bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer retirement planning: an exploratory study of gender differences
Authors: Grace Debra , Weaven Scott , Ross Mitchell
Published: March 2010

Purpose

Although superannuation planning has been examined within the context of individual choice, life course and cumulative advantage perspectives, little research has been contained within the theories of consumer behavior. This paper, therefore, aims to examine this important issue by delving into the perceptions of retirement planning from the perspectives of both male and female consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research design was adopted to gather in‐depth information within a real‐life context in order to build theory. In total, 21 exploratory semi‐structured interviews, to assist in identifying and describing the variety of thoughts and feelings that female and male consumers hold towards financial retirement planning, were conducted.

Findings

The findings from the in‐depth interviews indicate that males and females adopt different perspectives when it comes to retirement planning. Males tend to adopt an individual choice perspective, whereby it is assumed that retirement will be another stage in life which will provide for a lifestyle conducive with their current standard of living. Women, on the other hand, adopt very much a life course perspective, which makes no assumptions or predictions about future life stages, but one that views outcomes as contingent on the circumstances of one's life.

Originality/value

The value of this research lies in its methodology and analysis. Perceptions of males and females in relation to retirement planning have not before been mapped and, as such, the perpetual maps developed in the paper contribute new knowledge in relation to attitudes and behavior towards retirement financial planning.
Modeling in branding: a critical ethnography approach
Authors: El‐Amir Ayman , Burt Steve
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to shed light on the potential of ethnography to provide a dialectical approach to modeling the process of branding as its focus widens from managerial to social.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical approach to ethnography is adopted and implemented in light of the French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu's ethnographic modeling technique of “participant objectification”.

Findings

The paper demonstrates from the customer standpoint, of a case of a grocery retailer, the ability of critical ethnography to dialectically model the branding process as an organic cultural whole, which envelops an intricate set of different, yet interdependent, social and managerial systems, functioning in a coherent and complementary manner.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical evidence is limited to the area of grocery retailing. Thus, widening the application of the technique in other areas would be desirable.

Practical implications

The dialectical nature of the critical approach to modeling yields a rich multi‐faceted view of the branding process that could help remedy the problem of detachment from complex reality, which has often been a criticism of traditional approaches to modeling in marketing.

Originality/value

The suggested dialectical approach to modeling expands the potential use of ethnography within the critical orientation to theory building in marketing generally, and branding in particular through elaborating the process of cultural construction from textual via participant observation to dialectical via participant objectification.
Methodology applied for maintenance technical audit in urban transport fleets
Authors: Macián V. , Tormos B. , Salavert J.M. , Ballester S.
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a methodology for audit maintenance strategies and processes focused in urban transport fleets.

Design/methodology/approach

In response to this purpose, the main objective is to identify the strengths and the weaknesses of the maintenance system in order to establish actions that minimize the weaknesses and maximise the strengths. To audit properly, a well‐structured methodology is required, in which analyses will be performed, from general to more specific plans and procedures.

Findings

It was found that the evaluation of other related aspects is also necessary. Aspects such as: facilities, personnel, computerised information systems and the accurate management of the information derived from the proper maintenance activities.

Practical implications

Using the methodology described in this paper will make it easier for the company to evaluate real maintenance performance and possible improvements.

Originality/value

By using this methodology, a detailed situation of the fleet's maintenance is illustrated, and consequently different operations can be taken into account to achieve the established improvement objectives
Technical integrity management: measuring HSE awareness using AHP in selecting a maintenance strategy
Authors: Chandima Ratnayake R.M. , Markeset Tore
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of technical integrity management (TIM) and propose a methodology for assessing to which extent the technical integrity (TI) performance is balanced in terms of goal awareness among the personnel responsible for TIM, and the degree to which high level goals are implemented in maintenance strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved a comprehensive literature survey as well as information and data collected in the Norwegian oil and gas (O&G) industry. Several discussion rounds were carried out with the industrial maintenance management experts to recognize the existing practices and to confirm the suggested model.

