bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical success factors for lean implementation within SMEs
Authors: Achanga Pius , Shehab Esam , Roy Rajkumar , Nelder Geoff
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim of this research paper is to present the critical factors that constitute a successful implementation of lean manufacturing within manufacturing SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of comprehensive literature review and visits to ten SMEs based in the East of the UK were employed in the study. The companies' practices were observed to highlight the degree of lean manufacturing utilisation within these companies. This was followed by interviewing of the relevant and key personnel involved in lean implementation. Results were analysed and validated through workshops, case studies and Delphi techniques.

Findings

Several critical factors that determine the success of implementing the concept of lean manufacturing within SMEs are identified. Leadership, management, finance organisational culture and skills and expertise, amongst other factors; are classified as the most pertinent issues critical for the successful adoption of lean manufacturing within SMEs environment.

Research limitations/implications

Continued scepticism within SMEs about the benefits of lean to their business is one of the fundamental limitations this research faces. SMEs are, therefore, not very willing to provide useful information and data, timely for further investigation.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research project stems from the realisation of critical factors determining a successful implementation of lean manufacturing within SMEs environment. The results would provide SMEs with indicators and guidelines for a successful implementation of lean principles.
Time to market prediction using type‐2 fuzzy sets
Authors: Baguley P. , Page T. , Koliza V. , Maropoulos P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Time to market is the essential aim of any new product introduction process. Performance measures are simple quantities that indicate the state of manufacturing organisations and are used as the basis of decision‐making at this crucial early stage of the process. Fuzzy set theory is a method for using qualitative data and subjective opinion. Fuzzy sets have been used extensively in manufacturing for applications including control, decision‐making, and estimation. Type‐2 fuzzy sets are a novel extension of type‐1 fuzzy sets. Aims to examine this subject.

Design/methodology/approach

This research explores the increased use of type‐2 fuzzy sets in manufacturing. In particular, type‐2 fuzzy sets are used to model “the words that mean different things to different people”.

Findings

A model that can leverage design process knowledge and predict time to market from performance measures is a potentially valuable tool for decision making and continuous improvement. A number of data sources, such as process maps, from previous research into time to market in a high technology products company, are used to structure and build a type‐2 fuzzy logic model for the prediction of time to market.

Originality/value

This paper presents a demonstration of how the type‐2 fuzzy logic model works and provides directions for further research into the design process for time to market.
How does the industry work with sourcing decisions? Case study at two Swedish companies
Authors: Brannemo Anette
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to present how two Swedish companies work, or plan to work, with sourcing decisions. The aim is furthermore to analyze if their decision process, or parts of it, can be used as a base for building a rightsourcing decision model. In this paper rightsourcing is defined as; “the process to actively apply in‐and outsourcing strategically to be competitive now and in the future”.

Design/methodology/approach

Since the business environment is dynamic and the global aspects are increasing, companies tend to focus on what they do best‐their core competence. The concept of outsourcing has, therefore, been growing rapidly during the last decade. Many companies seem to have a vague understanding about the risks and benefits of outsourcing, except from a general idea that it will reduce cost. Many companies hence experience that sourcing decisions are complex and the need for a model supporting sourcing decision exist within many corporations. This is accomplished through a literature overview and a multiple case study.

Findings

The results indicate that a model for sourcing decisions ought to include, or be based on, following aspects, e.g. the companies overall strategy, the companies core competence, both qualitative and quantitative data and risk analysis. The sourcing process also ought to be made with a process approach, avoiding functional sub‐optimization. The results also indicated that financial evaluation and documentation of the decision is important.

Research limitations/implications

The multiple case study was conducted in one mechanical company and one engineering company from Sweden. The fact that the study only included two studies could affect the possibility to generalize the result.

Originality/value

This paper offers help to companies that consider sourcing decisions.
The impact of engineering changes on materials planning
Authors: Wänström Carl , Jonsson Patrik
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase the understanding of the impact of engineering changes on the materials planning process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a conceptual discussion and empirical data from a case study of a supply chain in the automotive industry, including end producers (two OEM companies) and first, second and third tier suppliers.

