bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the equivalence of finite difference and edge element formulations in magnetic field analysis using vector potential
Authors: Demenko Andrzej , Sykulski Jan
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– Numerical three-dimensional formulations using vector potential A have been examined for magnetic fields, with emphasis on the finite difference (FDM) and edge element (EEM) methods, with the view to establish common features. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– It has been shown that for hexahedral elements the FDM equations may be presented in the form similar to the EEM equations, providing the products of the nodal potentials and distances between the nodes are used as unknowns in FDM, instead of the usual nodal potentials.

Findings

– The analogy between the FDM and the EEM approach has been established.

Originality/value

– It has been demonstrated, following from this and previous publications, that analogy exists between all fundamental methods of field solutions relying on space discretisation. This is helpful in terms of classification of the methods and aids the understanding of physical processes involved.
Examination of eddy current in laminated core without insulation
Authors: Takahashi Norio , Akagi Akira , Nakano Masanori , Doi Yuhito , Miyagi Daisuke
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– In the laminated core of transformer, motor, etc. each electrical steel sheet is usually insulated in order to reduce the eddy current loss. Raw steel sheets without insulation are sometimes used in a small core of electrical machines and electronic equipments, because the cost of iron core can be reduced if cheap steel sheets without insulation are used in the core. The purpose of the paper is to show how the contact resistance between sheets of laminated core affects the interlaminar eddy current and to show the criterion for judgment of the necessity of insulation.

Design/methodology/approach

– The eddy current losses of core made of SPCC (cold rolled steel sheets) of different widths with and without insulation under various conditions are analyzed by using the finite element method (FEM) considering the contact resistance. The equivalent circuit for such a laminated core without insulation is shown. The experimental investigation is also carried out.

Findings

– A criterion for the judgment of insulation is examined. It is shown that the increase of eddy current is affected by the ratio (this corresponds to the criterion) of the resistance of steel and the contact resistance.

Originality/value

– The paper clarifies a criterion for the necessity of insulation between sheets of laminated core. It is shown that a similar tendency to the measured value of eddy current loss can be obtained by utilizing the modeling method of laminated core.
A quantum-inspired evolutionary algorithm for global optimizations of inverse problems
Authors: Yang Wenjia , Zhou Haijuan , Li Yuling
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report the investigations on the potential of a new evolutionary algorithm based on probabilistic models – the quantum-inspired evolutionary algorithm (QEA) in solving inverse problems.

Design/methodology/approach

– An improved QEA.

Findings

– The proposed algorithm is an efficient and robust global optimizer for solving inverse problems.

Originality/value

– To enhance the convergence speed without compromising the diversity performances of the populations, a new definition of global information sharing is introduced and implemented. To guarantee the balance between exploration and exploitation searches, a different migration strategy and formula, as well as a novel formulation for adaptively updating the rotation angle, are developed.
A new electric dipole model for lightning-aircraft electrodynamics
Authors: Thirukumaran Sanmugasundaram , Ratnamahilan Polycarp Hoole Paul , Ramiah Harikrishnan , Kanesan Jeevan , Pirapaharan Kandasamy , Ratnajeevan Herbert Hoole Samuel
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– As commercial and military aircraft continue to be subject to direct lightning flashes, there is a great need to characterize correctly the electrical currents and electric potential fluctuations on an aircraft to determine alternative design approaches to minimizing the severity of the lightning-aircraft dynamics. Moreover, with the increased severity of thunderstorms due to global warming, the need arises even more to predict and quantify electrical characteristics of the lightning-aircraft electrodynamics, which is normally not measurable, using a reliable electric model of the aircraft. Such a model is advanced here. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The case considered in this paper is that of an aircraft directly attached to an earth flash lightning channel. The paper develops a new approach to modelling the aircraft using electric dipoles. The model has the power to represent sharp edges such as wings, tail ends and radome for any aircraft with different dimensions by using a number of different sized dipoles. The distributed transmission line model (TLM) of the lightning return stroke incorporating the distributed aircraft model is used to determine aircraft electrical elements and finally the electric current induced on the aircraft body due to lightning's interaction with the aircraft. The model is validated by the waveform method and experimental results.

Findings

– The dipole model proposed is a very powerful tool for minute representation of the different shapes of aircraft frame and to determine the best geometrical shape and fuselage material to reduce electric stress. This charge simulation method costs less computer storage and faster computing time.

