bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and control of industrial effluent‐generated
pollution
Authors: Sangodoyin A.Y.
Published: July 2002

Evaluates existing systems of collection and disposal of industrial
waste water in the Lagos metropolis, Nigeria. Examines the rate of
generation of waste water in the paints, foods and beverages, battery,
textile, brewery, and pulp and paper industries. These include among
others some selected industries in Ikeja Industrial Estate, Lagos. The
cases chosen are believed to give a broad outline of organic strength of
industrial wastes as well as disposal problems. Results show biochemical
oxygen demand, pH and temperature range of 44‐6000mg/l, 4.5‐9.5 and
30‐40°C respectively. Identifies problems facing industrialists in
waste water treatment and disposal. Offers suggestions for minimizing
environmental pollution by industrial effluents.
Industrial waste pollution in the Kano river basin
Authors: Bichi M.H. , Anyata B.U.
Published: July 2002

Kano River basin, which serves as the main source of water supply to metropolitan Kano, is also used as receiving body for industrial wastes from Sharada and Challawa industrial estates. Of the three major rivers in this basin, the Salanta river was found to receive the highest pollution from the industrial discharges with COD of 8,557.4mg/l, total solids of 16,934.6mg/l, hardness of 1,349.6mg/l CaCO3, and ammonia nitrogen of 5,150.0mg/l. The Challawa river had COD of 598.7mg/l, total solids of 1,609.9mg/l, hardness of 1,332.0mg/l CaCO3 and ammonia‐nitrogen 400mg/l. Both empty into the Kano river where the COD was 1,166.9mg/l, total solids 1,458.0mg/l, hardness 2,506.8mg/l and ammonia‐nitrogen 530mg/l. Although these rivers are being used extensively for water supply, irrigation, and fishing, the quality of the water was found to be unsuitable for these purposes. The paper suggests that waste water pre‐treatment by all industries, imposition of direct charges on industrial effluents by the regulating agency, as well as continuous monitoring and surveillance are required to ensure the protection of the water resources in the basin.
Revisiting the role of Internet‐EDI in the current electronic commerce scene
Authors: Angeles Rebecca
Published: July 2002

The electronic commerce (EC) marketplace is evolving so rapidly that the role of EDI, the technology that originally kickstarted the EC phenomenon to begin with, needs to be clarified under current conditions. Explores the way the Internet is expected to spur much higher EDI diffusion rates at much lower costs across industries. Value added networks (VANs) that firms primarily relied upon for traditional EDI connections have also redesigned their software product and service offerings to align with Internet‐enabled possibilities. On a much larger scale, the electronic marketplace is itself being reorganized as Internet‐EDI (I‐EDI) facilitates the formation of intranets, extranets, and now, “supranets”.
Breaking down the barriers to free information exchange
Authors: Halhead Robert
Published: July 2002

The logistics industry has had to respond quickly to help
organizations survive the harsh business climate of the early 1990s.
Demonstrates how this is being achieved by re‐engineering the flow of
information around organizations to save money, speed production cycles,
improve customer services and attain competitive advantage, with the
result that logistics and supply chain systems are quickly developing
into highly efficient business networks through the use of new
technologies such as electronic commerce services.
Distribution control systems within the supply chain
Authors: Wilson Ian
Published: July 2002

Recommends a distribution control system which provides control of
information and resource allocation throughout all stages of the supply
chain, including delivery and sales order information, road traffic,
vehicles, pallets and drivers. Describes how the system provides
retrospective analysis and forward planning facilities and can be
tailored to the specific needs of individual user companies.
Continuous acquisition and life‐cycle support: the risks and benefits of early supplier involvement in the development process
Authors: Rigby Brian
Published: July 2002

Provides an overview of the uses and benefits in product development of early supplier involvement. Via a case study covers issues such as timing, identifying suppliers and tackling problems.
What makes reusable packaging systems work
Authors: McKerrow Don
Published: July 2002

Discusses the benefits of recycling packaging, the most obvious being cost savings. But other benefits are often more important, such as better storage facilities and ease of handling direct into retail display. Points to difficulties of quantifying benefits in advance. Lists areas where reusable packaging systems work best.
Relative index for downsizing employees (RIDE): a measure of performance
Authors: Karake Zeina A.
Published: July 2002

Adds to the existing level of knowledge regarding the general phenomenon of downsizing and its relationship to the level and pervasiveness of quality and performance in the organization. This purpose is accomplished by addressing two important issues. First, the development of an objective measure of the relationship between the level of downsizing and a company’s performance relative to its competitors; and, second, the empirical application of this objective measure on a number of large US corporations which have downsized their employees during the 1989‐93 period.
Maximise information systems value by continuous participative evaluation
Authors: Remenyi Dan , Sherwood‐Smith Michael
Published: July 2002

