bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food policy in Bangladesh 2010: impacts of domestic wheat productivity growth
Authors: Kamruzzaman Mohd. , Manos Basil , Psychoudakis A. , Martika M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to estimate wheat productivity in Bangladesh and forecast the future expected population and food requirements in the country by 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reaches the objectives using total factors productivity approach, Box Jenkins approach, and sensitivity analysis for wheat farms in the country. The study used data on wheat during 1972‐2002.

Findings

In the existing situation, the national average level wheat yield was 1.9 MT/ha that was lower than any other stations. The reasons are late sowing, coupled with lack of seed quality, excess moisture at sowing, lack of fertilizer at reasonable price and timeliness at the farmers' level, and lack of capital. The total productivity grew at an average annual rate of 1.35 percent.

Practical implications

The results show that the Bangladeshi government could increase the domestic wheat supply by 56.84, 115.79, 247.37, and 321.58 percent depending, respectively, on the applied model I‐IV, that is much higher than the existing level of production.

Originality/value

This paper brings together diverse views and fusing them together providing a future path for research and taking suitable policy for wheat production to meet the demand for food.
Causality between agriculture and economic growth in a small nation under political isolation
Authors: Turan Katircioglu Salih
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyze the impact of agricultural sector on the economy of North Cyprus, which suffers from political problems and drought over the years.

Design/methodology/approach

Annual data covering 1975‐2002 period has been used to find the direction of causality in Granger sense between agricultural growth and economic growth after employing unit root tests to see if the variables under consideration are stationary.

Findings

Results of the present study first suggest that agricultural output growth and economic growth as measured by real gross domestic product growth are stationary at their levels, thus, they are naturally co‐integrated. They are in long run equilibrium relationship. And secondly, there is feedback relationship between these variables that indicates bidirectional causation among them in the long run period.

Research limitations/implications

A more expanded data can be used for further comparison. Furthermore, a future study can be done for other islands to make comparison across themselves.

Practical implications

This study has shown that although North Cyprus suffers from political problems and drought in the agriculture sector, this sector still has an impact on the economy. Thus, effective policies related with this sector should be developed by authorities. Building pipelines from Turkey, which are at the agenda of North Cyprus and Turkish governments over the years should immediately put into action. This will have enormous impact on both sides of the island on the way to a solution in Cyprus problem.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind which analyzes the relationship between agricultural output and economic growth in a small island which has a closed economy and is politically non‐recognized state. Furthermore, it is a rare study made for small islands.
Portfolio optimisation under changing risk via time‐varying beta
Authors: Bramante Riccardo , Gabbi Giampaolo
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper is aimed at modelling time varying betas via a state space representation in order to decompose the marginal contribution to risk of downside and upside deviations of asset returns in portfolio optimisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach enables to take into account the relationship between risk and excess returns in up‐side and down‐side markets and to arrange a flexible asset allocation model which directly incorporates the investor risk tolerance to positive or negative expected market moves. The model volatility through state space models and the Kalman filter, widely used to recursively and optimally estimate time varying betas.

Findings

The study shows that the application of an asset allocation model which splits beta in two parts, one related to Bear and the other to Bull markets, and reconciles them with a non negative risk aversion parameter may produce interesting financial results if compared with typical passive portfolios. The proposed model was tested by conducting extensive empirical evaluations on a set securities belonging to eight different markets. The outcomes show that active strategies can be developed and can lead to better performances.

Research implications

The research affects optimisation models in particular considering the volatility indicators usually estimated not only by researchers but also by practitioners.

Originality/value

In financial literature we find empirical evidence that the constant beta model may be inaccurate and hazardous to use in asset allocation decisions and many statistical techniques have been developed to estimate time dependent betas. Rolling regression procedures allow to capture beta dynamics but require the definition of the estimation period. The paper provides an empirical analysis referred both to European and American market data which let us to allocate assets avoiding the usual limits of standard volatility indicators.
Relationship value and relationship quality
Authors: Ulaga Wolfgang , Eggert Andreas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Established models of buyer‐seller relationships do not reflect managerial emphasis on supplier performance evaluation when modelling business relationships. Proposes that relationship value should be included as a key constituent in such models. Aims to explore the construct's links with key constituents of relationship quality, i.e. commitment, satisfaction, and trust.

