bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theorizing engagement: the potential of a critical dialogic approach
Authors: Bebbington Jan , Brown Judy , Frame Bob , Thomson Ian
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to discussions about engagement in social and environmental accounting, drawing on dialogic theory and philosophy. A dialogic approach, building on existing critical inquiries, is introduced to derive principles to inform “on the ground” engagements. Applying dialogic thinking to social and environmental accounting encourages the development of dialogic forms of accountability, more authentic engagements and is more likely to contribute to sustainable social and environmental change.

Design/methodology/approach

Contains a synthesis of literature from within and beyond social and environmental accounting to shed light on the issues addressed by the special issue.

Findings

Research engagements in social and environmental accounting need not be taken in a haphazard manner uninformed by theory. In particular, the “learning turn” in social sciences has generated a large body of theorizing (informed by concrete engagement activities) that can be used to shape, guide and support engagement.

Practical implications

The principles developed can be used to inform future research design, with the aim of increasing the likelihood that such engagements will yield outcomes of “value” usually defined as emancipatory changes.

Originality/value

This paper develops a new (to accounting) theoretical perspective.
Making a difference
Authors: Adams Carol A. , McNicholas Patty
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the understanding of corporate processes for developing a sustainability report, the hurdles faced by organisations and the way in which organisational change towards improved accountability occurs and can lead to changes in sustainability performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This research involves engagement through an action research approach involving the observation of corporate meetings, the provision of feedback on those meetings by the researchers and review of internet and hard copy sustainability reporting.

Findings

The study identified a number of impediments to the development of a sustainability reporting framework and its integration into planning and decision making, as well as forces for change. These were analysed using the organisational literature, particularly Kurt Lewin's integrated model of planned change. Differences were observed between the state‐owned organisation and prior studies of shareholder owned companies in their motivations for achieving sustainability and greater accountability.

Practical implications

From the organisation's perspective, the study provided immediate feedback which enhanced reporting practices and the incorporation of sustainability issues into decision making. The study has the potential to improve practice in other organisations through the identification of impediments to and forces for change not considered in prior theorising.

Originality/value

The action research approach contributes to knowledge and theorising in a way which could not have been achieved through interviews alone. It assisted change within the organisation in: adopting a sustainability reporting framework; integrating sustainability issues into planning and decision making; and, further embedding sustainability and accountability values. The findings in the state owned organisation contrast recent findings for shareholder‐owned companies.
Social accounting at Traidcraft plc
Authors: Dey Colin
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an account of the development and implementation of social accounting at the UK fair trade organisation Traidcraft plc.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an ethnographic approach, the paper critically reflects on the role of this emerging form of accounting in an ongoing intra‐organisational struggle for meaning within Traidcraft over the management of its “fair‐trade” business.

Findings

The paper argues that the implementation of a formal system of “social bookkeeping” largely failed to achieve its intended objective to further augment the organisation's accountability relationships with its key stakeholders. However, in the context of organisational change, the accounting intervention was nevertheless significant, in a quite unexpected (and possibly undesirable) way. Along with a number of other intra‐organisational factors, the intervention produced a decisive, management‐led change within the organisation towards a more commercial interpretation of its religious principles, which the organisation termed “New Traidcraft”.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the change/appropriation debate surrounding corporate social reporting by providing insights into the complex range of political, functional and social factors that may influence the outcome of social accounting interventions. The paper also provides evidence to support the argument that social and environmental accounting interventions can be influential (if not necessarily desirable) when they are aligned with substantive changes in the organisation itself.
From functional to social accountability
Authors: O'Dwyer Brendan , Unerman Jeffrey
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the evolving nature of the accountability relationship between a group of Irish non‐governmental development organisations (NGDOs) and their primary governmental funder.

Design/methodology/approach

The examination is undertaken in the context of a unique funder‐led initiative to instil a broad social accountability focus among NGDOs while re‐orienting the NGDO‐funder accountability dynamic towards a partnership‐based approach – whereby the accountability entity would effectively be a supra‐organisation comprising the funder and the NGDOs. The empirical content of the paper is derived from a series of in‐depth interviews with senior individuals working within the Irish NGDO sector, along with a comprehensive analysis of documentary sources.