Originality/value

– The paper for the first time presents a computer-based simulation tool that allows scientists and engineers to study the dynamics of voltage and current along the aircraft surface when the aircraft is attached to a cloud to ground lightning channel.
Disaster management and climate change adaptation: a remote island perspective
Authors: Johnston Ingrid
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a perspective on disaster management and climate change adaptation often left out of the literature – that of a remote outer island in Fiji.

Design/methodology/approach

– Qualitative fieldwork was conducted on a small, remote island in the north of Fiji, during 2012. Interviews with community members on this island looked at their experiences and perceptions of disaster response and aid, and their expectations for the future. The perspectives of government and aid organisations involved in disaster response were compared with the remote community views.

Findings

– There is a prevalent view in Fiji of communities as having very high expectations of disaster relief aid, and being dependent on it. However, on a remote island where the community counts the wait for help in weeks rather than days, such expectations and dependence must be viewed in a different light. There is much to be learned from the resilience and self-help these communities have no choice but to exhibit.

Originality/value

– This paper helps to fill a gap in the disaster and climate change adaptation literature, by providing some insight into the experiences and perceptions of a remote outer island community, within the remote small island developing state of Fiji.
Construction in Barbados: keeping natural hazards in mind?
Authors: Chmutina Ksenia , Bosher Lee
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– Employing a case study of Barbados, the purpose of this paper is to highlight key stakeholders involved in the construction sector, discusses the roles of construction stakeholders in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and the key stages of the construction process where proactive DRR inputs could be made, The following objectives are addressed: to describe the main natural hazards in Barbados; to reveal key stakeholders involved in the decision making during the design, construction and operation process (DCOP) and DRR process; to discuss the roles of construction stakeholders in DRR and the key stages of the DCOP where proactive DRR inputs could be made; to emphasise the main barriers to the implementation of DRR in the Barbados’ construction sector.

Design/methodology/approach

– A qualitative case study methodology, that includes semi-structured interviews with construction stakeholders in Barbados, a critical review of relevant literature and media coverage of natural hazards, and construction site visits.

Findings

– The key construction stakeholders that should be responsible for DRR integration in construction process are identified. The main barriers to the implementation of DRR in the Barbados’ construction sector are also discussed; these include the absence of an enforced building code and complacency towards natural hazards from the general population as well as construction stakeholders.

Originality/value

– Whilst some attempts have been made in mainstreaming DRR into construction projects in Barbados, many of the measures are not effectively implemented due to various constraints. In addition, little research has been done on the state of the construction sector and its use of DRR in the Caribbean. This paper aims to fill this research gap.
Mentors, tormentors, and no mentors: mentoring scientists
Authors: Gail Lunsford Laura
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– A psychosocial, developmental perspective was used to examine the mentoring experiences of scientists. Little is known about the timing of when mentors first appear, the quality of these relationships, the specific mentoring support behaviors, or how scientists typically learn to mentor. The paper aims to discuss the above issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author conducted 23, semi-structured interviews with Australian scientists. Questions focussed on mentor-like support scientists received and provided. Interviews were analyzed and themes were coded using Dedoose software.

Findings

– Scientists who had mentors as undergraduates were more likely to report long-lasting relationships with their mentors and more positive interactions with their protégés. Scientists reported the following career mentoring behaviors: modeling how to do science, sponsorship, collaboration, and practical supervision. Important psychosocial mentoring behaviors were being approachable, building confidence and providing encouragement. Almost half of the scientists never had a mentor. Most (n=14) scientists learned to mentor by emulating their mentors. Findings highlight the prevalence of dysfunctional behaviors, even in supportive relationships.

Practical implications

– The findings suggest that graduate program managers might consider investing resources to improve mentoring experiences of doctoral students as this is a critical period for their professional development. Further, activities involving collaboration deserve emphasis in mentoring relationships.

