bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value creation index:
Authors: Cohen Kalafut Pamela , Low Jonathan
Published: April 2007

There is increasing recognition of the importance of intangible assets. There is also a pressing need for a set of widely accepted metrics by which corporate leaders and the investment community can account for the non‐financial factors that affect value creation in the modern enterprise. Intangibles have always been a driver of corporate performance, and institutional investors take intangibles into account in their analysis and earnings estimates. Managers, by the same token, are increasingly adopting non‐traditional methodologies of measurement. The authors report on the work of Cap Gemini Ernst & Young researchers who have developed a rigorous, comprehensive model, the value creation index. The index combines the impact of key value drivers (e.g. innovation, quality, customer relations, management capabilities, alliances, technology, brand value, employee relations, and environmental and community issues) to form a single measure of non‐financial performance.
Ten strategies for survival in the attention economy
Authors: Berman Saul J. , McClellan Bennett E.
Published: April 2007

Vying for the attention of the time‐challenged, choice‐saturated consumer characterizes the thrust of competition for the coming five years. There will be a continuing explosion of new technologies and new ways to connect electronically. For the foreseeable future, demands for the consumer’s attention will continue to escalate. Consumers will gravitate to trusted brands to manage and filter the bombardment of choices. In the attention economy, therefore, consumers exert greater power to shape content and experiences. In response, companies will need to deploy a much more sophisticated electronic infrastructure to respond and, will also market to ever‐smaller, more finely targeted segments. Successful brand‐owning business models will form collaborative alliance networks. Development will center on strategies that capture the attention of selected targets through deep responsiveness to the consumer’s experience of the brand, and on new business models that respond proactively to the rise of digital media.
High‐tech 2005: the horizontal, hypercompetitive future
Authors: Kapur Vivek , Peters John , Berman Saul
Published: April 2007

Profound and lasting changes are afoot in the high‐tech industry. Only those high‐tech companies that align their business models for the new horizontal and hypercompetitive future will succeed. The seven deadly signs of the new competitive environment are: (1) growing downward pressure on price with an ever‐increasing demand for greater performance; (2) greater complexity for customers as they face the unbundling of hardware options, integration choices, and multi‐company business coordination; (3) a new distribution of value: greater value to innovative component makers and solution integrators; less value for product design and assembly; (4) branding and customer relationships will differentiate commodity products; (5) collaborative networks will emerge; (6) global supply and global customers will mean global organizations; (7) competitors will encroach horizontally. Recommendation: proceed with a five‐step approach to develop a new winning strategy: (1) pick a horizontal space; (2) redefine and Web‐enable your value propositions; (3) assemble your collaborative networks; (4) integrate your internal operations globally; and (5) realign your organization and technology. Studies demonstrate that during downturns, advantage shifts to companies that continue to invest strategically.
Exploring the reward preferences for middle level managers
Authors: Kominis George , Emmanuel Clive R.
Published: April 2007

Managerial motivation depends, in part, on the perceived value or attractiveness of the rewards offered to the manager. This perception‐based study provides empirical evidence of the associations between motivation and performance, and valued rewards. Generally, for this sample of 225 middle‐level managers, intrinsic rewards are more highly valued than extrinsic but higher motivation and performance is positively associated with a preference for a combination of rewards. Preference patterns by stage of career, position in the hierarchy or functional area are not detected. Whilst valued rewards appear to have an influence on motivation and performance, particularly when applied in combination, the determinants of preferences appear to be diverse.
Construct measurement of evaluative style: a review and proposal
Authors: Noeverman Jan , Koene Bas A.S. , Williams Roger
Published: April 2007

This paper focuses on the need to revise the conceptualisation and measurement of evaluative style in future Reliance on Accounting Performance Measures (RAPM) research. Based on a review of the existing literature, we identify a
number of issues in the conceptualisation and measurement of evaluative style and conclude that none of the existing measures is ideal for use in future research. We see two general dimensions of evaluative style that need specific attention in future research. The first dimension addresses the evaluative focus of the superior (e.g. budgets, other quantitative targets, short or long‐term targets, etc.). The second dimension addresses the superior’s way of handling
the evaluation process (e.g. rigid or flexible, fixing blame, using it as a learning opportunity, etc.). Building on these two dimensions, there i a need for studies that assess how specific performance measures are used in different way within a particular organisational context, enabling a distinction between the design and the use of control tools. These conclusions suggest a need for qualitative indepth field studies within single organisations rather than quantitative survey
research across organisations in future research on evaluative style and its behavioural consequences.
The uncertain search for opportunities: determinants of strategic alliances
Authors: Beverland Mike , Bretherton Philip
Published: April 2007