Findings

A framework comprising the situational dimensions of the engineering change was derived from the conceptual discussion and described in terms of product, supply, manufacturing, demand and materials planning characteristics. The empirical study shows the characteristics of the engineering change in the case company and how these have both positive and negative, as well as direct and indirect, influences on the materials scrap, administrative and transport/handling costs. The impact of the actual materials planning strategies is also shown. Another finding was that different engineering change situations exist within the same company. Thus, it is necessary to distinguish between them and to use different planning strategies for each situation. The paper discusses how such differentiated strategies could be developed in the case companies and in general.

Research limitations/implications

The case study focused on a specific product and materials planning situation in the automotive supply chain. Other products and materials planning situations resulting from the same engineering change would have different characteristics and should, therefore, be planned and controlled accordingly. However, the developed framework is a general one.

Practical implications

The appropriateness of a materials planning strategy differs between different engineering change situations. This calls for differentiated materials planning strategies based on the engineering change situation and materials planning characteristics. The framework developed in this paper describes the entire materials planning environment in engineering change situations in order to understand when and how to differentiate materials planning strategies.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils a need for a framework that describes the impact on materials planning from an engineering change perspective. This framework is the first step in the designing of a normative guideline for differentiated materials planning strategies in an engineering change situation.
AHP‐based evaluation of CMMS software
Authors: Braglia Marcello , Carmignani Gionata , Frosolini Marco , Grassi Andrea
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a structured methodology to permit an optimal selection of the best suited Computer Managed Maintenance System (CMMS) software within process industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis has been executed adopting a multi‐attribute decision making methodology, namely the analytic hierarchic process (AHP) technique. A specific hierarchic structure has been defined considering 46 criteria outlined via questionnaires and interviews with administration, production and maintenance managers of several industries. To improve the effectiveness of the methodology, AHP has been coupled with a sound sensitivity analysis.

Findings

The application of the proposed approach allows the maintenance practitioners to concentrate on a limited subset of CMMS applications and to compare their actual capabilities in order to select the right one, rather than considering only their purchase cost.

Practical implications

The methodology enables decision makers to restrict the selection process to a limited number of software programmes that better suit the actual requirements of the corporation's personnel and to help the managers involved in the choice to better understand what each software can offer to them to effectively help the management of maintenance‐related activities. Finally, the choice is driven by objective considerations rather than by subjective opinions, and the purchase and the following implementation of the CMMS can be better justified to the corporation top‐level management

Originality/value

The paper proposes a robust approach, structured and useful in practice, for the selection of a CMMS software, that takes into account multiple, often conflicting, criteria and overcomes the intrinsic limitations of subjective decisions
Perceptions of generic strategies of small and medium sized engineering and electronics manufacturers in the UK
Authors: O'Regan Nicholas , Ghobadian Abby
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present the main findings of a study conducted in manufacturing firms in the UK to determine the applicability of generic strategies to small and medium sized firms (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The Miles and Snow strategic orientation typology was used to examine the emphasis on the factors used to craft strategy and its subsequent impact on organizational performance. The study examined its applicability in two contrasting sectors: engineering and electronics.

Findings

Based on the responses obtained from 194 SMEs, the findings indicate that the main strategic orientation types present in this study are associated with different environment types; prospectors tend to perceive their environment as “dynamic” whereas defenders perceive their environment as “stable”. Distinct differences were found in relation to the emphasis of both orientation types on leadership, culture, strategy, and performance outcomes. Finally, the findings indicate that “prospectors” perform better than “defenders” and are twice as likely to be high performing. Smaller firms are more likely to be “prospectors” compared with firms employing over 100 staff.