Originality/value

– The study identified a “window” when mentoring support is important for scientists; highlighted specific behaviors that support career development in science; and clarified how some scientists learn to mentor others. Results add to the literature on dysfunctional mentoring relationships.
Low-inference transcripts in peer coaching: a promising tool for school improvement
Authors: L. Rivera-McCutchen Rosa , Scharff Panero Nell
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine highly detailed “low-inference” transcripts (LITs) of peer coaching conversations, drawn from two public US high schools located in New York City, to explore the kinds of interactions that led peers to be more reflective about their instructional practice.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using the constant-comparative method of analysis, highly detailed LITs of peer coaching conversations were analyzed to identify instances where peers had what the researchers identified as an “Aha!” moment, where the peer's prior belief or opinion about their instruction and/or planning shifted. Subsequent re-coding identified specific strategies that caused the shift.

Findings

– Three kinds of interactions were identified as leading to an “Aha!,” all of which involved a thoughtful and strategic use of the LITs during the coaching conversation. Conversely, findings suggested that passive use of the transcripts was less successful.

Research limitations/implications

– Future research should explore the nature and staying power of the shifts in peer thinking, and the extent to which these shifts lead to instructional changes and improved student performance.

Practical implications

–LITs are a promising tool for instructional coaching. The evidence suggests when in the hands of a skilled coach the transcripts can shift teachers’ thinking in ways that are likely to improve instructional practice and thus student outcomes.

Originality/value

– This study highlights the value of pairing strategic and thoughtful peer coaching with highly detailed LITs, and identifies specific kinds of interactions that lead to shifts in thinking about instruction.
Mentors as educational leaders and change agents
Authors: Thornton Kate
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the educational leadership capacity of mentors working with new teachers and to identify factors that support and hinder the development of this leadership capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author conducted a qualitative case study of mentors with connections to the New Teacher Center in California. Data were collected through an online survey of mentors, focus group interviews with mentors, and interviews with programme leaders.

Findings

– Mentors in the study view themselves as educational leaders and were able to identify enablers and barriers to the development of their leadership capacity. Enablers include: their selection and experience as mentors, mentor preparation and ongoing professional support, and the support and encouragement of skilled programme leaders and of some principals and districts. The main barrier to mentors having a positive impact is the culture of the schools and districts in which they work.

Research limitations/implications

– Findings from this small-scale study of mentors with connections to the NTC cannot be transferred to other contexts, however, the factors supporting and hindering the development of educational leadership capacity may be of interest and relevance to other mentoring programmes.

Originality/value

– There is a lack of empirical research that considers the benefits of mentoring for the mentors and in particular the educational leadership capacity that mentors develop in their roles.
Coaching from the coaches’ perspective: a process-oriented focus
Authors: Celoria Davide , Hemphill David
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the practice of new principal coaching in schools from the coaches’ perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

– Six coaches of new principals were interviewed over a one-year period. Through the use of a qualitative, constant-comparative approach, the participants’ voices were used to discover their views. Data analysis employed emergent coding (Creswell, 2008; Denzin, 2005; Glaser and Strauss, 1998; Spradley, 1979). The study took place in the San Francisco Bay Area, a linguistically and ethnically diverse area, in the state of California, USA.

Findings

– Thematic analysis of interview data from principal coaches revealed a process-oriented focus within principal coaching as a primary finding. Process-oriented coaching, rather than specific, skill-focussed content, was the main mechanism coaches used to support new principals.

Research limitations/implications

– Findings are limited to the sample of principal coaches used for this analysis, although there are potential applications to similar school settings in other locations. Researchers are encouraged to examine new principal coaching in other contexts.

Practical implications

– The results of this inquiry point to the importance of process skills in new principal coaching, suggest the need for new approaches in principal mentoring programs, and call for further research on specific process tools in coaching to promote reflection and inquiry.

Originality/value

– The paper identifies process-oriented coaching as a valuable support mechanism for new principals, particularly during their first year in the role.
Exploring the impact of cultural values on project performance
Authors: Chipulu Maxwell , Ojiako Udechukwu , Gardiner Paul , Williams Terry , Mota Caroline , Maguire Stuart , Shou Yongyi , Stamati Teta , Marshall Alasdair
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to explore the impact of cultural values on the importance individuals assign to project success/failure factors (PSFFs).

Design/methodology/approach

– Themes emerging from 40 interviews of project practitioners based in Brazil, China, Greece, Nigeria, Thailand, the UAE, the UK and the USA are integrated with literature evidence to design a survey instrument. One thousand three hundred and thirteen practitioner survey responses from the eight countries are analysed using multi-group, structural equation modelling.