With the emergence of relationship marketing there has been an increased focus on the use of inter‐firm relationships or strategic alliances in delivering a total service package to the consumer. Despite a number of studies, there is still much to be learned about why alliances form and why they take the form they do. Based upon case based methodology this research argues that the formation of strategic alliances is a due to firms seeking out new market opportunities under conditions of increased uncertainty and competition. We integrate resource dependence views of alliance formation with those of Austrian economics and argue that alliances are a means of reducing the uncertainty that surrounds the undertaking of new market opportunities.
The impact of managerial characteristics on strategic assets management capabilities
Authors: Pegels C. Carl , Yang Baik
Published: April 2007

In this paper the impact of the top management team’s (TMT) cognitive and demographic characteristics on the firm’s strategic assets management performance is evaluated. Strategic assets are those assets as defined by the resource‐based value of the firm, also often referred to as core competencies. The performance measure used is relative efficiency in converting the firm’s strategic assets into firm performance measured by return on investment and return on sales. The technique used to measure relative efficiency is data envelopment analysis. Of the 13 TMT characteristics evaluated about half were statistically significant. The study was performed on firms in the domestic airline industry.
Creating the right structural fit for self‐directed teams
Authors: Attaran Mohsen , Nguyen Tai T.
Published: April 2007

Human resources are the most important asset of any organization. Yet most organizations continue to arrange their people in work patterns that inhibit and limit their employees’ participation. Many companies have tried to move away from a traditional rigid organizational structure to a more flexible one only to abandon it with few or no positive results. The difference between success and failure depends not on company size or resources, but on appropriate planning and avoidance of pitfalls. This article presents Chevron’s experiences in establishing interfunctional work teams, evaluates barriers, and suggests steps for successful implementation of self‐directed process teams.
Focus on team appraisal
Authors: Margerison Charles , McCann Dick , Davies Rod
Published: April 2007

Posits that quality performance requires a team effort and that
success depends mostly on an individual′s ability to manage people as
well as materials. Presents the Margerison‐McCann Team Performance Index
(TPI) as a means to measure this. Concludes that the key to using the
TPI is in self‐assessment. States that the TPI focusses people on team
tasks rather than individual agendas which leads to success owing to the
teamwork that results.
The seven deadly sins of teambuilding
Authors: McDonald J. Michael , Bernard Keys J.
Published: April 2007

Identifies seven major errors found frequently in teambuilding programmes. Each of the errors, all management failures, are illustrated by real life episodes. Guidelines are presented for overcoming each of these deadly sins: malselection, impatience, deception, aimlessness, powerlessness, inhibited communications, and competitive mania.
The performance of team‐start businesses in the UK
Authors: Gorton Matthew
Published: April 2007

Considers the growth performance of team‐starts (businesses founded by more than one individual) against the performance of enterprises founded by single individuals. Previous research, mainly conducted in the USA has found a significant link between team‐starts and superior growth performance. However, this study finds no such link. It is concluded that future research should concentrate on in‐depth case studies of team dynamics rather than trying to draw generalisations about the growth potential of team‐starts en masse.
Multi‐disciplinary teams and environmental integration: European programmes
Authors: Clement Keith
Published: April 2007

Regional development programmes in the European Union are increasingly being prepared by multi‐disciplinary teams whose official responsibilities now include environmental integration. Key determinants affecting team performance in this context include programme objectives, the status of environmental specialists in team composition, nterdisciplinary challenges and the diversity of objectives facing the team leader, and the need to maintain a proactive orientation towards environmental factors. Programmes currently operational reveal clear progress towards integration and environmental gain, particularly by teams in France, Wales and Scotland. Key issues emerging include that team leaders must accommodate and reconcile development and environment priorities, that national authorities are both supporting and providing environmental expertise as external and core team members, that team progress towards integration necessarily varies according to location, and that team performance will increasingly be judged on the basis of environmental factors.
The United States safety movement and Howard Pyle
Authors: Rinefort Foster C. , Van Fleet David D.
Published: April 2007

The health and safety of members of organizations is a long‐standing human resource issue of interest to those in the field of management. While its history is long and complicated, one part of that history – the role of Howard Pyle – is outlined here. The voluntary safety movement approach to this issue was supported strongly by Howard Pyle. A former radio station announcer who became Governor of the State of Arizona, Pyle was extremely active in the voluntary safety movement. In addition to becoming Governor of Arizona, he rose to be Deputy Assistant to the President of the United States, President of the National Safety Council, and first Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health. His contributions should not go unremembered.
The influence of Hume on American public administration
Authors: Spicer Michael W.
Published: April 2007

