bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new modified homotopy perturbation method with two free auxiliary parameters for solving MHD viscous flow due to a shrinking sheet
Authors: Raftari Behrouz , Yildirim Ahmet
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new version of the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) for solving the magnetohydrodynamic viscous flow due to a shrinking sheet.

Design/methodology/approach

Three terms from HPM solution are used.

Findings

The results show that this method is very effective and simple and can be applied to other nonlinear problems.

Research limitations/implications

Comparison between the HPM and homotopy analysis methods for the studied problem shows a remarkable agreement and reveals that the HPM needs less work.

Practical implications

It is suggested that this method should be called HPM with auxiliary parameters. This paper uses two auxiliary parameters, three or more auxiliary parameters could be used for accuracy consideration.

Originality/value

In this paper, a two‐parameter HPM is applied which is useful for finding an approximate analytical solution of MHD viscous flow due to a shrinking sheet.
Simulating a Gaussian random process by conditional PDF
Authors: Klemenc Jernej , Fajdiga Matija
Published: July 2011

Purpose

One of the biggest problems in an R&D process is the acquisition of information about the structure dynamic loads, which are needed to reliably prove the structure's durability. This paper aims to present an innovative method for simulating stationary Gaussian random processes, which is based on the conditional probability density function (PDF) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The basic information on the structure dynamic loads is first obtained by short‐duration measurements on prototypes or the structure itself. These data are then used to simulate the expected structure load states during operations. A theoretical background is presented first, which is followed by the application of the method.

Findings

The results show that the spectral characteristics of the original and simulated Gaussian random processes are very similar, if the influential range of the conditional PDF is properly chosen.

Practical implications

The method can be applied for simulating random loads of structures, and excitations of dynamic systems, for example.

Originality/value

The innovative simulation approach could be helpful to engineers in the early phases of the new product development process.
Prediction of strength of reinforced lightweight soil using an artificial neural network
Authors: Park H.I. , Kim Y.T.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Reinforced lightweight soil (RLS) consisting of dredged soil, cement, air‐foam, and waste fishing net is considered to be an eco‐friendly backfilling material because it provides a means to recycle both dredged soil and waste fishing net. It may be difficult to find an optimum mixing ratio of RLS considering the design criteria and the construction's situation using the limited test results because the unconfined compressive strength is complicatedly influenced by various mixing ratios of admixtures. As a result, in order to expedite the field application of RLS, an appropriate prediction method is needed. The paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) model that was based on experimental test results performed on various mixing ratios, was developed to predict the unconfined compressive strength of RLS.

Findings

It was found that the unconfined compressive strength of RLS at a given mixing ratio could be reasonably estimated using the developed neural network model. In addition, sensitivity analysis was also conducted to evaluate the effect of mixing conditions on the compressive strength of RLS.

Practical implications

RLS is considered to be environmentally friendly because it provides a means to recycle both dredged soil and waste fishing net. The contractors could use the proposed ANN model as an alternative method to predict the strength of RLS with a specific mixing ratio.

Originality/value

This paper reveals that the developed ANN model can be served as a simple and reliable predictive tool for the strength of RLS without excessive laboratory tests for various admixture contents. An optimum admixture ratio of composed materials to get a designed strength could be easily found by using the proposed ANN model.
A multidimensional typology of customer relationships: from faltering to affective
Authors: Dalziel Nurdilek , Harris Fiona , Laing Angus
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The complexity of customer relationships has been recognized in the relationship marketing literature. Yet, the understanding of how this complexity impacts on the formation and development of different relationship forms is limited. Focusing on the development of customer‐service provider relationships in a financial services context, this paper aims to critically examine the nature and formation of business‐to‐consumer service relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative methods were employed, with in‐depth interviews undertaken with a sample of UK bank customers.

Findings

The complexity of customer relationships was documented by approaching relationships as multidimensional, dynamic and contextual. A relationship typology based on four key relationship components (trust, commitment, buyer‐seller bonds, and relationship benefits) is proposed. This typology suggests that for a relationship to exist it does not necessarily have to encompass an emotional dimension. Moreover, the paper demonstrates the importance of the fit between customers' relational expectations and their experiences with service providers in developing long‐term committed relationships.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to the UK context. The extension of this study to other sectors or financial institutions operating in different regulatory and technological environments needs to be tested.

