bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate governance research on the free web: a selected annotated guide
Authors: Bury Sophie , Leblanc Richard
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The web offers a large and ever expanding range of information sources on the popular and widely researched topic of corporate governance. This paper aims to introduce keys sites of quality and relevance to those interested in researching the field of corporate governance using freely available web resources. It will also aims to prove useful to librarians who wish to develop web‐based subject pathfinders in this field or who want simply to connect with and build their knowledge of major topics and participants in the field of corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

By way of introduction important or groundbreaking works in the corporate governance literature are identified and cited in the paper to place selected web sites within the context of recent and historic developments in the area of corporate governance. A wide range of web‐based sources were consulted and critically evaluated in the study.

Findings

The result of this work is a significant sampling of quality web‐based information sources with evaluative annotations.

Originality/value

Given the recent explosion in information resources available on the topic of corporate governance, this paper will prove especially timely and useful to anyone interested in accessing and interacting with quality information on the free web from a wide range of significant players and stakeholders in the corporate governance arena.
Introducing CRM into an academic library
Authors: Wang Mei‐Yu
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This case study was conducted with the purpose of discovering the possible barriers when a customer relationship management (CRM) implementing plan was initiated in the library context, and exploring its efficiency and effectiveness after implementation. The study aims to develop initial hunches or insights and to obtain concrete suggestions for a template to use in future developing and implementing efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

To understand the dynamics present within single, real‐life settings during the implementation process, the case study method was adopted.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance to overcome libraries' inexperience in terms of CRM implementation management, and demonstrate that the biggest challenge facing a library is to raise internal awareness of the CRM functions and capabilities that are now provided, and to educate library staff on how these functions and features operate.

Research limitations/implications

The biggest problem of implementing a CRM system in academic libraries is to raise internal awareness of the functions and capabilities that are now provided, to educate library staff on how these functions and features operate, and to clarify the different roles played by the automation system, online reference service and the CRM system.

Practical implications

The initiation into CRM needs not only to address cultural issues, but deal with the fears and anxieties that library staff may have in relation to the adopting the CRM system.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information for those wanting to implement a CRM system in a library context.
Continuing professional development (CPD) in state‐owned university libraries in Ghana
Authors: Adanu Theodosia S.A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The aim of the research was to find out if the work environment of professional librarians in the five state‐owned university libraries in Ghana encouraged continuing professional development (CPD) and to discover who the librarians felt should be responsible for this.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out among professional librarians in the five state‐owned university libraries in Ghana. The study was to find out if their work environment encouraged CPD. The study further investigated who the employees felt should be responsible for their CPD. The importance of a plan for effective CPD was also discussed. Finally, benefits of CPD to the individual professional were looked at. The survey method was used. The instruments for data collection were the questionnaire and interviews.

Findings

The study found that the library environment in the state‐owned universities was supportive to a large extent of CPD. The study revealed that the professional librarian's involvement in CPD was a shared responsibility of the library and the individual. Some benefits derived from CPD by the professional librarians were job advancement and updated skills leading to competence.

Originality/value

It is hoped that the study will encourage library management especially in universities to consider formulating and writing down CPD policies and also to adopt management styles that will make them “learning organisations.”
The quest for excellence: one library's experience
Authors: Chim Winnie
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to trace the development and implementation of the quality assurance system and its continuous review process at the Pao Yue‐kong Library of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. It aims to share with readers the experience gained in developing and implementing the system.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper includes description of the Library's vision, mission and objectives, key performance indicators, multiple feedback mechanisms and quality assurance reporting to the University's senior management, all of which serve as quality control mechanisms monitoring the services, programmes and products the Library provides. It also describes the benchmarking and departmental assessment exercises conducted periodically to recruit further inputs to the quality circle for continuous improvement.

Findings

The study finds that setting up a quality assurance system is a good starting point for quality library service, but successful provision of quality services hinges on the implementation. Management's commitment to service excellence and willingness to respond to user feedback are critical. Other critical success factors noted are the establishment of a formalised quality assurance system, cultivation of staff commitment, understanding and educating the customers, and developing and sharing best practices among the library staff.

