bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recursive algorithm for the two‐dimensional cutting problem of punched strips
Authors: Cui Yaodong
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide an algorithm for the two‐dimensional guillotine‐cutting problem of punched strips.

Design/methodology/approach

It is assumed that the stock sheet is cut into blanks in two stages. First a guillotine shear cuts the sheet into strips, and then a stamping press punches out the blanks from the strips. To generate good strip layout, the sheet is divided into two segments with an orthogonal cut. Each segment consists of strips in the same direction. The strip directions of the two segments are perpendicular to each other. A recursion function is established to determine the optimal strip layouts on segments of different lengths. All possible segment lengths are considered either explicitly or implicitly. Two segments of different strip directions are selected optimally to compose the final cutting pattern.

Findings

A strip can be taken as consisting of rectangular pieces, where the length of the first piece may be longer than that of the others. Normal lengths and widths can be defined according to the properties of punched strips. Considering only normal segment lengths and using lower bound in the recursion function can reduce the computation time drastically.

Practical implications

Based on the algorithm, practitioners may develop applications to solve real world two‐dimensional cutting problem of punched strips.

Originality/value

The two‐segment cutting patterns for punched strips are proposed. They are simple to cut and may be welcomed in practice.
A study on the effects of microparameters on macroproperties for specimens created by bonded particles
Authors: Yang Budong , Jiao Yue , Lei Shuting
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To use distinct element simulation (PFC2D) to investigate the relationships between microparameters and macroproperties of the specimens that are modeled by bonded particles. To determine quantitative relationships between particle level parameters and mechanical properties of the specimens.

Design/methodology/approach

A combined theoretical and numerical approach is used to achieve the objectives. First, theoretical formulations are proposed for the relationships between microparameters and macroproperties. Then numerical simulations are conducted to quantify the relationships.

Findings

The Young's modulus is mainly determined by particle contact modulus and affected by particle stiffness ratio and slightly affected by particle size. The Poisson's ratio is mainly determined by particle stiffness ratio and slightly affected by particle size. The compressive strength can be scaled by either the bond shear strength or the bond normal strength depending on the ratio of the two quantities.

Research limitations/implications

The quantitative relationships between microparameters and macroproperties for parallel‐bonded PFC2D specimens are empirical in nature. Some modifications may be needed to model a specific material. The effects of the particle distribution and bond strength distribution of a PFC2D specimen are very important aspects that deserve further investigation.

Practical implications

The results will provide guidance for people who use distinct element method, especially the PFC2D, to model brittle materials such as rocks and ceramics.

Originality/value

This paper offers some new quantitative relationships between microparameters and macroproperties of a synthetic specimen created using bonded particle model.
Similarity reduction of a (3+1) Navier‐Stokes system
Authors: Kamran Fakhar , Zu‐Chi Chen , Xiaoda Ji , Cheng Yi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Providing a much easier (direct) approach to calculate the Lie point symmetries of (3 + 1) unsteady Navier‐Stokes equations for viscous, incompressible flow in cylindrical polar coordinates.

Design/methodology/approach

Lie group theory, is applied to the equations of motion. Symmetries obtained through a direct approach are then used to reduce (3 + 1) Navier‐Stokes system to a system of ordinary differential equations.

Findings

We observed that the approach applied here to calculate the symmetries of the group is entirely straightforward and involves less calculation as compared to the computer programs such as LIE, Symmgrp.max (MACSYMA) or other symbolic manipulation systems. Further, results obtained here will be practical and useful in comprehending the fluid flow behavior.

Research limitations/implications

We only obtained the exact solution through basic transformations (translation and scaling). The similarity reduction through other subalgebras (finite and infinite dimensions) can be used to explore more facts about the Navier‐Stokes equations.

Originality/value

Direct approach provided in this paper can be utilized to achieve symmetries of other physically important PDEs.
The Malaysian market for audit services: ethnicity, multinational companies and auditor choice
Authors: Che Ahmad Ayoib , Houghton Keith A. , Zalina Mohamad Yusof Nor
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent to which ethnic association (i.e. Chinese and Bumiputra ownerships) and national issues (i.e. the presence of foreign corporations) influence the audit services market in Malaysia. Specifically, the paper aims to examine the effects of ethnicity and foreign ownership on choice of auditor.