Proposes a continuous participative evaluation process built on the formative evaluation paradigm. The benefits of this approach are that all the primary or core stakeholders, i.e. the users, top management and the technical specialists involved in the task of delivering information systems benefits, participate in the evaluation and the subsequent decision making associated with the project. These stakeholders are consequently involved in moulding and realising an information system which is targeted to meet real business needs rather than just investment and project management criteria. This approach ensures that high quality information systems that deliver direct business benefits with which the user community can identify are implemented. It implies a new focus that encompasses concentrating on and understanding the business issues and how the information system will deliver real value to the organisation. It is the view of the authors that formative evaluation can help to maximise business value from information systems.
Evaluating information technology in dynamic environments: a focus on tailorable information systems
Authors: Patel Nandish V. , Irani Zahir
Published: July 2002

The question of evaluating evolutionary information systems is problematic because of the diverse range benefits and costs, which display differing natures. Increasingly, information systems have to cope with changing organisational needs that are further complicated by the limitations of “traditional” investment appraisal techniques. The complex interaction between the use of information technology (IT) and its changing organisational setting requires organisations to address how investments in IT/information systems should be evaluated. In this paper the authors consider the problem of evaluating IT/IS investments in dynamic organisational environments with a particular focus on tailorable information systems and the deferred systems design philosophy.
Rethinking the approaches to information systems investment evaluation
Authors: Serafeimidis Vassilis , Smithson Steve
Published: July 2002

Numerous information system evaluation methodologies have been proposed in the literature. However, most of them suffer from a number of inherited disabilities originating in the nature of their fundamental principles as well as the nature of information systems evaluation. Uses evidence from the evaluation literature and two case studies to address the multiple dimensions for evaluation practices. We focus on the context, content and process of information systems evaluation as a source of organisational change. We found a noticeable gap between the recent theoretical work on IS evaluation and the practices within the case study organisations. This was not due to any lack of knowledge but was attributed to contextual variables such as the organisational culture and the power of important stakeholder groups.
Layout design in manual picking systems: a simulation approach
Authors: Caron Franco , Marchet Gino , Perego Alessandro
Published: July 2002

Manual picking system productivity is greatly influenced by layout design (i.e. the layout scheme and the number of aisles). In fact, layout plays an important role in determining the expected length of pickers’ tours which is itself a relevant component of the time required to complete a given set of orders. This paper presents a simulation approach to efficient layout design of the picking area in picker‐to‐part systems using random or cube per order index (COI)‐based storage policies. The optimal number of aisles depends on both strategic/long‐term and short‐term decisions. Indeed, layout is a function of the total storage length which, in turn, is related to strategic decisions concerning the forward/reserve problem, i.e. the choice of the fraction of items to be located in the picking (forward) area. Moreover, layout preferences seem to be strongly affected by operating decisions concerning batch size, i.e. number of picks in a tour, and the adoption of a COI‐based storage policy. Some design guidelines are provided for both stable environments where the operating conditions are well defined, and for unstable contexts where conditions may vary.
Coaching continuous improvement in small enterprises
Authors: Alstrup Lotte
Published: July 2002

This paper describes the introduction of continuous improvement (CI) in three small enterprises with employees with little educational background. The approach adopted was carefully tuned to the actual situation and conditions in the firms. A key element in the approach was that facilitating the learning process of both the employees and the management was regarded as core to the continuity of the CI activities. The research suggests that, in order to create a climate of confidence, consultants hired as external coaches to support CI activities must, on the one hand, respect the owner‐manager’s need of sovereignty and the short‐term, “flexible”, style of the small enterprise. At the same time, their role is also to support the long‐term learning process. This requires these consultants to strengthen their abilities not only to cope with different and often unforeseen situations, but also to balance short‐term and long‐term issues.
Continuous improvement: the trade‐off between self‐management and discipline
Authors: Harrison Alan
Published: July 2002

Deployment of fresh approaches to organisational and human aspects has been a feature of many descriptions of the implementation of “new wave” manufacturing (NWM) strategies. Lists of common HR (human resource) practices accompanying the implementation of such strategies have arisen from survey and other work. But a common failing in such descriptions is either lack of prioritisation of the individual practices, or lack of warnings that there are trade‐offs between the practices themselves. While continuous improvement (CI) is one of the most consistent features of such lists, it is proposed that CI is, in fact, dependent on other HR practices. This paper describes the deployment of new wave practices in two different case‐study environments, using the Japanese “humanware” model to investigate the integration of technical and social aspects. By comparing results from two units of analysis in each case, it was possible to make conclusions about the nature of the trade‐offs at stake, and about the impact of other policies on CI in particular.
Continuous improvement along the supply chain: the impact of customer‐supplier relations
Authors: Kerrin Máire
Published: July 2002

