bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETAILING TO EXPERIENCED AND INEXPERIENCED CONSUMERS: A
PERCEIVED RISK APPROACH
Authors: Mitchell V‐W. , Prince G.S.
Published: May 2006

Since consumers are being provided with ever‐increasing amounts of
information, there is an increasing need to study the way in which they
handle purchasing information. Investigates the effect of buy‐frequency
on one theory of consumer decision making: Perceived Risk Theory. Survey
data from 100 consumers revealed that in general perceived risk
decreased as buy‐frequency increased, but only for high‐value products
and services and not as much as expected. High‐value services showed
considerably less risk decrease as buy‐frequency increased than did
high‐value products, possibly due to their heterogeneity. Experienced
purchasers place more emphasis on pre‐purchase product trial and
purchasing well‐known brands for high‐value goods and store image and
brand loyalty for low‐value goods, than inexperienced purchasers.
Discusses the implications for perceived risk measurement as well as
retailing.
MALE GROCERY SHOPPERS′ ATTITUDES AND DEMOGRAPHICS
Authors: Piper William S. , Capella Louis M.
Published: May 2006

Presents the results of research on male grocery shoppers′ (MGS)
attitudes, behaviour and demographics. Demographic data are used as
independent variables and differences in attitude and behaviour towards
the grocery shopping task are observed. Preferences for the task, list
preparation and task participation are the three dependent variables.
The results show that different demographic characteristics account for
changes in MGS attitudes and behaviour towards the grocery shopping
task. Proposes implications for strategy development.
MICRO‐SCALE RETAIL LOCATION: CINDERELLA OR UGLY SISTER?
Authors: Brown Stephen
Published: May 2006

Although the issue of retail location has attracted a great deal of
academic attention, the bulk of this literature pertains to the
national, regional and urban scales of analysis. An equally important,
but comparatively neglected, consideration is micro‐scale retail
location; that is, location within planned shopping centres and
unplanned shopping districts. Summarizes the existing literature on
retail location at the micro‐scale and asks whether it is in fact a
“cinderella” subject – unappreciated but with much to
offer – or an “ugly sister”, unworthy of serious
attention.
MEASURES OF PRODUCT ATTRACTIVENESS AND THE THEORY OF
CONSTRAINTS
Authors: Gardiner Stanley C.
Published: May 2006

Direct product profitability (DPP) is a performance measure that
was designed to show each SKU′s contribution to profit. Used by food
retailers to assist with shelf‐space allocation and pricing decisions,
DPP has been adopted only very slowly since it was first implemented in
1979. Operators cite DPP′s labour‐intensity and complexity as barriers
to its use. Shows that, besides being difficult to implement, DPP
distorts a product′s contribution to profit. Drawing from the theory of
constraints, a systems management philosophy, develops measures that
accurately reflect a product′s contribution to profit and compares these
to DPP using data from a major supermarket chain. The measures are
simple and can be implemented easily on existing space management
systems.
RETAILER‐SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS IN THE FOOD CHANNEL: A
SUPPLIER PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Hogarth‐Scott Sandra , Parkinson Stephen T.
Published: May 2006

Changes in the European retailing marketplace are having an impact
on relationships between retailers and their suppliers. Concentration of
sales to fewer, larger and more powerful retailers, the growth of own
label brands, and the operational and marketing benefits of retailer
information technology, all affect the relationship between retailers
and their suppliers. These trends are seen at their most extreme in the
UK market, which is seen by many as a model for the future of the rest
of Europe. In this emerging trading environment, the issues of
collaboration versus conflict, documented in research in retailing since
the 1950s, take on a particular focus and importance. Looks at these
issues from the perspective of 11 manufacturers, each of which deals
with the same significant retailer in the UK. Examines the relevance of
the constructs of power, conflict and co‐operation in the UK food
channel from the supplier′s perspective; the manufacturer′s response to
powerful buyers in the channel; and the impact of information technology
on channel relationships. Concludes with recommendations to
manufacturers on managing key accounts in the new environment.
EVALUATION OF NEW PRODUCTS BY NEW ZEALAND SUPERMARKET
RETAIL GROCERY BUYERS
Authors: Thomas W.A. , Marr Norman E.
Published: May 2006

Little has been written about the evaluative aspects of new product
decisions within the broad reseller market. Reports a study, prior to
which no known information existed about New Zealand retail grocery
buyers′ evaluations of new products, procedures followed or importance
attached to various criteria as pertaining acceptance or rejection
decisions. Fourteen in‐depth interviews with management and buyers, and
a subsequent mail questionnaire to 47 potential respondents involving
their assessment of the importance attached to criteria in accept or
reject decisions were undertaken. Results suggest the application of
both “hard” and “soft” core sets of criteria
which embody the evaluation of product, supplier and presenter. These
criteria are applied to as many as 2,000 products per year, most of
which are at the “duplication” end of the new product
continuum. Ranks of criteria, and hence assumed central importance, vary
depending on the treatment applied, though not a great deal of variation
between buyers is suggested. While this may be the case, the company one
represents and the use or non‐use of a ranging committee seemingly play
a determining influence.
PLASTIC CARD CRIME AND FRAUD PREVENTION
Authors: Gould Martyn
Published: May 2006