Practical implications

It is crucial that relationships are viewed as multidimensional, taking into account various relationship components. Since different relationship components influence relationships differently, organisations need to develop different relationship marketing strategies for each consumer segment according to consumers' relational expectations.

Originality/value

Building on preceding research, this paper broadens understanding of the complexity of customer‐firm relationships by presenting insight into the affective element of relationships and highlighting the role of the fit between customers' relational expectations and their experiences in relationship development.
Characteristics of HS‐15250 traction motors: a case study in quality control
Authors: Chandra Mahesh
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The paper aims to discuss a case study involving the speed load characteristics of DC series motors used for traction application. The variation of characteristics from motor to motor in a mass manufacturing situation is required to be maintained within a narrow band.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted was to analyze the data, compare these with competitors' corresponding data and study the base documents to identify the root cause. Having done that an attempt to achieve specific improvements and measure improvements was carried out.

Findings

The paper finds the limits being followed had to be corrected. Strict control on a few selected parameters was established. An improvement on the method of setting neutral axis was tried with advantage. It was found that motors manufactured by a manufacturer were not able to meet the requirements. An investigation was undertaken to determine the root cause and corrective measures.

Research limitations/implications

In the absence of computerised models, the experimentation had to be done in shop on a limited scale.

Practical implications

The method can be applied to solve the same problem on any other design of traction motor. Also the approach remains useful for handling other problems in traction motors.

Originality/value

The inference regarding the relationships of speed with pole diameter, the importance of accuracy of magnetic neutral and method of refining neutral settings are the original findings.
Performance modeling and optimization for the stock preparation unit of a paper plant using genetic algorithm
Authors: Khanduja Rajiv , Tewari P.C. , Chauhan R.S.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deal with the performance modeling and optimization for the stock preparation unit of a paper plant using genetic algorithm. It provides the optimum unit availability level for different combinations of failure and repair rates of the subsystems of the stock preparation unit of the paper plant concerned.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, efforts have been made to develop performance models based on real situations for the stock preparation unit. The performance in terms of availability has been evaluated on the basis of Markov birth‐death process. After that, the performance optimization using genetic algorithm is done, which gives the optimum unit availability levels for different combinations of failure and repair rates of the subsystems of stock preparation units for enhancing the overall performance of the paper plant.

Findings

The effect of genetic algorithm parameters, namely number of generations, population size and crossover probability on the unit performance i.e. availability has been analyzed and discussed with the concerned paper plant management. It is found that these results are highly beneficial to the maintenance engineers for the purpose of effective maintenance planning to enhance the overall performance (availability) of the stock preparation unit of the paper plant.

Originality/value

Most of the researchers have confined their work to the development and analysis of theoretical models which has little practical significance. To fulfill this deficiency, efforts have been made in the present work to develop a model based on real situations for the stock preparation unit.
Sex and position status differences in workplace aggression
Authors: Lee Raymond T. , Brotheridge Céleste M.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine sex and position status differences in the experience of workplace aggression. Based on the imbalance of power thesis, the aim is to posit that: women would report targeting other women; men would report targeting either sex; supervisors would report targeting a peer or subordinate; victims would report that a supervisor more often uses indirect forms of aggression; a peer more often uses direct forms of aggression; and; after controlling for position status, men would report using direct forms of aggression more often than women who, in turn, would report using indirect forms of bullying more often than men.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 180 Canadian supervisory and non‐supervisory workers from several industries completed a questionnaire that included measures of aggressive acts.

Findings

Most men reported being targeted by another man, and most women reported being targeted by another woman. Similarly, most men reported that they targeted another man, and most women reported that they targeted another woman. Most respondents reported that their aggressor had either higher or the same position status as them, whereas, if the respondents targeted others, their victim had the same or lower status. Compared to similar status aggressors, higher status aggressors were reported by the respondents as using both direct and indirect forms of aggression more often. After controlling for position status, compared to women, men reported using both forms more often as well.

