bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Service pricing: a multi‐step synthetic approach
Authors: Tung Wei , Capella Louis M. , Tat Peter K.
Published: June 2007

Examines the advantages and disadvantages of six service pricing approaches in the service literature including: traditional cost‐oriented approach; traditional competitive‐oriented approach; extended cost‐oriented approach; differentiation premium approach; client‐driven approach; and bundle pricing approach. Proposes a multi‐step synthetic pricing approach and a framework to deal with the complexity of service pricing. Compared with other pricing approaches, the multi‐step synthetic service pricing approach has the advantages of considering simultaneously the crucial aspects of service pricing: market competitiveness; internal cost‐profit structure; bundling and unbundling service pricing; service characteristics premium; price standard limits; client‐oriented price/demand sensitivity; and client‐oriented profit maximization. Provides an example to demonstrate the managerial application of the proposed approach.
Accounting for public heritage facilities – assets or liabilities of the government?
Authors: Barton Allan D.
Published: June 2007

Public heritage facilities – national parks, art galleries, museums and so on – are now required by professional accounting standards in Australia to be valued and included in government general purpose financial statements as assets. This study challenges the appropriateness of such an accounting treatment in relation to the SAC4 definition of assets and the purported usefulness of the information. Instead it is argued that these facilities are public goods, and that commercial accounting principles should not be applied to them. The article explains the nature and significance of public goods and how they differ from private goods. It explains why commercial accounting principles are irrelevant for public heritage facilities because their objectives are social rather than financial and why commercial valuations are irrelevant and unreliable if applied to them. Finally, it is contended that the facilities are assets held in trust for the nation by government and hence should not be included in its general purpose financial reports.
Environmental management systems as an embedding mechanism: a research note
Authors: Albelda Pérez Esther , Correa Ruiz Carmen , Carrasco Fenech Francisco
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the interplay between strategy, environmental management systems and environmental accounting, and their role in improving environmental performance.

Design/methodology/approach

By engaging with organisations through field research, this paper analyses the aspects of the European Community's Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), an environmental management system (EMS), that act as catalysts for change through the development of intangible assets that improve environmental performance. Evidence is collected from semi‐structured interviews with environmental managers and management accountants from ten Spanish EMAS registered sites.

Findings

The embedding mechanisms of EMAS are considered. From the analysis, six valuable intangible assets for improving environmental performance were identified: awareness of employees; environmental knowledge, skills and expertise of employees; the commitment of managers; cross‐functional coordination; the integration of environmental issues in strategic planning process; and, the use of management accounting practices. These intangible assets were used to define three levels of environmental embeddedness: primary, visible, and advanced.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights into the interface between environmental management systems and management accounting and the implications of this for organisational change and environmental performance.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to fieldwork research within the environmental accounting literature by engaging with organisations in addressing the question of how EMAS improves environmental performance. Furthermore, it demonstrates that involvement primarily of internal, but also external, participants enhances further development of EMAS.
Managing clinical failure: a complex adaptive system perspective
Authors: Matthews Jean I. , Thomas Paul T.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore the knowledge capture process at the clinical level. It aims to identify factors that enable or constrain learning. The study applies complex adaptive system thinking principles to reconcile learning within the NHS.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a qualitative exploratory study with an interpretative methodological stance set in a secondary care NHS Trust. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with healthcare practitioners and managers involved at both strategic and operational risk management processes.

Findings

A network structure is revealed that exhibits the communication and interdependent working practices to support knowledge capture and adaptive learning. Collaborative multidisciplinary communities, whose values reflect local priorities and promote open dialogue and reflection, are featured. The main concern is that the characteristics of bureaucracy; rational‐legal authority, a rule‐based culture, hierarchical lines of communication and a centralised governance focus, are hindering clinical learning by generating barriers.

Practical implications

Locally emergent collaborative processes are a key strategic resource to capture knowledge, potentially fostering an environment that could learn from failure and translate lessons between contexts. What must be addressed is that reporting mechanisms serve not only the governance objectives, but also supplement learning by highlighting the potential lessons in context. Managers must nurture a collaborative infrastructure using networks in a co‐evolutionary manner. Their role is not to direct and design processes but to influence, support and create effective knowledge capture.