Design/methodology/approach

Two logit models are used; the first is to test on ethnic auditor (Chinese/non‐Chinese) choice while the second is related to the choice of quality‐differentiated auditor. The data is obtained from annual reports of the population of the Bursa Malaysia listed companies for both the Main Board and the Second Board for the periods 1993‐1995.

Findings

The logit regressions confirm our prediction of ethnic networking and preferential treatment on the auditor selection process.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation lies on the auditor choice model where the model is developed from a demand perspective, assuming that the auditors are willing to supply services to any client even though it is very unlikely in the real world. The model also assumes that the audit engagement process for foreign‐controlled companies is purely transacted in the Malaysian market. However, foreign multinational corporations might determine the selection of the auditor at the headquarter offices and the Malaysian subsidiaries might simply be directed to engage a given auditor. Another limitation relates to the results of the logit regressions as the study has documented an ethnic association between auditor and auditee rather than establishing a causal relationship.

Practical implications

An important implication of these findings relates to auditor independence. The Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) has made rules prescribing the code of professional conduct and ethics of public accountants known as the MIA By‐Laws (on Professional Conduct and Ethics) but it seems to neglect the diversity of local culture in addressing independence. Whilst the auditor is divorced from financial and familial interests, the ethnic sentiments might impair auditor independence especially in an audit conflict situation.

Originality/value

The paper provides important insights into the existence of Chinese business practices in Malaysia and auditor selection process in this country.
Service quality, client satisfaction and loyalty towards audit firms
Authors: Ismail Ishak , Haron Hasnah , Nasir Ibrahim Daing , Mohd Isa Salmi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between audit service quality, client satisfaction and loyalty to the audit firms. SERVQUAL model was used to measure the perceptions and expectations of public listed companies on the services received from audit firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The five dimensions of SERVQUAL, i.e. reliability, assurance, tangibility, empathy and responsiveness was used to measure the service quality of audit firms. The research was conducted using primary data. Questionnaires were sent to 500 public listed companies listed in Bursa Saham Malaysia for year 2005.

Findings

The public listed companies were satisfied with the tangible dimension but were dissatisfied with the other four dimensions. The most dissatisfied dimension was empathy. Customer satisfaction was found to partially mediate the relationship of reliability and customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size is a limitation of the study. Also, the study examined all services offered by audit firms. A larger sample size and focusing on a particular service would be better as the respondents would then be able to give a more focused answer. Also, the public listed companies were not analysed further into various industry types, size of firm and other corporate attributes to understand their different needs.

Practical implications

The study defines the attributes of quality services from the clients' perspective. Once the needs are more clearly known and understood, the audit firms will be in a better position to anticipate clients' requirement rather than to react to clients' dissatisfactions.

Originality/value

The paper uses a marketing model, SERVQUAL, to measure the service quality of audit firms.
Board, audit committee, culture and earnings management: Malaysian evidence
Authors: Abdul Rahman Rashidah , Haneem Mohamed Ali Fairuzana
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to investigate the extent of the effectiveness of monitoring functions of board of directors, audit committee and concentrated ownership in reducing earnings management among 97 firms listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia over the period 2002‐2003.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study employs the cross‐sectional modified version of Jones, where abnormal working capital accruals are used as proxy for earnings management.

Findings

The study reveals that earnings management is positively related to the size of the board of directors. This supports the view that larger boards appear to be ineffective in their oversight duties relative to smaller boards. A possible explanation for the insignificant relationship between other corporate governance mechanisms (independence of board and audit committee) and earnings management is that the board of directors is seen as ineffective in discharging their monitoring duties due to management dominance over board matters. The apparent reason for this phenomenon is attributed to the board of directors' relative lack of knowledge in company's affairs. The study also found that ethnicity (race) has no effect in mitigating earnings management, possibly due to the more individualistic behaviour of the Bumiputra directors. The modernisation of Malaysia and also the increase in Bumiputra ownership of national wealth may have caused the Malays to be more individualistic, similar to their Chinese counterpart.

