bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value‐based management, EVA and stock price performance in Canada
Authors: Athanassakos George
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which Canadian companies have embraced value‐based management (VBM) methods, identify the characteristics of these companies and of the executives responsible for the introduction of VBM in their organisations and assess the stock price performance of the companies that use VMB vs. those that do not.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a survey of CEOs of a large sample of Canadian companies and examines the relation of a number of explanatory variables, including stock price performance, to the probability of using VBM versus not using VBM via a regression analysis of qualitative choice, namely logit analysis.

Findings

The study finds that value‐based management methods are widely used in Canada, with the likelihood of usage being higher for larger companies with younger and more educated executives with an accounting/finance background. The statistical analysis that follows the tabulation of survey results indicates companies that used EVA had a better stock price performance than those not using EVA. Moreover, our logit regression analysis shows that companies with better stock market performance exhibited higher likelihood of using EVA.

Practical implications

The study implies that the lower usage of EVA in Canada, especially at the corporate level, provides some explanation for the stock market under‐ performance of the Canada market vis‐à‐vis the USA in the 1990s.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, this study serves as the first widespread evaluation of VBM methods in Canada and their effect on company and stock price performance.
The mediating effect of organizational reputation on customer loyalty and service recommendation in the banking industry
Authors: Bontis Nick , Booker Lorne D. , Serenko Alexander
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The overall purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the mediating effect of organizational reputation on service recommendation and customer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Four models were developed that were variations of the American Customer Satisfaction Model (ACSM). These models were then tested by using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) procedure on a data collected from a survey that yielded 8,098 respondents.

Findings

It was found that customer satisfaction enhances reputation in the service environment. It was also discovered that reputation partially mediates the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty, and that reputation partially mediates the relationship between satisfaction and recommendation.

Research limitations/implications

More research needs to be undertaken to explore the role of reputation within the ACSM. It is necessary to conduct research employing experimental design with longitudinal data captured from across industries using robust measures.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that the relationship between corporate reputation and profitability may reside in reputation's influence on customer loyalty, and that reputation plays an important role within the ACSM. This study is one of the first documented attempts to use PLS to test a mediation effect.
Quantum leap breakthrough performance in acquisitions
Authors: Chatzkel Jay , Saint‐Onge Hubert
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how the goal of quantum leap breakthrough performance in acquisitions is to enable readers to achieve an unprecedented leap in performance as a result of major acquisitions.

Design/methodology/approach

This requires first, establishing acquisition readiness by developing a core set of capabilities and second, using a breakthrough approach that fuses both growth and expense cutting synergies to accomplish the quantum leap performance gains, especially during the integration stages. These capabilities enable the successful integration of the acquired organization and the emergence of the new entity.

Findings

The paper finds that those organizations that are going to win at this game are the ones that have the best capabilities for effecting the right acquisition and who can implement the best integration. Those capabilities are the name of the game.

Practical implications

The focus on capabilities is the prime distinguishing feature of quantum leap breakthrough performance in acquisitions. This is based on an organization developing the capabilities for core integration. Whether you are an integrator or a target, it is essential to have these capabilities.

Originality/value

If an organization wants to excel at developing, acquiring and integration, it needs have the following core set of capabilities: strategic agility, market agility, organization building, people management, project and process management and knowledge management, learning and innovation. When these capabilities interact with a set of six catalyzing springboards (i.e. customer strategy, organization strategy, integrating culture and leadership principles, a people strategy, integrating knowledge systems, and information technology architecture) the organization can achieve an extraordinary quantum leap in value.
Valuation of intellectual capital in knowledge‐based firms
Authors: Bose Sanjoy , Thomas Keith
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to link two key disciplines in finance and science in a way which is representative of the many challenges in the development of the knowledge economy. However, the valuation of intangibles remains a contentious issue in finance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the financial and economic issues pertaining to the valuation of intellectual capital are evaluated and addressed.

Findings

An important aspect of raising capital is the ability to impute a fair value on the asset.

Research limitations/implications

The investigative process involves evaluating and assessing the appropriateness and efficiency of current models and finds them to be inadequate in yielding the true value of intellectual capital employed in knowledge‐intensive firms.