Practical implications

This paper will be helpful to libraries planning to implement a quality assurance system to monitor library services for continuous improvement and to increase customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

The Library's quality assurance system is simple and yet highly effective. It is designed to ensure continuous improvement without being burdensome. Libraries planning to implement a simple, measurable, cost effective and common sense assurance system may find this paper helpful.
Promoting library services in a Google world
Authors: Schmidt Janine
Published: July 2007

Purpose

As the younger generation of born digital library users and even well‐established scholars rely increasingly on Google, or its new products Google Scholar and Google Book, for information resource discovery and access, libraries are finding it increasingly difficult to ensure that their own well structured web sites and information services are being utilized appropriately. This paper aims to highlight some of the changes occurring in the information environment and suggests ways of marketing library services effectively to today's users.

Design/methodology/aproach

Marketing concepts are explored in the paper, focusing on a clear understanding of users, the library's products, the appropriate place for service delivery, an appropriate pricing strategy – and effective promotional strategies. Promotional strategies which are being used effectively by some commercial organizations, as well as approaches being developed by some libraries, are highlighted. Practical hints are provided so that libraries can ensure that their missions of ensuring that every book has its reader can be accomplished in a new age of access to information in real books and journals and virtual books and journals and other information resources.

Findings

The paper finds that libraries no longer operate in a “come and get it” environment and new ways of outreach are described which ensure that librarians are out amongst their communities, creating an awareness of the services available and ensuring effective use of resources through a variety of approaches used in university libraries in Australia and at McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

Originality/value

This paper provides useful information on the changes occurring in the information environment and ways of marketing library services effectively to today's users.
Some thoughts on legacy collections
Authors: McCarthy J.P.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the term “legacy collections” and aspects of their present and future states. This is a personal viewpoint.

Design/methodology/approach

Examples of the use of the term are given in the paper and the implied meanings are discussed. Issues surrounding future retention and disposal of such collections are highlighted including the ambiguity resulting from heritage versus inheritance perspectives.

Findings

The paper calls for more in‐depth consideration of these issues and perceptions among library professionals both academic and practitioner.

Research limitations/implications

The paper seeks to highlight issue for discussion rather than offer solutions.

Practical implications

It is timely to raise these questions as the shift from print dominant to digitally dominant libraries escalates.

Originality/value

The Boole Library at University College Cork has been used as a study model and many of the questions which have led to this paper have been composed in the context of the particular bibliographic heritage which it holds.
Assessing trends to cultivate new thinking in academic libraries
Authors: Rogers Sally A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an organized view of current trends affecting academic libraries that one research library developed to encourage new thinking; this view could assist others seeking to help their organizations think differently about the future of information access and management.

Design/methodology/approach

One strategy for identifying important trends using a small number of key resources is highlighted in the paper. A snapshot of the many trends affecting academic libraries is categorized to show interrelationships and to provide specific examples along with a general overview. Included is a brief description of how the snapshot was used by one library. Implications for the future and perspectives on the value of cultivating new thinking are presented in the conclusion.

Findings

The paper finds that rapid and far‐reaching change is challenging libraries to think very differently, to act much more quickly, and to set trends rather than merely react to them. Assessing trends can help libraries foster organizational change through exposure to new ideas and see where new partnerships and areas of expertise must be developed to meet new needs.

Practical implications

The snapshot became the basis for two library‐wide events at Ohio State that better positioned attendees to inform and to accommodate decisions about service priorities, personnel and budget requests.

Originality/value

This paper organizes many diverse trends into a general overview to make inter‐relationships and implications more understandable to those unlikely to develop such a view on their own – for example: university personnel outside the library, middle managers and those they supervise within the library, students of library and information management.
Self‐managing work teams and their external leadership
Authors: Castiglione James
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to review the history, development and utilization of self‐managing work teams (SMWTs) in business and library work environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a review of both the relevant management and library literature, this paper broadens the library literature related to SMWTs with the objective of finding relevant insights applicable to the management of SMWTs in the library environment.

