bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professional development and management training needs for heads of department in UK secondary schools
Authors: Brown Marie , Boyle Bill , Boyle Trudy
Published: January 2007

Reviews current thinking about the professional development and management training needs of heads of department in secondary schools and argues for the inadequacy of some of the “front‐end” models of professional development and training currently in use. The results of a survey of 21 schools in the UK showed that, although the assumption is often held that heads of department are appointed because they already possess the knowledge and skills to undertake the role effectively, this is not always the case. The plethora of training needs identified conveys a sense of frustration of most of the interviewees with their lack of opportunity to contribute effectively to whole‐school decision‐making and development planning. Argues for the possibility of developing more appropriate forms of professional development and training which would incorporate the notions of school‐based research and collegial reflective practice within learning organisations.
Team heterogeneity and its relationship with team support and team effectiveness
Authors: Drach‐Zahavy Anat , Somech Anit
Published: January 2007

Explores the origins of school‐staff team effectiveness by focusing on team characteristics, especially on team heterogeneity and team support. Based on educational and organizational theory, we derived propositions about how heterogeneity may affect team support and team effectiveness. More specifically, we hypothesized that task‐related attributes of heterogeneity (functional, educational, and team tenure) would relate positively to team support and team effectiveness, whereas relations‐related attributes would relate negatively to team support and team effectiveness. With a sample of 48 teams, identified as intact work teams, we found results partially confirming our propositions. Specifically, high heterogeneous teams in gender and functions were more supportive and effective than low heterogeneous teams in those attributes. By contrast, high heterogeneous teams in tenure were less supportive and effective than low heterogeneous teams in that attribute. The results are discussed in light of the specific context of schools, and several theoretical and managerial implications are drawn.
Hotel investment in Canada: gaining perspective
Authors: Haywood K. Michael
Published: January 2007

The investment climate and operational performance for the Canadian hotel industry, as highlighted in this research note, are quite robust in contrast to the USA. Supply in most markets is not chasing demand, which has shown considerable constancy given events that have blindsided the industry in many other parts of the world. Given strong operating performance, the investment climate remains positive in the next few years, particularly for branded products that are well matched to the needs in specific markets.
Future human resource challenges in the Caribbean hospitality industry
Authors: Henry Ben , Butcher Wismore , Browne Yvette , Hinds May , Jayawardena Chandana
Published: January 2007

Aims to capture the highlights and outcomes of the second annual Caribbean roundtable discussion of human resource challenges in the Caribbean hospitality industry, during which 33 participants and observers from industry and academia debated a series of themes: nurturing talent; curriculum issues; languages in the curriculum; alienation and low morale in the workforce; foreign ownership; unionization; training and development and managing human resources. Key points made by participants are clustered under these themes.
The strategic placement of TQM in the organisation: a grounded study
Authors: Leonard Denis , McAdam Rodney
Published: January 2007

The aim of this paper is to investigate the strategic dynamics of total quality management (TQM) in an organisation using a grounded theory research methodology. Inductive grounded theory research methods are used to improve understanding. The main element of the research methodology is a longitudinal case study. The key findings, first indicate, that TQM and the Business Excellence Model (BEM) are not strategically significant models in an organisational context and lack dynamic representation. Second, the majority of the corporate strategic process and the key strategic drivers are outside the TQM environment. Finally, it is concluded that TQM can act as a strategic dynamic catalyst, incorporating culture, strategy and business operations.
Flow pattern transition of natural convection in a horizontal annulus with constant heat flux on the inner wall
Authors: Yoo Joo‐Sik
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study considers the natural convection in a horizontal annulus with constant heat flux on the inner cylinder, and investigates the transition of flows for various Prandtl numbers.

Design/methodology/approach

The streamfunction‐vorticity equation and the energy equation governing the flow and temperature field are solved with finite difference method.

Findings

Results are presented to show the transition of flow patterns with increase (or decrease) of the Rayleigh number, and a hysteresis phenomenon is observed.

Originality/value

Dual solutions are shown by using a numerical analysis in a horizontal annulus with constant heat flux on the inner wall.
Phase change in a three‐dimensional rectangular cavity under electromagnetically simulated low‐gravity
Authors: Veilleux Douglas L. , Gonçalves Eduardo , Faghri Mohammad , Asako Yutaka , Charmchi Majid
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To demonstrate, through numerical models, that it is possible to simulated low‐gravity phase change (melting), of an electrically conducting material (gallium), in terrestrial conditions via the application of electromagnetic fields.

