bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FINANCIAL VALUE AND MANAGEMENT TRAINING
Authors: Coaley Keith
Published: May 2006

Reports on work to ascertain the financial worth of management
training, based on consideration of various companies′ best practice, a
review of the relevant literature and a project implemented as a new
approach to such evaluation. Presents a model which has been
successfully applied and which shows that training can contribute
substantially to a company′s profitability.
EXPORTING, SMALL FIRMS AND TRAINING
Authors: Clarke Bill , Brennan Shirley
Published: May 2006

Reviews the small firm training field, focusing specifically on
exporting. Reports on an action learning programme devised by the
University of Ulster which sought to prepare small business owners for a
United States trade mission under the Young Exporters Trade Mission
Scheme (YETM). Discusses mission gains and evaluates the initiative.
BECOMING A BETTER MANAGER?
Authors: Newey Roy
Published: May 2006

Presents the author′s examination of the way in which, without
formal education, he built up a multi‐million pound business employing
over 100 staff, and then sold it to take up something which he wished to
do, namely, further his education via TEC, NVQs and the MCI level 4 and
5. Further shows that not only successful people can further their
educational standards.
SENIOR MANAGERS AND COMPETENCE
Authors: Birchall David
Published: May 2006

Examines the Management Charter Initiative′s Senior Manager′s
Standards project and assesses its effect on the long‐term development
of organizations using it. Also investigates the effects of crediting
competence (CC) and its future uses.
EVALUATING TQM: IS IT WORTH IT?
Authors: Crombie Graeme
Published: May 2006

Reviews total quality management (TQM) and investigates whether it
has run its course. Discusses criticisms aimed at TQM and answers
questions posed. Goes on to show that total quality is measurable and
will be reflected by results.
BECOMING A GREAT MANAGER
Authors: Blair Gerard M.
Published: May 2006

Examines process of management development. Highlights basic skills
for managing a small team. Gives guidelines for becoming a great manager
which include “flexibility” and “vision”.
Concludes that the best managers are those who “recognize
problems, seize opportunities, and create their own future”.
HOW EXTERNAL MENTORING OPERATES
Authors: Bates Terry
Published: May 2006

Examines training by external mentors and its effects on management
education. Suggests that it is complementary and supportive of all other
training methods, since it encourages the practice of skills learned
through formal training. Explains how external mentoring works –
by assessing an individual′s skills to date and arriving at an agreed
agenda on which to work. Concludes that external mentoring allows people
to develop to the extent of their own capabilities.
CAREER CHOICES AND MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Margerison Charles
Published: May 2006

Examines experiences of managers and how this affects employee
training and development. Highlights key factors thought by managers to
be important in achieving success and also the personal experiences of
these in solving managerial problems. Concludes that to develop and
achieve results, a manager needs to have a clear set of objectives which
should be reviewed regularly. Then he/she will be able to manage
employee development and training effectively.
MEASURING PAYBACK FROM HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Kelly Andrew
Published: May 2006

Reports on how the Human Resource (HR) professional can prove
his/her input towards the bottom line of the company a subject which
undermines their credibility on the management team. Suggests that
direct correlation between HR and its payback to the company is
difficult to evaluate due to its reputation as a “people
changer” rather than a “business improver”. Proposes
five steps towards facilitating measurement of HRD payback. Suggests
that these will show the true value of Human Resource Development to a
company in financial terms.
DEVELOPMENT NEEDS ANALYSIS IN LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Authors: Gibson Rosemary , Watson Sally
Published: May 2006

Points out that it is difficult to work learning directly with an
organization′s strategic goals and needs. Reports on Scotland′s Central
Regional Council′s approach which suggests that strategic goals and
needs should be examined before a learning programme can be implemented.
This is done by the Development Needs Analysis (DNA). Lists the
subsequent benefits of DNA.
CREATING A NEW LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
Authors: Simmons Michael
Published: May 2006

Examines traditional styles of leadership in the light of the new
challenges and changes of the 1990s. Proposes that they are becoming
more and more inappropriate and gives a check‐list for a new and more
appropriate leadership. Concludes that we ought to be developing a
leadership approach which reflects the values and ideas which need to be
developed in a new fast‐changing world.
DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING FOR PEAK PERFORMERS
Authors: Sharrock Robert , Grant Pauline , Acker Bill , McLeod Don
Published: May 2006

Examines how development consulting works in practice. Indicates
that the senior CEO of the 1990s needs a variety of skills and abilities
to carry out his/her job competently, the development of which is often
neglected. States the importance of development consulting as being that
of keeping the organization and individual in “synchrony”.
Concludes that in the light of various changes which occur within any
company if synchrony does not occur then there is a reduction in peak
performance and personal fulfilment.
TRAINING EXCELLENCE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED
Authors: King Stephen
Published: May 2006