Originality/value

Although the study only investigated one site the findings and conclusions may well translate to other trusts – such as the risk of not enabling a learning environment at clinical levels.
Post bureaucracy and the politics of forgetting
Authors: Harris Martin , Wegg‐Prosser Victoria
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the imputed “fall” and subsequent “reinvention” of the BBC during the 1990s, relating a managerialist “politics of forgetting” to the broader ideological narratives of “the post bureaucratic turn”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a wide range of primary and secondary sources, combining case study analysis with long‐term historical perspectives on organisational change.

Findings

The paper shows the ways in which public sector professionals contested “post bureaucratic” pressures for marketisation and organisational disaggregation.

Originality/value

The paper shows the ways in which large‐scale technological, regulatory and organisational change was mediated by cultural continuities and recurrent “surges” of managerial control.
The division of the subject and the organization: a Lacanian approach to subjectivity at work
Authors: Arnaud Gilles , Vanheule Stijn
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this conceptual paper is to discuss the relevance of Lacanian psychoanalysis for thinking on organizational functioning and organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors discuss basic Lacanian ideas with regard to the notion of the unconscious and its discursive status and with respect to the crucial difference between the ego and the subject. Subjectivity is linked to the notion of the lack. The authors then address implications of Lacanian theory for thinking about and intervening in organisations.

Findings

It is argued that the non‐satisfying nature of work needs to be recognised, that organizational intervention entails an intervention on discourse, and that subjectivity is an issue to be recognized in the context of organizational functioning.

Originality/value

In discussing the implications of this point of view, the authors address the possibility of a psychoanalytic ecology of human resources.
Music as a metaphor for organizational change
Authors: Mantere Saku , Sillince John A.A. , Hämäläinen Virpi
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To explore a musical metaphor in making organizational change a potentially pleasurable experience to participants.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by challenging ideological assumptions behind classical change metaphors. To build an alternative, the paper employs musical semiotics to understand the core dimensions in a musical experience.

Findings

The paper discusses the dynamics of tension and resolution in the different dimensions of musical experience.

Originality/value

The discussion regarding the dynamics of tension and resolution in musical experience helps the reader to make sense of how an individual organizational member can understand, structure and control the experience of organizational change.
Implementation of Low Power Diode Laser for Soldering by FPC ( Fibre Push Connection) Method
Authors: Azdasht G. , Zakel E. , Reichl H.
Published: June 2007

The advances in miniaturisation and ever increasing complexity of integrated circuits frequently mean an increase in the number of connections to a component with simultaneous reduction in pitch. For these emerging smaller contact geometries, micro‐laser connection technologies are required. The reliability of the connection plays a decisive rôle. The implementation and reproducibility of laser connections technology in micro‐electronics depend on good thermal contact between the two parts and high quality absorption of the material surface used. Laser energy can cause local melting due to overheating of the lead because of the low distance between lead and bump. This effect influences the reproducibility of the contacts. Even the slightest interruption in the thermal contact of the parts can cause non‐reproducibility of the contacts. Materials with a higher quality of absorption, for example Sn(32% ), can be soldered with a good level of reproducibility. This clearly differs from gold (4% ) or copper(7% ) surfaces. Due to the low absorption of these materials it is necessary to use a laser with a higher intensity to produce the same energy. Irregularities in the quality of absorption, laser instability and thermal contact can not guarantee reproducibility of the interconnections with this high laser intensity. The FPC (fibre push connection) system offers several solutions to the problems mentioned. This system enables the laser to be transported by fibre to the contact parts. The end piece of the fibre serves at the same time as a pushing unit. The advantage of this system is that the attenuation heat of the fibre end surface is also available for the connection. This improves the use of laser energy. As part of the laser energy at the end surface of the fibre is transformed into thermal energy, independently of the absorption quality of the material used, connection of a gold‐plated contact part is possible. By pressing the connecting parts with the tip of the fibre, optimal coupling is achieved. The reproducibility of different metallisations and the reliability of connections with a pitch below 100 μm are presented as well as further applications of this system.
The Effect of Oxygen on the Surface of Solder *
Authors: Nowotarski M. , De Wilde ** R.
Published: June 2007