Findings

The literature review indicated that there is a need for a methodology for assessing to which extent the technical integrity (TI) performance is balanced in terms of goal awareness among the personnel responsible for TIM, and the degree to which high‐level goals are implemented in maintenance strategies. The suggested model can incorporate industrial data as well as intentions, intuitions and experiences of industrial experts who are making decisions sensitive to TI of a production installation.

Research limitations/implications

The study has been conducted in relation to TIM of production installations on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS). The study is limited to measuring TI performance in relations to experts' awareness.

Practical implications

The study stresses the need for improving synergy between the TI and maintenance management function. It proposes a methodology to measure to which extent organizational priorities are balanced, while addressing financial as well as health, safety and environmental (HSE) interests when selecting a maintenance strategy.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a problem that is not given enough attention in the currently available literature. Available approaches suggest models and frameworks for measuring integrity performance. However, the operationalization of most of the existing models and frameworks, remains vague. Instead a formal mechanism is needed to analyze the gap between the present performance and performance targets.
Determining maintenance system requirements by viewpoint of reliability and lean thinking: a MODM approach
Authors: Ghayebloo Sima , Shahanaghi Kamran
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate a model which not only determines minimum level of maintenance requirements but also satisfies expected reliability level.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi‐objective decision making (MODM) model has been developed by viewpoint of decreasing wastes and increasing system reliability. Wastes that have been minimized are maintenance requirements (i.e. labor, spare parts, reserve system and productive maintenance activities) and maintenance system reliability that has been maximized is a function of maintenance requirements. This paper proposed goal programming model for decision‐making aid and a real case in an existing Iranian automobile manufacturing company was studied.

Findings

Output of the proposed model was optimum level of maintenance requirements which satisfies the expected reliability level. For example, outputs of model for man hour approximately are the same as available maximum level and inspection, service and test and adjustment activities are not necessary 12 times a year for all the machineries.

Practical implications

This model is useful for managers because they could use that in any maintenance systems and it would ensure them in achieving minimum level of maintenance requirements and the expected reliability level.

Originality/value

Since lean concept has appeared, many works have been done on decreasing or even eliminating of waste such as extra inventory. Although these studies have not taken into account expected reliability seriously, this paper considers these two issues together.
Stochastic behavior analysis of the forming unit in a paper mill using NGABLT technique
Authors: Komal  , Sharma S.P. , Kumar Dinesh
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The puprose of this paper is to analyse the stochastic behavior of an industrial system using a novel hybridized technique NGABLT. The forming unit of a paper mill situated in north India producing approximately 200 tons of paper per day has been considered for analysis. The authors have made efforts to incorporate vague, ambiguous, imprecise and conflicting information quantified by fuzzy numbers.

Design/methodology/approach

Field data for repairable industrial systems are in the form of failures and repair rates are vague, ambiguous, qualitative and imprecise in nature. Using the data, system stochastic behavior in terms of six well‐known reliability indices is analysed considering some desired degree of accuracy. A practical case of forming unit in a paper mill is considered to compute the reliability indices by using NGABLT technique. Sensitive of system behavior is analysed through surface plots by taking different combinations of reliability indices. The findings have been supplied to the nearby industry for future course of action in maintenance.

Findings

The behavior analysis results computed by NGABLT technique have reduced region of prediction in comparison of existing Lambda‐Tau technique region i.e. uncertainties involved in the analysis are reduced. It may be a more useful tool to assess the current system condition and to improve the system performance.

Originality/value

The authors have suggested a hybridized technique for analyzing the stochastic behavior of the repairable industrial system by computing its reliability indices.
The evolution of organizations and the development of appropriate knowledge structures
Authors: Lucas Leyland M.
Published: March 2010

Purpose

Beginning from the premise that organizations go through different stages of development and that different types of knowledge exist, this paper seeks to explore the extent to which organizations need to place greater emphasis on ensuring adequate and relevant access to knowledge, while protecting it from unwarranted dissemination.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a stage of development framework, a conceptual argument is presented. It is suggested that, while significant attention is paid to knowledge management in organizations, of even greater importance is the need to develop systems and structures to support access, while protecting it from unwarranted dissemination and possible loss of critical capabilities and competencies.