Design/methodology/approach

A complete three‐dimensional mathematical formulation governing a phase change process in the presence of an electromagnetic field has been developed. In addition a comprehensive parametric study has been completed to study the various effects of gravity, Stefan number, Hartmann number and electromagnetic pressure number upon the phase change process.

Findings

The results show that the application of an electromagnetic filed can be used to simulate key melting characteristics found for actual low‐gravity. However, the resulting three‐dimensional flow field in the melted region differs from actual low‐gravity. The application of an electromagnetic field creates a flow phenomenon not found in actual low‐gravity or previously seen in two‐dimensional problems.

Research limitations/implications

Future work may include the use of oscillating electromagnetic fields to enhance convection in energy storage systems in a low‐gravity environment.

Practical implications

The ability to suppress unwanted convective flows in a phase change process without the high magnetic fields necessary in magnetic field only suppression systems.

Originality/value

This work fills a void in the literature related to conducting fluids and the effects of magnetic and electromagnetic fields.
Modifying best practices in women's advancement for the Latin American context
Authors: Maxfield Sylvia
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To stimulate research on Latin American businesswomen's career development and help human resource practitioners design culturally‐adapted advancement programs.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 27 interviews with human resources professional from US Fortune 500 companies with business in Latin America undertaken during 2001‐2003 are the basis for reporting on women's advancement programs in Latin America. A survey of literature on culture in Latin American work organizations provides basis for suggestions about cultural adaptation of these programs. Latin American businesswomen's perceptions of their own career development, recorded in interviews with over 100 businesswomen in six Latin American countries in 2002 by participants in the Women Business Leaders in Latin America project, corroborate these suggestions.

Findings

Women's initiatives imported from the USA to Latin America are likely to suffer several shortcomings unless modified to accommodate several common cultural attributes of Latin American work organizations.

Practical implications

Provides a guideline for developing gender diversity practices specifically suited to the Latin American context.

Originality/value

Major cross‐national projects on women, culture and leadership in business to date tend to neglect the Latin American region. This research begins to highlight and remedy that lacuna.
The emerging identity of women managers in post‐Soviet Belarus
Authors: Rees Christopher J. , Miazhevich Galina
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper critically reviews women managers' experiences of managing transition in post‐Soviet Belarus. The main aim of the paper is to explore the emerging learning experiences and learning practices of women managers in Belarus who are working in small and medium‐size business enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper commences with an exploration of the country context. It then seeks to draw attention to ongoing economic, political and cultural transformations within Belarus with a view to highlighting ways in which these transformations have impacted on the professional identities of women in Belarus in the post‐Soviet era. Interviews with 16 female managers were constructed to investigate specific issues such as how women managers in Belarus learn to be managers, how they perceive their own positions within organisations, the ways in which women managers use learning strategies as sense‐making mechanisms, and the career‐related obstacles faced by women managers in Belarus.

Findings

The findings indicate that women managers have adopted a variety of learning strategies to adjust to the changing nature of Belarusian business culture. These strategies involve drawing on multiple notions of a feminine work identity, which both resists and reaffirms traditional gender roles. The findings highlight women have learn to cope with a fragmented learning organisational context that is devoid of established networking and mentoring systems that are accessible normally to women managers. As such, the interview data indicate that women are developing and adopting individualised learning strategies and mechanisms to enable them to survive and succeed within business organisations.

Research limitations/implications

This research describes experiences of middle‐aged, urban, educated women employed in small and medium business enterprises without taking into account generational, ethnic and other differences.

Originality/value

Although this paper was written from the experiences of women in Belarus, it will be of interest to women experiencing career‐related obstacles.
The woman question? Gender and management in the Russian Federation
Authors: Dawn Metcalfe Beverly , Afanassieva Marianne
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper will be to examine the social and economic changes that have shaped women's work identity in the USSR and Russian Federation. Based on interview research with 30 female professionals in St Petersburg, Russia, we unravel the complexities of the “woman question” in soviet discourse and explore the individual subjectivities of managing gender and managing transition.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a life‐history qualitative research approach. We examine how transition from a Marxist system to a free market economy has impacted employment experiences of women.

