bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiobjective metaheuristics for frequency assignment problem in mobile networks with large‐scale real‐world instances
Authors: da Silva Maximiano Marisa , Vega‐Rodríguez Miguel A. , Gómez‐Pulido Juan A. , Sánchez‐Pérez Juan M.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address a multiobjective FAP (frequency assignment problem) formulation. More precisely, two conflicting objectives – the interference cost and the separation cost – are considered to characterize FAP as an MO (multiobjective optimization) problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The contribution to this specific telecommunication problem in a real scenario follows a recent approach, for which the authors have already accomplished some preliminary results. In this paper, a much more complete analysis is performed, including two well‐known algorithms (such as the NSGA‐II and SPEA2), with new results, new comparisons and statistical studies. More concretely, in this paper five different algorithms are presented and compared. The popular multiobjective algorithms, NSGA‐II and SPEA2, are compared against the Differential Evolution with Pareto Tournaments (DEPT) algorithm, the Greedy Multiobjective Variable Neighborhood Search (GMO‐VNS) algorithm and its variant Greedy Multiobjective Skewed Variable Neighborhood Search (GMO‐SVNS). Furthermore, the authors also contribute with a new design of multiobjective metaheuristic named Multiobjective Artificial Bee Colony (MO‐ABC) that is included in the comparison; it represents a new metaheuristic that the authors have developed to address FAP. The results were analyzed using two complementary indicators: the hypervolume indicator and the coverage relation. Two large‐scale real‐world mobile networks were used to validate the performance comparison made among several multiobjective metaheuristics.

Findings

The final results show that the multiobjective proposal is very competitive, clearly surpassing the results obtained by the well‐known multiobjective algorithms (NSGA‐II and SPEA2).

Originality/value

The paper provides a comparison among several multiobjective metaheuristics to solve FAP as a real‐life telecommunication engineering problem. A new multiobjective metaheuristic is also presented. Preliminary results were enhanced with two well‐known multiobjective algorithms. To the authors' knowledge, they have never been investigated for FAP.
Multimodal method for linear liquid sloshing in a rigid tapered conical tank
Authors: Gavrilyuk Ivan , Hermann Marten , Lukovsky Ivan , Solodun Oleksandr , Timokha Alexander
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to derive linear modal equations describing the forced liquid sloshing in a rigid truncated (tapered) conical tank, as well as to show how to couple these modal equations with “global” dynamic equations of a complex mechanical system carrying this tank.

Design/methodology/approach

Derivation of the modal equations can be based on the Trefftz variational method developed by the authors in a previous paper. Describing the coupled dynamics utilizes Lukovsky' formulas for the resulting hydrodynamic force and moment due to liquid sloshing.

Findings

The so‐called Stokes‐Joukowski potentials can be found by using the Trefftz method from the authors' previous paper with the same polynomial‐type functional basis. Coupling the modal equations with the global dynamic equations becomes a relatively simple task facilitated by Lukovsky's formulas. Using the linear multimodal method can be an efficient alternative to traditional numerical and analytical tools employed for studying the coupled vibrations of a tower with a conical rigid tank on the tower top.

Practical implications

The derived modal equations are equipped by tables with the computed non‐dimensional hydrodynamic coefficients. Interested readers (engineers) can incorporate the modal equations into the global dynamic equations of a whole mechanical system without new computations of these coefficients.

Originality/value

The multimodal method can be an alternative to traditional numerical tools. Using the derived modal equations simplifies analytical studies and provides efficient calculations of the coupled dynamics of a mechanical system carrying a rigid tapered conical tank with a liquid.
Low‐complexity 2D DOA estimator for multiple coherently distributed sources
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Li Guangjun , Teng Yunlong
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a new method for the two‐dimensional direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation of multiple coherently distributed (CD) sources, which can provide lower computational complexity while sustaining the estimation performance within a tolerable level.

Design/methodology/approach

Using three parallel uniform linear arrays (ULAs), a new method for parametric estimation of multiple coherently distributed sources is proposed. The proposed method is based on the Taylor approximation to the generalized steering vectors (GSVs) of shifted ULAs, and utilizes the special array geometry. In addition, a simple parameter matching procedure is also given in this paper.

