bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who could blame me? I got it on sale! An investigation of purchase price disclosure as an impression management tactic
Authors: Bristow Dennis N. , Sachau Daniel A.
Published: June 2007

Surveys 72 female undergraduates at a US Midwestern university to establish whether or not people distort the purchase price of goods as a means of impression management, an, if so, whether they under‐ or over‐report the price, depending on their level of self‐esteem. Finds that people with low self‐esteem are more likely to use price as a surrogate indicator for taste. Links this to marketing theory in that consumers purchase products for their meaning as well as their purpose and as symbols to demonstrate social status and to communicate self‐image. Takes into account micro‐economics and the price‐quality relationship. Supposes that consumers would buy the cheaper article when confronted with two similar items at different prices but confirms that this is not necessarily the case.
Mintzberg’s “pentagon” and organization positioning
Authors: Drago William A.
Published: June 2007

Looks at Mintzberg’s pentagon model of ideal structures as a tool for describing organization structural designs. Surveys 91 US CEOs to test the validity of the model, in an attempt to provide greater insight into the model and its applicability to real life situations. Details research methodology. Fails to find a link between an organization with an ideal structure and performance, reporting that simple structured firms seemed to be the best performers, while hybrids and firms failing to score “high” on any ideal structure were also solid performers. Notes limitations of the study but suggests further research could expand knowledge of the structuring of organizations.
Doing business with dragons of different breeds: some important differences between China and Japan
Authors: Yu Wong Yim , Maher Thomas E.
Published: June 2007

Warns against expecting the Japanese and Chinese to behave similarly, despite common features of their national cultures and geographical proximity. Points out that China follows Confucian‐based business ethics based on connections, mutual trust and under the table dealings, whereas Japan subscribes to Shinto‐based business ethics, depending on perfection, product superiority, obligation, personal honesty and self‐sacrifice. Provides a brief historical overview of each country’s cultural and political dynamics, then draws attention to some of the important differences between China and Japan – China preferring a command culture, pragmatism, centred on the family and using punishment as a means of ensuring conformity, whereas Japan prefers a consensus culture, sentimentality, has a strong sense of nationhood and relies on praise to achieve required performance. Suggests that western businesses keep this in mind if they are to conduct business successfully in either or both of these two countries.
Time management in GDSS: a satisficing model
Authors: Chen Edward T. , Pete Chong P. , Chen Jason C.H.
Published: June 2007

Focuses on time reduction in meetings through the use of group decision support systems (GDSS). Reports on some criticisms of GDSS, in that it increases time taken to reach a decision, and addresses this issue. Refers to Grosch’s Law, the Satisficing Model, and the 80/20 rule (or Pareto Principle). Applies the 80/20 rule to the number of papers published by a number of authors. Plots a chart of the figures and finds that 77 per cent of papers are written by 23 per cent of authors. Links back these findings to GDSS and suggests that by controlling openness, some control can be exercised over the length of time it takes to reach a decision. Indicates that the use of electronic meeting systems will increase and, consequently, further research should be carried out in reducing uproductive meeting time.
Effective business management in Brunei
Authors: Wehner Marty , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Focuses on Brunei, briefly describing its geographic, demographic, economic, political, and cultural background. Highlights the ease of doing business in Brunei, particularly for US companies. States, however, that there are certain aspects of doing business in Brunei that bear thinking about, such as the use of local labour when there is little motivation for people to work because they are so well cared for by the state. Points out that, consequently, the most motivating factor in working is to feel part of an extended family organization, which is difficult if the headquarters are on a different continent. Suggests joint ventures as a way round this. Identifies how the notion of excellence differs between the US and Brunei, highlighting also shared characteristics of the two countries’ management styles. Criticizes Brunei’s complacency, which has resulted in a lack of productivity through people, and infers that the workforce needs to be better motivated if managers are to achieve competitive advantage for their businesses. Another attempt to impose “west is best” economies that are actually doing very well on their own.
Irregularities in annual accounting numbers: an empirical analysis ‐ the case of Jordan
Authors: Al‐Darayseh Musa , Jahmani Yousef
Published: June 2007