Argues that plastic card usage has risen dramatically over the last
ten years, and that this increased use has led to an increase in plastic
card crime. The Association for Payment Clearing Services (APACS) runs a
nationwide Card Watch campaign, an education awareness programme which
targets groups vulnerable to card crime such as women and motorists. The
campaign also works in partnership with retail organizations and
agencies such as the police, with a focus on card security and
technology and the implementation of measures to make the distribution
of cards more secure. The retail arena is particularly significant as
three‐quarters of all plastic card fraud is committed at point of sale.
Increased authorizations and the new UK National Merchant Alert Service
will save millions, and research into new fraud prevention technology at
point of sale is progressing. Retail assistance in helping to prevent
card crime is vital. The banking industry awarded more than £7
million in 1992 to retail staff who stopped fraudulent transactions.
RETAIL GROSS MARGINS: SOME INTERNATIONAL COMPARISONS
Authors: O′Riordan Don
Published: May 2006

Compares the gross margins on a range of retail business categories
across six European Community countries and the USA, using data derived
from official national statistics. Results show that the USA had the
highest gross margins for most comparable categories, followed by
Britain, and Ireland had the lowest margins in nearly every category.
These margin differences did not have a strong correlation with GDP per
head of population. Discusses several limitations of both the data and
their interpretation. Argues that gross margin as a percentage of retail
sales is a useful comparative measure of the gross cost of the retail
function. Queries the relevance of the output measure value added to
micro‐economic analysis, in the context of increased externalization of
services and labour.
WOMEN’S FRUSTRATION WITH AND INFLUENCE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT
MANAGEMENT IN THE UK: AN INVESTIGATION FROM A WOMAN MANAGER’S
PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Maddock Su
Published: May 2006

Looks at the frustrations of women managers within local government
management in the UK over a period from 1989 to 1992. Forty women
managers were intensively interviewed, and they unanimously agreed that
gender relations at work affected not only them personally but also
their work. The majority said that the gendered institutions and culture
of their authorities encouraged a lack of planning and attention to
detail, a lack of responsibility and a tendency to compete and blame
colleagues. They perceived this as being damaging to services and staff.
In the past this culture has rendered many women managers ineffectual
and demoralized. However, by 1992 many more women had reached senior
positions in local government and were beginning to transform their
organizations by dismantling formal management structures and
restructuring towards more open forms of management and shared values.
All the women interviewed are aged between 35 and 50 and worked in
Northern metropolitan authorities.
DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WORKING WOMEN IN JAPAN: A HUMAN
RIGHTS MANAGEMENT POLICY ISSUE
Authors: Munchus George
Published: May 2006

Primarily analyses, on the basis of data available, the extent to
which working women in Japan are discriminated against in the business
world. Discusses sexual discrimination against Japanese women in job
opportunity, job assignment, opportunity for promotion, wages,
on‐the‐job training, and retirement age. Also includes a summary on the
recent Equal Employment Opportunity Law and illustrates the attempt of
the Japanese Government to eliminate discrimination in the workplace.
POSITIVE ACTION FOR WOMEN IN NORTHERN IRELAND
Authors: Murphy Pauline
Published: May 2006

An Innovatory Action Research Project was initiated in 1987 at the
University of Ulster, Jordanstown, Northern Ireland, to address the
problem of women′s under‐representation in key areas, including
management and new technology. A new course for women, integrating
personal and professional development, was designed and validated by the
University of Ulster. Twenty‐five unemployed women were selected each
year to attend this one‐year training project, which was evaluated with
respect to the following criteria – effectiveness in relation to
employment, self‐employment or continuing education; in developing
leadership skills; in developing competence in information technology;
entrance criteria as predictors of success on the course and in
subsequent employment; employers′ views on the course and on potential
employment of women; effects of participation on relationships within
the family; barriers to learning for women. The outcome was positive.
Additional EC funding ensured the continuation of the course for another
three years, now in transnational partnership with other European
programmes and this year introducing a specialism in telematics. The
hybrid managers have arrived – and some are women!
MAKING IT TO THE TOP: SPECIFIC LEADERSHIP SKILLS – A COMPARISON OF MALE AND FEMALE PERCEPTIONS OF SKILLS NEEDED BY WOMEN AND MEN MANAGERS
Authors: Baack Jane , Carr‐Ruffino Norma , Pelletier Monique
Published: May 2006

Discusses general skills clusters identified by other researchers
as necessary for leadership success. Reports a US study by questionnaire
survey on the specific skills viewed by male and female managers as
essential for top management posts. Reveals a great deal of agreement,
but women as well as men harbour stereotypes of women as being less able
to handle their emotions under stress, less career‐committed and not
such good team‐players.
QUO VADIS, WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT?
Authors: Still Leonie V.
Published: May 2006

