bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolvability and the intangibles
Authors: Hanisch Christoph , Munz Gebhard
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at production and the installation of production lines, and question how to reduce investment for installation and how to organize the structure of such a line in order to use and reuse it for as many different or new types of products as possible.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at some basic technological interdependencies.

Findings

The paper finds that the know‐how, the long‐term capabilities and creativity make man a very important asset in terms of economical factory operation. Evolvable production systems may in the near future turn out to be the bridging link between what one might call “the cost‐driven operation reducing the workforce” and an answer to how factory operation could be sustainable for a society and be highly profitable at the same time.

Originality/value

Evolvable assembly systems are a technological task requiring profound theoretical research and solutions. The paper is of value in listing some requirements for evolvable systems.
Electroacoustic music: updating the library collection
Authors: Dubnjakovic Ana
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a variety of current resources associated with electroacoustic music suitable for updating academic and large public library collections.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken in the paper is to identify resources meant to provide guidance in locating appropriate resources and to identify specific resources regarding electroacoustic collections that are grouped in several categories for ease of reading.

Findings

The complexity of definition of electroacoustic music and its interdisciplinary nature has had a negative impact on availability of collection development guides for electroacoustic music. Furthermore, resource formats associated with this type of music are heavily dependent on technology and change with great frequency which makes them challenging to keep up with.

Originality/value

The paper offers practical advice about updating electroacoustic music collections.
ACLS Humanities E‐book: an examination
Authors: Berger‐Barrera Jocelyn
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to inform the reader about the collection development principles, the use of technology, the history, and usefulness of ACLS Humanities E‐book.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted is a brief history, overview, and review of ACLS Humanities E‐book.

Findings

ACLS Humanities E‐book combines a carefully selected collection of academic monographs related to the humanities with a straightforward user‐interface.

Originality/value

The paper offers information about the collection, most important, its collection development model and the considerable value and utility of ACLS Humanities E‐book for researchers and libraries.
Sensing with neutrons: an overview
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief review of sensing with neutrons.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses neutron sources, sensing techniques and a number of established and emerging applications.

Findings

The paper shows that neutron‐based sensing is used to determine a range of physical and chemical variables in the process, minerals, chemicals, security and military industries.

Originality/value

The paper provides a concise overview of the technology and uses of neutron‐based sensing.
Sensing with electromagnetic radiation: a review. Part 1: Short wavelengths
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the industrial sensing applications of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) with an emphasis on wavelengths other than visible light. The paper is in two parts. This, the first, considers radiations with shorter wavelengths than visible light, i.e. γ radiation, X‐rays and ultra‐violet (UV).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the sensing applications of short wavelength EMR through reference to the techniques employed, products and their uses.

Findings

The paper shows that γ radiation, X‐rays and UV radiation are used in a wide range of industrial sensors for the measurement of physical variables, chemical compounds and gases. The phenomena employed include absorption, backscatter, photoionisation, fluorescence and reflection. Applications are extremely varied and embrace a diversity of industries.

Originality/value

The paper provides a detailed, technical review of the sensing uses of short wavelength EMR.
Robot localisation enhanced by a distributed vision system in dynamic environments
Authors: Menegatti E. , Gatto G. , Pagello E. , Minato Takashi , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: August 2008

Purpose

Image‐based localisation has been widely investigated in mobile robotics. However, traditional image‐based localisation approaches do not work when the environment appearance changes. The purpose of this paper is to propose a new system for image‐based localisation, which enables the approach to work also in highly dynamic environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed technique is based on the use of a distributed vision system (DVS) composed of a set of cameras installed in the environment and of a camera mounted on a mobile robot. The localisation of the robot is achieved by comparing the current image grabbed by the robot with the images grabbed, at the same time, by the DVS. Finding the DVS's image, most similar to the robot's image, gives a topological localisation of the robot.

Findings

Experiments reported in the paper proved the system to be effective, even exploiting a pre‐existent DVS not designed for this application.

