bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative performance evaluation for supply chain system based on logarithm triangular fuzzy number‐AHP method
Authors: Yang Jianhua
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the efficiency and benefits of supply chain (SC) scientifically and validate the usability of methods on performance evaluation index system.

Design/methodology/approach

At the performance evaluation index, the enhanced balanced scorecards (BSC) are developed based on the BSC. Regarding society environment and future development, the construction of performance evaluation index system includes five aspects such as finance, customer service, intra‐flow process, learning and development, and society development within SC. The indexes of performance evaluation system are all quantified to achieve their practical application. Another new point is that the logarithm triangular fuzzy number‐analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method expanding from fuzzy environment and developing from traditional AHP method is creatively used to evaluate the integrative performance evaluation index system.

Findings

The enhanced BSC and the special AHP method can overcome some disadvantages that experts directly give definite numbers when the traditional method is used to value certainty and evaluate the qualitative index. It is a scientific qualitative and quantitative evaluation tool.

Research limitations/implications

Accessibility and availability of data are the main limitations affecting which model will be applied.

Practical implications

This paper is a very useful method for SC managers.

Originality/value

The new approach of performance evaluation index system is attempted due to structure and fuzzy sets. The paper is aimed at operational researchers, engineers and special managers.
Design, analysis and simulation of an optimal wage contract in firms
Authors: You Wenxia , Wang Xianjia
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and solve the problem of moral hazard in firms because of asymmetry information between firms and workers and to contract upon the workers' shiftless actions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on principle‐agent theory and human resource management practice, an optimal dynamic wage contract model is designed. By applying simulation technology, the dynamic wage contract model is compared to the general static wage contract model and the affects made by the optimal dynamic wage contract to workers and firms are analyzed.

Findings

According to the consequences of simulation, the dynamic wage contract has better characteristics and is more practical than the static one. In the dynamic wage contract, the current action of a worker has a persistent effect on the future outcome. It is proved that the dynamic wage contract is optimal to the firm. The optimal dynamic wage contract is renegation‐proofness. It not only can incentive workers to work hard and help the firm achieve Pareto efficiency, but also can smooth the firm's incentive costs and reduce the risk born by workers.

Originality/value

The paper provides some reasonable conclusions for the human resource management in firms.
The application of the Smith predictor with PSO in HAGC system
Authors: Yao Xiaolan , Yu Xiangtao , Wu Qinghe , Liang Qihong
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to solve the problem of a pure time delay in the hydraulic automatic gauge control (HAGC) system.

Design/methodology/approach

Smith predictor is selected to solve pure time delay of the HAGC system. The model of thickness predictor is identified by the extended recursive least square algorithm. The parameters of controller are adjusted by particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO). The simulation result shows that the Smith predictor has good response performance and anti‐disturbances ability.

Findings

The control precision of the HAGC system in the finished mill can be obviously improved by Smith predictor with PSO arithmetic. The Smith predictor with PSO arithmetic is suitable to solve the pure time delay in the HAGC system.

Research limitations/implications

Randomicity in rolling process and the effect of other mill stands are the main limitations based on which the model will be applied.

Practical implications

A very useful method to improve the precision of the strip.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new method of Smith predictor with PSO arithmetic is designed for a HAGC system in the finished mill to solve a pure time delay problem. The object model is acquired by system identification method.
Rough set for quantitative analysis of characteristic information in metallogenic prediction
Authors: Yuan Yan‐bin , Zhu Ya‐qiong , Zhou You , Sælthun N.R. , Cui Wei , Huang Jiejun
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extract the characterized mineralization information from large numbers of data obtained from geologic exploration based on rough set; analyze the inherent relation between mineral information genes and metallogenic probability, and offer the scientific basis for target prediction.

Design/methodology/approach

Mineral information includes all kinds of relative metallogenic information. In order to extract comprehensive metallogenic prediction information, it is necessary to filter initial observation information to emphasize the factors that are most advantageous to metallogenic prognosis. Rough set can delete irrespective or unimportant attributes on the premises of no information missing and no classification ability changing, without supplementary information or prior knowledge, which has important theoretic and practical value for metallogenic prognosis.

Findings

The association and importance of geological information referring to prospecting are found out through attribute reduction based on rough set.