This article examines the influence of David Hume’s ideas on American public administration. Hume’s ideas have indirectly, via their impact on modern philosophy, encouraged both support for and criticism of empiricist approaches in public administration. Also Hume’s ideas on constitutionalism, because of their influence on the writings and designs of the founders of the Constitution, provide what is arguably his most important legacy for the practice of public administration.
Marshall Dimock’s deflective organizational theory
Authors: Stever James A.
Published: April 2007

Marshall Dimock offers students of organizational theory a potpourri of concepts, approaches and arguments. His career began in the founding era of American public administration during President Roosevelt’s new deal administration. He initially supported the administrative state, but became disillusioned with problems inherent in large bureaucratic organizations. Dimock eventually embraced pre‐modern approaches to organization that relied upon strong leadership and personal ethics. He was particularly opposed to behavioural approaches to organization because they relied on management techniques rather than individual integrity. With the pre‐modern approach, Dimock swam against the current of modern organizational theory which depicted modern organization as an inherently powerful, superior institutional form. His latter works argued that organizations must conform to nature and that they wither if they do not take the natural qualities of people into account.
“Make haste slowly”: Augustus Caesar transforms the Roman world
Authors: Svyantek Daniel J.
Published: April 2007

The Roman Empire illustrates how change occurs in complex social systems. An analysis of: the effects of transformational leadership and transactional leadership styles in complex social systems; and the relationship between leadership style and the social context is conducted. Julius Caesar is shown to have failed to create a new method of governing Rome. Augustus Caesar, however, created the basis for the Roman Empire. Their careers show that change which is incremental and does not violate the core culture of a system is more likely to transform a social system than more radical, transformational methods.
Ethics: a pencil case
Authors: Gould Jay W.
Published: April 2007

In the economic aftermath of the Second World War, the people of the Asian Pacific Rim, having been traumatized by that war, were both intimidated by a US presence and thereafter threatened by a Communist takeover. Starting in Japan and extending through the nations of the Five Tigers of South‐East Asia, the “quality movement” gained an unstoppable momentum. This “quality movement” tsunami swept over the USA, propelled by the power of NBC’s nationally televised broadcast, If Japan Can, Why Can’t We? Americans were chagrined to learn that one of their own, Dr W. Edwards Deming, was riding the crest of the wave. The Protestant work ethics and Taylor’s model of efficiency were both swept aside by the power of this wave. However, in Asian industrial parks producing six sigma quality, the ethical underpinning of the people generating the wave was a desire to emulate an ethical mastery which they believed was exhibited by the USA. How was this belief generated? It was generated by US movies, not by the story line, but by what was depicted in the scene. Largely this depiction was enhanced by the Americans who opened their in‐country electronic production plants. Whether attributed to Deming or not, his philosophy dominated the manner and method of how these plants operated. Deming’s “quality movement” deeply and profoundly affected the lives of all who came in contact with what is now believed by many to be a moral and ethical philosophy of work.
Recoating issues in stereolithography
Authors: Renap K. , Kruth J.P.
Published: April 2007

Most stereolithography systems use a blade to accomplish the recoating of the part being built with a new layer of resin. States the problems associated with this technique and describes experiments conducted to determine how recoating parameters should be controlled. Differentiates between recoating over an entirely solid substrate and over one consisting of solid and liquid, i.e. the “trapped volume” condition. Discusses parameter control for both of these conditions. Concludes that recoating is an important part of the stereolithography process which must be optimized to ensure accuracy of prototype parts.
Stereolithography for injection mould tooling
Authors: Rahmati Sadegh , Dickens Philip
Published: April 2007

Explains that stereolithography (SL) can greatly reduce initial tooling costs, thus making prototyping and small production runs economically feasible. Describes how epoxy resin SL5170 and Zeneca filled resin are used to build SL injection moulding tools. Different sets of tools were evaluated, based on the maximum number of successful injections and quality of performance. A polymer tool requires a minimum level of strength, thermal conductivity and dimensional accuracy. The Zeneca SL tool achieved a total number of 200 successful injections before starting to fail. However, the failure happened during the first shot of the day where the initial injection pressure was set high. On the other hand, epoxy tools were more resistant to injection pressure and temperature and more than 500 injections were achieved without tool failure. In all tests the cavity was never damaged and it was the core which failed during either injection or ejection. Concludes that product diversity, high product complexity, increase in product variety, and shorter product life are prime motives for SL tooling.
Stereolithography of ceramic suspensions
Authors: Allen Brady G. , Halloran John W.
Published: April 2007