Findings

Several numerical experiments have been designed. The experiments are based on coherently distributed source model, and the noise is assumed to be zero‐mean and spatially and temporally white and Gaussian. Numerical results show that the proposed method can exhibit good estimation performance under small angular spread and be applicable to the multisource scenario with different angular distributions.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to CD sources. Furthermore, the proposed method is based on the small angular approximation to GSV. Hence, it is fitter for the case of small angular extension.

Originality/value

Without any spectrum‐peak searching, the proposed method provides lower computational cost compared to the classical spectrum‐based methods. Moreover, it does not depend on the prior knowledge about angular distribution shape and is hence robust to mismodeling.
Analysis of the saturated electromagnetic devices under DC bias condition by the decomposed harmonic balance finite element method
Authors: Zhao Xiaojun , Li Lin , Lu Junwei , Cheng Zhiguang , Lu Tiebing
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the decomposed harmonic balance finite element method (HBFEM) to decrease the memory requirement in large‐scale computation of the DC‐biasing magnetic field. Harmonic analysis of the flux density and flux distribution was carried out to investigate the DC biased problem in a laminated core model (LCM).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the DC bias test on a LCM, the decomposed HBFEM is applied to accurately calculate the DC‐biasing magnetic field. External electric circuits are coupled with the magnetic field in the harmonic domain. The reluctivity matrix is decomposed and the block Gauss‐Seidel algorithm solves each harmonic solution of magnetic field and exciting current sequentially.

Findings

The calculated exciting currents and flux density are compared with that obtained from measurement and time domain finite element analysis, respectively, which demonstrates consistency. The DC bias leads to the significant saturation of the magnetic core and serious distortion of the exciting current. The flux density varies nonlinearly with DC bias excitation.

Research limitations/implications

The harmonic balance method is only applicable in solving the steady state magnetic field. Future improvements in the method are necessary in order to manage the hysteresis effects in magnetic material.

Originality/value

The proposed method to solve the DC biased problem significantly reduces the memory requirement compared to the conventional HBFEM. The decomposed harmonic balance equations are solved efficiently by the block Gauss‐Seidel algorithm combined with the relaxation iterative scheme. An investigation on DC bias phenomena is carried out through the harmonic solution of the magnetic field. The decomposed HBFEM can also be applied to solve 3‐D DC‐biasing magnetic field and eddy current nonlinear problems in a practical power transformer.
A hydrodynamical model for holes in silicon semiconductors
Authors: Mascali Giovanni , Romano Vittorio
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper intends to present a hydrodynamical model which describes the hole motion in silicon and couples holes and electrons.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is based on the moment method and the closure of the system of moment equations is obtained by using the maximum entropy principle (hereafter MEP). The heavy, light and split‐off valence bands are considered. The first two are described by taking into account their warped shape, while for the split‐off band a parabolic approximation is used.

Findings

The model for holes is coupled with an analogous one for electrons, so obtaining a complete description of charge transport in silicon. Numerical simulations are performed both for bulk silicon and a p‐n junction.

Research limitations/implications

The model uses a linear approximation of the maximum entropy distribution in order to close the system of moment equations. Furthermore, the non‐parabolicity of the heavy and light bands is neglected. This implies an approximation on the high field results. This issue is under current investigation.

Practical implications

The paper improves the previous hydrodynamical models on holes and furnishes a complete model which couples electrons and holes. It can be useful in simulations of bipolar devices.

Originality/value

The results of the paper are new since a better approximation of the band structure is used and a description of both electron and hole behavior is present, therefore the results are of a certain relevance for the theory of charge transport in semiconductors.
Investigation of electron mobility in GaAs‐based devices using genetic algorithm
Authors: Taheri Ali , Davoodi Mansoor , Setayeshi Saeed
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to study the capability of heuristic algorithms like genetic algorithm to estimate the electron transport parameters of the Gallium Arsenide (GaAs). Also, the paper provides a simple but complete electron mobility model for the GaAs based on the genetic algorithm that can be suitable for use in simulation, optimization and design of GaAs‐based electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Design/methodology/approach

The genetic algorithm as a powerful heuristic optimization technique is used to approximate the electron transport parameters during the model development.

Findings

The capability of the model to approximate the electron transport properties of Gallium Arsenide is tested using experimental and Monte Carlo data. Results show that the genetic algorithm based model can provide a reliable estimate of the electron mobility in Gallium Arsenide for a wide range of temperatures, concentrations and electric fields. Based on the obtained results, this paper shows that the genetic algorithm can be a useful tool for the estimation of the transport parameters of semiconductors.