Practical implications

A new methodology for valuation is indeed required, and this value driver valuation processes may produce significantly better understandings of the worth of intellectual capital in the knowledge economy.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates various methods that are currently used and recommends the development of a valuation process for new and evolving technologies.
Constructing a definition for intangibles using the resource based view of the firm
Authors: Kristandl Gerhard , Bontis Nick
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct and propose a definition for intangibles derived from the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm for use in academic research and practical applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Intangibles are defined as a subset of corporate resources. In this paper, various definitions for intangibles are tested against the RBV framework.

Findings

The majority of definitions in the extant literature are (implicitly or explicitly) in synchronization with the RBV. Thus, it is possible to find and propose a common definition for intangibles.

Research limitations/implications

Some researchers argue that the field is still in its embryonic stages and thus the concepts might still be too fresh in order to find a stable common definition.

Practical implications

The paper offers a conceptual lens through which one can clearly link intangibles to strategy and offers a proposed definition of intangibles that incorporates a meta‐review of the literature.

Originality/value

The paper shows that it is in fact possible to accommodate various definitions of intangibles under one common framework and propose a unified characterization.
Does HRM fit really matter to citizenship and task performance?
Authors: Chandrakumara Anil
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to provide a theoretical foundation and empirical evidence on the impact of HRM fit on citizenship and task performance (CTP) of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of recently published articles were critically reviewed in order to argue that HRM fit is useful to address issues of substandard CTP. A hybrid type of research design was adopted to collect both quantitative and qualitative data through questionnaires and interviews. Analysis is based on 433 survey responses gathered from employees and managers of seven manufacturing companies in Sri Lanka.

Findings

The findings provide evidence not only to confirm the HRM fit hypothesis (which states that the higher the HRM fit, the greater the performance) but also to negate the said hypothesis in relation to some HRM practices. It is also revealed that HRM fit does not matter to the majority of HRM practices examined, and that HRM fit is more important for citizenship performance (CP) than for task performance (TP).

Research limitations/implications

The findings represent the Sri Lankan manufacturing sector sample only. The selection of HRM practices was limited to the HRM typology of Schuler and Jackson. The extent to which person‐organisation fit may change for individuals over the course of their employment was not considered.

Practical implications

The paper addresses the issue of transferability of HRM practices and aids practitioners to assess the impact of person‐organization fit on specific HRM practices. The relationship between the HR planning and control system and CTP sends signals for practitioners to consider the incorporation of HRM fit concept in selection, training and development, and the design of HRM systems.

Originality/value

The paper presents an exploration of the HRM fit concept and CTP and provides empirical evidence in a developing country context. An innovative analytical approach that addresses several person‐organisation fit methodological issues is presented, which could contribute to the current knowledge and future research.
Psychological climate and individual performance in India: test of a mediated model
Authors: Biswas Soumendu , Varma Arup
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between psychological climate and employee performance, in the Indian environment, in order to understand better the conditions that foster high levels of in‐role and extra‐role performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review, the paper includes organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and job satisfaction as mediating variables. Further, it uses data obtained from 357 managerial employees in the manufacturing and service sectors in India to analyze the relationships.

Findings

The results support the hypotheses that an individual's perception of the psychological climate in the organization has a significant positive impact on his/her willingness to engage in OCBs, as well as on his/her job satisfaction levels. Further, OCB and job satisfaction levels have a significant impact on individuals' performance.

Research limitations/implications

The present study relies exclusively on cross‐sectional data, limiting the ability to generalize beyond a point. Further, a significant majority of the respondents were male, again limiting generalizability.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that Indian organizations need to pay attention to employee perceptions of the work environment, and that human resource strategies should go beyond establishing policies and procedures to fostering a employee‐friendly work environment that promotes both in‐role and extra‐role performance.