Rapid prototyping of ceramics is accomplished with stereolithography by using an SLA machine to build the ceramic green from a UV‐curable suspension of ceramic powders ‐ a “ceramic resin”. Objects are later sintered in a separate furnace to complete the process. Aluminium oxide resins based on hexanediol diacrylate are characterized for curing behaviour by photo‐rheology and differential photo calorimetry with a UV lamp, and with an HeCd laser using “windowpanes”, single strings, and walls.
Selective area laser deposition of titanium oxide
Authors: Jakubenas K.J. , Lee Y.L. , Shaarawi M.S. , Marcus H.L. , Sanchez J.M.
Published: April 2007

A methodology for study of selective area laser deposition (SALD), a gas based solid freeform fabrication technique, has been developed that proceeds through three steps: selection of a precursor, thermodynamic calculations for deposition conditions, and experimentation. Presents proof of the usefulness of these three steps in depositing high quality (transparent) titanium oxide. Stresses the connections between the steps and shows how this approach can be applied to SALD of other materials, including complex ceramics, intermetallics, and/or composite systems.
Science and technology based SMEs: learning from the market place
Authors: Keogh William , Stewart Victoria , Mulvie Angela , Taylor John
Published: April 2007

This paper presents the findings from an Objective 4 research project funded through the European Social Fund. A total of 60 innovative technology based SMEs in the Aberdeen area agreed to take part in structured interviews which addressed a broad range of strategic issues. Information was gathered on the knowledge exchange practices utilised by these companies for example seminars, co‐operative working arrangements and in‐house training. Many other sources of learning such as project reviews, practical experience and brainstorming meetings were also discussed. Although the 60 companies taking part in this research have many processes in place which can aid organisational learning, it is unclear how conscious they are of the value of these processes. The sample companies are moving through a learning cycle, akin to that developed by Kolb, by reviewing and acting on learning experiences. However there are considerable differences in the time invested in this process. Few firms are translating their learning experiences into documented format to ensure that knowledge is available to all.
Small business development and the “learning organisation”
Authors: Wyer Peter , Mason Jane , Theodorakopoulos Nick
Published: April 2007

The paper proffers a tentative conceptualisation of the “small business strategic learning process”, demonstrating the complexity of the small firm learning and management task. The framework, built upon personal construct theory and learning theories, is elaborated through the grounding of relevant areas of the strategic management literature in an understanding of the distinctive managerial and behavioural features of the small business. The framework is then utilised to underpin consideration of the concepts of “organisational learning” and the “learning organisation” within a small firm developmental context. It is suggested that whilst organisational learning may be a key and effective small business management approach to underpin sustainable development, the learning organisation, as currently conceived in the mainstream literature, fails to recognise and address the idiosyncrasies, problems and constraints relating to sustainable small business development. There does appear, however, to be great potential for extending understanding of the learning organisation concept into the small business context. An indicative research agenda is suggested.
Organisational learning: research issues and application in SME sector firms
Authors: Chaston Ian , Badger Beryl , Sadler‐Smith Eugene
Published: April 2007

Over the last two decades the UK Government has massively expanded support for SME sector firms. Two important elements of this expansion have been the funding of intervention by commercial consultants and the provision of training schemes covering start‐ups, owner‐manager development and employee skills acquisition. Argues that a fresh approach is required which ensures embedding of the concept that firms should be more self‐responsible and continually strive to find ways of enhancing their performance. This view then permits one to posit the idea that the introduction of organisational learning into the SME sector is a highly attractive proposition. However, the majority of espoused theory is based on application of the concept in large firms moreover, there is very limited empirical research that supports the fundamental assumption that organisational learning contributes towards enhancing performance. Research to determine whether identifiable relationships exist between the performance of the firm, the learning mode of the organisation and organisational competence does not provide clear statistically significant relationships and further work is clearly needed. A grounded theory approach was adopted for developing an organisational learning programme for small firms. Preliminary results indicate the approach offers significant advantages over the classic, external intervention driven support models currently in common use among TECs and business links.
Advertiser acculturation in Japan: examples from foreign actors
Authors: Martin Drew
Published: April 2007

Recent work on advertising acculturation suggests that ad agencies have changed their messages in order to appeal to immigrants. The following inquiry turns the tables and looks at how the role of foreign actors has been adapted in a country with a relatively homogeneous population. Specifically, how adaptive is the Japanese advertising industry? Has the behaviour of foreign actors been adapted to reflect Japanese culture? Using Duncan’s categories of the non verbal communication, the mannerisms of foreign actors are examined. The results suggest that acculturation is occurring at some level; however, the inclusion of stereo typical materials suggests some retention of foreign identity.
Corporate reputation: seeking a definition
Authors: Gotsi Manto , Wilson Alan M.
Published: April 2007