Originality/value

The analysis of geological and mineral information based on rough set is a novel approach for high‐dimensional complex non‐deterministic polynomial problems which are predominant in geological research. The research successfully extracts characterized mineralization information to offer the scientific basis for target prediction.
Optimal selection of design schemes for a sparse distributed pile foundation based on fuzzy optimization theory
Authors: Lijuan Zhang , Zhangming Li
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish the optimization model of designs for sparse distributed pile foundation based on multi‐goals fuzzy optimization theory, to promote the application of the optimization model into project.

Design/methodology/approach

In the designing of sparse distributed pile foundation, there are many feasible design schemes, the selection of designs is a decision making of multi‐goals and factors. Owing to uncertain and imprecise environment in which the designing of sparse distributed pile foundation exists, the theories of fuzzy optimization are chosen as mathematical framework to optimize the design schemes.

Findings

Since relative optimal degree is used to judge, the optional result of using fuzzy optimization theories in sparse pile foundation design selection is more rational according to a site project.

Research limitations/implications

The availability of data and precision of index weight selection are the main limitations as to which model will be applied.

Practical implications

A very useful optimal method for the sparse pile foundation design selection.

Originality/value

The new approach of optimal selection for sparse pile foundation design due to fuzzy optimization theories.
Similarity model of chaos phase space and its application in mid‐ and long‐term hydrologic prediction
Authors: Zhang Liping , Xia Jun , Song Xingyuan , Cheng Xiaofeng
Published: November 2009

Purpose

With frequent floods occurring, and the fast economic development in China, attention must be paid to flood prevention, water supply, and forecasting precision. In particular, mid‐ and long‐term runoff prediction is being paid more and more attention by researchers, and it is also the most difficult problem to solve. The purpose of this paper is to apply chaos phase space theory to forecast river run off.

Design/methodology/approach

Because the hydrologic system is a complicated huge system, there exist high non‐linear characteristics in the space‐time change of hydrologic factors. According to theory of chaotic phase space, the paper established four models of the single‐point, multi‐point, lineal, and three‐parameter D(m,τ,k) models, they have stronger non‐linear mapping function and much more information in the time series than traditional ways.

Findings

The results of calculation show that the models are highly effective and worthy of popularization and application. It is reasonable and superior to use these models in mid‐ and long‐term hydrologic prediction.

Research limitations/implications

The method cannot reduce or eliminate the un‐prediction parts caused by the inner random factors, such as the noise information of the observed data.

Practical implications

The models are applied in the long‐term runoff prediction of Baishan reservoir.

Originality/value

The new approach of hydrology forecasting due to the theory of chaotic phase space. The paper is aimed at hydrology forecasting researches and engineers, especially those who dealt with the mid‐ and long‐term prediction.
On the broad‐spectrum analysis of general system theory
Authors: Zhang Yu‐xiang
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give broad‐spectrum analysis of general system theory, including the researching approach – dynamic structure approach, the study on general object system by broad‐spectrum analysis, and the study of general cognitive system by broad‐spectrum analysis, etc.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical basis of broad‐spectrum analysis is dynamic structuralism, which, therefore, leads to the fact that its methodology is dynamic structural methodology, including that from the perspective of generalized structure, that from the dynamic perspective (the fluxional viewpoint of structure and the transforming viewpoint of structure).

Findings

Generalized structural models of general object system (including general thing system and general dynamic system, general cognitive system and general value system) are given in this paper. It shows a unique perspective of broad‐spectrum analysis, its close relationship with general system theory and the viewpoints of many questions in general system.

Research limitations/implications

The details of the structural models in this paper have to be worked out.

Practical implications

The methodological principle for us to analyze, study, optimize, and control the general system is provided.

Originality/value

Generalized structural models of this paper originate from pansystem methodology and discrete mathematics. This paper has the value of methodology for those who are studying general systems.
Research on four kinds of uncertain preference information aggregation approach in group decision making
Authors: Jian‐Jun Zhu , Si‐Feng Liu , Li‐Hong Li
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to aggregate different preference information in group decision‐making process such as interval preference order, interval utility value, interval number reciprocal comparison matrix, and interval number complementary comparison matrix.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the consistency definitions of four kinds of uncertain preference information are defined. Then, the upper‐ and low errors are introduced to solve the inconsistent decision‐making case. Following that, the weight model for each uncertain preference is proposed, respectively.