Originality/value

This study emphasizes the importance of both in‐role and extra‐role performance in the Indian context. Further, given India's rise on the world economic scene, the findings suggest that organizations wishing to sustain their competitiveness and growth levels need to pay attention to their employees' perceptions and beliefs.
People management issues in Indian KPOs
Authors: Raghu Raman S. , Budhwar Pawan , Balasubramanian G.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The business process outsourcing (BPO) industry in India is evolving rapidly, and one of the key characteristics of this industry is the emergence of high‐end services offered by knowledge processing outsourcing (KPO) organizations. These organizations are set to grow at a tremendous pace. Given the people‐intensive nature of this industry, efficient employee management is bound to play a critical role. The literature lacks studies offering insights into the HR challenges involved and the ways in which they are addressed by KPOs. The purpose of this paper is to attempt to fill this gap by presenting findings from an in‐depth case study of a KPO organization.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the research objective we adopted an in‐depth case study approach. The research setting was that of a KPO organization in India, which specialises in offering complex analytics, accounting and support services to the real estate and financial services industries.

Findings

The results of this study highlight the differences in the nature of work characteristics in such organizations as compared to call centres. The study also highlights some of the key people management challenges that these organizations face like attracting and retaining talent. The case company adopts formal, structured, transparent and innovative human resource practices. The study also highlights that such enlightened human resource practices stand on the foundations laid by an open work environment and facilitative leadership.

Research limitations/implications

One of the key limitations is that the analysis is based on primary data from a single case study and only 18 interviews. The analysis contributes to the fields of KPO, HRM and India and has key messages for policy makers.

Originality/value

The literature on outsourcing has in general focused on call centres established in the developed world. However, the booming BPO industry in India is also beginning to offer high‐end services, which are far above the typical call centres. These KPOs and their people management challenges are relatively unexplored territories in the literature. By conducting this study in an emerging market (India) and focusing on people‐related challenges in KPOs, this study attempts to provide a fresh perspective to the extant BPO literature.
Integration and devolvement of human resource practices in Nepal
Authors: Gautam Dhruba Kumar , Davis Ann J.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the nature of human resource management in publicly listed finance sector companies in Nepal. In particular, it explores the extent to which HR practice is integrated into organisational strategy and devolved to line management.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured interview was conducted with the senior executive responsible for human resource management in 26 commercial banks and insurance companies in Nepal.

Findings

The degree of integration of HR practice appears to be increasing within this sector, but this is dependent on the maturity of the organisations. The devolvement of responsibility to line managers is at best partial, and in the case of the insurance companies, it is more out of necessity due to the absence of a strong central HR function.

Research limitations/implications

The survey is inevitably based on a small sample; however this represents 90 per cent of the relevant population. The data suggest that Western HR is making inroads into more developed aspects of Nepalese business. Compared with Nepalese business as a whole, the financial sector appears relatively Westernised, although Nepal still lags India in its uptake of HR practices.

Practical implications

It appears unlikely from a cultural perspective that the devolvement of responsibility will be achieved as a result of HR strategy. National cultural, political and social factors continue to be highly influential in shaping the Nepalese business environment.

Originality/value

Few papers have explored HR practice in Nepal. This paper contributes to the overall assessment of HR uptake globally and highlights emic features impacting on that uptake.
Gender role portrayals and sexism in Spanish magazines
Authors: Royo‐Vela Marcelo , Aldás‐Manzano Joaquin , Küster‐Boluda Ińes
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to analyse the male and female stereotypes in Spanish magazine advertising during the last three decades of the twentieth century in order to determine if they reflect or not the important cultural changes of Spanish society in these years.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of 1,033 different advertisements randomly selected. To ensure reliability two independent codifiers of opposite gender worked together, one as an analyst and other as a judge. Three agreement indices were calculated.

Findings

Use of male and female portrayals has undergone relevant changes in the last 30 years in accordance with the social evolution of Spain. For both men and women stereotypes persist but there has been a move from the portrayal of the character in situations considered socially traditional to less traditional scenarios. At the end of the period analysed, Spanish magazines show low and decreasing levels of sexism.

Research limitations/implications

Only one advertising medium and one country have been analysed.

