bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of the organising model in higher education
Authors: Byford Iona
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This empirical paper aims to explore the effectiveness of the organising model from a worker perspective in unionised workplaces within higher education support services.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach is used in two university Unison branches. Three themes were used to measure the efficacy of the organising model: participation, identification with the union, and union effectiveness.

Findings

The findings were mixed in terms of the success of the organising model in this setting. In terms of the three themes of analysis, there was strong instrumental participation in union matters at the workplace but a lack of deeper penetration of the wider organising agenda in terms of identifying with the union, represented by half the respondents only feeling the salience of their union membership at the workplace. Most respondents felt their union was effective at the workplace in terms of improving pay and conditions but the effectiveness of broader union building aims as proposed by the organising model was not endorsed.

Research limitations/implications

The implications for the organising model from this research are that there need to be more resources and effort delivered at the workplace level through reps and members to make it truly effective and sustainable.

Originality/value

This research adds to a body of knowledge concerned with workers themselves and how they experience trade unionism at their place of work with the focus of their experience examined through the lens of the organising model.
Learning to share: mandates and open access
Authors: Anne Kennan Mary
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Online open access (OA) to research publications comes to scholarship as a vision that makes sense and is congruent with the aims of science and scholarship. It is argued that research, often funded out of the public purse, should be a public good. Given its visionary characteristics and its congruence with the aims of scholarship, the purpose of this paper is to examine why OA is not practiced by all researchers, all the time, or more encouraged by library managers.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings reported in the paper are built upon analyses of the literature, the current discussion occurring in e‐lists and other public forums, and upon qualitative research using observation, document analysis, interview techniques and thematic analysis conducted as part of a PhD study in two Australian universities.

Findings

One of the universities had a long‐standing institutional mandate to encourage OA and the other did not. In terms of findings, of the universities studied, the institution with the mandate not only had a far greater proportion of its research output in its OA institutional repository but also the researchers and authors interviewed there had a deep understanding of, and engagement with, issues surrounding not just scholarly publishing but also OA and other publishing options. Further, OA and the mandate policy were reported by university executives as providing benefits both to individual researchers and to the institution as a whole.

Originality/value

In analyzing the relationships and entanglements that exist between authors, universities, publishers and other actors we see how these reinforce the current publishing paradigm. While proposals for mandates are not new, this paper illustrates how one is acting in practice. It proposes that despite reservations among academic library managers a mandate can work in practice. Sometimes, a new actor, such as a mandate or deposit policy is required, to assist library and repository managers, to encourage authors to look beyond their existing frames and embrace OA.
Cities as long tails of the physical world: a challenge for public libraries
Authors: Galluzzi Anna
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to study if a link can be established between the role of new public libraries in contemporary society and the application of the long tail paradigm to the physical world (according to Chris Anderson's analysis in his 2006 book entitled The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More), and in particular if these new libraries can learn new, useful lessons for their collection and service planning starting from this point.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis will be carried out through theoretical means and the proposal of some case studies of newly built public libraries in Europe. In particular, an Italian public library, the Sala Borsa Library in Bologna, an English one, the Whitechapel Idea Store, and one in Spain, the Jaume Fuster Library. Each of these libraries will offer a different point of view and a different answer for strengthening the relationship between public libraries and citizens' needs.

Findings

The proposed theoretical analysis and the case studies raise the need to evaluate the existing public libraries and to plan the new ones in relation to the following issues: the long tail paradigm, together with other trends characterising the contemporary urban lifestyles, put the survival of public libraries under threat, because a generic offer with limited choice finds no place in today's cultural and economic landscape anymore; central public libraries need to rely upon large and functional buildings, comprehensive collections encompassing hits and niches, extensive opening hours, a broad variety of services and edutainment activities and an aptitude to embody a social role; local/branch libraries cannot survive below certain sizes, unless they bet on very specific niches of the public, for example either people who are less willing or unable to move around the city very much (elderly people, children, disabled people and so on) or topics and subjects which are only superficially covered by other libraries and suppliers on the territory; and in general, public libraries should emphasise their role as service desks functioning as a go‐between for other – more specialised – bibliographic services and for other learning, informative, entertaining and cultural opportunities inside and outside the metropolitan area.