Findings

The aggregation approach based on minimal group deviation errors is suggested in order to obtain the utmost consistent opinion. In addition, the consistency judgment level and consistency extent are defined owing to the aggregation result.

Research limitations/implications

The calculation scale is large, if many decision makers will attend group decision‐making process.

Practical implications

A very useful approach for aggregation of the different preference in group decision‐making case.

Originality/value

Because of differences in knowledge structure, judgment level, and individual preference, decision makers express their judgment preferences via differently structured decision‐making processes. Owing to the complexity and uncertainty of decision‐making problems and the fuzziness of human thought, it is unrealistic to depict complex problems in the certain preference style. For decision‐making preference structures, group decision‐making aggregation approaches include the aggregation on the same kind of preference structure and the different kinds of preference structures. The study on the aggregation of the same kind of preference structure has received a deal of attention, but study into the aggregation of the different kinds of uncertainty preference structures is still a new field.
Time for a “design turn” in IS innovation research? A practice report from the home front
Authors: Wastell David , Sauer Juergen , Schmeink Claudia
Published: November 2009

Purpose

In contrast to the behavioural paradigm of IS research, design science seeks to develop a body of practically‐oriented knowledge which will directly aid the design, implementation, and use of information technologies and systems. Design science, however, remains a minority practice. The purpose of this paper is to argue the case for its more widespread adoption, especially so in research on innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, the authors report an example of design science in action. Two experiments are reported, both concerning the design of the user interface for domestic heating systems. Of note is the use of a medium‐fidelity laboratory simulation (“microworld”) in this work.

Findings

Two specific substantive findings results. First that ecologically designed feedback, embodying a strong mapping between task goals and system status, produces superior task performance. Second, that predictive decision aids provide clear benefits over other forms of user support, such as advisory systems.

Practical implications

Whilst arguing the general case for design science, the study shows that there are formidable barriers to its wider promulgation. These include the challenges of constructing realistic meta‐artefacts, compounded by the complex, modal and uncertain nature of design theory itself. The practical value of the microworld paradigm is also confirmed.

Originality/value

Although research in this field has largely addressed the workplace, here the paper addresses the domestic realm. Further novelty derives from the use of the microworld approach. The argument that design science should draw more on the proven methods of “good design” (e.g. prototyping, user participation) in terms of its own praxis is also noteworthy.
Crossing the diffusion chasm: from invention to penetration of a telehealth innovation
Authors: Cho Sunyoung , Mathiassen Lars , Gallivan Michael
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to help explain the paradox between the high potential of telehealth innovations and their slow diffusion by investigating the challenges involved in a successful case.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a longitudinal study of a telestroke program from 2003‐2007 seen from the point‐of‐view of the inventors. The program was initially used by a network of hospitals; it faced several challenges when the inventors sought to diffuse it to a broader marketplace; but, the inventors eventually succeeded to create a viable technology and business model.

Findings

The authors offer a process model of this telehealth innovation consisting of four phases: invention, pilot test, commercialization, and penetration – with each phase demarcated by specific actors and activities. In addition, a chasm between the pilot test within a network of hospitals and the subsequent commercialization of a product aimed for the market is identified. Finally, the authors reveal how key actors negotiated the chasm to successfully diffuse the innovation beyond the initial hospital setting.

Originality/value

The paper offers two contributions. First, it contributes a new model of IT‐enabled innovation processes seen from the inventor's perspective and emphasizing the diffusion chasm as a key challenge. Second, it contributes a longitudinal, in‐depth analysis of a telehealth innovation from initial invention to successful market penetration.
Standardization as open innovation: two cases from the mobile industry
Authors: Grøtnes Endre
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to introduce standardization as a neutral arena for open innovation. The aim is to show that different policies towards open membership in standardization initiatives lead to different open innovation processes.

Design/methodology/approach

Two cases are used to illustrate the differences in open innovation processes. The cases are the Android mobile operating system and the service platform developed by the Open Mobile Alliance. The core process types introduced by Gassmann and Enkel are used to show the different open innovation approaches.