Findings

The partnership rhetoric central to promoting the enhanced focus on social accountability across the “virtual” accountability supra‐organisation has not been transformed into reality, and the NGDO‐funder accountability relationship within the supra‐organisation remains centred on control and justification. A lack of resources, organisational commitment, guidance, and expertise from the governmental funder has contributed to an attitude of scepticism among many NGDOs towards both the partnership rhetoric and the accompanying adoption of the central tenets of social accountability, particularly downward accountability to beneficiaries.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on a detailed analysis in a specific context which may limit its wider applicability. Nevertheless, it adds insights to the developing academic literature on NGO accountability, with particular reference to their broader social accountabilities.

Practical implications

Although highly context‐specific, the findings of the study will be useful to researchers and policy makers interested in understanding how NGDO‐funder accountability relationships can move towards mutual accountability and genuine partnerships focused on promoting social accountability.

Originality/value

Very few in‐depth academic examinations of the evolving nature of NGDO‐funder accountability relationships in specific NGO contexts have emerged in the accountability literature. Many of the insights in this paper are derived from individuals inside organisations in the NGDO sector who are regularly addressing issues of accountability, both social and otherwise. This provides in‐depth, highly‐informed insider perspectives on the evolving nature of these relationships, especially in the context of attempts to promote more partnership‐based approaches to the delivery of development aid.
The views of corporate managers on the current state of, and future prospects for, social reporting in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Belal Ataur , Owen David L.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to respond to recent calls for more engagement‐based studies of corporate social reporting (CSR) practice by examining the views of corporate managers on the current state of, and future prospects for, social reporting in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a series of interviews with senior managers from 23 Bangladeshi companies representing the multinational, domestic private and public sectors.

Findings

Key findings are that the main motivation behind current reporting practice lies in a desire on the part of corporate management to manage powerful stakeholder groups, whilst perceived pressure from external forces, notably parent companies' instructions and demands from international buyers, is driving the process forward. In the latter context it appears that adoption of international social accounting standards and codes is likely to become more prevalent in the future. Reservations are expressed as to whether such a passive compliance strategy is likely to achieve much in the way of real changes in corporate behaviour, particularly when Western developed standards and codes are imposed without consideration of local cultural, economic and social factors. Indeed, such imposition could be regarded as little more than an example of the erection of non‐tariff trade barriers rather than representing any meaningful move towards empowering indigenous stakeholder groups.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature on CSR in developing countries where there is a distinct lack of engagement‐based published studies.
Performance measurement definitions
Authors: Moullin Max
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a definition of performance measurement.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes performance measurement definitions in the context of organisational excellence

Findings

It is shown that there is a clear relationship between performance measurement and organisational excellence.

Originality/value

The paper outlines a definition offering a clear link between performance measurement and organisational excellence
Health care financing in Uganda: the role of social health insurance
Authors: Quaye Randolph K.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore the feasibility of introducing a social health insurance (SHI) scheme in Uganda from the perspectives of a targeted population of respondents in Kampala, Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

Out of 100 questionnaires distributed to a random sample of Ugandans, 74 were returned, yielding a 74 percent response rate.

Findings

Results show that all Ugandans surveyed support the introduction of SHI. Some are willing to contribute financially and most believe that the Ugandan government should make this benefit available to all Ugandans. While there is a great deal of support for introducing SHI, several respondents noted that cost sharing, in whatever form taken, is burdensome on people with lower incomes and has disastrous consequences for the delivery and utilization of health services among the poor.

Originality/value

A larger study exploring Ugandans' perspectives may provide valuable information on how Africans can begin to design a workable health financing structure to promote better access to health care for the most vulnerable groups in society.
Using the Public Sector Scorecard in public health
Authors: Moullin Max , Soady John , Skinner John , Price Charles , Cullen John , Gilligan Christine
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to describe an application of the Public Sector Scorecard (PSS) to Sheffield's Stop Smoking Service.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the PSS, an integrated service improvement and performance measurement framework for the public and voluntary sectors. The PSS shares the key advantages of the Balanced Scorecard in ensuring that performance measures reflect all aspects of an organisation's performance and have clear links to the organisation's strategy. In addition its structure and methodology, with more emphasis on service user involvement, working across organisational boundaries, process mapping, service improvement, and risk management, provide many additional benefits to organisations in the public and voluntary sectors. The study incorporated service user workshops with over 100 service users and a series of meetings with a reference group containing staff, service users and other key stakeholders.