Originality/value

The findings have implications for how victims cope with workplace aggression and for developing organizational anti‐harassment policies.
Exploring the role of country and client type on the auditor's client risk assessments and audit planning decisions
Authors: De Martinis Michael , Fukukawa Hironori , Mock Theodore J.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether country (Australia or Japan) and client type (public sector or private sector) impact the auditor's client risk assessments, subsequent audit planning decisions (planned audit hours) and audit planning responsiveness to client risk assessments.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on previously developed audit planning models and uses working paper‐sourced data of planned auditor effort and nine client risk assessments. The study samples are taken from public and private sector audit engagements of two major audit firms in Australia and Japan, respectively.

Findings

Evidence is found that country and client type do have an impact on the auditor's client risk assessments and planned total audit hours, but they do not moderate audit planning responsiveness to client risk assessments.

Research limitations/implications

The test variable is confounded by the country and client type characteristics inherent in the study's samples. If the differences are caused by country, this suggests that audit planning decisions vary across countries, even when the same auditing standards are adopted. However, if they are caused by client type, this suggests that the same audit approach (i.e. the audit risk model) is applied differently depending on client characteristics.

Practical implications

These findings are useful to international standard setters, audit practice quality control and training, and audit research.

Originality/value

No prior study has examined the role of country and client type on the auditor's client risk assessments and audit planning decisions. Further, no prior study has examined whether the relationship between the auditor's client risk assessments and audit planning decisions is moderated by country and client type.
The internal audit function
Authors: Soh Dominic S.B. , Martinov‐Bennie Nonna
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the current roles and responsibilities of the internal audit (IA) function and the factors perceived to be necessary to ensure its effectiveness. The current performance evaluation practices of IA are also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were utilised to elicit the perceptions of key corporate governance actors about the evolving role of IA, as well as IA effectiveness, in terms of its design, measurement and evaluation.

Findings

The results of the study suggest significant expansion and refocus of the role of IA and perceptions of its effectiveness. However, the findings also suggest that performance evaluation mechanisms of IA have not evolved contemporaneously. The misalignment between the role and evaluation gives rise to difficulty in assessing the extent to which IA functions are meeting stakeholders' expectations.

Practical implications

The findings are useful in informing the deliberations of regulators and standard setters, as well as providing a benchmark for internal auditors and audit committees. The insights are also relevant for external auditors who are required to consider various aspects of corporate governance, including the objectivity and quality of IA.

Originality/value

The use of semi‐structured interviews facilitates an in‐depth insight and understanding of the perceptions of roles, effectiveness and evaluation of IA and adds depth to the predominantly questionnaire‐based survey approach of prior studies.
Pricing in the digital world
Authors: Docters Rob , Tilstone Lisa , Bednarczyk Susan , Gieskes Martijn
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Businesses understand that digital technologies and applications can create value, but how to capture that value has been elusive. Particularly for established businesses, the practice of applying traditional price structures to new digital platforms has resulted in revenue, market and share deterioration. This article describes how to adapt price structure to digital migration and hybrid digital/pre‐digital product sets.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on case studies from entertainment, publishing, education, avionics, gaming and software industries, the article observes how price structure directly transported from pre‐digital products have not been effective in maintaining revenues and margins. Successful digital product introduction requires careful examination of the new capabilities and price drivers of a digital context.

Findings

This article shows that frequently the price drivers of digital products require a new price structure. In particular, the unit of measure (e.g. users, downloads, enterprise size, etc.) is critical to success. Typically when product developers choose a measure that most resembles the pre‐digital unit of pricing, results are sub‐optimal. Further, the overall structure must reflect the risks which are often implicit in digital migration – the benefits of sharing and increases in efficacy can often accrue to the buyer, and elude the seller.