Originality/value

The study confirms the applicability of the Miles and Snow typology to SMEs – a domain neglected in previous studies. The findings also depict the association between the attributes of the operating environment, organizational culture, leadership and strategy on both defenders and prospectors and the path to either high or low performance.
A methodology for integrated product development using design and manufacturing templates
Authors: Kamrani Ali , Vijayan Abhay
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The primary objective of this paper is to illustrate the development of an integrated product development environment using template‐based methodology. This system would thus act as an effective tool to reduce cost by foreseeing manufacturability constraints during concept generation phase. Concurrent engineering approach is applied to product and process development and thus the different phases of manufacturing are integrated together. The developed template system is then used for the design of a prototype using an electric motor.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, implementation of an integrated design based on templates is presented. The developed system components such as design calculations, component search, machine selection, process template retrieval and cost estimation. These components are integrated to relational databases. These databases contain all information required for integrated product and process development. Concepts used in developing the system are independent of the software used.

Findings

By using templates, the time required for new product development is drastically reduced. At the same time incorporating computer‐aided process planning into the system gives the designer a better understanding of the cost implications of the modified design with respect to manufacturing. The major challenge in implementing of such system is that any changes in the manufacturing facility have to be incorporated in the process plans stored. This can be a tedious job but can be overcome by using hybrid process planning approach instead of variant based approach.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed template systems can be further developed to be considered as infrastructure necessary for design within a collaborative engineering environment. Further research and development is necessary for implementation. Though, the result from this case is promising.

Originality/value

The paper proposes the structure necessary for the implementation of a template‐based system. The approach used in the development of the integrated systems could be used by small and mid segment industries which do not have enough resources for costly software upgrading and complex computer technologies. By using templates, the time required for new product development is drastically reduced.
Supply chains and the enterprise
Authors: Archer Norman P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a special issue on supply chains and the enterprise.

Design/methodology/approach

Introductory review and brief description of research papers in this issue.

Findings

To demonstrate the growing complexity and the multiple factors involved in structuring the enterprise effectively, references a paper by Iyer and Gottlieb that suggests an approach to enterprise architecture design. This integrates the internal and external environment, thus being highly relevant to supply chain issues.

Research limitations/implications

Implies that the broad research framework for enterprise architecture is relevant to the study of supply chain issues, but leaves the reader to discover whether this is the case by perusing the research papers in this issue.

Practical implications

Links enterprise architecture to supply chain issues of importance to industry.

Originality/value

Provides a descriptive framework for linking papers in the issue to general supply chain issues.
Implementation and management framework for supply chain flexibility
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Fantazy Kamel A. , Kumar Uma , Boyle Todd A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop a conceptual framework for implementing and managing supply chain flexibility in supply chain organizations. The framework suggests that supply chain flexibility should be implemented and managed using a three‐stage approach: required flexibility identification, implementation and shared responsibility, and feedback and control.

Design/methodology/approach

The major components of the proposed framework are based on a review of research in the manufacturing flexibility literature as well as the limited research in supply chain flexibility. The strengths and weaknesses of these frameworks, combined with a published empirical study were analyzed to identify the important issues that must be considered when implementing and managing supply chain flexibility, and those components that need to be incorporated into a new integrated framework.

Findings

This framework was constructed by synthesizing the strengths of other conceptual frameworks. As a result, the major components of the framework are supported by the current research on the implementation and management of manufacturing flexibility, as well as the current literature on supply chain management.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical research is needed to examine the nature and level of responsibility sharing among different supply chain partners as suggested in this framework. It is also important to empirically investigate what constitutes flexibility in the supply chain taxonomy in various industries. Another issue of managerial interest concerns the way different supply chain flexibility types relate to one another, and whether supply chain organizations should acquire certain supply chain flexibilities as a pre‐requisite for developing others. Further studies are necessary to further explain the contribution made by key enablers, such as information technology and communication, the internet, process technology, and training and labor skills, towards the acquisition of supply chain flexibility.

Practical implications

The implication of this new conceptual framework for managers is that it is easy to understand and is based on best practices in the research literature on manufacturing flexibility and supply chain management.

Originality/value

To researchers, this framework provides a springboard for conducting exploratory and confirmatory research on the process of implementing and managing supply chain flexibility.
A decomposition of total productivity growth
Authors: Kumar Surender
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To measure total factor productivity (TFP) growth in industrial manufacturing for 15 major Indian states for the period 1982‐1983 to 2000‐2001.