Findings

The paper concludes that the PSS has many benefits both in improving a public health service and in aligning its strategy, processes and performance measures both with one another and with the requirements and expectations of service users and other key stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper will be of use to anyone interested in integrating strategy, service improvement, and performance measurement whether in public health or in other public or voluntary organisations.
Nurses' perspectives on quality of nursing care: a qualitative study in Iran
Authors: Tafreshi Mansoureh Z. , Pazargadi Mehrnoosh , Abed Saeedi Zhila
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Quality of health care is the degree of the most optimal degree of health outcomes by delivery of effective, efficient and cost‐benefit professional health services to people and communities. As nurses are the largest groups among health care professionals and are legally liable and morally responsible for their care, thus their perspective on quality of nursing care is important. The purpose of this qualitative study is “to define and describe quality from the perspective of nursing experts and clinical nurses”.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper data were collected in two phases (ten individual interviews and five focus group discussions). A total of 44 clinical nurses and ten nursing experts participated through a purposeful sampling frame. Data analysis was conducted by latent content analysis to achieve a definition of nursing care quality.

Findings

The findings in this paper show that, according to similarities and differences between nursing experts' and clinical nurses' perspectives on quality, the final definition is “delivery of safety care based on nursing standards which eventuates in patient satisfaction”. Findings reveal that in nurses' perspectives on quality definition two important aspects have been mostly considered: “standard of care” and “patient satisfaction”. Moreover, both participant groups have emphasized the benefits of collaborative work in health care (teamwork). Further in this study, organizational and socio‐cultural roles in delivering quality nursing care have been mentioned such as staffing, budget, leadership, and social perspectives about nursing as a highly educated profession.

Originality/value

The paper offers an overview of nurses' perspectives of quality of nursing care in Iran.
An overview of six sigma applications in healthcare industry
Authors: Tolga Taner Mehmet , Sezen Bülent , Antony Jiju
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Delays, measurement and medical errors and variability often undermine the delivery of safe, effective patient care. However, it is possible to minimize them by applying six‐sigma. This methodology aims to focus on the root causes of healthcare problems, analyses them by flowcharts and fishbone diagrams and produces near‐perfect healthcare services.

Design/methodology/approach

Five case studies in healthcare are designed to show the performance improvement accomplished by six sigma. The DMAIC (Define‐Measure‐ Analyse‐Improve‐Control), i.e. a road‐map for problem solving and service/process improvement, is implemented.

Findings

The findings in this paper show that the healthcare organization has a greater ability to address challenges across the system. Resource utilization has been maximized. Fewer redundancies, waste and rework have been observed. Bottle‐necks related to scheduling have diminished. Working conditions have improved for healthcare personnel. Increased patient and physician satisfaction as well as cost savings have been achieved. These will enable the healthcare organization to increase its market share in the long run.

Originality/value

The application of six sigma in healthcare services is relatively new topic and very little research has been performed in this area. The paper will be extremely valuable to researchers and practitioners who are currently engaged in six sigma research.
A Client’s Perception of Business Education
Authors: Barrett Nigel
Published: June 2007

Outlines the requirements of a business school. Business schools should
be centres of excellence with high‐quality faculty. Learning styles of
individuals should be considered and programmes modularized. The
fundamental issue is relationship management between the client and
supplier.
The Future of Distance Learning in Management Development
Authors: Daniel John
Published: June 2007

Examines the increasing role of distance learning in management
development, drawing on the success of the Open University and the Open
Business School. Concludes that distance learning will supply long‐term
job‐related development processes for managers.
Ecopreneurship – a new approach to managing the triple bottom line
Authors: Dixon Sarah E.A. , Clifford Anne
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend research into social and ecological entrepreneurship. It aims to examine how ecopreneurs can create an economically viable business whilst retaining their core environmental and social values.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory approach within the phenomenological research paradigm. Single case study of Green‐Works triangulating data collection – semi structured interviews, micro‐ethnography and document analysis. Inductive approach.

Findings

A strong link is identified between entrepreneurialism and environmentalism. The entrepreneurial flair of the CEO enables the pursuit of environmental, social and economic goals. The success of the Green‐Works business model stems from the business's symbiotic relationships: firstly with large corporate bodies, which are keen to quantify their CSR efforts; secondly, with the community and social partners, who provide employment and training for disadvantaged people and a route to relatively risk free growth; and thirdly, with government and social institutions, which provide special concessions and support. The strong economic foundations of the model provide sustainability for the environmental and social objectives of the organisation.