Findings

Both cases use open innovation to create standards. Open membership leads to a coupled process, while a more restricted membership gives separate inside‐out and outside‐in processes. The case lead by established firms in the industry has a process where radical innovations are introduced early in the process, while the case lead by newcomers has a process where radical innovations are introduced late in the process. The two cases have different approaches towards commercialization of the products. Android relies on third‐party developers, while the Open Mobile Alliance relies on their own members.

Research limitations/implications

The cases are from the telecommunication sector and based on standardization of large technical platforms. The findings might not be the same for other sectors.

Originality/value

The paper establishes open innovation as a neutral arena for open innovation outside the domain of any single firm. It shows how the openness towards membership influences the choice of open innovation processes.
Management of floods in Malawi: case study of the Lower Shire River Valley
Authors: Lumumba Mijoni Patrick , Izadkhah Yasamin O.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse some vital aspects of floods in Malawi by examining the case study of the Lower Shire River Valley. Whilst the world has many wars taking place and causing unbearable human suffering, natural disasters are also taking their toll on humanity in various ways. The threats of the flood hazard have become complex and interrelated whilst the number of the vulnerable is growing fast. Floods have not spared the peaceful country of Malawi. The whole of Malawi is virtually vulnerable to floods. However, the Lower Shire Valley has been one of the most affected parts of the country.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper has focused on the extent of people's vulnerability to the flood hazard and the effectiveness of its management in the area. It has duly analysed the risk reduction measures in practice and identified the various political, social, and economic factors that influence the management of floods in this valley. The study exposes the Malawi strategy towards flood mitigation as well as the situation and attitudes of the flood victims pertaining to the policies and the measures being utilised to address the hazard.

Findings

The study confirms that floods can be an issue of broad security agenda. Despite the entanglement of financial constraints, the study recommends that policy makers should make more effort to alleviate the lamentable situation in this valley.

Practical implications

It is a requisite to have a comprehensive approach and pragmatic policies as well as their implementation mechanisms. There is also a requirement for effective consultation, collaboration and coordination, progress monitoring and above all, the will.

Originality/value

Both the intensity and the frequency of floods are definitely indicating to be on the increase in the country while the capacity to contain them and to protect people to substantial levels is lacking. The paper indicates that the flood hazard has continuously made the habitants of flood plains in Malawi vulnerable and that the extent of vulnerability to the flood risk is very high in the Lower Shire Valley.
The application of digital elevation model for the interpretation of Klang Valley geological structure
Authors: Abd Manap Mohamad , Firuz Ramli Mohammad , Redzwan Ghufran
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to utilise the interactive view capability of the geographical information system (GIS) for the geological interpretation in Klang Valley, Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Topographical map scale of 1:10 000 was used to generate digital elevation model (DEM). The geological map was draped over the DEM to create a 3D perspective view. The geological interpretation was undertaken using the 3D capability of the GIS software.

Findings

From the study, five lineaments which could possibly be the newly identified faults and one lithological boundary have been delineated.

Research limitations/implications

Although these findings need to be rechecked in the field, they show the capability of the DEM application in structural geology interpretation.

Practical implications

The results obtained from this study demonstrate the capability of utilising a geological map draped over DEM for structural geological interpretation. Thus the technique may increase the interpretation accuracy.

Originality/value

The major outcome of this research is the possible use of DEM in the application of geological study.
Transforming debris management: considering new essentials
Authors: Ekici Siddik , McEntire David A. , Afedzie Richard
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review what is known about debris management and acknowledge that the effective removal of debris has positive impacts on communities affected by disaster. Four new concerns are introduced that should be considered during the debris management process. These include the recognition of additional debris types as well as the importance of evidence in crime scene investigations.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review on debris management is presented in this paper. It illustrates the relevance, amount, and types of debris in disasters as well as the need for advanced planning. Four new essentials are then discussed.

Findings

Those involved in debris management should consider how they will deal with excessive donations, human remains, animal carcasses and evidence collection.

Research limitations/implications

Although this research could be enhanced with practitioner interviews, the literature review is fairly thorough.

Practical implications

Lessons in this paper will help to bring about more effective and efficient debris management operations.