Continuous improvement (CI) is argued to be a key mechanism in increasing competitive advantage for organisations. Research in this area has predominantly focused on questions such as “how to” introduce, develop and sustain CI within single organisations. However, there have been few attempts to examine these issues in more extended applications of CI, for example, in the supply chain. Through the illustration of one case study organisation, this article seeks to explore the type of models and structures appropriate for CI along the supply chain.
Effecting operational improvement through inter‐organisational action learning
Authors: Coughlan Paul , Coghlan David , Dromgoole Tony , Duff Dermot , Caffrey Richard , Lynch Kevin , Rose Ian , Stack Paul , McGill Andy , Sheridan Pat
Published: July 2002

Describes the National Action Learning Programme (NALP) and summarises some of the key attributes of the NALP approach that has helped to effect operational improvement in well‐established organisations. The programme represented an inter‐organisational action learning response to the need for organisations as well as individuals to acquire a capacity for operational improvement in the face of exponential rates of change. The establishment of a learning network, self‐assessment, feedback, action planning and evaluation of plans, action learning and reflection cycles, evaluation and distillation of learning emerged as key elements of the approach. Reflects in some detail on the experience of firms participating in one of the learning networks.
CAD/CAM Systems Integration:
Authors: Chen Chin‐Sheng , Wu Jintong
Published: July 2002

Addresses the need for a unified product information model and presents
a new representation scheme for mechanical component modelling using
shells as its principal geometric primitives for modelling form
features. The representation scheme was implemented using the ACIS
geometric modeller and C++ on a SUN SPARC/10 station. The advantage of
using shells is that both surface and volume information of a form
feature can be derived from a shell. Different levels of product data
representation can be integrated into a single model. Therefore, it
allows the user to model the geometry effectively and form features of a
mechanical part on one system.
Database Requirements for CIM Applications
Authors: Kappel Gerti , Vieweg Stefan
Published: July 2002

Changes in market and production profiles require a more flexible
concept in manufacturing. Computer integrated manufacturing (CIM)
describes an integrative concept for joining business and manufacturing
islands. In this context, database technology is the key technology for
implementing the CIM philosophy. However, CIM applications are more
complex and thus more demanding than traditional database applications
such as business and administrative applications. Systematically
analyses the database requirements for CIM applications including
business and manufacturing tasks. Special emphasis is given on
integration requirements due to the distributed, partly isolated nature
of CIM applications developed over the years. An illustrative sampling
of current efforts in the database community to meet the challenge of
non‐standard applications such as CIM is presented.
Accounting information system issues of FMS
Authors: Sriram Ram S.
Published: July 2002

Examines how FMS affects the accounting information system of
organizations switching to FMS and the traditional accounting practices
that change after organizations adopt FMS. Highlights some of the new
accounting techniques such as transformation cost and activity‐based
costing and also discusses the strategic impact of FMS.
Business process innovation in the mid‐1990s
Authors: Hewitt Fred
Published: July 2002

Argues that today′s rapidly changing competitive environment, cost
effectiveness and consistently high output quality are no longer enough
to ensure corporate success. A company′s business processes must also be
more responsive and flexible than those of its competitors. Innovative
ways must be sought continuously to provide technology to support
motivated, adaptable work groups dedicated to meeting or exceeding
customers′ requirements in the shortest possible time. Puts forward the
case of the Xerox Corporation, which in responding to the challenge of
primarily Japanese competition, has pioneered a number of approaches to
business process innovation, particularly in the area of inventory
management and logistics. Finds that by simultaneously redesigning
information flows, work processes and authority structures, the company
has radically improved not only the cost and quality of its delivery
system, but also its flexibility. States that the redesign techniques
are, in themselves, process independent, and should therefore be of
interest to managers and academics involved in process flexibility and
process innovation in general.
An artificial, intelligence‐based production scheduler
Authors: De Toni Alberto , Nassimbeni Guido , Tonchia Stefano
Published: July 2002

Describes a production scheduler, which utilizes a hybrid push/pull approach to scheduling and exploits the expert system technology in order to obtain satisfactory solutions. The scheduler is applied to a multi‐stage production and inventory system, managed by make‐to‐order, with a large variety of incoming orders. The search for solution is made in respect of the due‐dates and under efficiency constraints (minimum lot, maximum storehouse levels, etc.). Considers order aggregation, both at portfolio and production level. Provides a dynamic rescheduling mechanism. Outlines theoretical arguments in favour of the scheduler and notes practical advantages as a consequence of the application of the scheduler in a firm which utilized a traditional despatching system.
A hybrid simulation system for manufacturing processes
Authors: Petropoulakis Lykourgos , Giacomini Luisa
Published: July 2002