Research limitations/implications

Research restricted to one UK case study – a model that has evolved in part through policies and business trends specific to the UK. Further research should compare this business model with other social enterprises within the UK and other countries.

Practical implications

Provides a practical framework for social and green entrepreneurship. Of interest to ecopreneurs and social enterprises seeking economic sustainability; to governments, wishing to promote CSR, environmentalism and social enterprise; and to corporate organisations wishing to demonstrate a quantitative contribution to the environment and society.

Originality/value

Demonstration of natural fit between environmentalism and entrepreneurialism. Presentation of business model offering economic sustainability for environmental and social enterprises.
Aesthetics from a design perspective
Authors: Weggeman Mathieu , Lammers Irene , Akkermans Henk
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relationship between aspects of aesthetics and the performance of organizations. It outlines a research agenda for studying the impact of aesthetic factors upon organizational design and change.

Design/methodology/approach

In the paper, a set of seven propositions is developed to address various aspects of organizational performance that are influenced by beauty in organizations. These propositions are based on a distinction between the concepts process aesthetics, product aesthetics and aesthetic sensibility.

Findings

The hypotheses suggest that organizational performance might be enhanced by the beauty of products and services, and indirectly by the aesthetics of organizational work processes, organizational structures, the personal well‐being of employees and organizational designers with a high degree of aesthetic sensibility.

Research limitations/implications

The hypothesis in this paper should be tested by future researchers.

Practical implications

The paper might enhance the awareness of practitioners of the practical value of aesthetics

Originality/value

The paper adds to the new field of organizational aesthetics a performance‐oriented approach based on a design perspective.
First steps: linking change communication to change receptivity
Authors: Frahm Jennifer , Brown Kerry
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Change receptivity is recognised as an important factor in successfully implementing organizational change strategies. The purpose of this paper is to examine the process of change in the initial stages of a change agenda within a public sector organization and analyze the communication of change. It traces the resultant receptivity to organizational change. The paper investigates whether organizational change communication is a crucial element in employees' receptivity to change.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study design is employed and the multiple methods employed include surveys, focus groups, archival data and participant observation.

Findings

The findings indicate that the initial change communication is problematic. The employees respond to a lack of instrumental change communication with a constructivist communication approach in order to manage the implications of continuous change.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides an overview of the first 100 days of change in a public sector organization only, and so the limitations of single case studies apply. However, the close investigation of this phase provides further research directions to be addressed.

Practical implications

The findings suggest managers need to align employees' expectations of the change communication with understanding of the change goal.

Originality/value

The primary value of the paper is in using a communicative lens to study the change process.
Developing internet operations and subcultural dynamics
Authors: Ogbonna Emmanuel , Harris Lloyd C.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

It is commonly argued that the exponential growth in the application of internet technology is one of the most important recent developments in business and management. However, although much research has been conducted on the strategic and operational aspects of the internet, there is a surprising dearth of research on the organizational cultural dynamics of this technological innovation. The purpose of this study is to examine the implications of introducing an internet‐led strategy on organizational culture.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, the study explores the attempts by management to exploit the introduction of internet operations as a catalyst to transform the culture of the organization.

Findings

It is argued that although a number of factors (such as organizational centrality and senior management patronage) increased the profile of the Internet Operations Unit, the attempt by this unit to dominate subcultural dynamics was met with difficulties, dissenting voices and issues that were not wholly consistent with the wishes of senior management.

Originality/value

The paper offers insight into the emergent subcultures and the attempts of their members to increase their visibility and influence within the organization as a whole.
Finding form: elite sports and the business of change
Authors: Gilmore Sarah , Gilson Clive
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To explain how an organization has been able to use seismic changes in its wider external environment to transform its performance without the need for radical internal restructuring or coercive forms of leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper utilises a three year case study from elite sport, an under‐represented sector in the management literature but one that offers a fascinating view of change.

Findings

Whilst the change management literature typically emphasises dramatic and rapid coercive restructuring accompanying open‐ended environment change, this study found that known routines and historical ways of working existed alongside innovation, risk‐taking and learning; the paradoxical foundation upon which performance flourished.