Originality/value

For the first time, the genetic algorithm is used to calculate the electron transport parameters in Gallium Arsenide. A complete electron mobility model for a wide range of temperatures, doping concentrations, compensation ratios and electric fields is developed.
Time domain severity factor (TDSF)
Authors: Álvarez‐Mariño Casimiro , Lopez‐Fernandez Xose M. , Jacomo Ramos Antonio J.M. , Castro Lopes Ricardo A.F. , Miguel Duarte Couto José
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to present and define a factor to assess the severity supported along transformer windings when the transformer is subjected to a transient voltage waveform due a switching operation of a vacuum circuit breaker (VCB). This factor is identified as time domain severity factor (TDSF).

Design/methodology/approach

Since each of switching waveforms depend on the electrical interaction between transformer and the VCB, it implies that each of those combinations is characterized by a TDSF. To obtain the TDSF implies to manage two different models of the transformer under consideration. Firstly, a terminal model (black box model) of the transformer is built to compute the switching waveform at transformer terminals during VCB operation. Then, a detailed model (white box model) of the transformer is used to compute the internal transient voltage distribution along transformer windings.

Findings

A practical application of a power system consisting of a real transformer connected to a VCB is performed to show the sensibility of the TDSF coefficient.

Originality/value

Previous works found in the literature already consider the evaluation of the overvoltages in transformer associated to switching transient by coefficients, such as the frequency domain severity factor (FDSF). But this factor, as a global coefficient, could not assess the severity along windings to localize dielectrically weak points. Therefore, this paper overcomes this limitation proposing an alternative coefficient identified as time domain severity factor (TDSF).
Advanced computational tools for wound core distribution transformer no‐load analysis
Authors: Kefalas Themistoklis D. , Kladas Antonios G.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to present an accurate representation of laminated wound cores with a low computational cost using 2D and 3D finite element (FE) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed an anisotropy model in order to model laminated wound cores. The anisotropy model was integrated to the 2D and 3D FE method. A comparison between 2D and 3D FE techniques was carried out. FE techniques were validated by experimental analysis.

Findings

In the case of no‐load operation of wound core transformers both 2D and 3D FE techniques yield the same results. Computed and experimental local flux density distribution and no‐load loss agree within 2 per cent to 6 per cent.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper consists in the development of an anisotropy model specifically formulated for laminated wound cores, and in the effective representation of electrical steels using a composite single‐valued function. By using the aforementioned techniques, the FE computational cost is minimised and the 3D FE analysis of wound cores is rendered practical.
Towards short‐circuit proof design of power transformers
Authors: Bakshi Amit , Kulkarni S.V.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give a comprehensive description of various safety factors that need to be determined while assessing the short‐circuit strength of transformers.

Design/methodology/approach

Factors of safety are divided into two categories: radial and axial. Some of the latest approaches in assessing the strength are elaborated.

Findings

Six major sets of calculations are identified: three each for radial and axial electromagnetic forces. Corresponding factors of safety are defined and calculated for practical transformers. These factors are related to the strength and stability aspects of windings.

Research limitations/implications

The work gives pointers for further research at appropriate places while highlighting the challenges involved in the assessment of the short‐circuit strength.

Practical implications

The presented overview of the factors of safety can be a useful guide for the practicing transformer engineers.

Originality/value

The main contribution of the reported work is in highlighting the intricacies associated with the subject of short‐circuit strength of power transformers. It can serve as a reference document for future research works in the area since the procedures are outlined for calculating the factors of safety through six case studies.
External magnetic field density of main traction transformer for EMU
Authors: Sitar Ivan , Janic Zarko , Cucic Branimir
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the external magnetic field density of the traction transformer for EMU and to find the model for its computation.

Design/methodology/approach

The magnetic flux density in the surrounding region of the traction transformer was modeled and calculated using FEM. The transformer was modeled in a way that tank, clamps and current sources were taken into account. Most frequent operating modes for the basic 50 Hz current harmonic, and most represented higher harmonic of 1,950 Hz loading current, were analyzed.

Findings

Matching calculated and measured values were obtained on the finished transformer. The developed calculation has proved to be a useful tool for the stray field calculation outside this type of transformer. Calculated values of the flux density are lower then the maximum permitted values defined by the DIN VDE 0848 standard.