Findings

– Ten project success/failure indicators (PSFIs) are found to reduce to two main PSFFs: project control and extra-organisational goals and project team management/development and intra-organisational goals. It is found that the levels of importance individuals assign to both factors are dependent, not only on age and gender, but also cultural values measured as constructs based on Hofstede's individualism, masculinity, power distance and uncertainty avoidance dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

– The snowballing method used to gather survey data and analysis of relationships at individual level reduces generalisability.

Practical implications

– The results reveal insights on how best to match the cultural values of project participants to project characteristics. They also increase knowledge on the likely perceptual differences among culturally diverse individuals within projects.

Originality/value

– This research contributes to the literature on culture in project environments by defining a factor structure of multiple-dependent PSFIs and increases insight on how specific cultural values may impact on the perception of the so-defined PSFFs.
Influence factors and process stages of knowledge transfer between NPD teams
Authors: Germán Frank Alejandro , Luis Duarte Ribeiro José
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to present a model that maps the relationship between factors and process stages of the knowledge transfer (KT) between new product development (NPD) teams.

Design/methodology/approach

– The model was constructed through a quantitative evaluation with scholars and practitioners of the NPD field. To evaluate the model and its usefulness, a practical application was carried out in two large Brazilian companies.

Findings

– A relationship model between 16 main influence factors and 11 stages of the KT process was obtained. It could be seen through the practical applications that the model helps companies to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities in the KT between NPD teams.

Research limitations/implications

– Prior studies had been concerned with the analysis of KT factors, but considering KT as an isolated act. So, this work has advanced in the deployment of the KT stages and the relationship of those with different influence factors.

Practical implications

– This paper brings an important practical contribution, once several academic works have been concerned with to demonstrate relationships among factors, but few have shown how these results could help to solve practical issues observed in companies.

Originality/value

– Results presented in this paper enable the extension of comprehension about the KT phenomena in the NPD process. Furthermore, this paper shows how the proposed model can be used as a decision tool to guide a diagnosis and detect improvement opportunities in KT between NPD teams.
An integrated system based on fuzzy genetic algorithm and neural networks for stock price forecasting
Authors: Mousazadeh Abbassi Noraddin , Ali Aghaei Mohammad , Moradzadeh Fard Mahdi
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this research is to predict the total stock market index of the Tehran Stock Exchange, using the compound method of fuzzy genetics and neural network, in order for the active participants of the finance market as well as macro decision makers to be able to predict the market trend.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, the prediction was done by neural network, then the output weight of optimum neural network was taken as standard to repeat this prediction using the genetic algorithm, and then the extracted pattern from the neural network was stated through discernible rules using fuzzy theory.

Findings

– The main attention of this paper is investors and traders to achieve a method for predicting the stock market. Concerning the results of previous research, which confirms the relative superiority of non-linear models in price index prediction, an appropriate model has been offered in this research by compounding the non-linear method such as fuzzy genetics and neural network. The results indicate superiority of the designed system in predicting price index of the Tehran Stock Exchange.

Originality/value

– This paper states its originality and value by compounding the non-linear method issues pattern to predict stock market, to encourage further investigation by academics and practitioners in the field.
Workplace bullying and incivility: a systematic review of interventions
Authors: Hodgins Margaret , MacCurtain Sarah , Mannix-McNamara Patricia
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– Workplace mistreatment has a negative impact on the health and well-being of approximately 20 per cent of workers. Despite this, few interventions have been evaluated and published. The purpose of this paper is to address the question “what interventions designed to reduce workplace bullying or incivility are effective and what can be learnt from evaluated interventions for future practice?”

Design/methodology/approach

– A systematic review was undertaken in which 11 electronic databases were searched, yielding 5,364 records. Following screening on abstract and title, 31 papers were retained for detailed review and quality assessment. Subsequently, 12 interventions to address workplace bullying or incivility were critically appraised.

Findings

– The papers spanned a wide range of approaches to and assumptions about resolving the problem of bullying and/or incivility. Half the studies focused on changing individual behaviours or knowledge about bullying or incivility, and duration of intervention ranged from two hours to two years. Only four studies were controlled before-after studies. Only three studies were classed as “moderate” in terms of quality, two of which were effective and one of which was partially effective.