Originality/value

An analysis of the consequences the long tail has on the future development of libraries has already been started in library science. However, no specific considerations have been taken on how the application of this paradigm could (and should) change the relations in the urban library networks and help big and small public libraries in finding new balance and complementary roles in satisfying citizens' needs.
Using online advertising to increase the impact of a library Facebook page
Authors: Chan Christopher
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of using online advertising on the social networking site Facebook in encouraging university students to connect with their library's Facebook page.

Design/methodology/approach

A two‐month paid Facebook advertising campaign was conducted. Using the tools provided by Facebook Adverts, the campaign was targeted only at current students at the university who were not already connected with the library's Facebook page. At the conclusion of the campaign, the statistics recorded by Facebook Adverts were used to assess how effective the advertisement had been in attracting new connections.

Findings

The campaign statistics showed that the advertisement was shown frequently to the targeted user group, and that the click through rate for the advertisement was high. Furthermore, the advertisement accounted for over half of the new connections made to the library's Facebook page during the campaign period.

Research limitations/implications

As the findings are based on the results of one campaign at a single institution, they cannot be used to make generalizations. However, the results may prompt further inquiry into the use of social network advertising in marketing academic libraries.

Originality/value

While previous studies have examined using Facebook as a free tool for marketing libraries, this paper explores the potentials of paid advertising on social networks. Given the finding that such advertising can have a significant positive impact for a relatively small financial outlay, practitioners could consider this as another means to build their own library's brand in a cost‐effective manner.
The gender pay gap in top corporate jobs in Denmark
Authors: Smith Nina , Smith Valdemar , Verne Mette
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the gender pay gap among CEOs, VPs and potential top executives. The authors seek to analyse how much of the gap is explained by differences in individual characteristics and how much is explained by firm characteristics and discriminatory processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper estimates compensation functions based on a panel of employer‐employee data set covering all Danish companies in the private sector with more than 50 employees during the period 1996‐2005.

Findings

The authors document that when controlling for a large number of observable characteristics and time‐invariant characteristics, there still exists a large gender compensation gap among top executives in Denmark. For VP and potential top executives, the estimated gap increased during the period 1996‐2005 while for the small and selected group of CEOs, the corrected gender gap decreased slightly.

Research limitations/implications

The study does not claim to identify causal links between top executive compensation and individual or firm specific background characteristics.

Practical implications

The extension of the family‐friendly schemes may have had negative boomerang effects on the compensation and careers of all women, irrespective of whether they become mothers or not. Especially for those women aiming to reach the top of the organisation, these effects may be important because potential career interruptions are expected to be more severe for this group.

Originality/value

This study adds to the limited empirical literature on the gender pay gap among the narrow group of top executives using a large panel employer‐employee data set of all Danish companies.
Mirror, mirror: preferred leadership characteristics of South African managers
Authors: Lee Gregory John
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate desired leadership characteristics of South African managers, and link differences in desired traits to contextually crucial demographic group differences and managerial advancement.

Design/methodology/approach

South African managers (n=205) ranked ten items of the characteristics of admired leadership scale. Aggregate rank analysis and nonparametric ANOVAs reveal significant preference differences in the sample and demographic sub‐groups. The research compares traits across managerial advancement and age, providing an implicit success test.

Findings

Managers most highly ranked the three “credibility” characteristics (competence, honesty and inspiration) prevalent in comparative worldwide studies. Key differences exist between managers and employees, many contextually crucial demographic sub‐groups, and higher and lower‐level managers of younger and older ages.

Practical implications

This research provides potentially important information for leadership identification, selection and development, in that it may identify characteristics that current leaders associate with contextual success. The research also identifies discrepancies between employees and managers and demographic groups, which may be sources of dissatisfaction or misunderstanding, and which organizations should address to better align expectations of subordinates and actions of leaders. Individuals might also use the information in self‐development, comparing their own views to successful leaders.