Design/methodology/approach

Uses non‐parametric linear programming methods; TFP growth is decomposed into efficiency and technological changes and also measures for the bias in technical change. The resulting information is used to examine whether the post‐reform period shows any improvement in productivity and efficiency in comparison with the pre‐reform period.

Findings

Findings of the present exercise indicate the improvement in TFP. The recent change in TFP is governed by the technical progress in contrast with similar gain caused by the improvement in technical efficiency in the pre‐reform regime. The technological progress in state manufacturing exhibited a capital‐using bias during the study period. Regional differences in TFP persist, although the magnitude of variation has declined in the post‐reform period. Moreover, it is also found that there is a tendency for convergence in terms of TFP growth rate among Indian states during the post‐reform years and only the states that were technically efficient at the beginning of the reforms remain innovative.

Originality/value

Decomposing state level data on manufacturing into technical change and efficiency change helps in identifying the directions biases in favour of labour or capital. Also, this analysis demonstrates the richness of linear programming technique that allows for an investigation of important research questions on the underlying processes that influence TFP growth.
Performance measurement in the value chain: manufacturing v. tourism
Authors: Yilmaz Yildirim , Bititci Umit
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This is a conceptual paper. Its purpose is to compare the performance measurement of manufacturing and tourism industries from a value chain perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper achieves its objective by reviewing the relevant literature from both manufacturing and tourism fields. It compares and contrasts the particular characteristics of both industries as well as the work done in these fields with respect to performance measurement and management in their value chains.

Findings

The paper finds that in the manufacturing industry the latest thinking in supply chain management, and consequently value chain management, has led to the development of performance measurement frameworks for the entire supply chain – such as the SCOR model. The tourism industry, on the other hand, consists of various players and tourism demand is met by the joint efforts of these players. Consequently, the interdependency of tourism organizations is high. Although recent works demonstrate an increasing interest towards performance measurement in the tourism industry, it is still an immature area. The paper demonstrates the usability of SCOR‐like frameworks in the tourism industry to manage and measure the value chain processes.

Research limitations/implications

The paper shows mapping of existing thinking on performance measurement against the proposed tourism value chain model reveals gaps for further research, such as: the need to study the tourism industry as an end‐to‐end value chain; the need for understanding and measuring the performance of front‐end win‐order and pre‐delivery‐support processes; and the need for managing the delivery process as a whole, rather than as two or three unrelated services.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the potential benefits of taking a value‐chain approach to the tourism industry as well as conceptually demonstrating how performance of such a value chain may be managed through a framework of performance measures.
Objective and self‐report work performance measures: a comparative analysis
Authors: Pransky Glenn , Finkelstein Stan , Berndt Ernst , Kyle Margaret , Mackell Joan , Tortorice Dan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the feasibility and comparability of daily self‐report and objective measures of work performance in complex office tasks, and factors affecting the correlation between these measures.

Design/methodology/approach

Medical bill auditors provided daily information for 12 weeks through interactive voice response (IVR) on their speed, concentration and accuracy at work, compared to their best job performance.

Findings

The paper found that 124 of 142 recruited subjects (87 percent) completed > 50 percent of daily IVR reports. Concentration, speed and accuracy were highly inter‐correlated (R=0.75), and right‐skewed (mean speed=7.7, SD=1.5). Mean adjusted daily productivity rate (MAP) was 34 bills/hour (range 4.7 to 111, SD12.6, 61 percent within‐person variation). Subject‐specific speed – MAP correlation varied from R=−0.20 to +0.75 (mean, 0.28). Health status, years on job, age, IVR completion rate, site, month of study, or total hours worked were not associated with these variations.

Originality/value

This paper provides an unprecedented level of detail in the comparison of self‐reported and objective daily measures of work performance, demonstrates the feasibility of data collection and analysis, and identified significant inconsistencies among workers in the correlation between the two types of measures. Results demonstrated that daily self‐reports cannot be used as a direct surrogate for objective performance measures.
Enhancing performance through the introduction of customer orientation into the building components industry
Authors: Karvinen Kauko , Bennett David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to describe an investigation into how company performance can be improved by integrating internal and external customers and technology. The approach was developed, implemented and evaluated in the operations of the building components industry. The research was carried out in the precast concrete division of a Singapore company.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose of undertaking the investigation an exploratory case study approach was used. This was divided into conceptual and action research stages. The action research was also used to implement the changes in the company. Questionnaire surveys were carried out among company employees and external customers to assess the effect of these changes. Results of the investigation were derived using content and statistical analysis. Triangulation between three sources was used for validating the data.