Originality/value

Since, there are relatively few studies conducted in this area specifically among Malaysian firms, this study will broaden the scope by providing empirical evidence of the relationship between various corporate governance characteristics, cultural factors and earnings management.
Information literacy and action research
Authors: Vezzosi Monica
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper presents an overview of the action research methodology and asserts its suitability as an approach to enquiry and practice in the field of information literacy (IL). An experience of action research is briefly presented and some strengths and weaknesses of this methodological approach are critically discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Action research was adopted for investigating the impact of an IL programme on a homogeneous group of students at the University of Parma (Italy). The project consisted of a cycle of four stages: observing, planning, acting, evaluating. Peer observation was adopted both as a validation method and as a support for the reflection on the research process.

Findings

Action research is a suitable approach for teaching librarians, as it allows them to experience the role of teacher, researcher and reflective practitioner all together, thus favouring reflection on the complex, “multitask” role that they are playing today. Moreover, action research puts teaching librarians in an attitude of learning from the educational context in which they work, encourages sharing of experiences and promotes change in library context.

Originality/value

This contribution could encourage teaching librarians to adopt action research as a new approach to enquiry and practice and as a way to investigate their context, reflect on their actions and promote change in the field of IL.
Crossing a bridge
Authors: Hurley Tina , Hegarty Nora , Bolger Jennifer
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To describe the challenges involved in developing and delivering a pilot library skills course to a group of international bridging studies students from China and Pakistan. To provide guidelines for other libraries who may be faced with similar challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper documents the development and delivery of a pilot course for international students. The course described formed part of an accredited Critical Thinking & Research Skills module. The challenges of the project are described and a number of recommendations for its future development are outlined.

Findings

The project underlined the challenges involved in teaching library skills to international students. The main barrier that emerged throughout the course related to communication difficulties. Language levels amongst the group were poorer than anticipated. The group did display excellent IT skills, however, and enjoyed class work that actively engaged them in the learning process.

Research limitations/implications

The project is still at a pilot stage of development. The paper provides a short‐term view of one small academic library's experience of working with international students. No full‐scale student survey has been conducted to date.

Practical implications

This account of WIT Libraries experience of developing and delivering an accredited information skills course for the bridging studies group is likely to be a useful source of practical information for libraries in similar positions, of similar scale, faced with similar challenges.

Originality/value

Offers practical solutions for libraries in similar positions. The successful diversification of the traditional library role is likely to be of interest to all members of the library profession.
Legacy in flight: processing the Marlon D. Green collection
Authors: Hoverstock Abigail , Baird Rebecca
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Two graduate LIS students interested in archival studies describe their first effort processing a manuscript collection belonging to Marlon D. Green, the first African American commercial airline pilot in the US.

Design/methodology/approach

The students locate introductory readings and seek the advice of professional archivists to organize the collection and write a finding aid that describes its contents. The novice archivists explore issues of appraisal, arrangement, description and preservation of items in the collection, and discuss the challenges archivists face in organizing collections objectively.

Findings

The students find organizing a manuscript collection to be a surprisingly collaborative and social process. Learning about Marlon Green's life directly from his family members gives the student archivists the advantage of knowing the context of his papers, which helps them order and group items more effectively.

Practical implications

Archivists will benefit from researching a collection's subject thoroughly at the beginning of the process. Collaborating with other archivists on processing collections may help archivists test and hone their methods and achieve greater consistency. The paper is an informal case study about organizing a manuscript collection or collection of family papers.

Originality/value

The discussion of an archivist's role may be useful to novice and student archivists or LIS professionals who have in their care a collection of papers that must be organized and described.
Police powers and human rights in the context of terrorism
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The object of the paper is to analyse the justifications for the modification of police powers in response to terrorist threats, placing this issue in a European context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper consists of a critical examination of provisions relating to terrorism emanating from the European Union and the Council of Europe (European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)), and the relevant English law on police powers of stop and search, arrest, and detention.

Findings

Nothing in European law requires the amendments to police powers contained in English law; European law requires respect for human rights, even in dealing with terrorism; a shoot‐to‐kill policy is prohibited by the ECHR; and balance is an unsatisfactory method of resolving conflicts in this area.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited in its scope to certain areas of police powers, and to certain fundamental European documents. Future research should consider the issue in relation to wider areas.