Design/methodology/approach

A two‐stage research design was used. First, depth‐interviews were conducted with ten senior‐level purchasing managers in US manufacturing companies. Second, data were gathered in a nation‐wide mail survey among 400 purchasing professionals.

Findings

The findings suggest that relationship value is an antecedent to relationship quality and behavioural outcomes in the nomological network of relationship marketing. Value displays a stronger impact on satisfaction than on commitment and trust. Value also directly impacts a customer's intention to expand business with a supplier. In turn, its impact on the propensity to leave a relationship is mediated by relationship quality. Contrary to previous research, trust does not appear in this study as an antecedent of behavioural outcomes, but as a mediator of the satisfaction‐commitment link.

Research limitations/implications

Confirms the role of value as a key relationship building‐block. Researchers should integrate this cognitive performance‐based construct in models of business relationships. Limitations and research directions refer to the sampling procedure, the need to include the supplier's value perceptions, the possibility of conducting longitudinal research, and the opportunity to assess additional moderating variables.

Practical implications

When the goal is to increase business with an existing customer, managers should focus on relationship value. In turn, when managers are concerned with the risk of customers leaving a relationship, they should focus on relationship quality. Trust appears as an important ingredient in stabilising existing business relationships.

Originality/value

Stresses the pivotal role of relationship value in marketing. Contributes to a better fit between relationship marketing models and managerial practice in business markets.
Measuring relational norms: some methodological issues
Authors: Blois Keith J. , Ivens Bjoern S.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper sets out to examine the validity of Kaufmann and Stern's operationalisation of Macneil's norm theory which they used when creating a set of scales to evaluate the degree of relationality in business‐to‐business (B2B) exchanges. The scales that Kaufmann and Stern developed to measure norms in B2B relationships have been used either directly or with limited adaptation in a large number of papers.

Design/methodology/approach

Macneil's work was evaluated and a new set of scales developed and an experiment was carried out to determine whether or not these scales discriminated between relational and discrete exchanges more effectively than Kaufmann and Stern's scales.

Findings

The experiment demonstrated that the new scales discriminated more effectively between relational and discrete exchanges than Kaufmann and Stern's scales.

Research limitations/implications

The experiment would ideally have been run using experienced managers rather than students as respondents. However, the advantage of using students was that it was possible to create two groups whose members had attended an identical course on B2B relationship marketing.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the importance, when conducting research that uses prior studies, of critically assessing prior theorising and research. The paper questions the validity of Kaufmann and Stern's scales. These scales have, since 1988, been the foundation of a substantial body of research into B2B relationships.
Conceptualising, delineating and analysing business networks
Authors: Prenkert Frans , Hallén Lars
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore possible contributions to the development of models to define business networks conceptually, and identify and delineate them empirically by integrating concepts and ideas from “market exchange theory” originating in the works of Alderson.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a conceptual discussion defining business networks as a type of exchange system, empirical data were used to exemplify and illustrate the theoretical development ideas. From data on 22 business firms collected in 1999‐2001 in the form of transcribed interviews and other print documentation, a business network as a type of exchange system was identified comprising five business entities. This case serves as illustration to the remainder of the theoretical discussions throughout the paper.

Findings

Based on a conceptualisation of business networks as a type of exchange system and a notion of interaction encompassing exchange processes stemming from both market exchange theory and social exchange theory, it is suggested that business networks can be more consistently identified and delineated empirically using this theoretical base.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical case is merely illustrative, and more extensive empirical work is needed to further test the ideas of business networks as a type of exchange system. The implications to the study of markets‐as‐networks are that these ideas can be used as a basis for identification, delineation and analysis of business networks.