Findings

It is shown that women have traditionally progressed in managerial and professional fields in Soviet society but that this advancement is being reversed during transition stages. Emphasising the socio‐political legacies of the Soviet gender order, we highlight how dominant gender roles are being reinforced along essentialist lines. The results highlight how women's work identity is being reconstructed along stereotypically feminine lines. This feminisation of work identity however, focuses on the aesthetic qualities of being a professional woman rather than on personal managerial qualities. We argue that the construction and reconstruction of a feminine professional self is an important aspect of managing gender and transition. The results also highlight an increase in discriminatory practices in HR systems and that women face both cultural and organisational barriers to their career advancement.

Originality/value

The paper argues that socialist ideology did not solve the woman question, but rather produced different forms of gendered inequalities. It suggests that equal opportunities will only be achieved when organisations comply with employment legislation. The research provides important insights into the gendered management processes within transitional contexts, which have previously remained uncharted.
Dance‐based exercise and Tai Chi and their benefits for people with arthritis: a review
Authors: Marks Ray
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The first aim of this review article is to systematically summarise, synthesise, and critically evaluate the research base concerning the use of two art forms, namely, dance‐based exercises and Tai Chi, as applied to people with arthritis (a chronic condition that results in considerable disability and, particularly in later life, severely impacts the life quality of the individual with this condition). A second is to provide directives for health educators who work or are likely to work with this population in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The material specifically focuses on examining the efficacy of dance therapy and Tai Chi as intervention strategies for minimising arthritis disability and dependence and improving life quality. The paper includes a review of all relevant articles published in the English language on the topic.

Findings

Collectively, these data reveal that dance‐based exercises and Tai Chi – practiced widely in China for many centuries as an art form, as well as a religious ritual, relaxation technique, exercise, and self‐defence method – may be very useful rehabilitation strategies for people with different forms of arthritis.

Originality/value

While more research is indicated, health educators working with people who have chronic arthritis can safely recommend these two forms of exercise to most people with arthritis with the expectation that both will heighten the life quality of the individual with this condition.
BP on the level with its leaders
Authors: Beal Brian
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to review the latest management‐training development at energy‐company giant BP.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds his own impartial comments and places two articles in context.

Findings

Who are the most important people in a business? Those at the very top, making the big, important decisions that affect everyone in the organization, its customers and its performance? Or those at the “sharp‐end” – the ones who come into direct contact with the customers or suppliers either face‐to‐face or on the telephone and whose performance can give an immediate and long‐lasting good or bad impression of the company? Maybe the answer is neither.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced BP.

Originality/value

Saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting the best, most pertinent information on the BP First Level Leaders development program and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.
A four‐level learning organisation benchmark implementation model
Authors: Phillips Bryan T.
Published: January 2007

Reveals that research using a new learning organisation benchmarking implementation model has found that Australian organisations are increasingly committed to adopting, and implementing, learning organisation principles. Discusses the debate over individual and organisational learning. Outlines a ten‐principle learning organisation benchmarking and implementation model and describes the methodology used to establish its validity. Shows how organisations can determine the extent of the shortfall between the importance accorded learning organisation principles and the extent of their implementation. It has the ability to identify sectoral trends and reveal individual organisation weaknesses. Concludes that the model is an effective means of establishing an organisation’s status, providing a vehicle for evolution into a learning organisation.
Process models implementation in the construction industry: a literature synthesis
Authors: Tzortzopoulos Patricia , Sexton Martin , Cooper Rachel
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Different process models have been developed by academia and industry to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the design and construction activity in response to the need for improving performance. However, the effective and widespread adoption and use of process models have been limited, and the benefits resulting from these endeavours have been ambiguous at best and non‐existent at worst. This paper synthesises the key general and construction‐specific literature related to process model implementation around a generic model, providing a systematic picture on the current knowledge on implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data sources were reviewed, criticised and synthesised. The books and academic papers identified focused on the areas of process management in construction and manufacturing, change management and knowledge/technology transfer.