Describes the motivation, the initial implementation and tests carried out during the development of a combined discrete‐time and continuous‐simulation system intended primarily for the simulation of hybrid systems in manufacturing processes. The system, which is still under development, is the product of fusing two existing and independently developed packages, and the current implementation serves as a pilot design for evaluating the issues involved, both in terms of product development and in terms of the theoretical difficulties in combining discrete‐event and continuous‐time systems. The initial design has already been implemented and test simulations performed. Provides a superficial description of the system interface which is predominantly based on the existing interface of the discrete‐event simulator.
Customizing manufacturing strategy
Authors: Sackett Peter J. , Maxwell Douglas J. , Lowenthal Paul L.
Published: July 2002

Draws on the convergence in enterprise and manufacturing strategies apparent in the established theories and models. Develops this form through enterprise‐wide competitive dimensions into a customizable business environment and manufacturing technology/programme‐specific support framework. This generic framework links the competitive dimensions, the manufacturing‐enterprise, business‐process chains and the manufacturing typology; each is selectable and customizable for a specific manufacturing business operation. Describes the result which is a method of decomposing business goals into aggregate business‐specific, manufacturing‐performance indicators. These can be linked to measures of manufacturing performance and directly related to a manufacturing technology or a manufacturing programme.
Virtual prototyping for customized product development
Authors: Tseng Mitchell M. , Jiao Jianxin , Su Chuan‐Jun
Published: July 2002

Customized product development is facing the challenges of maintaining mass producibility and exploring customer perception on target products. This paper reports an approach by combining virtual prototyping (VP) with design by manufacturing simulation techniques. By constructing virtual prototypes, accurate assessments of mass producibility and customer acceptance will enable better informed design of customized products. The primary goal of VP for customized product development is to provide a multidisciplinary design definition and rapid prototyping environment for concept development and a tailored, scenario‐based simulation environment for concept evaluation within a single facility. This design environment facilitates the capture and utilization of information generated during the design phase, and the simultaneous generation, at design time, of manufacturing, materials, costing, and scheduling data, together with visual evaluation of customer perception on target products, hence supporting the implementation of concurrent engineering.
Evolution of production paradigms: the Toyota and Volvo cases
Authors: Muffatto Moreno
Published: July 2002

This article adopts an evolutionary perspective to analyse the similarities and the possibility of converging various types of production systems and in particular the lean production model and the Volvo production system. The evolution of the Toyota production system is studied from the point of view of assembly design, work organization and automation. Then the evolution of the Swedish model of production and its influence on the lean model is considered. Subsequently, the question of similarities and differences between the systems is studied in light of unique aspects of the social and cultural contexts where the production systems have been developed.
Supplier selection in developing countries: a model development
Authors: Motwani Jaideep , Youssef Mohamed , Kathawala Yunus , Futch Elizabeth
Published: July 2002

This paper attempts to fill a void in supplier selection research by developing a model for sourcing and purchasing in an international setting, particularly in developing countries. The emphasis of this model is to reduce the uncertainty of quality from these countries by not only determining quality through the standard avenues of selection such as ranking, rating, and comparison strategies, but by also looking in depth at the region and country involved as a supply source. International, regional, and country‐specific regulations on exports are included as sources of information regarding quality of products from developing countries.
A simulation study of WIP inventory drive systems and their effect on financial measurements
Authors: Taylor Lloyd J.
Published: July 2002

This simulation study explores and compares the potential benefits of three work‐in‐process (WIP) inventory drive systems and their associated inventory buffer characteristics. The three inventory drives are a push, a pull and a hybrid push/pull system. While these systems have some aspects in common, their buffer management systems vary. The statistical analysis associated with the study was based on data gathered from three computer simulated flow‐shop assembly line environments. Hypotheses concerning the financial performance measurements were established. The independent variables were controlled and manipulated for each of the models. From the statistical analysis, a conclusion was drawn as to which system would afford the operation optimum results. While inventory has traditionally been considered and is currently being shown as an asset from an accounting point of view, it is obvious from the findings of this study, that excess WIP inventory, above the minimal requirements for production, will have a negative effect on the financial measurements evaluated in this study.
A hybrid intelligent inference model for computer aided process planning
Authors: Ming X.G. , Mak K.L. , Yan J.Q.
Published: July 2002