Originality/value

This paper extends Alderson's work by suggesting a fourth type of transformation: transformation in ownership, as well as by developing a typology with five resource types in the exchange system. Furthermore, it provides a conceptual tool that can be used by researchers to identify, delineate and analyse business networks and incorporates market exchange theory.
Network pictures: concepts and representations
Authors: Henneberg Stephan C. , Mouzas Stefanos , Naudé Pete
Published: July 2006

Purpose

There has recently been an increase in interest in the notion of “network pictures” amongst researchers in the field of business‐to‐business marketing. Network pictures are managers' subjective mental representations of their relevant business environment. They are posited to work as “sense‐making” devices, and consequently shape managerial decisions, actions, and evaluations. However, while interest in this concept has been reported in a range of literature that is here identified and discussed, there has been no attempt to rigorously conceptualise the underlying dimensions of such pictures. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive review of previous work, this study proposes a parsimonious set of interrelated dimensions, and initially tests this approach.

Findings

This article shows the model's face validity, but also argues that not all dimensions are perceived as being equally useful: utilisation of the different dimensions is determined more by what it is that managers wish to represent.

Research limitations/implications

The implications of the concept of network pictures, as well as further research propositions, are discussed.

Originality/value

As researchers develop their interest in network pictures, so one needs to develop one's understanding of what their underlying dimensions are. A parsimonious set of such dimensions is developed and tested.
Human resource development, social capital, emotional intelligence
Authors: Brooks Kit , Muyia Nafukho Fredrick
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This article aims to offer a theoretical framework that attempts to show the integration among human resource development (HRD), social capital (SC), emotional intelligence (EI) and organizational productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature search included the following: a computerized search of accessible and available material using the key words “human resource development”, “emotional intelligence”, “social capital”, “human capital”, “organizational productivity”, “productivity”, and “organizational performance”.

Findings

The literature review provides evidence that it is logical to assume that the relationship among HRD, social capital, emotional and organization productivity is highly integrated. This finding influenced the authors to conceptualize an integrated model that illustrates the interconnectivity of HRD, social capital, emotional intelligence and organizational productivity with internal and external environmental factors.

Research limitations/implications

The integrated model conceptualizing the dynamic relationship among HRD, social capital, emotional intelligence and organization productivity is based primarily on the review of the literature.

Originality/value

The integrated model developed by the authors provides a framework that HRD scholars and practitioners may use to develop innovative instruments to measure the relationship among HRD, EI and SC and their subsequent impact on organization performance.
Performance scripts creation: processes and applications
Authors: Lyons Paul
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Seeks to explain some of the dynamics of scripts creation as used in training, to offer some theoretical underpinning regarding the influence of script creation on behavior and performance, and to offer some examples of how script creation is applied in training activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains in detail and demonstrates the general processes of script creation for training uses. The design of the paper is to present, in sequence, a generalized script creation process, the theoretical grounding of the processes, and evidence of the efficacy of script creation.

Findings

While there is not a lot of research available to practitioners about script creation uses in training, the research that does exist gives credible support for script creation applications. There is a body of research in cognition and cognitive processes that tangentially treats script behavior; however, that body of research is highly technical and esoteric and not of practical value to most practitioners.

Practical implications

The script creation processes and supporting information give practitioners a considered view of some useful training applications and generally add to the toolbox of trainers and facilitators. A sequence of events is offered that may be tailored for a specific training application. The script creation process, in general, offers a model for trainers to consider in applications such as exploration of new skills, skills improvement, continuous performance improvement and change initiatives, among others. The basis of the process explained in this paper is firmly grounded in motivation theory that describes how the process is attractive to employees.

Originality/value

As far as the author knows, there is no generally available model or template for script creation activities in a training context. This paper helps to address the matter. Of value to practitioners and managers is the explication of a general, malleable model for training activities that is grounded on sound learning and motivation theory.
Properties of sensorless control systems based on multiscalar models of the induction motor
Authors: Krzemiński Zbigniew , Lewicki Arkadiusz , Włas Mirosław
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To develop general forms of multiscalar models of the induction motor and to present properties of the sensorless control systems based on such models.

Design/methodology/approach

Previously presented multiscalar model of the induction motor based on a stator current and rotor flux vector is generalized as a model of type 1. New model of type 2 is defined for stator current and the vector which is directly controlled by a voltage vector. The above models are applied in a sensorless control system with speed observer. Dynamical properties of the sensorless control systems are investigated by simulations and experiments.

Findings

Application of the multiscalar model of type 2 results in higher exactness of sensorless control system than application of the multiscalar model of type 1. Controlled variables are more smooth in transients.