Originality/value

Product developers and pricers tend to focus on the similarity between pre‐digital and digital generations of product. Often, they wrongly assume that digital is better for all. However, the context of the product (workflow, applications, scaling, competitors, etc.) can be much more important than the product itself, and pricing must reflect that. As a result of poorly managed digital transitions, industries have seen billions of dollars of revenues wiped out – quite needlessly. This article identifies specific frameworks for minimizing the risk of revenue loss.
Made in heaven – produced on earth: creative leadership as art of projection
Authors: Reckhenrich Jörg , Kupp Martin , Anderson Jamie
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The paper “Made in heaven – produced on earth: creative leadership as art of projection” is about the concept of projection in the context of leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

This article takes a close look at Jeff Koons, a successful and highly controversial contemporary artist. The paper explores the way in which storytelling linked to his artwork has been the key element of the way he has projected himself as a credible leader in the world of contemporary art.

Findings

This article examines how the artist Koons is using the three universal story lines used by leaders to excite and gain buy‐in from an audience as described by the sociologist Howard Gardner: (1) who am I – How life experience has shaped my individuality and character; (2) who are we – Demonstrate the values and behaviors of a group; and (3) where are we going – Explains what is new, and creates a sense of excitement about direction. The authors find that throughout his career and his various artistic production cycles like the inflatables, the New, Equilibrium, Luxury Degradation, Statuary, Kiepenkerl, Banality, Made in Heaven, Puppy, Celebration, Easyfun, Popeye, and Hulk Elvis, Jeff Koons is using key elements of the art of projection by linking his art work to the three universal story lines who am I, who are we, and where are we going. A closer analysis of Koons' work reveals how he has leveraged each of these dimensions of effective storytelling as a broad narrative to link his various series together as a consistent whole.

Practical implications

The authors suggest that Koons' use of storytelling, and the manner in which he has come to embody the themes and concepts that he seeks to communicate through his artworks, present powerful lessons for managers as to how they can manage their own leadership projection. By looking at Koons, managers can better understand not only how to establish credibility and drive buy‐in, but also how to project themselves as leaders in their respective fields of business endeavor.

Originality/value

While there is literature on the art of storytelling there has been less focus on the sphere of art and how artists use storytelling and projection to take their audience with them. This new perspective not only creates new insights on the concept of storytelling and potential future research but has implications for managers and leaders and the way they want to drive change in organizations and take people on their managerial journey.
Strategy making: the approach matters
Authors: Pretorius Marius , Maritz Rachel
Published: July 2011

Purpose

More than ever, businesses need to get their strategy right. Part of achieving this is the approach to strategy making that is chosen. The purpose of this paper is to describe how strategy making happens on the continuum of deliberate versus emerging strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Through in‐depth interviews with “strategy informants” (CEO's) in businesses and questionnaires to respondents (managers) in the same organizations, statistical techniques have helped us draw interesting conclusions about strategy making approaches, its elements and factors moderating the choice of strategy making approach. Through factor analysis, the construct of strategy making is informed by three concepts namely: “performance consensus”, “ends and means specificity” as well as “ends and means flexibility”.

Findings

“Ends and means specificity” was associated more with the deliberate strategy approach while “ends and means flexibility” was associated more with the emerging strategy approach. “Performance consensus” was neutral and therefore relevant to both approached. Approaches also show differences depending on the following characteristics: “degree of risk taking preferred”, “comfort with stability and predictability” as well as “primarily autonomous or individual behavior preferred”. Finally, strategy making approach is moderated by “firm size”, “CEO influence” and “environmental uncertainty”.

Originality/value

Knowing the appropriate strategy making approach gives managers flexibility. There is no need to choose one approach above the other but rather to be aware of benefits that can be derived from both. The fast changing environment places pressure on the use of emergent strategy, therefore performance consensus is critical contributor to successful use thereof.
Is child work a deterrent to school attendance and school attainment?
Authors: Khanam Rasheda , Ross Russell
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine the linkages between child work and both school attendance and school attainment of children aged 5‐17 years using data from a survey based in rural Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first looks at school attendance as an indicator of a child's time input in schooling; then it measures the “schooling‐for‐age” as a learning achievement or schooling outcome using logistic regression models.