Research limitations/implications

Although the dangers of single cases are noted, difficulties regarding access and comparability with other similar organizations prevented a similar degree of focus on multiple cases. Future research either within elite sports teams or other organizations facing similar environmental change is needed to extend and enhance the asset maximization model presented here.

Practical implications

This analysis and the development of an asset maximisation approach questions the traditional processual or design‐based approaches towards managing change and argues for the capture and incorporation of business and strategic decision making within such accounts.

Originality/value

The paper is a rare account of change within elite sports. The asset maximisation approach developed within this case study illustrates how holistic value creation in turbulent times is achieved. As such, its conclusions will have much to offer organizations as well as academics interested in the management of change.
Corporate entrepreneurship
Authors: Rutherford Matthew W. , Holt Daniel T.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to submit and test a model of corporate entrepreneurship (CE).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 264 employees of a mid‐sized organization, the authors conceptualize three antecedent categories of CE: process, context, and individual characteristics. The authors also test the mediating affect of CE on desirable individual outcomes: job satisfaction, turnover intent, and affective commitment.

Findings

The results indicate that the model does an adequate job of explaining CE, and that CE mediates the relationship between our antecedents and individual outcomes.

Originality/value

For researchers, the primary value of this research is the opportunity to consider a predictive model of CE on the knowledge base currently in the field. For practitioners, the process seems to offer an important precursor to CE.
SMD Assembly on to Moulded Interconnection Devices
‐ Available Systems and Developments*
Authors: Feldmann K. , Brand A.
Published: June 2007

The assembly of surface mounted component parts into 3‐dimensional moulded circuit boards
enables the integration of electronic and mechanical functions. However, this requires the
assembly processes to be adapted to the MID’s 3‐dimensional geometry. This paper describes
research on the development of assembly systems for MIDs at the FAPS Institute. Limits on the
application of solder paste on inclined process planes are discussed, as well as possibilities of
assembling with conventional assembly systems. A possibility for adapting existing assembly systems
to new requirements is demonstrated and a concept for an optimised MID assembly system will be
given.
Fluxless Flip‐chip Bonding on Flexible Substrates: A Comparison between Adhesive Bonding and Soldering*
Authors: Aschenbrenner R. , Zakel E. , Azdasht** G. , Kloeser A. , Reichl H.
Published: June 2007

During the last few years an increasing number of flip‐chip (FC) interconnection technologies have emerged. While flip‐chip assembly offers many advantages compared with conventional packaging techniques, several aspects prevent this technology from entering the high volume market. Among these are the availability of bumped chips and the costs of the substrates, i.e., ceramic substrates with closely matching coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) to the chip, in order to maintain high reliability. Only recently, with the possibility of filling the gap between chip and organic substrate with an encapsulant, was the reliability of flip‐chips mounted on organic substrates significantly enhanced. This paper presents two approaches to a fluxless process, one based on soldering techniques using Au‐Sn metallurgy and the other on adhesive joining techniques. Soldering is performed with a thermode and with a laser based system. For both of these FC‐joining processes, alternative bump mettallurgies based on electroplated gold, electroplated gold‐tin, mechanical gold and electroless nickel gold bumps are applied.
Case Histories of Radiation Curing for Electronic Packaging
Authors: Swanson P.
Published: June 2007

Light radiation cure adhesives, coatings and encapsulants are being used in the electronics manufacturing
industry with increasing frequency because their properties and process advantages are
a good fit for the manufacturing requirements which are demanded by current industry
drivers, such as miniaturisation, environmental and health & safety demands,
manufacturing yield improvement and total product cost. Light curing adhesive
systems in the electronics manufacturing industry have found applications in strain
relief, wire and parts tacking, coil terminating, tamper‐proofing, structural
bonding, temporary masking, potting, encapsulation, glob topping, conformal coating,
and surface mount component attachment. This paper describes three case histories
where photo cure adhesives were introduced to an electronics manufacturing
environment, and discusses their rationale, implementation and their economics. The
case histories encompass printed circuit board assembly (including surface
mount), electronics packaging and microelectronic encapsulation. Production
managers and process engineers are given confidence that practical adhesive
application can be clean, fast and economical.
BGA and CGA Solder Attachments: Results of Low‐acceleration Reliability Test and Analysis *
Authors: Engelmaier W.
Published: June 2007