Originality/value

Whilst, aware that DVSs, as the one used in this work, are not diffuse nowadays, this work is significant because a novel idea is proposed for dealing with dynamic environments in the image‐based localisation approach and the idea is validated with experiments. Camera Sensor networks currently are an emerging technology and they may be introduced in several daily environments in the future.
Evaluation of protein crystallization state by sequential image classification
Authors: Kawabata Kuniaki , Saitoh Kanako , Takahashi Mutsunori , Asama Hajime , Mishima Taketoshi , Sugahara Mitsuaki , Miyano Masashi
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present classification schemes for the crystallization state of proteins utilizing image processing.

Design/methodology/approach

Two classification schemes shown here are combined sequentially.

Findings

The correct ratio of experimental result using the method presented here is approximately 70 per cent.

Originality/value

The paper is a contribution to automated evaluation crystal growth, combining two classifiers based on specific visual feature, sequentially.
A cultural feminist approach towards managing diversity in top management teams
Authors: Syed Jawad , Murray Peter A.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to challenge the customary emphasis on masculine values in top management teams (TMTs) and offer a cultural feminist approach to improving women's participation in leadership roles in organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds on the theory of diversity and “difference”, instead of “sameness”, to demonstrate the relationship between feminine values, team member diversity, and team effectiveness. The paper develops a three‐tier approach to making better use of gender diversity in TMTs: unravel masculine hegemony in the workplace; create awareness of distinct values offered by women as team members and team leaders; and progress team diversity from the customary token representation to gender inclusive team structures and routines.

Findings

The paper suggests that TMTs benefit when learning to accommodate and integrate feminine values, along with masculine values, into an inclusive work culture that enhances teams’ performing capacities.

Research limitations/implications

Token representation is only one dimension of gendered disadvantage. Several complex forms of gendered disadvantage reside at macro‐level or extra‐organisational layers of life. Therefore, tackling masculine hegemony should involve a multilevel approach that tackles gendered disadvantage in domains as wide as work, organisation, and society.

Practical implications

Through the three‐tier framework for managing diversity in TMTs, the paper offers a practical way forward, moving beyond the current functional‐structured approach towards TMTs.

Originality/value

The paper argues that conventional diversity management practices remain influenced by a hegemonic masculine approach towards increasing women's participation in employment. Furthermore, a narrow emphasis on “sameness” instead of “diversity” of women and men reinforces male hegemony, contributing to the perpetuation of low numbers of women in TMTs.
Transition in the age of anxiety: the Turkish case
Authors: Tatoglu Ekrem , Demirbag Mehmet
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the transformation experience of contemporary Turkey, and to provide an introduction to the special issue and a review of the papers in the JMD special issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper portrays changes in Turkish business and management practices in recent years.

Findings

The paper argues that given the dynamic nature of Turkish economy, change is not an option but a required path for transformation and survival. Turbulence and anxieties, sometimes inevitably, distract or at best re‐orient the speed of change and transition.

Originality/value

The paper stimulates further work by management scholars to develop new perspectives and research agenda that will advance knowledge of the business and management practices in emerging countries.
Exploring managerial values in the changing Turkish business context
Authors: Çakmakçı Ufuk M. , Karabatı Serdar
Published: August 2008

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to explore differences in managerial values in Turkey by relating them to the changing business context. Design/methodology/approach – The research delineates individual value differences between upper‐level managers and a group of MBA students who were approached through a questionnaire and in‐depth interviews. Findings – The basic findings support the view that workplace socialisation may affect individual values and practices. Research limitations/implications – The limitation of this paper is its exploratory nature based on the small sample size of research. Practical implications – In the context of internationalization and rising competition within the economic space, change should be high on the agenda of the Turkish private sector in adapting to the shifts in business environment. This should incorporate professional training as well as strategic HR projects aiming to transform the existing structures biased toward paternalism. Originality/value – The paper contributes to the existing management literature by identifying critical value dilemmas facing Turkish businesses in today's turbulent and internationalized business environment.
Internationalization of Turkish MNEs
Authors: Erdilek Asim
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the company‐specific level on the causes of Turkey's recent outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) surge. The paper analyzes the reasons as to why, how, and where Turkish multinational enterprises (MNEs) invest abroad, focusing on the differences between large enterprises and small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The case‐study approach, based on eight cases, relies on the insights from the Uppsala internationalization model as well as those from FDI theories. The case studies are based on on‐site interviews with company executives.