Two research studies, conducted in 1984 and 1992 respectively,
examined the position of women in management within the Australian
private sector to determine if women had made occupational progress or,
like some other groups, had regressed or just maintained a status quo
position. The results revealed that women had not improved their
position in management over the nine‐year period. While there were more
women in supervisory positions, there were fewer women in all levels of
management. Some shifts had been made by the women in their management
functional areas‐that is a movement out of “soft” management
areas and into more mainstream areas, while women were also being given
more opportunities to attend both internal and external training
programmes sponsored by their organizations. However, women managers had
still not achieved pay parity, while fewer women were receiving
promotion to management or within management compared with 1984. Nor
were any major improvements seen in the numbers of women being sent on
“élite” management training programmes. The
research concluded that women′s progress in management was
“stalled” within these Australian companies. Women had two
options, if they wished to achieve the ultimate in their careers. They
could leave and open their own business, but risk further
marginalization owing to the nature of their self‐employment. Or they
could stay and attempt to change the organizational culture by enlisting
the support of other managerial women as well as policy makers. A
“renaissance” in both policy and strategy is needed, if
Australian managerial women are going to achieve their full potential
within the Australian commercial and corporate sector.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IN THE 1990s: CONTRADICTORY DEVELOPMENTS
IN A CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Kramer Robin
Published: May 2006

The principle of discrimination‐free behaviour has been established
in Australia as the basis for behaviour in organizations. This principle
forms the basis of affirmative action legislation and is integrated into
industrial relations legislation. Some employers in Australia have
recognized that a situation which is free from discrimination and
provides equal employment opportunity requires an acknowledgement of the
impact of family responsibilities on work behaviour. This has resulted
in the implementation of initiatives designed to accommodate work and
family needs of employees. However, despite the more general
acknowledgement among employers of the value of employing women in a
range of positions, developments in the industrial relations arena could
threaten the continued creation of equal employment opportunity.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT FOR WOMEN: SOME AUSTRALIAN INITIATIVES
Authors: Smith Catherine R.
Published: May 2006

Recognizing changing demographics and the importance of balancing
the workforce, proactive organizations are now pursuing deliberate
strategies to improve women′s employment and career opportunities for
women at all levels of industry. Describes some parallel Australian
initiatives. These include moves to facilitate the combination of work
and family responsibilities, particularly beneficial for women. These
initiatives bode well for women′s career development generally, and
particularly within the realms of senior management.
COMPETENCES OF AUSTRALIAN WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT
Authors: Vilkinas Tricia , Cartan Greg
Published: May 2006

Focuses on women managers and the competences which they need, if
they are to be effective managers. Also addresses the question whether
effective male and female managers need different competences. Finally,
looks to the future for the competences required of effective managers
in the twenty‐first century.
TRAINING FOR WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT: THE AUSTRALIAN CONTEXT
Authors: Limerick Brigid , Heywood Eileen
Published: May 2006

The representation of women in management hierarchies in Australia,
as throughout the world, is increasing. However, women are still not
reaching top management levels and face a variety of pressures, both
internal and external, to the organization in which they work. For women
to operate at their optimum level of management skill it is important
that they be encouraged to develop their management style within
supportive learning cultures. Reports on the research leading up to and
the establishment of a Women in Management Programme at the Queensland
University of Technology. The rationale for such programmes is that the
maximization of all our human resources is essential, if we are to
manage effectively in the changing world of the twentieth century.
THE EFFECT OF GENDER‐BASED TRAINING ON SELECTION DECISIONS
Authors: Reavley Martha A. , Naughton Thomas J.
Published: May 2006

Reports on a study which sought to test the impact of gender‐based
training experiences on selection decisions. Subjects evaluated the
credentials of a job candidate for a management position. The training
experiences of the three candidates were manipulated so that a third of
the applicant materials were described as relating to a female with
gender‐based or “women‐only” training; another third of the
materials were described as belonging to a female with gender‐neutral
training; and a final third were labelled as male with gender‐neutral
training. Results suggest that female candidates whose training is not
gender based may be viewed more positively because their behaviours
appear more consistent with the male socialization view. Discusses the
implications of these findings for women in management training and for
managerial selection.
THE WORK/FAMILY INTERFACE: CHALLENGING “CORPORATE CONVENIENT”
Authors: Schein Virginia E.
Published: May 2006

Despite the high interest in work/family issues, little attention
has been paid to changing the design and structure of managerial work so
as to facilitate the work/family interface. Outdated work designs and
unquestioned assumptions about “how things are done” may be
a significant barrier to women′s advancement in management. Proposes
that human resource management professionals need to examine managerial
work from the perspective: “What activities and demands are
′corporate convenient′ and what are job related?” Discusses the
implications of challenging corporate convenient requirements.
WOMEN AND MANAGEMENT IN ENGINEERING: THE “GLASS CEILING” FOR WOMEN’S CAREERS
Authors: Evetts Julia
Published: May 2006