Research limitations/implications

This is not an analytical proof of stability of the control systems.

Practical implications

Provides very useful information for development of sensorless control systems for the induction motor.

Originality/value

This paper extends the known method of nonlinear control of the induction motor to the general form. It is possible to choose the sensorless control system of better properties than those used so far.
A cybernetic re‐evaluation of socio‐economic development programs
Authors: Espinosa A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explore the usefulness of the cybernetic approach to support development programs by offering a theoretical framework that helps us to re‐understand development and measuring systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a summary of Beer's theory for organisational development and measuring systems, shows examples of application in design and implementation of socio‐economic development programs in Colombia, and uses them to explore the usefulness of the approach in this field.

Findings

Analysis of the reported examples shows a clear indication of the usefulness of Beer's approach to design and measure development programs. It reveals an important field for applied research that could benefit from further applications of the approach.

Research limitations/implications

The experiences analysed here showed the strength or alliances between government, universities and development agencies, for applied research. It makes clear that more long‐term oriented projects are required to fully implement innovative approaches like the one described.

Practical implications

Applying a cybernetic approach in this field implies changing from top‐down to bottom‐up design; wider involvement of stakeholders to agree on critical measurements; changes from emphasis in technological and managerial improvements, to improvements in learning and self‐control tools for the developing communities.

Originality/value

Even if there has been agreement on the convenience of experimenting with more holistic approaches to socio‐economic development, few researchers show the potential of the cybernetic approach, as this paper does.
Identity: the paradoxical nature of organizational closure
Authors: Hoebeke Luc
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the concept of organizational closure as developed by Stafford Beer in his viable systems model, defined as System 5.

Design/methodology/approach

The author refers to his experiences of multi‐stakeholder platforms and confronts them with the original texts of Stafford Beer. He takes the stance of a reflective practitioner.

Findings

The identity function, defined as organizational closure, only can be embodied at the boundary of a system, defined by an observer. Identities are not essential characteristics but changing attributions by different observers. Multiple identities are the norm.

Practical implications

The author develops the required characteristics of representatives participating in the organizational closure or System 5 activities.

Originality/value

The author gives an alternative way of thinking about identity different from the mainstream essentialist way of defining identity. He explores the consequences of this way of thinking for governance and governing bodies. He clarifies in this way the fundamental tension between participative and representative democracy.
Momentum and control: a dynamic of democracy
Authors: Leonard Allenna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how the application of cybernetic principles to governance and democracy shows dangerous gaps in control due to a lack of appreciation of momentum, requisite variety and scale.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper with examples drawn from the news. Beer's Viable System Model and Ashby's Law of Requisite Variety underpin the arguments.

Findings

The workings of our democracies depend on nineteenth century concepts and are easily overwhelmed by lags, distortions and problems that interfere with a level of feedback that would enable effective control. The elective process, the regulatory process, the boundaries between public and private spheres of action and the threat to our common viability share similar difficulties balancing changing circumstances with limitations on the means to address them. Although some of these issues have been noted before, there has been little appreciation of their interconnection and the consequences of a political system whose dynamics counteract its ideals.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for more research into the problems identified here and how they relate for governance to be effective when the pace of events is rapid. A plea is made for sufficient resources to be devoted to the task.

Practical implications

These are problems we must solve if our societies are to remain viable. Our knowledge in the systems and cybernetics communities could help – but it must be used and it will not be used effectively until it is more widely known and applied.

Originality/value

Most current political analysis deals with the problems discussed in piecemeal fashion if it deals with them at all. Drawing a boundary around the situation that is wide enough to include these interconnected issues is needed for effective corrective measures to be applied.
Nonylphenyl methacrylate modified bisphenol‐a‐glycidyl dimethacrylate(BisGMA) networks
Authors: Behera D. , Satapathy H. , Banthia A.K.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of a reactive diluent, nonylphenyl methacrylate (NPM) for toughness improvement of bisphenol‐a‐glycidyl dimethacrylate (BisGMA) and to optimise the results of such a modification.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve desirable rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA/NPM network, various compositions were made by incorporating different concentrations of NPM. The effect of concentration on the impact and the adhesive strengths of the unmodified and modified BisGMA networks were characterised.