Originality/value

This paper presents a study of calculation compared to measurement of magnetic field density outside an oil immersed transformer.
Macromechanical modelling of woven fabrics
Authors: Vassiliadis Savvas , Kallivretaki Argyro , Frantzeskakis Paraskevas , Provatidis Christopher
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the development of a thorough method for the macromechanical analysis of fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

The homogenization method was implemented for the generation of continuum equivalent model for the plain woven structure. Keystone of the method is the mesomechanical analysis of the textile unit cell for the evaluation of the apparent properties and the generation of an equivalent macromechanical model supporting the mechanical performance of the structure. The finite element method (FEM) using beam elements was applied for the mechanical analysis of the discrete model of the unit cell and the FEM using shell elements was applied for the analysis of the continuum macromechanical model.

Findings

The tensile, shear and bending test of the unit cell were simulated. The constitutive equations of the continuum model were formed considering equivalent performance with the discrete model.

Originality/value

The reliability of the equivalent model in tensile, shear (in‐plane) and bending (out‐of‐plane) deformation was achieved even for asymmetric woven structures. The low computational power demanded for the meso‐ and macro‐mechanical modelling and analysis is a beneficial feature of the proposed method.
3DTV as a social platform for communication and interaction
Authors: Shin Dong‐Hee
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a predictive model of attitudes toward 3DTV.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling is used to construct a predictive model of attitudes toward 3DTV. Individuals' responses to questions about attitude and intention to use 3DTV were collected and analyzed.

Findings

The model shows significant roles for social presence and flow, both of which affect attitude as well as perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment. This set of factors is a key to users' expectations of 3DTV. Given the significant role of social presence, the study attempts to conceptualize social presence in the 3DTV context.

Research limitations/implications

The findings imply that social presence may be enhanced by illusions of advanced technical manipulation, but it can be more effectively enhanced by a sense of belonging or emotional connection.

Practical implications

Specific design features and characteristics of 3DTV services can be utilized to achieve meaningful social presence.

Originality/value

The proposed model brings together extant research on 3DTV and supports eventual 3D acceptance.
The “organization” as an interdisciplinary learning zone
Authors: Saxena Arora Anshu
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The research study seeks to explore the relationship among strategic gaming, the learning organization model and approach, and transfer of learning as key success strategies for improved individual and organizational performance and sustainable competitive advantage. This research aims to identify and elaborate on the strategic integration of interdisciplinary organizational areas leading to the development of a learning organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a cross‐sectoral case study approach to learning by focusing on the newly designed Advertising‐SCM (Ad‐SCM) simulation consisting of a strategic organizational game where experiential learning in organizational practice was emphasized and, subsequently, student learning outcome assessment results were analyzed.

Findings

The Ad‐SCM simulation game project strengthened the interdisciplinary business education for the learners by preparing them to connect to the corporate world effectively through the use of strategic gaming that modeled learning organization practice and transfer of knowledge, skills, attitudes and job relevant qualities to excel in the workplace. Interdisciplinary strategic games are valuable tools for learning and knowledge management within and across organizations, and need to be further investigated.

Research limitations/implications

The research is useful for educators to try interdisciplinary, innovative projects to reinforce learning across all organizational disciplines in an inter‐organizational setting, and improve organizational performance for a sustainable competitive advantage. The research is of great value to industry professionals as it motivates critical thinking through the use of the “learning organization” as an interdisciplinary learning zone and investigates the key issues in cross‐sectoral business management areas.

Practical implications

Interdisciplinary strategic gaming enables industry involvement to build up cross‐disciplinary management exchanges between employees and provides real‐life case scenarios for interdisciplinary research projects. This research explores the possibility of transfer of learning during the individual's academic pursuits leading to the reduction in training costs and improved return on investment for organization in the future.

Originality/value

The paper utilizes an innovative research stream highlighting the relationship among the use of strategic gaming, becoming a learning organization and transfer of learning for effective learning and knowledge management.
What tensions obstruct an alignment between project and environmental management practices?
Authors: Gluch Pernilla , Räisänen Christine
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Using an activity theory lens, this paper aims to examine the interrelationships between project practice and environmental management. It also aims to focus on tensions that occur between human agents and material objects within a motive‐directed, historically‐situated activity system, namely that of managing environmental issues in projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Case studies of two large infrastructure projects were conducted 2003‐2004 and 2008. The studies comprised on‐site observations, text analyses, 20 semi‐structured interviews and one group interview. Time was spent on the construction site to become familiarized with the context and the practices of the project community. A total of 15 weekly environmental site inspections were monitored and photo‐documented.