Findings

The results from this paper show that school attendance and grade attainment are lower for children who are working. The gender‐disaggregated estimates show that probability of grade attainment is lower for girls than that of boys. The results further reveal that child work has the highest impact on schooling of Bangladeshi children, followed by supply side correlates (presence of a school in the community), parental education and household income, respectively.

Practical implications

The results obtained in this paper are of interest to policy makers seeking to design policies that increase school outcome and reduce child labor.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the limited empirical literature that has explored the impact of child work on schooling on Bangladesh by considering supply side correlates of schooling, and unpaid household work in modeling child labor.
Malnutrition in primary school‐age children
Authors: Ejaz Ali Khan Rana , Azid Toseef
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the determinants of malnutrition of primary school‐age (five to ten years) children in urban and slum areas. The ultimate objective is to frame policy proposals for children's nutritional welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

In this empirical study, logit model is applied to 882 observations of primary data. The composite index of anthropometric failure (CIAF) is constructed to use an indicator of malnutrition.

Findings

The probability for anthropometric failure increases by age, birth‐order, female sex and activity of the child (child labor or home‐care activity) other than schooling. The parents' education, specifically mothers' education, can play an important role for child's nutritional status. Malnutrition is positively related with congestion in the household (number of household members per room), while provision of electricity, safe drinking water and underground drainage turns out to be negatively affecting children's malnutrition. The children living in slums are more likely to experience anthropometric failure.

Research limitations/implications

From the policy perspective awareness about gender equity of child, adult education, growth of household income specifically of slum areas and improvement in living conditions (through public health works program) may contribute to enhance children's nutritional status.

Practical implications

The slums need targeted policy for children welfare regarding their nutrition in the form of provision of public utilities and income support.

Originality/value

From the methodological point of view, CIAF has been estimated as a measure of malnutrition. The findings of study may support academicians, policy makers and social activists for human development programs.
Debt‐equity decision‐making with and without growth
Authors: Hull Robert M.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to instruct upper level business students on the intricacies of the debt‐equity choice with the emphasis on showing the interrelation of this choice with the plowback‐payout choice.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is designed around a pedagogical exercise that applies academic theories on the computation of the gain to leverage for an unleveraged nongrowth firm. A question and answer methodology is used within the exercise. The approach is instructional as it attempts to teach students about firm valuation and the variables that are important in the valuation process. The firm valuation method is based on perpetuity equations with and without growth.

Findings

Unlike an empirical study that concentrates on providing findings from a data analysis, this paper attempts to instill knowledge and skills to students when making debt‐equity and plowback‐payout choices.

Research limitations/implications

All gain to leverage equations used in this paper are limited by their derivational assumptions and the estimation of values for variables used in the equations.

Practical implications

Besides using the traditional Modigliani and Miller (MM)‐Miller gain to leverage equations, this paper also uses more recent gain to leverage equations that attempt to bridge the gap between theory and practice by applying new theory on the impact of the plowback‐payout choice on the debt‐equity choice. Students will be able to compare traditional and recent gain to leverage equations and form their own opinions as to their potential value in practice. In the process, they should get an idea of the practical complexities of financial decision‐making.

Social implications

Optimizing firm value through proper decision‐making implies there is a proper and efficient utilization of societal resources.

Originality/value

The paper builds on a prior pedagogical paper that incorporated discount rates (costs of borrowing) within the nongrowth MM‐Miller gain to leverage framework. This paper's originality and value lies in being the first pedagogical paper to incorporate growth as determined by the plowback‐payout decision within the nongrowth gain to leverage framework.
Creating effective staff development committees: a case study
Authors: Davis Erin , Lundstrom Kacy
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of staff development committees (SDC) in the motivation, morale and education of library staff by relying on previous research and by using Utah State University's (USU), Merrill‐Cazier Library SDC as a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

Discussion and analysis emerge from the documented formation of USU's SDC, including its membership, goals, and evaluative practices, especially as it relates to current research in this area. Informal staff comments regarding benefits and limitations of the committee are included.