Findings

The modification of BisGMA resin using NPM showed significant enhancement of the impact and the adhesive strengths over the unmodified one. The modification caused a chemical linkage between NPM and BisGMA resin, which led not only to a phase separation but also to establishing the intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the NPM phase/resin matrix interphase, which was responsible for the improvement of the impact and adhesive strength. The optimum results were obtained at 10/h (parts per 100 parts of BisGMA resin) of modifier.

Research limitations/implications

The reactive diluent, used in the present context was synthesised from nonyl phenol, methacrylic acid and benzoyl chloride in methyl ethyl ketone using triethylamine as base.

Practical implications

The method of modification developed provides a simple and practical solution for improving the rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA network.

Originality/value

The method developed is a novel one for enhancing the rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA network diluted with NPM resin and may find numerous applications in surface coating and adhesive.
Leveraging resources in a library gateway
Authors: Caswell Jerry V.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to describe a new use of technology to improve users' access to electronic resources.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes the use of guided searches in a library gateway to shorten the pathway to information for library users.

Findings

Guided search forms can be constructed for both databases and catalogs using HTML and JavaScript. They are a useful alternative to vendor‐provided search interfaces, especially for inexperienced users.

Research limitations/implications

This paper focuses on the technical issues involved in creating guided searches. It does not address usability testing and a detailed comparison of effectiveness with vendor‐provided interfaces.

Practical implications

Working with tools already in hand libraries can improve the accessibility of electronic resources by crafting simpler user interfaces.

Originality/value

The paper shows libraries how they can leverage their investment in databases and the catalog not only to make them more useful to their user communities, but to bring them more in tune with the expectations of users who have grown up with the web.
Beyond HTML
Authors: Goans Doug , Leach Guy , Vogel Teri M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To report on the content management system designed to manage the 30 web‐based research guides developed by the subject liaison librarians at the Georgia State University Library.

Design/methodology/approach

The web development librarian, with assistance from the web programmer, designed a system using MySQL and ASP. A liaison team gave input on the system through rigorous testing and assisted with the design of the templates that control the layout of the content on the guides. A usability study and two surveys were also completed.

Findings

The new system met and exceeded the baseline expectations for content collection and management, offering a greater control over appearance and navigation while still offering customization features for liaisons. Improvements are planned for the templates in addition to better promotion of the guides on the library web site. Initial and ongoing training for the liaisons should have been more effectively addressed. Despite their observed and future potential advantages, the CMS model has not been universally adopted by academic libraries.

Practical implications

Regardless of the technology involved, libraries preparing for a CMS transition must give at least as much attention to user issues as they do to technical issues, from the organizational buy‐in and comprehensive training to internal/external usability.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to a small but growing collection of CMS case studies. It covers the technical, functional, and managerial developments of a CMS, while also addressing the practical user factors that sometimes get lost in the process.
CMS/CMS: content management system/change management strategies
Authors: Goodwin Susan , Burford Nancy , Bedard Martha , Carrigan Esther , Hannigan Gale C.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Five web sites, five libraries, numerous departmental pages and thousands of pages of content explained, in part, why users found library resources difficult to navigate. Web redesign became a strategic initiative in 2001 and state funding enabled the purchase of a content management system (CMS). The purpose of this paper is to describe the systematic implementation of a CMS at Texas A&M Libraries

Design/methodology/approach

The web implementation team (WIT) was formed to include a diverse group of people from all areas of the library and charged with responsibility for the overall management of the University Libraries' web site.

Practical implications

Using a CMS to create the library's web presence is an important and expensive undertaking that requires coordinated management oversight. It also presents opportunities to reconsider the library's organizational structure and culture.

Originality/value

This paper describes a management strategy that involves all areas of the organization, encourages teamwork, promotes innovation, and stays focused on organizational priorities. It discusses expected and unexpected consequences of implementing a CMS, and makes recommendations about CMS management in general.
Untangling a tangled web: a case study in choosing and implementing a CMS
Authors: Huttenlock Terry L. , Beaird Jeff W. , Fordham Ronald W.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present a case study of a library systems department's experience in choosing and implementing a content management system. By sharing this process others may be helped as they look for solutions and face similar situations.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective case study was chosen because it allowed the systems department to tell their story by reflecting on what had happened over the past two years. This is also a self study as the writers of the story are also the ones who experienced the events.