Findings

That paper finds that although different OFDI drivers vary in importance among the eight MNEs studied, the incremental and peripheral nature of their internationalization, mostly through brownfield FDI, fits the Uppsala model well. Although they preferred majority‐owned joint ventures with local partners initially to minimize uncertainty and start up costs, to cope with bureaucratic obstacles, and to gain access to technology, they eventually acquired full ownership of their foreign affiliates after exhausting the initial benefits from joint venturing.

Research limitations/implications

The case‐study approach limits the generalization of the findings. However, they can serve as an initial attempt to investigate the drivers behind Turkey's recent OFDI surge. Future studies based on larger number of cases chosen in a systematic way may be able to confirm and strengthen the findings and their managerial implications.

Originality/value

The paper is the first company‐specific attempt to explain the OFDI motivations and managerial decision making of Turkish MNEs by distinguishing between between large enterprises and SMEs.
Country image in the context of European Union membership: the Turkish case
Authors: Zamantili Nayir Dilek , Durmusoglu Serdar S.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the opinions of owners/managers of Turkish furniture firms on country image effects of expected improvements in Turkey's democratic, economic, and political life resulting from Turkey's likely EU membership.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey‐based empirical data are analyzed via multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The paper finds that political and economic influences of EU negotiations will improve country image, whereas democratic influences will not have a significant effect.

Research limitations/implications

The study is conducted in one industry and findings may not be generalizable. As opinions on country image are affected by discussions in the media or temporary situations between EU countries and Turkey, the study should be repeated at regular intervals. Official bodies need to make sure that reforms made in the democratic arena are well communicated to business communities. Also, business communities can promote implementation of democratic adjustment efforts by joining democratic establishments.

Originality/value

Most previous studies on country of origin (COO) effects were conducted with high risk or very low risk product groups. In this paper, a mid‐level risk product category, furniture, is examined with respect to country image.
Leadership development: making a difference in unfavourable circumstances
Authors: Clarke Martin , Bailey Catherine , Burr Joanna
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper is derived from a two‐year study that sought to provide a critical understanding of the current state of business leadership development (BLD) and to identify directions for innovative future practice. The second of two companion papers, this contribution aims to investigate the influence of unfavourable competing agendas on BLD and how human resource development (HRD) professionals can work effectively within such circumstances.

Design/methodological approach

The paper analyses three case studies of HRD managers who made significant contributions to their organisation's BLD despite unfavourable political circumstances. These individuals were selected from a population of 190 managers from the first phase of the overall study.

Findings

The cases highlight the centrality of political activity to effective BLD design and implementation that is subject to unfavourable circumstances. In particular, the individuals demonstrated the importance of relationship management, challenge and critique and of building change from the bottom up, irrespective of direct senior management support.

Practical implications

The cases shed light on the types of behaviour that may enable HRD professionals to make an effective contribution to BLD, even when there is little formal senior management support. Questions are provided to encourage personal learning and debate about the role and value of HR in the enactment of BLD.

Originality/value

The findings indicate that much best practice advice on leadership development needs to be tempered with an acknowledgement of the degree to which it is subject to competing interests and postulates that constructive political action may be a legitimate activity for HRD managers despite mainstream unitarist advice.
A critique of the evolving funding process for the care of Anglican medieval cathedrals in England
Authors: Mansfield John R.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the background issues that influence the level of central government funding of the care and maintenance of the provincial Anglican medieval cathedrals in England.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a detailed review of the evolving government policy and funding agency practice. The paper critically examines the levels of financial support provided to specific cathedrals since the introduction of the Cathedral Repairs Grant and the Funding to Cathedrals schemes.

Findings

Since 1990, central government, via English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund, has offered a comparatively modest level of financial support for the care and maintenance of provincial medieval cathedrals. Yet this funding is balanced by an increased bureaucratic process that ironically increases the cost of care. The budget for grant aid is being reduced annually, ceiling levels to grants are imposed regardless of the cost of the work and previously successful applicants are being excluded from future bidding rounds. More public funds should be available for the care programmes and the support should be more real than rhetorical.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the broader appreciation of the funding system for the care and maintenance of the cultural built heritage under an evolving financial regime based on efficiency reviews. The paper highlights the longer‐term implications of the increased bureaucratic system.
Air gaps in building construction avoiding dampness and mould
Authors: af Klintberg Tord , Johannesson Gudni , Björk Folke
Published: August 2008