Reviews the Training Excellence Campaign, a year long initiative
aimed at practitioners and senior managers in the National Health
Service. Investigates cases of best practice and suggests pointers which
might be used in any sector. Suggests that Investors In People (IIP) has
a vital role to play in developing any organization.
GETTING RESULTS: THE TRAINER’S SKILLS
Authors: Darling Philip
Published: May 2006

Reviews essential skills needed by trainers in the face of recent
change including technical, people and intervention/influencing skills.
Outlines models for change while investigating their implications for
training. Concludes that management collaboration and involvement are
essential for training, and that a trainer can only be effective if he
or she possesses those skills already mentioned and can combine these
with providing feedback.
THE MENTORING DEGREE PROJECT
Authors: Jowett Val
Published: May 2006

Reports on Leeds Metropolitan University′s Employment Department
project concerned with workplace mentors. Discusses the concept of
mentoring and its various meanings. Gives case examples and shows how
mentoring is used to provide and lead to effective learning, within
degree programmes.
BUSINESS OBJECTIVES AND LEARNING AT THE POST OFFICE
Authors: Griffiths John
Published: May 2006

Looks at the changes which have happened to the Post Office, and in
particular with regard to the three main parts‐the Royal Mail,
Parcelforce and Post Office Counters. Discusses the resultant changes as
a kind of cultural revolution with a change in working practices.
Although change is ongoing with the threat perhaps of privatization in
the air, the Post Office needs to be ultra‐competitive for its own
survival.
A MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW
Authors: Margerison Charles
Published: May 2006

Discusses in depth the real meaning of management development at
both a personal and organizational level. Goes on to give guidelines for
development and includes a checklist. Shows also that managerial
endeavours in the commercial, industrial and public areas are a
prerequisite to tackle vital issues.
THE SPECIAL SKILLS OF LISTENING
Authors: Bentley Trevor
Published: May 2006

The ability to listen is very important and for facilitators even
more so Gives six situations‐monologue, dialogue, conversation,
discussion, debate and argument to show how facilitators can choose
their level of listening. Goes on, with listed examples, to clarify all
the facets of listening and their pros and cons.
THE CHALLENGES OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE
Authors: Berthoin Antal Ariane
Published: May 2006

Presents the results of a survey on international organizational
change at Ashridge′s recent “2001: A Research Odyssey”
Conference.
STRATEGIC MENTORING AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF MANAGERS
Authors: Newton Robert J. , Wilkinson Michael J.
Published: May 2006

Discusses in depth mentoring and its meaning and present use, in
particular with regard to Ashworth Hospital′s Management Development
Programme for 80 managers. Gives the background and development of its
comprehensive and sophisticated mentorship programme and the benefits
which accrued.
The Competence Movement: Issues, Stakeholders and Prospects
Authors: Burgoyne John G.
Published: May 2006

The “competence” movement as an approach to education,
training and development is based on a belief in defining purpose and
outcome in standardized, measurable terms. It parallels other concerns
for control, such as performance indicators and standards, and returns
to many of the features of the behavioural objectives movement in the
1960s which similarly paralleled management by objectives and various
forms of scientific management. The competence movement is contentious
but the nature of the debate is not clear. Suggests that the debate can
be mapped in three dimensions: micro to macro issues, theoretical to
practical issues, and technical to political issues. Explores this by
examining the position of the main stakeholders who have an interest in
the competence movement. The competence movement tends to attempt to
impose a simplifying model of education, training, learning development
and work and organizational process, and many of its problems can be
seen to result from this simplification such as the reduction of all
learning to a single stairway of levels.
Reframing Management Competence: Focusing on the Top Management Team
Authors: Alderson Siobhan
Published: May 2006

Presents an original top management team‐based approach to
management competences. Based on the results of a survey of thousands of
top executives across Europe and many years of in‐depth consultancy and
research with top executives, presents a practical guide to the key top
management team competences identified by top executives as essential to
success and to the impact of poor performance in these key competence
areas. Additionally, presents the results in a cross‐cultural framework
and outlines the need, in an international business environment, for a
heightened understanding of the impact of cultural differences in
management behaviour, performance, and expectations. Also considers the
management development implications of the findings.
MARKETING LIBRARIES: A SURVlVAL COURSE?
Authors: Baldock Carole
Published: May 2006

Examines the increasing necessity for co‐operation and
compromise between library services and marketing.
Various definitions of marketing are given and its
potential explored. Examples of strategies from
different parts of the United Kingdom, in particular
the North West, are included, to demonstrate their
success, or otherwise, and to speculate on the reasons
for both results. The role of the client or customer is
discussed, with reference to his or her needs and
expectations. The image of libraries and the services
they provide can be enhanced by selective promotion,
tailored to each particular need, thus helping to reach
the widest possible number of users. Marketing,
comprehensively employed, sbould be used more
extensively in order to enable libraries to become
virtually all things to all people.
LIBRARIES VERSUS USERS? HOW AND HOW NOT TO DETER LIBRARY USERS
Authors: Coker Susanne
Published: May 2006