Findings

The article provides a detailed account of choosing and implementing a CMS including insight into decisions, issues, and processes. The broad issues of usability, that usability is individualistic and task oriented, is portrayed. The hard work and difficulties involved in this type of project, especially for a small library, is recognized.

Research limitations/implications

As this is one department's experiences, it is not necessarily generalizable to other CMS projects or other libraries.

Practical implications

Sharing experiences can give insight and guidelines to those who are contemplating similar decisions/implementations.

Originality/value

This paper offers practical advice and reflective insights based on an actual experience.
New Gadgets on the Horizon
Authors: Riggs Colby
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to review some new technology “gadgets”.

Design/methodology/approach

A review with descriptions of new technologies which might impact library services.

Findings

The proliferation of computer technology has ensured that gadgets play a significant role in our daily routines. They are used at work, home and during playtime. The gadgets range from mouse devices, keyboards, headsets, camera accessories and more.

Originality/value

Provides descriptions of some gadgets of value to information seekers.
Part I: Seigniorage of fiat money and the maqasid al‐Shari’ah: the unattainableness of the maqasid
Authors: Kameel Mydin Meera Ahamed , Larbani Moussa
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To reason whether the interest‐based fiat monetary system is compatible with the objectives of the Islamic law or the Shariah.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a theoretical paper that uses the quantity theory of money and the objectives or maqasid al‐Shariah as expounded by scholars as basis for logical deductions therefrom.

Findings

The socio‐economic implications of fiat monetary system imply that the maqasid al‐Shariah cannot be attained. Indeed, the system is likely to cause a move away from the maqasid.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based primarily on theoretical deductions. Further empirical investigation would shed further light.

Practical implications

Practical implications are numerous. The definition of what is money is then crucial to address the socio‐economic implications caused by the fiat monetary system. For Islamic economics, this would imply that the process of Islamization of knowledge/disciplines is futile without addressing this issue first. Accordingly, the establishment of Islamic economics, banking and finance warrants a serious look into the current definition of money and monetary systems.

Originality/value

It calls for a definition of Shariah‐compatible money. This is beneficial to the researchers, proponents and practitioners of Islamic economics, banking and finance.
The nature, role and impact of connected relations: a comparison of European and Chinese suppliers' perspectives
Authors: Wiley James , Wilkinson Ian , Young Louise
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The objective is to review theories of the impact of network relations and present empirical evidence on their nature and impacts. Among the questions addressed are: Who initiates network relations? Which ones are important and why? and What is the nature of the affects in important relationships?

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis is based on the IMP2 omnibus survey of international B2B business relations, specifically Swedish, German and Chinese firms.

Findings

While there are some differences between countries, contrary to conventional wisdom, no evidence can be found that Chinese firms differ from European firms on the above questions.

Research limitations/implications

China is rapidly evolving a market‐based economy and its firms increasingly interact with foreign customers and suppliers. It is to be expected in particular that Chinese responses to the questions regarding network relations will evolve. An implication is that studies of this sort should be periodically repeated over the next decade.

Practical implications

The results imply that Chinese and European firms characterize their relationships with important customers using largely the same factors and that the perceived importance of these factors largely is the same.

Originality/value

The survey reflects the conceptual structure of the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) Group. The IMP2 database is one of the largest omnibus, cross‐national surveys that collects information of B2B relationships.
Planned and spontaneous orders in the emerging network society
Authors: Tikkanen Henrikki , Parvinen Petri M.T.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the emergence of the network society from the perspective of planned and spontaneous order.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual analysis based on extensive familiarization with literature.

Findings

The network society does not increase either planned or spontaneous ordering of economic activity, but their interplay.

Research limitations/implications

The paper produces a number of research implications at global, industry, relationship and firms levels of analysis.

Practical implications

Businesses should craft practical strategies and policies on the assumption of constant change, build networking capabilities and be reactive to discontinuities in technologies and business models.