Originality/value

Significant informational and statistical advantages exist over prior studies. This research provides individual‐level analyses, and an explicit test of association with objective success that previous studies have not provided. It includes top management, whereas prior studies have limited samples to subordinates or middle managers. Greater demographic differentiation is provided, allowing for more contextually relevant understanding.
Work‐family conflict and job satisfaction in stressful working environments
Authors: Ru Hsu Yu
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine the moderating effects of perceived supervisor support (work environment variable) and internal locus of control (personality variable) on the relationship of work‐family conflict with job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire surveys were administered. Data were collected from correctional officers in Taiwan. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results show that work‐family conflict has a negative effect on job satisfaction. Perceived supervisor support and internal locus of control not only have direct effects on job satisfaction but also significantly moderate the relationship between work‐family conflict and job satisfaction.

Practical implications

This study suggests that a supportive leadership style, and a mentoring and training program, among others, may help reduce work‐family conflict and increase the job satisfaction of Taiwanese correctional officers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the extant work‐family conflict and correctional literature. The moderating effects of perceived supervisor support and internal locus of control are explored to further elaborate on the relationship between work‐family conflict and job satisfaction.
Organizational climate and performance in retail pharmacies
Authors: Feng Jing Fenwick , Avery Gayle C. , Bergsteiner Harald
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address an important gap in the literature by investigating the relationship between organizational climate and performance in small businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 100 retail pharmacies in Sydney, Australia where a manager and up to three staff members and three buying customers were interviewed in each pharmacy.

Findings

Supportive climates tend to be associated with higher organizational performance (i.e. financial performance, staff satisfaction, customer satisfaction) in small retail pharmacies, and may reduce staff turnover.

Practical implications

The results suggest that managers should consider creating warm and supportive organizational climates to enhance business performance, employee job satisfaction and organizational commitment, and increase employee tenure.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first to empirically establish a direct link between organizational climate and the performance of small businesses, in particular in retail pharmacies. Both financial and non‐financial measures of performance confirm reports based on larger firms that performance is enhanced in the presence of more supportive organizational climates. A further benefit of supportive climates, namely lower staff turnover in small businesses, was also evident.
Emotional intelligence and leader member exchange
Authors: Jordan Peter J. , Troth Ashlea
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating effect of leader member exchange (LMX) on the relationship between followers' emotional intelligence and the outcomes of turnover intention and job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a longitudinal design, survey data were collected from 579 employees within a private pathology company. Measures of emotional intelligence and LMX were collected at Time 1 and employee turnover intentions and job satisfaction were collected at Time 2.

Findings

The results show the quality of LMX mediates the relationship between follower emotional intelligence and both turnover intention and job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation is the use of a self‐report measure of emotional intelligence. While this published measure has been shown to be valid and reliable, there are debates over the validity of self‐report measures of emotional intelligence.

Practical implications

The authors contend that encouraging more emotionally intelligent responses in employees may enhance the quality of LMXs and improve employee attitudes.

Originality/value

Although the relationship between emotional intelligence and LMX has been theorized, the study described in the paper is the first to use a workplace sample to empirically test the relationship between emotional intelligence and measures of turnover intention and job satisfaction with LMX from a follower's perspective as a mediating variable. As such, this study enables us to explore the tension between an organization's interest in the efficient use of time to focus on core activities and the followers' desire to maintain high‐quality relationships with their leaders (a time consuming process).
Leadership vision, organizational culture, and support for innovation in not‐for‐profit and for‐profit organizations
Authors: Sarros James C. , Cooper Brian K. , Santora Joseph C.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships among leadership vision, organizational culture, and support for innovation in not‐for‐profit (NFP) and FP organizations. It hypothesizes that in NFPs, a socially responsible cultural orientation mediates the relationship between leadership vision and organizational support for innovation, whereas in FPs, a competitive cultural orientation mediates this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an empirical study that draws upon a large survey of 1,448 managers and senior executives who are members of the Australian Institute of Management.

Findings

Path analytic modelling provides partial support for the hypotheses. Although the predicted mediation effects occurred in NFPs and FPs, the strength of relationship between leadership vision and the two dimensions of organizational culture did not differ between the sectors. This was despite the observation that NFPs scored higher on a socially responsible cultural orientation than FPs, whereas FPs scored higher on a competitive cultural orientation.

Practical implications

Strategies for building innovative and sustainable organizations in the NFP sector are discussed on the basis of these findings.