Highly accelerated tests, while capable of producing failures in short test durations, can cause significant damage and failure as a result of damage mechanisms and/or material behaviour not present in the actual use of electronic product. This is particularly true for surface mount solder attachments. The results of low‐acceleration reliability tests for the solder attachments of ball grid arrays (BGAs) and column grid arrays (CGAs) are reported in this paper. The tests were designed to mimic the thermal conditions of the use environment of the product, including internal power dissipation within the grid array components, as closely as practically possible. The test acceleration comes from two measures taken: (1) controlled reduced dwell times at the cyclic temperature extremes, thus allowing a higher cyclic frequency, and (2) a controlled increased CTE‐mismatch between the components and the test circuit board by an increase in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the test circuit boards relative to the product cirucit boards. Control test vehicles with product‐like circuit board construction were also utilised. The results from the different test vehicle configurations are correlated and utilised to estimate the reliability of the product in the field.
Printing of SMT Adhesives
Authors: Miric A.Z.
Published: June 2007

SMT adhesives are applied to printed circuit boards by the following techniques: dispensing (c. 90% of all manufacturers use this technique at present), printing and pin transfer. The conventional dispensing method of applying adhesive utilises variations in dispense time, pressure and temperature combined with needle diameter to form
deposits of varying volume and geometry. Recently, the printing technique has attracted a lot of
interest. This technique is well known from solder paste printing. The major driving force is the higher
throughput of this application method. moreover, a new printing technique with thick stencils allows the
deposition of glue dots with different diameters and different heights. Two printing methods will be
discussed: conventional printing technology and printing with thicker stencils.
Build Cycle Time Reduction through Process
Optimisation*
Authors: Valladares H.
Published: June 2007

Since establishing a low volume, high reliability surface mount technology
(SMT) facility, a number of problems have been overcome as part of the learning
experience. The tailoring of processes for a flexible assembly area brought to light a number of
issues that traditional SMT facilities do not face. This paper describes the many processes
optimised by the SMT facility team in becoming an on‐time, high reliability producer.
The topics include the development of design standards, forming, tinning, stencil printing, and
component placement. Several producibility enhancements are also described in a
case‐study of a solder mask evaluation project. The paper describes the many process
improvements implemented over the past few years.
Hard‐particle Reinforced Composite Solders Part 1: Microcharacterisation
Authors: Marshall J.L. , Calderon J.
Published: June 2007

A series of composite solders in 63/37 Sn/Pb was prepared: Cu6 Sn5 (10, 20,
30 wt%); Cu3 Sn (10, 20, 30 wt%); Cu (7.6 wt%); Ag (4 wt%); and Ni (4 wt%). These composite solders were prepared by two procedures: (A) admixture with solder paste; and (B) admixture with molten solder. The original particulates and the final composite solders were analysed and characterised
by SEM (scanning electron microscopy) EDX (energy dispersive X‐ray), and ESCA (electron spectroscopy for chemicals
analysis); or XPS (X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy). A variety of morphological characterisations, intermetallics and porosities were noted. Good wetting was noted in all cases, and porosity was greater for method (A). The particulates all exhibited excellent binding to the solder matrix.
The Roles of DNP (Distance to Neutral point) on Solder Joint Reliability of Area Array Assemblies
Authors: Lau J.H.
Published: June 2007

The objective of this paper is to point out the limitations and ròles of DNP (distance to neutral point) on predicting the solder‐joint thermal‐fatigue life of area‐array assemblies.
A Quality Transformation in Vocational Education
Authors: Mather Alison
Published: June 2007

General Vocational Qualifications (GNVQs) are one element in a range of
exciting developments in vocational education and training. Aims to
explain the GNVQ structure and application in the health‐care field.
This is the first in a series of three produced by the NHS Training
Division. The second will explore the potential of GNVQs and the
barriers to the realization of that potential. Following research by NHS
Training Division, the final article will explore the acceptability of
GNVQs in the health‐care sector as a passport to employment, further,
higher and professional education and training, and in continuing
professional/ occupational development.
Change management in the public sector
Authors: Caple Laurie
Published: June 2007

Summarizes the management of change in a high profile public
service with more than its fair share of political influences.
Demonstrates the scale of change possible, given a clear strategy and a
strong managerial commitment. Argues that this leads to high
productivity, quality and value for money, with a strong element of
organizational loyalty and ownership of the end product.
Remarks on the quality of the construction of business concepts
Authors: Tapio Lindman Martti
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for the construction of business concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed framework is developed through a discussion which is based on a review of existing literature and prevailing views as regards the concept of the business concept. The key premises of the study are tested through an explorative case research.