Originality/value

It challenges the idea of balance between liberty and security, proposing a test based on necessity instead.
2005 Conference of Nigeria Library Association: Delta State Chapter
Authors: Ozioma Anie Sylvester , Alakpodia O.N.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To report on the Delta State Chapter of the Nigeria Library Association Conference/Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Wednesday, 9‐10 November 2005 at Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, with the theme, “Library literacy and sustainable education” aimed at creating an awareness among librarians and the literate members of the state on the philosophy of the profession and the centrality of its place in facilitating a sustained and steady tempo in the educational development of the state.

Design/methodology/approach

A heoretical/journalistic is taken.

Findings

Focus on activities of the event; the conference had, as one of the main activities on its agenda, the launching of a school library in one of the remote villages of the state; a step that was targeted at exposing the students and pupils of this area to recorded knowledge. Considering that knowledge is self‐generating, functioning and expanding on the basis of existing information resources, to promote library literacy and sustainable education in Delta State. Libraries in the State should be equipped and up‐dated with library materials, information and computer facilities.

Originality/value

Reveals how Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) can revolutionize libraries in developing countries.
Preparing Information Professionals for Leadership in the New Age: The 1st Asia Pacific Conference on Library and Information Education and Practice
Authors: Ghosh Maitrayee
Published: July 2006

Purpose

A conference report of the first Asia‐Pacific Conference on Library & Information Education and Practice conference hosted by the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Library and Information Science education was the focus and preparing librarians for the twenty‐first century. The purpose is to educate practicing librarians and information scientists about directions in the profession and how to incorporate this message into the practice of librarianship.

Findings

Different presentations highlighted new approaches and methods to approach new ways of thinking about service and expectations in the library community.

Research limitations/implications

Gaining insight into current trends in library education. As library environments experience great change, with more emphasis on technology, it is imperative to train librarians with new competencies.

Practical implications

Combining library education and practice is key to being relevant to developments in library science education and retaining the science and technology as key components in the training of librarians.

Originality/value

Of interest to regional librarians as well as librarians worldwide interested in how this region is preparing the next generation of librarians to practice with new skills, technology applications and to meet expectations.
HumaniTech1: A Discipline‐Centered Approach to Technology at UCI
Authors: Cohen Barbara L.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To share with readers how HumaniTech evolved and has matured over 18 years.

Design/methodology/approach

A description of a programmatic infrastructure that emphases technology in the humanities for teaching and research purposes.

Findings

As more institutions define and focus on how technology is driving their disciplines and changing how scholarship is being created, more connections are being made to educate the scholars about opportunities for improved ways to teach, incorporate new resources and methodologies to better define and further their craft. Implementing media to study and capture information is a moving target with new products and technologies being announced often.

Research limitations/implications

This visit to HumaniTech does not capture everything but focuses on how technology in the humanities at one institution has addressed the need to raise the bar and share how colleagues are using information in their field and what this may mean for scholarly publishing.

Practical implications

Filling information gaps as new technologies offered different ways to conduct research and engage in teaching birthed HumaniTech. Today, nearly two decades later, a robust program of content, resources, and a higher common denominator is reached by a discipline‐centered unit to bridge technology with content.

Originality/value

Shows that the University of California, Irvine School of the Humanities promotes best practices of entertaining technology in humanities scholarship with instruction, programs, teaching tools and resources.
The dynamics of public networks
Authors: Saz‐Carranza Angel , Vernis Alfred
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper, by carrying out a review of the existent literature, tries to answer the question: what is the process an inter‐organizational public network undergoes?

Design/methodology/approach

First, different linear‐sequential network process models proposed by different scholars and disciplines are reviewed. Thereafter, grounded on the existing literature, some basic dimensions are identified, used to compare the different models proposed, highlighting complementarities and contradictions.

Findings

Different authors expect contradictory evolutions of the relations between actors along the stages. Complementing linear process models with other types of approaches, e.g. dialectical models, may well synthesize the opposing findings.