Originality/value

This is the first study developed in Spain in gender role stereotyping and sexism, and has been analysed through a longitudinal research.
Painting equality: female artists as cultural entrepreneurial marketers
Authors: Rentschler Ruth
Published: October 2007

Purpose

There is growing interest by marketers in historical accounts that paint early female artists as entrepreneurial marketers. The purpose of this paper is to challenge the traditional view of entrepreneurship to incorporate a feminist theory of cultural entrepreneurship by considering the role of two female artists.

Design/methodology/approach

Using calls for historical research and new methods of enquiry in marketing, this paper traces early female artists and applies modern entrepreneurial theory to their marketing methods to identify their innovation, adaptability to change and planned marketing approach.

Findings

The paper suggests that entrepreneurial marketing is fused with the artists’ persona resulting in their celebrated status being widely recognised. It contributes an important fresh body of knowledge to the wider entrepreneurship debate by offering a new model of cultural entrepreneurial marketing. The three concepts of innovation, adaptability and marketing approach have not previously been applied to link women artists as entrepreneurs, however, this article argues that there is plenty of evidence to do so.

Research limitations/implications

While these artists are Australian (which could be seen to be a limitation), the art market is indeed international. In this respect, these artists join a longer international history as producers and consumers involved in entrepreneurial organisations from early days.

Originality/value

The artists’ significance falls within the context of emerging modernism, feminism and cultural identity during the 1920s and 1930s in Sydney, Australia. It is combined with and explains the actions and the success of two female artists’ unusual marketing approach. It is of value to readers interested in historical context regarding equality in the visual arts.
“Radical mainstreaming” of fairtrade: the case of The Day Chocolate Company
Authors: Doherty Bob , Tranchell Sophi
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to further develop the recent discourse surrounding the mainstreaming of fairtrade (FT) products, particularly the concepts of “radical mainstreaming”, “clean‐wash” and “the Alternative High Street”. The research investigates the pros and cons of mainstreaming FT in the concentrated UK retail sector via the exemplar of The Day Chocolate Company.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a longitudinal case study of one of the original “trail blazers” for FT in the mainstream, the 100 per cent FT social enterprise, The Day Chocolate Company (Day). The authors possess special insight to this pioneering FT model due to their unique experience of working at Day and the lead author's research, which includes findings from a series of in depth semi‐structured interviews with key informants.

Findings

With particular reference to the concepts Clean‐wash/ “Fair Trade Lite” the paper critically analyses the advantages and disadvantages of mainstreaming FT. The paper demonstrates how radical mainstreaming by 100 per cent FT companies can actually strengthen the transformative message of FT and not undermine the original ethical interest. Their ability to communicate a more complex deep message to a wider audience via unique FT brands allows radical mainstreaming companies to raise the bar and avoid the dangers of Clean‐wash. Finally the paper illustrates the significance of the Alternative High Street for radical mainstreaming companies.

Research limitations/implications

The radical mainstreaming innovation in the paper demonstrates the value of intangibles such as relationships and networks. This means companies such as Day, could be better positioned than their private sector rivals to take advantage of the new dominant logic of marketing as it uses more operant resources to co‐create value between producers, retailers and consumers. Further research will investigate in more depth the nature of those operant resources.

Originality/value

This paper will be of interest to all key stakeholders within the FT movement including marketing professionals and other “values‐driven organisations” such as social enterprises. This research shows that sales in the UK mainstream retail market are not enough in maintaining the original ethical interests of FT; you need business models such as Day, that share power and value added between Southern and Northern partners. Further development of such radical mainstreaming business models is key to strengthening both sales and the original transformative message of FT.
Understanding the context for best practice facilities management from the client's perspective
Authors: Atkin Brian , Björk Bo‐Christer
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The paper has the purpose of demonstrating that (business) process modelling can be used to portray facilities management as a hierarchical set of activities which combine to satisfy the business needs of the client organisation. The paper aims to show, through a top‐down approach, how service provision must be set in a wide context if its role in fulfilling those needs is to be successful. The question of whether or not to outsource services is given particular prominence. A secondary purpose is to show how best practice and attempts to improve current practice can benefit from the modelling approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Business process (IDEF0) modelling is used to portray the facilities management process from the perspective of the client organisation.