Information technology allows libraries to provide
access vo resources and information services far beyond
the limits of their own collections. The users′ needs for
information and recreation are the primary concern of
libraries, yet librarians realize that a significant
proportion of the population rarely or never use
libraries, while library users experience frustration or
failure when using their library. Examines various
factors which influence the attitude of individuals or
groups to libraries and considers socio‐economic,
technological, physical/technical and
psychological/emotional conditions which shape the
perceptions of non‐users and inhibit users and potential
users.
Industrial Conflict and Its Expressions
Authors: Analoui Farhad , Kakabadse Andrew
Published: May 2006

While it is widely recognized that conflict at work takes various
forms, there is much confusion and disagreement among theorists and
practitioners as to what constitutes conflict – discontent –
and what range of behavioural form it takes. As for behavioural
expressions of conflict, only the most visible forms such as strikes,
labour turnover and absenteeism have received attention. Other
unconventional forms of behaviour such as sabotage, pilferage and
disruptive practices have, by and large, been neglected. At present, a
comprehensive classification which includes both conventional and
unconventional expressions of discontent is difficult to find. Includes
a direct response to this vacuum. Offers a behavioural framework which
has the potential for not only including the actors involved, but also
explaining the behavioural strategies open to people and the reasons for
choosing a particular way of expressing their discontent. Concludes that
a better understanding of workplace conflict and its effective
management requires appreciating the range of behavioural expressions
involved; creation of the work environment conducive to the conflict
processing and conflict resolution; and understanding the significance
of the potential of the people as choice makers, when choosing from
among the options open to them for expressing discontent.
Iphigenia; or On the Fate of T‐Groups
Authors: Lundberg Craig C. , Bowen Donald D.
Published: May 2006

Cast in the form of a theatrical script, offers commentary on the
forces supposedly contributing to the rise and fall of T‐Groups as part
of the professional preparation of OD faculty and practitioners.
A Postmodern Deconstruction of Total Quality Management
(TQM)
Authors: Steingard David S. , Fitzgibbons Dale E.
Published: May 2006

Offers a postmodern, deconstructive analysis of total quality
management (TQM) theory and practice. Problematizing TQM, uncovers
unchallenged assumptions and implicit power relations cloaked by
management science′s veil of objectivity and value‐neutrality. Tracing
these assumptions and power relations to the life‐worlds of TQM
organizations, regrettably discovers an obsequious and dehumanized
subjectivity of TQM workers. These alienated TQM workers are inscribed
in a seamless and inescapable network of totalitarian power relations
epitomized by authoritarian admonitions of “the one right
way”, “quality is Job 1”, and “quality or
else”. As hegemonic TQM ideology insidiously permeates all aspects
of social life, witnesses an unparalleled threat to the basic individual
rights of a liberal democracy. Proclaiming the “death of
TQM”, optimistically discusses preliminary suggestions for an
emancipatory post‐TQM theory and practice.
Moving beyond Vision: Fostering Cultural Change in a
Bureaucracy
Authors: Fairfield‐Sonn James W.
Published: May 2006

Over the course of two‐and‐a‐half years a new Town Manager tried
several approaches aimed at altering the culture of the organization to
reflect more closely his vision of how it should operate. Yet, the
results of a survey administered to the organization′s senior management
group at the end of this time revealed only minor change had occurred.
To understand more fully some of the progress and difficulties he
experienced as well as ways in which further advances could be made
utilizes a life cycle perspective. Specifically, focuses on examining
some of the complexities to be expected when an outsider attempts to
revitalize a bureaucracy. Concludes with some advice on ways to foster
cultural change more effectively.
Development of a Model for Announcing Negatively Perceived
Changes
Authors: Smeltzer Larry R. , Zener Marie F.
Published: May 2006

Presents a model for announcing major, negatively perceived,
top‐down changes such as layoffs and reorganizations was developed based
on the extant literature. The appropriateness of the model was then
tested by analysing 15 cases in which a major change was announced. The
model presented here, based on the literature and 15 case analyses,
serves as an initial step in developing an effective and efficient
strategy for announcing major organizational changes.
Library Orientation: A Workable Alternative Re‐worked
Authors: Nichols Jan
Published: May 2006

Following the Library induction/orientation process at the
University of the West of England, Bristol in the autumn term of 1990,
it was recognized on both educational and practical grounds that
re‐appraisal was necessary. The result of this re‐appraisal was the
development of a workbook with a flexible format, enabling it to be used
with students from each of the eight faculties. The workbook programme
was evaluated quantitatively (by questionnaire) and qualitatively (by
meetings) and a number of recommendations made. Students expressed how
much they had benefited by working together in small groups. It was
decided to foster this approach of collaborative enquiry in the design
of a series of shorter guides, workbooks and worksheets which were used
by the Bristol Business School librarian for the induction/orientation
programme in the autumn of 1992. The alternative programmes were
evaluated qualitatively from student groups and from enquiries desk
staff, with extremely positive results from both groups.
The Library Committee
Authors: McKeen Mike
Published: May 2006