Originality/value

This research reviews the current state of knowledge and adds to it.
Crisis management
Authors: Khodarahmi Ehsan
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to gather arguments and counterarguments about crises management to date, in order to add value to the current knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

The originality of the concept has remained untouched. The whole idea of writing the literature review was based on what others have done to date and at what point further research stopped and why. This took place only by reading previous research and not conducting any primary research.

Findings

Crisis management is what almost all businesses have to have expertise in if success is sought. Based on this study one fit for all strategy is one of the main components of failure as well as failed crisis management.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that not enough has been done in this arena and future research is essential to establish why the majority of businesses do not in fact learn lessons from past mistakes. More importantly they do not take some issues as seriously as they should; which in turn leads to crisis, when management is difficult because the timing is too late. However they claim otherwise and have no factual justification.

Practical implications

Identifying the credible source of information and being flexible in terms of learning is the most important thing. There are various researches conducted, which are abundant with examples of successful as well as failed crisis management strategies. This paper brings research together in order to contribute to the current knowledge and let scholars and practitioners enjoy one of the latest literature reviews of crisis management with recent and real examples.

Originality/value

History repeats over time, but one needs to realise this and have the ability to update the solutions compatible with the faced situation and the time. The twenty‐first century is a complex era and needs sophisticated management with proactive and adaptable attitude. Managers normally forecast a situation and before it turns to crisis they deal with it prudently and control the whole situation professionally.
Media relations
Authors: Khodarahmi Ehsan
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify all important aspects of media relations researched by others and write a succinct literature review in order to facilitate the data gathering procedure for the future research in the field. Reliable references are quoted to fulfil the purpose of this paper.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to provide an easy to read literature review about media relations and explain terms by appropriate examples. This is done by reading other articles from previous research and reviewed contemporary issues in terms of media relations that businesses face and how they manage the whole process.

Findings

Throughout the course of the work, it was found that many small to medium‐sized businesses and organisations do not actually plan for their media relations and have limited knowledge of the concept. However larger organisations and conglomerates have a good understanding of media relations and use it as a powerful PR tool. Just a few of them integrate their media relations with other components of PR and this can allow some speculations.

Originality/value

Media relations should not be used when issues and crises rise; it is essential to have constant liaison with top media owners in order to be informed about what is going on in the market. This allows adopting/changing strategies when needed in order to earn more public trust, as well as proactively identifying potential issues. Such flexibility and relationship with the media helps businesses to hinder potential issues from being turned to any kind of situation, which may harm own brands and publicity. Therefore customers feel valued and the government trust that particular business activity, because it is in favour with the society. Hence it gives invaluable credit to the business of the company.
Applied digital library project management
Authors: Cervone H. Frank
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define and describe Pugh matrix analysis as a method for decision making when there are multiple criteria that must be factored into a decision.

Design/methodology/approach

Using theory and example, the author relates the use of Pugh matrix analysis to the successful selection of prioritized criteria in digital library projects.

Findings

Pugh matrix analysis (PMA) is useful as a method for determining a course of action as well as gaining consensus with a project team. Because it is based on multiple criteria decision analysis techniques, PMA can help a team understand the relationship of multiple issues within a project as well as the individual perspectives project team members and the user community bring to the issues at hand.

Originality/value

This paper fills a gap in the digital library project management literature by providing an overview of a useful tool to prioritize the issues, factors, and courses of action within a project that has multiple criteria decision points.
Exposing the history of Europe: the creation of a structure to enable time‐spatial searching of historical resources within a European framework
Authors: Aucott Paula J. , von Lünen Alexander , Southall Humphrey
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of a knowledgebase supporting a prototype Europe‐wide time‐spatial search interface for historical resources. It discusses how this structure could be used to access other types of digital heritage content.

Design/methodology/approach

By using a relational database with spatial capabilities, a multi‐lingual search structure has been created which supports a temporal map and a facetted browser, collaborative facilities and a heritage resource viewer, with links to online catalogues.

Findings

Combining data from three states with very different histories identified the strengths and weaknesses of the approach. The framework's flexibility means it could easily be re‐purposed to support front ends to other types of cultural content.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the variability in the administrative unit source data, its initial integration required significant manipulation to achieve consistency; however, the benefits of data assimilation ensure the base framework is as efficient as possible.