Findings

The paper finds that the use of appropriately designed and implemented SMWTs has the potential to increase employee productivity and workplace satisfaction while reducing absenteeism and employee turnover. Organizational democracy and managerial support are the primary drivers of successful SMWTs. However, the use of SMWTs by library administrators appears to be underutilized.

Research limitations/implications

While the organizational and administrative benefits associated with the use of SMWTs are clear, the reasons why library administrators have not used this tool more frequently remains obscure. Additional research is required to understand the factors – both personal and institutional – that lead library administrators to either adopt or reject innovative managerial tools and techniques generally and SMWTs specifically.

Originality/value

This paper provides an important review of the library and management literature related to the use of SMWTs. The information is presented with the objective of increasing awareness, debate and additional research on the application of SMWTs in the library environment.
Collaborations and alliances: social intelligence applied to academic libraries
Authors: Anglada Lluís M.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyze the different forms of library cooperation and the different types of relations that can be established for collaboration among libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper attempts to show how cooperation as an application of the social intelligence is a tool to improve library services. For that, the paper uses the situation of Spanish university libraries between 1980 and 2005. Adopting an evolutionary approach, the study shows how cooperation has affected library organizations, and concludes that the current situation shows an intelligent adaptation to the needs of society.

Findings

Using the evolution of the academic libraries in Spain between 1980 and 2005, the paper analyzes six different forms of relation or cooperation that can be established by libraries. Those are: companionship, collaboration, association, cooperation, alliances and fraternization. The paper attempts to provide some guidelines for cooperation that may be of value to university libraries in their path towards the future. The approach is global, systemic and evolutionary. It is global in the sense that Spanish university libraries are taken as a model for exemplifying trends that are applicable to all types of libraries all over the world. It is systemic in the sense that it sees the Spanish case as one of a wide range of processes that do not occur in isolation in a world in which libraries – even at an international level – form part of a whole. Finally, it is evolutionary in the sense that it considers that the future will be built on our current achievements, which in turn depended on those of the past.

Originality/value

The paper is of interest because it reveals that the development of individual living beings and species depends to a large extent on their ability to cooperate. Similarly, the development of organizations and groups of organizations depends on their ability to work together and to establish a framework in which individual goals are attained thanks to external achievements or situations. Libraries are no exception to this, and may in fact serve as a paradigmatic example. Throughout history they have tended to develop powerful mechanisms of cooperation.
The individual job seeker in the sphere of contractualism
Authors: Sol Els , Westerveld Mies
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Activation policies in most Western countries have discovered the private tool of contract and in a short period of time the contract has penetrated the whole domain. Among the forerunner countries contracts in different forms, collective as well as individual, have become the central steering instrument. The purpose of this article is to shed some light on what this change can and does entail for the individual job seeker on benefit. Job seekers are no longer expected to passive undergo treatment but expected to contribute actively to one's own return into the labour market. The main rationale behind this shift is the idea that working with contracts increases the level of involvement and, therefore improves results over time: results in terms of better motivated clients, more focused policymakers, providers and frontline workers delivering client‐orientated services.

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative research the article maps the different types of contracts using empirical material from eight countries.

Findings

The findings are presented in the form of the practical potentials and pittfalls of contracts for the individual.

Originality/value

A major added value is the multidisciplinary approach used by the authors; the phenomenon of contracts is analysed from a social science and a legal point of view.
Changing modes of governance in activation policies in France and The Netherlands: common path or countermodel?
Authors: van Gestel Nicolette , Herbillon Jean‐Michel
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To explore and explain differences in reform of activation policies, comparing the shifts in governance in France and The Netherlands from the 1990s onwards.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on in‐depth case studies of the reform process in activation policies, using documentary sources and interviews with several stake‐holders. The theoretical scope is the debate on institutional change, path‐dependency and convergence.

Findings

Although both countries demonstrate converging tendencies in the transformation of their activation policies, there are remarkable differences in the new modes of governance. Moving away from a traditionally hierarchical organisation, France is gradually developing a network model with more emphasis on decentralisation. Alternatively, The Netherlands privatised their public employment services and explore principal – agent realtions in activation. The institutional context of both nation, in particular the concept of path‐dependency, seems crucial in the explanation of these differences. However, some new elements are path‐breaking in a national context but do not illustrate converging trends.