The Library Committee is often mentioned but rarely discussed in
the literature, yet it often plays an important role in the operation of
a library or information service. Discusses the nature and role of the
Library Committee and the factors which should be considered in
organizing, reviewing or participating in one. It is intended to
provide, not a universal model, but some general guidelines which may be
useful in dealing with the circumstances of particular organizations.
COMLA: The First 21 Years and After
Authors: Harrison K.C.
Published: May 2006

Describes the foundation of the Common‐wealth Library Association
in 1972 discussing the circumstances leading to the Association and
surrounding its creation; the early years of the Association; its
disappointments and achievements. Highlights the major figures involved
in the Association and discusses the current need for a Commonwealth
Library Association and its possible future role.
A Survey of Job Satisfaction among Library Officers in
Nigeria
Authors: Olugbade Oladokun Samuel
Published: May 2006

Surveys the status and job satisfaction of para‐professional
library officers in Nigerian libraries. Highlights a degree of
dissatisfaction and considers areas of particular discontent. Discusses
the reasons for their choice of the career in librarianship and their
mobility and progress within the profession.
The Crime Writers’ Association and the CWA Spare Copy
Catalogue
Authors: Lewin Michael Z.
Published: May 2006

Describes the history and activities of the Crime Writers′
Association, highlighting various awards, and recent winners. Details
the CWA Spare Copy Catalogue Scheme, whereby authors′ spare copies of
their own books are made available for purchase by libraries when those
books are out of print.
TAKE FORWARD YOUR HUMAN RESOURCE AGENDA: MANAGE PERFORMANCE
AND REWARD
Authors: Brierley Susanne J.
Published: May 2006

Examines managing performance as an integrated, dynamic process,
involving strategic decisions, people value, management of change and
communication. Concludes that it is better to be a learning company than
an excellent company, as this leads to commitment to employee
development, which in turn leads to managing human resources
effectively, therefore managing their reward and performance.
ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE
Authors: Carr‐Hill R. , Dalley G.
Published: May 2006

Traces the origins of the fashion for quality assurance and
discusses the requisites of a quality assurance strategy. On the basis
of a Department of Health funded study in England and Wales in 1989,
draws attention to the wide range of activities which have been swept
into the quality assurance net, the striking differences between the
factors cited as constraining or facilitating the development of quality
assurance, and the abysmal lack of data on cost or resources or to any
systematic monitoring and evaluation. Suggests that the
purchaser‐provider split may have worsened the situation.
MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE IN A DEMANDING HEALTH
CARE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Johnson James A. , Wayne Boss R.
Published: May 2006

The problems facing many US health care organizations may prove
critical for survival for many of them. Outlines the nature of the
problems: increased patient demand, tensions among personnel,
technological innovation, cost‐conscious purchasers of care, the need to
improve cost‐efficiency, and barriers to change within organizations.
This last presents a number of problems that may often seem intractable
and are peculiar to this type of organization.
MANAGERIAL EFFECTIVENESS AND THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A HEALTH
SERVICE EXAMPLE
Authors: Willcocks Stephen George
Published: May 2006

Attempts to address the question of managerial effectiveness in the
UK′s National Health Service, with particular reference to doctors
holding managerial positions as clinical directors. Emphasizes a systems
framework as a model for analysis of the concept of effectiveness.
Identifies and discusses the importance of various managerial inputs
(for example, managerial behaviour) and outputs such as objectives in
business plans. Highlights the difficulty of establishing outcome
measures in a service organization. Contrasts this approach with an
alternative subjectivist approach which questions the validity of
objective measures of effectiveness. The two approaches are not
necessarily incompatible but require a convergence in the philosophical
assumptions underpinning analysis. May be relevant to medical managers
and other professionals acting as managers in service organizations.
THE THREE Cs OF STAFF COUNSELLING
Authors: Newnes Craig
Published: May 2006

Describes why and how a staff counselling service was set up at
Shropshire Health Authority. Details the different phases of its
development and the problems encountered.
Software Auditing: Effectively Combating the Five Deadly
Sins
Authors: Berner Philip
Published: May 2006

There is a far greater risk to business today than the conventional
seven deadly sins, of avarice, gluttony and so on. The risk is tied up
in what the Federation Against Software Theft (FAST) in the UK calls the
five deadly sins: illegal software; the unauthorized use of software;
virus attack; malicious tampering and hacking. Costly and embarrassing
raids by FAST have proved devastating, and the growing body of research
undertaken by its Australian counterpart, the Business Software
Association of Australia (BSAA), has highlighted the need for corporate
business to clean up its act, and become far more accountable for its
software use and management.
The Open Security Architecture
Authors: Gluck Fredric B.
Published: May 2006