Practical implications

Usage levels of on‐line cultural resources will be far higher if ordinary users can access them via access routes which have meaning for them, such as by locality/place. Ontology‐based geographical frameworks are much easier to search by place name than are conventional GIS systems, and vastly more accessible to search engines.

Originality/value

This interface demonstrates the potential for integrating data from any number of different national organisations into a single user tool. It also highlights the potential for utilising the underlying structure in multiple contexts.
Migration management: an approach for improving strategy implementation
Authors: Getz Gary , Jones Chris , Loewe Pierre
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to investigates a process called “migration management.”, which the authors, Strategos consultants, believe that most companies need to link strategy development and strategy execution.

Design/methodology/approach

Migration management employs two core perspectives to achieve better strategy implementation – a “future state” description considers identity and a “migration path” charts action.”

Findings

By creating and properly using clear statements of desired future identity and sequenced, interrelated paths of action programs within management processes oriented toward learning and adaptation, companies have been able to overcome the dilemmas and challenges associated with traditional approaches to strategy implementation.

Practical implications

With the intermediate future state and the overall migration path as guides, managers can translate the migration path programs into specific projects and initiatives.

Originality/value

The paper introduces the “future state” concept, which articulates what a knowledgeable observer would write if asked to describe the successful company and its new competencies at the end of the strategy time horizon. The paper describes the process for designing the migration path, the roadmap for getting to the “future state” from the present.
What new general managers must learn and forget in order to succeed
Authors: Bottger Preston C. , Barsoux Jean‐Louis
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the surprises awaiting executives making the transition from functional to general management responsibilities – and offer a guidance system to help general managers (GMs) focus their efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on extensive discussions with and informal surveys of executives.

Findings

General management responsibilities differ greatly from functional responsibilities, both in degree and in kind. The gap is larger than most executives anticipate. The big surprises are not always those that they expected. The way companies prepare executives for general management can generate problems of its own.

Practical implications

GMs need a guidance system for diagnosing where to spend their time and a system for exerting influence – and the paper provides a template.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the ways in which the move into general management presents a massive increase in the complexity of responsibilities for executives and why it is so challenging for many. The framework helps GMs anticipate and master the challenge of general management – and helps them prepare and develop their own subordinates for a similar move.
A guide to choosing genuine opportunities for turnarounds
Authors: Shaughnessy Robert M. , Rudie Harrigan Kathryn
Published: November 2009

Purpose

For corporations seeking to boost market share or gain valuable assets, compelling turnaround opportunities seem to abound. In this paper the authors, who are veteran turnaround analysts, aim to share their experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

With so many distressed companies in need of turnaround talent and money, the paper presents lessons learned over the years by veteran specialists, which investors would be well advised to reflect on the before they leap into a thorny acquisition.

Findings

Within the middle group of stumbling companies are some genuine turnaround opportunities, despite the fact that they have been beaten down by the market and have performance problems that do not have obvious solutions.

Practical implications

Distressed companies fall into three categories: hopeless situations that no amount of time, money or effort can save; obvious winners that will revive as the current credit freeze thaws; and problematical situations that require a careful due diligence process to sort the lackluster survivors from those businesses that will best respond to skilled turnaround management. Only the last category offers compelling high returns that justify the resources committed.

Originality/value

The paper warns not to be seduced into trying to save a company that will limp along for years on life support systems or provide only negligible returns. Also to be brutally realistic about what the future could look like for a struggling firm and only put energy into potential winners and not into lackluster survivors.
B2B green marketing and innovation theory for competitive advantage
Authors: Vaccaro Valerie L.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

In these economically and ecologically challenging times, the purpose of this paper is to investigate how innovation theory can be used to design more effective, proactive B2B green marketing strategies in order to meet the triple bottom line of economic, social, and ecological sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper provides a literature review of green marketing strategies and competitive advantage, and relates it to diffusion of innovation theory in a new way. First, a brief overview is described of corporate social responsibility (CSR) theories related to green marketing, with this paper providing value by adding innovation theory to address the gap in the literature. Next, a discussion is provided on reactive and proactive B2B green marketing strategies, degrees of innovation, and diffusion theory research, and propositions are developed. Then, a new model is presented on B2B green marketing innovation strategies and competitive advantage. Next, a conceptual analysis is presented using a diffusion of innovation characteristics framework to show relationships of the innovation characteristics with proactive B2B green marketing strategies and competitive advantage.