Findings

The findings show how new and emergent environmental management practices and routines were inherently contradictory to the situated and established culture within the projects. In fact project practices seemed to amplify the contradictions between environmental management and project management rather than mitigating them. As a result project members and organization members strove toward different goals and foci. It is argued that management needs to create arenas where members from the two units can align practices and merge routines.

Practical implications

Aligning the permanent structures of the organization with the temporary organizing of practices and operational activities in projects is a challenge for the construction industry. A prevalent lack of fit between the organization and its projects causes contradictions which negatively affect the way in which long‐term environmental strategies and goals are understood and implemented in the project settings.

Originality/value

The system theoretical lens adopted in this study enables a holistic interpretation of complex and dynamic activities and the linking of the micro, the individual, to the macro, the organizational structure. By indicating some inherent and emergent contradictions between project practice and corporate environmental management, this paper contributes to an emergent field of research that focuses on social practice in construction.
“Outing” the supplier: implications for manufacturers and retailers
Authors: Olson Erik L.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine empirically the brand impact of consumer knowledge regarding a common supplier and shared product specifications between manufacturer and private label brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses three fast‐moving consumer goods in an experimental setting.

Findings

The study finds that knowledge about common sourcing and shared specification decreases perceptual gaps between private labels and manufacturer brands and improves attitudes towards the retailer.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses a student sample, although all product categories and brands tested are popular with this demographic, and they are a key target market for the tested industries.

Practical implications

Manufacturer brands that supply private labels need to make sure that this information does not reach consumers and/or ensure their own brand version remains superior to the private label. Retailers that use well‐known manufacturer brands as suppliers of their high‐quality private labels might wish to share this information with customers as a means of improving attitudes towards the private label and retailer brands.

Originality/value

This paper builds on earlier platform sharing research and shows the dangers and opportunities of sharing product specification across brands with differing reputations and prices.
The influence of perceived risk on purchase intent – the case of premium grocery private label brands in South Africa
Authors: Beneke Justin , Greene Anne , Lok Inge , Mallett Kate
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the perceived risks that consumers associate with premium grocery private label brands in South Africa, and to understand which of these risks significantly affect their purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐administered survey consisting of 325 respondents was utilised. Item total reliability and confirmatory factor analysis were used to test the reliability and validity of the constructs. Furthermore, path modelling in the form of partial least squares analysis was employed to analyse the relationship between consumers' perceived risks and their purchase intention.

Findings

This study revealed that functional and time risk both have a significant negative influence on consumers' purchase intention of premium grocery private label brands (at the 5 per cent significance level), while financial, physical, psychological and social risks do not significantly influence their purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited in that respondents are consumers of a specific geographic region and demographic grouping. Findings may therefore not be generalisable, particularly with respect to developed markets.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies investigating consumers' perceived risks of premium grocery private label brands sold within emerging markets. As retailers continue to grow profits through the deployment of such brands, this study may provide direction on how best to entice consumers to trial and adopt these brands in a largely commodity‐driven environment.
Revisiting perceptual fit in co‐branding applications
Authors: Thompson Kenneth , Strutton David
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This study seeks to explore the value of using brand alliances, or co‐branding strategies, to influence consumer perceptions of new brand extensions under circumstances where the firm (parent brand) introduces new products that will be targeted to product categories within which the parent brand has a low initial degree of perceptual fit.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a four‐stage questionnaire administered to 308 subjects. Hypotheses were explored through a four‐level single factor between subjects experimental design.

Findings

Analyses suggest that by partnering with brands possessing higher perceived degrees of fit in the extension category (i.e. co‐brand), parent firms' brands can achieve more favorable positions for their extensions than could be realized if firms acted independently. Explained variance in perceptions of the extension increased substantially when perceptions of co‐ and parent‐brand fit were considered. Fit between the co‐brand and the new extension product apparently should be the driving factor in selecting best partnering brands for alliances. Fit between parent and partner brands may take a back seat when forming alliances.