The effects of oxygen on solder surface tension, wetting time and surface damping are presented. Oxygen levels greater than 10 ppm lower surface
tension, increase wetting time and increase surface damping. Decreased surface tension leads to higher
misalignment defects in reflow soldering, but can lower
the incidence of dewetting. Increased wetting times can increase non‐wetting defects in both wave and
reflow soldering, especially when using no‐clean fluxes. Increased surface
damping can lead to lower bridging rates in wave soldering, provided that the oxygen level and flux
levels are properly balanced. Choosing the optimum oxygen level for
production soldering is trade ‐ off between the stability and the versatility of the process. The most
stable soldering processes will be those performed in an inert atmosphere with less than 10 ppm oxygen
.These processes are insensitive to variations in soldering machine operating parameters (i,e. a larger
process window).This is most desirable for manufacturers soldering large volumes of a given circuit
board. The soldering process can be optimised by optimising the circuit board design. The most versatile soldering processes will be those performed in an inert atmosphere with
controlled addition of oxygen in the range of 100 ppm to 10,000 ppm (1%). This will be most desirable
to manufacturers soldering short runs of a large variety of circuit boards. The soldering process is best
optimised by controlling the soldering machine operating parameters (oxygen, flux, preheat, conveyor
speed, etc.).
Leadership in management education and development: criteria for quality decisions
Authors: Rausch Erwin
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how focus on decisions can enhance management education and especially those aspects that pertain to their impact on stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on use of the model in public and private organizations.

Findings

The paper suggests that emphasis on criteria (guidelines) for quality decisions would contribute significantly to making leadership topics in management education and development more practical. It offers a tentative model consisting of guidelines in the form of six questions. The model could serve as foundation for research and the development of other models that might better suit the respective needs of decision makers in different environments. The paper points out that the model is comprehensive and solidly based on the literature. A scenario is analyzed with the use of the model to show its practical application and benefits.

Practical implications

The model is intended to provide practical use and application of leadership and motivation theories in management and private life.

Originality/value

The paper represents a refinement of a model that has been used widely in seminars and organizations.
Demand Satisfaction Communities: New Operational Relationships in the Information Age
Authors: Hewitt Fred
Published: June 2007

The recent emergence of new organizational forms, for which the term demand satisfaction communities (DSC) is proposed, raises the question as to whether supply chain management practices are about to become obsolete. By tracking the history of practices and comparing them with those required to support the newly emerging forms of organizational relationships, it is possible to conclude that we are indeed on the threshold of a major change. Supply chain managers need not be intimidated. They are as well placed as anyone to play significant roles in creating and managing the new communities.
Retail Operational Strategies in Complex Supply Chains
Authors: Lowson Robert H.
Published: June 2007

The correct choice, implementation and evolution of an operations strategy can provide considerable competitive advantage. However, how many organizations in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industries really understand the components of such strategies and their power when properly deployed? Supply chain management, lean thinking, agile operations, quick response, virtual organization, time‐based competition to name but a few, currently receive extensive coverage in management literature. But, what core competencies, management activities, resources and technologies comprise an effective operational strategy in a retail logistics context? From empirical research, we demonstrate that the various elements forming an operational strategy are often part of a distinct implementation pattern that can be customized at the level of individual product and/or customer behavior and replicates the complexity of the setting. The research aims to help management better understand demand and tailor a number of operational strategies to the behavior of that demand.
The Supply Chain Management Processes
Authors: Croxton Keely L. , García‐Dastugue Sebastián J. , Lambert Douglas M. , Rogers Dale S.
Published: June 2007

Increasingly, supply chain management is being recognized as the management of key business processes across the network of organizations that comprise the supply chain. While many have recognized the benefits of a process approach to managing the business and the supply chain, most are vague about what processes are to be considered, what sub‐processes and activities are contained in each process, and how the processes interact with each other and with the traditional functional silos. In this paper, we provide strategic and operational descriptions of each of the eight supply chain processes identified by members of The Global Supply Chain Forum, as well as illustrations of the interfaces among the processes and an example of how a process approach can be implemented within an organization. Our aim is to provide managers with a framework to be used in implementing supply chain management, instructors with material useful in structuring a supply chain management course, and researchers with a set of opportunities for further development of the field.
The Manufacturing Flow Management Process
Authors: Goldsby Thomas J. , García‐Dastugue Sebastián J.
Published: June 2007

Manufacturing flow management is the supply chain management process that includes all activities necessary to move products through the plants and to obtain, implement, and manage manufacturing flexibility in the supply chain. Manufacturing flexibility reflects the ability to make a variety of products in a timely manner at the lowest possible cost. To achieve the desired level of manufacturing flexibility, planning and execution must extend beyond the four walls of the manufacturer. In this paper, we describe the manufacturing flow management process in detail to show how it can be implemented within a company and managed across firms in the supply chain. We examine the activities of each sub‐process; evaluate the interfaces with corporate functions, processes, and firms; and provide examples of successful implementation.
A new look at logistics business performance: intellectual capital perspective
Authors: Jim Wu Yen‐Chun , Huei Chou Ya
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically explore the causal relationships between human capital, structure capital, and customer capital (CC) with intellectual capital (IC) in the logistics industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Factor analysis and path analysis were conducted on 27 major third‐party logistics providers in Europe and America.

