simply blow the competition away.

Research limitations/implications

The research was undertaken in large to very large multinational organisations and may not apply equally to those small to medium enterprises struggling for survival.

Practical implications

One of the outcomes from this research is the development of a new web site that allows individuals, groups or organisations to cost‐effectively identify training and development deficiencies from the comfort of their own office or work stations.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the everyday concerns of companies striving for superior performance and effective utilisation of resources. By comparing a very complex concept like learning organisations with the cross‐functional activity within a beehive, the author hopes to stimulate further debate on the true nature of leadership within high‐performing organisations.
The challenges of training with interpreters and translators
Authors: Cseh Maria , Short Darren
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a case study of an HRD team from the UK that delivers training to a large public service Hungarian organization with the aid of interpreters and translators.

Design/methodology/approach

The article takes the form of a case study.

Findings

The article acts to illustrate good and ineffective practices, and practical difficulties inherent in the acts of translation and interpretation within an HRD context.

Originality/value

The article helps set the base for best practice in similar situations, and will therefore be useful to practitioners undertaking work through interpreters and translators. Implications for HRD research are also presented.