Focuses on Jordan and the plethora of laws relating to financial reporting, which resulted in the Jordan Association of Certified Public Accountants adopting the International Accounting and Auditing Standards, to be applied to all financial statements issued after 1990. Investigates the effect this will have and, particularly, if there are any accounting irregularities leading to income enhancement. Surveys 74 firms in the period January 1990 ‐ December 1994, with data drawn from the Amman Financial Market annual figures. Explains how the data was analysed and used to test the hypothesis that the occurrence of numbers appearing in the second place of income numbers in annual reports conforms to the expected random distribution. Indicates, from findings, that there is a small deviation from the random distribution for the second digit and that the annual reports consist of accurate accounting data.
Stakeholder influence and environmental sector volatility
Authors: Drago William A.
Published: June 2007

This study investigates interrelationships between environmental sector volatility and influence of organisational stakeholders. Environmental sectors considered include economic, political, social, technological, and competitive. Stakeholder groups assessed are customers, stockholders, creditors, suppliers of key materials and employees. Pearson correlations are used to identify significant associations between: (1) stakeholder groups, (2) environmental sectors and (3) stakeholder groups and environmental sectors. Numerous significant associations are identified between influence of stakeholders and volatility of environmental sectors. Regression analyses are performed to determine the predictive power of sector volatility on stakeholder influence. Significant models were formed for predicting influence of three stakeholder groups; customers, creditors and employees.
Franchising in Brazil ‐ experiences and perspectives
Authors: Mello Alvaro , Setton Fabrio
Published: June 2007

Offers an overview of the well‐established and growing franchising sector in Brazil, which encompasses almost 1,000 brands in 23 different sectors; lists the sectors involved and a number of the major foreign chains operating in the country, together with statistics on numbers of employees, turnover, initial investment by franchisees and payback time. Details the activities of the Brazilian Franchise Association (ABF) which exists to promote franchising in the country and has recently launched a training course for potential franchisees; considers the future prospects for franchising in Brazil.
How to hire employees effectively
Authors: Newton Donald E. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Sets out a procedure for recruiting new employees which will guarantee a good fit between the person and the job being filled. Advises recruiters to analyse the job carefully to understand the technical and personal skills the job requires. Underlines the need to update this job profile/description regularly to reflect changes in the job. Outlines how to develop a series of interview questions that reflect all the dimensions of the job. Also explains how to use behavioural questions to probe how the applicant handles tasks/problems in practice. Gives guidance on the interview process, indicating how to handle the interview, the type of information to give candidates, and the clues to look for in the reactions of interviewees to this information. Discusses how to record information about the interview, analyse the performance of the interviewee and make the final selection, including taking up references. Illustrates the advice with brief descriptions of procedures in US companies.
Relocation or dislocation? Key issues in the specialist management of group moves
Authors: Carter Simon
Published: June 2007

Indicates the number of employees relocated in the UK each year and the amount of company money spent on making these moves as smooth as possible. Reports a five‐year research project which suggests that these moves remain very stressful for employees. Argues that this dislocation was caused by managers failing to understand the group move process. Explains the scope of the research, the types of UK company studied and the methods used. Underlines the finding that those organizations that approach group moves as holistic processes, requiring complex management responses, are likely to be more successful than those that approach it in a fragmented and poorly‐integrated way. Also stresses the need to see the group relocation as an opportunity for managed change. Analyses the perspectives of all those involved in managing and making the move (policymakers, those managing the personnel side and the move, those managing the physical side of the move (selection of new premises, etc.), line manager and the individual employees who are making the move) to show the issues that need to be considered.
The effects of employee participation and work design on firm performance: A managerial perspective
Authors: Gyan‐Baffour George
Published: June 2007

Presents the results of a study looking at the influence of employee participation and flexible work design on productivity change and process quality. Considers whether there is a complementary relationship between participation and flexible work design and investigates if firms employing both of these items together perform better than others.
The relationship between age and seniority in American industry
Authors: Fenstermacher Karen S. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Highlights two schools of thought, the traditional idea of the older person being more senior within the workplace and the recent suggestion that they are out of date and inflexible. Advocates an era which recognizes the individual regardless of age together with an awareness of the breadth of creativity an experienced individual can add to the company. Suggests methods of recruiting may need revising so that the mature worker is not overlooked.
Simplicity/complexity as a dimension of strategic focus: effect on performance in different organisational domains
Authors: Drago William A.
Published: June 2007

Questions whether companies are in danger of becoming too narrow in their focus making their views too simplistic and perhaps ignoring other strategic factors which may be important. Lists arguments for a more focused simplistic strategy but then states that as organizations become more complex a wider view is required. Presents the results of a survey of 156 US chief executives suggesting that vertically integrated companies need a more complex strategy but product diversity leads to a more simplistic strategy and international scope appeared to have little effect. Concludes further research is required but initial findings suggest that a company’s structure and market may define the optimum simplicity of its strategic view.
Quality control for software warranties: a conceptual and economic perspective
Authors: Cope Rachelle F. , Folse Raymond O. , Cope Robert F.
Published: June 2007