Originality/value

The gap in knowledge on public network process makes the study of network process both theoretically relevant and significant to practice. The main contribution of the paper is a comparative study of the conceptualizations of the process a network undergoes.
Personality factors influencing politicians' attitudes toward wellbeing of citizens
Authors: Osayawe Ehigie Benjamin , Abimbola Kolade Ibidolapo , Ayooluwa Afolabi Olukayode
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine how personality dispositions of Nigerian politicians predict their attitude to the wellbeing of citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research was embarked that engaged 185 political aspirants to various electoral positions in the 2003 Nigerian elections. Respondents were administered a standardized psychological instrument that measures four personality attributes – needs for achievement, affiliation, dominance, and autonomy. They also responded to another standardized instrument that measures attitude to wellbeing of people.

Findings

Hierarchical multiple regression analyses conducted showed that gender and age are significant predictors of politicians' attitudes to wellbeing of the people. Male and younger politicians are more favorably disposed to people's wellbeing than female and older politicians. Among the personality attributes only need for achievement significantly accounted for variations in attitude to people's wellbeing. Specifically, the lower politicians are in need of achievement the more favorably disposed they are to people's wellbeing.

Research limitations/implications

The research participants are not completely representative of politicians in Nigeria because the sample was drawn from the Southwest only. In addition, the personality attributes examined are not exhaustive as there are other possible attributes that could predict politicians' attitudes to citizens' wellbeing. There is also a limit to which results on attitude can be used to predict actual behavior of politicians to people's wellbeing.

Practical implications

The study demonstrates the need for psychological tests in Nigeria's electoral process. It demonstrates that personality attributes of politicians could be assessed and used to predict their concern for citizens' wellbeing. It is opined that, where politicians are more concerned with the citizens' wellbeing, it could enhance the sustainability of democracy in Nigeria.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates a dimension of psychological testing in Nigeria's electoral process.
The role of functional specialists in shaping controls within supply networks
Authors: Cuganesan Suresh
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how accounting and supply function specialists shape controls in collaborative supply networks (CSNs) and how both might co‐evolve.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a case study of an Australian metal manufacturer (“SteelBiz”) and its CSN is conducted.

Findings

The paper finds changes in both trust vis‐à‐vis formal controls and in intra‐organisational supply‐accounting relations occurred in a mutually constitutive manner. At SteelBiz, a shift to formal controls occurred due to the efforts of the accounting function in contesting organisational visibility. Overall, both intra‐ and inter‐organisational relations were found to co‐evolve.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the paper include: an empirical examination of buyer organisations only; a focus on intra‐organisational issues between functional specialists to the relative exclusion of both more “macro” trends and inter‐personal relationships; and the limited generalisability associated with the methodology chosen. Future research should consider both buyer and supplier organisations and whether the “disciplinary alignments” observed here are reflective of more enduring patterns.

Originality/value

The contributions of this paper are two‐fold. First, the paper attempts to fill a gap in the literature pertaining to how intra‐organisational relations might influence network controls. Furthermore, the few studies that do exist describe the “intra‐inter” dynamic as uni‐directional only, whereas this paper reveals how both mutually constitute the other. Second, complexities into the trust‐formal control relationship are revealed while it is proposed that as CSN relations develop, process‐based mechanisms become more important than other relationship‐sustaining devices, with the trust‐formal control dynamic dependent on ongoing negotiation and information as mobilised by intra‐organisational participants.
Strategic posture, financial performance and environmental disclosure
Authors: Magness Vanessa
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to test Ullmann's hypothesis that strategy posture, modified by financial performance, must be considered in light of stakeholder power in order to understand a company's social responsibility disclosure policy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study in this paper uses regression analysis to examine annual report disclosure of environmental information after a major accident in the mining industry. A multiple‐item disclosure score is tailored to the Canadian accounting environment, and used as a dependent variable.

Findings

This paper finds that companies that maintain themselves in the public eye through press release activity disclose more information than other companies. However there is no evidence to suggest that disclosure content is moderated by financial performance. Companies that obtained external financing one year after the accident made more disclosure than other companies. The significance of the external financing variable is evident when disclosure is restricted to discretionary or non‐financial items, but disappears if the dependent variable represents mandatory financial items.