Originality/value

The paper is a unique multi‐level account of the impact of the network society on the type of economic ordering it creates.
Negotiation: the Chinese style
Authors: Fang Tony
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine the nature of Chinese business negotiating style in Sino‐Western business negotiations in business‐to‐business markets involving large industrial projects from a social cultural point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual approach developed from personal interviews.

Findings

This study reveals that the Chinese negotiator does not possess an absolute negotiating style but rather embraces a mixture of different roles together: “Maoist bureaucrat in learning”, “Confucian gentleman”, and “Sun Tzu‐like strategist”. The Chinese negotiating strategy is essentially a combination of cooperation and competition (termed as the “coop‐comp” negotiation strategy in this study). Trust is the ultimate indicator of Chinese negotiating propensities and role choices.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of this study is on Chinese negotiating style shown in large B2B negotiations with Chinese SOEs.

Originality/value

Differing from most other studies on Chinese negotiating style which tend to depict the Chinese negotiator as either sincere or deceptive, this study points out that there exists an intrinsic paradox in Chinese negotiating style which reflects the Yin Yang thinking. The Chinese negotiator has a cultural capacity to negotiate both sincerely and deceptively and he/she changes coping strategies according to situation and context, all depending on the level of trust between negotiating partners.
Customer satisfaction in the restaurant industry: an examination of the transaction‐specific model
Authors: Saad Andaleeb Syed , Conway Carolyn
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To determine the factors that explain customer satisfaction in the full service restaurant industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary research and qualitative interviews were used to build the model of customer satisfaction. A structured questionnaire was employed to gather data and test the model. Sampling involved a random selection of addresses from the telephone book and was supplemented by respondents selected on the basis of judgment sampling. Factor analysis and multiple regression were used to test the model.

Findings

The regression model suggested that customer satisfaction was influenced most by responsiveness of the frontline employees, followed by price and food quality (in that order). Physical design and appearance of the restaurant did not have a significant effect.

Research limitations/implications

To explain customer satisfaction better, it may be important to look at additional factors or seek better measures of the constructs. For example, the measures of food quality may not have captured the complexity and variety of this construct. It may also be important to address the issue of why customers visit restaurants. Instead of the meal, business transactions or enjoying the cherished company of others may be more important. Under the circumstances, customer satisfaction factors may be different. The results are also not generalizable as the sampled area may have different requirements from restaurants.

Practical implications

Full service restaurants should focus on three elements – service quality (responsiveness), price, and food quality (reliability) – if customer satisfaction is to be treated as a strategic variable.

Originality/value

The study tests the transaction‐specific model and enhances the literature on restaurant service management.
Marketing financial services to Hispanic American consumers: a portfolio‐centric analysis
Authors: Stevenson Thomas H. , Plath D. Anthony
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide financial service marketers with information useful in targeting and marketing financial services to Hispanic American consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

It profiles the changing demographics of the Hispanic American financial services market and, utilizing data from the Survey of Consumer Finances, tests three hypotheses to compare financial service consumption patterns of Hispanics with those of non‐Hispanic whites.

Findings

The paper shows that the Hispanic American segment has grown in size and importance over the last decade, but that Hispanics differ markedly from their non‐Hispanic White counterparts in terms of financial product preferences and investment asset portfolio composition. Further, Hispanic Americans trail their non‐Hispanic White counterparts in terms of breadth and depth of financial holdings, particularly in the area of more risky but historically higher return asset categories.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the results of financial decisions at one point in time. Future research could involve primary studies to determine whether, financial consumption behavior changes in Hispanics over time, as they become more acculturated, and why Hispanics favor liquid short‐term assets to more risky, but potentially higher returning, longer‐term instruments.

Originality/value

The article provides value to financial service providers by highlighting opportunities in the Hispanic American market and offering suggestions for more effectively marketing to the Hispanic community. Among the suggestions are recognizing and reflecting the importance of emotional positioning in financial services promotion, employing both Spanish and English language communications, and sponsoring Hispanic community‐based programs to build brand awareness and loyalty.
Three perspectives on service management and marketing: rival logics or part of a bigger picture?
Authors: Ballantyne David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To locate the underlying service logic of each of three leading texts and to examine points of variance.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical review and comparative analysis of the main tenets of each text.