Findings

Customer value is the core of the proposed framework. Customer interface, product offering and differentiation form the key value creating platform in the management of business concepts. All three components of the platform are tightly linked and dependent of each others, implying that in order to find a good harmony firms must think holistically and be prepaid for adjustments. A new business configuration becomes necessary each time when the terms of the value creation are changed to deal with the competition. Configuration of existing business activities may offer a solution through differentiation but is subject to the building of new competences. As a whole innovation and competence building form the two most decisive critical factors behind the construction of successful new business concepts.

Practical implications

The suggested framework indicates upon which key issues business managers should focus when they aim to identify and develop new business concepts.

Originality/value

The concept of business concept is highly undeveloped as to its conceptual clarity and relation to strategic thinking. Also the existing literature of this topic is very scarce. The suggested framework improves this situation in attempting to develop a concrete tool for the understanding of what a business concept is.
A review and delineation of cooperation and coordination in marketing channels
Authors: Payan Janice M.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to delineate the similarities and distinctions between cooperation and coordinate and to present distinctive definitions for each.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive review of the extant literature was conducted to examine the precedents with regards to the conceptual domains of cooperation and coordination.

Findings

This paper concludes that cooperation is an orientation that one firm has about working with another organization; whereas, coordination are joint activities. This is reflected in the definitions presented in this paper.

Originality/value

Several researchers and practitioners alike view cooperation and coordination as synonymous. However, an organization's cooperative orientation about working with another organization does not inherently lead to coordination. This paper points out that it is necessary to consider cooperation and coordination as two separate but related issues in managing interorganizational relationships.
International textile and clothing research register
Authors: Stylios George K.
Published: June 2007

Looks at the eighth published year of the ITCRR and the research, from far and near, involved in this. Muses on the fact that, though all the usual processes are to the fore, the downside part of the industry is garment making which is the least developed side. Posits that the manufacture of clothing needs to become more technologically advanced as does retailing. Closes by emphasising support for the community in all its efforts.
International textile and clothing research register
Authors: Stylios George K.
Published: June 2007

Examines the eleventh published year of the ITCRR. Runs the whole gamut of textile innovation, research and testing, some of which investigates hitherto untouched aspects. Subjects discussed include cotton fabric processing, asbestos substitutes, textile adjuncts to cardiovascular surgery, wet textile processes, hand evaluation, nanotechnology, thermoplastic composites, robotic ironing, protective clothing (agricultural and industrial), ecological aspects of fibre properties – to name but a few! There would appear to be no limit to the future potential for textile applications.
A minimisation algorithm with application to optimal design of reinforcements in textiles and garments
Authors: Šomodi Željko , Hursa Anica , Rogale Dubravko
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an efficient two‐variable minimisation algorithm and to apply it in engineering optimisation of buttonhole reinforcements.

Design/methodology/approach

An iterative extreme search is based on quadratic approximation of objective function, locating approximate solution at the minimum of corresponding elliptic paraboloid. Stress analysis is performed using plane stress finite element model. Optimal selection of geometrical parameters of buttonhole‐type reinforcement is done in terms of balance between maximum stress and material consumption.

Findings

Adopted minimisation algorithm is assessed in a selected test example and proven to perform well in comparison with methods available in literature. In the selected case two local minima have been found within the predefined optimisation domain, with slight difference in objective function values.

Research limitations/implications

Research is limited to homogeneous isotropic elastic model and a single representative load case. Objective function is restricted to two influence factors and predefined optimisation domain.

Practical implications

The method can be useful for engineers/practitioners in the branch of clothing technology as a tool for computational estimate of optimal design of structural reinforcements.