Findings

The exploratory case study strategy resulted in rich research data, which provided evidence of the changes taking place and integration happening, leading to improved performance. The action research approach proved a powerful tool where the uncertainty of outcomes makes it near impossible to make accurate forecasts. Another output of the research was the development of an “integrated customer orientation” (ICO) model.

Research limitations/implications

The research in this paper used a single site action research investigation so should be interpreted within the specific company and industry context. There are implications for theory and practice in a number of areas of production and marketing as well as contributions to understanding about productivity improvement and organisational development. The investigation also fulfils the dual objectives of action research by contributing to both knowledge and practice.

Originality/value

The paper describes a unique approach towards improving productivity, quality and service through the use of action research to implement changes, as well as providing the research evidence to evaluate both the process of implementation and results achieved.
What's your big picture?
Authors: Denton D. Keith
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to provide the reader with a perspective for keeping the critical aspects of their job in focus, despite an endless sea of details.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the research on “high performance work practices” and highlights the importance of establishing effective work systems.

Findings

The paper shows that the system of work you design dictates how successful you will be. Department of Labor notes many innovative work practices are not systematically applied.

Practical implications

The paper provides information about how to create effective work systems. This includes clarifying “who you are” and “where you are going”. Explains the difference between having a purpose and having constraints.

Originality/value

This paper specifically shows show each individual can clarify their “big picture” by using descriptive statements and use of relevant feedback. American Express is used as an example of how to incorporate some of the features.
Motivation model for improving productivity in a manufacturing unit – a success story
Authors: Prasada Rao Y.V.S.S.S.V.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a useful motivational scheme for a practicing manager to improve the performance of a manufacturing unit.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the main causes for the present low productivity of the manufacturing unit are analysed and a multi‐factor group incentive scheme is designed for motivating the employees in order to improve the productivity of a manufacturing unit.

Findings

This paper provides information about various factors having a bearing on productivity and performance‐reward relationship in a practical way.

Practical implications

The paper is a very useful source of information for practicing managers to motivate the employees for improving the productivity in a manufacturing environment.

Originality/value

The model presented in this paper may be of immense help to a practicing manager to improve the productivity of a manufacturing unit by motivating the employees.
What it means to be “critical” in relation to international business
Authors: Carr Adrian
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the usage of the word critical in the social sciences, to review how being critical is a process through which criticism is a positive act, and to highlight the relevance of such a perspective in relation to international business.

Design/methodology/approach

International business is viewed through the critical optic of the work of a group of scholars, collectively known as the Frankfurt School. Critical logic is shown to be a “destructive” and “disrobing” act to reveal buried presuppositions. It is argued that a form of negation occurs that carries an important reflective function through a modality of estrangement – it is destructive, but the destruction is revealed to re‐emerge in a positive act.

Findings

The term critical is revealed as a constructive processual activity. The pretentious nature of positivism that seems to pervade thinking in international business is disrobed as being some kind of science and instead revealed to be a discourse firmly in the realm of values.

Originality/value

A paper that is among few that rigorously interrogates the meaning of being critical in relation to international business.
Global business beyond modernity
Authors: Dholakia Nikhilesh , Fuat Fırat A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper sets out to provide global business managers and researchers with perspectives, concepts, and some tools to deal with emergent late modern conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical discourse is employed to outline the post‐enlightenment rise of modernity and rational economics. The paper critiques the nature of business institutions and practices under modernity, and points to the new conditions of waning and late modernity. Indications and guidelines are provided about the nature of new, emergent forms of global business under conditions of waning and eclipsing modernity.