Looks at ways software quality can be monitored and improved. Emphasizes the ability to deliver a software warranty by implementing the methodologies of statistical quality control in the software development process. Defines the quality of software, lists quality control activities and outlines the incomplete software life cycle. Provides a case study and looks at the economic value of warranty provision. Concludes that to work it must have good management but it could provide real changes in quality.
Deficiencies in communication and problem‐solving skills of business graduates: is the business curriculum at fault?
Authors: Sneed John , Ace Morgan Donald
Published: June 2007

Outlines the dissatisfaction of US accountant graduate employers in relation to graduates’ communication and problem solving abilities. Cites that technical abilities are good and reviews prior research in this area. States that whilst progress is being made in training and graduates are in fact stronger than in previous years, employers’ expectations have yet to be reached. Argues that this may be that other countries are developing their training at a faster rate. Advocates a strong partnership between academics and businesses.
Violence in the workplace
Authors: Whitmore Lisa , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the increasing number of violent acts which take in place in the US workplace and lists the main areas of risk together with the main associated costs to business. Looks at the dilemma faced by employers in screening applicants and the lack of information through bare references together with the liability/negligence potential if incidents occur. Lists measures which can be implemented to reduce risk, e.g. less cash, alarms and good lighting. Concludes that the trend towards more violence seems likely to continue and that employers must balance their obligations to ensure a safe environment with restrictions which limit their ability to weed out those with violent tendencies.
Building the quality organisation: what managers must do and the challenges they face
Authors: Rodrigues Carl A.
Published: June 2007

Reviews previous literature regarding quality in order to suggest a framework for a company committed to quality. Outlines the behaviours a quality firm must possess and discusses each in turn, considering all the stakeholders which must be satisfied to achieve total quality. Emphasizes the interdependence of all these factors for success. Briefly covers the problem of satisfying the conflicting demands of different stakeholders.
Do you need to be creative to start a successful business?
Authors: Scott Doug
Published: June 2007

Through the use of a case study of a high growth start up programme in Tyneside, examines 36 entrepreneurs as they start their own business. Cites previous relevant literature and considers the link between motivation and ideas and creativity. Suggests some implications and consider further research needed.
Local environment agency plans: new environmental management initiatives in England and Wales
Authors: Jones Peter
Published: June 2007

Describes the general character and aims of Local Environmental Agency plans. Briefly covers the Agency and it’s structure, outlining examples of work covered, such as recycling and water conservation. Briefly profiles some examples from Wales, explaining the issues faced and the programme aims. Identifies common themes which run through the varied plans and concludes that these provide an important framework for future, locally based environment management, emphasising community partnership and sustainability.
Anatomy of a qualitative management PhD. Part one – getting started
Authors: Carter Simon
Published: June 2007

Considers the requirements for an overall research strategy of a successful PhD. Provides pointers to enable researchers to balance practicality with academic research. Covers literature reviews, specifying the research problem and fieldwork using case studies to provide examples and compare approaches. Advocates a cubist methodology.
The revealing of an inherent oriental perception on TQM implementation in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Victor H.Y.
Published: June 2007

Considers TQM from a cultural perspective using the influence of Confucian work dynamism and Chinese cultural beliefs on Hong Kong companies. Asks if these cultural beliefs conflict with modern quality management philosophy and presents the findings of research covering Chinese literature, experts in Chinese philosophy and Hong Kong TQM experts. Outlines research methods and concludes that there are relevant principles which can be used when implementing TQM.
How to hire employees effectively
Authors: Sandico Cynthia , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Considers the consequence of hiring mistakes. Looks briefly at job and task analysis followed by recruitment and screening. Offers some tips for pre‐testing new employees before covering the interview and reference checks. Concludes that good planning and execution lead to a better quality intake and prevent future expense. Advocates the use of a second opinion.
Buying and selling sex: a preliminary examination of the service encounter
Authors: Jones Peter , Pratten John
Published: June 2007