Purpose

Water damage is a severe problem in modern construction, causing economic loss and health implications. The patented Air Gap Method, which is a slight modification of the common infill wall construction, provides means to build houses in a more robust way, minimizing the negative effects of water damage. This full‐scale study of the method aims to show how walls and floors may be built to create ventilation within the construction, with air gaps equipped with heating cables. The general hypothesis is that the patented Air Gap Method drains and evaporates dampness after water damage. The purpose of this study is to show how the method is built and how the method deals with water damage, such as a flooding, and with mould growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The Air Gap Method is based on a common timber‐framed construction and is completed by the provision of inlets, air gaps, slits, and outlets. The power for the convective airflow is given by an electrical heating cable. The study was carried out as a full‐scale experiment using a 24 m2 large apartment build by this method. This apartment was flooded with 120 litres of domestic wastewater and the drying period was compared when heating cables were switched on or not. Mould growth was also investigated.

Findings

The method dries out a flooded floor in nine days when two heating cables were switched on, in 13 days with one heating cable and 21 days when the heating cables were off. The method prevents all mould growth provided that the indoor RH is lower than 65 per cent.

Practical implications

The method provides means to build houses in a more robust way, minimizing the negative effects of water damage.

Originality/value

The issue of ventilated construction is rarely investigated in scientific research.
Knowledge exchange and the opportunities for Marketing Intelligence & Planning
Authors: Hughes Tim
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to put forward some ideas on how Marketing Intelligence & Planning (MIP) might further pursue its crossover mission in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a viewpoint contribution based on the author's research on academic/practitioner engagement within the marketing field.

Findings

A number of ideas are outlined under the following headings: creating an MIP community; creating mutually interesting content; demonstrating practical application; links with professional bodies; motivating academics.

Originality/value

The paper stimulates debate around how a crossover journal can become more effective in promoting academic/practitioner knowledge exchange.
Using ISO 90003 for software “design and development” in large virtual teams
Authors: Das Sidhartha R. , Yaylacicegi Ulku , Canel Cem
Published: August 2008

Purpose

ISO 90003 provides guidelines for applying ISO 9001 to software development processes. The purpose of this paper is to present how the software development process in large, virtual teams (LVTs) can be managed, so that they are in compliance with ISO 9001.

Design/methodology/approach

The firm's actions are described in a case example format that illustrates how fit between theory and practice is achieved; and forms a precursor to the derivation of appropriate research arguments.

Findings

The steps presented show the application of ISO 90003 guidelines to software development planning activities in LVTs, to meet the requirements of ISO 9000 certification.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this paper is limited to the application of Section 7.3 (Design and development) of ISO 90003:2004 to the software development process. The paper presents the discussion in a “generalized” fashion so that the steps described can be implemented by any software development company.

Practical implications

The implications for managers in this study lie in the presentation of a set of steps to manage software development processes in LVTs, so that they are in compliance with ISO 9001.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of studies on the application of process‐based approaches in virtual organizations. This paper addresses this gap in the literature by examining how software development processes in virtual organizations (specifically, LVTs) may be formally managed, so that they are in compliance with ISO 9001.
Price formation in residential property market: evidence from FGLP auction in Nigeria
Authors: Amidu Abdul‐Rasheed , Tajudeen Aluko Bioye , Bamidele Oyedele Joseph
Published: August 2008

Purpose

A significant number of published empirical studies of real estate auctions abound in real estate literature. These studies focus on the auction price formation process through the comparison of sales from different auctions to revenue from private negotiations. While these studies have made useful contributions to the literature, they are largely confined to data emanating from auctions in the UK format. Other auction formats have been virtually ignored; thus creating a gap in the literature. This study, therefore seeks to extend research in the auction price formation process through an empirical analysis of transaction prices from the perspective of another auction format: first sealed bid auction.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this study consist of a sample size of 120 residential properties sold at auction of the Federal Government Landed Properties (FGLP) in Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria. Transaction data for each of the sampled properties were compiled from Vol. 11, No. 3834 of Thisday newspaper. These include open market values (reserve prices), bid prices, numbers of bids, property specific and bidders' attributes. These were then analysed using descriptive, paired t‐test statistic and regression model.