Findings

Each text combines a service perspective and a relationship perspective to marketing management. Each author seems to favour a service perspective on some issues but at other times a relationship perspective. This apparent epistemological pluralism is resolvable and a pathway to synthesis suggested.

Practical implications

What stands out in a critical reading of these texts is the provocation offered to readers to go beyond the limits of services marketing orthodoxy. In this there are implications for pedagogical development.

Originality/value

Gives insights into the current debate on development of a more broadly based service‐dominant logic of marketing.
Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
Authors: Muema Kavulya Joseph
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya.

Findings

This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent.

Originality/value

The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
International students' decision‐making process
Authors: María Cubillo José , Sánchez Joaquín , Cerviño Julio
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical model that integrates the different groups of factors which influence the decision‐making process of international students, analysing different dimensions of this process and explaining those factors which determine students' choice.

Design/methodology/approach

A hypothetical model is presented which shows the purchase intention as an independent variable dependent on five factors: personal reasons; the effect of country image, influenced by city image; institution image; and the evaluation of the programme of study. The consideration, whether conscious or unconscious on the part of the prospective student, of the different elements making up the factors included in this study will determine the final choice made by that student.

Findings

The limitations of this study stem from the nature of the study itself. As a theoretical model, it aims to integrate the factors identified in the existing literature. Thus, future research must try to examine the existing relationships among the aforementioned factors. In particular, it must analyse the weight of each factor on the purchase intention, and the relative importance of each element for the factor it belongs to. Therefore, determining the relative importance of each element and factor would constitute an important source of information for future work in international marketing.

Originality/value

There are few studies which try to tackle the decision‐making process of the prospective international student from an integrated point of view. This paper contributes to bridging that gap.
Mind sets and methods: poverty strategies and the awkward potential of the enabling state
Authors: Curtis Donald
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This purpose of this conceptual paper is to provide a framework for understanding anti‐poverty strategies in public policy when effective, enabling, governance is recognised to be the outcome of multiple agencies (public, civil society and private).

Design/methodology/approach

Cultural theory – providing the methodological approach – suggests that individualist, hierarchical and group biases underlie market thinking, bureaucratic thinking and the thinking of civil society institutions and are, in essence, incompatible. Each kind of thinking can be linked to ideologies of development (or “modernisation”) yet enabling strategies (and New Labour's “Third Way”) require state, market and civil society to work collaboratively, across boundaries.

Findings

The main finding is that the interface between types of organisation will always be awkward; the point at which transaction costs mount up and “partnerships” falter.

Practical implications

For central agencies the practical implication is that an enabling role requires an understanding of other mind sets or, failing that, a willingness to find a standard, pre‐negotiated hybrid formula that works, as evident in some well‐known instances of developing country programmes or projects that depend upon effective links between “incompatible” systems.

Originality/value

For both public policy strategists and practitioners the paper may throw new light on age‐old problems in poverty alleviation and public policy implementation.
Getting in, getting on and getting out: reflections on a qualitative research project
Authors: Irvine Helen , Gaffikin Michael
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to provide a behind‐the‐scenes view of how a qualitative research project was conducted. It is therefore a paper about the process of qualitative research from the point of view of a researcher, rather than a qualitative research paper about an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Its approach is both theoretical and reflective rather than a description or analysis of what went on in the organization.

Findings

Because the focus of the paper is personal rather than organizational, it does not offer “findings” about the way in which accounting is practised, but rather reflections and insights about the way research was conducted, from getting into the organization (getting in), conducting the research (getting on) and finally exiting the organization (getting out).

Research limitations/implications

Even though this paper represents the reflections of one researcher conducting a qualitative study in one unique organization, the experiences shared emphasize the need for flexibility, reflection and reflexivity in any qualitative research project.

Practical implications

The intention of the authors is that this paper should be informative, but they do not view it as a manual of practice. It is hoped that it may help to prepare new researchers for what they may face as they conduct a qualitative research project, while at the same time providing resonances for experienced researchers.

Originality/value

While much qualitative research has been undertaken within the discipline of accounting, little or no attention has been paid to the way in which that research has been conducted. This paper addresses that gap, in the hope that it will enlighten both experienced and new qualitative researchers.