Reports the results of a survey of the service encounters in sauna and massage parlours in the UK offering sex for sale. Draws evidence from a customer generated World Wide Web site and a case study of a small massage parlour in a small town in the north west of England. Concludes that the initial contact with the reception and the working girl is crucial to success together with the physical environment. Suggests that the woner’s ability to manage these in ways that recognize the client’s sensitivities and emotional needs will be vital for future sustainability.
Managing human behaviour in the airline industry
Authors: Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Devotes the entire journal issue to managing human behaviour in US industries, with examples drawn from the airline industry, trading industry, publishing industry, metal products industry, motor vehicle and parts industry, information technology industry, food industry, the airline industry in a turbulent environment, the automotive sales industry, and specialist retailing industry. Outlines the main features of each industry and the environment in which it is operating. Provides examples, insights and quotes from Chief Executive Officers, managers and employees on their organization’s recipe for success. Mentions the effect technology has had in some industries. Talks about skilled and semi‐skilled workers, worker empowerment and the formation of teams. Addresses also the issue of change and the training that is required to deal with it in different industry sectors. Discusses remuneration packages and incentives offered to motivate employees. Notes the importance of customers in the face of increased competition. Extracts from each industry sector the various human resource practices that companies employ to manage their employees effectively ‐ revealing that there is a wide diversity in approach and what is right for one industry sector would not work in another. Offers some advice for managers, but, overall, fails to summarize what constitutes effective means of managing human behaviour.
Moving on: transferability of library managers to new environments
Authors: Collier Mel
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss what the main transferable skills of senior library managers are when they move to a different work environment, such as from the academic to the business sector, or from a home country to another, possibly working in another language.

Design/methodology/approach

The difference between change of content and change of environment is discussed. The discussion is placed in the author's experience of these sorts of change. The various changes in the author's career are described and the differences between the sorts of change analysed. The key transferable skills in moving into new environments are suggested in conclusion.

Findings

Mobility into environments with significantly different structures and culture and a foreign working language is on the increase. Greater mobility, globalization and integration in Europe are likely to support this trend. Content and environment are two different aspects of this mobility. The key attributes that a senior manager brings to the new position are management experience, domain knowledge and a different perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The discussion is based on the author's own experience and observations.

Originality/value

The paper provides an analysis of experience of mobility between sectors, countries and language.
Working across cultures
Authors: Williamson Vicki
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to show a mix of career reflections and personal observations about the decision‐making process of changing employers and countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper covers some initial impressions of moving, living and working in another country, context and culture. It explores selected issues (some personal and some professional) and addresses the broader question of what factors impact such a move, such as environmental factors that are likely to make an overseas appointment an attractive and challenging career alternative.

Findings

Working in an international context might not be for everyone but those interested in working in another country can take some practical steps to help ensure a smooth transition to a new employer and a new country.

Originality/value

Provides a discussion on some important matters which need consideration when changing employers and moving countries. It is based on the personal experiences and observations of the author, who moved from Australia to Canada in 2006.
Managing libraries overseas: some challenges and opportunities
Authors: Jefcoate Graham
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to set out to give a personal view of potential opportunities and challenges to be considered when taking up senior managerial posts in libraries overseas.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings and recommendations in the paper are based solely on personal experience of positions in Germany and The Netherlands. Personal and professional issues are discussed as well as formal considerations and possible cultural differences.

Findings

The paper makes a number of recommendations and stresses the importance of agreeing on key issues/parameters with overseas employers in advance of signing a contract. The paper affirms the value – to both parties – of a library manager from one country taking up a senior post in another.

Originality/value

Based on personal experience, the paper provides practical guidance for those considering applications for senior management posts in libraries overseas.
Managing across cultures: the experiences of three Hong Kong academic library directors
Authors: Ferguson Anthony (Tony) , Nesta Frederick , Storey Colin
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the experiences of three western librarians in adapting their management styles for working and living in a new culture.

Design/methodology/approach

Three university library directors who have been working as expatriates in Hong Kong for 2 to 18 years were asked to comment on their own personal experiences in moving to a new culture, a new language environment, and new management challenges.

Findings

Moving to a new culture can be difficult for the expatriate and his family but work environments have many similarities. Developing an understanding of the local professional culture and working within is vital to success.

Practical implications

The paper presents some guidelines for librarians who may be seeking a career abroad.

Originality/value

There is very little literature on librarians, particularly those in management, who have chosen to continue their careers abroad. This paper provides first‐hand experiences and demonstrates that librarianship shares a certain commonality and that management skills can be adapted to new cultures.
A Scottish enlightenment
Authors: Hayes Helen
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the experience of working in Scotland as Vice Principal for Knowledge Management and Librarian to the University.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses some of the reasons for moving and the differences in approach to the job as well as some of the major library and management milestones achieved. It is also a personal view of the issues that were faced in changing countries and cultures.