This article reviews different viewpoints in the marketing literature in an attempt to clearly define the concept of corporate reputation and identify its relationship with corporate image. Definitions offered for the term corporate reputation by marketing academics and practitioners are therefore merged into two dominant schools of thought. These include the analogous school of thought, which views corporate reputation as synonymous with corporate image, and the differentiated school of thought, which considers the terms to be different and, according to the majority of the authors, interrelated. This article argues that on balance, the weight of literature suggests that there is a dynamic, bilateral relationship between a firm’s corporate reputations and its projected corporate images. Future research is therefore encouraged to explore how corporate reputations influence and are influenced by all the ways in which the company projects its images: its behaviour, communication and symbolism.
Measuring visual identity: a multi‐construct study
Authors: Melewar T.C.
Published: April 2007

A critical element in the development of a fundamental body of knowledge in corporate identity and corporate visual identity, as well as for improvement in communication practice, is the development of measures of the variables with which communicators work. In this article, the earlier work of Churchill is outlined and applied in search of measures in the context of international corporate visual identity.
The Mercedes‐Benz A‐class crisis
Authors: Puchan Heike
Published: April 2007

The launch of the Mercedes‐Benz A‐class in 1997 was greeted with enthusiasm by the international motoring community until the Swedish “elk‐test” was performed. A spate of toppling cars was not how Mercedes‐Benz had pictured the launch of their new, safe supermini. Early public relations activity only succeeded in exacerbating the crisis. This case study highlights the mistakes made in the initial stages of the crisis, before examining the strategy employed by Mercedes‐Benz to recover the situation. This article concludes that a more open, honest and proactive approach to crisis communication might have saved Mercedes‐Benz a great deal of money and embarrassment.
Effects of the pre‐neutron irradiation on VDMOSFET sensitivity to heavy ions
Authors: Salame C. , Hoffmann A. , Pelanchon F. , Mialhe P. , Charles J.P.
Published: April 2007

This article shows that irradiation with neutrons can be used as solution to harden commercial (COTS: Commercial‐Off‐The‐Shelf) n‐channel power MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) devices against destructive events induced by heavy ion irradiation. Atomic displacements created in silicon, by neutron irradiations, result in traps and recombination centers which reduce the electron‐hole pairs density generated by the heavy ion within the device. These results highlight a strong reduction in the photo‐current generated by the heavy ion, correlated with a reduction of the carrier lifetime.
An investigation of the factors influencing stability in continuously‐powered screen‐printed amperometric dissolved oxygen sensors
Authors: Atkinson J.K. , Glasspool W.V.
Published: April 2007

The continuously powered response of dissolved oxygen sensors fabricated as screen printed devices has been investigated. A reduction in the sensitivity of these devices has been observed when they are continuously powered at potentials of –0.6V versus Ag/AgCl reference electrodes. Periodically recorded voltammograms have indicated that the reduction in sensitivity can be attributed to a build up of hydroxyl ions beneath the sensor membrane that inhibits oxygen reduction. It has been found that powering these devices at more negative potentials mitigates against the decrease in sensitivity but results in a slowly increasing sensitivity. This is attributed to an increase in the effective area of the working electrode resulting mainly from leakage through the waterproofing layer covering the electrode interconnects.
Future VLSI interconnects: optical fiber or carbon nanotube – a review
Authors: Kaushik Brajesh Kumar , Goel Saurabh , Rauthan Gaurav
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To review and explore optical fiber and carbon nanotube (CNT) as prospective alternatives to copper in VLSI interconnections.

Design/methodology/approach

As the technology moves to deep submicron level, the interconnect width also scales down. Increasing resistivity of copper with scaling and rising demands on current density drives the need for identifying new wiring solutions. This paper explores various alternatives to copper. Metallic CNTs, optical interconnects are promising candidates that can potentially address the challenges faced by copper.