Outlines the Open Security Architecture (OSA). OSA is an
architecture which will provide the basis for the selection, design and
integration of products providing security and control for a network of
desktop personal computers, “mobile” notebook computers,
servers and mainframes. States that the purpose of this architecture is
to provide an environment where: acceptable and workable controls can be
placed on sensitive data; user productivity and existing investments in
applications are not negatively impacted by the addition of control and
security; data flow around the organization, and the investment that has
been put in place to support this capability (e.g. local‐area,
wide‐area, and telephonebased networks) can still be used to enhance
information exchange between users; and all workstations, regardless of
their location, operating system, or capability to connect to a network,
can be included and easily administered under this architecture.
Data Integrity and Security: Who′s in Charge Here Anyway?
Authors: Weiss Kenneth P.
Published: May 2006

Lost, stolen, destroyed, compromised, or exploited, computer
information can cripple a company irrevocably, deplete shareholder
assets, and leave the CIO and other executives legally vulnerable
– professionally and personally – if they have not taken
relevant measures to ensure the security and integrity of corporate
information resources.
BERLIN AND GERMAN UNIFICATION: REFLECTIONS ON A STUDY TRIP
TO EAST GERMANY
Authors: Helms Marilyn M.
Published: May 2006

Reports a recent international study trip (a group of university
professors and scholars) giving an opportunity to experience first‐hand
the changes involved in unifying the two Germanies, and extending the
realm of capitalism and a free‐market system to Russia and to witness
examples of the systematic gap between East and West caused by decades
of social, political and economic value systems. The visit included the
German Chamber of Commerce, a tour of a former East German machine tool
factory, Treuhandanstalt – the government organization
responsible for privatizing East German businesses, the Free University
and Humboldt University, and numerous talks by educational and
governmental leaders. Outlines the findings and adds comments from
speakers, further analysis on the unification progress to date, and
information on future challenges.
ISSUES IN ENVIRONMENTAL LAW: PRESENT AND FUTURE
PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Holroyd Jessica
Published: May 2006

Reviews United Kingdom′s environmental obligations ensuing from EC
membership with respect to both EC directives and UK law. Discusses the
merits of a cradle‐to‐grave approach to the production process; a
stringent but flexible system of pollution control integrated into each
stage. This is seen as the best hope of containing the objectives of
economic growth and environmental protection.
LANGUAGE STRATEGIES IN BRITISH BUSINESS: A SUITABLE CASE
FOR TREATMENT?
Authors: Embleton Doug
Published: May 2006

Examines the advantages of an integrated language strategy for
British business vis‐à‐vis the single market. Analyses
the importance of languages to individual firms, as they affect the ROI
and proposes a language audit as a tool for implementing the strategy
with the emphasis on integration of departments and interfacing of
language‐related issues. Highlights the pitfalls of unco‐ordinated
programmes and the benefits of those which are quality‐oriented, thereby
giving UK companies a favourable image in their foreign language
business communications.
PORTER′S (1980) GENERIC STRATEGIES IN PORTUGAL
Authors: Green Ronald F. , Lisboa Joa , Yasin Mahmoud M.
Published: May 2006

States that the usefulness of theory, developed in the United
States, in international settings, is of particular interest. The wider
the domain to which theory can be applied, the greater its value to the
body of knowledge to which it belongs. Examines the applicability of
Michael Porter′s Three Generic Strategy Typology (1980) in the
developing manufacturing nation of Portugal. It was concluded that the
typology is an excellent representation of the strategic orientations of
manufacturing firms in Portugal. The existence of the strategic options
of cost leadership, differentiation and focus were identified, in their
pure form, through factor analysis. Regardless of the apparent lack of
formal strategic planning processes, Portuguese manufacturing firms
appear to be following internally consistent business level strategies.
TRANSNATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING: MYTHS, MOBILITY AND
INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE
Authors: Busby Steve
Published: May 2006

Transnational education and training programmes are often hailed as
the key to an organization′s international development. They produce
“international mind‐sets”, develop “mobility”
and help to “capitalize on diversity”. Such initiatives
expose both learners and trainers to pressures which remain largely
unexplored. How much can or should local approaches and methodologies be
adapted to other environments? What are the implications of learning in
culturally mixed groups? Introducing alternative perspectives into
organizations through transnational processes brings internal pressure
to change. What new skills are necessary and how can they be developed?
The author describes a recent two‐year programme run by a transnational
partnership of training institutes for a multicultural team of 14
trainers. He discusses his learning and the programme′s relevance for
organizations involved in EC‐sponsored schemes, and recommends
intercultural development processes that can help learners face the
challenges that transnational mobility implies.
FOCUS ON SLOVAKIA
Authors: Stradling Aidan
Published: May 2006

Examines the climate for business opportunities in one of Europe′s
newest independent states. Places difficulties to be expected in the
historical, cultural and political contexts that better business
understanding requires. Also outlines the economic environment for
potential foreign investors.
EUROPEAN MANAGERIAL COMPETENCES
Authors: Hogg Bridget A.
Published: May 2006