Findings

The findings of the study show that human capital, structure capital, and CC have a positive association with IC performance. Also, IC performance does not differ between regions.

Originality/value

This paper takes a novel approach to look at the “intangible” logistics performance from the IC perspective by proposing a preliminary research model based on existing literature and empirical data.
Managing the Service Mix: After Sale Service for Competitive Advantage
Authors: Mathe Hervè , Shapiro Roy D.
Published: June 2007

More and more, customer service is proving to be a source of competitive advantage for manufacturing firms, enabling leaders to remain ahead of the pack and providing the added thrust to allow a challenger to attack and overtake the leader. The articulation of the role of service must take place during the formulation of business unit strategy. Defining the mix of services to be provided requires the understanding of customer needs throughout the entire life cycle of the customer/supplier relationship. To be successful in providing those services, management must recognize that service is a corporate‐wide activity, requiring careful cross‐functional coordination.
Dimensions Underlying Retail Logistics and Their Relationship to Supplier Evaluation Criteria
Authors: Dröge Cornelia , Germain Richard , Stock James R.
Published: June 2007

Logistics is becoming an increasingly important part of overall retail strategy because it provides opportunities for enhanced profit, market growth and sustainable competitive advantage. This research examines the underlying factors which impact retail logistics. The factors found are warehousing/transportation, supplier performance/communications, internal information systems, activity levelling and inventory/cost reduction. The extent to which many supplier evaluation criteria are used is shown to vary with some of these five underlying operational dimensions.
Customer and Non‐Customer Perceptions of Third Party Services: Are They Similar?
Authors: Sarel Dan , Zinn Walter
Published: June 2007

Competitive performance analysis typically relies on customer service surveys. This research highlights the importance of systematically including non‐customer input to customer service surveys. Findings indicate that perceptions of customers and non‐customers both on service importance and on firm performance can be significantly different. This research also examines the special requirements needed to apply results of customer service surveys in Latin America. Finally, a method for the simultaneous evaluation of multiple competitors is recommended. Strategies for developing competitive advantage based on the findings are discussed.
The Role of Customs Administration in the Structure and Efficiency of International Logistics: An International Comparison
Authors: Heaver Trevor D.
Published: June 2007

Shippers are seeking international gateways that can provide them with services consistent with “seamless logistics”. This places pressures on public and private organizations, such as customs and freight forwarders, to adopt competitive technologies and systems. Electronic data interchange and integrated logistics management practices enable significant improvements in border procedures. A comparison of developments in four countries reveals that strategic changes by customs will enable more efficient logistics services. However, customs and forwarders in the countries are progressing at different rates.
The Strategic Use of Space by Retailers: A Perspective from Operations Management
Authors: Davies Gary , Rands Tony
Published: June 2007

A retailer's selling space is one of its more important assets. While there are a number of approaches that can be adopted to define the space that is allocated to both products and customers inside the store, it is argued that few approach the problem of space allocation from the point of view of the customer. Many approaches are of tactical rather than of strategic value. A number of space allocation methods are reviewed and an alternative perspective drawn from manufacturing industry, that of Operations Management, is discussed. An observation survey of retail practice is used to illustrate how concepts from Operations Management could be applied to retail space allocation. An example of a floor plan for a grocery store is used to illustrate how such concepts can produce a radically different approach to space allocation.
Time‐Based Distribution
Authors: Abrahamsson Mats
Published: June 2007

Most industrial companies have a distribution system with many local warehouses geographically close to the customers. One or more warehouses in each country in Europe is not unusual. A change from this traditional distribution system to “Time Based Distribution”, with direct deliveries to customers all over Europe from one centralized warehouse, results in a much more competitive distribution system in terms of decreased distribution costs and increased customer service. This article presents the effects of three international Swedish companies' successful redesign of their distribution systems for the European market.
A Review and Evaluation of Logistics Performance Measurement Systems
Authors: Caplice Chris , Sheffi Yossi
Published: June 2007