Originality/value

The paper describes the first study in Australia that compares the responses of NFP and FP managers on leadership and related constructs, and provides evidence of the impact of organizational culture on leadership and innovation in these two sectors.
Robots in healthcare
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to review of the use of robots in two healthcare applications: surgery and prosthetics.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a brief introduction, this paper first considers robotic surgery and discusses a selection of commercial products, applications and recent technological advances. It then considers recent developments in robotic prosthetics.

Findings

It is shown that surgical robots are being employed in an ever‐growing range of clinical procedures. Systems employing tactile feedback are under development. Improved robotic prosthetics are the topic of a major research effort and recent developments include hands and grippers, walking aids and novel control techniques, including thought‐activated systems which exploit advances in brain‐computer interface technology.

Originality/value

This paper provides details of recent developments and applications of robotic surgery and prosthetics.
Robotic applications continue to expand at the latest IMTS show
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago with emphasis on new innovative robot applications on display.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews with exhibitors of robots as well as system integrators who apply robots to specific categories of applications.

Findings

Robots are becoming smarter with more integrated capabilities such as vision and autonomous part picking from random bin locations. They are becoming more economical, faster and more application specific. Robot system integrators are creating more efficient solutions for customers to consider.

Originality/value

The paper suggests that users who investigated robot solutions in the past and found they did not meet applications requirements may want to revisit robotics and see what is new. Robot makers are making them faster, smarter and more adaptable than ever before. Today's robotic solutions can better address application needs in a more cost‐effective manner than ever before.
Cy‐mag3D: a simple and miniature climbing robot with advance mobility in ferromagnetic environment
Authors: Rochat Frederic , Schoeneich Patrick , Lüthi Barthelemy , Bleuler Hannes , Moser Roland , Mondada Francesco
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a novel miniature magnetic climbing robot for industrial inspection. The robot has high mobility with low complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

The robot has a miniature cylindrical shape with 28 mm of diameter and 62 mm of width. The robot has two wheels. The adhesion is achieved with an advanced magnetic circuit fixed on the frame of the robot.

Findings

From an horizontal sheet, the robot can make transition to almost any intersecting sheet from 10 to 360°. The robot passes inner and outer straight corners in almost any inclination of the gravity.

Originality/value

The novel robot opens new possibilities to use mobile robots in ferromagnetic environments with stringent size limitations, as found in power plants. The new mechanism increases mobility and opens a new avenue for inspection robotics. A patent is pending on this system.
A fuzzy logic‐based formation controller for wheeled mobile robots
Authors: Hadi Amoozgar Mohammad , Alipour Khalil , Hossein Sadati Seyed
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a novel approach for formation control of non‐holonomic wheeled mobile robots (WMRs). The use of a general geometrical structure has led the considered robotic team form any desired configuration. Although various methodologies have been suggested for solving such formation control problem in the literature, the proposed kinematical method of the present investigation has several advantages in terms of its robustness, tracking performance, and superior energy consumption due to the fuzzy logic scheme developed.

Design/methodology/approach

In an attempt to make the follower robot to assume the proper orientation, a new concept is presented which defines an appropriate heading angle. This concept is based on the natural human behavior as corresponds to situations of tracking a certain trajectory. The proposed heading angle planner is based on a two‐stage fuzzy logic system, providing appropriate heading angles for the mobile robot at each instant. In order to adjust the linear/angular velocity of the robots then, two further fuzzy controllers are devised.

Findings

The results obtained from the computer simulation studies reveal the merits as well as effectiveness of the proposed method for formation control of a group of WMRs in the presence of usual control input constraints, noisy sensor data, and external disturbances.

Originality/value

A novel method based on a fuzzy leader‐follower method is presented for the formation control of a group of robots.
Changing governance, changing needs interpretations: implications for universalism
Authors: Vabø Mia
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to explore how universal welfare arrangements based on needs testing may change and assume different institutional forms. Drawing attention to Norwegian home care, the paper explores how established interpretations of needs and associated notions of equity among needs have been challenged by shifting modes of governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on policy documents, interviews and observation from three different case studies undertaken at different points in time representing different eras of governance. From this perspective, the study examines the role of professionals taking part in needs assessment.