Findings

Although, the theoretical aspects proves CNTs and optical interconnect to be better alternative against copper on the ground of performance parameters such as power dissipation, switching delay, crosstalk. But copper would last for coming decades on integration basis.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the state‐of‐the‐art in CNT interconnect and optical interconnect research; and discusses both the advantages and challenges of these emerging technologies.
The past, present and future of EEE components for space application: COTS ‐ the next generation
Authors: Wall John , Sinnadurai Nihal
Published: April 2007

This paper identifies component industry trends, examines the traditional methods of achieving “space quality”, addresses how the space industry can adapt to this changing scenario, looks at the options for space standardisation/qualification, challenges some established practices and, finally, considers performance specifications.
Silicon pressure sensors with a thick film periphery
Authors: Belavič Darko , Šoba Stojan , Pavlin Marko , Ročak Dubravka , Hrovat Marko
Published: April 2007

Silicon piezoresistive pressure sensor dies are mounted on a ceramic substrate where the signal conditioning electronics are implemented in thick film technology. In this paper some of these techniques, e.g. special attachment and bonding requirements, methods for temperature compensation, the principles of parameter adjustment, and encapsulation, are presented. For illustration two examples are described. The first is a multipoint monitoring system with 720 measuring points in a test mattress. The second example is a family of industrial pressure transducers.
Consumer debt in the UK: Attitudes and implications
Authors: Ironfield‐Smith Christine , Keasey Kevin , Summers Barbara , Duxbury Darren , Hudson Robert
Published: April 2007

Some sections of society have expressed concerns that consumer debt has risen to a dangerous level. However, there is little evidence regarding how consumers themselves feel about debt. This paper reports up‐to‐date findings from the International Institute of Banking and Financial Services’ Financial Well‐being Survey about consumers’ attitudes towards debt in general and their current levels of borrowing. The implications for the financial services industry and its regulation are discussed.
The impact of financial forecasts regulation on IPO anomalies: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Wang Ya‐Fang , Lee Picheng , Chin Chen‐Lung , Kleinman Gary
Published: April 2007

This study examines whether a regulation on mandatory disclosure of financial forecasts since June 1991 and further sanction imposition since March 1998 contribute to lower IPO firms’ initial and aftermarket returns, and shorten honeymoon periods. The study is based on 423 IPO firms after the regulation required them to disclose their forecasts and 53 IPO firms prior to the regulation. The findings report that initial and aftermarket returns are lower, and honeymoon periods are shorter in the post‐regulation period than those in the pre‐regulation. The findings also report that initial and aftermarket returns are relatively smaller, and the honeymoon periods are shorter after the March 1998 regulatory sanction was imposed after controlling other variables. These results document that the financial forecasts disclosure regulation evidently contributes to mitigating information asymmetry.
The Greek three‐pillar functional system in the presence of the European Union Banking Directives
Authors: Pantos Themis D. , Saidi Reza
Published: April 2007

This paper examines wealth effects and changes in the systematic risk associated with the return structure of the “three‐pillar” functional system in Greece, resulting from the introduction of the eight major European Union Banking Directives over the period 1990‐94. The findings indicate that the systematic risk for the insurance and investment firms dramatically increased, while the systematic risk for commercial banks slightly increased through the passage of the Free Capital Movement Directive. Evidence was also found to show that the Free Capital Movement Directive created significant wealth effects for the investment firms, but insignificant wealth effects for banks. In addition, a marginal wealth effect was created for the insurance firms. Conversely, the results suggest that the Solvency Ratios and Own Funds Banking Directives produced no wealth effects for the banks, significant wealth effects for the insurance firms, and insignificant wealth effects for the investment firms. The wealth effects of the rest of the EU Banking Directives on the functional “three‐pillar” Greek financial system were neutral.
Best practices implementation in mutual funds
Authors: Nelson Donald , Wells William H. , Perry Kevin J. , Hanson Donald
Published: April 2007

This paper examines the implementation of best practices for fund directors as outlined by the Investment Company Institute (ICI) in the summer of 1999. Following a series of well publicised scandals across the financial services industry, the issue of corporate governance within mutual funds is both timely and practical. The purpose of the study is to measure the consistency of implementation of the 15 best practices within fund families. The data indicate that mutual funds, in general, currently follow the guidelines proposed by the ICI. This suggests that most funds are undertaking efforts to protect investors and separate the interests of management from those of investors. These findings also have implications for proposed federal legislation. If mutual funds have already adopted procedures designed to protect investors, additional regulation is redundant.
Doing business with the FSA
Authors: Robinson Philip
Published: April 2007

Recently the FSA made a commitment, in one of its four big investment priorities, to improve its business capability and effectiveness. A substantial part of that priority was to make the FSA “easier to do business with” from the point of view of both firms and consumers. This paper looks at the progress made so far and the signs of success that are being seen.
Commission consults on revision of the European electronic money regime
Authors: Penn Bob
Published: April 2007

Background to the European Commission consultation on the electronic money directive (2000/46/EC) with particular reference to the definition of ‘electronic money’, the impact on mobile telephone operators, different structures for payment of goods and services under schemes for the issue of prepaid electronic value, the regulatory requirements on banks and e‐money institutions and the application of anti‐money laundering requirements.
Regional and international cooperation in tackling transnational crime, terrorism and the problems of disrupted states
Authors: McFarlane John
Published: April 2007