Originality/value

The main quality of the paper is in software fusion of finite element analysis and advanced optimisation algorithm. The proposed theoretical‐numerical model is discussed in terms of applicability in parameter setting on buttonholer in garment production.
Image analysis method of surface roughness evaluation
Authors: Militký Jirˇí , Mazal Miroslav
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The main aim of this paper is description of new apparatus and approach for contact less evaluation of surface roughness. For characterization of surface roughness, the procedures based on classical and non‐classical (complexity) parameters are proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

For obtaining the roughness profile in the selected direction (on the line transect of the surface), the special arrangements of textile bend around sharp edge is used. The image analysis is used for extraction of surface profile. The system of controlled movement allows one to obtain surface roughness profile in two dimensions.

Findings

By using aggregation (cut length principle), the roughness resolution is decreased and roughness profile is created without local roughness variation. After application of cut length principle, the direct combination of slices leads to the creation of roughness surface.

Research limitations/implications

There exists plenty of roughness characteristics based on standard statistics or analysis of spatial processes. For evaluation of suitability of these characteristics, it will be necessary to compare results from sets of textile surfaces.

Practical implications

The measurement of fabric roughness by an RCM device is useful as simple tool for description of roughness in individual slices and in the whole rough plane. This method replaces the traditional contact stylus profiling methods

Originality/value

The reconstruction of surface roughness from individual slices. The utilization of aggregation principle for creation of micro and macro roughness. The evaluation of roughness parameters based on the geometrical characteristics, harmonic analysis and complexity indices.
Investigation of the strength of ultrasonically welded sails
Authors: Vujasinović Edita , Janković Zeljka , Dragčević Zvonko , Petrunić Igor , Rogale Dubravko
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Today when the newest high‐tech fibers and sophisticated material constructions are used for the production of sails, forming 3D sail shape from 2D sailcloth has still remained very primitive because classic sewing techniques are mostly used. Since, the clothing and technical textile industry has been recently using some of contemporary joining techniques (ultrasonic, thermal, high‐frequency) replacing classic sewing, this paper seeks to investigate the possibility of ultrasonic welding in the production of sails, and the strength of obtained bonds.

Design/methodology/approach

Concerning the aim, sails were made employing the classic and modern (ultrasonic) joining technique whereby bonding parameters such as amplitude and welding speed, geometry of anvil wheels were varied. Objective quality evaluation of the bond made in such a way, was performed in order to be more exact about its strength.

Findings

Based on the obtained results it has been concluded that ultrasonic welding may successfully replace the classic sewing of sails, selecting an anvil wheel with suitable engraving and optimal parameters of welding (speed and amplitude).

Practical implications

Selection of optimal welding parameters not only increases the sail's bond strength in comparison with classic seam, but also provides sail air impermeability, being one of the basic aerodynamic requirements for sail making.

Originality/value

This paper has presented the novel and successful approach in 3D sail shape forming from 2D sailcloth.
New measuring device for estimating the pressure under compression garments
Authors: Maklewska Elzbieta , Nawrocki Andrzej , Kowalski Krzysztof , Andrzejewska Ewa , Kuzański Wojciech
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to describe new measuring device designed for measuring the pressure exerted by textile products used in healing therapy of hypertrophic scars. The testing device called “Textilpress” has been used for verification of the usually used method of designing and manufacturing ready‐made compression garment products.

Design/methodology/approach

The pressure measurement, realized by use of the “Textilpress” device, is an indirect measuring method, which is based on the Laplace Law. The investigations described in this paper concern the pressure measuring under textile bands placed on the models representing selected parts of the human body with pre‐set circumferences. For this purpose, rigid cylinders were prepared, covered by a layer of neoprene which simulated the susceptibility of human skin.

Findings

The investigations described in this paper indicate that the “Textilpress” test‐device may be used for pressure measuring exerted by compression bands on the cylinder surface. In order to estimate the pressure exerted on a particular body part with the shape close to a cylinder, a measurement should be carried out on a cylinder with a circumference similar to that of the selected part of the human body.

Research limitations/implications

The “Textilpress” test‐device may be used by the manufacturers for measuring pressures exerted by compression bands (manufactured from knitted fabrics) on the cylinder surface of a pre‐set diameter. In order to estimate the pressure exerted on a particular body part with the shape close to a cylinder, a measurement should be carried out on a cylinder with a circumference similar to that of the selected part of the human body.

Originality/value

As hospitals do not possess appropriate measuring devices, which would enable one to measure the pressure on the scar exerted by the textile garment, the pressure efficiency and the appropriate fittings are estimated subjectively for the particular case. The “Textilpress” device enables monitoring such pressure.