Research limitations/implications

The paper shoes that while Ullmann addressed the matter of actual social responsibility performance, in addition to disclosure, this paper does not examine performance. Furthermore, press release activity is only one type of strategic posture. Future work that employs some other measure may yield additional insight into the decision‐making process.

Originality/value

Prior study of Ullmann's work has not considered the interactive impact of profit and strategic posture. Furthermore, the actual nature of the disclosure, voluntary versus mandatory, has not been specifically examined. This paper addresses both of these issues.
Private social, ethical and environmental disclosure
Authors: Solomon Jill Frances , Solomon Aris
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which social, ethical and environmental (SEE) disclosure is being integrated into institutional investment. The aim is also to investigate the interplay between private and public SEE disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a grounded theory methodology involving interviews with 21 members of the UK institutional adjustment community.

Findings

The paper found that institutional investors did not consider that public SEE disclosure was adequate for their portfolio investment decisions, suggesting that SEE disclosure was decision‐useful. Consequently, this perceived market failure in public SEE disclosure has been supplemented by the development of sophisticated private SEE disclosure channels. Further, the interviews indicated that this private SEE disclosure process was becoming dialogic in nature, since not only were institutional investors initiating the engagement process with companies but also companies were starting to request information on the SEE disclosure required by institutional investors. This finding contrasts with previous work which found that the private disclosure process in financial reporting was essentially user‐oriented and uni‐directional.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the importance of SEE disclosure to a crucial user group, institutional investors. The research contributes to the SEE disclosure literature by revealing details of the evolving private SEE disclosure process for the first time.
Learning from the migration to lead‐free solder
Authors: Ciocci Richard , Pecht Michael
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to characterize the motivations used into migrating to lead‐free solder by providing examples and directions for those making the material change.

Design/methodology/approach

This work achieves its objective of identifying which electronic industry actions towards lead‐free soldering have been successful and why. The research reported the various motivating factors considered in adopting lead‐free electronics. To that end, the authors researched industry literature and discussed approaches with various companies and agencies. The scope of this paper is largely the board‐component level soldering process and companies involved in the international electronics industry.

Findings

The motivation to migrate to lead‐free solder has been and continues to be multi‐faceted. Issues include regulatory, commercial, and technical. Processing with lead‐free solder is successful, so the electronics industry's move towards environmentally compatible processes will meet regulated dates for change.

Practical implications

A company can learn how to incorporate environmental improvement principles resulting from the migration to lead‐free solder. Using that migration as a case study, the company can realize additional benefits by applying these principles to other product lines. Those interested in developing environmentally friendly products and processes can adopt the lessons that this paper identifies. Incorporation of lead‐free techniques, rather than resistance to change, is the result of adopting the lessons.

Originality/value

The paper presents a synopsis of the electronic industry's migration to lead‐free products and processes. It compares motivations for change that other studies have not compared. Manufacturers searching for direction and example to meet waste minimization goals will find the paper useful in providing such.
Critical contractual issues of outsourced operation and maintenance service for commercial buildings
Authors: Lai Joseph H.K. , Yik Francis W.H. , Jones Phil
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Building operation and maintenance (O&M) service, which embraces a wide range of specialist trades, has been increasingly outsourced through discrete contracts. This paper aims to study the issues critical to outsourced O&M contracts for commercial buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a transaction cost approach to analyse the findings from face‐to‐face interviews with 22 O&M practitioners in Hong Kong.

Findings

The analysis revealed that they practitioners generally had limited understanding about the concepts of contract. Lacking a standard form for O&M contracts, some contracts were formed rather loosely and irregularities in contract conditions are common. Disputes frequently arise from the scope of work although the practitioners considered well defined work scope is paramount to a successful contract.

Research limitations/implications

Besides the need to study how to improve practitioners' knowledge about O&M service contracts, further studies are required to investigate which or which combination of the contract concepts would be suitable for particular types of O&M contracts where their scale and complexity are dependent on the trade of work required to serve the building.