Originality/value

Current co‐branding research typically addresses the ability of brand alliances to improve perceptions of new products bearing the names of both co‐joined brands. “Perceptual fit” and brand attitudes are major constructs thought to influence the ability of brand alliances to achieve this goal. Specifically, in co‐branding applications, perceptual fit is usually conceptualized as the fit between co‐joined brands themselves, rather than fit between each co‐joined brand and the proposed new product for which both has been combined to launch. The paper's original argument is that when one brand (parent or host brand) seeks to co‐brand for purposes of improving its ability to penetrate an untested new product category, fit should be treated from a more traditional brand extension perspective. This argument is supported.
The role of brand image congruity in Chinese consumers' brand preference
Authors: Hu Jing , Liu Xin , Wang Sijun , Yang Zhilin
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This study aims to examine the role of functional and symbolic image congruity in Chinese consumers' brand preferences in the auto market, and the role of brand familiarity in moderating the relationship between brand image congruity and consumers' preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

A one‐on‐one survey was administered to 1,440 consumers by market research specialists on two popular auto brands in China.

Findings

While confirming existing findings concerning functional image congruity, the results revealed that symbolic image congruity had a negative impact on Chinese consumers' brand preference when a brand's perceived symbolic image is higher than consumers' ideal expectations (i.e. upward incongruity), and brand familiarity does not moderate the role of symbolic image congruity in Chinese consumers' brand preference.

Originality/value

The paper's findings could help managers to improve their brand management and enhance consumer satisfaction.
Transforming the nature and scope of new product development
Authors: Pitta Dennis , Pitta Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Over the last several decades, product development efforts have seen unacceptably high new product failure rates. One important factor is the presence of competitors who can interfere with marketing strategy and force changes that sap resources and reduce success. As industries try to improve their success, line extensions, i.e. developing products similar but different to successful products, have become more common. Simultaneously, industries have reacted by refining the new product development (NPD) process to make it more reliable and accurate. The refined development techniques are so helpful in refining product benefits with which firms are familiar that they reinforce the pressure to extend the line. The result is overcrowded markets where destructive competition destroys profitability. A “blue ocean” strategy promises to change the destructive cycle of market crowding. Originally the framework focused on overall market strategy. However, it has a direct application to NPD. Revising the NPD process to incorporate a blue ocean viewpoint before the idea generation stage may reduce the failure rate and create breakthrough products that are not easily emulated. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the NPD literature as well as work implementing a blue ocean strategy. It delineates the tools developed for applying blue ocean concepts to strategy. The paper then applies a blue ocean approach to the NPD process with the objective of developing new products and services that are unhindered by competitive offerings. Implementing a blue ocean strategy involves four main actions and may be focused on six targets. The paper integrates the elements into a strategic opportunity product development matrix which may help practitioners. Moreover, it identifies at which stage of the new product development process blue ocean concepts should be introduced.

Findings

The paper reveals that there are no unvarnished panaceas in product development. Applying a blue ocean strategy to avoid competition early in the product life cycle promises to reduce dangerous competition to allow the product to succeed. However, the gains will probably not extend indefinitely. It requires constant improvement and application of the concepts to gain a measure of sustainability. If firms are successful early, they may be able to defend gains in some areas to retain profitability, while seeking new blue oceans.

Practical implications

Blue ocean applied to marketing strategy has seen large gains in success. Integrating efforts to find uncluttered market space holds the promise of increased success. It will also refine the NPD process.

Originality/value

Blue ocean strategy has not been applied to the new product development process in the literature. The paper integrates the concepts of the strategy with the elements of product development. The result is a new approach toward success products and product introductions.
Consumers' utilization of reference prices: the moderating role of involvement
Authors: Chandrashekaran Rajesh
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate whether involved consumers utilize the same set of reference prices to evaluate an offer as compared to those who are less involved. Additionally, this study aims to investigate whether the processes employed in the two groups are different.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 200 students were enrolled to participate in a realistic shopping experience over a two‐week period. In the course of the study, subjects were asked to provide information on their reference prices. They were also asked to evaluate an advertised offer for a pair of jeans. The data were analyzed using a structural equations methodology.

Findings

Under high involvement, consumers utilize perceived normal price, an external market‐based reference price, to adjust their internal standards, which in turn is used to evaluate retail price. In contrast, low‐involvement consumers do not use their internal standards. Rather, they evaluate retail prices directly against external market‐based references.