Findings

The paper concludes that the body of literature related to process model implementation lacks an integrated focus and cohesion, and the need to appropriately locate and operate the implementation strategy within a visible organisational context is not adequately addressed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper review and synthesis are limited to relevant literature within the context of implementation of process models.

Practical implications

Gaps in the literature are identified and discussed, and a set of questions proposed to stipulate future research.

Originality/value

The paper originality relates to providing a broad, systemic perspective on the complexity of process models implementation, analysing it from different but interrelated conceptual lenses.
Worker safety issues in night‐time highway construction
Authors: Arditi David , Ayrancioglu Mehmet , Jingsheng Shi Jonathan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The research presented in this paper aims to investigate highway construction/maintenance professionals' perceptions of the effects of night‐time construction conditions on worker visibility and of issues associated with safety vests in night‐time activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted by administering a questionnaire survey to Illinois Department of Transportation operations personnel, resident engineers, contractors, and construction/maintenance professionals involved in night‐time construction in the Departments of Transportation of states other than Illinois.

Findings

It was found that most accidents in night‐time construction work areas are caused by the condition of the vehicle operator, that accidents are caused by through‐traffic and construction equipment operating inside the work area, and that the poor visibility of the workers plays an important role in accidents.

Research limitations/implications

A national survey (rather than mostly Illinois personnel) would certainly increase the sample size and therefore allow researchers to validate the findings of this study and to conduct extensive statistical analyses.

Practical implications

Night‐time construction/maintenance operations on highways may be hazardous for both drivers and construction personnel because of poor visibility at night. It is recommended that the design of safety vests adhere to existing standards issued by the American National Standards Institute and the International Safety Equipment Association. It is particularly important to ensure adequate performance in wet weather conditions.

Originality/value

If safety vests are perceived by workers to be effective, the frequency and severity of night‐time accidents can be reduced and labor productivity can be enhanced.
When Hershey met Betty: love, lust and co‐branding
Authors: Askegaard Søren , Bengtsson Anders
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a cultural approach to co‐branding. The purpose here is to discuss issues concerning the phenomena of brand and branding with particular focus on the mythological narratives that are at stake in a brand.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a case analysis of a co‐branded product. Provides both a managerial and a cultural reading of the co‐brand in question, before proceeding to make a “neo‐Freudian” analysis of the potentially transgressive meanings involved in the co‐branding in question. This is done not so much to produce an authoritative reading of the cultural and commercial sign of the co‐brand as to make a bold leap and provide a daring reading of a seemingly innocent co‐branded product.

Findings

Through the case study of the co‐branded product, the vast amount of cultural meanings that goes beyond the sets of brand identities proposed by the brand managers is explored. Discusses the limitations of traditional strategic branding models and suggests a certain degree of humility towards the mysterious and spiritual forces when trying to exploit mythological levels of social meanings and narratives in the branding process.

Practical implications

For brand managers who seek to co‐operate with other brands in the marketplace, this paper offers an argument for the almost limitless potential of symbolic dimensions that are inextricably linked to combining brand universes. By doing so, a more comprehensive understanding of the meaning management for co‐branded products and potentially a more successful outcome of the branding process may be achieved.

Originality/value

In addition to existing research, this paper illustrates that the practice of co‐branding involves a play with symbolic forces that can be unpredictable and difficult to control for a brand manager. This finding has implications for the degree to which one can expect to be able to manage the social communication processes generated from a co‐branded product.
An empirical analysis of the brand personality effect
Authors: Freling Traci H. , Forbes Lukas P.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Seeks to provide empirical support for the “brand personality effect”, that is, the direct influence that brand personality will have on a variety of consumer‐driven outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Tests a series of hypotheses using experimental research design with 192 subjects.

Findings

Support is found for all proposed hypotheses. These findings indicate that brand personality will have a positive influence on product evaluations and that subjects exposed to a brand's personality will have a significantly greater number of brand associations; significantly greater proportion of brand associations; significantly greater unique brand associations; significantly greater proportion of congruent brand associations; and significantly greater proportion of strong brand associations.

Practical implications

This paper conceptually establishes brand personality and empirically demonstrates the brand personality effect on consumer‐based outcomes. This finding strengthens the brand personality literature and establishes a baseline study for future empirical research.