Begins by outlining McKinsey′s Seven S Framework, applying it to
the telecommunications industry, and concluding that it is the skills of
the people which will give one company competitive advantage over
another. Describes a two‐year research project which examined the
relative value placed on 22 management competences by managers in six
European telecommunications companies. The similarities and differences
between these telecommunications companies is discussed, based on the
valued competences. Concludes with the belief that competitive advantage
can be achieved through the skills and shared values of an
organization′s people and encourages human resources professionals to
help their organization reach competitive advantage through its people.
ELECTRONIC MAIL: EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE OR A FAD?
Authors: Plaisent Michel , Bernard Prosper M.
Published: May 2006

Examines the efficiency of electronic mail and its effectiveness in
aiding decision making. Highlights its main functions and typical usage
and also its advantages to the executive. Concludes that electronic mail
does increase efficiency in the decision‐making process and is not a fad
since executives prefer it to other media.
TEAM DEVELOPMENT FOR EUROPEAN ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: Harris Philip R.
Published: May 2006

Discusses how teams are an essential aspect of the new work
culture; and how team management is of vital importance, particularly
when cross‐cultural applications arise which will improve an
organization′s international relations. Examines what makes teams
productive, how to motivate members and promote a helping relationship
between team members. Views a team as a subsystem of a larger system:
the corporation or organization. Discusses how to improve team
performance and the demands made of individuals and lists the challenges
to human resource leaders. Examines the use of formal team building to
train personnel in effective intra/intergroup relations; and the role of
teams whose individual members cut across status ranks and
organizational levels, as it is their expertise which is required.
Finally, reports on the roles of simulations and computer games in the
task of training individuals to be part of a team.
TRENDS IN MERGERS, ACQUISITIONS AND JOINT VENTURES IN THE
SINGLE EUROPEAN MARKET
Authors: Whitelock Jeryl , Rees Meredydd
Published: May 2006

1992 was the year of the Single European Market. By 31 December
1992, agreement should have been reached on some 286 directives, which
aimed to dismantle physical, technical and fiscal barriers to trade. In
so doing, it was expected that community businesses would become more
integrated, allowing them to compete on more equal terms as
Eurobusinesses with the global players of the US and Japan. It was
predicted that greater intra‐Community competition would be a necessary
precursor of this outcome, and that this will lead to industries
restructuring through mergers and joint ventures to increase market
share and economies of scale by reaching a “minimum efficient
size”. Examines the trends in cross‐border mergers/acquisitions
and joint ventures for the period 1986 to 1989 and concludes that, for
both small and large firms, such activity has increased. Further, an
analysis of EC material on the subject reveals that firms′ reasons for
such developments appear to have become more market‐oriented over time.
THE ORIGINS OF THE RECENT SWEDISH CRISIS: A LESSON FOR THE
EUROPEAN LEFT
Authors: Burkitt Brian , Whyman Phil
Published: May 2006

Poses the question: “What has gone wrong?” in a country
which was envied for its full employment and high standard of living and
which now has rising unemployment and recently has suffered a major
currency crisis. Pinpoints the beginning of problems back in 1985 when
Sweden began to deregulate its financial markets, which ultimately
plunged the economy into recession. Details further financial blunders
which compounded the problem. By 1991 a tight budgetary policy had
reduced inflation but at the cost of destroying one‐fifth of all
industrial jobs and a four‐fold rise in unemployment. Assesses the
content of three rescue packages put together by the coalition
Government and the Social Democratic Party (SAP). All the proposals cut
into citizens′ welfare benefits and undermine their living standards.
Views these proposals as courting disaster and makes suggestions for
alternative approaches to the problem, based on Keynesian theory.
MAKING KNOWLEDGE WORK THROUGH CLOSER TIES BETWEEN TOWN AND
GOWN
Authors: Pollitt David , Mellors Colin
Published: May 2006

Explores the increasing co‐operation between higher education and
industry in the area of research and development and concludes that
success is more likely, if both parties agree on the benefits of
co‐operation as opposed to each working separately.
MANUFACTURING MANAGEMENT IN HUNGARY: A PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Eszes Laszlo , Muhlemann Alan
Published: May 2006

Presents a historical overview of the political and economic
changes in Hungary. Emphasizes the implications for
production/manufacturing management and corporate strategy. Discusses
the current situation in Hungarian manufacturing industry and identifies
the more strategic issues within the economic environment. Examines
current production management practice, with case histories, and
concludes with an assessment of the possibilities of introducing aspects
of world‐class manufacturing into Hungarian industry.
To Be or Not To Be Recyclable? An Examination of the Proposal for an EC Directive on Packaging and Packaging Waste
Authors: Grilli Frank
Published: May 2006

