bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meaning and context of participation in five European countries
Authors: Szabo Erna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarise the findings of a qualitative cross‐cultural study of participation in managerial decision making.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper theme‐focused interviews were conducted with middle managers in five European countries and the transcripts were analysed using elements of the grounded theory method. In the context of the current study, grounded theory served as a suitable method for detecting both general patterns and country‐specific particularities.

Findings

The findings of the present study suggest that country‐specific models of participation exist which is embedded in broader country‐ and culture‐specific concepts. In addition, decision type, time‐related issues and conflict emerge from the study as the main general context factors influencing managerial choices on the use of participation. The comparison of the current qualitative findings with earlier quantitative research suggests a good match with two of the studies (that investigated participatory behaviour in context) but not the third (that investigated participatory values).

Research limitations/implications

The exploratory character of the study imposes certain limitations on its findings which could be addressed in future research by studying other countries and cohorts and possibly by employing additional or different types of methodology.

Practical implications

The qualitative study findings are of interest to organisations engaging in business relations abroad as well as to individual expatriates in each of the five European countries included in the study.

Originality/value

In contrast to earlier quantitative studies with a similar focus, this research initiative explores the meaning and enactment of participation from a holistic perspective, taking context factors into account and integrating the findings into earlier research.
Program: a record of the first 40 years of electronic library and information systems
Authors: Tedd Lucy A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a broad overview of the history of the journal Program: electronic library and information systems and its contents over its first 40 years.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of content from the original published material, as well as from abstracting and indexing publications and from minutes of Editorial Board meetings.

Findings

The publication has grown from modest beginnings as a newsletter for UK university librarians to a respected refereed journal with a wide international readership.

Originality/value

An analysis of the content of articles published on computer systems in libraries and information units over the last 40 years.
Data migration from DOBIS/LIBIS to Horizon: experiences from the KFUPM Library in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khurshid Zahiruddin , Mostafa Kadry Hamed
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To share the experiences in data migration of the KFUPM Library with libraries planning to move from legacy systems such as DOBIS/LIBIS to third‐generation systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A detailed analysis of DOBIS/LIBIS data structure, data extraction, including data mining, and data conversion of bibliographic, non‐bibliographic and bilingual data was carried out to provide maximum information to libraries about the complexities of source data and how to overcome them.

Findings

The majority of the problems came from the lack of full MARC support in DOBIS/LIBIS and because of some local practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to the KFUPM library experience in data conversion from DOBIS/LIBIS to Horizon.

Practical implications

This study will have implications for libraries still operating under legacy systems. They are expected to be informed by the KFUPM library experience and hopefully will work on migrating to a new system sooner than later. On the other hand, libraries in the Middle East will receive encouragement from the authors' experience and will feel some relief that, despite the complexities of bilingual data, they have a good example to follow.

Originality/value

This is the first study of data conversion in the Middle East and has enormous value for libraries still struggling with legacy systems. Following the KFUPM library example, they can now plan for their own system and data migration.
Introducing RFID at Middlesex University Learning Resources
Authors: Hopkinson Alan , Chandrakar Rajesh
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To describe the first year of the implementation of radio frequency identification (RFID) in Middlesex University Learning Resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The technology is explained in detail to set the scene. Information on the implementation is presented in chronological order.

Findings

Problems which would generally be applicable to other installations in these early days of the use of RFID in libraries are pointed out.

Practical implications

It is possible to implement RFID without too much lead time, although, had longer been available, some aspects would have gone more smoothly.

Originality/value

Contains valuable information for other libraries considering or intending to introduce RFID.
HACCP workshops – practical guidance for small fast food businesses
Authors: Worsfold Denise
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the
utility of a food hygiene management system training workshop and guidance
pack to help small fast food businesses comply with new legal requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

A pre‐course questionnaire
was used to determine knowledge and attitudes towards food safety management
systems. Levels of compliance with best practice on operating hygiene management
systems were assessed. A series of workshops were delivered and evaluated
by means of a post‐course questionnaire.