Computer aided process planning (CAPP) is generally acknowledged as a significant activity to achieve computer‐integrated manufacturing (CIM). In coping with the dynamic changes in the modern manufacturing environment, the awareness of developing intelligent CAPP systems has to be raised, in an attempt to generate more successful implementations of intelligent manufacturing systems. In this paper, the architecture of a hybrid intelligent inference model for implementing the intelligent CAPP system is developed. The detailed structure for such a model is also constructed. The establishment of the hybrid intelligent inference model will enable the CAPP system to adapt automatically to the dynamic manufacturing environment, with a view to the ultimate realization of full implementation of intelligent manufacturing systems in enterprises.
A comparative study of six stage‐gate approaches to product development
Authors: Phillips Rachel , Neailey Kevin , Broughton Trevor
Published: July 2002

Some companies to aid the product development process have implemented a stage‐gate framework, as a high‐level representation of the activities required. Such a framework allows the development process to be closely monitored and controlled, using stages of work and review gates. Six different companies have been examined to show the variations in representation. Each approach was compared to a generic four‐staged framework. Companies which are organised mainly in cross‐functional teams adhere strongly to the four stages, namely a low‐phased approach. However, companies organised with a strong functional structure tend to have more phases and gates within each stage, i.e. a high‐phased approach. These additional phases tend to be placed late in the product development process rather than at the start where their effect would be greater. A generic representation of the product development process applicable to various organisations and industrial sectors, provides an architecture for carrying out any business process improvement project.
The worklife of the assistant principal
Authors: Hausman Charles , Nebeker Ava , McCreary Jason , Donaldson Gordon
Published: July 2002

Literature and research have substantiated a noticeable trend in the recognition of the important role the assistant principal plays in schools. Despite this awareness, the knowledge base remains inadequate to meet the needs in understanding this vital role in educational administration. Given this void, this article reviews literature on multiple dimensions of the worklives of assistant principals and analyzes survey data from 125 assistant principals in Maine to ascertain how assistant principals allocate their time, at what roles and activities they feel successful, and the relationship between perceived success and quality of worklife ratings. The findings highlight the importance of understanding functions of the role and adequate teaching experience before assuming the role. They also raise concerns about the minimal amount of time assistant principals allocate to instructional leadership and professional development, and the extent to which serving as an assistant principal prepares one for the principalship.
Real Estate Portfolio Analysis Using a Spreadsheet Optimizer
Authors: Byrne Peter , Lee Stephen
Published: July 2002

Discusses a spreadsheet tool called an “optimizer” which is useful for
examining certain real estate investment problems. Describes what this
tool is (a means of, for example, maximizing return while minimizing
risk) and how it functions, giving examples of calculations and
functioning. Concludes that such a tool is potentially powerful, but
that formulae could easily be set up incorrectly. Adds that
spreadsheets and manuals do not contain enough documentation for
beginners to understand results fully.
The Strategic Management of Open‐ended Property Funds
Authors: Bone‐Winkel Stephan
Published: July 2002

German open‐ended property fund shows that a strategic management of property investment is indispensable. Suggests that it is possible and fruitful to adapt the instruments for strategic management used by industrial companies to fit the needs of property companies (such as the five‐forces model and the value chain developed by Porter, the strategic portfolio analysis developed by McKinsey, etc.). In the long‐term perspective of institutional investors, dynamic factors such as use, flexibility, productivity and competitive advantages play a much more important role. These thoughts have led to the need to build an operational model for the analysis and “strategic” valuation of property portfolios. This kind of portfolio approach emerges as an effective and flexible instrument for identifying and visualizing strategic development potentials and problem configurations within the assets of open‐ended property funds and other institutional investors.
The role of international property in investment portfolios
Authors: Newell Graeme , Worzala Elaine
Published: July 2002

The growth in global investment opportunities has seen increased
interest in international property investment as an important element in
a mixed‐asset portfolio and has generated key international property
finance considerations. This survey of institutional investors in
South‐East Asia examines the property investment and finance decision‐
making processes used in considering international property. Key issues
to emerge from this survey are the desire for portfolio diversification
as the primary motivating factor for international property investment
and the high awareness of currency risk considerations. This high
priority on the financial considerations of currency risk is in marked
contrast to the findings of an earlier survey of UK/The Netherlands
property investors.
Service quality in retailing: relative efficiency of alternative measurement scales for different product‐service environments
Authors: Mehta Subhash C. , Lalwani Ashok K. , Li Han Soon
Published: July 2002