Findings

The paper finds that the membrane separating global business organizations and their consumers is dissolving, and the new “post‐consumers” exhibit increasing levels of competence in terms of business practices. The paper reveals several aspects of global business under conditions of waning, late, and eclipsing modernity: transformation of business from and arcane, professional practice to an embedded everyday cultural practice; erosion of central control and business becoming diffused; imperative for collaborative forms where business managers work alongside post‐consumers; and breakdown of hierarchic order and rise of complexity and fluidity in business practices.

Originality/value

The main contribution is a cogent set of concepts that enable managers and researchers to understand, examine in detail, and deal with global business practices and organizational forms under conditions of waning modernity and emerging postmodern contexts.
Operating characteristics, risk, and performance of born‐global firms
Authors: Gleason Kimberly C. , Madura Jeff , Wiggenhorn Joan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To determine what characteristics distinguish firms that conduct international business within three years of going public and six years from founding, and how these firms perform.

Design/methodology/approach

A logistic regression analysis is used to identify characteristics that distinguish firms that are international at the time they go public, versus those that are not. The paper also assesses post‐IPO performance and apply multivariate analysis to determine how performance varies among these firms.

Findings

Compared to firms of similar age who do not pursue rapid internationalization, born‐global firms are generally larger, more diversified, and have more venture capital backing. Their founders, board members and managers exhibit more international experience. The returns 12 and 18 months post‐IPO are significantly higher for born‐global firms than for a control sample of firms who do not engage in rapid internationalization. Furthermore, those born‐global firms with joint ventures or acquisitions in several countries perform better than those that only export within the first six years since their inception.

Research limitations/implications

Managerial implications include having a board of directors with sound international business experience as well as using a venture capital firm to provide monitoring and oversight of operations at home and in the foreign market.

Originality/value

This paper is original in that it is the first to provide a financial markets‐oriented empirical investigation of the “born‐global” phenomenon using a sample of newly public American firms.
Intangible assets and firm diversification
Authors: Malone Christopher B. , Rose Lawrence C.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To re‐examine empirically internalisation and transaction cost theories of firm FDI.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical analysis based on cross sectional multivariate regressions and the Fama‐French three factor event study procedure. In addition to the key explanatory variables the paper introduces and models several important control variables.

Findings

The paper finds evidence consistent with the internalisation and transaction cost hypotheses. Firms classified with internalisation advantages earn event period abnormal returns of 6.84 percent above firms that are classified without such advantages. In support of transaction cost theory the paper finds that FDIs generate an average abnormal event period return of −2.36 percent. Further, in line with transaction cost theory firms classified with intangible asset advantages also tend to engage in the more complex forms of foreign and industrial diversification.

Research limitations/implications

The paper does not determined if the effect linked to the possession of intangible asset advantages is temporary or permanent. FDI is costly, but firms that enjoy high market valuations tend to do well in M&A or FDI activity.

Originality/value

The study provides new and strengthened support for internalisation theory. The study provides new evidence in support of transactions cost theory.
Exploring project success
Authors: Andersen Erling S. , Birchall David , Arne Jessen Svein , Money Arthur H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between project success factors and actual project success. It reports on an investigation into those factors within the direct influence of project managers that can make a real difference to the outcome of project endeavours.

Design/methodology/approach

Using principal components analysis (PCA) on 60 questions about actual project work performance collected from four culturally different regions (UK, France, Norway and China), nine distinctively different critical success factors were found. Similarly, using PCA on ten project success items, three distinctively different project success criteria were extracted.

Findings

The most important factors in improving managerial ability to deliver results in time and at cost were strong project commitment, early stakeholder influence, stakeholder endorsement of project plans and rich project communications. To secure project impact, strong project commitment and rich project communications were the main contributors. A well‐structured and formal project approach and well understood and accepted project purpose, implying high quality management, also scored high. Captured experience was best supported by a well‐structured and formal project approach and rich project communications.

Practical implications

As the project approach increases as a means for implementing strategic goals, project managers should devote increasing energies into rich communication both within the project and towards the project environment.