Findings

The empirical evidence suggests that auction properties sell at an 11.33 per cent premium relative to predicted market values. Also provided, through the regression model, are variables having a significant impact on the auction prices.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical evidence of the auction price formation process in first sealed bid auction where published empirical studies are still relatively few. Overall, the results of the analysis presented suggest that auctions offer an optimal method of selling property.
The determinants of business performance of estate agency in England and Wales
Authors: Ke Qiulin , Isaac David , Dalton Peter
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the factors influencing the business performance of estate agency in England and Wales.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates the effect of housing market, company size and pricing policy on business performance in the estate agency sector in England and Wales. The analysis uses the survey data of Woolwich Cost of Moving Survey (a survey of transactions costs sponsored by the Woolwich/Barclays Bank) from 2003 to 2005 to test the hypothesis that the business performance of estate agency is affected by industry characteristics and firm factors.

Findings

The empirical analysis indicates that the business performance of estate agency is subject to market environment volatility such as market uncertainty, housing market liquidity and house price changes. The firm factors such as firm size and the level of agency fee have no explanatory power in explaining business performance. The level of agency fee is positively associated with firm size, market environment and liquidity.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the data received and is based on a research project on transaction costs designed prior to this analysis.

Originality/value

There is little other research that investigates the factors determining the business performance of estate agency, using consecutive data of three years across England and Wales. The findings are useful for practitioners and/or managers to allocate resources and adjust their business strategy to enhance business performance in the estate agency sector.
Numerical study of natural convection in a square cavity containing a cylinder using the lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Jami Mohammed , Mezrhab Ahmed , Naji Hassan
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper attempts to deal with the presentation of a numerical investigation of the laminar‐free convective heat transfer in a square enclosure containing a solid cylinder located at an arbitrary position. Effects of the cylinder position on the heat transfer and the flow structures inside the cavity are to be studied and highlighted.

Design/methodology/approach

The numerical code is based on the hybrid scheme with the lattice Boltzmann and the alternating‐directional implicit (ADI) splitting scheme. The energy equation is solved by ADI scheme and the flow field velocities have been computed using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). The bounce‐back condition combined with quadratic interpolation is used at solid boundaries.

Findings

The predicted results show that the cylinder location has a significant effect on the heat transfer. It is observed that: when the inner body does not generate heat, most of the heat transfer takes place if the body is located at the center of the enclosure. When the cylinder generates heat and is displaced from the left towards the right and from the lower part towards the upper part of the cavity, the heat transfer rate decreases on the hot wall and increases on the cold wall.

Research limitations/implications

The fluid flow (air) is assumed to be incompressible, laminar and 2D. The viscous heat dissipation is neglected in the energy equation and all physical proprieties are constant except for the density, whose variation with temperature is allowed for in the buoyancy term.

Practical implications

Natural convection in heated enclosures, housing inner bodies has received significant attention because of its interest and importance in industrial applications. Some applications are solar collectors, fire research, electronic cooling, aeronautics, chemical apparatus, building constructions, nuclear engineering, etc.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the development of the LBM. In particular, it was found that the inherent numerical instabilities of this LBE are not modified by coupling with temperature. This is a good improvement compared to what is observed in the simulations of thermal systems using the full LBE formulation where the energy conservation is taken into account.
An efficient spreading method for sheet metal parts based on outside normal
Authors: Jian‐jun Wu , Han‐ping Yang
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The paper's purpose is to provide a new spreading method for sheet metal parts, which aims to improve the standard radial spreading method.

Design/methodology/approach

A new radial spreading approach considering outside normal direction, which is based on geometric mapping method and triangle elements, is developed to resolve blank development in sheet metal forming.

Findings

Through practical applications, the effectiveness and usefulness of the approach presented are evaluated, and the development result is more reasonable, meanwhile, the obtained blank shape should be a better initial values in the application of one‐step analysis for fast deep drawing simulation.

Originality/value

This paper offers a more reasonable spreading method for sheet metal parts.
Numerical time integration for dynamic analysis using a new higher order predictor‐corrector method
Authors: Rezaiee‐Pajand M. , Alamatian J.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a simple and accurate higher order predictor‐corrector integration which can be used in dynamic analysis and to compare it with the previous works.