Findings

Although
some of the businesses had elementary prerequisite programmes in place prior
to the workshop, there was limited understanding of the requirements of good
hygiene practice and food safety management systems. There was little documentation
and a low level of hygiene training. Trainees welcomed the practical guidance
provided by the course and materials. Both were rated positively, with the
highest satisfaction being demonstrated by those with traditional businesses
that were best served by the sector specific training materials. Most of the
businesses asserted that they would require additional support, if they were
going to implement and document the system fully.

Research limitations/implications

Small sample size.

Practical implications

Materials
for use with small businesses need to be specifically developed for each industry
sector, as businesses have little ability to produce their own documentation.
Training and support materials need to be jargon free with information on
good hygiene practices in addition food hygiene management materials.

Originality/value

Adds to the debate on the best methods to
be used to assist small food businesses comply with new legislation.
Mini nutritional assessment in the elderly: living alone, with family and nursing home in Turkey
Authors: Sanlier Nevin , Yabanci Nurcan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study was aimed at assessing the anthropometry and the nutritional status of a sample of the elderly in Turkey. It was designed as a cross‐sectional study using the mini nutritional assessment (MNA) scores to assess the nutritional status of the elderly living alone, with their family, and in nursing homes.

Design/methodology/approach

The work was planned and carried out so as to assess nutritional status and MNA of 429 elderly people, aged 65 years and over living with their family (n  =  246), in nursing homes (n  =  127) or alone (n  =  56). Body weight, height, mid upper arm and calf circumference of elderly people was measured and they were asked personal questions. The list of questions included if the person pursues an independent life, the number of meals and food groups they consumed, the answers of which were scored and then assessed. With regard to MNA scale, a score of <17 is regarded as an indication of malnutrition, 17–23.5 indicates a sign for malnutrition risk and 24 and higher signifies normal level. The data were analysed with SPSS 10.0 for Windows. Means, standard deviations and cross tabulation tables were used as descriptive statistics. Pearson's correlation coefficients were determined in correlation analysis.

Findings

A statistical analysis of the scores shows that 5.4 per cent of the elderly people living alone, 2.4 per cent of those living in nursing homes and 0.4 per cent living with families could be regarded as malnourished. It was also found that elderly people living in nursing homes have more risk for malnutrition. MNA scores, based on measurements such as body weight, BMI (body mass index) and mid upper arm indicated a significant correlation with the malnutrition.

Practical implications

MNA appears to be a practical and reliable method to assess the nutritional status of elderly people and more importance should be attached to those living alone or in nursing homes to prevent their nutritional problems.

Originality/value

Assesses the nutritional status of the elderly living alone, with their family or in nursing homes in Turkey.
Shear strength of a fluid in the whole ranges of pressure and temperature
Authors: Zhang Y.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Seeks to study the dependence of the shear strength of a fluid on the fluid pressure and the bulk fluid temperature, respectively, theoretically for given bulk fluid temperatures and fluid pressures in the whole ranges of fluid pressure and bulk fluid temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

The analyses are, respectively, carried out with emphasis on the dependence of the shear strength of a fluid in liquid state, i.e. at low pressures on the fluid pressure and the bulk fluid temperature for given bulk fluid temperatures and fluid pressures based on the theory of the compression of the fluid by the pressurization of the fluid.

Findings

The fluid shear strength versus fluid pressure curve in the whole range of fluid pressure and the fluid shear strength versus bulk fluid temperature curve in the whole range of bulk fluid temperature, respectively, for a given bulk fluid temperature and a given fluid pressure are obtained. It is shown by this fluid shear strength versus fluid pressure curve that, for a given bulk fluid temperature, when the fluid is in liquid state, i.e. at low pressures, the value of the shear strength of the fluid is insensitive to the variation of the pressure of the fluid and is low: when the fluid is in solidification state, i.e. at medium and high but not extremely high pressures, the value of the shear strength of the fluid is the most sensitive to the variation of the pressure of the fluid and is very approximately linearly increased with the increase of the pressure of the fluid; when the fluid is in high solidification state, i.e. at extremely high pressures, the value of the shear strength of the fluid is insensitive to the variation of the pressure of the fluid and is the highest, i.e. approaches the value of the shear strength of the fluid in solid state.