Findings

The paper gives some findings on what one might expect by making a move of this kind and hopefully will encourage others to do so too.

Originality/value

The world is increasingly international and more accessible. This paper advocates a more international approach to career development.
Transplanting a Director of Libraries: the pitfalls and the pleasures
Authors: Schmidt Janine
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that library managers are increasingly moving from one country to another as globalization makes its mark. What constitutes good leadership and good management and are the skills and knowledge transferable?

Design/methodology/approach

There are cultural differences which must be understood. The cultural differences relate not solely to country or region but also to institutional variations and environments. Outlines the pitfalls and pleasures.

Findings

Library managers moving from one country and culture and one organization to another require considerable energy, knowledge and skill in making the change.

Originality/value

The pitfalls and the pleasures are outlined – and neither should be underestimated.
Consulting across cultures: librarians and project management in Vietnam
Authors: Robinson Michael
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a number of reflections based on the personal experience of working as a librarian in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is subjective and is based on the author's observations and conclusions as a project consultant to several philanthropic projects in Vietnam.

Findings

The paper briefly describes these library projects and then discusses some of the more significant professional and personal challenges and rewards they involved.

Practical implications

The paper provides some practical guidance on approaches to project management across cultures and on issues specific to library project management and consulting in Vietnam.

Originality/value

The paper is both a contribution to the small body of literature on the impact of philanthropic assistance and projects on libraries in Vietnam, as well as a personal narrative on the experience of working as a professional librarian in another culture.
Income Generation and Pricing in Libraries
Authors: Tilson Yvette
Published: June 2007

Reports on a survey of charging policies and practices in London‐based
public, academic and special libraries and information services with the
object of establishing which pricing mechanisms are in operation and
which services are being provided at a fee. The pricing mechanism cited
by most respondents was “what the market will bear” rather than a direct
adherence to cost‐based prices. The majority of libraries of all types
have formalized some sort of differential pricing scheme in relation to
user type and type of usage. There is a high commitment in academic and
public libraries to a basic free level of service. Regulatory charges
are largely the domain of public and academic libraries. Services acting
as candidates for the generation of income differ between library types,
but are mostly concerned with products rather than ideas/advice.
“Value‐added” work is largely conducted by special and academic
libraries.
Central and Eastern European business information
Authors: Drew Jo
Published: June 2007

Plots the changes that have taken place in the Central and Eastern
European region, and the impact this has had on access to and provision
of business information services available to aid managers in their
market investigations. Lists directories which provide a wide range of
information services and business organizations.
Chinese business information: a review
Authors: Drew Jo
Published: June 2007

Plots the changes which have taken place in China′s international
and trade activities in the last 20 years. Gives an overview of China′s
information industry; the relationship between government and trade
associations; and Chinese business information sources. Reviews sources
of business information, in hard copy and online format, which are used
regularly by the business community wishing to enter or expand in the
Chinese market.
Who bears the burden of wage cuts? Evidence from Finland during the 1990s
Authors: Böckerman Petri , Laaksonen Seppo , Vainiomäki Jari
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the incidence of nominal and real wage cuts in the Finnish private sector during the 1990s.

Design/methodology/approach

Estimation of econometric models for the probability of wage cuts using individual‐level wage survey data from the payroll records of the Finnish employers' organizations.

Findings

Centralized nominal wage freezes together with a positive inflation rate produced real wage cuts for a large proportion of workers during the worst recession years of the early 1990s. Hence, centralized bargaining shaped the adjustment. The share of nominal wage cuts does not increase with falling inflation, which is consistent with downward wage rigidities. Full‐time workers have had a lower likelihood of wage cuts compared with part‐time workers. Declines in wages have also been more common in small plants. There is an important transitory component in wage cuts.

Practical implications

Provides useful information about the adjustment of wages at the individual level.

Originality/value

Few papers have analysed individual and employer characteristics that account for wage cuts. The paper contributes to the literature on wage rigidity.
An examination of factors affecting repatriates' turnover intentions
Authors: Lee Hung‐Wen , Liu Ching‐Hsiang
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This study seeks to address the challenge of repatriate turnover by focusing on how effective repatriation adjustment, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment are at predicting the Taiwanese repatriates' intentions to leave their organization. By building on the cross‐cultural adjustment and turnover theories and researches, this study expands these recent findings to Taiwanese repatriates.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple regression was used to predict intent to leave and explain the impact of the three predictors on intent to leave. Correlation was used to compare the relationship of study variables.