Design/methodology/approach

The predictor‐corrector integration is defined by combining the higher order explicit and implicit integrations in which displacement and velocity are assumed to be functions of accelerations of several previous time steps. By studying the accuracy and stability conditions, the weighted factors and acceptable time step are determined.

Findings

Simplicity and vector operations plus accuracy and stability are the main specifications of the new predictor‐corrector method. This procedure can be used in linear and nonlinear dynamic analysis.

Research limitations/implications

In the proposed integration, time step is assumed to be constant.

Practical implications

The numerical integration is the heart of a dynamic analysis. The result's accuracy is strongly influenced by the accuracy and stability of the numerical integration.

Originality/value

This paper presents simple and accurate predictor‐corrector integration based on accelerations of several previous time steps. This may be used as a routine in any dynamic analysis software to enhance accuracy and reduce computational time.
Product‐country images in the arts: a multi‐country study
Authors: d'Astous Alain , Giraud Voss Zannie , Colbert François , Carù Antonella , Caldwell Marylouise , Courvoisier François
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The country‐of‐origin literature has focused mainly on tangible products and has neglected largely intangible services and products such as the arts. The objective of this study is to examine the impact that country of origin may have on consumer perceptions of artistic and cultural products and to explore the variables that explain how consumers form their perceptions of countries as producers of cultural products.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted among adult consumers in Australia, Canada, Italy, Switzerland, and the USA that assessed participants' perceptions of 16 countries with respect to their reputation for nine cultural products.

Findings

The results indicate that product‐country images in the arts are affected by country and product familiarity as well as consumers' openness to foreign cultures and home country bias. Countries more proximate to the participants' home country were also better evaluated, especially when the proximity factor played a significant role in the consumption of cultural products.

Research limitations/implications

While almost all of the hypotheses were supported, additional research is needed to examine the cultural products of non‐Western and emerging markets as well as product‐country perceptions in these markets.

Originality/value

This study extends our understanding of country‐of‐origin effects in the context of aesthetic, intangible, and complex products that elicit both cognitive and affective responses. It demonstrates that familiarity with a country of origin has a stronger association with positive perceptions of product‐country reputation than does product familiarity, and that openness to foreign cultures, home country bias, and proximity have a positive effect on product‐country evaluations.
Service quality measurement in the Chinese corporate banking market
Authors: Guo Xin , Duff Angus , Hair Mario
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct a measurement instrument to capture service quality in the Chinese corporate banking market.

Design/methodology/approach

To create the measurement instrument, Chinese Banking Service Quality (CBSQ), constructs are utilised from the generic service quality literature and Chinese business culture. In addition, 18 financial managers were interviewed to identify how other aspects of the Chinese banking market could be included in the new instrument. CBSQ was administered to 259 corporate customers in China. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to assist data reduction, test hypothesised models and refine scales.

Findings

Factor analysis identifies that service quality in Chinese corporate banking is measured by a nested model, consisting of two higher‐order constructs (i.e. functional quality and technical quality) and four lower‐order dimensions (i.e. reliability, human capital, technology and communication).

Research limitations/implications

The data were collected from corporate customers in China, and hence the findings of this paper may not be generalisable to other contexts.

Practical implications

The presence of CBSQ is timely given the rapid development of the Chinese banking sector, allowing Chinese domestic banks and international banks to incorporate service quality issues into their strategic planning. Particularly, bank management could benefit from focusing their efforts on the four dimensions of CBSQ.

Originality/value

This research contributes to our understanding of service quality in the Chinese banking market by creating CBSQ – a model to capture the quality of service provision in corporate banking. The utility of CBSQ for academics and practitioners is discussed along with avenues for future research.
Work‐family conflict and work‐family synergy for generation X, baby boomers, and matures
Authors: Beutell Nicholas J. , Wittig‐Berman Ursula
Published: August 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to explore generational effects on work‐family conflict and synergy

Design/methodology/approach

The design is cross‐sectional and investigates large US national probability samples. Multiple regressions and ANOVAs were used in the analyses.

Findings

Generational differences in work‐family conflict and synergy were found. Mental health and job pressure were the strongest predictors of work‐family conflict for each group. Matures were significantly more satisfied than baby boomers and generation Xers.