Findings

Staff development has been approached from various perspectives. Most programs form as the results of formal or informal needs assessments. Goals for the program, or for the resulting staff development committee, vary and fluctuate depending on the time‐specific needs of the library. Successful elements of USU's SDC include its emphasis on building inter‐departmental relationships and its ability to elicit feedback from every level of the library. Challenges include having clearly defined goals and meeting a variety of individual and institutional needs through the creation of related events and activities.

Practical implications

This paper provides ideas on forming a staff development committee, including examples for specific events and activities. It details how to structure membership and explores literature relating to designing and implementing institutional goals for staff development.

Originality/value

Many studies lack a comprehensive literature review that focuses on the scope and purpose of staff development committees. This paper combines a literature review with an explanation of how USU's Library created a staff development committee to fill certain library‐wide goals, including challenges and benefits that emerged as a result.
Information literacy and US Latino college students: a cross‐cultural analysis
Authors: Dabbour Katherine S. , Ballard James David
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a cross‐cultural analysis of information literacy and library use among Latino and white undergraduates in an American university.

Design/methodology/approach

A large‐scale, random sample survey of information literacy skills, and library instruction experiences and attitudes was undertaken at a large public university in the USA.

Findings

More white students accessed the internet from home than Latino students; however, both spent an equal amount of time searching the internet and library databases. Latino students used the physical library more than white students. More Latino than white students had formal library instruction. Over two thirds of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their research skills contributed to their academic success. Latino students did not perform as well as white students on the test questions on information literacy knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

While an argument over the relative merits of an objective test of information literacy versus direct assessment of student work is beyond the scope of this study, it would be worthwhile to undertake to see if the results would be different.

Practical implications

Given the differences in test scores despite more Latinos attending library instruction, improvements in outreach, pedagogy, and assessment methodologies may be needed.

Social implications

As there are over 220 Hispanic‐Serving Institutions of higher education in the USA, these findings could be applicable to other libraries.

Originality/value

Few if any researchers have compared test scores on information literacy knowledge and library use based on a cross‐cultural analysis.
A study of Master of Library Science candidates and librarians at a practicum site library
Authors: Ferrer‐Vinent Ignacio J. , Sobel Karen
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to augment knowledge about perceived benefits and drawbacks of practicum programs in academic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Many library science programs require or encourage practicum experiences. The paper surveyed past practicum students and site librarians about experiences with their practicum program.

Findings

Practica in librarianship that balance structure and independence were reported to be beneficial, both for practicum students and for the libraries that host them. Students enjoyed the theory‐to‐practice aspects and the diverse populations of the academic library. The Auraria Campus's student body displays great diversity in terms of race and ethnicity, socioeconomics, age, and prior educational experiences. Practicum participants also made constructive suggestions for changes in terms of structure and content. Students and site librarians valued their interactions with one another, even though the librarians were aware that mentoring and supervising practicum students consumes time.

Practical implications

Master of Library Science (MLS) programs, students, and libraries should consider these results when evaluating or considering practicum programs.

Originality/value

At present, the library literature contains very few examples of evaluation strategies for library practicum programs. This article presents an easily adaptable model for assessing practicum programs in order to make improvements to their own programs.
The influence of marketing from a power perspective
Authors: Merlo Omar
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Based on the widely held view that influence is exercised power, and in light of the suitability of power theory to studies of marketing's relative influence within the firm, this paper seeks to explore marketing's level of influence from a power perspective. The paper proposes and empirically tests a model in which the marketing function's four key types of power (bureaucratic power, critical contingencies power, network power, and psychological power) act as antecedents to marketing's influence within the firm. The model also aims to consider the contingency effect of market turbulence.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs data drawn from a sample of senior managers in medium and large manufacturing firms. The model is tested using hierarchical ordinary least squares regression analysis.

Findings

The findings provide support for a link between all types of power and marketing's influence, with the exception of psychological power. Market turbulence is also found to strengthen the positive link between marketing's critical contingencies power and marketing's level of influence.

Practical implications

The study identifies and discusses power mechanisms that may be employed by marketing subunits to maintain or strengthen their influence within the firm.