Originality/value

Extends one's knowledge of the shear strength of a fluid in the while ranges of pressure and temperature.
Context dependent learning: its value and impact for workplace education
Authors: Lynch Richard , Leo Soon , Downing Kevin
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how a management development programme based on situated learning theory resulted in change for individuals, organisational culture and performance. The case study illustrates how new understandings about learning in the workplace and in higher education points towards the need to take account of the context in which learners utilise their knowledge and skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative strategies were used to provide an evaluation of the impact of a management development programme in a group of companies. A questionnaire, focus groups and semi‐structured interviews were used to collect data on three cohorts of supervisors and middle managers at different stages of the programme. A triangulated approach was adopted towards data analysis that illuminated a broad and deep change process.

Findings

Positive cultural change was a significant benefit to the host organisation from the training programme. It was apparent that training can move beyond individual development to bring about organisational gains.

Research limitations/implications

Future research might adopt a longitudinal design and facilitate a co‐researcher approach using students' learning logs of workplace experiences.

Practical implications

Situated approaches to learning in higher education and the workplace need to be developed further to enhance workplace performance. A proposal is made for “learning consultants” to move between the two environments and facilitate knowledge exchange and improve understanding of the variety of learning contexts in business and educational settings.

Originality/value

A data driven case study on the relationship between training, culture and organisational performance suggests that new approaches to learning require partnerships between the worlds of work and university that traverses theory, practice and personnel.
Entrepreneurial characteristics amongst university students
Authors: Gürol Yonca , Atsan Nuray
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to explore the entrepreneurship profile of Turkish university students and to make an evaluation for their entrepreneurship orientation by comparing them with non‐entrepreneurially inclined students.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, six traits, namely need for achievement, locus of control, risk taking propensity, tolerance for ambiguity, innovativeness and self‐confidence, are used to define the entrepreneurial profile of students. The study is conducted on a random sample of fourth year university students (n = 400) from two Turkish universities. The question “what are you planning to do after graduation?” was asked to students in order to discriminate between those who are entrepreneurially inclined and those who are not. Respondents who have a response saying that “I'm planning to form my own business venture” are accepted as potential entrepreneurs. Then, the entrepreneurial traits of these students are subjected to a comparative analysis with other students who do not plan to start their own businesses, and thus are not included in the group of potential entrepreneurs. In short, a 40‐item questionnaire is administered to students, with questions related to demographic variables, entrepreneurial inclination, and six entrepreneurial traits above cited (with Likert type items).

Findings

The results of the t‐tests showed that, except for tolerance for ambiguity and self‐confidence, all entrepreneurial traits are found to be higher in entrepreneurially inclined students, as compared to entrepreneurially non‐inclined students. That is, these students are found to have higher risk taking propensity, internal locus of control, higher need for achievement and higher innovativeness.

Research limitations/implications

The study comprises fourth year students only, and the percentage of students in the sample who wish to be entrepreneurs is quite low (18 per cent). Also, there are only two universities included in the sample. Further study can be conducted on a wider basis to lead to more general conclusions.

Practical implications

This study provides insight into entrepreneurship education, as to which entrepreneurial characteristics can be developed to raise good entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the differences between characteristics of entrepreneurially inclined and non‐inclined students at the edge of graduation.
A case study of action learning in an MBA program
Authors: Johnson Craig , Spicer David Philip
Published: July 2006

Purpose – Action learning has long been a recognized mechanism for ensuring deep and effective learning. The purpose of this paper is to describe an MBA program where the approach to study is informed and driven by action learning. Design methodology/approach – The nature, ethos, and theoretical foundations of this degree are described. Action learning principles are outlined, the design of the course is described and its contribution to participants and their organizations considered. Findings – The effectiveness of an action learning approach in management education is demonstrated through consideration of the program, the nature of the learning experience it entails, students' experiences and their uptake of learning, examples of which are discussed in the paper. Research limitations/implications – The paper shows how a program can be formulated with action learning at its core and some of the implications of doing so. It also discusses the impact that action learning has on the effectiveness of participants in the workplace. Originality/value – Take‐up of an action learning approach in formal management education has been slow, the paper offers a unique example of how this can be integral to a course and lead individuals to develop new managerial mindsets.
Temporary work and human resources management: issues, challenges and responses
Authors: Burgess John , Connell Julia
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the special issue volume that examines a range of concerns, challenges and responses relating to temporary workers and human resource management (HRM).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper highlights eight key research questions and describes the structure of the issue. The various articles investigate six main areas: the rationale for using temporary workers rather than permanent workers; factors determining types of temporary work arrangements; the rationale for temp workers entering into temporary employment; the nature and extent of the relationship between TWAs and user firms; the relationship between employment regulations and an organisation's labour use patterns of temporary workers and the HR challenges associated with ongoing and extensive use of temporary workers.