By 1995 the EC hopes to have in force a new directive to replace
directive 85/339 on containers of liquids for human consumption.
Hopefully, this new directive will be more successful than its
predecessor. By the directive the EC hopes to increase protection of the
environment by establishing a return system for empty containers. It
covers waste management by: (1) prevention, i.e. reduction of quantity
or harmfulness of waste; (2) recovery, especially recycling; and (3)
disposal, as a last resort. Discusses the impact of the directive on
companies involved and how much can realistically be recycled; and that
products cannot be recycled indefinitely. Also discusses the marking of
packaging to indicate that it is reusable, recoverable, and its
composition; and considers the value of this information to the consumer
and those involved with disposal and waste management.
The New Public Health
Authors: Cannon Geoffrey
Published: May 2006

Gives a description of the changes in food consumption patterns and
the incidence of disease which has stimulated scientific investigations
into the relationship between diet and development of chronic diseases.
Explains the emergence of a consensus among scientists, coupled with a
discussion of how the dietary recommendations have been received in
different countries.
Human Issues Affect the Dynamics of Change in the East European Agrifood Sector
Authors: Jones John
Published: May 2006

While considerable advances have been made in food
supply in many Central and East European countries,
many mistakes have also been made – mistakes of the
human kind. These errors highlight important factors in
the process of change which have been overlooked by
many in the rush to convert from command to free
economies. Countries have been developing at different
rates. Draws out these differences and attempts to explain
the reasons for them. Concludes that scale and so‐called
“mental” or psychological difficulties have been largely
responsible. Should the West continue to advocate speedy
transition from command to free market economy through
total destruction of the old system? Or should the process
be more evolutionary? Emphasizes that consultants and
private companies seeking investment opportunities in
Eastern Europe need to understand the human element of
the change equation and accept there will be no instant
reversal of culture. It may take a long time before the ideal
of a free market economy is fully operational in all these
countries.
Agriculture and Food Policy in Countries in Transition to a Market Economy
Authors: Young Nick
Published: May 2006

Discusses how the rejection of Communist principles for a
framework of market‐based economies in many former
Eastern bloc countries has had a profound effect on the
food chain. The scale of adjustments required is
considerable, yet some governments still feel that central
planning must play a major role in the decisions of
enterprises and are reluctant to liberalize. Identifies the
key macro‐economic and political constraints which need
to be overcome before policy re‐orientation can be
achieved. Policy themes which need to be tackled include
restoration of property rights, price and trade policy and
the development of a sustainable credit system. The speed
and sequencing of policy reform need urgent
consideration. Policy makers have to make the essential
choice between a liberal, market‐ determined approach or
something more interventionist. In pursuing the liberal
approach, belief in the market is imperative. Private
enterprise needs a sturdy legal framework in which to
develop. As yet, in m any countries, this framework is too
fragile to provide total confidence in the direction of
transition.
Food Distribution in Eastern Europe
Authors: Morton Catherine
Published: May 2006

The food distribution systems of East European countries
are at different stages of development. Hungary′s food
processing sector remains in a relatively poor state, but
there is a high level of feedback along the food chain and
the retail sector is now the strongest in Eastern Europe.
Products make their way through the Romanian food
chain from agriculture to consumer but with little
feedback and the development of few constructive
relationships. The retail sector is highly disorganized.
Illustrates how in Russia the situation is far worse as the
country faces difficult times adapting to a free market
system. Concludes that Hungary undoubtedly will lead the
way out of recession, with Romania following and Russia
lagging behind. Advises that although the major
opportunities for new entrants to the food supply chain
appear to be in those countries with the best developed
economies such as Hungary, the other countries should not
be ignored. Burgeoning high income sectors in each
market will create the demand for a consistent supply of
high‐quality food products.
The Future for Fruit and Vegetable Distribution in Russia
Authors: Jones Stephen
Published: May 2006

The fruit and vegetable sector in Russia requires a
completely remodelled distribution system. The traditional
supply structure consists of a multi‐layered production
base with large‐scale state farms and thousands of
individuals growing crops on small plots. The greatest
distribution problem exists at the storage, processing and
retailing stage. A crisis now exists in most Russian cities
where the command system has broken down but nothing
has emerged to take its place. Requires aspects of the
Western system including the concept of wholesale
marketing and the presence of trading/distribution
companies. Despite much discussion and consultancy
advice progress remains modest and short‐ term problems
of adaption are proving to be immense.
Consumer Research: Necessity or Luxury in Eastern Europe?
Authors: Biggs Howard
Published: May 2006

In Western Europe extensive use of sophisticated market research as
measured against the financial implications of even small changes in
market share still means that the cost of research is modest. Is such
detailed research relevant, accurate or necessary in East European
markets, where supply is short and choice limited? Presents the
arguments against research being carried out in these countries and
the good reasons why consumer preferences should be sought at this
time. In some countries, the range of food products available is
increasing rapidly. Capital investment has to be made now to meet
demand in a few years time. Being seen to consult the population helps
to overcome philosophical and political difficulties. In 1992 the
Produce Studies Group carried out the first major consumer survey of
consumers in the Ukraine capital, Kiev. The project presented
logistical and technical problems, but the results did establish
preferences for certain products. Shows that Eastern Europe cannot be
treated as a single, uniform market as different countries are at
different stages of development. However, as technology progresses it
is likely that decades of change in the West will be encapsulated in a
much shorter time period in the East. This rapid change means
getting investment decisions and product ranges right now.
Identifying and understanding the needs of the consumer will be more,
not less important than it is in the mature markets of the West.
Hungarian and Bulgarian Wine Prospects in the UK Market
Authors: Brookes Graham
Published: May 2006