Logistics encompasses a complex set of activities which require a collection of metrics to adequately measure performance. Ideally, the performance metrics used should be selected and maintained as a system, so they complement and support each other and provide the decision makers with a well balanced picture of the logistics process. Often in practice, however, performance measurement systems are not formally managed or evaluated. The result is a performance measurement “system” where the interrelations between the metrics are not known, duplication is frequent, and omission is undetectable. This paper addresses this shortcoming by developing a set of evaluation criteria for logistics performance measurement systems and applying it in two case studies.
Network Sourcing In Japan
Authors: Hines Peter
Published: June 2007

The Network Sourcing Model has been designed to capture the leading edge buyer‐supplier relationship as presently exhibited in the Japanese automotive industry. However, several observers expressed two reservations about the model. These were whether it could work outside the automotive industry and whether it could work in a recession. This paper addresses these key issues.
Information Exchange, Responsiveness and Logistics Provider Performance
Authors: Stank Theodore P. , Daugherty Patricia J. , Ellinger Alexander E.
Published: June 2007

The impact of information exchange on suppliers' performance is investigated in the context of trade relationships formed between manufacturers and third party providers of international logistics services. A conceptual model that predicts the important linkages among information exchange, responsiveness and performance is introduced and tested. The research shows that information exchange positively affects customers' perceptions of third party logistics providers' performance; information exchange also positively affects logistics providers' service responsiveness; and logistics provider responsiveness affects customers' perceptions of the providers' performance. These linkages provide a fuller understanding of why and how information exchange influences manufacturers' perceptions of the performance of third party logistics providers. Logistics providers that used information obtained from trading partners to develop more responsive operations were viewed as better performers.
Customer Driven Marketing in the Transportation/Logistics Industry
Authors: Neuschel Robert P. , Russell Dawn M.
Published: June 2007

Since deregulation of the airlines in 1978, and rail and truck in 1980, the transportation/logistics Industry has undergone significant changes. The trend has been one of improved efficiency and extreme price and cost pressures, requiring more of a customer driven marketing approach on the part of transportation/logistics service providers. This article identifies some of the more significant changes that have affected the industry and offers considerations for decision making to those who are tasked with making critical marketing decisions. Finally, a vision of the future of the transportation/logistics industry is presented.
The Impact of Modular Production on the Dynamics of Supply Chains
Authors: van Hoek Remko I. , Weken Harm A.M.
Published: June 2007

The principle of modular production has been applied internally by companies since the 1960's. Innovative companies in various industries are now experimenting with application of the concept in a supply chain setting. Modular production makes it possible to further involve distributors and suppliers in the manufacturing process and create a new tier of suppliers in the automotive industry; that of the “zero‐level supplier”. Expected benefits of the increased integration in the inbound and outbound flow of goods are improved responsiveness to customers and increased efficiency. It can be questioned, however to what extent manufacturers can increase the amount of control over operational activities based on networking, as opposed to control based on ownership, without becoming an empty design and marketing company. This paper assesses the impact of the new model of modular production on the dynamics in supply chains as a whole and the consequences for individual players, based on innovative cases such as that of the SMART car.
The Importance of Logistics Efficiency to Customer Service and Firm Performance
Authors: Tracey Michael
Published: June 2007

Logistics is considered to have a significant impact on a manufacturing organization's performance. This research utilizes a pilot study, a large‐scale survey of manufacturing managers, and linear structural relations (LISREL). The research methods develop measures and test relationships among six constructs: physical supply, physical distribution, logistics spanning processes, customer service, manufacturing flexibility, and firm performance. The results from the research confirm that logistics influences a manufacturer's ability to satisfy customers and overall performance. The level of manufacturing flexibility in the firm, as indicated by the presence of advanced process technology and the participation of manufacturing management in strategy formulation, alters logistics role in organizational success.
Managing Inflexible Supply Chains
Authors: Jenkins Gareth P. , Wright Derek S.
Published: June 2007