Originality/value

Brand personality has received levels of research from academics and practitioners alike, but this research presents the first empirical test of the direct effect of brand personality and how it drives consumer behavior.
Does brand loyalty influence double jeopardy? A theoretical and empirical study
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Subir , Gupta Kunal , Dube Laurette
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Compared with the large brands, not only do the small brands attract fewer customers but also their customers buy them less frequently. This twin disadvantage of the less popular brands is termed “double jeopardy” (DJ). Earlier studies on the DJ effect have generally explained this as a behavioral phenomenon relating to the size structure of the market. This article aims to argue that the DJ effect is also influenced by the relationship between consumer choice antecedents and consumer buying behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Using consumer attitudinal and behavioral data on various toothpaste brands collected by a leading consumer goods company, it is shown that small brands are jeopardized in terms of individual‐level choice antecedents of both loyal and switching consumers. In particular, small brands are further jeopardized for brand=switching consumers in terms of weaker attitude‐choice relationship.

Findings

The research findings have significant managerial implications. the research suggests that double jeopardy of small brands may not be as irreversible phenomenon posited. A more in‐depth understanding of the individual‐level antecedents of consumer choice should help small brands to develop innovative offensive and defensive strategies aimed at favorable individual choice antecedents of loyal and switching consumers. For example, it may be prudent for a small brand to concentrate on a selected few segments (such as brand‐loyal segments) instead of spreading scarce brand resources across scattered promotion and distribution strategies.

Originality/value

Examines the choice antecedents of consumers who either are loyal to a brand or are brand switchers.
Technological congruence and perceived quality of brand extensions
Authors: Story John , Sue Loroz Peggy
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and test a series of precepts which explain the role of technology and technology congruence in consumers' perceptions of brand extensions.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of relationships between technological congruence and consumer evaluations of brand extensions is proposed. Regression analysis and a series of planned contrasts are employed to test these relationships.

Findings

In general, extensions that are higher in overall technology content are perceived as being higher in quality. Higher technology brands benefit from a superordinate brand technology effect. However, this technology content effect is moderated by the congruence/incongruence of the levels of technology of the brands, products, and attributes.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitations of this research are that it focused on a relatively small and homogeneous segment of the population (average age 24) and it tested the effects of technological incongruence only on perceived quality.

Practical implications

These results have extensive implications for designing and positioning brand extensions in the market. The implications are particularly salient for brands that are perceived as employing relatively low technology.

Originality/value

These results improve one's understanding of customers' responses to brand extensions, particularly when the product or associated attributes are technologically incongruent with the brand.
Web site accessibility and usability: towards more functional sites for all
Authors: Yates Ross
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore both accessibility and usability and examine the inhibitors and methods to evaluate site accessibility. Design techniques which improve end‐user access and site interactivity, demonstrated by practical examples, are also studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Assesses various web sites for accessibility and usability.

Findings

Criteria are determined by which to assess accessibility and usability of web sites.

Originality/value

Disability is an important consideration in the development of contemporary web sites. By understanding the needs of all users, not only those with disabilities, organisations may begin the process of advancing both accessibility and usability and integrating these elements into their web development strategies.
Usability training
Authors: Cervone H. Frank
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide a model for implementing an on‐going program of training in usability topics for staff throughout the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on best practices and thinking of industry leaders, a model for implementing an on‐going training program is developed based on learning theory, training practices, and the unique issues related to usability engineering.

Findings

Provides a model for developing a localized training program for usability.

Originality/value

This paper addresses an area of usability, training in usability, which has not been addressed directly. It fills a vacuum in the literature by offering a practical model for beginning an on‐going program of usability training for staff.
Consumers' attitudes toward regulation of internet auction sites
Authors: Yang Kenneth C.C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purposes of this study are to examine internet users' perception of potential harm among a list of products available on internet auction sites, to discuss the influence of the third‐person effect on internet users' pro‐regulatory attitudes, and to investigate the effects of users' characteristics and perceived harm on their attitudes toward regulation of online auction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire survey was designed and employed to collect information about internet users' third‐person effect perception, pro‐regulatory attitudes toward internet auction sites, and control variables such as demographics, internet usage, and innovative characteristics. A convenience sample of 592 internet users was recruited to take part in this study.