Findings

The paper suggests that there is no single knowledge structure that is appropriate. Instead, organizations must develop different knowledge structures depending on the stage of the organization's development and the type of knowledge under consideration. In so doing, all efforts must be made to facilitate access to knowledge by those who require it but also to recognize that systems must be employed to prevent unwarranted access. Such unwarranted access may erode competencies and capabilities critical to organizational success.

Originality/value

The ideas reinforce the need for organizations to better understand what knowledge they possess and the need to balance requirements for access and control.
Shaping knowledge management: organization and national culture
Authors: Magnier‐Watanabe Rémy , Senoo Dai
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to confirm quantitatively the previous finding that organizational characteristics influence knowledge management, and to assess whether the national culture of knowledge workers equally affects the management of knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data gathered from a questionnaire survey of a Japanese pharmaceutical company's 14 foreign subsidiaries, the effects of organizational characteristics and national culture on knowledge management were tested using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Although organizational characteristics and national culture were found to affect knowledge management, the data showed organizational characteristics to be a stronger prescriptive factor compared with national culture.

Research limitations/implications

Because this research centered on a single company in the pharmaceutical industry, future research should attempt to confirm the validity of this framework in other industries.

Practical implications

Changes in organizational characteristics, such as structure and relationship in particular, rather than adjustments in the composition of employees' nationalities, will have a stronger impact on the resulting knowledge management.

Originality/value

This framework linking organizational characteristics and national culture to knowledge management had received a first justification using a case study approach with a qualitative comparative method and has now been confirmed with a quantitative approach. Among the predictors of knowledge management beyond the realm of deliberate measures within the firm, the data show that organizational characteristics exert a stronger influence than national culture.
The impact of national cultures on structured knowledge transfer
Authors: Chen Jihong , Sun Peter Y.T. , McQueen Robert J.
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of national culture on the structured knowledge transfer from a US‐based (onshore) technical support center to an offshore support center in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted as an interpretive case study. Three techniques (i.e. document review, participant observation, and semi‐structured interviews) were employed for data collection in the field.

Findings

The findings identify that knowledge tacitness, knowledge gaps, cultural and communication difficulties and weak relationships were the critical barriers to successful knowledge transfer in a cross‐cultural knowledge transfer context. It was found that, when a provider and a recipient are located in different individualism/collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance cultural dimensions, there will be a reduced likelihood of successful knowledge transfer in a structured knowledge transfer process. However, peer‐to‐peer help, close relationships and proactive learning may assist in decreasing the knowledge transfer difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited to one organization in one industry (the IT support industry) and in one country (China). There could be both industry‐specific issues and national cultural issues that may affect the findings and conclusions. However, the paper has important practical implications for organizations that are trying to carry out transfer of organizational knowledge or to acquire organizational knowledge in a cross‐cultural business context.

Originality/value

The findings provide insight into the cultural issues implicated in the structured knowledge transfer process, when a knowledge provider and a recipient are from different cultural dimensions, as well as offering more general insight into the mechanism of knowledge transfer in the cross‐cultural business context.
Bridging intention and behavior of knowledge sharing
Authors: Reychav Iris , Weisberg Jacob
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to present an innovative scale that sheds light on the ways in which intentions to share explicit and tacit knowledge impact actual knowledge‐sharing behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from a total of 278 hi‐tech workers. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the research model.

Findings

SEM shows that the intention to share explicit knowledge influences explicit knowledge‐sharing behavior to an equal extent both directly and indirectly. By contrast tacit knowledge‐sharing behavior is influenced directly to a greater extent by the intention to share tacit knowledge and less indirectly by the intention to share explicit knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides a potential tool that may be applied by managers for the purpose of measuring explicit and tacit knowledge‐sharing intention and behavior. Its limitations are due to the limited socio‐economic and geographic variability of the companies and people that were studied, which may need further studies to substantiate.

Originality/value

Whereas there is a consensus as to the need for and the benefits of sharing knowledge, there are no tools for measuring the roots of sharing behavior. The scale presented here captures the underlying intention, measures it, and assesses the resulting behavior.
Knowledge management metrics in software development companies in Brazil
Authors: Goldoni Vanessa , Oliveira Mírian
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The main goal of this research is to analyze knowledge management (KM) evaluation metrics in software development companies in Brazil through the perception of managers and users.