Considers some of the problems which management presents for
women′s careers in professional engineering. Using careers history data
from 15 women engaged in professional engineering work in a high
technology industrial organization, certain aspects of their promotion
progress are examined. The interaction of aspects such as the women′s
aspirations and certain organizational processes were producing
particular consequences for the women′s careers. The women managers′
careers illustrated the difficult cultural decisions which these women
had had to make. Concludes with a discussion of the possibilities for
change in the emerging gendered patterns of engineering careers.
EMPOWERING WOMEN MANAGERS IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Authors: Morley Louise
Published: May 2006

Based on the author′s research, training and consultancy with women
managers in the Education and Health sectors, focuses on the
deconstruction of external factors which disempower women managers in
the workplace, and the extent to which these interact with women′s
internalized narratives. Raises questions about women managers′
relationship to the transition from welfare to market values in the
public sector in Britain. Evaluates the empowerment of women in
management in the context of understanding the complex relationships
between institutional, personal and interpersonal barriers to women′s
leadership.
The Environmental Disasters of the Future Will Be More and
Worse but the Prospect Is Not Hopeless
Authors: Quarantelli E.L.
Published: May 2006

States that on the global scene, but particularly in modern
societies, we are inevitably faced with more and worse disasters in the
future because of the industrialization and urbanization inherent in the
very structure of modern social life. Industrialization almost assures
that disaster agents and occasions will increase. Urbanization is
raising the risks and vulnerabilities of affected populations and
societies. Posits that to recognize these upcoming transmutations in
disasters is not to argue that nothing can be done by way of disaster
planning. Argues that a clear recognition of the reality of what is very
likely to occur in the twenty‐first century will allow more effective
and efficient disaster planning than we have had up to now.
Beyond the Safety Programme
Authors: Gillingham D. , Blanco J.A. , Blanco H. , Cameron B. , McDonald S.
Published: May 2006

Describes a unique experiment in safety management which has led to
a significant improvement in the safety performance of work groups at
the smelter of INCO Ltd in Sudbury, Canada.
A Comparative Analysis of Organizational Response to
Traumatic Stress among Workers in the Aftermath of Crisis
Authors: Barton Laurence , Braverman Mark , Braverman Susan
Published: May 2006

Analyses the psychological harm to employees in the aftermath of
workplace trauma and the comparative responses of managers at two large
corporations where workers were traumatized. Notes that individual
responses to acute trauma vary considerably; some employees deny
symptoms of anxiety which are manifest after a troublesome event, while
others openly seek counselling. Similarly, the responses of executives
towards the management of workplace trauma also differ. Points out that
with US worker compensation claims increasing by 100 per cent in the
past six years there is a clarion need for management to examine how
well they have prepared their entire staff for the potentiality that a
traumatic event could cause chaos for all levels of the organization.
A System for Local Authority Management in a Major
Emergency
Authors: Mountain Ronald H.
Published: May 2006

Begins with a brief overview of the various forms of preparation
for major emergencies which are typically undertaken by local
authorities. Argues that in addition to the usual range of preparations,
an emergency management system is required which facilitates strategic
decision making, management, and co‐ordination which are responsive to
the uncertainty and rapidly changing conditions of an emergency.
Describes specific activities which are required to address a major
emergency. Outlines a model system with specific emergency management
posts and responsibilities.
Information to the Public Following a Nuclear Emergency: A
Role for Local Authorities
Authors: Murray L.G. , Greenwood T.K.
Published: May 2006

In the days immediately following the Chernobyl accident in 1986,
agencies within Cumbria, including local authority departments, were met
with an unprecedented range and volume of enquiries which staff were
often ill‐equipped to deal with. In order to minimize the potential for
conflicting advice being given to the public in the event of any future
accident on that scale, a Nuclear Information Plan was prepared.
Describes arrangements which have been exercised in Cumbria for the
collection and dissemination of information concerning a nuclear
accident where no actual radiological countermeasures are required but
where conditions of public alarm have been created.
A Low‐cost Scheme for Local Radiation Monitoring
Authors: Moule D.G.
Published: May 2006

The response to the deposition of radioactive material over the
United Kingdom from Chernobyl, in 1986, demonstrated the inadequacy of
arrangements at that time for the monitoring of radiation and the
subsequent dissemination of public information and advice. As a result,
a low cost scheme for local radiation monitoring was developed in
Surrey, using two forms of monitoring: environmental monitoring of
background radiation dose rate, and monitoring of radioactivity in food
and non‐food products. The scheme commenced operation in April 1990 and
the results for the first three years are presented. Details of costs
are examined and conclusions drawn as to the scientific credibility and
cost effectiveness of the scheme. Results show that radiation levels in
Surrey are of low radiological significance and that none of the results
gives any cause for public concern.
The Effects of Paramilitary Discipline on the Psychology of
Fire‐fighters
Authors: Ko Yu‐chun , Kao Henry S.R.
Published: May 2006