Findings

The results of multiple regression indicated that repatriation adjustment was the strongest predictor of intent to leave followed by organizational commitment. The combination of the three variables can predict approximately 58 percent of the variance of intent to leave. Overall interrelations among the independent variables showed a positive strong relationship and negatively related to intent to leave the organization.

Practical implications

The results provide empirical evidence that repatriation adjustment, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment are negatively related to intent to leave the organization. Furthermore, the conceptual framework of this study can be a guide to future research in repatriates' turnover intention.

Originality/value

The results of this study may help multinational organizations in Taiwan to enhance the international assignment process of their employees and keep valuable human capital within the organization.
Impact of ISO 9000 on organizational climate
Authors: Kunnanatt James Thomas
Published: June 2007

Purpose

ISO 9000 yields visible and concrete benefits to organizations in the form of sustained product quality, enhanced market image, increased customer satisfaction, and long‐term profitability. However, the derivative impact of ISO 9000 on the human side of the organization, especially its impact on the internal human environment, has been only scantily researched. The purpose of this study is to explore how the process of ISO 9000 implementation transforms the components of organizational climate, particularly the climate motives existing in an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

ISO 9000 system was deemed as the independent variable that could induce changes in organizational climate, the dependent variable. Climate was measured both before and after the implementation of ISO 9000, using Pareek's MAO‐C instrument. Based on the scores obtained for the constituent climate motives, the patterns of organizational climate that prevailed in an organization both before and after ISO implementation were deciphered.

Findings

Results reveal that as a result of ISO 9000 implementation the dysfunctional organizational climate motives such as control, dependency, and affiliation undergo a u‐turn transformation giving way to the functional and conducive climate motives such as achievement, expert influence, and extension.

Originality/value

The study endeavors to throw light on the favorable impact that ISO 9000 may have on organizational climate of organizations. The findings tend to prognosticate that when implemented well the ISO 9000 system could function not just as a quality enhancement instrument but in addition as a useful tool for strategic change management that could truly hold the potential for transforming both the character and performance of organizations.
Three temptations of leaders
Authors: Kakabadse Andrew P. , Kakabadse Nada K. , Lee‐Davies Linda
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Despite the challenge of precisely defining the nature of temptation, this paper seeks to collect contrasting perspectives of this less attractive side of leadership and sets out to find a cure, or rather prevention, for falling into its grasp.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a literature review of the temptations to which leaders succumb, the results of focused and intimate case studies of highly respected leaders highlight just what they are tempted with and how and why they particularly may succumb to hedonism, power and posterity.

Findings

Extracts of interviews with an international sample of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and significant others reveal a distinctly human experience from which it is considered no‐one is exempt. Included in the sample were female top managers but no discernable difference between the genders could be ascertained. The idiosyncratic nature of response to temptation positioned each interviewees experience as unique. It is concluded that certain measures need to be implemented in order to control and reduce the darker human tendencies when exposed to certain conditions.

Originality/value

The paper offers suggestions on possible strategies that leaders can adopt to guard against temptation.
Evaluating the impact of organizational self‐assessment in higher education
Authors: Ruben Brent D. , Russ Travis , Smulowitz Stacy M. , Connaughton Stacey L.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize a series of studies conducted by the Center for Organizational Development and Leadership at Rutgers University from 2003‐2005. Motivating these studies is the recognition that organizational self‐assessment programs such as the Malcolm Baldrige program have achieved prominence and popularity. The paper seeks to focus on the value of the Baldrige program, and, more specifically, the impact of the Excellence in Higher Education (EHE) approach, an adaptation of the Malcolm Baldrige framework tailored specifically for colleges and universities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reports on a two‐phase investigation of six independent university departments that participated in separate Baldrige/EHE assessment workshops. Through a web‐based survey and in‐person interviews we were interested to discover participants' perceptions of the assessment process, the extent of knowledge acquisition, and extent of organizational change.

Findings

Findings suggest that self‐assessment does result in the acquisition of a knowledge and theory base; and leads to the identification of strengths and improvement needs. Results also indicate that in a majority of the departments, the assessment program initiated a genuine commitment to organizational change, one that led to a number of tangible improvements.