Findings

Findings varied according to the main focus of each paper. It is evident, however, that no one perspective, public policy or organisational strategy is likely to fit all situations in relation to temporary work and HRM. Many differences exist in the skill levels of temp workers, their demographic characteristics and reasons for undertaking temp work. Likewise, as pointed out by many of the authors included in this volume, there are also differences within user firms with regard to their reasons for employing temps.

Originality/value

There is a paucity of literature examining temporary work and HRM and this issue endeavours to fill that gap and may prompt further research.
The nature and experience of agency working in Britain
Authors: Forde Chris , Slater Gary
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine the experience of agency employment for workers and employers' use of agency workers in Britain to evaluate competing claims made about this form of work.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on results from three recent representative surveys of employment in Britain to examine the current nature and experience of agency work: the Labour Force Survey; the Workplace Employment Relations Survey and the Working in Britain, 2000 Survey.

Findings

The findings indicate that there is little evidence of the purported association between agency work and the emergence of the “knowledge economy”, as suggested by some. Turning to employers' use of agency labour, it is found that this has been driven by pressures relating to labour costs, possibly reflecting short‐term considerations. As for workers' experience of agency employment, this paper reports their dissatisfaction with many aspects of agency work, resulting in low levels of commitment and high anxiety about their work situation.

Practical implications

Whilst the use of agency workers may provide short‐term benefits for organisations there is considerable evidence that, in the absence of remedial action, a number of challenges are likely to emerge for human resource practitioners. In particular, organisations may incur longer‐term costs through extensive utilisation of employment agency labour.

Originality/value

Agency work has grown rapidly but little is known about short‐term experiences or longer term implications. The paper fills a gap in knowledge about the current nature of agency work, and provides an empirical assessment of competing claims about this form of work
Human resource solutions?
Authors: Stanworth Celia , Druker Janet
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The article seeks to explain the rapid increase in the use of agency “temps” by employers during the 1990s. It tests the thesis of profound change in employers' labour use decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was from in‐depth interviews with human resource/line managers in 12 work organisations in the UK responsible for decisions on use of temporary agency labour. Organisations were chosen to include a variety of industrial sectors, sizes and locations.

Findings

Although there were common trends in organisations, including declining numbers of permanent jobs and waves of restructuring, organisations varied in their approach: it was not always profound change. The paper finds four distinct types of agency labour use and developed a 2 × 2 typology, depending on whether employers were acting strategically or reactively, and whether they were using temps for supplementation, or more far‐reaching substitution, for permanent workers.

Research limitations/implications

Research is based on UK data and is a “snapshot” of the situation. However, the typology can be used to analyse temporary agency labour usage in other settings and time periods.

Practical implications

The findings could be used by human resource managers to assist them in making decisions on use of agency workers.

Originality/value

The paper makes associations between external and internal contexts within which organisations operate and how these affect decisions on temporary agency labour usage.
The changing world of the temporary worker: the potential HR impact of legislation
Authors: Biggs David , Burchell Brendan , Millmore Mike
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Temporary workers have many human resource and labour market implications. These consequences are further influenced with the introduction of new legislation relating to temporary workers. The purpose of this article is to present research on the impacts of the legislation – Fixed Term Employees Regulations and Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations – on temporary workers in the labour force.

Design/methodology/approach

Information from 24 Labour Force Surveys, conducted between December 1997 and November 2003, were analysed with two longitudinal Labour Force Surveys. Qualitative data was also gathered from six temporary worker employers and 17 agency workers.