Examines individuals′ psychological responses towards paramilitary
discipline. Reports on a study which followed 145 recruit firemen (RFn)
throughout their six‐month initial training in Hong Kong Fire Services
Training School. California Psychological Inventory (CPI) was
administered to the subjects on their very first and final days of stay
in the academy. The findings support the theoretical assumption that
paramilitary fire services training changes one′s personality.
Post‐paramilitary training personality (PPMTP) was identified. CPI
dimensions typifying PPMTP are decreasing levels in sense of well‐being,
responsibility, socialization, self‐achievement via conformance,
self‐control, good impression, communality and increasing levels in the
dimensions of capacity for status and flexibility. Except capacity for
status, all PPMTP dimensions are negatively related to RFns′
satisfaction and work stress in the academy. It is believed that the
dysfunctional nature of PPMTP is due to the deleterious effects of
strict military‐like discipline on the psychology of subjects.
Risk Communication on a National Scale: The Dutch Way
Authors: Quint J.G.H.
Published: May 2006

Risk communication is first and foremost a local responsibility
and, in The Netherlands, the Ministry of Home Affairs therefore
stimulated local government to start their campaigns. Of the
municipalities, 95 per cent participated in Risk Communication. A
national campaign to strengthen and support these local campaigns
started in March 1993. A clear strategy that covers all possible risks,
including nuclear and industrial disasters, and co‐operation between
governments at all levels is a necessity for effective national
coverage.
Local Offices of Emergency Preparedness (LEMA) Belief in
Disaster Mythology: What Has Changed and Why?
Authors: Fischer Henry W. , Drain Eric M.
Published: May 2006

The local emergency management directors (n=54) from a
midwestern state (USA) were surveyed to determine how accurately they
understood behavioural response to disaster, which disaster myths they
most often believed, and if education, disaster experience, and EMS work
experiences were associated with a more accurate understanding of the
behavioural response problems commonly encountered during a disaster.
The respondents performed better on a disaster knowledge scale than did
their predecessors a decade and a half earlier, which suggests that
education and training have had an encouraging impact. However, they
averaged only a 65 per cent (the equivalent of a “D”) on the
disaster knowledge scale. They continued to believe that citizens will
panic and behave irrationally in other ways, that survivors will not
prepare or know what to do, and that the initial damage, injury and
death estimates are very accurate. On the other hand, they understood
that survivors, EMS workers, and others usually behave altruistically in
numerous ways. Education, training and experience were found to be
associated with a more accurate perception of the behavioural response
to disaster. A response rate of 61 per cent was attained after two
mailings.
A Tool for Information Security Management
Authors: van de Haar H. , von Solms R.
Published: May 2006

Top management is responsible for the wellbeing of the
organization. Most organizations nowadays are dependent totally on the
availability and effectiveness of their information service resources.
For this reason it is imperative that top management gets involved and
stays involved in the protection of the information service assets of
the organization. This can only be accomplished through a process of
continuous information security evaluation and reporting. An information
security evaluation and reporting tool, representing the information
security status in a concise, clear manner, will help a great deal in
ensuring top management involvement. Suggests implementation of an
information security management model by means of an evaluation tool.
This tool will provide top management with information security status
reporting in a clear, non‐technical format.
STAR and Economic Regeneration: Some Feedback from Northern
Ireland
Authors: Martin William J. , Armstrong Michael
Published: May 2006

Reports recent work on the impact of the European STAR programme on
the process of economic regeneration in Northern Ireland. Seeks to draw
lessons from the Northern Ireland experience which may be applied
elsewhere. Reports responses among the business community to the STAR
programme and in particular the impact of the fibre opticbased
transmission and switching facilities it has provided. In considering
the overall impact of STAR on the job market, comparisons are drawn with
elsewhere in the UK. The main conclusion is that in promoting the
virtues of advanced telecommunications services, much greater attention
must be paid to the business benefits involved and also, to making
facilities such as ISDN more user friendly and competitive.
Current IS Practices within UK‐based Organizations
Authors: Fidler Christine , Rogerson Simon , Spiers Nicola
Published: May 2006

The evolving information systems (IS) field has been the subject of
much research and observation in recent years. Much of the work has been
US based. By contrast, this empirical survey analyses the current state
of IS practices within UK‐based organizations. The survey evaluates the
extent of computer usage within the UK at a general level, as well as
focusing on specific areas such as management support systems, IS
strategic planning and strategic alignment of business and IS. Where
possible, compares the results of this survey with previous surveys and
forecasts, and analyses differences. Identifies topics worthy of further
investigation.
The 1992 Profile of Computer Abuse in Australia: Part 2
Authors: Kamay Vic , Adams Tony
Published: May 2006

Analyses some of the 497 cases of computer abuse recorded by the
Australian Computer Abuse Research Bureau, since its inception in 1978.
Features include perpetrators and the law, and computer abuse by
industry.
Information: The Seventh Management Function?
Authors: Bakewell K.G.B.
Published: May 2006