Findings

The studies indicate that routines for needs assessment in home care are contingent on shifting logics of governance. A shift in policy of needs testing may be described as a shift from a personal situated approach encouraging “creative justice” towards a detached and impartial approach better equipped to ensure “proportional justice”. The latter approach has become more dominant as heightened attention has been paid to citizens' rights. It is, however, questionable to what extent it will improve the preconditions for treating citizens with equal concern and respect.

Research limitations/implications

The case study approach underlying the study is incapable of providing generalised conclusions about the development in all Norwegian municipalities.

Originality/value

Universalism is often talked about as a stable feature of the Nordic welfare system. Drawing attention to the underlying and elusive notions of needs, the study makes explicit some unstable aspects of universalism.
Local welfare governance structuring informal carers' dual position
Authors: Häikiö Liisa , Anttonen Anneli
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Local welfare governance is approached from the vantage point of informal carers caring for older people. A bottom‐up perspective is used to construct a critical view on welfare provision and governance practices at the local level. The paper aims to discuss the issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The data consist of 23 in‐depth interviews with informal carers. Universal access to services and equal treatment of citizens is discussed.

Findings

The analysis illustrates how informal carers share care responsibilities with the municipality and gain access to services both as service providers and service users. Informal care comprises a complex mixture of public and private responsibilities that poses a challenge to universalism. There are new inequalities emerging among informal carers, while access to public resources is easier for resource‐rich carers positioned as service providers. Resource‐poor carers identify themselves often as service users in relation to municipality.

Originality/value

The use of original data provides important knowledge on informal carers' dual position in the local welfare governance and contributes to both theoretical and empirical understanding on shifts within Nordic welfare governance. Informal carers' dual position reflects the essence of mixed governance and represents future social policies.
Multi‐level governance and universalism: Austria and Germany compared
Authors: Theobald Hildegard
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The paper compares the introduction of universal long‐term care schemes and the regulations of migrant care work within the framework of multi‐level governance in Austria and Germany. The aim of the paper is twofold. First, it reveals the characteristics of country‐specific universal policy schemes and second, it explains their designs – the new type of universalism and its completion by regulations of migrant care work within the family framework – by the policy‐making process.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptually, the paper combines approaches within long‐term care research to define dimensions of universalism, as well as on multi‐level governance and new‐institutionalism to examine the policy‐making process. Empirically, Austria and Germany are selected as two cases.

Findings

The findings reveal the significant dimensions of the new type of universalist policy design and of policies towards migrant care work. The country differences are explained by the policy‐making process within countries and with cross‐border effects. In particular, the impact of the disability movement in Austria and the coalition between the political parties in Germany resulted in a country‐specific definition of universalism. The integrated approach towards migrant care work in Austria is contrasted with the fragmented approach in Germany. In both countries, the regulations of migrant care work question the idea of universalism.

Originality/value

The impact of societal actors and their ideas on the creation of a new type of universalism and the interrelated regulation of migrant care work has only rarely been examined. The analysis contributes to an understanding of the policy‐making process and its interrelationship with selected policy designs.
Quasi‐marketisation in domiciliary care: varied patterns, similar problems?
Authors: Bode Ingo , Gardin Laurent , Nyssens Marthe
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore various types of quasi‐market governance in domiciliary elderly care with an interest in both the institutional variety of these governance arrangements and their assumable consequences, against the twofold background of the EU care policy agenda and the Nordic experience.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on evidence from four Western European countries, the paper examines how recent reforms have changed the provision of domiciliary care, including the shape of vertical and horizontal governance arrangements. Moreover, summarizing results of previous research and drawing on theoretical reflections rooted both in economics and sociology, the paper discusses the wider impact of these reforms.

Findings

The analysis points to country‐specific limitations of the quasi‐market approach regarding issues such as the work‐life balance of carers and the access to adequate services.

Originality/value

By combining different scientific approaches and exploring several institutional contexts, the paper offers new insights both in problems of quasi‐market governance and their cultural colouring.
Quality management: a cross‐cultural perspective based on the GLOBE framework
Authors: Vecchi Alessandra , Brennan Louis
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the extent to which quality management is “culture‐specific”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the results of a survey administered across 21 countries that seeks to examine quality priorities and practices by adopting the global leadership and organizational behaviour effectiveness (GLOBE) framework. Data were collected in 2006 as part of the fourth iteration of the International Manufacturing Strategy Survey. The methodology involved the use of a self‐administered questionnaire to director/head of operations/manufacturing in best practice firms within the sector of firms classified by ISIC codes (rev.3.1) Divisions 28‐35.