Research limitations/implications

This comparative study is aimed at the fields of employment services, social benefits and social assistance in two countries. For a more complete approach of the changes is activation policies, further research is needed to include other fields of social policy and other nations whithin Europe.

Originality/value

The paper develops both empirical and theoretical conclusions on the path‐dependent and convergin elements in transforming labour market coordination throughout Europe.
Re‐activating the Nordic welfare states: do we find a distinct universalistic model?
Authors: Johansson Håkan , Hvinden Bjørn
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To clarify the core characteristics of Nordic activation policies in the context of typologies of European activation governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses activation governance in the light of the basic values and beliefs behind the formation of the Nordic social protection systems in the mid‐20th century. Recent model‐building efforts see the Nordic countries as being close to a “universalistic” and egalitarian type of activation policy that does not systematically submit citizens to work requirements. The authors ask whether this model captures the actual scope and contents of Nordic activation governance.

Findings

The Nordic countries‐based relatively generous income security systems on a strong work ethic and ambitions to maximise labour market participation of the working‐age population. Citizens's rights to income security were generally linked to the fulfilment of work requirements. Although this active governance of unemployed citizens eroded in the 1970s and 1980s all the Nordic countries revived it after 1990. Largely reflecting the dual structure of the income protection system, Nordic active approaches to activation are not egalitarian.

Research limitations/implications

Nordic countries are currently implementing major administrative reforms in social protection, possibly creating more unified and egalitarian governance of activation. Future research needs to assess the impact of these reforms.

Originality/value

The article presents an analysis of activation policies that so far has been missing from comparative research and that will be of particular value for non‐Nordic readers who may have received a biased view of Nordic activation policies.
Automated lamp manufacture
Authors: Hunt James A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to describe automated lamp manufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides information on the automated manufacture of incandescent, fluorescent and light‐emitting diodes (LEDs).

Findings

The paper finds that the automated manufacture of conventional lamp types is similar, but LEDs require totally different techniques developed from the semiconductor industry.

Originality/value

The paper should be of value in terms of understanding the basics of automated lamp manufacturing, especially with LEDs, as these will be highly important general lighting products to save energy and provide innovation in lighting design in the near future.
Application of fused deposition modelling in controlled drug delivery devices
Authors: Masood S.H.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present an investigation on building controlled drug delivery device (DDD) matrix using fused deposition modelling (FDM) rapid prototyping (RP) process. The focus of the study is on the effect of FDM fabricated macro‐features of reservoir‐matrix DDD models on the drug release rates through the diffusion process.

Design/methodology/approach

Using various parameters involved with FDM, polymeric DDD matrices with different macro‐features are designed and fabricated on the FDM3000 machine. Experiments are conducted to study the release characteristics and porosity of the fabricated models with a model drug and to see how they are affected by FDM build parameters.

Findings

Experimental results show that FDM parameters, raster gap and raster angle, play significant roles in controlling the structure and drug release characteristics of the FDM fabricated DDDs. The experimental observations reveal that appropriate FDM parameters can be selected to fabricate controlled DDD device with desired release rate of drug and the desired period of operation of the device.

Originality/value

The paper introduces a novel application of FDM RP system in the development and fabrication of polymeric controlled DDDs. The controlled release of drugs is an important area in which RP techniques can be successfully used in developing models of release matrix for DDDs with added benefits of accuracy, uniformity and low costs compared with conventional methods.
Improvement of parallel robots for handling and assembly tasks
Authors: Krefft Mathias , Last Philipp , Budde Christoph , Maass Jochen , Hesselbach Jürgen , Wahl Friedrich M.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to establish parallel robots with strong performance characteristics in handling and assembly processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The presented work introduces concepts and solutions related to the improvement of parallel kinematic mechanisms. Structural design topics and modeling approaches are as well considered as control schemes and new machine components particularly designed for high‐dynamic parallel robots. The results have been achieved by a unique interdisciplinary research group linking knowledge from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science.