Design/methodology/approach

The method applied was a multiple case study in two information technology companies in Brazil.

Findings

According to the KM objectives and motivations, each company selects an implementation approach that results in specific challenges. The results show that the differences in Company A and Company B can be related to the KM process adopted. Based on the perception of the interviewees, it is possible to affirm that the relevance of a metric depends on the organization's context and the existence of a structured KM process.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusions are based on two case studies of Brazilian IT companies. There could be industry‐specific issues as well as national cultural and behavioral values that might affect the findings and conclusions.

Practical implications

According to the interviewees, the set of process metrics can be linked to the KM process phases and the organizations should contemplate both quantitative and qualitative metrics. The entire set of metrics and its observations in this work can be used as a starting‐point for the selection of the most adequate metrics for each organization.

Originality/value

The research associated the identified metrics in the literature with the knowledge management process phases of creation, storage, dissemination, utilization, and measurement.
Exploring the HRM/accounting interface on human assets
Authors: Tollington Tony , El‐Tawy Nevine
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks is to enhance our understanding of intangible recognition by embracing an artefact‐based approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents an artefact‐based approach to intangible asset recognition, an artefact being a physical and visual representation (typically, documentary) of expended human intellectual and physical creativity. This output orientation (what people create: artefact‐based outputs) is compared to an input orientation (the investment inputs in human “assets”) using artefact‐based asset recognition criteria that have already received some exposure in the marketing literature in respect of brands.

Findings

Emphasis is placed on outputs, i.e. what people create, rather than on the more familiar input orientation, which focuses on investments in human assets. When compared to an output orientation, the more familiar input orientation is an unsatisfactory basis on which to recognise human assets.

Practical implications

The asset recognition criteria provide a useful checklist by which to delineate an intangible asset from an expense.

Originality/value

The criteria have already been applied to brand assets in the marketing domain. It is now being applied for the first time to human assets.
An empirical investigation and users' perceptions on intellectual capital reporting in banks
Authors: Khan Habib‐Uz‐Zaman , Ali Mohobbot
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the findings of a study of intellectual capital (IC) reporting by private commercial banks in the developing economy of Bangladesh, together with the perceptions of a range of stakeholders' with respect to such disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper was informed by the results of a study carried out in relation to Bangladeshi banks. Initially, the annual reports of 20 selected banking institutions listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange were subjected to a content analysis exercise. A questionnaire survey was subsequently conducted to explore stakeholders' perceptions about the practice of IC disclosure within this sector.

Findings

The findings in the paper indicate that the managements of Bangladeshi commercial banks are not currently enthusiastic about the necessity for such voluntary disclosure activity. The key focus for IC reporting is on human capital elements. Stakeholders' are in favour of such reporting across a wider range of IC items than is currently disclosed.

Research limitations/implications

The results of these exploratory studies can be used by researchers to explore further the different types of IC reporting initiatives pursued across a wider spectrum of industries and any differences in users perceptions by industry, as well as over time.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the IC literature by presenting empirical evidence on IC disclosures and users' perceptions about such practices in the context of the Bangladeshi banking sector.
Disclosing improvements in human capital: comparing results to the rhetoric
Authors: Dumay John C. , Lu Jiayang
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the reasons for and outcomes of the rhetoric of disclosures of human capital (HC) management practices and to discuss how disclosures could be changed to be more meaningful and appropriate in practice. Thus, the research question of interest to this paper is “Is the rhetoric of HC disclosure achieved in practice?”

Design/methodology/approach

Using a case study approach, the paper utilises content analysis to examine the rhetoric of HC disclosures and the results of HC management practices utilising corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports, newsletters, annual reports, and other publicly available information, with an emphasis on media reports. The case study organisation is Westpac Bank (Australia), chosen because of the transformation in its approach to HC management since 2001 and its reputation as a global leader in CSR practice and reporting.