Originality/value

The study is cross‐cultural. It shows that successful project management, regardless of cultural differences, still depends on “hard features” such as professional planning and cost control, but that “soft skills” such as rich communication and learning from experience are prerequisites for project management to achieve superior project success.
Analysis of the Russian retail sector
Authors: Lorentz Harri , Häkkinen Lotta , Hilmola Olli‐Pekka
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims at providing a contemporary analysis of Russia's developing retail sector. Of special interest is the internationalization of this market through cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This is done by identifying major trends in this sector and providing projections concerning forthcoming acquisition activity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds primarily on second‐hand data. In addition to the analysis of macro‐economic indicators, the paper also provides three case‐based analyses of leading firms in the Russian market.

Findings

Previous research has shown that the retail industry is gradually saturating and further growth is sought through acquisitions and expanding into emerging markets. As the findings shows, Russia's two largest cities represent basically the driver of the economy, and constitute the platform for the growth of modern retail concepts. The Russian retail sector is currently experiencing gradual internal restructuring, and leading retailers have started to carry out domestic acquisitions and become listed in the stock exchanges. Furthermore, cross‐border M&A statistics show that Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries have been attractive targets for cross‐border M&A, while Russia is still following behind.

Practical implications

The paper presents recent data and related insights for global retailers planning expansion to the Russian market. Findings suggest that it will take approximately 3‐5 years until the market is developed enough for the global retail business.

Originality/value

The paper is a seminal study of Russia's retail sector and related M&A prospects, and can be considered a valuable platform for further empirical research in this field.
Taking qualitative methods in organization and management research seriously
Authors: Cassell Catherine , Symon Gillian
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the new journal and outline the rationale and aims and objectives ofQualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal(QROM).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers why there is a necessity for a journal likeQROM, outlines the scope of the new journal, and introduces the articles in the first issue. An invitation for further contributions to the journal is also given.

Findings

There is still a need for an outlet that both provides a showcase for the diverse range of qualitative techniques in use and promotes high quality qualitative research.

Originality/value

This paper is of use to those new readers of the journal, and those who wish to submit to the journal, in that it clearly outlines editorial policy and processes.
The error term in formative measurement models: interpretation and modeling implications
Authors: Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To clarify the nature of the error term in formative measurement models, as it had been misinterpreted in prior research.

Design/methodology/approach

The error term in formative measurement models is analytically contrasted with the measurement errors typically found in reflective measurement models.

Findings

It is demonstrated that, unlike in reflective measurement, the error term in formative models is not measurement error but rather a disturbance representing non‐modeled causes. It is also shown that, under certain circumstances, the inclusion of an error term is not necessary/appropriate.

Research limitations/implications

Focus is only on first‐order measurement models; higher‐order specifications are not considered.

Originality/value

The paper helps researchers in their initial specification of formative measurement models as well as their evaluation of the subsequent model estimates, leading to better specifications for formative constructs.
Generalizability modeling of the foundations of customer delight
Authors: Finn Adam
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This research seeks to present a methodology for investigating the generalizability of a theory‐testing model. The methodology is used to examine the generalizability of a model of the antecedents and consequences of customer delight.

Design/methodology/approach

Theory testing of models in the marketing often fails to define an intended universe of generalization. This paper shows how multivariate generalizability theory can be used to estimate construct covariance components for specific sources of variance. These components can then be used to assess the generalizability of a structural equation model of a marketing phenomenon.

Findings

The parameters of a model of customer delight obtained from data that sample customers of a service or data that confound sources of variance do not generalize to data that capture variation across services or variation across raters. The relative impact of customer delight and satisfaction on behavioral intention varies with the source of variation being studied.

Practical implications

Previous research suggests that after controlling for customer satisfaction, customer delight accounts for very little variation in behavioral intention. But, for the source of variation of most relevance to managers, namely web sites, it is customer delight, not customer satisfaction, that is strongly associated with behavioral intention.

Originality/value

The methodology can be applied and can produce model parameters having substantially different managerial implications for the management of customer satisfaction and customer delight.
Evaluating perceptions‐based marketing strategies
Authors: Mazanec Josef
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the comparative effectiveness of perceptions‐based market segmentation strategies: to what extent do consumers' choice rules and the distinctness and variability of consumer preferences determine the success or failure of PBMS strategies?