Contends that information should be added to the six management
functions enunciated by Henri Fayol in 1916. Considers some problems of
information: the awareness problem; government neglect of the
information function; inadequate indexing; poor administration in
libraries; and information overload. Discusses the potential of
information technology and pays attention to the difficulties
experienced by developing countries.
Business Continuity Planning in a Distributed Downsized
Environment
Authors: Fitzgerald Kevin J.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the change in business continuity planning when
centralized mainframe computing environments are replaced by
decentralized server/workstation/minicomputer environments.
Telecommunications emerges as both the “soft spot” and the
major challenge to strategy planners.
Does IT Matter When Companies Merge?
Authors: Hamilton Ross
Published: May 2006

A group of financial services companies which had recently merged
were questioned to determine how differences in IT systems affected
merger implementation. Results showed that all but one of the companies
believed the IT factor was the most important aspect at the pre‐merger
planning stage. Post‐merger, generally IT seemed to be less important
than expected, the systems differences had not slowed down company
integration but new systems development was affected. Although not all
companies had estimated systems mergers costs beforehand, none found
these actual costs were higher than anticipated. In only one example was
IT systems merger the main determinant of full company merger.
A Taxonomy of Executive Information Systems: Let the 4 Cs
Penetrate the Fog
Authors: Edwards C. , Peppard J.W.
Published: May 2006

Develops a classification of executive information systems. (EIS).
EIS implementations cluster into four distinct groups, called the 4 Cs:
Conglomerate; control and monitoring; competitive and intelligence;
communication and efficiency. Explores the characteristics of the
classes within this taxonomy. Argues, among other things, that the
objective use of EIS can be considered as a strategic management aid to
top management teams.
DataComms 2000: A Strategic Exploration of a Transforming
Industry
Authors: Bird Andrew , Blaney Tom , Burton John
Published: May 2006

Data communications is a relatively neglected topic, which is
surprising as it offers the infrastructural platform that can help to
provide organizations with flexibility and responsiveness. DataComms
2000 explores the business themes and issues, and technology drivers and
focus that will shape the industry. Explores the perspectives of a range
of different actors.
Information, Communication and Innovation: Identifying Critical Innovation Factors (CIF)
Authors: Johannessen Jon‐Arild , Olaisen Johan
Published: May 2006

Surveys existing literature pertaining to the role of communication and information in generating innovation in organizations, aiming to organize innovation literature, coupled with information and communication in organizations, around critical innovation factors in the various phases of the information process, and asking, principally, what critical innovation factors, coupled with information and communication, exist in the various phases of an innovation process? Finally, systematizes the literature in a model displaying CIF in relation to the above question.
Legal Aspects of the Human Genome Project: Reflections on
the Bilbao Conference
Authors: Kirby Justice Michael
Published: May 2006

Reports on the International Workshop on Legal Aspects of the Human
Genome Project, held in Bilbao, Spain, on 24‐26 May 1993, and attended
by leading scientists, administrators, lawyers and academics, and by
James Watson who discovered DNA′s double helix. Briefly outlines
contributions by various speakers covering such topics as; the right to
confidentiality in the use of genetic information; culpability for
criminality; patents and intellectual property; insurance law; legal
limits on genetic experimentation; identification by genetic testing;
and labour relations.
Dreams Come True with Password Genie
Authors: Cresson Wood Charles
Published: May 2006

Suggests that computer passwords can pose a major computer security
risk, as password guessing is the most prevalent and effective method of
system penetration. Introduces a new computer package which can address
this problem by generating difficult‐to‐guess passwords by removing
human judgement from the password construction process.
Marketing Strategies for Mature Brands
Authors: Evans Joel R. , Lombardo Gregg
Published: May 2006

Many companies are placing greater emphasis today on the marketing
of their mature brands. Notes several reasons for that trend persisting
well into the future. Little has been written about how companies can
more methodically plan and enact marketing strategies for these brands.
Addresses the marketing of mature brands by: (1) providing a guide to
the key (and sometimes misunderstood) terms involved with branding
decisions; (2) describing a continuum comprised of ten strategic
alternatives available to firms with mature brands; and (3) presenting
recommendations as to when best to apply the various strategic
alternatives.
Commentary: Unlocking the Brand Asset Vault
Authors: Selame Elinor
Published: May 2006

Discusses, with many illustrative examples, the concept of brand
worth, the definition of a brand and strategic branding options.
Presents three case studies.
Price Signaling: Does it Ever Work?
Authors: Alpert Frank , Wilson Beth , Elliott Michael T.
Published: May 2006

Examines the phenomenon of “price signalling”, whereby
consumer goods manufacturers attempt to signal higher quality via a
higher price when objective product quality is, in fact, not
demonstrably superior. A study of two similar facial moisturizers showed
that higher price alone did not succeed in signalling higher quality, but
that higher price accompanied by premium‐quality signals in the other
elements of the marketing mix (advertising, packaging, in‐store
location) does succeed. To put it more generally, a “premium
pricing strategy” cannot be successful if price is the only
marketing variable emphasized. Brand managers should therefore think in
terms of a “premium quality positioning” that requires the
application of quality cues across the marketing mix.
Brand Performance Comparatives
Authors: Chapman Randall G.
Published: May 2006