Originality/value

– A final synthesis of results of the review indicate that multi-component, organisational level interventions appear to have a positive effect on levels of incivility, and should be considered as a basis for developing interventions to address workplace bullying.
From containers to content to context
Authors: Gradmann Stefan
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to reposition the research library in the context of the changing information and knowledge architecture at the end of the “Gutenberg Parenthesis” and as part of the rapidly emerging “semantic” environment of the Linked Open Data paradigm. Understanding this process requires a good understanding of the evolution of the “document” notion in the passage from print based culture to the distributed hypertextual and RDF based information architecture of the WWW.

Design/methodology/approach

– These objectives are reached using literature study and a descriptive historical approach as well as text mining techniques using Google nGrams as a data source.

Findings

– The paper presents a proposal for effectively repositioning research libraries in the context of eScience and eScholarship as well as clear indications of the proposed repositioning already taking place. Furthermore, a new perspective of the “document” notion is provided.

Practical implications

– The evolution described in the contribution creates opportunities for libraries to reposition themselves as aggregators and selectors of content and as contextualising agents as part of future Linked Data based scholarly research environments provided they are able and ready to operate the related cultural changes.

Originality/value

– The paper will be useful for practitioners in search of strategic guidance for repositioning their librarian institutions in a context of ever increasing competition for scarce funding resources.
The decision-making process of luxury fashion retail buyers in Greece
Authors: Perry Patsy , Kyriakaki Margarita
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the decision-making process used by luxury fashion retail buyers in Greece in order to assess the applicability of Sheth's (1981) model to the selection of brands and collections by retail buyers in luxury fashion resellers.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study takes an interpretive approach, utilising participant observation and semi-structured interviews with retail buyers in five luxury fashion reseller companies in Greece, which boasts the world's highest proportion of luxury fashion consumers. Qualitative data were analysed thematically according to the theoretical constructs in Sheth's (1981) model of merchandise buyer behaviour.

Findings

– Brand reputation, quality, appropriateness for the market and exclusive distribution were the most important criteria for supplier selection. For evaluating merchandise, the most important criteria were design, style, fashionability and quality. The most relevant influencer of decision making in supplier selection was the competitive structure in terms of the power balance between retailer and brand. For merchandise selection, the most relevant influencing factors were retailer size, management mentality, product positioning and type of decision (re-buy or new task).

Research limitations/implications

– Due to the exploratory nature of the study and its focus on the context of a particular geographical marketplace, the findings may not be generalised to other countries.

Originality/value

– This paper provides an insight into the decision-making practice of retail buyers in Greek luxury fashion retailers, where the buying task involves balancing the retailer's commercial interests with a more cultural role in terms of shaping fashion trends and generating PR and publicity for the retailer. The task is further complicated by the power imbalance between retailer and brand, enabling brands to impose limitations on the buyer's decision. Additionally, the combined influence of shortening product life cycles, increasing product variety and the emergence of a new and younger luxury fashion consumer requires a shift from intuitive to scientific, data-driven decision making.
Upgrade strategies in the Thai silk industry: balancing value promotion and cultural heritage
Authors: Patichol Preeya , Wongsurawat Winai , M. Johri Lalit
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to substantiate Porter's ideas through multiple case studies of firms in one of Thailand's potential niches – Thai silk.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study examined upgrading strategies adopted by six companies involved in the production and distribution of silk and silk products in Thailand. Information was gathered from company documents and interview statements given by company executives and government policy makers. Standard approaches to organizing and analyzing qualitative case study data, including description, pattern identification, concept categorization and generalization were utilized.

Findings

– The companies have implemented upgrading strategies in the following four main areas: first, balancing efficiency and old customs in production; second, innovating new products while preserving unique traditional features; third, developing modern marketing and distribution techniques with a cultural flare; and fourth, building linkages and clusters.

Practical implications

– Stakeholders of traditional- or cultural-related industries may increase their chances of successfully renewing their businesses’ competitive advantage by carefully balancing the needs to both preserve and modernize key processes in their industries’ value chains.

Originality/value

– The paper's findings and recommendations may to be useful to other traditional industries that share similar challenges both in Thailand and in other Southeast Asian countries.
An investigation of mothers’ and tween daughters’ clothing preferences and purchase intentions toward a prosocial clothing company
Authors: Paff Ogle Jennifer , H. Hyllegard Karen , Yan Ruoh-Nan
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to invoke a consumer socialization approach to compare mothers and tween daughters on variables that may shape their clothing preferences and consumption behaviors. Additionally, this study explored the variables that predict how mothers and daughters respond to Pretty Brainy, an online clothing company that incorporates prosocial messaging into its product design and marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from 106 mother-daughter pairs using an online survey. In completing the survey, participants were instructed to view and evaluate the Pretty Brainy brand web site and clothing.