Findings

From this study, it emerges that adopting the GLOBE framework provides an invaluable insight into understanding quality management across countries. In particular, the findings show that some national cultures are more conducive to the implementation of quality management than others.

Practical implications

The analysis of the data leads this paper to endorse the idea that through an accumulation of scientific knowledge relevant to the applicability of quality management across national settings, managers can better understand how to transfer best quality management practices from one country to another.

Originality/value

While some previous research portrays quality management as a comprehensive management paradigm with elements and relationships that transcend cultural and national boundaries, the current study provides evidence that the adoption of certain quality practices across different countries can follow distinctive patterns.
Beyond competing theories of the hidden economy
Authors: Williams Colin C. , Round John
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate critically the validity of rival theorisations of the hidden economy that variously read this sphere as a leftover from a previous era, a by‐product of a new emergent form of capitalism, a complement to formal employment or an alternative to the formal economy. Until now, the common tendency among economic theorists has been to either universally privilege one theorisation over others, or to represent each theory as valid in different places.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate their validity to the city of Moscow, a survey is reported involving 313 face‐to‐face interviews with inhabitants conducted during 2005/2006.

Findings

The finding is that, although each theory is a valid representation of particular types of hidden work in Moscow, no one theory fully captures the diverse nature of the hidden economy in this city, and that only by combining all of them can a finer‐grained understanding of the multifarious character of the hidden economy in this city be achieved. How these theories can be synthesised in order to develop this fuller and more nuanced understanding of the hidden economy is then outlined.

Research limitations/implications

This study reveals that all these theories are needed to more fully understand the hidden economy of Moscow. Whether this is similarly the case elsewhere now needs to be investigated.

Practical implications

The recognition of multifarious types of hidden work, each with different economic implications, reveals that different policy approaches are perhaps required towards various forms of hidden work.

Originality/value

The paper re‐theorises the hidden economy as a sphere composed of heterogeneous types of work.
How can Iran's black market exchange rate be managed?
Authors: Valadkhani Abbas , Nameni Majid
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The Iranian currency (rial) depreciated on average 12.2 per cent per annum against the US dollar during the period 1960‐1998 but, despite continued two‐digit rates of inflation, the rial has witnessed only a meagre 1.7 per cent fall in its value in the post‐1998 era. This paper seeks to examine this perplexing issue by identifying the major long‐run determinants of the black market exchange rate.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the multivariate cointegration test, a threshold regression model and annual time series data (1960‐2008) to determine exactly at what exchange rate the effect of relative prices on the exchange rate has been subject to an asymmetry adjustment process.

Findings

It was found that the relative CPIs in Iran and the USA, total stock of foreign debt and the price of crude oil are the major long‐run determinants of the black market exchange rate. However, the impact of relative prices (as measured by the magnitude of its elasticity) has significantly diminished from almost unity in the pre‐1998 period to less than one‐fourth since 1998. Based on the results, if oil prices continue to plunge, liquidity and inflation are out of control and at the same time Iran accumulates more external debt, the exchange rate will eventually exhibit an unprecedented and explosive depreciation in the coming years.

Originality/value

No previous study has examined this issue using a threshold regression model without splitting the entire sample into two sections according to an endogenously determined threshold for the exchange rate.
Public debt and risk premium
Authors: Ferreira de Mendonça Helder , Pereira Duarte Nunes Marcio
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This analysis seeks to deal with the emerging economies and to reveal that, if the fiscal authority is accountable with a policy that stabilizes the public debt/GDP ratio, the consequence is a low Treasury bond risk premium.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the purpose of this paper, a theoretical model is developed and empirical evidence through an autoregressive distributed lag (ADL) model, taking into account the Brazilian experience, is made.

Findings

The findings denote that domestic variables are responsible for determining the risk premium. Moreover, a correct management of the public debt and the use of primary surplus targets make for a good strategy for promoting a fall in the Treasury bond risk premium.