Findings

The paper illustrates how highly exposed HC disclosures are to scrutiny by both internal and external stakeholders and if the rhetoric is not transformed into practice how the disclosures can be used as a weapon by adversarial stakeholders to attack the organisation and/or attempt to change the balance of power between management and employees. It is argued that it could be more beneficial if HC disclosures were to report on the ongoing struggles and conflicts that are inherent in HC management practice, rather than not admitting to or not mentioning them at all, in order to reduce information asymmetry and build trust in the disclosures so that that the disclosures are less likely to be seen as merely rhetorical arguments.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to one particular organisation from which generalisation is not possible. Since the research is undertaken from outside the organisation, and relies largely on secondary data sources, it thus also relies in part on conjecture about the change processes which occurred inside the organisation.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the emerging discussion of how organisations put their HC management rhetoric into practice and whether or not they achieve their intended outcomes.
Eliciting success factors of applying Six Sigma in an academic library
Authors: Kim Dong‐Suk
Published: March 2010

Purpose

Six Sigma is a business management strategy originally developed by Motorola for manufacturing processes, which seeks to improve the quality of outputs by identifying and removing the causes of defects and unacceptable variability in the process. Alongside its advantages come difficulties with its application across a service organization, and an in‐depth analysis and identification of its successful factors were required, as they differ considerably from a manufacturing environment. Preparing policies for Six Sigma activities is of the utmost importance. This paper aims to describe its implementation in Sungkyunkwan University Library and a determination of its success.

Design/methodology/approach

The success factors of Six Sigma were examined, as determined through interviews and surveys on the library staff's experiences.

Findings

Since Six Sigma pursues top‐down management, the managers' roles are very important. It was found that mental discipline is also a critical success factor that allows an organization to realize its vision, while focusing on the fundamentals of Six Sigma activities. According to the survey conducted for the study, the success of these activities depends on how well each element of the processes is implemented at specific stages, the level of the participants' interest in the improvement activities, how accurately the CTQ (critical to quality) characteristics are assessed, and whether the outcomes of improvements are measured based on quantifiable indices.

Originality/value

Introducing Six Sigma for the sake of quality improvement following a LibQUAL+ quality assessment of a library has proven effective. Sungkyunkwan University Library is thought to be the first academic library to practise quality management by incorporating Six Sigma in its practice as a library. It is hoped that the experiences of this library will provide guidance for its application in other libraries, and enable them to devise appropriate policies for its successful implementation.
Multi‐faceted measuring of the quality as a tool for quality improvement in the Kuopio University Library, Finland
Authors: Saarti Jarmo , Juntunen Arja , Taskinen Aino
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper sets out to describe the building of the quality management system in one library and especially how different types of quality measurement systems – statistical analyses, benchmarking, surveys – are used in order to improve the quality of the library services. A major emphasis is placed on the involvement of management at both the strategic and everyday levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the form of a case study approach.

Findings

It was found that a multi‐faceted measuring approach helps in the management, planning and public relations of a library.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on the experiences of one library.

Practical implications

The paper gives examples of the implementation of the quality management system's customer feedback and process performance evaluation inside an academic library

Originality/value

The paper provides a model for a basket of indicators for a library's core processes and results.
Planning for impact, assessing for sustainability
Authors: Fried Sandra , Kochanowicz Maciej , Chiranov Marcel
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to explain how the Global Libraries (GL) Initiative of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation plans for and assesses the impact of its programs on libraries and communities as part of their commitment to improving lives by increasing public access to computers and the internet in public libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

GL encourages libraries to design programs and services that address local and national priorities. Impact assessment processes assist libraries in collecting, analyzing and reporting on evidence to show: whether activities are conducted effectively to enable learning and improve processes; whether the program makes a difference to users and communities; and what impact evidence to use in advocacy for continued support and funding. GL's process and philosophy are described and case studies from two grantee programs in two countries are provided.

Findings

The Polish‐American Freedom Foundation (PAFF) adopted innovative methods developed for them by the Information Society Development Foundation to determine baseline library usage in rural public libraries in Poland. Rather than counting borrowers, which was the approach facilitated by the available data, they conducted random sampling in target areas. This allowed them to count users who do not borrow books, and to gauge scale of repeat usage and user demographics. In so doing, the team found that libraries have a substantially higher reach than book‐lending data alone suggested. The International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) assessed community information needs and determined that education, health, and employment are the issues about which Romanians want more information. Libraries in Romania will design services based on a careful understanding of those needs.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings reported are drawn from systematic quantitative and qualitative evidence gathering undertaken as part of the impact‐planning and assessment programs being implemented in the two countries.