Current measures of service quality do not effectively capture customers’ perceptions of service quality for different types of retail stores. Explores the usefulness of SERVPERF, the perceptions component of SERVQUAL and a retail service quality scale (the DTR scale) in measuring the service quality of different product‐service retail environments. Specifically, investigates the relative performance of two scales measuring the service quality of retailers where goods purchase is the primary focus, against another where both goods and services are equally important. Results showed that the DTR scale was superior within the context of a “more goods and less services” environment, i.e. a supermarket, while SERVPERF was better for a retailing context where the service element becomes more important, i.e. an electronic goods retailer. This modified scale measured the service quality of an electronic goods retailer more effectively than either the DTR scale or the SERVPERF. Implications for retailers are discussed
Measuring the performance of retail managers in Australia and Singapore
Authors: Fraser Campbell , Zarkada‐Fraser Anna
Published: July 2002

A method for the development, validation and refinement of a performance measurement tool for retail store managers in Australia and Singapore is presented. This tool is based on a set of performance elements – measurable task‐related activities and behaviours – that, when combined, define the performing manager. While organisations in both countries were found to concur on the 50 performance elements which should constitute the overall measurement tool, the importance attached to several of the elements differed significantly between the two countries. This difference is a significant determinant of the transferability of retail management skills between the two cultures and has wider implications for the internationalisation of the retail environment where management from different cultures are required to co‐exist within a single retail organisation.
International retail franchising: a conceptual framework
Authors: Quinn Barry , Alexander Nicholas
Published: July 2002

Franchising has become a major driving force in the globalisation of service businesses. Likewise, international retailing has become an important feature of global distribution systems. This has been brought about through changing socio‐economic patterns, favourable political and cultural environments, and a shift from manufacturing to service based economies. Both developments have contributed to the globalisation of marketing activity. However, there remain fundamental conceptual inconsistencies in the literatures that explain the development of international retailing and the internationalisation of franchise operations. This paper considers the use of franchising in the internationalisation of retail operations and places the experience of retail operations that use the market entry strategy within the context of other franchising activity. The paper evaluates the literature on the internationalisation of retailing alongside the literature on franchising. It identifies the different perspectives that have emerged within the two literatures and conceptually reconciles the contradictions that exist.
Emerging markets and the internationalisation of retailing: the Brazilian experience
Authors: Alexander Nicholas , de Lira e Silva Marcelo
Published: July 2002

This paper considers the development of emerging retail markets with particular reference to Brazil. The South American region has only relatively recently seen the level of international retail interest previously seen in other global regions such as East Asia. The paper considers the development of retailing in Brazil and the impact of internationally derived innovation and direct international retail activity in the market. It considers concepts of retail internationalisation in the light of the Brazilian experience. The paper highlights important issues with respect to South America’s place in the evolution of global retailing.
Discount Clothing Retailing in the UK
Authors: Robinson Terry M. , Bailey Jayne
Published: July 2002

Discount retailing in the UK has taken on a higher profile over recent
years owing to the effects of the recession. Interest has largely
centred on the growth of discount grocery retailing and the potential
emergence of US‐style warehouse clubs. Nine discount clothing retailers
currently present in “conventional” retail environments were studied.
Examines in particular the nature of discounting and the business
practices employed by those discount retailers. Suggests that discount
clothing retailing in the UK is characterized by: both core business
discounters and clearance outlets; a high degree of planned purchasing
as a result of own‐label activity, information technology and
relationships with manufacturers; importance of image and service in
attracting customers.
Tourists′ Perceptions of Service in Shops:
Authors: Reisinger Yvette , Waryszak Robert Z.
Published: July 2002

Presents the results of an exploratory study on Japanese tourists′
perceptions of service quality in Australian shops. Eight areas of
service were examined: the shop assistants′ friendliness, politeness,
information giving, helpfulness, concern about customers, ability to
speak Japanese, ability to wrap goods, and financial exploitation. It
was found that in four out of eight areas of service – information
giving, helpfulness, concern about tourists′ needs and ability to speak
the Japanese language‐there were significant differences between
tourists′ pre‐travel expectations and post‐travel perceptions of
service. Explores the implications of these findings for the retail
sector and outlines recommendations.
Taking the English “Apple” to Spain:
Authors: Johnson Maureen , Allen Bill
Published: July 2002

From a 2.1 per cent share of the 0‐8 years childrenswear market in 1987,
Adams (a subsidiary of Sears) is now the UK market leader. With the
limited potential for further growth in the UK, Adams was looking to
Spain as a new market. Determined to minimize risks and maximize the
opportunity of what it saw as a window of potential in the Spanish
market, Adams decided to short‐circuit the traditional approach of a
long‐winded market test by conducting a programme of market research.
The aims of this research were to provide Adams with an understanding of
the childrenswear market in Spain and to gain an assessment of the
strengths and weaknesses of its UK proposition from the perspective of
the Spanish consumer. Discusses the background to the Adams launch into
Spain, and covers in some detail the approach to the research and
methodology.
A Framework for Network Planning
Authors: Davies Martin , Clarke Ian
Published: July 2002