Practical implications

Primary surplus and public debt/GDP ratio can be used as important tools for mitigating the Treasury bond risk premium.

Originality/value

The results of the paper give some new insights about the management of fiscal policy for developing countries.
Tracking the use of engineering conference papers: citation influence of the Stapp Car Crash Conference
Authors: Stephen McMinn H. , Fleming Kathleen
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the use of engineering conference papers by examining where the papers presented at the Stapp Car Crash Conference from 1980‐2005 were subsequently cited. Also, to examine whether the references were made to the conference paper or to the individual, the SAE Technical Paper, the second publication method. It also aims to study whether the citations were made to the lead author or secondary authors.

Design/methodology/approach

The individual papers were searched inScience Citation Indexon the Web of Science platform using the “Cited author” search and the appropriate work(s) were selected using the “Cited work” information. The number of citations to each paper was recorded and the bibliographic information from the citing articles for the “top cited” articles were retrieved and examined to determine the subject focus of the citing journals.

Findings

Almost two‐thirds of the papers from the Stapp Car Crash Conference were cited at least once, mirroring that of engineering journal articles. These citations appear in journals representing a wide variety of disciplines besides engineering including journals covering “clinical neurology”, “orthopedics”, “rehabilitation” and “surgery”. The majority of citations (92 per cent) were found to be to the lead author and approximately 85 per cent were cited as papers within the conference proceedings with the remaining papers cited as individual technical papers.

Originality/value

The results on the impact and use of engineering conference papers, especially the results in terms of author and material type, will provide valuable insight into this literature, providing librarians and researchers with a better understanding of their use in the advancement of research and scholarship.
Serving the whole person: popular materials in academic libraries
Authors: Hallyburton Ann W. , Buchanan Heidi E. , Carstens Timothy V.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to provide support and direction for academic libraries collecting popular materials.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers a case study format supplemented by statistical and descriptive analyses.

Findings

The paper presents literature and case history‐based information on the debate surrounding popular materials collection in academic libraries. The case study provides concrete, cost‐effective steps for academic libraries to use in building popular materials collections.

Practical implications

The authors make the case for support of popular materials collections through detailed evaluation of circulation records.

Originality/value

This paper offers a level of statistical analysis of circulation records unique to the library literature on popular materials collection. It also provides a distinctive case history of the evolution of a successful collection and includes easily adaptable steps.
Failing to learn? How organizations can learn from failure
Authors: Raspin Paul
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to share insights, based on recent management research, into how organizations can learn from their own failure and the failure of others.

Design/methodology/approach

The article draws on recent management research and derives key messages and insights into how organizations can learn from failure.

Findings

There are five key findings to effectively learn from failure: share information, engage in “problemistic search”, learn vicariously, facilitate team learning, and establish a learning process.

Research limitations/implications

CEOs and strategy teams will gain insights into how organizations can learn from their own failures and the failures of others.

Practical implications

Provides guidance on how to establish a deliberate process to derive insights from internal and external failures.

Originality/value

Based on a review of recent leading management research on the theme of organization learning. The BP example, use of the CAIB report, the analysis and generation of key implications, and the guidance points to “How to avoid failing to learn” are original.
Growing a business and becoming more entrepreneurial: the five traits of success
Authors: Grafton Melissa
Published: May 2011

Purpose

In today's current economic environment the barriers to growth are even more apparent than normal and there is little appetite for risk taking and minimal room for mistake making. This paper aims to assess how entrepreneurs can successfully recognize and respond to opportunities quickly and effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a survey of entrepreneurs entitled: “What makes entrepreneurs tick?”.

Findings

The paper finds that successful entrepreneurs conduct frequent and thorough risk assessments of ideas and opportunities and take appropriate action accordingly. They minimize the risks within their control, and understand the probability and impact of the risks they cannot control.

Practical implications

While running a growing, successful entrepreneurial business looks like a talent you either do or do not have, the reality is there are some core aptitudes which are quite definable and which can be instilled in an organization.