Findings

Service provision must be set in a wide context if decisions and their outcomes are to be consistent with the delivery of best value and customer satisfaction. The model of the facilities management process presented in the paper shows, for instance, where and how the decision to outsource or retain services in‐house fits into the total picture. The transparency afforded by the model and the procedures that can be derived from it will enable clients to reach a competent decision and not one based on incomplete consideration. Furthermore, clients are able pursue a policy of continual improvement and with that practices that can be regarded as “best” in their context. As a template of current best practice, the model is also the context for evaluating the worth of new insights and novel practices.

Research limitations/implications

The model is limited to a top‐down approach to the facilities management process; as such, it does not consider very detailed issues.

Originality/value

There exists no authoritative model of the facilities management process from the client's perspective. The issue of context has not received adequate treatment in the literature.
Simulation application for resource allocation in facility management processes in hospitals
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Abel Jochen , Al‐Hussein Mohamed , Lennerts Kunibert , Pfründer Uwe
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The increasing percentage of aging population (longer life expectancy) and the changing financial policies in the healthcare systems put governments under pressure to optimize its healthcare expenditures without compromising quality. One way to cut down the costs is through improving and optimizing the facility management processes. This paper aims to focus on the issues surrounding this.

Design/methodology/approach

To demonstrate the application of the research, service management (SM) process which deals with the building services related requests from the customer, one of the facility management (FM) processes, is taken as the focus of this paper. The study applies the lean principles to the SM process to identify the value added and non‐value added activities in the process. Process logistics flow is modified to comply with the lean theory. The collected data from six participating hospitals in Germany for the two months of the year 2002 are also used as inputs for the simulation model.

Findings

Simulation is used to quantify the impact of the lean principles proposed changes on the system performance. The simulation analysis has proved to be an effective tool in the selection of optimum resources for the SM process in hospitals. The implementation of lean and simulation will assist the facility manager in the selection of the optimum crew size in various sub processes, thus eliminating the trial and error approach.

Research limitations/implications

To develop a generic model for all categories of hospitals, substantial data are needed for the simulation model. In this paper, the SM process results from one category of hospitals are presented.

Practical implications

The methodology can be extended to the other FM processes in different hospitals, with proper modification.

Originality/value

The simulated process model was useful to analyze “what if” scenarios for the decision‐making regarding optimum resource allocation.
Using the semantic web for project information management
Authors: Ruikar D. , Anumba C.J. , Duke A. , Carrillo P.M. , Bouchlaghem N.M.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

This paper has the purpose of exploring the use of the semantic web to support project information management. It aims to discuss the development of a semantic web based framework for shared definitions of terms, resources and relationships within a construction project. These can be used to help and support intelligent collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores the scope of using the semantic web to manage information management processes in the construction industry. It develops the hypothesis that information can be managed using appropriate tools and techniques and develops a roadmap that shows the way in which a solution can be achieved.

Findings

The discussion provides information on the technology that can be used to manage construction project information and the development of ontology is provided in detail.

Originality/value

The paper makes an original contribution of exploring an area (information management tools and techniques) that is at the forefront of discussion in academe and industry in the UK.
Valuation of AW: modeling the impacts of distractions
Authors: Roper Kathy O. , Juneja Parminder
Published: October 2007

Purpose

Auditory and visual distractions originating in the workspace have been shown to negatively impact the performance of knowledge workers on complex tasks. The paper aims to theorize that an adaptable workspace (AW) can mitigate the negative impacts on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual multi‐attribute utility model is presented to facilitate decision‐maker's choice between a static and an adaptable workspace. A mathematical model is presented to evaluate the net present value (NPV) of deploying AW in a knowledge organization. The significance of valuation model is an integration of costs of distractions into the NPV calculations. Negative impacts of distractions are modeled as performance costs. The model also captures the costs of deploying AW so that a comparative benefit of adopting AW over a static workspace is recognized.