Originality/value

Enhancing our understanding of the relationship between knowledge acquisition and change is one of the most fundamental and enduring pursuits of social science – one that is absolutely central to organizational development. This study provides an empirical investigation of how these dynamics operate during organizational self‐assessment, an increasingly popular leadership tool for advancing institutions of all kinds.
Sustainable leadership ethics: a continuous and iterative process
Authors: Svensson Göran , Wood Greg
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The objective of this article is to develop and describe a conceptual framework of sustainable leadership ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a description of the inputs, actions and outputs of sustainable leadership ethics.

Findings

Sustainable leadership ethics is a process. In addition, it is continuous and iterative. The inputs, actions and outputs construct the dynamics of this continuous process.

Research limitations/implications

The conceptual framework aspires to be highly dynamic. The ultimate outcome is dependent upon the evolution of time and contexts. It is also dependent upon and provides reference to the behaviours and perceptions of people. It provides guidance on what and how to address sustainable leadership ethics in research. It provides a descriptive framework.

Practical implications

The framework proposes sustainable leadership ethics to be a continuous and an iterative process. There is no actual end of the process, but a constant reconnection to the initiation of successive process iterations of the sustainable leadership ethics. The conceptual framework also provides guidance on what and how to address sustainable leadership ethics in practice. It serves as a managerial framework.

Originality/value

It contributes to create a structure for sustainable leadership ethics in both research and practice.
Learning for leadership
Authors: Carr Wesley
Published: June 2007

Addresses the question of whether individuals, using psychoanalytic insights, can learn from their experience of leadership. Believes that leaders can develop insights in an experiential manner and concludes that most develop them by listening, hearing and responding.
Robots at NPE 2006, the Plastics Show
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to present a review of the NPE 2006, Plastics Show held in Chicago, IL with emphasis on robots, their application in the plastics industry and end‐of‐arm‐tooling.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews with suppliers of robots, injection molding machines, system integration of robots into plastic processing applications, control suppliers and end‐of‐arm‐tooling.

Findings

The plastic injection molding industry is moving to production cells with heavy usage of robot machine tending. The need for very short cycle times drives the interest in very fast agile robots with the ability to integrate easily into the production cell approach. New technologies such as in mold labeling also drive the need for suitable robots and competent system integrators to supply successful systems.

Practical implications

Robot builders need to continue to develop specialized robots and tooling to match with advancements in applications in the plastic industry. Users will need to think of robots as a necessary adjunct to any injection molding application.

Originality/value

Presents a review of the NPE 2006, Plastics Show, Chicago, IL, with emphasis on robots, their application in the plastics industry and end‐of‐arm‐tooling.
A force‐feedback six‐degrees‐of‐freedom wire‐actuated master for teleoperation: the WiRo‐6.3
Authors: Ferraresi Carlo , Paoloni Marco , Pescarmona Francesco
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to present an innovative example of a master for teleoperation capable of moving in six degrees of freedom and of providing a force and torque feedback on the operator's hand.

Design/methodology/approach

After a brief overview of what the state of the art in teleoperation has to offer, the paper outlines the choice of an innovative structure in terms of both geometry and components, pointing out its main characteristics compared with traditional interfaces.

Findings

The master for teleoperation WiRo‐6.3 has been designed and constructed and is fully operative, thanks to the following theoretical analyses: positional and orientation workspace(s), forward and inverse kinematics, statics, overall control strategies. The mechanical details are also presented.

Research limitations/implications

The WiRo‐6.3 is suitable to those applications in which human command is necessary but potentially harmful, and where a force‐feedback interface is preferred to obtain better control over the task to be accomplished. A possible field of interest could be the control of robot arms in dangerous environments, nuclear applications, uncomfortable climates, remote operations.

Originality/value

The master WiRo‐6.3 is a novel device both for its geometric structure and for the wire actuation choice; those characteristics provide very interesting results in terms of dexterity, force feedback performance and overall user‐friendliness.
Elasticity modeling and estimation for haptic contact using a DD‐robot
Authors: Hyuk Park Chung , Lee Bum‐Hee
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To propose a new haptic modeling and contact analysis algorithm (modified long element method (MLEM)) to efficiently model deformation, to estimate elasticity, and to provide the characterization of contact with deformable objects, which is important in teleoperation and haptic system.