Logistics managers are faced with greater customer volatility, higher customer service expectations and pressure to reduce costs. If these conflicting pressures are to be reconciled, increased supply chain flexibility is vital. Enhanced flexibility is achieved through two types of changes to the supply chain: structural changes, including processes, physical resources and linkages/relationships; and, system changes, including how information is used and decisions taken. Structural changes include reducing lead‐times from suppliers, JIT manufacture, and holding stocks at customers' sites. System changes may include speeding information flow and deploying information technology to improve planning and control of the supply chain.
The Impact of Agile Manufacturing on Supply Chain Dynamics
Authors: Towill Denis R. , McCullen Peter
Published: June 2007

Traditional supply chains can greatly amplify changes in end‐customer demand and thereby produce their own internally generated boom‐and‐bust scenarios. Improvement in supply chain performance is often greatly separated by time (many months) and distance (many miles) from the action taken to trigger better customer service coupled with lower stockholdings. A global long‐term view must therefore be taken if we are to be sure that enhancement is real and permanent. This paper outlines the problem areas associated with supply chain dynamics and reviews a set of Supply Chain Material Flow Principles originally based on established results from simulation models and observation of good industrial practice. The paper further shows that these Principles were embedded in an Agile Manufacturing Program undertaken in order to re‐engineer a real‐world mechanical precision products global supply chain. Subsequent improvements in supply chain dynamics recorded include a 45 per cent reduction in global inventory and the damping of supply chain amplification patterns by up to 58 per cent.
Automatic Replenishment Programs and Level of Involvement: Performance Implications
Authors: Ellinger Alexander E. , Taylor John C. , Daugherty Patricia J.
Published: June 2007

In Today's increasingly complex business environment, many firms are working more closely and sharing greater information with trading partners. The utilization of automatic replenishment programs (ARPs) for inventory management represents an example of how firms are cooperating to improve overall efficiency and service. However, ARP is still a relatively new phenomenon, and ARP‐related benefits cannot be realized without changes to working practices that require considerable time and financial commitment. Whether such commitments are warranted has yet to be established. Little empirical work is available detailing ARP performance to date. This research examines the implementation of ARP components, firms' effectiveness at achieving ARP‐related goals and associations between firms' level of involvement with ARP and ARP‐related performance. Findings suggest that more extensive involvement with ARP is beneficial. Firms that handle a larger proportion of their sales volume with ARPs reported greater success in terms of profitability and trading partner relationships.
Supply Chain Management: A New Challenge for Researchers and Managers in Logistics
Authors: Skjoett‐Larsen Tage
Published: June 2007

Supply Chain Management (SCM) has recently become a popular theme at management conferences and in international journals. However, the concept is not well defined and only implemented in relatively few companies in Europe, typically large, multinational companies. Also, research and educational programs within SCM are exceptional at most European business schools and universities. One reason may be that SCM is a new discipline without established theoretical frameworks and generally accepted methodologies. The paper begins with a definition of supply chain management and discusses the need for a new paradigm for logistics research. It then introduces three different theoretical perspectives on supply chain management: the transaction cost approach; the network perspective; and, the resource‐based view. The three perspectives represent an economic, a sociological and a strategic approach to an analysis of supply chain management. In combination, these approaches can provide logistics researchers and managers with a strong conceptual framework for analyzing supply chain management in theory and practice. This is illustrated by a discussion of two strategic supply chain issues: managing a portfolio of supplier relationships and third‐ logistics.
Supply‐chain operations reference model (SCOR): the first cross‐industry framework for integrated supply‐chain management
Authors: Stewart Gordon
Published: June 2007

The supply‐chain operations reference model (SCOR) is the first cross‐industry framework for evaluating and improving enterprise‐wide supply‐chain performance and management. The culmination of intensive work by 70 world‐class manufacturers, SCOR provides standard process definitions, terminology and metrics. It will enable companies to benchmark themselves against others, and influence future applications development efforts to ensure fit with manufacturers’ needs. The emerging process reference model concept is the logical extension of business process re‐engineering and other process improvement efforts. SCOR, which is structured in four levels, is based on a plan, source, make, deliver framework.
Shopping for pleasure? Shopping experiences of Hungarian consumers
Authors: Millan Elena S. , Howard Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To examine shopping motives and behaviour in shopping centres in Hungary, which has seen rapid and recent development in its retail structure. To explore whether the level of hedonic shopping value derived by consumers is less pronounced than in more developed market economies, and to develop a taxonomy of patterns of shopping behaviour which may establish a baseline for future research in the country.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through a mall intercept survey of 355 shoppers at seven large shopping centres in five major cities in Hungary.