In traditional importance‐performance analysis, self‐reported
relative importance weights and “own” brand performance
ratings are combined to yield assessments of current market standing.
Discusses the pressing need for comparatives to avoid major problems in
brand performance assessments within traditional importance‐performance
analysis. These comparatives ideally include performance assessments of
competitors′ brands, although several other possibilities exist: norms
provided by “own” brand past performance, comparison to an
“ideal brand”, and segment comparisons.
Breadth of Coverage for Intellectual Property Law
Authors: Alpert Frank
Published: May 2006

Innovation policy has received little attention in the business
press. The business press generally focusses on how to play the game of
new products best, rather than considering how the rules of the game
might be changed. Might it be possible to stimulate more innovation by
reforming intellectual property law? A growing part of the economy (e.g.
services, information technology) is only weakly protected under current
intellectual property law. One possible way to encourage innovation is
by extending coverage to these products, broadening legal protection to
cover new product ideas for a short period. Small companies and
individual entrepreneurs would benefit most from this broader but
shorter protection.
Commentary: A Strategic Execution Process for Launching New Products
Authors: Verba Stephen M.
Published: May 2006

Marketing managers in high technology and information industries
are a victim of paradigms, processes and tools developed out of the mass
market packaged good industries. These constitute an implicit set of
“rules of engagement” by which such marketers are
constrained. Posits a new set of “rules of engagement” from
the macro level of “core competency” versus SBUs to the
micro level of long interviews and semiotics versus traditional focus
groups. These are concatenated into an alternate process for new product
testing and development.
Product Adaptability: Assessment and Strategy
Authors: McKee Daryl O. , Konell Sid
Published: May 2006

Market dynamics are generating rapid product change and increasing
the uncertainties of product management. As a result, the need for
product adaptability has never been greater. Yet marketing managers lack
a framework for evaluating product adaptability. Examines product
adaptability in terms of two underlying dimensions: product domain
(single versus multiple product) and performance criteria (internal
versus external). This results in a framework that includes four basic
types of product flexibility: acceptability (single‐product flexibility
based on external criteria, e.g. customer acceptance); modifiability
(single‐product flexibility based on internal criteria, e.g. production
efficiency); leveragability (multiple‐product flexibility based on
external criteria); and compatability (multiple‐product flexibility
based on internal criteria). Using this framework, identifies specific
factors that lead to product adaptability and proposes a method for
product assessment.
Five Lethal Product Development and Diversification Traps
Authors: Valentin E.K.
Published: May 2006

Posits that to minimize new‐product miscues, executives must
understand more than the marketplace. They also must understand how
behavioral forces shape new‐product decisions and the lethal traps that
lie along the path leading from a product′s inception to its successful
commercialization. Suggests that such knowledge is no less important
than understanding customers, competitors, and market trends. Focusses
attention on five insidious behavioral traps and offers suggestions for
averting pitfalls inherent in making product‐development and
diversification decisions.
Brand Equity in the Business‐to‐Business Sector
Authors: Gordon Geoffrey L. , Gordon Geoffrey L. , Calantone Roger J. , di Benedetto C. Anthony , Calantone Roger J. , di Benedetto C. Anthony
Published: May 2006

Posits a stagewise learning process involved in the building of
brand equity: brand birth; the creation of brand awareness and
associations; the building of quality and value perceptions; the
emergence of brand loyalty; and the launching of brand extensions. Also
reports on an empirical study which explored the evolution, existence
and extensibility of brand equity in a particular business‐to‐business
market. Concludes with practical implications for managers in
business‐to‐business product or service firms.
The Pursuit of Marketing Productivity
Authors: Ailloni‐Charas Dan
Published: May 2006

Marketing realities in the packaged goods industry are changing
rapidly as the channels of distribution become increasingly dominant in
dictating both marketing strategies and process emphasis. Inevitably
they require us to rethink both underlying concepts and practices.
Seeking marketing cost‐efficiencies, especially in squeezing costs out
of the distribution system in order to regain a measure of control,
manufacturers are shifting away from the earlier acceptance of the
broadly defined marketing concept to a narrower definition of a
marketing productivity concept.
Winning Share from a Dominant Competitor in a Slow‐growth Consumer Market
Authors: Smith D.K. (Skip) , Weber William
Published: May 2006