Findings

Analysis of data demonstrated that the utilisation of temporary workers had declined in the labour force: Temporary workers had decreased in real terms by 24 per cent and agency workers who were less regulated by only 11 per cent. Also, an increased take‐up of permanent work by temporary workers was found post‐legislation (27 per cent) compared with pre‐legislation (22 per cent).

Research limitations/implications

Some limitations exist in the study using National Statistics and qualitative data to analyse labour force dynamics. Further research is warranted in this area investigating how strategic decisions in utilising temporary workers are formed and how recent legislation has influenced these policies.

Practical implications

Changes in temporary worker legislation have direct consequences to the labour force.

Originality/value

The paper reveals the decline of temporary workers in the labour force between 1997 and 2003 and examines specific legislation, which may have influenced this phenomenon.
Information uncommon: public computing in the life of reference
Authors: Hein Karen K.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a perspective on the role of public computing in the daily operations of reference services at an academic library.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview of approaches to managing and supporting public computing workstations in academic libraries, in general, is provided. Specific aspects of operations at the University of Nebraska at Omaha Library are presented.

Findings

Challenges and opportunities associated with reference's role in providing support for technology are identified.

Practical implications

Other academic libraries may find this helpful as they consider the management and support required when providing public computing workstations to patrons.

Originality/value

This paper provides a public service perspective on managing technology in an academic library. Specifically, an alternative approach to other management models is highlighted using the University of Nebraska at Omaha Library as an example.
Teaching faculty's perspectives on business information literacy
Authors: Wu Yuhfen Diana , Lee Kendall Susan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Effective integration of information literacy skills into the business curriculum requires the development of collaborative partnerships between teaching faculty and librarians. Developing a good partnership requires an understanding of the teaching faculty's perspectives. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was sent to business teaching faculty at California State Universities to determine their expectations in regards to student information literacy skills.

Findings

Writing a report or project that required in‐depth research is one of the major expectations. All faculty surveyed expect students to use library research for their assignments.

Originality/value

Business faculty and librarians will be able to use these findings in developing guidelines to integrate information literacy into coursework, assignments and research tools.
Using humor in library instruction
Authors: Walker Billie E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To demonstrate that humor can be used as a teaching technique by instruction librarians.

Design/methodology/approach

Since some students have what Constance Mellon refers to as library anxiety, humor can be used as a teaching tool to help reduce this feeling. Using the literature of higher education, this article seeks to provide practical advice on ways to use humor in the library instruction setting.

Findings

The use of real‐life humorous examples demonstrates that teaching librarians can reap the benefits of using humor in the classroom. The article dispels the myth that one must be a comedian to use humor in the classroom.

Practical implications

The teaching librarian can add the use of humor as a teaching tool along with other techniques to assist in reducing library anxiety, promote classroom environment and help students to get more comfortable with the library's many resources.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the discussion on the use of humor in library instruction as one method to help reduce library anxiety in students. It offers practical help to the instruction librarian.
New forms of information literacy
Authors: Leigh Matoush Toby
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide an overview of innovative information literacy programs at San Jose State University King Library which may serve as models for future academic library information literacy programs.

Design/methodology/approach

New and innovative information literacy programs at the San Jose State University King Library are discussed and analyzed. These programs include freshman and transfer student literacy programs and a proposal for campus dormitory information literacy.

Findings

Analyzes innovative and multi‐faceted character of San Jose State King Library information literacy programs. Discusses successes, lessons learned, and ongoing challenges of the freshman information literacy program and presents goals and objectives of the transfer and campus dormitory information literacy programs.

Practical implications

This paper may serve as a guide for both academic and joint‐use academic and public libraries interested in assessing or expanding their information literacy programs.

Originality/value

This paper discusses innovative information literacy programs within the context of a merged or joint‐use academic and public library and will be of value to both future joint‐use libraries and academic libraries interested in expanding and evaluating their information literacy programs.
Communication in academic libraries: an East Asian perspective
Authors: Zhang Li
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To discuss library services with attention to effective communication between public service professionals and East Asian library clientele.