Findings

Hungarian consumers tend to approach shopping as work, despite the rapid development of the retail industry in the country. Four shoppers' segments are identified using cluster analysis: relaxed utilitarians, strict utilitarians, committed shoppers and browsers.

Practical implications

Given the emphasis of Hungarian consumers on product‐related shopping motives and that they make most of their purchase decisions prior to their mall visit, marketing campaigns should be focused on providing information about retailers' offers beforehand. Social and recreational appeals for attracting consumers to the mall may not work well.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the growing body of cross national research on shopping behaviour by shedding light on the shopping motives and experiences of Hungarian consumers. The consumer segments uncovered are of value to both local and international retailers.
Roles of interfirm information systems in supply chain management
Authors: Kärkkäinen Mikko , Laukkanen Sanna , Sarpola Sami , Kemppainen Katariina
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how and for what purposes companies use interfirm information systems (IS) in supply chain management (SCM). Further, the drivers for the different uses of interfirm IS are investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Two a priori constructs – the roles of interfirm IS in SCM and the drivers for interfirm IS use in SCM – are derived from the prior research. The case study approach is applied to analyze empirical data collected from 16 Finnish companies in order to assess the validity of the constructs.

Findings

The findings suggest that the proposed three categories – transaction processing, supply chain planning and collaboration, and order tracking and delivery coordination – represent well the different types of interfirm IS uses in SCM. Further, the findings suggest that the drivers behind these different categories of interfirm IS use differ.

Practical implications

The different purposes for which interfirm IS can be used in the management of supply chains are demonstrated. Further, the reasons for adopting interfirm IS for the different purposes are shown to vary and not to be as self‐evident as anticipated in the prior research.

Originality/value

The study addresses the lack of empirical research on how companies actually use IS in managing supply chain activities. It also contributes to the extant knowledge on the factors that drive companies to use IS in specific ways in their SCM efforts.
Northern Ireland Tourism: A Quality Perspective
Authors: O’Neill Martin A. , McKenna Margaret A.
Published: June 2007

Discusses the service quality matrix as one strategy in attaining and
maintaining service excellence in relation to Northern Ireland’s
hospitality record. Presents a set of guidelines based on the ideals and
concepts of total quality management as a means to establishing Northern
Ireland as a quality tourism destination to prospective travellers.
Putting people into the process at BT
Authors: Walsh Jan
Published: June 2007

Advocates that customer satisfaction must be at the centre of
business processes and not treated merely as an anaesthetized
by‐product. There is a need to redress the imbalance of commercial
imperative, on the one hand, with customers’ values on the other. Urges
the use of traditional company driven market research, customer‐driven
consultation with consumers and stakeholder networks as essential
implements in long‐term business strategy.
Numerical simulation of natural convection in a partitioned enclosure using PDQ method
Authors: Kahveci Kamil
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the effect of a heat conducting vertical partition in an enclosure on natural convection heat transfer and fluid flow using the polynomial‐based differential quadrature (PDQ) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The PDQ method with the non‐uniform Chebyshev‐Gauss‐Lobatto grid point distribution given below is used to transform the governing equations into a set of algebraic equations. After numerical discretization, the resulting algebraic equations are solved by the successive over‐relaxation iteration method.

Findings

It is found that the average Nusselt number decreases towards a constant value as the partition is distanced from the hot wall towards the middle of the enclosure. Furthermore, with decreasing thermal conductivity ratio, the average Nusselt number first increases and passes a peak point and then begins to decrease. The average heat transfer rate exhibits little dependence on the width of the partition in the range taken into consideration in this study for the thickness of the partition.

Originality/value

This study offers more knowledge on natural convection in partitioned enclosures.
Geometry effects on conjugate natural convection heat transfer in vertical eccentric annuli
Authors: El‐Shaarawi Maged A.I. , Mokheimer Esmail M.A. , Jamal Ahmad
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To explore the effect of the annulus geometrical parameters on the induced flow rate and the heat transfer under the conjugate (combined conduction and free convection) thermal boundary conditions with one cylinder heated isothermally while the other cylinder is kept at the inlet fluid temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

A finite‐difference algorithm has been developed to solve the bipolar boundary‐layer equations for the conjugate laminar free convection heat transfer in vertical eccentric annuli.