Research limitations/implications

All measures were self‐reports collected at one point in time. Thus, common method variance may be an issue and causal inferences cannot be made. Life stage and family stage differed for the generational groups and this should be explored in subsequent research.

Practical implications

Managers and human resource professionals need to consider generational differences in work‐family program design and monitor patterns of program usage for each group. Generation X members are particularly concerned about work/life balance.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to investigate generational issues affecting work‐family conflict and synergy. The findings are particularly relevant to managers and human resource professionals.
How do virtual teams process information? A literature review and implications for management
Authors: Curşeu Petru L. , Schalk René , Wessel Inge
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to inform readers on what is known on information processing in virtual teams and to discuss the consequences of these findings for the management of virtual teams.

Design/methodology approach

Systematic review of the literature on information processing in virtual teams based on a general information processing model for teams.

Findings

An overview of the most relevant factors that influence the effectiveness of virtual teams is provided.

Research limitations/implications

The review is based on existing literature on virtual teams and it discusses future research directions opened by the conceptualization of virtual teams as information processing systems.

Practical implications

The paper identifies the factors that can improve the effectiveness of information processing in virtual teams.

Originality/value

The general information‐processing model for teams enables a systematic integration of the fragmented literature on virtual teams.
Auditors general's universe revisited
Authors: Morin Danielle
Published: August 2008

Purpose

As practised by Auditors General in governmental organizations, the value for money (VFM) audit is ultimately destined to improve the management of public affairs. This study aims to examine to what extent Auditor General of Quebec has been achieving this objective through the VFM audits conducted in the Canadian province of Quebec from 1995 to 2002. For the purposes of this research, a model was designed that measured the impact these VFM audits may have had on the management of the organizations audited and that exposed the determinants of this impact.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was sent out exclusively to auditees who are the representatives of the organizations audited: top and middle managers and department professionals (specialists in their area: health, education, etc.) having interacted with the auditors during VFM audits. A five‐category Likert‐type scale was selected for the survey. A total of 188 questionnaires were sent out and, of the questionnaires filled out by auditees, a total of 99 were considered valid, that is 53 percent response rate. Quantitative analysis was performed using SPSS software. For each of the elements measuring the impact of VFM audits on the management of organizations audited, principal components factor analysis (with VARIMAX rotation when there was more than one factor) was performed. These analyses sought to understand the correlation structure of the variables for each of the elements.

Findings

The changes made after the auditors' visits have not been radical and there have been no revolutions in the organizations audited, but the influence of auditors is perceptible for all ten of the elements measured. The will of those at the base of the organization and the intervention of parliamentarians turn out to have a decisive influence on the impact that auditors will or will not have on the management of organizations audited.

Research limitations/implications

The point of view reported is exclusively that of auditees. There can be no claim for total objectivity on their part. Moreover, it was practically impossible to corroborate their statements with other sources. Some respondents might have tended to minimize the influence that auditors might have had on them. Others could have shaped facts to their advantage.

Originality/value

Measurement of the impact of VFM audits on the management of government organizations, from auditees' point of view, has not been much examined by scholars. This research constitutes a major contribution to advance knowledge about the impact of VFM audits in a Canadian context.
Taking advantage of disaster: misrepresentation of housing shortage for political gain
Authors: Vuk Vedran
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper aims to explore the reports of housing shortages in post‐Katrina New Orleans especially for low‐income residents in the face of a returning working poor population. Despite the availability of housing vouchers by the New Orleans Housing Authority to any previous residents of New Orleans housing projects, a political uproar has claimed no homes are available and that destroying the previously failing New Orleans housing projects would amount to “forced homelessness.”

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is done by reflecting on different commentary from persons claiming the housing projects must be preserved while also exploring the failed goals of the same public institutions. Further, a brief overview of the housing situation regarding availability of homes is conducted.

Findings

The findings show that the poor of New Orleans are being misled about available housing, and there is a continuing process of decline in sovereignty of local public policy makers. Politicians benefit by elevating their public persona.