Findings

Five propositions are developed to reflect the relationship of B2B green marketing strategies with types of innovations and competitive advantage. In addition, a conceptual analysis found seven areas of B2B proactive green marketing strategies related to the diffusion of innovation characteristics. Findings also showed diffusion characteristics are associated with 11 key benefits of sustainable B2B green marketing competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations and managerial implications are discussed. Also, this paper suggests recommendations related to diffusion of innovation characteristics in future research.

Practical implications

This paper provides a diffusion of innovation characteristics framework to test the effectiveness of B2B green marketing strategies and to help generate competitive advantages in an ecologically‐sustainable way. Managerial implications are discussed on how organisations can achieve successful competitive advantage while contributing to environmental sustainability for the common good of society.

Originality/value

This study addresses a gap in the literature on environmental/green marketing by being the first study to expand the CSR category of instrumental theories to include diffusion of innovation theory. Diffusion of innovation theory is applicable to green marketing because it includes new innovations (products, services, processes, etc.). An application of diffusion of innovation characteristics and their relationship to proactive B2B green marketing strategies can help shed light on how to increase the rate of adoption for green products, services, and processes to create a competitive advantage, and at the same time, help move the world toward greater ecological sustainability.
Green brand extension strategy and online communities
Authors: Chatterjee Patrali
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine current and prospective consumer perceptions, purchase intent and parent brand evaluation due to green brand – line and category extensions by marketers of established (non‐green) brands for products with high vs low perceived environmental impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses responses to online surveys by 602 pet‐owners at social networking websites. The quasi‐experiment considered perceived environmental impact of core product, parent‐brand user status, and green extension strategy (line vs category). Brand extension evaluation, purchase intent, and parent brand evaluation were then measured.

Findings

Results suggest that consumers are more likely to purchase green extensions of products with high perceived environmental impact and that current consumers prefer green line extensions to green category extensions. Both have similar reciprocal impact on parent brand evaluation among current consumers.

Research limitations/implications

The data have external validity but lack the control possible in laboratory experiments. Future research should replicate the study in other product categories.

Practical implications

Managers of established brands should consider brand extensions of products associated with high environmental impact only.

Originality/value

This paper examines managerial implications of line vs category extension strategies for green brand extensions of established brands.
The financial crisis in Europe: evolution, policy responses and lessons for the future
Authors: Goddard John , Molyneux Phil , Wilson John O.S.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an account of the financial crisis in Western Europe, primarily from a country‐level and banking sector perspective, from 2007 to the spring of 2009. It aims to detail measures enacted by governments and central banks to deal with impaired bank assets, recapitalize or otherwise resolve troubled banks, and inject liquidity into the banking system. It also aims to examine reform proposals aimed at creating a more secure and stable financial system.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on factual material and analysis that is presented in central bank reports, other banking sector surveys and reports, media reports, and analysis by leading academics and practitioners sourced from published articles and books, working papers and blogs.

Findings

Recent firefighting measures to purchase impaired assets, recapitalize troubled banks, and inject liquidity have commanded widespread support, despite moral hazard concerns surrounding publicly funded bank bailouts. However, the roadmap to recovery remains uncertain. There is concern that significant volumes of impaired assets have been retained on many Western European bank balance sheets. Under the regulatory framework that is being shaped in response to the crisis, banks are expected to become leaner, more strongly capitalized and less highly leveraged, and to develop improved risk management practices.

Originality/value

This paper is written for a broad audience to provide a descriptive summary of the financial crisis in Western Europe, a survey of the debate concerning the implications for bank regulation and an extensive bibliography that will serve as a valuable resource for banking academics and practitioners.
Value at risk: a critical overview
Authors: Sollis Robert
Published: November 2009

Purpose

A misplaced reliance on value at risk (VaR) has been focused on in the media as one of the main reasons for the current financial crisis, and the recently published Turner Review by the UK Financial Services Authority concurs. The purpose of this paper is to present an introductory overview of VaR and its weaknesses which will be easily understood by non‐technical readers.