Originality/value

The paper presents a current view of the GL approach to impact assessment and service sustainability as well as two early reports, one on the results of baseline evidence collection and the other on community needs assessment in the two participating countries.
Outcomes‐based measurement of public access computing in public libraries
Authors: Pabērza Kristine , Rutkauskiene Ugne
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a methodology for measuring the outcomes of public access computing as well as presenting and comparing the main results of baseline studies conducted in Lithuania and Latvia.

Design/methodology/approach

Both baseline studies use a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods and both include multi‐perspective, longitudinal design and nation‐wide samples.

Findings

The benefits that users can gain from using PAC in public libraries include access to ICT, technology training and assistance, expanded employment opportunities, conducting commercial transactions, access to and assistance with local, state and federal government electronic services, and support for learning, communication and personal identity.

Research limitations/implications

Since these are two baseline‐studies, they do not yet offer scope for comparisons over time, although these will be addressed in both countries. The main problem of impact‐focused research is that it is very tightly linked to influences on individuals, so it is difficult to trace changes and improvements back to the library. The paper shows methods that are currently being tested and used.

Originality/value

The paper reports on the baseline stage of systematic impact assessment programmes being conducted in Latvia and Lithuania as part of their public access computing in public libraries development work, supported by their respective governments and part‐funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Towards an assessment of public library value
Authors: Pabērza Kristine
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to present a methodology, early findings, possible applications of results and lessons learned from the research study “Public libraries: value, trust and satisfaction”, which has been conducted within the public library development project ‘Father's Third Son’ in Latvia.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used (although the findings reported here are largely drawn from the quantitative study) drawing on various theories of information behaviour and use‐oriented information service evaluation.

Findings

The study gives a good picture of user information needs in Latvia, the sources they use to fulfil them and the role of public libraries within this picture, especially in relation to cultural and recreational interests and public support for public libraries in terms of potential funding. The public library influence on people's leisure hours and their support for education are highlighted. The advocacy implications of this work are reviewed.

Research limitations/implications

Although this report is confined to the early stages of the study, the work was conducted on a substantial scale.

Originality/value

The work reported here provides new evidence of library use and appreciation in Latvia. The later results of this study, combined with evidence gathered by other participants in the Global Libraries initiative, will provide a commanding view of the significance of public libraries across a range of countries.
Real life impact of the global libraries: Biblionet Romania Program
Authors: Chiranov Marcel
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the findings from the pilot stage evaluation of the Global Libraries – Biblionet Romania project. The project involves introducing public access ICT via public libraries in Romania and the pilot evaluation was designed to ensure the adoption of an appropriate impact planning and assessment program for the main project.

Design/methodology/approach

Since the start of the Global Libraries – Biblionet Romania project, planning and managing for results have been the guiding philosophy. The team was concerned to find the right balance between what is too much for librarians in terms of data collection, and what precisely to promote as useful metrics with which the librarians are comfortable and which do not create too much extra work. A step‐by‐step approach has been used to involve librarians in decisions, facilitate consensus, and double‐check agreements, understandings and results. This involved phases of engagement with users in the pilot project areas, librarians, and the national professional body.

Findings

The pilot has revealed some of the key characteristics of library patrons as public access ICT users, some of the major factors in implementing public access computing through libraries and important elements of the capacity for change in the national professional body, all of which will inform the design and planning of the main project.

Research limitations/implications

Librarians in the 12 pilot sites had different levels of expertise and interest in data collection and different levels of understanding of the relationship between impact assessment and service development. The paper expresses how one can quantify the benefits of using computer and internet in public libraries. Handled skilfully, this approach can be a strong advocacy tool to communicating with public authorities and other local or national stakeholders. Although this was a pilot project, it was substantial in scale and provides useful insights into all facets of a major implementation program as well as important assessment data on Romanian public libraries.