Findings

– Mothers and daughters assigned similar degrees of importance to several clothing characteristics – including aesthetics/design, comfort, fit, use of socially responsible construction/production methods, and use of high performance technology – providing support for the consumer socialization model. Mothers and daughters were not similar on all clothing constructs explored, however, differing on the importance of some clothing characteristics examined (notably, brand name), as well as past socially responsible clothing purchase behavior, clothing involvement, and proximity of clothing to self. These differences may be explained in part by the mothers’ and daughters’ respective life stages. Among both mothers and daughters, attitude toward brand was the strongest predictor of purchase intention toward Pretty Brainy, which is consistent with established models of the attitude-intention relationship.

Originality/value

– This study provides understanding about the influence of mothers upon tween girls’ clothing consumption behaviors, helping to clarify inconsistencies in prior work as well as lending new insights into the role of mothers in socializing their daughters with respect to socially responsible clothing consumption.
Brands, community and style – exploring linking value in fashion blogging
Authors: Pihl Christofer
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– By using the concept of style, the purpose of this paper is to elaborate on the notion of brand community. More specifically, it seeks to explore how style can function as a linking value in forms of communities centred on brands that emerge within the empirical context of fashion and social media.

Design/methodology/approach

– A netnography of the content produced by 18 fashion bloggers in Sweden was conducted. Content analysis of this material was used to map how consumption objects, in terms of fashion brands, were integrated in activities taking place on blogs, and through these processes, acted as a linking value for community members.

Findings

– This paper demonstrates how fashion bloggers, together with their readers, constitute a form of community centred on style. It also shows how fashion bloggers, by combining and assembling fashion brands and products, articulate and express different style sets, and how they, together with their followers, engage in activities connected to these style ideals.

Research limitations/implications

– As this study has been empirically limited to a Swedish setting, future research would benefit from findings of international expressions of communities of style.

Practical implications

– Based on this study, strategies for managing communities of style is suggested to represent a potential source of competitive advantage for fashion firms.

Originality/value

– In the context of the conceptual discussion about what brings members of communities together, this study provides evidence of how style can function as a linking value in the setting of consumer communities that emerge within the boundaries of fashion and social media.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on customer satisfaction and corporate reputation in automotive industry
Authors: Heidarzadeh Hanzaee Kambiz , Sadeghian Mona
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to evaluate the impact of the most important dimensions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a part of social marketing (SM) according to the current economic crisis and conditions on customer satisfaction (CS) and corporate reputation in the automotive industry and also to create a new approach in the field of CSR with considering the minimum and major stakeholders by a localized model of the most basic and important responsibilities to open up a new perspective to managers to increase the efficiency of production in automotive and other industries.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this study, the authors used descriptive statistics and a questionnaire survey of 245 executive managers of the market leader (Iran Khodro Co.) in automotive industry in Iran. The structural equation modelling (SEM) technique used to examine the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

– The findings of this study conclude that legal and economic responsibilities can be considered as prerequisites for companies. There is no proportional correlation between execution of economic responsibility and CS and corporate reputation; instead, this is regarded as the basic responsibility of companies.

Practical implications

– This research can present CSR as a useful tool that can aid companies' long-term performance and its benefits can become visible in future with preserving their sustainability.

Originality/value

– Although the importance of CSR is more obvious to managers, this study opens up a new aspect of CSR by considering it as an informal structure of corporations.
Using rational and emotional appeals in online advertisements for Muslim customers
Authors: Behboudi Mehdi , Vazifehdoust Hossein , Najafi Kobra , Najafi Mina
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to verify the factors affecting the use of emotional and rational appeals in online advertising among Muslim customers in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

– By reviewing the literature of advertising appeals and developing a comprehensive theoretical model, the effect of rational and emotional appeals on online advertising was examined. Expert questionnaire was administered to verify the validity of collected features. The Student's t-test was utilized to analyze the data collected from 271 participants.