Design/methodology/approach

A wide range of library literature (1984‐2001) about serving international students is reviewed to provide a portrait of efforts made by librarians and researchers. This article then focuses on East Asian students as a unique group based on shared cultural values, applies literature of East Asian/Western communication styles to library reference services, and discusses how cultural‐specific communication styles can cause misunderstandings in information delivery processes. Recommendations are made to assist information professionals in their efforts to communicate effectively with international students and meet their information needs.

Findings

Differences in communication styles can often create barriers to having messages understood correctly. As a result, the information conveyed does not necessarily reflect the intention and may even cause misunderstandings. The key to successful cross‐cultural communication is knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

Further research should be conducted in addressing how cultural awareness affects effective and appropriate communication.

Practical implications

This paper will be helpful for public service professionals in enhancing their understanding of East Asian cultures and improving communication skills when assisting customers of East Asian backgrounds.

Originality/value

This paper separates East Asian students from the entire international student body, examines cultural‐specific communication styles, and explains why misunderstanding occurs when Western librarians communicating with East Asian students.
Retrospective conversion of serials and card catalogue records
Authors: Darko‐Ampem Kwasi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the application of project management principles to retrospective conversion of a library catalogue and to share the experience with other libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents the case of retrospective conversion involving the conversion of card catalogue records and the serials automation at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology Library of the University of Botswana.

Findings

Highlights project management concepts as a means of managing library projects for the optimum benefit of the institution, staff and patrons.

Research limitations/implications

The project involved the conversion of 10,000 manual records and the automation of 250 current journals.

Practical implications

Identifies constraints such as staffing, training and retraining; equipment malfunction and access to online resources; and conflict of work priorities.

Originality/value

A case study of project management applications in academic libraries. Both projects involved project scheduling, staff training, scheduling of duties, and writing of in‐house manuals, all based on project management principles.
A review of factors affecting individual performance in team environments
Authors: O'Connor Matthew
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This review aims to compile an interdisciplinary inventory of factors affecting individual performance in team environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Research focusing on the performance of the individual within a team from the disciplines of psychology, sociology, business, and library science was analyzed and synthesized. Five online aggregators and a combination of keyword/subject terms were used to locate the research originating primarily from journal literature.

Findings

After exploring the research, 12 different performance factors emerged in two primary categories: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic factors included collective efficacy, social rewards and sanctions, social dilemmas, social loafing, future interdependence, and social identity. Intrinsic factors included individual identity, desire to achieve, member role differences, team size, individual status attainment, and member commitment.

Originality/value

There is a substantial amount of research concerning team motivation and production, but there is an apparent dearth related to individual performance factors. This review provides valuable insight for library administrators currently working with teams in their organizations or for those considering it.
Complaining intentions and their relationships to complaining behavior of academic library users in South Korea
Authors: Oh Dong‐Geun
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influences of the selected antecedents on each type of complaining intentions and its relationship to complaining behavior of 582 university library users in South Korea.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a survey, using a convenience sample of 582 dissatisfied university library users from five major universities located in Taegu Metropolitan City and Kyoung‐pook Province in South Korea. The sample was proportionate to general users in the university libraries in these areas.

Findings

Perceived severity of dissatisfaction and personal norms had significant influences on the choice of negative word‐of‐mouth intention, direct and indirect voice intentions, and third‐party complaint intention. Societal benefits had significant influences on the choice of exit, negative word‐of‐mouth intention, and direct and indirect voice intentions. Difficulty of complaining and service importance had significant influences on negative word‐of‐mouth intention, and likelihood of success had significant influences on the direct and indirect voice intentions. There were significant relationships between experiences of doing the same types of complaining behavior before and the same types of complaining intentions.

Research limitations/implications

This study was exploratory inorder to separate complaining intentions from the complaining behavior itself. Some variables, including external attribution and loyalty, which were not proved to be critical variables for complaining intentions, need to be investigated further to investigate whether or not they can be a useful variable for complaining behavior and intentions of academic library users. Some results from this study did not confirm the results of the study on the public library users that measured the complaint behavior and intentions together. Compared with the results of the study on the public library users, the values of adjusted R square in the regression of each dependent variables were much higher in this study except for the case of exit intention.