Design/methodology/approach

Simple numerical examples utilising real and simulated data are employed to reinforce the main arguments.

Findings

This paper explains that some of the main approaches employed by banks for computing VaR have serious weaknesses. These weaknesses have contributed to the current financial crisis.

Research limitations/implications

Consistent with the introductory nature of this paper, the empirical research is limited to simple examples.

Practical implications

The evidence here suggest that if VaR is to play a major role under future financial regulation then research is required to develop improved estimation techniques and backtesting procedures.

Originality/value

This paper differs from many academic papers on VaR by assuming only a very basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics.
The future of regulation
Authors: Hindle Joanne
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the regulatory and other responses to the recent credit crisis with particular emphasis upon likely regulatory reform.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based upon an analysis of recent papers, speeches and articles to draw together common themes for regulatory reform across the European Union (EU). It pays particular attention to two key papers, that from the Chairman of the UK Financial Services Authority (The Turner Report) and from the senior EU Group, the de Larosiere Report.

Findings

It is suggested that some nine or ten common themes emerge for regulatory reform from the many authoritative writings on the subject and that the timeframe for change is very likely to be much shorter that is the norm for international action. However, some areas of debate are noted, for example, how the role of national vs international regulators is to be resolved.

Practical implications

All regulated financial services firms, whether banks or not, should expect a far higher level of regulatory intervention and with change occurring more quickly that would normally be expected.

Originality/value

In pulling together and analysing most of what has been written to date on the topic of regulatory reform the paper gives a unique overview of likely future developments. By identifying common themes it shows regulated firms the areas where more intervention is most likely to occur and highlights the timescale for that.
Small city community policing and citizen satisfaction
Authors: Lord Vivian B. , Kuhns Joseph B. , Friday Paul C.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of the implementation of community‐oriented policing and problem solving in a small city.

Design/methodology/approach

Citizen surveys that measure perceptions and activities of the police are completed before and three years after broader implementation of community policing. Because the existing literature supports the influence of a number of individual, neighborhood, and situational characteristics, several variables are included and controlled.

Findings

The results show that although the police invest a great deal of time building partnerships with and problem solving in neighborhoods, there are no significant differences over time in citizen satisfaction with police or in fear of crime. Personal contact with police mediates the influence of individual and neighborhood characteristics on citizen satisfaction. Police presence remains a common significant predictor of citizen satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Ensuring anonymity of subjects requires different samples between data collection periods; however, the same stratified random sampling process is used both times. The pre/post research design allows for measuring changes over time, but the lack of a control city threatens internal and external validity.

Practical implications

Citizen satisfaction is an important concern for all police and local governmental administrators; therefore, the findings of this study are useful for smaller agencies that are implementing or planning to implement community‐oriented policing.

Originality/value

With its focus on a small city and the capability to survey citizens before department‐wide implementation, this article expands research conducted on citizen satisfaction with police in a small town.
Does politics matter? Cross‐national correlates of police strength
Authors: Ruddell Rick , Thomas Matthew O.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the political, social, and legal factors that shape the deployment of the police in a cross‐national sample of nations.

Design/methodology/approach

Ordinary least squares regression models are used to investigate police strength in 70 developing and developed nations.

Findings

Controlling for indicators of crime, development, and population‐geography, it is found that political factors such as durability of the political regime, corruption, the presence of a black market, and state formation are significantly associated with police strength. Inconsistent with expectations, however, it is found that there is not a significant relationship between indicators of criminal justice system priorities, such as incarceration rates or use of the death penalty, and police strength.

Research limitations/implications

A lack of indicators of property or violent crime for large samples of nations makes it difficult to discount the role of crime in the deployment of the police. Further, cross‐national studies are hampered by a lack of data about the use of private security to bolster the formal activities of the police, or the role of the military in regulating social order.

Practical implications

This study builds on the theoretical knowledge of how the police are deployed. A better understanding of police strength can contribute to discussions about a global policing community. Implications for theories of policing and criminal justice system operations are also outlined.

Originality/value

Very few cross‐national studies of criminal justice system operations have been conducted, and this study increases knowledge of global patterns of policing.