Findings

– Five latent variables, namely user type, product involvement, e-lifestyle, advertising strategies, and internet motives were examined to explain factors affecting online advertising appeals among Muslim customers in Iran. It was found that “advertising strategies” and “user type” are the most effective factors influencing Muslims customers in developing an online advertising campaign.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample of this study was Iranian experts and it is necessary to conduct a survey with a larger sample size.

Originality/value

– This study provides insights into factors affecting the selection of emotional and rational appeals in Muslims countries. Moreover, it reports the primary columns of online advertising appeals.
Marketing executive development in a changing world: the needed executive skills
Authors: J. Montana Patrick , Petit Francis , M. McKenna Tara
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify the challenges and marketing executive development needs of the future as revealed in surveys of senior marketing executives, chief marketing officers and CEOs of major corporations in the USA and globally.

Design/methodology/approach

– A historical analysis of the marketing function, its importance and emerging needs was conducted.

Findings

– Within this paper, the two questions of key importance that will be explored to manage marketing in tomorrow's world are as follows: what emerging trends present challenges to the marketing executive of the future? And what skills and knowledge trends and changes demand that the effective marketing executive acquire? The conclusion of this study indicate that the marketing executive of the future must have the needed skills in managing innovation and change, educating and developing leaders, understand technology, formulate and implement strategy, apply new leadership concepts, collaborate with government, anticipate social and technological advances, become more customer oriented and be more flexible.

Originality/value

– The paper is valuable in that it highlights the challenges and needs of senior marketing executives going forward in a changing world.
Poverty alleviation through CSR in the Indian construction industry
Authors: Wuttke Martina , Vilks Arnis
Published: February 2014

Purpose –

Against the background of still insufficient achievements of particular millennium development goals (MDGs), contributions of private business to the alleviation of poverty have been increasingly called for. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue and explore the CSR strategies of transnational corporations (TNCs) regarding their impact on poverty alleviation within the construction industry in India, in order to gain an insight on how business is engaged in the improvement of the situation of the poor, and to derive recommendations on how pertinent CSR strategies can be further developed.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper collects primary data for monitoring the CSR activities of the largest TNCs within the construction industry in India to conduct a CSR ranking of the sample TNCs in terms of CSR engagement with particular focus on poverty alleviation with respect to the MDGs.

Findings

– The findings show that the core business-oriented focus of the CSR activities of the construction industry is mainly on MDG 1 and 7. Nevertheless, the construction industry still needs to gear its core business towards business models that enhance the housing conditions of the poor and to improve the general social conditions within this industry. Based on the findings the paper suggests a selected industry-specific governmental CSR guidance to propel the implementation of CSR as business case.

Practical implications

– This work provides policy implications for the government and outlines the areas for business practitioners where CSR strategies should be enhanced to meet social needs and contribute to the alleviation of poverty.

Originality/value

– First of its kind study in scrutinizing the contribution of CSR to the alleviation of poverty, particularly regarding TNCs of the construction industry in India.
Business research in India
Authors: K. Mittal Satish , Pillania Rajesh
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the progress of research on business research in India and identify the key disciplines, journals, articles, authors, and institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

– Bibliometric analysis using data for articles published from the ISI Web of Knowledge databases consisting of the ISI Web of Science (1899-present) consisting of Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-expanded), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), and Arts & Humanities Citation Index (A&HCI); BIOSIS Previews (1969-present); CABI: CAAAB Abstracts (1910-present); MEDLINE (1950-present); Zoological Record (1864-present); and Journal Citation Reports (1999-2008).

Findings

– There is growing number of research literature on the theme and more so post 2002. Among the journals, the most prolific, measured by number of articles published are Management Decision, International Journal of Human Resource Management, Harvard Business Review, and Journal of International Marketing and the top ten percent of the journals are responsible for 36 percent of all publications. Similarly the top seven authors are responsible for about 15 percent of all publications and the top ten institutions account for 30 percent of all publications. This highlights that few journals, authors, and institutions are dominating the research arena of business research in India.

Research limitations/implications

– Despite its high degree of objectivity, bibliometric analysis has a subjective dimension (Van Raan, 2003) since the researcher had to make choices on the search terms, the time period used, etc., and while the data set is comprehensive, is it not exhaustive as many new journals are not part of SSCI (Pillania and Fetscherin, 2009; Pillania, 2011).