Highlights the integral link between the location of a particular format
of retail outlet and the benefit which they offer to the customer
segments which they serve. Outlines a simple conceptual framework for
planning store networks which can be used as a starting point for a
variety of retail businesses. This depends on the degree of portability
of the product and the emphasis placed by the customer on the relative
importance of convenience and comparison in the buying process. Four
principle types of retail location positions are identified by the
framework and the main locational factors or “drivers” of the success of
each are explained. Underlines the importance of retailers recognizing
the ongoing nature of the network planning process, involving store
rationalization, relocation and refurbishment, as well as the roll out
of new store concepts. It is anticipated that the framework should prove
useful both to retailers setting out on a formal process of network
planning as well as to planning authorities who recognize the need to
understand the factors driving the locational decisions of the various
types of modern retail format.
Local Authority Responses to Retail Change:
Authors: Tomalin Christina , Pal John
Published: July 2002

Identifies some of the industry‐wide changes such as the
decentralization of retailing and the impact and implications for town
centres of retailing and its wider function. Examines the recent upsurge
of interest in town centre management in the context of current
government planning policy guidelines and ministerial statements.
Identifies the key components of successful town centres including
private/public sector partnerships and funding. Demonstrates, through an
examination of initiatives taken by two particular authorities, the need
for a flexible interpretation of the concepts of town centre management.
Strategies of Japanese Supermarkets in Hong Kong
Authors: Kawahara Yukiko , Speece Mark
Published: July 2002

Argues that, by the early 1990s, an estimated half of all non‐restaurant
food sales in Hong Kong went through supermarkets. Local independents
and small local chains cater to the lower end of the market. Two large
local chains focus on Hong Kong′s broad middle class and control over
half of packaged food sales. Some Japanese supermarkets also target the
local Chinese middle class. They define the two major local chains as
their main competition, and make little attempt to maintain their
Japanese identities. Other Japanese supermarkets are niche marketers.
They maintain their Japanese identities more strongly, and give more
weight to Japanese products. These stores are located in major shopping
districts rather than in the main residential districts. They target
expatriates, who may account for 30 to 40 per cent of customers.
Finally, one Japanese store has positioned itself as the top quality
supplier for the upper end of the market, and presents an international,
not Japanese, image.
Issues of gender and servicescape: marketing UK public houses to
women
Authors: Schmidt Ruth A. , Sapsford Roger
Published: July 2002

Using two complementary ideographic approaches, investigates the
impact of the servicescape on women′s experience of the public house
service encounter. Preliminary findings from both the focus group and
the in‐depth interviews conducted indicate that women perceive their
desired pub experience as diametrically opposite to that provided by the
traditional male‐dominated pub. In the latter, barriers to enjoyment
arise from the dynamic interplay between the physical environment and
the behaviour of staff. The latter, unless carefully managed, can act as
reinforcement of the behaviour of other established male customers,
whose actions have the effect of signalling to women that they are
unwelcome. These barriers are seen to be particularly strong on entry,
when getting served and when being seated. Explores how publicans can
make use of these crucial stages and shape the servicescape to
facilitate a more satisfactory encounter, thus enhancing loyalty among
female customers.
The cashless society
Authors: Worthington Steve
Published: July 2002

The cashless society, where clumsy and expensive‐to‐handle coins
and notes are replaced by efficient electronic payments initiated by
various types of plastic cards is a tantalizing prospect for the
twenty‐first century. Some of the interested parties stand to gain more
than others if the cashless society becomes a reality. Outlines the
rationale of those who are keen to promote the cashless society and the
implications for marketeers charged with winning consumer acceptance for
payment by plastic card. Commencing with a European‐wide view of the
European plastic card market, focuses on recent developments within the
UK, one of Europe′s leading countries in the use of plastic cards as a
means of payment. The plastic card payment product is analysed under the
three headings of pay later, pay now and pay before and a view is
offered as to the future prospects for each type of plastic card in
contributing to the development of the cashless society.
I hate shopping! An introspective perspective
Authors: Reid Rhona , Brown Stephen
Published: July 2002

Shopping is widely regarded as a major leisure‐time activity, but many people do not enjoy the shopping experience. Although these so‐called “apathetic shoppers” comprise a large and growing segment of the population, they have attracted very little academic attention hitherto. Using an innovative research procedure ‐ personal introspection ‐ provides an in‐depth insight into the mentality and motivations of the apathetic shopper. Highlights the sheer depth of emotion engendered by the retailing encounter; notes the social, non‐shopping considerations that intrude into routine forms of consumer behaviour; and draws attention to the practical, managerial benefits that might flow from pandering to the apathetic shopper’s needs.
UK retailers and AIDS ‐ an exploratory study
Authors: McLean Morag , Moore Christopher M.
Published: July 2002