Findings

Internet users' perceptual differences are statistically significant between the estimated influence on self, teenagers, and other adults for each product. Perceived harm to self consistently predicts internet users' pro‐regulatory attitudes, but not for teenagers and other adults. Perceived harm to self also predicts pro‐regulatory attitudes toward these web sites, even after controlling for potential confounding variables.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by its convenient sampling method and measurement of internet users' actual and intended behavior. Nevertheless, because internet users play a complex role of buyers, sellers, and possible victims on auction sites, it is important to examine perceptions and motivations underlying their support for regulating online auction industry.

Originality/value

The integrated approach of mass communication, electronic commerce activities, and public policy‐making perspectives ensures that future regulatory proposal of online auction industry will be comprehensive.
International networks in higher education: realising their potential?
Authors: Ottewill Roger , Riddy Paul , Fill Karen
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To illustrate the nature, range and variety of international networks linking individuals and institutions and reflecting the globalisation of higher education and desire of educators with common interests to shed their parochialism and communicate and collaborate on aspects of academic practice across national boundaries.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on their personal experiences of securing European Union funding for establishing a network of tertiary level educators and some targeted online research, to inform their review and analysis.

Findings

Internationals networks in sphere of higher education can be either subject‐specific or thematic in their aims and either global or restricted to one part of the world in their membership. Some are the outcome of activities at grass roots level while others are a response to policy initiatives from inter‐governmental organisations.

Practical implications

Although widespread, international networks in higher education are by no means unproblematic and questions inevitably arise as to their contribution and role in facilitating innovations in academic practice. The authors identify a number of issues concerning their modus operandi and roles that need to be addressed if they are to play a full part in contributing to academic practice in higher education.

Originality/value

By highlighting the nature and contributions of international networks faculty are alerted to this mode of academic communication and collaboration and the steps that need to be taken if the full potential of such networks is be realised.
Universities without “quality” and quality without “universities”
Authors: Dator Jim
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To review what “quality” meant to universities historically and might mean in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

Written as a keynote talk for The Australian Universities Quality Forum 2004, this paper problematizes “universities” and “quality” by reviewing the way changing communication modalities have changed the meaning of the two terms over time.

Findings

After reviewing some of the literature forecasting alternative futures of universities, the paper settles on a preferred future in which all education, higher and lower, is driven by the logic, best practices, and evolving technologies of electronic games.

Research limitations/implications

The paper reveals that researchers who compare word‐based educational systems with electronic, interactive sound‐and‐image‐based systems should use measures appropriate for the latter, rather than derived from the former.

Practical implications

The paper shows that educators should take interactive electronic game methods more seriously in thinking about and planning for the futures of universities and their curricula.

Originality/value

This paper provides a contribution to the growing emphasis on making learning interactive, engaging, effective, and fun.
Retail in 2010: a world of extremes
Authors: Gagnon Joseph L. , Chu Julian J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Advises retailers that traditional strategies will not be adequate to cope with trends such as unprecedented customer diversity, market polarization and dominant mega‐retailers. Explains what capabilities will retailers need to remain relevant to demanding customers. Suggests how retail executives should begin preparing to embrace fundamental change and become truly customer‐centric.

Design/methodology/approach

Using scenario techniques to examine retailing in 2010, the authors explore a “world of extremes”. In it retailers will face a consumer marketplace defined by unprecedented social diversity, competitive intensity and market complexity.

Findings

As the marketplace polarizes across a variety of dimensions, corporate thinking needs to shift from “bell curves” – where firms try to serve a generic mass market but do not meet anyone's needs particularly well – to “well curves” – where companies drive growth by applying distinct business models in each part of their business to deliver the greatest value to explicitly defined groups of customers. In 2010, retailers will succeed to the extent that they abandon the undifferentiated middle and focus their organizations on serving the extremes of the demand curve, even if they play both sides.

Research limitations/implications

This is one scenario from a set of possible futures for retailing in 2010.

Practical implications

By learning how the world of extremes scenario is being shaped by long‐running social and industry trends which, when added together, will bring about fundamental changes in the retail market, business can anticipate what steps they must take now to prepare for survival and success in 2010. These include: Craft an exceedingly focused, distinctive brand proposition; Drive customer‐valued innovation through deeper insight; Optimize core activities through systematic intelligence; Realign the organization to operationalize customer centricity.