Originality/value

Despite decades of research on the role of reference prices, the moderating role of involvement on reference price utilization has not been researched adequately. The findings reported here add to existing knowledge in the field and shed additional light on the process by which consumers evaluate posted prices. The findings also emphasize the need to segment the market on the basis of reference price utilization and to design appropriate communication strategies for each.
An analysis of Fiji's monetary policy transmission
Authors: Narayan Paresh Kumar , Narayan Seema , Mishra Sagarika , Smyth Russell
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the monetary policy transmission mechanism for the Fiji Islands using a structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model for the period 1975 to 2005.

Design/methodology/approach

The SVAR model investigates how a monetary policy shock – defined as a temporary and exogenous rise in the short‐term interest rate – affects real and nominal macro variables; namely real output, prices, exchange rates, and money supply.

Findings

The results suggest that a monetary policy shock statistically significantly reduces output initially, but then output is able to recover to its pre‐shock level. A monetary policy shock generates inflationary pressure, leads to an appreciation of the Fijian currency and reduces the demand for money. The paper also analysed the impact of a nominal effective exchange rate (NEER) shock (an appreciation) on real output and found that it leads to a statistically significant negative effect on real output.

Practical implications

The findings of this study should be of direct relevance to the research and policy work undertaken at the Reserve Bank of Fiji.

Originality/value

For a small economy, such as Fiji, where monetary policy is key to sustainable macroeconomic management, this is the first paper that undertakes a dynamic analysis of monetary policy transmission. The paper uses time series data over three decades and builds a structural VAR model, rooted in theory. This paper will be of direct relevance to the Reserve Bank of Fiji. The approach and model proposed will also be useful for applied monetary policy researchers in other developing countries where inflation rate targeting is a key element of the monetary policy setting.
Michael Porter answers managers' FAQs
Authors: Magretta Joan
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an interview with Professor Michael Porter of Harvard, the noted academic and consultant whose concepts are central to the practice of strategic management, and the answers to questions he is often asked by practitioners who solicit his advice.

Design/methodology/approach

For her new book, Understanding Michael Porter: The Essential Guide to Competition and Strategy (2011), award‐winning author Joan Magretta edited this dialog with him which has been adapted for Strategy & Leadership.

Findings

Professor Porter delivers warnings on the most common strategy mistakes. When it comes to dealing with disruptive technology, he cautions managers to be sure they have rigorously identified the underlying source of the disruption. On the relentless pressure to find growth, he offers ways to approach it without damaging strategy and profitability. Futhermore he offers advice on managing the planning process itself.

Practical implications

Porter's advice on successful strategic planning: leaders need to bring together the whole team responsible for a particular business, and they need to do the plan together to think about the industry, the competitors, the opportunities, the value chain, and then ultimately make some choices about positioning and direction, and finally, develop the implications for action.

Originality/value

Porter revisits many of his core strategic ideas and gives managers advice on how to apply them to manage effectively in the current dynamic environment.
Better growth decisions: early mover, fast follower or late follower?
Authors: Wunker Stephen
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The article seeks to explain how companies seeking to fuel growth by entering new markets should analyze when it is wise to be an early mover, fast follower or late follower. Each option requires a different competitive strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper observes how three companies used early mover advantage to cement leadership in certain markets. It then suggests what approaches and industry circumstances allow fast followers and late followers in other settings to triumph.

Findings

The paper reveals that to chart potential strategies, managers should determine where their enterprise fits among three general types of business models: Solution shops like niche scientific instrument makers and customized software application developers create specially made offerings. They often dominate at the early stage of an industry. Value‐chain business models organize companies like automakers into systems that promote efficiency, consistency, market power, and access to sales channels. Facilitated‐network businesses like Facebook reap their competitive advantage from the size of their network.

Practical implications

Early movers win only when a company can: preserve an early market lead stemming from barriers that later entrants will face; build resources and competencies that larger firms eventually could imitate but which they will prefer to acquire; avoid becoming locked into inappropriate technologies or business models before the market is deeply understood; and avoid incurring large upfront costs.

Originality/value

Once a company defines what new business it wants to be in, it can use this paper to help identify the advantages and drawbacks associated with entering the industry at different times.
Predicting post‐meeting work activity in software development projects
Authors: Crawford Jeff , Leonard Lori N.K.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This study seeks to determine factors that encourage post‐meeting work activity in a software development group by assessing attendee diversity (functional, staffing and tenure), meeting size, and meeting history.