Describes transnational terrorist groups in the Asia‐Pacific region. Outlines the general problems facing cooperation within the East Asia and Oceania region because of its huge size and diversity, and explores regional cooperation in dealing with these criminal and terrorist networks; the Australian government has taken a leading role in combating both, although it has incurred distrust because of its close alliance with the USA. Contends that in fact there has been real progress in regional cooperation, especially if it is considered that awareness of the concept of transnational crime and terrorism was alien to the region until the mid‐1990s; and further, the notion of intervening to assist a disrupted state would not have been countenanced a decade ago. Outlines two specific initiatives involving regional intervention in the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
International initiatives against corruption and money laundering: an overview
Authors: Shehu Abdullahi Y.
Published: April 2007

Examines in detail the various international, legal, policy and institutional principles to deal with money laundering and corruption. Begins with the many United Nations (UN) initiatives: the 1988 Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 2000 Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, Convention against Corruption, Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, Global Programme against Money Laundering, Global Programme against Corruption, Global Programme against Terrorism, Global Programme against Transnational Organised Crime, and Global Programme against Trafficking in Human Beings. Moves on to the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering, the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering, the Inter‐governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, the Egmont Group, Interpol, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) initiatives, Basel Declarations, Council of Europe Convention/Directives, Europol, the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, Transparency International, and the Wolfsberg Initiative.
Mapping the trails of financial crime
Authors: Nardo Massimo
Published: April 2007

Outlines a modelling approach which gives a powerful conceptual tool for both fact‐finding and problem‐solving, with the objective of defeating organised crime by prediction and prevention. Indicates all aspects that can give useful information about the financial system’s functioning; these include the legal and organisational framework, professional expertise, economic analysis, sociological studies, and statistical analysis, and shows how they can be integrated to allow the setting out of a three‐pronged kit of instruments ‐ a map of possible transactions, a data set that can be organised heuristically for modelling, and a range of criteria for behaviour motivation.
Insights from a logistics partnership
Authors: House Robert G. , Stank Theodore P.
Published: April 2007

Highlights insights gained from five years of operating experience in a logistics partnership between a large US retailer and a provider of international logistical service. The insights gained from this partnership show that a third‐party logistics provider can help a firm achieve substantial results. The path to achieving these results is not without its difficulties, but many of these problems can be anticipated and appropriate actions taken to minimize their disruption. Establishing a measurement system that allows easy and integrated reporting of the status of the enterprise is essential if real progress is to be made in a logistics partnership. An extensive formal and informal communication strategy is essential to address the issues arising from the difficulty of combining two different organizational cultures. Finally, this partnership has shown that if the rewards for both partners are real, tangible, and substantial the partnership can endure.
A case study of women academics’ views on equal opportunities, career prospects and work‐family conflicts in a UK university
Authors: Forster Nick
Published: April 2007

This paper reports on the views that women academics have about their career prospects, equal opportunities and the conflicts they experience between their work and personal lives in one UK university. The university in question has formal equal opportunities policies and gender monitoring systems in place. However, very few women have progressed into senior academic roles. They continue to be handicapped by well‐ingrained structural and cultural barriers and by promotion systems that still largely rely on the publication records of candidates for appointments and promotions. But this is only half the story. Some of the women we interviewed reported that they had opted to put their careers on hold because of domestic and family responsibilities. A few have resigned themselves to never achieving senior positions because of these commitments. The wider implications of these findings are discussed, including the possible effects that this will have on recruiting women graduates into careers in higher education in the future.
Consultant or entrepreneur? Demystifying the “war for talent”
Authors: Stumpf Stephen A. , Tymon Walter G.
Published: April 2007

The “War for Talent” has made the cover of Fortune Magazine as well as being a top agenda item for the leadership of professional service firms – from McKinsey to the three Bs (Bain, Boston Consulting Group, and Booz Allen) to the big five accounting firms. A boom economy has led to a demand for talent that surpasses the supply, or at least the supply from Ivy League and top tier B‐schools. As consulting firms battle it out on B‐school campuses and scurry to other sources of talent such as engineering schools and PhD programs, one cannot help but ask, “Why are people choosing entrepreneurial positions over a consulting career?” The answers may be more in the failings of consulting firms to define a compelling industry‐wide value proposition than in a new venture’s overarching attractiveness as a moderate risk, high reward opportunity.
CEO tenure in nonprofit community‐based organizations: a multiple case study
Authors: Santora Joseph C. , Sarros James C.
Published: April 2007