Originality/value

This paper uncovers a number of contractual issues that are critical to the performance of outsourced O&M service for commercial buildings.
Moving towards, into and through principalship: developing a framework for researching the career trajectories of school leaders
Authors: Stevenson Howard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper seeks to develop a conceptual framework capable of informing future research into beginning principalship in diverse cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on recent literature, and specifically drawing on contributions to this Special Issue, the paper explores the relationship between externally generated pressures and tensions facing beginning principals and their influence on principal socialisation and development.

Findings

The paper identifies tensions between increasing pressure on schools to meet a diverse range of social objectives and a context of high‐pressure accountability, limited resources and increasing institutional and systemic complexity uncertainty. Beginning principals face the difficult task of having to reconcile these tensions and in some contexts there is emerging evidence of this impacting on a crisis in principal supply. The paper argues that if systemic problems of supply are to be addressed educational researchers need to develop more sophisticated ways of understanding what factors shape individuals' career paths as they move towards, into and through principalship. One such approach is discussed that integrates the concepts of personal socialisation, professional identity and career trajectory and links these to wider contextual issues.

Originality/value

The paper presents a conceptual framework to underpin future research into the early years of principalship.
Student satisfaction and quality of service in Italian universities
Authors: Petruzzellis Luca , D'Uggento Angela Maria , Romanazzi Salvatore
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In order to face the new competitive scenario, Italian universities are involved in a change process and are trying to adopt an entrepreneurial approach to better serve their customers/students. The paper aims to assess university performance by testing student satisfaction. It tries to provide universities with some solutions to improve its performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The case of the University of Bari has been analysed by interviewing a random (but well stratified) sample of students in order to test their satisfaction concerning services provided and quality perceived. Reasons why students decide to enrol at the University of Bari are also investigated.

Findings

Universities have to concentrate their efforts on the improvement of quality of teaching and non‐teaching services, in order to promptly respond to the target, and foster a stronger relationship with surrounding economic and productive systems.

Research implications/limitations

Universities need to adopt a customer centric approach. Future research should analyse the reform period experienced by the Italian University system, in order to investigate student satisfaction concerning recent changes. Moreover, a cross‐country analysis of student satisfaction, through the servqual questionnaire, would be interesting.

Practical implications

Student satisfaction at the University of Bari is higher for working students that are not interested in “additional” services. On the contrary, several improvements are perceived as urgent concerning non‐core services provided, in which regular students are very interested.

Originality/value

This paper provides a wide analysis of the services perception tested and viewed through student eyes.
Bank service quality: evidence from five Balkan countries
Authors: Glaveli Niki , Petridou Eugenia , Liassides Chris , Spathis Charalambos
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Despite the rapid growth and internationalisation of services and financial services in particular, managers realise that to successfully leverage service quality as a global competitive tool, they first need to correctly identify the antecedents of what the international consumer perceives as service quality. This paper aims to examine the differences: in perceptions of service quality; and in the ranking of quality dimension between the bank customers of five Balkan countries: Greece, Bulgaria, Albania, FYROM and Serbia.

Design/methodology/approach

Bahia and Nantel proposed a specific scale for measuring perceived service quality in retail banking consisting of six dimensions of service quality: effectiveness and assurance; access; price; tangibles; service portfolio; and reliability. This instrument was used for collecting data in the context of banking services from the five Balkan countries. T‐test and factor analysis were employed to answer the research questions.

Findings

The results suggest that Greek customers perceived receiving the highest level of service quality. Differences and similarities between the countries were also reported related to the degree of importance attached to the BSQ dimensions of service quality.

Practical implications

The results have significant implications for banks in developing operational, marketing and human resource strategies in the Balkan context.

Originality/value

The international bank managers need to understand the value of environmental differences between countries in terms of economic development, political situation, socio‐cultural system and the level of sector maturity. Accordingly they can emphasise the various dimensions of service quality differently and in addition focus on commonalities to introduce quality initiatives in the Balkans.
Mass customisation implementation models and customer value in mobile phones services
Authors: Sigala Marianna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyse the mass customisation strategies (MC) developed by mobile phone operators and to identify the types of customer value perceived by mobile phone users that customise services to their profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

A customer‐centre approach was adopted for analyzing MC strategies that enhance both extrinsic and intrinsic customer value. A convenience sample was surveyed for gathering data regarding the customer value dimensions perceived by users of customised mobile phone services in Greece.