Findings

The significant positive results for NPV justifies investments in AW over a standard open workspace with the exception for distraction‐free work environments. These calculations can be performed to compare a number of alternatives so that an informed decision is made for the type of a workspace to be designed.

Research limitation/implications

Auditory and visual distractions originating from workspace surroundings are only part of the complete list of distractions in a workplace, but are considered for this model because these are cited as significant problems in knowledge organizations. The model variables are identified based on the existing literature; further development is proposed for future research.

Originality/value

Research to quantify the value of elimination of distractions can have practical and valuable applications for facility decision makers, architects, engineers, and knowledge organizations.
Client influence in residential property valuations: an empirical study
Authors: Amidu Abdul‐Rasheed , Tajudeen Aluko Bioye
Published: October 2007

Purpose

In recent years, studies have established that valuation estimates are likely to be biased estimates of market values due to client influence. These studies, which have made a significant contribution to real estate literature, were based mainly on UK, USA and New Zealand experience. The purpose of this paper is to examine the prevalence of client influence and the impact on valuation in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was administered to estate surveyors and valuers to gauge their professional opinion with regard to client influence, sources of such influence and types of threats used by clients. A behavioural experiment, incorporating two non‐valuation factors, was also included for the respondents to role‐play the decision of an estate surveyor and valuer subject to an ethical dilemma.

Findings

The survey revealed that nearly 80 per cent of estate surveyors and valuers claimed some knowledge of client influence, mostly from a private individual. The results of the logistic regression model also indicated that the decisions of estate surveyors and valuers as to whether to alter valuation outcome upon clients' request are not affected by either of the two non‐valuation factors (client size and value adjustment).

Research limitations/implications

It is recognised that the findings from the behavioural experiments (role play) utilised in the survey, may or may not be a true reflection of the real world responses of estate surveyors and valuers.

Originality/value

The paper contributes significantly to the empirical literature on behavioural real estate research. In particular, the findings from the study could serve as a framework for improving Estate Surveyors and Valuers Guidance Notes of 1985 to ensure transparency in the valuation process.
RAT online: martial arts learning resources
Authors: Yates Steven
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to document the development and evaluation of a multimedia resource for the principles, techniques and syllabus content for Rough and Tumble (RAT) – a South African martial art.

Design/methodology/approach

The researcher uses the Eclectic‐Mixed Methods‐Pragmatic Paradigm (EMMPP) as the theoretical framework. Development research provides the basis for varied research methods and instruments, which tie into the practical and complex nature of the EMMPP. The researcher uses both a quantitative and qualitative approach, but the study is mostly qualitative in nature, due to the small numbers of participants. Data and findings are triangulated with a wide variety of methods, instruments and participants. Methods include expert reviews, observation, records, and learner feedback.

Findings

Experts, learners and users report favourably on the usefulness, usability, functionality, appeal, and effectiveness of the RAT CD‐ROM as a learning and reference resource. Observation (cognitive walkthrough) reveals that inexperienced users experienced problems with navigation.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by its small numbers of participants, making it difficult to conduct useful quantitative analysis. As the project matures the researcher is creating a version of the RAT CD‐ROM on the WWW, which requires further evaluation.

Practical implications

This research is useful in the domain of online learning, as it shows that support for kinaesthetic kinds of learning can occur in computer mediated environments.

Originality/value

This study is not the only work being done on martial arts learning on the WWW, but it is unique in that the researcher has created complex learning environments that allow learners to create, contribute, and demonstrate new knowledge, skills and attitudes. The RAT CD‐ROM has value for learners and teachers of RAT, as they have useful, effective learning and reference resources. Other martial artists may benefit from the RAT CD‐ROM, as several other martial arts systems have been included on the RAT CD‐ROM.
Malware: the new legal risk
Authors: Etsebeth Verine
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to show that companies world‐wide are being placed under increasing pressure by an onslaught of cyber risks and malware is one of the most common sources of security failures at present. The position in South Africa is no exception and malware presents a very real danger to corporate South Africa's information assets, resources and systems, as it has the capacity to undermine firewalls, hijack Virtual Private Networks (VPN's) and defeat digital signatures. The threats associated with malware have several salient legal issues embedded in it and these are elaborated in the paper. Unfortunately, corporate South Africa is still largely ignorant of the range of tools available to the “Darkside” and the potential legal consequences which may ensue if this cyber risk materialises. The article helps in the understanding of the problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines malware, and more specifically legal liability for malware from a South African perspective. The account contained in this contribution deals with the question whether or not a company who falls victim to a malware attack or unwillingly facilitates such an attack, may be held legally liable. This is done by giving a brief overview of the nature of the cyber risk malware, before moving on to observe the consequences which may ensue if a malware attack occurs. Corporations who fall victim to malware attacks or unwittingly facilitates such an attack may suffer: direct damage; indirect damage; and physiological damage.