Originality/value

Empirical evidence has shown that strong marketing functions are still needed, yet are slowly disappearing. This study approaches the question of how marketing departments can protect or regain their influence by adopting a power perspective. The findings suggest that marketing departments can tap into different types of power to further their influence. The study discusses the key theoretical and managerial implications and proposes some directions for future research.
HRD domain in the service science discipline: developing interdisciplinary professionals
Authors: Dickson Donna , Noveski Igor , Hamidi Hana
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify critical components for service science curricula that address the unique competency needs of the service sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The method for this investigation included a comprehensive review, analysis, and synthesis of service science, as well as service science management and engineering (SSME) related literature. As human capital is of unique importance in this business sector, particular emphasis was placed on examining the need for human resource development‐related content in service science curricula.

Findings

Expansion of the services sector globally has been unprecedented. “Some analysts predict that by 2020, services will account for 50 percent of world trade” (Downe et al.). Yet a global shortage of graduates with the skills needed for success in service sector jobs has been forecast. Compounding this talent shortage is the relatively small number of degree programs available to prepare professionals for service sector jobs. Because the growth in the service sector has outpaced improvements in productivity, quality, and innovation, and there is a lack of skilled talent to address these challenges, increasing attention is being placed on service science curricula.

Originality/value

Given the economic importance of, and current deficiencies in, the service sector it is poised to make a significant impact by improving service science education.
Getting people involved
Authors: Pook Katja
Published: July 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the benefits of intellectual capital assessment for facing current challenges of human resources work and organizational development.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes findings of studies on challenges in HR work and maps them with features of intellectual capital assessment methods. It is thus a theoretical paper, based on practical experience, and findings of practice‐oriented studies. It can serve as the basis for formulating new hypotheses to be further investigated and discussed.

Findings

There is a considerable overlap of HR challenges and potential benefits of IC assessment in several areas of human resources' work, closely interlinked with organizational development.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper may stimulate research on organizations as social systems and in applied research on human resources. It provides a starting point for further investigation of psychological, social and organisational success factors and to the practical challenge of building intelligent and sustainable organisations in a continuously changing environment.

Practical implications

Using participatory IC assessment approaches may change practices in HR work and enrich the portfolio of methods used and enlarge the application of IC assessment.

Social implications

The paper fosters the value of expertise and experience of people in organizations. This may lead, in the long run, to changes in organizational cultures.

Originality/value

In research and practice, IC assessment and HR work are mostly disconnected. This paper proposes to establish a link and explore synergies. This may have considerable impact on research and practice in these areas.
Cybernetically sound organizational structures II
Authors: Achterbergh Jan , Vriens Dirk
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how the viable system model (VSM) and de Sitter's design theory can complement each other in the context of the diagnosis and design of viable organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Key concepts from Beer's model and de Sitter's design theory are introduced and analyzed in order to show how they relate.

Findings

The VSM provides insight into the related systems necessary and sufficient for viability. As such, it specifies criteria supporting the diagnosis and design of organizational infrastructures, i.e. of organizational structures, HR systems, and technology. However, it does not explicitly conceptualize and provide a detailed heuristic for the design of organizational structures. De Sitter's theory fills in this gap.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates how, based on a rudimentary model of organizational viability, de Sitter's design theory positively addresses the question of how to diagnose and design organizational structures that add to the viability of organizations.
Designing viable social systems
Authors: Holten Roland , Rosenkranz Christoph
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The viable system model (VSM) provides a way to understand communication structures in an organization. It gives us a means to visualize and analyze information channels relating the functions in an enterprise, a corporation, or any other kind of organization. At the heart of the VSM is the application of Ashby's law of requisite variety. The resulting models help to analyze and discuss what variety attenuation of operations and what variety amplification of management can establish requisite variety. Many studies and applications show that the complexity management laws described by Ashby and Beer hold, and that managerial, operational and environmental varieties tend to equate. The amplifiers and attenuators, however, should be designed to do so with minimum damage to people and to cost. The purpose of this paper is to determine to what extent the design of amplifiers and attenuators is possible if these are realized based on linguistic communication, and whether this design can be automated in these cases.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses logical presentation of ideas along with examples from cases. The basic argument is that the design of information channels – amplifiers and attenuators – relies on self‐organizing processes that depend on an operation called linguistic predication.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that linguistic predication is not computable based on the model of the Turing machine so that this operation is restricted to be carried out by human agents. In these cases, technology is limited to providing a technical means for communication and social processes.