Practical implications

This study proved that the complaining intention model, separated from complaining behavior, could successfully be applied to academic library services.

Originality/value

Opines that feedback information through complaints can solve many problems and/or improve performance and service quality – and eventually help libraries satisfy their customers.
Positive professional leaders: aspects to consider in leadership development
Authors: Mulec Katharina
Published: July 2006

Purpose– The purpose of this article is to make explicit a number of positive views that professionals have about assuming formal leadership positions and relating those aspects to leadership development.Design/methodology/approach– A total of 17 leaders in the pharmaceutical industry were interviewed about their perceptions of leadership. A challenging interview technique was developed in order to elicit reflections on leadership. The interviews were analysed with regard to content.Findings– The oxymoronic nature of professionals as leaders was confirmed but a more comprehensive picture was obtained. Positive aspects of the leadership role were identified: reward for good scientific work, increased influence over scientific processes, and tutoring and developing colleagues. Interest, curiosity and the ability to discuss and learn more about leadership were displayed. By drawing on the devotion to science, those positive aspects should be used in leadership development, e.g. relating scientific tutoring to leadership skills and clarifying the importance of leadership for successful scientific work. The activities should have a challenging approach.Research limitations/implications– The result might have been different if leaders from additional organisational levels, or from a less successful R&D site, had been interviewed.Practical implications– The increased merging of professional and leadership roles makes the findings important. Results are actionable in that human resource departments can take advantage of the findings when training and preparing scientists for leadership positions.Originality/value– This paper offers an alternative view of professionals in the leadership role to the view traditionally put forth in the literature.
LMX‐citizenship behavior relationship: justice as a mediator
Authors: Bhal Kanika T.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

It has been proposed that issues of justice and equity should be incorporated in the dyadic study of leadership (LMX) for predicting subordinate outcomes, as both the theories are based on social exchange. This research had two objectives: to assess the impact of two dimensions of LMX – contribution and affect – on citizenship behavior and to test the mediating impact of the three types of justice – distributive, procedural and interactional – on the LMX‐citizenship relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reports responses of 306 professionals from 30 software organizations operating in different parts of India. Data were collected on a structured questionnaire containing standard scales of LMX, citizenship behavior, distributive, procedural and interactional justice. After establishing the psychometric properties of the scales, hypotheses were tested through statistical analysis of the data. Proposed mediation hypotheses were tested using Baron and Kenny's recommendations.

Findings

Results indicate that contribution dimension of LMX is more likely to predict citizenship behavior than the affect dimension of LMX. Further, procedural and interactional justices fully mediate the relationship of perceived contribution with citizenship behavior. However, distributive justice does not mediate this relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of common method bias and cross sectional data are discussed in light of implications for future research. The results have implications for LMX enhancement interventions. In general enhancing work related interaction through guiding coaching or delegation can result in higher‐level employee outcomes.

Originality/value

Identifies how the two theories work in tandem to predict citizenship behavior.
Desired qualities of public library leaders
Authors: Mullins John , Linehan Margaret
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to add to the limited extant literature on public library leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the desired qualities and behaviours required for public library leaders by interviewing 30 senior librarians from Ireland, the UK and the east coast of the USA in order to develop an understanding of the perceptions of current leaders in the field of public librarianship. A review of the relevant literature was used to design an interview guide which was used to conduct structured in‐depth face‐to‐face interviews.

Findings

The findings illustrate that there is no universal or common behaviour, even within national boundaries, for effective public library leadership. Two‐thirds of the interviewees, however, prioritised attention to the implementation of vision – desired goals – as the most essential element of library leadership.

Practical implications

Demonstrates a lack of focus in the leadership problem in librarianship and the need for work to be devoted to the development of leaders. Shows that there is also an absence of success in planning.

Originality/value

The current study is the most in‐depth study to date on this topic, drawing on face‐to‐face interviews with 30 public library leaders. Prior to his study, no in‐depth face‐to‐face study on the topic of leadership in librarianship has been researched and published outside of North America. As this study was undertaken in three national jurisdictions – Ireland, the UK, and the USA – it is also the first interview‐based transnational study on the topic.
Research on embedded MAS based manipulator control
Authors: Ning Kejun
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Presents an embedded MAS (Multi‐Agent System) based control method for multi link series manipulators.