Design/methodology/approach

One year's worth of meeting data from a software development group in a US‐based financial services company were collected and analyzed. A binary logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine the impact of diversity, meeting size, and meeting history on the likelihood of post‐meeting work activity.

Findings

Tenure diversity and meeting history for each meeting event significantly contribute to the likelihood of post‐meeting work activity.

Research limitations/implications

A lack of variance in the data does not allow for the examination of staffing diversity. Further, generalizability of findings is limited since data come entirely from one organization. Findings suggest that meeting characteristics, specifically tenure diversity and meeting history, can improve the likelihood of post‐meeting work activity occurring.

Practical implications

Findings illustrate that management can leverage tenure diversity and meeting history within a software development group to encourage post‐meeting work activity.

Originality/value

All organizations employ meetings, and research that clarifies how to extract maximum value from meeting events is critical. This study provides a first step in uncovering specific meeting characteristics which are most likely to impact post‐meeting work activity.
Entrepreneurial leadership and familiness as resources for strategic entrepreneurship
Authors: Kansikas Juha , Laakkonen Anne , Sarpo Ville , Kontinen Tanja
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate how familiness and entrepreneurial leadership are related to each other in family firms. Familiness and entrepreneurial leadership are viewed as resources for strategic entrepreneurship. The aim of the paper is to shed light on familiness in three family firms and contribute to the field's growing body of work.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a case study method. The interviewees were interviewed by theme questions and secondary information was gathered to strengthen the empirical section. Qualitative interpretation of empirical data was used.

Findings

The findings demonstrate the variety of familiness and entrepreneurial leadership within family firms. The degree of familiness varies between firms and the nature of entrepreneurial leadership also differs. The findings suggest that familiness is related to entrepreneurial leadership. It is a resource for strategic entrepreneurship in family firms.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the study is the case study method. The paper is based on qualitative and interpretive approach. The paper endeavours to understand familiness related to entrepreneurial leadership rather than generalise the results statistically.

Practical implications

The paper offers a perspective for business schools in teaching leadership for family firms. Education needs to be tailored to meet the relevant needs. Benchmarking from this case study offers one pathway for this.

Originality/value

The study contributes to research on structural, cognitive, and relational familiness. The paper shows that informal relations and flexibility are typical for entrepreneurial leadership in family firms.
Strategic innovation and new product development in family firms
Authors: Cassia Lucio , De Massis Alfredo , Pizzurno Emanuele
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the presence of the family variable within a business enterprise and the managerial factors affecting the success of new product development (NPD). This can be structured into three research questions: What is the relationship between the presence of the family variable within a business enterprise and the managerial factors affecting the success of NPD activities? How the managerial factors affecting the NPD process are faced in family firms? Which are the main differences (e.g. strengths and/or weaknesses) in dealing with the managerial factors affecting the NPD process between family and non‐family firms?

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a grounded‐theory and case‐study approach to investigate the relationship between the presence of the family variable within a business enterprise and the managerial factors affecting the success of NPD. The starting point is an in‐depth literature review on the managerial factors differentiating family from non‐family firms, and the managerial factors affecting NPD success. Then, a multiple case‐study on five Italian family firms and five Italian non‐family enterprises is conducted. The case‐studies lead to the development of an empirically grounded theoretical framework that outlines how the distinctive characteristics of family businesses are related to the managerial factors affecting NPD success.

Findings

Family firms clearly emerge as more long‐term oriented than non‐family enterprises. The long‐term orientation of family businesses vs non‐family companies seems to play a pivotal role in originating NPD projects with long‐term thrust. If a company is long‐term oriented it is reasonable to expect that it will put its long‐term vision in NPD programs, thus reaching a NPD long‐term thrust.

Research limitations/ implications

The study advances research on strategic innovation and NPD in family vs non‐family firms. It develops new theory at the important intersection of family business and innovation/NPD research, filling a gap in the literature and providing justification and guidance for the design of more comprehensive studies. Future research could investigate and test the theoretical framework on a wider empirical base, using either qualitative or quantitative methods.

Originality/ value

The paper addresses the failure of innovation management research to recognize, embrace, and deliberately incorporate family firms. It therefore fills a gap in the literature and extends prior research by introducing specific propositions that are supported by the case data and originally integrating them in the general research stream on NPD and family‐firm characteristics. The originality of the study lies also in the fact that it appears to be the first comparative analysis on this specific topic involving both family and non‐family enterprises.