Practical implications

– The study undertakes a multi-disciplinary review of literature on business research in India. It identifies the key disciplines, journals, articles, authors, and institutions on business research in India. It is a ready reference for practitioners and future researchers on the subject.

Originality/value

– This study has made an attempt to study and document the literature on business research in India.
Green management
Authors: Pillania Rajesh
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this research paper is to study the green management practices and research, teaching, training and consulting in green management in Indian business schools as management education, particularly business schools are among one of the fastest growing industry of Indian economy on one hand and also they have a responsibility to train managers and future managers; provide guidance in terms of consultancy and create new knowledge i.e. research in green management.

Design/methodology/approach

– A questionnaire was developed based on literature review which was first tested and discussed with experts and then used for the survey of 500 top business schools in India which were at least five years old out of the 950 business schools in India.

Findings

– The study shows not so good state of research, teaching, training and consultancy on one hand and below average performance in practice of green management within business schools in India. The findings are not encouraging and Indian business schools need to give more attention to the subject of green management both in theory and practice.

Research limitations/implications

– The authors have taken only the biggest business schools in India. The research work suffers from the usual limitations of survey research method. The findings reflect lack of research on the topic and needs to be taken care of particularly, considering the importance of the topic. Indian business schools needs to build both theory and practice of green management.

Practical implications

– In light of the importance of the subject and on-going debate on business schools, Indian business schools must improve both the practice as well as research, consultancy, teaching and training on the subject to make a real impact.

Originality/value

– This study has made an attempt to study and document the current state of Indian business schools on green management.
Influencing public awareness to prevent male suicide
Authors: Robinson Mark , Braybrook Debbie , Robertson Steve
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report findings from a formative evaluation of a suicide prevention public awareness campaign – Choose Life, North Lanarkshire. The focus is on preventing male suicide. The paper explores how the public campaign supports a co-ordinated and community-based direction for suicide prevention work, and examines how good practice can be identified, spread, and sustained.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper draws on data collected from March to November 2011, using mixed primary research methods, including a quota survey, discussion groups with the general public, and stakeholder interviews.

Findings

– The campaign effectively raised the suicide awareness of a substantial proportion of those targeted, but with regional variations. It also affected the attitudes and behaviour of those who were highly aware. However, men and women engaged somewhat differently with the campaign. The sports and leisure settings approach was effective in reaching younger men.

Practical implications

– The paper discusses emerging considerations for suicide prevention, focusing on gender and approaches and materials for engaging with the public as “influencers”. There are challenges to target audiences more specifically, provide a clear call to action, and engage the public in a sustained way.

Originality/value

– This paper reflects on insights from a complex programme, exceptional in its focus on targeted sections of the public, especially young males. The paper indicates the importance for research and practice of intersecting dimensions of male identity, stigma and mental health, and other risk and protective factors which can inform campaigns highlighting talk about suicide among men.
Personality, pathology and mindsets: part 1 – agency, personality and mindscapes
Authors: Yolles Maurice , Fink Gerhard
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to develop a new socio-cognitive theory of the normative personality of a plural agency like, for instance, an organisation or a political system. This cybernetic agency theory is connected to Bandura's theory of psychosocial function. The agency is adaptive and has a normative personality that operates through three formative personality traits, the function of which is control. The cybernetic agency theory is presented as a meta-model, which comes from cybernetic “living systems” theory.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, in this paper, the authors discuss the virtues of a normative cybernetic agency model in the light of issues related to normal states and pathologies of systems. Formative traits could be derived from Maruyama's mindscape theory or Harvey's typology. However, Boje has noted that with four mindscape types Maruyama's typology is constrained. Consequently, he projected the Maruyama mindscapes into a space with the three Foucault-dimensions: knowledge, ethics and power.

Findings

– The suggested cybernetic agency model with the three formative personality traits can provide a framing for a structural model that has the potential to distinguish between normal and abnormal personalities in the same framework.

Research limitations/implications

– The constraints of the Maruyama mindscape space, as identified by Boje, are suggesting that further research is needed to identify a formative three-trait-system which is theory based, was empirically applied, and is permitting to create a typology with eight extreme types, yet to be identified.

Originality/value

– The paper draws on earlier work undertaken in the last few years by the same authors, who in a new way are pursuing new directions and extensions of that earlier research.