Findings

Findings revealed that MC strategies that are customer centred are vital as, users of customised mobile phone services perceive both “give” and “get” customer value dimensions. As MC does not come for free, to persuade customers to get involved and invest time and effort in value chain operations for designing customised services, companies need to identify and provide enhanced customer values.

Research limitations/implications

Research findings have great implications in the new service development processes and marketing – communication strategies of mass customisers. Due to the small sample size, future research should test the wider and global generalisability of findings.

Practical implications

Findings help practitioners increase the adoption and use of mass customised mobile phone services by providing insight on how to: develop MC strategies from a customer‐centric perspective; and conduct a customer value‐based market segmentation for enhancing marketing effectiveness and MC customer adoption.

Originality/value

The MC literature is dominated by operation‐supplier approaches to MC strategies in the manufacturing sector. In services, customer involvement in value chain operations is also significant. The study contributes by suggesting a customer‐centric approach for developing MC in services that enhances customer value. The study also extends and adapts a multi‐dimensional construct for measuring customer value in customisable mobile phone services environments.
Raising school attendance: a case study of good practice in monitoring and raising standards
Authors: Reid Ken
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to discuss the issue of managing and reducing school absenteeism and truancy.

Design/methodology/approach

The article proposes the development and implementation of some long‐term strategic approaches to tackling truancy and other forms of non‐attendance from school. This article focuses on the innovative School‐Based Scheme (SBS).

Findings

The article proposes methods which are relatively easy to organise, implement, monitor and evaluate. It can be used in both primary and secondary schools and/or throughout all schools within a local education authority.

Research limitations/implications

Preliminary evaluations suggest that it has improved attendance rates by over 4 per cent throughout all schools in one local education authority (LEA).

Practical implications

A high proportion of schools throughout England and Wales are below the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) targets either for overall levels of attendance, or for levels of authorised or unauthorised absence within both the primary and secondary sectors. The approaches proposed would address such issues.

Originality/value

It is hoped that the article will be of particular interest and help to head teachers, senior and middle management in schools, learning mentors, classroom assistants, home‐school liaison officers, principal and senior education welfare officers and appropriate local education authority staff, especially those pastoral and management staff who have day‐to‐day dealings with pupils like absentees and truants.
Designing a system for observation of teaching
Authors: Washer Peter
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on observation of teaching in a Higher Education (HE) context with a view to proposing some guidelines for the design and practice of institutional systems to observe teaching.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review and a proposed model for a system of observation of teaching with practical suggestions for managing the process and the information that results from implementation.

Findings

Practice in this area across the HE sector remains patchy and frequently cursory, despite the benefits that may follow from implementation of such systems, namely improved teaching and thus student learning.

Originality/value

This article synthesises best practice guidelines and proposes a three‐stage process to be adopted to help ensure that lecturers (and their students) gain the maximum benefit from being observed.
Quality and assessment in context: a brief review
Authors: Koslowski Fred A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a general review for USA and international academic faculty and administrators of the dominant themes and history of quality and assessment in both industry and Higher Education, and how they relate to each other in order to stimulate and encourage debate as well as influence policy.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of published works (1976‐2005) in both the fields of industrial quality and quality and assessment in higher education are reviewed and arranged contextually so as to tell a collective “story” about their origins, similarities, and differences. This general review provides the reader with a structured historical examination of these concepts with practical emphasis on potential lessons learned.

Findings

Provides information on the major quality theorists and relates the types of quality (as defined in industrial terms) to the enterprise of higher education. Even more important, quality and assessment are defined within the context of US higher education. Though the terms are debatable, what is certain is that increased competitive pressure, finite individual and institutional resources, and increased demand for universal access, have made assessing the quality of higher education a major public, private, and international concern.

Originality/value

The value of this paper lies in its simple, yet comprehensive treatment of the subject‐matter. There is an information gap between industry and higher education and, as such, many lessons are lost. With an increasingly turbulent higher education environment, academic leaders and faculty, regardless of nationality, should consider the collective context of quality and assessment as more than an account of things past or present, but as a guide to planning, leading, and ultimately assessing future calls for reform.