Design/methodology/approach

The computer simulation is run on an artificial consumer market. Its firm and consumer agents enjoy a certain extent of autonomy and a limited capability of learning. Strategies for incorporating the choice information into the firms' segmentation schemes, consumers' brand choice rules, initial preference patterns and their variability over time are factors in the experimental design.

Findings

The market factors “brand choice rule” and “distinctness” and “adaptivity” of preferences significantly influence the profit performance of the segmentation and positioning strategies. The distinctness of the initial pattern of consumer preferences turns out to be least influential while the choice rule is most important.

Research limitations/implications

Computer simulation cannot replace analyses of real‐world data. When, however, advanced explanatory models are made to fit to empirical data the results sometimes are disappointing (and then do not get published). Computer simulation on artificial markets assists in exploring the reasons for success or failure.

Practical implications

Boundedly rational consumers; product classes which are technologically homogeneous and subject to communications‐driven differentiation; consumer preferences that are directly inaccessible and must be inferred from actual brand choice; consumers' perceptions and preferences evolving over time are realistic settings.

Originality/value

Controlling for conditions such as the consumers' choice rules and the distribution and variability of preferences in real markets demands a prohibitive research effort. No empirical study so far has tried to systematically relate the profit performance of marketing strategies to choice rules and preference distinctness and variability.
Management discourse in the transition from communism to market economy – the case of Ukraine
Authors: Herasymovych Andriy , Nørreklit Hanne
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyse the ideological assumptions embedded in Ukrainian management thoughts in order to examine whether it matches the transformation from a communist society towards a more liberal society.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, the paper is based on Fairclough's model of critical discourse analysis.

Findings

The results suggest that there is a move away from Soviet and orthodox ideology towards liberalism. However, the discourse analysis also suggests that the manager controls are based on pre‐modern features embedded in orthodox ideology and to a certain extent in the shadow ideology of the Soviet system.

Research limitations/implications

The results have practical implications for the construction and implementation of management control systems in Ukraine. The features of the local Ukrainian ideology should be recognised, especially in the case of Western companies managing their subsidiaries in Ukraine. Thus, the results indicate to that, when western management approaches such as decentralised performance measurements models are implemented and insufficient consideration is given to the local Ukrainian ideology, they are likely to miss their objectives and to prove very disappointing. It is suggested that understanding the specific Ukrainian ideology of pastoral authority and personal relations may be crucial for the effective management of a business in Ukraine.

Originality/value

The investigation is relevant because an analysis of the ideological assumptions underlying the communication process provides insight into how Ukrainian management practice contributes to changing social structures and power relationships in the Ukrainian society.
Globalisation, reflexive modernisation, and development: the case of India
Authors: Pick David , Dayaram Kandy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use the theoretical insights provided by reflexive modernisation in examining the effects of globalisation on the development policies and trajectories of India.

Design/methodology/approach

After a presentation of the main ideas and concepts of reflexive modernisation and globalisation, the principal characteristics of the reflexive modernisation of India are identified and discussed.

Findings

This paper demonstrates that the development path taken by India is characterised by ambiguity, contradiction, and paradox. There is much doubt, uncertainty, and debate in academic, political, and social forums about whether India is on the right development path, as the nation attempts to graft western‐style capitalist structures and technologies on to traditional ways of life. Indeed, in its drive towards economic development and enhanced social well‐being India is at the same time compromising that development and wellbeing through the production of risks.

Research limitations/implications

There are two main limitations of this paper. The first relates to reflexive modernisation. It is a much discussed and controversial theory that requires further enhancement, particularly with regard to developing nations. The second relates specifically to India in that it is difficult to make generalisations about such a diverse nation.

Originality/value

In spite of its limitations, reflexive modernisation offers a sound theoretical foundation for alternative perspectives and policy approaches to development. As developing nations such as India engage with global economic, cultural, and political structures and institutions, they are at the same time transforming and being transformed by the influences that these structures and institutions exert.