Winning market share in a major market from a deeply‐entrenched
dominant competitor is a tough challenge. Uses Nielsen data on
channel‐specific market shares for Brand A and its leading competitor in
a major US market to suggest one strategy a marketing manager might use
to accomplish that objective. The dependent variable is relatively
market share. The independent variables, based on the reference price
and advertising share of voice literatures, relate current levels of
price and promotional activity for Brand A and the dominant competitor
to historical levels of price and promotional activity for the two
competitors. A multiple regression analysis of the data indicates that
the independent variables are significantly related to the relative
market share dependent variable. Provides examples of the effect as well
as heuristics flowing from the analysis.
Customers, Management, and Resources
Authors: Anne Raymond Mary , Ellis Brien
Published: May 2006

Examines the existing literature and utilizes it along with input
from industry executives to identify the major factors in the success
and failure of new consumer products and services. Offers specific
managerial implications and recommendations for firms and for marketing
researchers to help improve the probability of success in the
development and introduction of new products and services.
GAPS IN CORPORATE TRANSFORMATION
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin
Published: May 2006

Today′s managers have an unprecedented opportunity to transform the
capacity of companies, harness the talents of people and deliver value
to customers. Managerial productivity could be increased by a factor of
ten or more. This is not wild speculation, but a tantalizing prospect.
CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Authors: Caple Laurie
Published: May 2006

The management of change in a high profile public service with more
than its fair share of political influences, demonstrates the scale of
change possible, given a clear strategy and a strong managerial
commitment. This leads to high productivity, quality and value for
money, with a strong element of organizational loyalty and ownership of
the end product.
LEARNING FROM COLLEAGUES, CUSTOMERS AND COMPETITORS
Authors: Margerison Charles
Published: May 2006

Learning from others must be planned in such a way that there is
maximum co‐operation and goodwill. Managers will, no doubt have to make
presentations to their colleagues and discussions will be needed to
decide on how to influence others to get decisions made. The higher up
in the organization, the more necessary it is to build a political
network in order to influence decision making.
LEARNING COMMUNITY FOR THE NORTH‐EAST
Authors: King Stephen
Published: May 2006

The concept of creating a dynamic self‐help, multi‐interest
partnership of employers, training and HR professionals, and
educationalists which share best practice and develops a federal
framework for management learning, is addressed by the North‐East′s MCI
network.
DEVELOPING MANAGERS FOR THE EUROPEAN MARKET
Authors: Osbaldeston Michael
Published: May 2006

Across Europe organizations in industry and education are grappling
with the problem of identifying and developing the “competent
international manager” who has the skills and abilities
appropriate to the changing demands of a new business era. These
organizations share one thing in common – a strong belief in the
strategic importance of human knowledge.
INVESTING IN PEOPLE AT SAINSBURY’S
Authors: Evans Judith
Published: May 2006

A significant emphasis on investing in people by training and
development, plus the use of job sharing, nursery provision and
part‐time working which ensures a high, staff retention rate, all
contribute to making Sainsbury′s the UK′s leading supermarket retailer.
THE OFFSHORE FOCUS: MANAGEMENT QUALITY, SAFETY AND PEOPLE
Authors: Griffiths John
Published: May 2006

The UK’s North Sea offshore industry has had a traumatic five years
from cycles of reduced demand and volatile oil prices to serious
accidents on platforms and helicopter flights. The introduction of BS
safety standards will inevitably help in raising quality criteria
throughout the industry.
TOP TEAMS AND STRATEGIC CHANGE
Authors: Alderson Siobhan , Kakabadse Andrew
Published: May 2006

Based on research at Cranfield School of Management, involving 36
organizations in the UK, USA, Ireland, Greece and France and thousands
of European executives, addresses such questions as: What does vision
mean at the top? What is required for consistent success as a top
manager? What does the word “team” really mean at the top?
What does it take to perform well as a top team and as an individual in
a top team? Indicates that the top team is crucial to strategic decision
making and change, and to moulding effective teams and sharing
organizational visions, and gives suggestions for individual team
executive development.
DRAMA AS A LEARNING MEDIUM
Authors: Davies Geoff , Hancock Roger
Published: May 2006

Points out that the success or failure of a business can depend on
the quality of the interpersonal relationships within it, and that
three‐quarters of a manager′s time may be spent on such interactions.
Details a new approach to improving interpersonal skills, based on drama
as a learning medium. Suggests that such a technique has many advantages
over role‐play and video, and outlines a workshop session, using this
technique, and its rationale.
SUCCESS FACTORS IN MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Margerison Charles
Published: May 2006

Suggests that management development is always hard to measure,
made more difficult, in some cases, by the fact that trainers are not
aware of what to look for in the first place. Outlines eight key issues
which need to be addressed to ascertain effective best practice
including: selecting the right people; support from top management;
managerial involvement in diagnosing needs; designing practical,
work‐related development activities; actual leadership experience;
self‐review; follow‐up; and accountability.
MENTORING AND FLEXIBLE TRAINING
Authors: Spooner Adrian
Published: May 2006

Defines “flexible training”, suggesting that such a
process must include management, monitoring, administration, assessment,
learning materials, and human support. Stresses that human support is
vital if such training is to succeed, and suggests that mentoring
fulfils this function. Describes the mentor′s role and outlines the
benefits to be derived by promoting such activities.