Originality/value

The paper explores the political benefactors of perpetuating falsehoods in order to make political gains.
Corporate governance rating of family firms at the Athens exchange market
Authors: Spanos Loukas J.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

Corporate governance (CG) has mainly focused on highly dispersed corporations. This paper has two objectives: to enrich the debate in this area and to contribute to the increasing body of literature by exploring the CG of the listed family firms in Greece; and to place the CG practices of Greek family firms within the international debate, especially in the framework of a small open capital market. In addition, this paper presents an attempt to quantify the compliance of family firms with international best practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consisted of the creation of a questionnaire reflecting the Greek CG code and other well‐regarded CG codes, like the OECD principles. The authors constructed a CG rating system and applied it to distinguish family from non‐family firms.

Findings

The main conclusion is that the family firms lack an efficient CG mechanism and they demonstrated poor governance compared with non‐family firms.

Practical implications

The results disclose the potential strengths and weaknesses of the existing CG framework of the family‐owned firms. The methodology applies in a small open economy and may have significant implications in other similar capital markets.

Originality/value

Methodologically, the merit of the exercise lies in its approach toward the creation of “collectively subjective” weightings, and is valuable to policymakers and academics.
Employees as customers judging quality: enhancing employee assessment
Authors: Harer John B.
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate current practices in employee satisfaction assessment to determine if quality in the production of library services and work systems are being assessed from the employees' perspective. It is grounded in the theoretical perspective that customers judge quality and that employees are internal customers, equally important to assessment efforts as are external customers. The paper argues that employees provide a unique perspective to the assessment of quality that external customers cannot provide and that quality assessment needs to be an additional form of employee assessment from that of employee satisfaction or organizational climate initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of measures in organizational climate surveys gathered from the Association of Research Libraries was performed. Each item of several organizational climate surveys was analyzed for words and phrases identified as associated with quality assessment. Conclusions were made based on this analysis.

Findings

Each of the organizational climate surveys examined included some measures of quality, though there was no consistent focus on quality. Quality issues in these surveys included sharing skills, work load issues, and alignment with library vision and mission.

Research limitations/implications

This is the first part of an ongoing research project. The next steps include content analysis of employee satisfaction instruments and a Delphi study of quality measures gleaned from this analysis.

Originality/value

The paper contends that quality assessment is different than employee satisfaction assessment, but significantly enhances employee assessment in general – providing benefits to both the library and its employees.
Green library design and evaluation: the Taipei Public Library, Taiwan
Authors: Tseng Shu‐hsien
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the planning and architectural design features, and the post‐occupancy evaluation (POE) of the Beitou Branch Library in the Taipei Public Library System. This paper also proposes possible solutions in response to the public's suggestions for improvements.

Design/methodology/approach

A library‐user survey was employed to appraise the functioning of the Beitou Branch Library by the general public. The questionnaire for this survey was divided into three parts: background information of patrons; patrons' use of the Beitou Branch Library; and patrons' opinions on the facilities of the Beitou Branch Library. The 511 valid returned patron questionnaires were numbered and processed by means of Microsoft Excel statistical analysis. Chi‐square testing, ANOVA and Pearson T‐test were then used to analyze the relevant data and statistics.

Findings

The findings from the Beitou Branch Library survey are as follows: its innovative design and unique architecture and furniture has created a trend for new design concepts in Taiwan; it increases the number of library visits; it increases the visibility of the library and changes the stereotype of the library in the public's mind; it embodies the principles of ecological education and has become a multi‐faceted learning center; it has gained the support of local residents and professional experts; it has generated corporate sponsorship of green library buildings; and the average numbers and distribution of frequency indicate that, other than “convenient parking” and “number of computers in the computer area”, patrons were generally satisfied with the library's facilities, with all other categories receiving an average rating of 3.5 or greater.

Originality/value

This paper provides details of the experience of Taipei Public Library in planning and designing a diamond class green library and may increase public libraries' concerns about the issues of environmental protection and energy conservation.
Challenges for science and society in the digital age
Authors: Koren Marian
Published: August 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a flavour of the content of the second IFLA Presidential Meeting held in Berlin, Germany in January 2008.

Design/methodology/approach

An outline description of the issues, contents and participants of this conference is presented in the paper.

Findings

The meeting followed three themes – commercialisation or public financing, how libraries are managed to provide literature for science and society, and digitalisation relating to the cultural and societal context.

Originality/value

The paper provides a brief conference report of value to library and information professionals regarding “Libraries on the agenda”.