Findings

The paper found numerous individually applicable methods leading to an improved efficiency of parallel robots. Several of the developments have been already implemented and validated by various self‐built machine prototypes and a new control system.

Originality/value

Owing to higher stiffness, accuracy and improved dynamic behavior parallel robots proved to be an efficient and suitable supplement to serial robots. By means of the various developments contributed in this paper, the promising potential of this class of robots is once more emphasized and further strengthened.
Integrated robotic system for high precision assembly in a semi‐structured environment
Authors: Chen Heping , Zhang George , Zhang Hui , Fuhlbrigge Thomas A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a strategy for high‐precision assembly in a semi‐structured environment based on vision and force control.

Design/methodology/approach

The position and orientation of a part are identified using the vision system. The force/torque control algorithm is then applied to perform a tight‐tolerance assembly that is a high‐precision assembly.

Findings

The tight tolerance assembly in a semi‐structured environment is successfully implemented using vision guidance and force/torque‐control strategy.

Practical implications

The developed methodology can be applied to tight tolerance assembly, such as forward‐clutch assembly, torque‐converter assembly, etc.

Originality/value

An industrial assembly methodology has been developed and implemented for high‐precision assembly in a semi‐structured environment. This innovation has many potential applications in automotive manufacturing.
“Plug & Produce” functions for an easily reconfigurable robotic assembly cell
Authors: Maeda Yusuke , Kikuchi Haruka , Izawa Hidemitsu , Ogawa Hiroki , Sugi Masao , Arai Tamio
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an easily reconfigurable assembly cell.

Design/methodology/approach

Some functions are implemented to resolve problems associated with physical reconfiguration of an agent‐based robotic assembly cell, such as position calibration and workspace allocation.

Findings

The implemented prototype assembly cell is composed of industrial manipulators and a belt conveyor. Installation of a new manipulator and assembly execution are successfully demonstrated on the prototype cell.

Practical implications

In the developed assembly system, installation and removal of assembly devices are easily performed so that it can adapt to changes in the manufacturing environment quickly.

Originality/value

The developed system does not use specially designed hardware. Easy reconfiguration is enabled using conventional devices such as manipulators and belt conveyors.
ACRL 13th National Conference Report
Authors: Scaramozzino Jeanine M. , Gelfand Julia
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To report on the ACRL 13th National Conference held March 29–April 1, 2007 in Baltimore, MD.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides an overview of the conference and reviews of specific events.

Findings

Outimes the pre‐conference events and four limited presentations.

Originality/value

A conference report of interest to academic and research librarians and information professionals about issues related to and trends in academic libraries and librarians.
Course Management Systems: Overview and Implications for Libraries
Authors: Piña Anthony A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Course management systems (CMS) have an increasing role in information technologies found in all schools and learning environments today. Commonly, the backbone for how faculty teach distance education, CMS also has a role in classroom activities as faculty and instructors mount curriculum for students to consult and use at their own level and pace.

Design/methodology/approach

This article suggests that CMS is a mainstream technology for academic libraries as they introduce and utilize a range of courseware products adopted for their students and academic programs.

Findings:

Course management software and systems allow libraries to serve teaching faculty in ways that cooperation was not practiced until such products were available. Librarians became more integrated in the teaching process and now commonly support this technology and guide faculty in how best to use it for their teaching needs.

Originality/value

Still at an early stage of collaboration between proponents of library technology and CMS, it is clear that this technology will grow deeper roots in library services and platforms will increasingly include CMS.
The World of Marine Information for Everyone: The National Aquarium of Cuba/Acuario Nacional de Cuba (ANC)
Authors: Ramos Marisol , de los Ángeles Ginori Gilkes María
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Aims to provide profile of the Acuario Nacional de Cuba's Library and its librarian María de Los Ángeles Ginori Gilkes.

Design/methodology/approach

A descupture approach is taken.

Findings

Even though, international relations are strained between many countries and Cuba, this librarian is well connected in the world of aquatics and marine libraries and contributes to indexing services and academic scholarship.