Originality/value

While there is a large knowledge base of literature in the field of applications of the VSM there is less work providing concepts and guidelines for designing information channels. This paper offers a conceptual and logical argument for their characteristics based on linguistics and philosophy of language.
Applying triangular fuzzy number for multi‐sensor object recognition
Authors: Wan Shuping
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Multi‐sensor data fusion (MSDF) is defined as the process of integrating information from multiple sources to produce the most specific and comprehensive unified data about an entity, activity or event. Multi‐sensor object recognition is one of the important technologies of MSDF. It has been widely applied in the fields of navigation, aviation, artificial intelligence, pattern recognition, fuzzy control, robot, and so on. Hence, aimed at the type recognition problem in which the characteristic values of object types and observations of sensors are in the form of triangular fuzzy numbers, the purpose of this paper is to propose a new fusion method from the viewpoint of decision‐making theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This work, first divides the comprehensive transaction process of sensor signal into two phases. Then, aimed at the type recognition problem, the paper gives the definition of similarity degree between two triangular fuzzy numbers. By solving the maximization optimization model, the vector of characteristic weights is objectively derived. A new fusion method is proposed according to the overall similarity degree.

Findings

The results of the experiments show that solving the maximization optimization model improves significantly the objectivity and accuracy of object recognition.

Originality/value

The paper studies the type recognition problem in which the characteristic values of object types and observations of sensors are in the form of triangular fuzzy numbers. By solving the maximization optimization model, the vector of characteristic weights is derived. A new fusion method is proposed. This method improves the objectivity and accuracy of object recognition.
Consumer perceptions of brand functions: an empirical study in China
Authors: Guo Xiaoling (Martine) , Wei Hao Andy , Shang Xiaoyan
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine consumers' perception of brand functions in an emerging market: China. The study also aims to investigate the impact of brand functions on brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

A two‐phase study was conducted. The first phase consisted of 15 personal in‐depth interviews while the structured questionnaires were used to collect data in the second stage and a total of 256 consumers participated in this study.

Findings

The study finds general support that consumer perceives both utilitarian and expressive functions of the brand. Specifically, the results of the research show that for Chinese consumers, brands accomplish various functions such as “recall of past experiences”, “quality sign” and “identify”. Moreover, “recall of past experiences” is a unique brand function for Chinese consumers and has a positive impact on brand loyalty.

Originality/value

To the authors' knowledge, this paper is the first to shed light on examining consumer perceptions of brand functions in the Chinese market.
Consumer loyalty on the grocery product market: an empirical application of Dick and Basu's framework
Authors: Møller Jensen Jan
Published: July 2011

Purpose

This study aims to assess the usefulness of Dick and Basu's framework of customer loyalty to examine consumer loyalty on the grocery product market.

Design/methodology/approach

After a short presentation of Dick and Basu's framework, the article discusses a number of anticipated antecedents and consequences to consumer loyalty on the grocery product market. Next, the four loyalty categories and the hypothesized relationships with antecedents and consequences are tested on empirical data from a large survey investigating brand loyalty across five grocery product categories.

Findings

The results support the presence of Dick and Basu's four loyalty typologies within all the investigated product categories and further provide evidence for the expected differences between product categories with regard to the proportion of loyalty categories within each product category. The results also support relationships between relative attitude and corresponding antecedents and consequences as suggested by Dick and Basu. And, finally, men are found to be less loyal consumers when compared with women.

Practical implications

The study shows that, at least within some categories of grocery products, it is still possible for marketers to create loyal consumers. The importance of building true loyalty is highlighted by the evidence of true loyals being significantly more likely to postpone their purchases if the store is out of their favourite brand, the least likely to switch to another brand if on sale and less keen on variety seeking.

Originality/value

Survey data from 348 households were used to test the hypothesised relationships.