Design/methodology/approach

Widely used finite element method for haptic rendering and visualization of deformable objects has limitations in real‐time applications because of its massive calculations and the absence of physical modeling. Using long elements method (LEM), the authors propose the MLEM which is capable of real‐time deformation rendering and elasticity estimation with reliable physical modeling. The authors applied MLEM to a simple haptic system composed of the three‐link SNU DD‐robot and a force‐feedback joystick.

Findings

An efficient, real‐time haptic modeling for deformable objects has been developed. MLEM provides physically accurate deformation modeling in real time, and estimates the elasticity of objects at contact, providing contact characterization based on material properties.

Research limitations/implications

MLEM has been applied to SNU DD‐robot, and displayed real‐time haptic visualization in 2D space. It can be applied easily to any haptic system with force sensors, and may have impacts on the applications of teleoperation, robot‐aided surgery and human‐robot interaction.

Originality/value

This paper offers a practical tool to the engineers in the haptics field for visualization of deformation. The efficient algorithm of MLEM can be placed on any haptic system with force sensors, and will improve the efficiency and accuracy of teleoperated haptic systems with real‐time analysis of haptic contact.
Identifying g: the current role of intelligence
Authors: Taub Gordon E. , Grant Hayes B.
Published: June 2007

Provides a brief description of Spearman’s g which has become the cornerstone for most theories of intelligence and highlights the social, scientific and political controversy in which this is surrounded. Discusses the identification of g before covering the criticisms, the physiological manifestations and the practical and social implications together with education. Summarizes that this construct routinely accounts for more variance than all other cognitive factors combined and so holds a high position in any model of the structure of human cognitive abilities.
Leadership training for improved quality in a post‐colonial, multicultural society
Authors: Day‐Hookoomsing Patricia N.
Published: June 2007

States that the implementation of dynamic leadership in an environment of social transition is a complex exercise. Defines those aspects of colonial heritage which have had an impact on initiatives to encourage more proactive and outward‐looking leadership styles. Continues by showing how the multi‐cultural composition of the population influences the acceptance of modern leadership practices. Discusses the difficulties encountered in leadership training programmes and the strategies needed to overcome these. Is based on findings in Mauritius.
Street vending and public policy: a global review
Authors: Bromley Ray
Published: June 2007

Provide a general contemporary overview of street vending around the world, focusing on the major issues underlying its permanence as a phenomenon, and the ambivalent attitudes displayed towards it by governments and off‐street business communities. Focuses on street vendors as an occupational group ad includes arguments for and against their existence, the impact of their geographical and economic location, and role of the government.
Street vendors, and postmodernity: conflict and compromise in the global economy
Authors: Cross John
Published: June 2007

Street vendors, modernity and postmodernity: conflict and compromise in the global economy explores street vending within the context of the shift from modernism to postmodernism, suggesting that the former implied crackdowns on the trade because of the ideals of public order and control whilst the latter is more open to such methods. Questions whether this new approach brings fresh dilemmas for the informal sector. Proffers the idea that the policy makers should allow deregulated sectors of informality in the economy to function as incubators for new industry.
Enlarging the street and negotiating the curb: public space at the edge of an African market
Authors: Bass Loretta E.
Published: June 2007

Outlines a case study detailing how a road enlargement project eliminated sidewalk selling space and restructured the edge of a major market in Dakar, Senegal. Explains how the crucial role of location for street and market trade to the fore, covering the ensuing negotiations which revealed powerful hierarchies based on gender, age and class. Shows how these shaped the process of duscussion and led to differential outcomes for individual traders.
www.openair.org: linking street vendors to the Internet
Authors: Balkin Steve , Morales Alfonso
Published: June 2007

Presents a discussion of an Internet Web site started in reaction to attacks on an historic street market in Chicago, USA. Takes an advocate’s perspective rather than an academic one and shows how the site developed to provide information about street vending around the world. Discusses the success and problems of using the Internet for the purposes of helping the poor on a shoestring budget.
Social exclusion and public sector housing policy in Scotland
Authors: Alvey Simon
Published: June 2007

Examines work investigating the impact of the crisis on social welfare policies two Asian countries — Hong Kong and Korea, and argues that these two states were not prepared for the crisis. States that Hong Kong is adopting a neoliberal approach to social welfare, contrasting this with Korea taking unprecedented steps to restructure the social security system, after its economy nearly collapsed, taking a more developmental approach to social policy. Posits that only time will tell whether Korea’s momentum of change can be sustained, while in Hong Kong social security policy will still be dictated by a neoliberal agenda in the near future.