Examines UK retailers’ attitudes towards employee welfare in general, and the development and implementation of policies in respect of staff with HIV/AIDS in particular. From the research results, provides a valuable insight into retailer motivation in respect of staff welfare provision and the methods adopted by retailers in the development of welfare policy; identifies the need to ensure that a credible support strategy exists in order that welfare policies, such as those related to HIV/AIDS, can be implemented effectively. Indicates that the management of HIV/AIDS within the retail sector is complicated further by the threat of criminal attack on retail staff and the potential for negative consumer reaction to policy decisions, and concludes by suggesting that the development of a considered response to HIV/AIDS is one which UK retailers cannot afford to ignore.
Adoption factors and electronic data interchange use: a survey of retail companies
Authors: Vijayasarathy Leo R. , Tyler Michael L.
Published: July 2002

Reports the results of a survey on Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) use in the retail industry. Finds that contrary to expectations, the extent of EDI adoption is fairly modest with few companies employing EDI for transactions other than purchase orders and invoicing. Discovers that the motivating factors for the adoption of EDI appear to be rooted in tangible economic gains such as reductions in inventory and operating costs and intangible benefits in the form of improved vendor relations and competitive advantage are also perceived as important antecedents of EDI use in the retail industry.
Retailing in Eastern Siberia and the Russian Far East: a tale of two cities
Authors: Robinson Terry M.
Published: July 2002

Examines the current state of retailing in two of the more remote regions of Russia ‐ Eastern Siberia and the Russian Far East. Examines categories of retail shop ‐ the department store, or more appropriately the “quasi department store”, the kiosk, food shops as well as markets and street traders. Suggests that there is little retailing in these regions that is in any way similar to that of the west. In an examination of ownership, the only evidence found of any multiple activity is the multiple ownership of kiosks and some multiple ownership through a trading company. Explores the ways in which retailing is likely to develop in the future in these regions.
Proactive retail strategies based on consumer attitudes towards the community
Authors: Choe Sang T. , Pitman Glenn A. , Collins Frances D.
Published: July 2002

Investigates the impact of retail customers’ attitudes towards local retail establishments and their impact on local retail trading behaviour. Heads of 206 households were interviewed by telephone in two separate Indiana towns, each located approximately 55 miles from a major metropolitan trading area. Findings indicate there is strong positive correlation between the attitudes of consumers and local economic performances. Poor attitudes of consumers towards local business resulted in a higher percentage of income spent outside the community, which may reduce the growth of local business and employment opportunity. The unemployment rate of the community with positive attitudes was 2.2 per cent compared to 7.5 per cent of the community with negative attitudes. Suggests that small businesses and local retailers should have a concept of competition and provide service and satisfaction to the customer, instead of sitting back and being complacent.
Retailing and the Internet: a perspective on the top 100 US retailers
Authors: Morganosky Michelle A.
Published: July 2002

Compares and contrasts use of the Internet for the 100 largest US retail companies. Discusses availability of Internet addresses and online status in terms of retail types (food, apparel, discount retailers) and differences between companies of various sizes. While a high percentage of retailers were identified as having Internet addresses (91 per cent), only 64 per cent were identified as currently online. Online presence was most notable for retailers selling electronics, drug stores and department stores. Somewhat suprisingly, apparel retailers did not exhibit a strong online presence. Online status did appear to be associated with company size, with lower sales volume companies somewhat less likely to have an online presence. Categorized and discusses accordingly analysis of the information contained in each retailer’s Internet site.
Camera observations of customer behaviour in fashion retailing: methodological propositions
Authors: Dodd Ian Clarke Christopher A. , Kirkup Malcolm H.
Published: July 2002

Attempts to construct consumer typologies are an enduring feature of retailing research and frequently centre on economic and demographic characteristics. Such research highlights the relatively poor understanding of real‐life consumer behaviour and, in particular, the need to develop more appropriate methods of examining the behaviour of consumers within real‐life retail settings. As a first step in a study designed to assess the role of group identity in fashion clothing purchasing, this paper outlines an innovative methodological approach. Based on the experience of a project examining customer behaviour in a major menswear fashion retailer in the UK, the paper outlines a technique involving video observation, coupled with individual in‐depth interviews, as an effective means of generating valid referential accounts of in‐store customer behaviour. The paper considers the ethical and practical problems associated with utilising such a methodology, and points out the managerial and marketing implications of the approach.