The fundamental political and economic reforms taking place in
Eastern and Central Europe pose some difficult questions for the
future of the agri‐food industries in Hungary and Bulgaria. A major
sector facing the problems of transition to a market economy is wine,
traditionally an important source of export earnings. The loss of the
volume markets in the former COMECON countries has forced the
wine sectors to look to West European markets and the UK in
particular, where wine consumption is rising. Hungary is currently a
minor source of wine in the UK and has a generally poor reputation in
servicing the requirements of the market. Bulgaria now accounts for
over 3 per cent of the UK′s total wine imports and is perceived widely
to be an example of highly successful marketing. This is due largely to
tight control over export activities by a former state‐controlled export
body. Since the fall of Communism, this control has been weakened as
individual wineries export on their own account – undermining the
consistency of marketing effort. Overall both Hungary and Bulgaria
have the potential to meet the wine import requirements of the UK
wine buyers, although both have to overcome common and divergent
problems of transition and are developing from different historical
bases.
The Implications of EC Enlargement for the EC Food Industry
Authors: Verhoeven Laura
Published: May 2006

Future enlargement of the EC to include Central and Eastern
European countries (CEECs) will have implications for the EC food
industry. In the short to medium term, the food industry in the CEECs
is not expected to be able to compete with the EC food industry (except
in some specific sectors where CEECs traditionally have been strong ‐
such as soft fruit in Poland, wine in Bulgaria and, possibly, processed
meat in Hungary). In the longer term CEECs may be able to take
advantage of relatively low labour and production costs and proximity
to EC markets; although this will be of limited value until the EC opens
its markets for agricultural and food products to a greater degree than
is provided for under the present Association Agreements.
How Can East European Food Industries Learn from Those in the West?
Authors: Lyle Ian
Published: May 2006

Should the former Soviet bloc countries look to Western food
industries in their efforts to supply adequate food and offer choice?
Three groups of consumer are emerging with widely differing
purchasing powers. Currently only the privileged elite can expect
choice and quality at a West European level. Principal errors so far
have been the institution of selective remedies at individual parts of
the food chain rather than tackling it as a whole. While Eastern
Europe can learn from the historic transition of the West – which took
three centuries – it must compress the time it takes to put this into
practice. It is likely that the most advanced countries will become
mirror images of Western food industries, driven by the involvement
of strong retail forces from the West. In the CIS, development will
revolve around management efficiency and will be far less driven by
consumer power. No one system, not even a Western model, can
provide the answer for all the countries. The solution may be an
amalgam of old and new systems to suit each country′s circumstances
and ambitions.
Use of Halogenated Hydrocarbon Extinguishing Agent
Alternatives to Halon 1211 (BCF) and Halon 1301 (BTM)
Authors: Dyer John H.
Published: May 2006

Describes the properties of the halogenated fire extinguishants
Halon 1211 and 1301, their role in ozone depletion and their proposed
replacements. Because of their adverse effects on the depletion of the
ozone layer, production of Halon 1211 and Halon 1301 is restricted by
the Montreal Protocol of 1987. Identifies producers who are conducting
research and development for alternative products with low toxicity and
zero ozone depletion factors.
Commentary: customer service insurance
Authors: Klose Allen J.
Published: May 2006

Discusses customer service guarantees and customer service
insurance as ways to reduce consumers′ perceived risk in service
encounters. Looks at some examples of how these could work in service
encounters involving the time component and non‐transaction encounters.
Views customer service insurance as a way in which companies can
differentiate themselves from competition.
Price signalling: does it ever work?
Authors: Alpert Frank , Wilson Beth , Elliott Michael T.
Published: May 2006

Examines the phenomenon of price signalling whereby consumer goods
manufacturers attempt to signal higher quality via a higher price when
objective product quality is, in fact, not demonstrably higher. Shows
that higher price alone does not succeed in signalling higher quality,
but that higher price accompanied by premium‐quality signals in the
other elements of the marketing mix does succeed. Concludes that a
premium pricing strategy cannot be successful if price is the only
marketing variable emphasised and brand managers should think in terms
of premium quality positioning that requires the right marketing mix.
Opportunity Search: What's that Knocking at the Door?
Authors: Robert Michel
Published: May 2006

Analyses the role of change and innovation and goes on to discuss
the innovation process and ten sources of innovation for the first stage
– the search. These are: unexpected successes, failures, external
events, process weaknesses, industry/structure changes, high‐growth
areas, converging technologies, demographic and perception changes and
new knowledge.