Findings

It will be pointed out that malware attacks may result in legal liability in civil law for the “victim” company because of its failure to take reasonable steps to secure the information assets, resources and systems of the company.

Research limitations/implications

It will furthermore be observed that companies who unwillingly facilitate malware attacks, where for instance the company's own employee uses company resources to launch a virus attack, may be faced with legal liability in the form of vicarious liability.

Practical implications

Suggestions are made on how to avoid legal liability for failed information security.

Originality/value

No such a study has yet been undertaken in South Africa as most view the law and technology as strange and perhaps dangerous bedfellows. The study will also be of use, value and interest to the library and information community outside South Africa since it raises an issue of real significance.
Web access for IT staff: a developing world perspective on web abuse
Authors: Seymour L. , Nadasen K.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to address increasing levels of web misuse, high internet costs and decisions regarding restricting web access, this research set out to identify factors that contribute to positive web use or reduce web misuse in the work environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of planned behaviour has been used in previous research to investigate factors that contribute to web abuse in the workplace. These factors, potential demographic factors that could impact web abuse as well as factors that make the advantages of the web possible were surveyed amongst information technology (IT) professionals in the Western Cape IT sector in 2004. The 94 responses were then analysed quantitatively.

Findings

Results showed that higher levels of web access increased perceptions of information literacy and information access. None of the subjective norm or attitudinal antecedents showed significant support for reducing web abuse. Interestingly, close managerial supervision displayed significance by increasing web abuse. Demographic factors of firm size, number of years internet use, age and profession showed significance in predicting web abuse.

Research limitations/implications

Attitudinal factors such as playfulness, self‐efficacy and internet addiction were not included in this study and could be useful in future research. Many factors followed the expected trends but failed to show significance, a larger and more diverse sample size could have improved the results.

Originality/value

The research findings are of interest to practitioners trying to manage web abuse and are also relevant in the context of high cost internet access and low bandwidth prevalent in many developing countries.
A study on the model to link the Korean University Library OPAC with search portals
Authors: Cho Jane
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that the dependency on search portals as a gateway for internet navigation is increasing. This phenomenon is also occurring in the academic information resource market of Korea. As a result, it is necessary to positively review linking library services with search portals. In particular, a plan to link the services of university libraries (which are recognized as private facilities of universities) is needed, utilizing them actively as public facilities connected with the local community. In this context, this study discusses a model to link the Korean University Library OPAC with search portals.

Design/methodology/approach

Analyzes the present status of cases in foreign countries – already vigorously active – and raise several points. In consideration of analysis, sets basic directions about linking library OPAC to search portals. Proposes a detailed model to link search portals with University Library Union Catalogs and manifestation of Deeplink to local University Library OPAC in consideration of technical situation of Korean Library OPACs.

Findings

A major problem from established cases is that portal search engines cover all areas so retrieval results are generally vast. Users cannot easily find a path accessing library resources through search portals without special equipment.

Originality/value

This paper proposes models to link library catalogs through special sub domains or book services of portal sites using University Library Union Catalogs as a gateway. It also proposes three alternatives of Deeplink implementation to local OPACs.
Elucidating user behavior of mobile learning
Authors: Huang Jen‐Hung , Lin Yu‐Ru , Chuang Shu‐Ting
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and verify that the technology acceptance model (TAM) can be employed to explain and predict the acceptance of mobile learning (M‐learning); an activity in which users access learning material with their mobile devices. The study identifies two factors that account for individual differences, i.e. perceived enjoyment (PE) and perceived mobility value (PMV), to enhance the explanatory power of the model.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted to collect data. A total of 313 undergraduate and graduate students in two Taiwan universities answered the questionnaire. Most of the constructs in the model were measured using existing scales, while some measurement items were created specifically for this research. Structural equation modeling was employed to examine the fit of the data with the model by using the LISREL software.