Originality/value

Based on research at the IBM Institute for Business Value and work with clients worldwide, IBM Consulting identified five key “mega‐trends” that are redrawing the rules of competition for retailers: Customer value drivers fragment; Customers become more guarded; Information exposes all; Mega‐retailers break the boundaries; Partnering becomes pervasive.
Pricing strategy and execution: an overlooked way to increase revenues and profits
Authors: Davidson Alistair , Simonetto Mike
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This article advocates putting pricing strategy on the CEO's agenda and considers the new concept of pricing execution – the development of pricing strategy and the implementation of the strategy through a combination of leadership, management practice, and software – from the point of view of the senior management team.

Design/methodology/approach

New software tools give companies a new way of setting, optimizing, and enforcing pricing changes within the organization.

Findings

There has been an explosion of applications in the pricing management space. Pricing execution offers both growing and mature companies a lower‐risk approach to revenue, margin, profit, and shareholder‐value growth than innovation and acquisitions.

Research limitations/implications

A proprietary 2005 Deloitte study of the available applications concludes that no one vendor offers a complete integrated solution.

Practical implications

Using software to improve pricing measurement, combined with better pricing execution, can help many organizations generate revenue rapidly.

Originality/value

CEOs and other leaders can use the article to educate the senior management team on the opportunity that pricing management represents.
Using scenarios to create common understanding across different cultures
Authors: Ringland Gill
Published: January 2007

Purpose

A High Level Expert Group (HLEG) was set up to consider the topic of converging technologies and to propose to the European Union how to approach it. But the group soon developed communications problems. A few members of the group proposed using scenario methodology to develop a common language.

Design/methodology/approach

The HLEG decided that creating four scenarios for Europe in 2020 would provide an explicit framework for discussing the contribution of converging technologies to society and the economy, and thus would ameliorate the communications problems that plagued the group.

Findings

Using scenarios to create alternative worlds allowed different views of desirable and acceptable futures to be set in context. The net result was a useful report presented to the European Commission.

Research limitations

This case study reports on four scenarios for Converging Technologies for the European Knowledge Society (CTEKs) in the year 2020.

Practical implications

Managers of diverse groups could use the same techniques to promote effective communication.

Originality/value

Managing diverse groups – such as networked communities – is becoming an important management skill and so is using scenarios to facilitate communication and learning among them.
Financial Reporting and Local Government Reform – a (Mis)Match?
Authors: Pilcher Robyn
Published: January 2007

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to examine whether there is potential for political parties to use flawed financial figures in performance measures designed to assist them in determining the viability and autonomy of New South Wales (NSW) local councils (NSW is the largest of Australia's eight states and territories). If in fact this is the case, then a mis‐match between the original objectives of the reform process (efficiency, effectiveness and accountability), current reporting practices and the manner in which decisions are made can be said to exist. Design/methodology/approach – Initial analytical analysis was carried out on all NSW local councils (170), followed by a more detailed study of 56 councils. The method adopted included archival research combined with interviews and case study analysis. Valuation and depreciation practices as applied to transport infrastructure assets were used as exemplars to investigate the study objective. Findings – Inconsistent asset value and depreciation practices were found to impact on key financial performance indicators included as part of the financial health check criteria which, in turn, were used by decision‐makers in their examination of a council's ability to continue as a viable going concern. Practical implications – Findings pave the way for future research to determine if any causal relationship exists between decisions regarding accounting for transport infrastructure assets and political policies current at the time. Originality/value – Very little research has occurred in Australia examining the accuracy of figures included in decision‐making. This paper lays the foundation for future research in other countries where local government reported figures are used in anyway by various stakeholders for political or other decision making.
Supply Chain Management: A Case Study of an Integrated Lean and Agile Model
Authors: Mistry Jamshed J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose – To describe the evolution of an integrated ‘lean’ and ‘agile’ supply chain process that employed Just‐in‐time (JIT) lean manufacturing approaches at an electronics company. Design/methodology/approach – A case study was designed to examine the links between specific efficiencies and cost savings that derived from transitions in the evolution of the integrated lean and agile supply chain. The case study focused on the company's supply chain management innovations that led to specific improvements in production processes that in turn resulted in enhanced financial outcomes. Findings – The data revealed how specific quality enhancing and lean manufacturing components evolved over a period of seven years in a two stage transition from a ‘lean’ supply chain to one that represented an integrated lean and agile paradigm based on the decoupling point approach (Christopher & Towill, 2001). Research limitations/implications – A single site case study limits the generalizability of the findings. Additional research is necessary to replicate the findings in other firms/industries. Practical implications – By incorporating improvements in production processes in the supply chain, managers can determine how inefficiencies in the supply chain process can be tracked and eliminated to improve a firm's financial performance. Originality/value – Research that documents links between different managerial functions, e.g. supply chain management, improved manufacturing processes, and accounting issues (e.g. cost reduction and improved profitability), is particularly useful.
Observe, record, then beyond: Facilitating participant reflection via research diaries
Authors: Lewis Kate , Sligo Frank , Massey Claire
Published: January 2007