Findings

Numerical results are presented for a fluid of Prandtl number, Pr=0.7 in eccentric annuli. The geometry parameters of NR2 and E (the fluid‐annulus radius ratio and the eccentricity, respectively) have considerable effects on the results.

Practical implications

Applications of the obtained results can be of value in the heat‐exchanger industry, in cooling of underground electric cables, and in cooling small vertical electric motors and generators.

Originality/value

The paper presents results that are not available in the literature for the problem of conjugate laminar free convection in open‐ended vertical eccentric annular channels. Geometry effects having been investigated by considering fluid annuli having radii ratios NR2=0.1 and 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 and four values of the eccentricity E=0.1, 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7. Moreover, practical ranges of the solid‐fluid conductivity ratio (KR) and the wall thicknesses that are commonly available in pipe standards have been investigated. Such results are very much needed for design purposes of heat transfer equipment.
How the Post‐heroic Leader Scores
Authors: Roth Tom
Published: June 2007

Examines attitude changes occurring in companies since the mid‐1980s
through job disruptions and redundancies, and suggests leaders do not
realize that companies are not running as efficiently as they should.
Wilson Learning has studied group emphasis since 1985 and suggests that
creating a sense of collaboration (or post‐heroic leadership) is a
necessity for organizations to survive. Lists capacities required for
people to meet this challenge and concludes managers must shift away
from traditional top down hierarchical structuring.
Skill Trends in the City
Authors: Szembel Nigel
Published: June 2007

Reviews two reports which analyse employment patterns, salaries and
skills of people employed in the City. The first report, The City Labour
Market finds that there are wide differences in base salary, bonus etc.,
with individuals facing large variations in pay. The second report,
A Review of Professional and Managerial Skills in the City, reveals a
disproportionately large number of skilled and educated staff within the
City.
Managing diversity in academic organizations: a challenge to organizational culture
Authors: Barbosa Íris , Cabral‐Cardoso Carlos
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at the way higher‐education institutions are responding to the challenges of an increasingly diverse academic force and the extent to which organizational culture welcomes and values diversity, thus allowing the university to benefit from talented people with diverse backgrounds.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in a Portuguese university. Data were collected from 45 interviews with faculty members from different backgrounds and affiliations.

Findings

The organization studied is failing to promote equal opportunities policies and to manage the increasingly diverse academic workforce. Behavioural pressures to conform and parochial and inward looking attitudes appear to prevail. Values‐in‐use and artefacts seem to reflect the assimilation ideals. National origin came out as the key diversity issue. The integration of foreign academics is left to the individuals concerned and little effort is made to accommodate and to take advantage of their unique contribution.

Originality/value

The paper provides an in‐depth account of subtle discriminatory mechanisms faced by non‐native academics in a university that does not value diversity.
Interview with Celia de Anca
Authors: by Rachel Brown Interview
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an interview with Celia de Anca on corporate diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an interview with Celia de Anca exploring the background to and impact of her book Managing Diversity in the Global Organization coauthored by Antonio Vásquez.

Findings

Celia de Anca provides views and opinions about the managing diversity in organizations.

Originality/value

The paper provides an insightful interview with Celia de Anca.
High‐low context cultures and price‐ending practices
Authors: Nguyen Adam , Heeler Roger M. , Taran Zinaida
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Retail prices ending in 0, 5 (even ending), and 9 (odd ending) are common in western countries. The purpose of this paper is to explain variances in odd versus even ending practices in western versus non‐western countries, using Hall's high‐low context construct.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of web‐posted prices in ten countries is conducted.

Findings

Relative to their counterparts in low context, western cultures, consumers in high context, non‐western cultures may be less prone to the illusion of cheapness or gain created by odd endings, and more likely offended by such perceived attempts to “fool” them. Thus, odd endings are predicted to operate at a higher level of value significance to consumers, and to occur less frequently relative to even endings, in high than low, context cultures. Data support the predictions.

Research limitations/implications

Additional empirical studies are recommended to further test the proposed theory.

Practical implications

Western firms need to be cautious when replicating odd ending practices in non‐western markets. Even ending is a “safer” pricing format. Odd endings, if used, should convey cheapness or gain that is more “real”.

Originality/value

The research results indicate that the results of western‐based consumer research cannot be treated as universally applicable. The high‐low context theory supplements prior theories for price ending patterns in non‐western countries, and those based on perceptions and affect in the west. The study also demonstrates the usefulness of the web method in international pricing research.