Originality/value

The pilot project has already provided original evidence of the significance and value of public libraries in Romania. (The main project that will be designed on the basis of this evidence will in due course add a major and continuing further dimension to this process of assessment.)
Control strategy for a mobile self‐balancing materials handling platform
Authors: Butler Louwrens J. , Bright Glen
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the structure of the control strategy that is being deployed on the control of the mobile materials handling platform, from the higher level onboard interface software to the low‐level control system that is tasked with the dynamic stability of the platform.

Design/methodology/approach

The application of the principle of the inverted pendulum in mobile robotics has only recently been made possible by advances in the technology of electronics. A mobile materials handling platform has been designed and built for use in manufacturing systems of the future. The principle of the inverted pendulum has been incorporated into the design. This means that the platform is able to maintain dynamic stability during specific periods of operation. The mechatronic engineering approach was adopted in the design of the platform, which produced an integrated embedded system.

Findings

Open source software being implemented onboard the platform for interfacing between the platform and remote client computers is found to be easily customisable according to the requirements of one's application. A solution to the problem of nonholonomic motion constraints that concern any differential drive mobile robot was found in a nonlinear state transformation algorithm. The algorithm was implemented on an intermediate level between the interface software and the low‐level control system. The low‐level feedback control system was designed using a linear quadratic regulator design method. Simulations of this control system showed that it was robust enough to reject predetermined disturbances in system characteristics.

Originality/value

The application of a mobile platform specifically designed for materials handling based on the principle of the inverted pendulum has not been attempted to date.
On the measurement of work in progress using computer vision: a computerised reporting model
Authors: Makarfi Ibrahim Yahaya
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The desire to improve efficiency has led both academics and practitioners to embrace various technologies to aid managers to discharge their functions. Recently, there has been a growing interest amongst construction researchers on the use of computer vision and image‐processing techniques to automatically capture work in progress. Reported findings are promising; however, those previous studies fall short of providing a reporting mechanism to aid decision making. The purpose of this paper is to develop a reporting model based on progress captured using computer vision.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first presents trends in research relating to use of computer vision in the monitoring of work in progress. It then employs the unified modelling language to present the conceptual development of the model. The computerised reporting model is developed using the visual basic programming language.

Findings

The key elements of the model are computations of cost‐schedule variances, payments and cash flows. Results of a test on a hypothetical case show that the model accurately computes the metrics.

Originality/value

The reporting model serves to provide managers with a quick and easy means of interpreting work progress captured using computer vision. It reinforces the value of already existing work on the application of computer vision techniques to the measurement of work in progress on construction sites.
Design agility through computer aided design
Authors: Vinodh S. , Devadasan S.R. , Shankar C.
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report a research which is conducted to examine the power of computer aided design (CAD) in achieving agility in traditional organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The CAD model of the knob of an electronic switch was developed. This model was shown to the team of executives. The theoretical and practical knowledge provided by them were utilized to design new ten CAD models of the knob. The reactions of the executives about these new models were gathered and analyzed.

Findings

The creation of a CAD model of an existing product is found to be a useful input for evolving new models in an agile manner. It is found to be an easy task to gather the theoretical and practical knowledge for achieving design agility through the visualisation of CAD models.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is conducted on only one component manufactured by an electronic switches manufacturing organization. Although it appears to be a limitation of this paper, the nature of the design process carried out in this traditional organization mimics that of any other design practices carried out in the world. Hence, the contributions of this paper are applicable in traditional manufacturing environment.

Practical implications

Throughout the conduct of this research, the practitioners' views are gathered. Their views are favorable towards the successful usage of CAD model in achieving design agility.

Originality/value

For many years, CAD has been used for carrying out complex design projects. However, it appears that it has not been used in its simplest form to visualise and bring out new models electronically for achieving design agility. This simple approach is presented in this paper which may be used by both theorists and practitioners.
Special issue on creative methods of inquiry in arts marketing
Authors: Larsen Gretchen , O'Reilly Daragh
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this Editorial is to introduce the reader to the changing environment of arts marketing, which poses challenges to researchers and necessitates creative methods of inquiry.