Design/methodology/approach

The manipulator's completing operation work is based on several agents' cooperation. The entire embedded MAS of a manipulator is implemented in one ARM7 microprocessor. The multi agents and the communications between the agents are constructed depending on the real‐time multitasking capability and the system services of real time operation system,μC/OS‐(tm). An improved distributed inverse kinematics algorithm, which is the foundation the agents' behavior strategies, and the system architecture designing are described in detail.

Findings

This method is very suitable for tele‐operation redundant manipulators' embedded control systems designing, with high reliability.

Research limitations/implications

Using this paradigm, the embedded system firmware development for a redundant manipulator would be very easy and the code would be reusable. A few amendments should be made for miscellaneous manipulators.

Practical implications

It is suitable for controlling a high reliability expected tele‐operation manipulator system.

Originality/value

The embedded MAS based manipulator control paradigm has several attractive advantages, led from MAS theory. Basing this method, we do not require computing the traditional inverse (or pseudoinverse) Jacobian matrix to control a redundant manipulator, especially for mobile redundant robot based on a compact embedded control system, expecting high reliability and potential complexity for coping with dynamical environments. The development procedure would be very easy and the code would be reusable. A few amendments should be made for different manipulators.
Automated processes for composite aircraft structure
Authors: Grant Carroll
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper provides a general review of automated processing methods currently being used to fabricate aircraft composite structure.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents a description of the Automated Tape Layer (ATL) process and the Fiber Placement (FP) process. These processes are the most “automated” of all processes being used to fabricate composite aircraft structure. Fiber Placement machines and Automated Tape Layers are composites machine tools and they are the closest comparison the composites industry has to metals machining equipment.

Findings

There is a need for more variety of composites automation and more affordable machines in the aerospace composites industry. The limited variety of automation and the cost of equipment tend to limit the spread of automation throughout the aerospace composites industry. ATL and FP are composites laminating technologies that could be adapted to a wide range of machine sizes, configurations, and price ranges.

Originality/value

More widespread use of automated processes in composites would tend to lower the cost of composite aircraft structure on a global basis.
Organisational adaptation processes to external complexity
Authors: Größler Andreas , Grübner André , Milling Peter M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Based on a conceptual framework of the linkages between strategic manufacturing goals and complexity, the purpose of this paper is to investigate adaptation processes in manufacturing firms to increasing external complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses are tested with statistical analyses (group comparisons and structural equation models) that are conducted with data from the third round of the International Manufacturing Strategy Survey.

Findings

The study shows that manufacturing firms face different degrees of complexity. Firms in a more complex environment tend to possess a more complex internal structure, as indicated by process configuration, than firms in a less complex environment. Also depending on the degree of complexity, different processes of adaptation to increases in external complexity are initiated by organisations.

Research limitations/implications

Research studies taking into account the dynamics of adaptation processes would be helpful in order to draw further conclusions, for instance, based on longitudinal analyses or simulation studies.

Practical implications

Depending on the level of complexity a firm has been confronted with in the past, different adaptation processes to further growing complexity can be initiated. Firms in high complexity environments have to re‐configure their strategic goals; firms in low complexity environments have to build‐up internal complexity to cope with demands from the outside.

Originality/value

The paper distinguishes between adaptation processes in low and high complexity environments and provides explanations for the differences.
Professional service acquisition in public sector procurement
Authors: Schiele Joseph J. , McCue Clifford P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to use a case‐based approach to develop an improved understanding of the conditions under which municipal purchasing departments can be meaningfully involved in acquisition processes for consulting services.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected at five Canadian municipalities and involved a detailed examination of ten cases where the supply function demonstrated meaningful involvement in the acquisition process.

Findings

Findings, along with organizational behavior literature on trust, were used to develop a conceptual model and tentative measurement scales that may be used to test the validity of the theory developed.

Originality/value

This work addresses the problem of low public sector purchasing department involvement in these important purchase decisions and some significant gaps in the public procurement literature.