Social implications

Entrepreneurship and growth today also means being able to tap into the next generation, their mind set, energy and drive to achieve. Companies that want to be entrepreneurial need to know how to encourage, reward and motivate this generation.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful insights into entrepreneurs' motivations and ideas for developing a business strategy. It also highlights what core skills should be adopted in order to remain competitive.
The experience of work life balance for Irish senior managers
Authors: Murphy Frieda , Doherty Liz
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the experience of work‐life balance amongst senior managers, with particular emphasis on the cause of imbalances. The research is set in a call centre in Ireland at a time when the economy was moving from growth to recession.

Design/methodology/approach

A single case study approach is taken. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with all eight members of senior management in Ireland and with five members of senior management based in five sites across Europe. In addition, company documentation was used.

Findings

The overall findings of this study point towards the effect the economy has on the promotion and adoption of work‐life balance initiatives. The findings also show that it is not possible to measure work‐life balance in an absolute way, because personal circumstances influence the way this is perceived. Whilst managers with caring responsibilities have obvious work‐life conflicts, the findings show that some childless managers do also, but cannot find a legitimate justification for addressing their needs. Finally, the findings show that long hours and presenteeism do form “part of the job” when accepting a role at a higher level. However, modern technology has helped this to some extent by allowing senior managers to be accessible instead of having to be present in the office.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insights into aspects of managerial work which impact on work‐life balance – in particular the pressure to “choose” to work long hours, the role of technology, the negative impact of traveling time, and the need for more cultural support for a better work‐life balance for managers.
An assessment of employment equity and Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment developments in South Africa
Authors: Horwitz Frank M. , Jain Harish
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an assessment of employment equity, Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) and associated human resource management policies in South Africa. Polices and practices, and progress in representation of formerly disadvantaged groups are evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper comprises a general review using descriptive primary and secondary data and qualitative organizational factors.

Findings

The pace of representation and diversity at organisational levels is incremental rather than transformational.Conclusions for policy makers and organizational leaders are drawn, taking into consideration socio‐historical, political and demographic context of this jurisdiction.

Originality/value

The paper's findings and conclusions are pertinent for public and organizational policy and practice.
The WW Gear case, conditions precedent and construction contracts
Authors: Donohoe Steve
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to look at the recent case of WW Gear Construction Ltd v. McGee Group Ltd (henceforth “WW Gear”) and the complex legal concept of a condition precedent in construction contracts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at the origin of a condition precedent and explores recent cases in which a condition precedent was involved as an issue. The wording of the relevant contract documents used in WW Gear is examined and the attitude adopted by the judiciary when dealing with an alleged condition precedent is explored in depth.

Findings

From the judgment handed down by the court it is clear that provided such a clause in a contract is correctly framed and the words used indicate a clear intention of the parties which is reasonable, then the English Courts will find that a condition precedent is enforceable.

Research limitations/implications

When dealing with a condition precedent, the judges will interpret any condition precedent strictly but not so strictly that a minor drafting error makes the condition precedent unenforceable. The exact boundaries of strictness cannot be settled by WW Gear but will have to await further development of case law through future litigation. The implications of WW Gear for building surveyors and the wider construction industry are that considerable care must be taken in the administration of construction contracts where conditions precedent are present. The adjudicator was clearly incorrect in his finding that the relevant sub‐clauses were meaningless and could be safely ignored by the parties.

Originality/value

Whilst the legal concept of a condition precedent has featured in several modern construction law cases there is a paucity of literature dealing with the implications for building surveyors and construction professionals. This paper explores the importance of this often ignored legal concept not as abstract jurisprudence but in a succinct and practical way allowing practitioners to understand more fully the implications of a condition precedent on projects in which they are involved.
Sustainable refurbishment: some practical regulatory hurdles
Authors: Mansfield John R.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to some of the practical difficulties that exist within the current regulatory framework that is guiding refurbishment practice with regard to improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a critical review of Building Regulations Approved Document L2B, the current models for measuring energy and carbon emissions and third‐party certification schemes.

Findings

Sustainable refurbishment programmes can incorporate various measures and technologies to help to address the current efficiency and emission targets. Yet while specific improvements to energy efficiency and carbon emission may be technically possible, it seems that they are unnecessarily hampered by a series of hurdles.

Originality/value

The paper offers a detailed and applied consideration of three regulatory issues that can affect the achievement of sustainable measure targets in sustainable refurbishment projects.