Design/methodology/approach

The Editorial introduces the papers in this special issue.

Findings

It was found that creative inquiry in arts marketing includes the use of both established and innovative interpretive methods.

Originality/value

The Editorial explains how the application of creative methods of inquiry can aid our understanding of the relationship between art and the market.
Before method: axiomatic review of arts marketing
Authors: Bradshaw Alan
Published: March 2010

Purpose

For the purpose of reconsidering arts marketing methodologies, this paper seeks to contemplate the axiomatic foundations of alternative arts marketing scholarship, to ask what conversation between arts and marketing they herald and to explore the consequent conceptual issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews and evaluates the arts marketing literature.

Findings

The paper develops and presents four categories of arts marketing: the consumption of art; marketing as art; art as marketing; and marketing interpreting art.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to arts marketing paradigmatic and methodological debates by exploring the axiomatic foundations of this nascent field.
More than words? Conversation analysis in arts marketing research
Authors: O'Sullivan Terry
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of Conversation Analysis methods in arts marketing research.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight telephone interviews are conducted with members of the audience of a regional UK symphony orchestra who self‐identified as users of online message boards (“web forums”). The interviews are transcribed and interpreted using techniques from Conversation Analysis, an approach to qualitative data analysis which pays close attention to the details of language‐in‐use as a form of activity by and between speakers.

Findings

Conversation Analysis‐led interpretation suggests that motivations for participation in web forums are more complex than literal analysis of interview data might reveal. Conversation Analysis' detailed attention to how communicators manage their interaction emphasises the co‐production of data between respondent and interviewer. The manner of emotion and meaning (re)construction through such exchanges provides valuable cues for researchers in interpreting respondent motivations. Because of the personalised nature of arts experience, this highly specific, context‐oriented approach to understanding respondent meanings offers particular potential to arts marketing researchers.

Research limitations/implications

The use of produced data (interview transcripts) rather than naturally‐occurring data (spontaneous talk) in Conversation Analysis is controversial, but the paper defends this choice.

Practical implications

Insights from Conversation Analysis enrich the interpretation of interview data to enhance qualitative research in the arts.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the extra value scholars can leverage from qualitative data interpretation by Conversation Analysis, and thus adds to an understanding of arts consumers.
Art, ideology, and introspection
Authors: Patterson Anthony
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore introspection in marketing research, its controversial origins, its positioning as an art form, the possibilities and the pitfalls of research based on this method, and how to successfully enter into its creative spirit.

Design/methodology/approach

Although its overall approach is broadly conceptual, in a similar fashion to the dramatic device of a‐play‐within‐a‐play, the paper makes a habit of using introspection to reflect on introspection.

Findings

While it is clear that well‐written introspections can deliver rich stream‐of‐consciousness accounts of marketing‐relevant goodness from beginning to end, they provide more than just frivolous entertainment. The innermost imperative of introspection equates well with consumption, creativity and aestheticisation, the corner‐stones of arts marketing.

Research limitations/implications

The inherent mucky‐mindedness of introspection as a formal method lays its success or failure on the shoulders of the paper's author.

Practical implications

Whatever their interpretive methodology of choice, arts marketers, indeed all marketers, should give serious thought to integrating introspection into their research approach.

Originality/value

While many of the ideas in the paper are pilfered from other sources (see long list of references), the author is proud to assert that precisely these words have never been written in precisely this order.
Immersion, emergence and reflexivity: grounded theory and aesthetic consumption
Authors: Goulding Christina , Saren Michael
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest grounded theory as a potential methodology within the field of arts marketing and the creative industries in general, particularly if the research aims to gain insights into consumer experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded theory is a general, qualitative methodology that is concerned with social processes and interactions. The paper looks at the fundamental processes that grounded theory must follow and provides an example of applying grounded theory in the context of researching the Goths, an aesthetic subculture.

Research limitations/implications

The paper suggests that within the creative industries there is scope for the wider application of inductive, theory‐building methodologies that aim to provide deeper understanding of behavior.

Originality/value

The value of the paper lies in detailing a systematic methodology that scholars may apply across the spectrum of creative and cultural marketing from music festivals to museums.