This study focused on the issue of CEO tenure in three non‐profit community‐based organizations – each with an at least 25‐year long CEO tenure – located in two US northeastern urban centers. Using a questionnaire and a semi‐structured interview, we investigated reasons for the CEOs’ extraordinarily long tenures in office: the CEOs themselves, their organizations, and the environments in which they operated. The following were among the data findings re the CEOs: they were founders of their organization; were power brokers within the political community; managed their staff and boards of directors; possessed a vision and continued to initiate new projects; exhibited a passion for work; and had a succession plan. Some issues for future research are presented.
Organizational downsizing and career development
Authors: Bozionelos Nikos
Published: April 2007

Survivor employees and senior management perceptions of career development issues were examined in a downsizing organization. It emerged that the organization lacked a coherent strategy for survivors’ career development. The main career development structure, the performance management and appraisal scheme, was generally viewed as inadequate, while the other structures in place, although generally perceived as useful, were underutilized. A substantial proportion of employees considered lateral moves to potentially undermine advancement and security, and senior management views implied a potential lack of wide managerial support for widespread use of this tool. A senior management attitude for selective career development, targeted on an élite group of key employees, was also detected. The study concluded that proper downsizing planning must include a coherent career development strategy for survivors.
The realistic downsizing preview: a multiple case study, part I: the methodology and results of data collection
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Donia Magda
Published: April 2007

While downsizing has become an increasingly popular organizational tool in the achievement and/or maintenance of competitiveness the negative side effect known as survivor syndrome continues to plague many post‐downsizing organizations. This article series examines the full spectrum of research with the goal of producing a model. The model is based upon the problems survivors’ experienced and modeled after the realistic job preview. The realistic downsizing preview (RDP), which can be effectively used before the downsizing, is implemented to prevent survivor syndrome. This two‐part article is an exploratory study intended to produce an instrument, the RDP. This will be tested utilizing a cross case study analysis of nine major North American organizations. The first part re‐introduces the RDP then concentrates on the methods of data collection and initial presentation of results from the nine case studies that were used to develop and refine the model.
Mind mapping your way to a better career
Authors: Pollitt David
Published: April 2007

Explains the theory of mind mapping, how to construct a mind map and the situations in which it may be useful. Highlights the effectiveness of the technique in getting to the heart of a matter. Shows how it can be used to improve note‐taking and presentations, and to make meetings more effective. Concludes by examining the potential uses of mind mapping in life‐management.
Advancing women's careers
Authors: Burke Ronald , Vinnicombe Susan
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This collection seeks to examine the various challenges women face in advancing their careers.

Design/methodology/approach

In the mid‐1980s, the phrase “glass ceiling” was coined and has since become an established part of our vocabulary. The glass ceiling refers to an invisible but impermeable barrier that limits the career advancement of women. During the last two decades, women have made progress: there are now more women in senior‐level executive jobs, more women in “clout jobs”, more women CEOs, and more women on corporate boards of directors. But real progress has been slow with only modest increases shown at these levels.

Findings

The slow progress made by talented, educated, ambitious women is now having some negative effects on women's views of management and the professions as a career. However, artificially limiting the career possibilities of women is a luxury organizations can no longer afford. Organizations are facing an impending shortage of qualified leaders. The aging of the workforce, a smaller number of new workforce entrants, and the war for talent, makes it imperative that organizations utilize and develop the talents of all their employees.

Originality/value

This collection examines the various challenges women face in their careers. The contributors come from a number of different countries, indicating the widespread interest in this topic in all developed and developing countries.
What works and what does not in career development programmes
Authors: Stevens Paul
Published: April 2007

Describes the wide diversity of career development support programmes now being offered by many employers in Australia. Summarizes positive and negative effects along with the conclusions arrived at after 98 workplace interventions within Australia. Concludes career development is seen by human resource management and training professionals as a means of providing interventions and learning experiences which will help staff adjust to maintaining their employability rather than long‐term tenure.
NLP ‐ help or hype? Investigating the uses of neuro‐linguistic programming in management learning
Authors: Dowlen Ashley
Published: April 2007

Identifies aspects of neurolinguistic programming (NLP) that may be of use in management learning. Uses three approaches to explore NLP; an introductory programme, a profiling questionnaire and an analysis of a sample of management development articles. Then reviews research evidence on NLP. Concludes that NLP techniques using language patterns and questioning techniques appear to be of use; existing research evidence is limited and inconclusive; NLP is enthusiastically supported by those who practise it, and that is both its strength and potential weakness.