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the application of the diary‐interview method in the context of research on technological learning in the New Zealand dairy industry. Design/methodology/approach – The diary‐interview method was used to collect data from 8 farmers operating small or medium sized farms. The data gathered supplemented that collected through other means and was an important component of the case studies. Findings – The diary‐interview method was found to be highly appropriate for this project context because it allowed the researchers access to data that would not otherwise have been available (due to project constraints) and to a deeper degree of reflection from the interviewees. Research limitations/implications – The use of the diary interview method is time consuming and can result in complex data to be analysed. The method was only applied to 8 cases and while the experiences in each were positive there may be instances where its application would be inappropriate. Originality/value – The paper contributes to the literature on effective qualitative research and provides a detailed guide to the use of the method, as well as its limitations.
Defying marketing sovereignty: voluntary simplicity at new consumption communities
Authors: Bekin Caroline , Carrigan Marylyn , Szmigin Isabelle
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To broaden the scope of our knowledge of collective voluntarily simplified lifestyles in the UK, by exploring whether voluntary simplifiers achieve their goals by adopting a simpler life.

Design/methodology/approach

Radical forms of voluntary simplifier groups were explored through participant‐observation research. The methodology can be broadly classified as critical ethnography, and a multi‐locale approach has been used in designing the field.

Findings

Although for some of these consumers voluntary simplicity seems to have reinstated the enjoyment of life, certain goals remain unfulfilled and other unexpected issues arise, such as the challenges of mobility in the attainment of environmental goals.

Research limitations/implications

This is an ongoing research, however many opportunities for further research have arisen from this study. Quantitative research could be undertaken on the values and attitudes buttressing voluntary simplicity specifically in the UK. The extent to which such communities influence mainstream consumers could be studied both quantitatively and qualitatively. Mainstream consumers' attitudes to the practices of such communities could prove useful for uncovering real consumer needs.

Practical implications

Despite these communities position in the extreme end of the voluntary simplicity spectrum, their role in shaping the practices and attitudes of other consumers is clear.

Originality/value

This paper provides new consumer insights that can re‐shape policy‐making and marketing practice aimed at achieving a sustainable future.
Customer relationships in the e‐economy: mutual friends or just a veneering?
Authors: Ayios Angela , Harris Lisa
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate whether technological developments can be used in call centre environments to build trust and hence lasting customer relationships beyond the usual focus on efficiency gains through automation.

Design/methodology/approach

Draws upon depth interviews with management and staff in three very different types of call centre to critically examine the ways in which caring attitudes and competent behaviour of call centre staff can contribute to building durable bases for customer trust.

Findings

While one of the case studies exemplifies a purely economic rationale for call centre operations, the other two demonstrate that a truly optimal application of technology creates a shared system of which customers and employees form an integrated part. Employees' knowledge of the system and the product it underpins are applied in a positive way to create relationships and trust with the customers with whom they transact.

Practical implications

Argues that competitive advantage can be gained if the customer perception is of an organisation that is concerned with building relationships based on competence or empathy to meet individual needs – features which stand out clearly in an industry sector often associated with standardised services, “sweatshop” working conditions and control‐based management practices focused on a purely economic rationale.

Originality/value

Demonstrates that multi‐channel environments for customer interaction offer potential for competitive advantage beyond short‐term efficiency gains when the convenience of channel choice is creatively combined with competent and empathetic customer service.