Findings

The results of the data analysis shows that the data fit the extended TAM model well. Consumers hold positive attitudes for M‐learning, viewing M‐learning as an efficient tool. Specifically, the results show that individual differences have a great impact on user acceptance and that the perceived enjoyment and perceived mobility can predict user intentions of using M‐learning.

Originality/value

There is scant research available in the literature on user acceptance of M‐learning from a customer's perspective. The present research shows that TAM can predict user acceptance of this new technology. Perceived enjoyment and perceived mobility value are antecedents of user acceptance. The model enhances our understanding of consumer motivation of using M‐learning. This understanding can aid our efforts when promoting M‐learning.
E‐book reading groups: interacting with e‐books in public libraries
Authors: Landoni Monica , Hanlon Gillian
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe an experiment in introducing fiction e‐books in two reading groups run by a public library.

Design/methodology/approach

A user study involving two reading groups run over a period of three months. Electronic versions of titles of interest to each group were given out to each participant on Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Readers were then asked to fill in a satisfaction questionnaire and discuss their experience with the rest of their group.

Findings

Readers were not too negative about using a new tool/gadget like the PDA but they did not see any advantage in reading an electronic version of the selected book.

Research limitations/implications

It was realised quite earlier on that the target readers were emotionally so attached to physical books to feel as if they were betraying them when reading them electronically. A different sample of users more inclined to use technology and more open to different publishing models would have possibly provided a better insight.

Originality/value

The group reading approach introduced a social side to the adoption of e‐books and it was hoped that that would have made a difference. It was also one of the first attempts to look into the use of fiction e‐books in public libraries as opposed to an already existing number of studies looking into e‐books and their use in education and academic libraries. As such it can benefit both publishers and librarians.
Spirituality, stewardship, and financial decision‐making
Authors: McCuddy Michael K. , Pirie Wendy L.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a theory of intertemporal stewardship that incorporates stewardship, based on a foundation of spirituality, into financial decision‐making models.

Design/methodology/approach

Argues that stewardship, which shares some common ground with sustainable development, must become an integral component of financial decision‐making. Using agency theory as a point of departure, discusses the Anglo‐American and Continental European‐Japanese models of financial decision‐making, and how they can be reformulated to embrace stewardship and the spiritual foundation upon which stewardship is based. The key to linking spirituality and stewardship is our concept of self‐fullness – the simultaneous pursuit of reasonable self‐interest and reasonable concern for the common good of all human beings. The reformulated model of financial decision‐making is labeled intertemporal stewardship theory.

Findings

The merger of spirituality, stewardship, and financial decision‐making is crucial for the survival and prosperity of businesses and the people they serve. The failure of businesses in the new economy can be traced to the loss of values regarding spirituality and stewardship.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical research must be conducted to test the validity of the proposed intertemporal stewardship theory.

Practical implications

It is essential that managers base their decisions on internalized spiritual and stewardship values that they do not “park at the door” when they arrive at work. Managers should never lose sight of these values, and their decisions should always be grounded in these values. Without such grounding, it is very possible that once again managers will be caught in a cycle of “irrational exuberance”. Therefore, it is critical that these values become not only an integral part of financial decision‐making but also an integral part of education for financial decision‐making.

Originality/value

The financial bottom line is that financial decision‐making can no longer be devoid of spiritual and stewardship considerations if an organization is to survive and prosper over the long term. Neither can business organizations deny spirituality and stewardship considerations if they are to be socially responsible members of society, contributing to and upholding a moral existence for all humanity. In this sense then, the conception of intertemporal stewardship theory that is offered in this paper takes a step toward realizing these greater goals.