Originality/value

Provides interesting insights into a Cuban library.
The Birth of Catalog 2.0: Innovative Interfaces’ Encore Discovery Platform
Authors: Fifarek Aimee
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To discuss Web 2.0 technologies and development styles for the library catalog, specifically with regard to Innovative Interfaces’ Encore product.

Design/methodology/approach

A resirption of the technologies is provided.

Findings

Innovative Interfaces has employed a rapid development methodology that involves end users early on the iterative process. Innovative has adopted a methodology between the “always in beta” chaos of web development and the stable but slow mega release cycle traditionally employed by Interactive Library Systems (ILS) vendors. Originality /value: This evolution in the ILS development cycle has resulted in a product that leverages the stable technologies of at the heart of traditional library services and packaged them in such a way as to be appealing and useful to the “born online” generation.
The RCampus: A Universal Platform for Learning
Authors: Sabetiashraf Ramesh
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Introduction of RCampus.com, a free and open‐access platform for learning and education management. This article describes some of the open services of RCampus including the course management and ePortfolio system, rubric builder and assessment tool, and The Book Exchange Network.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes what different services are available on RCampus.

Finddings

Illustrates how any faculty or student can create a free ePortfolio and website to manage courses over multiple schools, and keep his/her work permanently.

Originality/value

This paper was prepared by the original developer of RCampus, an adjunct faculty member in a computer science department.
The importance of packaging design for own‐label food brands
Authors: Wells L.E. , Farley H. , Armstrong G.A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the importance of packaging design for a UK premium own‐label food brand, by developing an understanding of how consumers evaluate own‐label packaging, providing an insight into their shopping behaviour regarding premium own‐label desserts and identifying the factors that influence their purchase decisions. Implicit in this is a need to establish how the packaging designs of premium own‐label products influence the purchase decisions of consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on the findings of participant observational exercises employed at two Tesco stores.

Findings

Overall, analysis of findings would clearly indicate that there is a strong association regarding the influence of packaging on the purchase decision, with over 73 per cent of interviewed consumers stating that they rely on packaging to aid their decision‐making process at the point of purchase.

Research limitations/implications

This study reports on the preliminary findings of the first stage of a research project. Future studies could extend this research by considering the importance of packaging for products with lower experiential benefits than those offered by premium desserts or, additionally, by employing a comparative study of own‐label brands.

Practical implications

As own‐label brands are exclusive to, and owned by, the retailer they have potentially the opportunity to develop packaging designs that are even more attuned to their customer base than those offered by the equivalent range of branded products.

Originality/value

This paper presents empirical research investigating the importance of packaging design for own‐label food brands.
The management of deshopping and its effects on service
Authors: King Tamira , Dennis Charles , McHendry Joanne
Published: July 2007

Purpose

Deshopping is the return of products, after they have fulfilled the purpose for which they were borrowed. Previous research indicates that deshopping is a prevalent and growing consumer behaviour. This paper seeks to examine deshopping from a retail perspective. It is a case study of interviews conducted with a mass‐market retailer, to investigate their awareness and management of this behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a case study of nine interviews conducted with different levels of staff at a mass‐market retailer in their flagship London store, to investigate their awareness and management of deshopping.

Findings

The findings demonstrate the beliefs, attitudes and emotions of the different levels of employees towards deshopping and demonstrate their attempts to manage deshopping and combat the negative affects of this on customer service.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this research is that it is only conducted with one high‐street retailer. However, it is important to highlight that this is a large women's wear retailer which is highly representative of other retailers within the sector. There is little detail given regarding the retailer itself or their fundamentals of the actual customer service policy; this is due to the confidentiality agreement between the researcher and retailer. It is important to acknowledge the sensitivity of this type of research to retailers who are reluctant to have this information publicised. It is also important to acknowledge that many retailers have not made any attempts to manage this behaviour by restricting their returns policy. So, this research case study is conducted with a retailer that is actively introducing change to manage this behaviour.

Practical implications

The research concludes with the implications of deshopping and its management and makes recommendations on how to reduce deshopping whilst maintaining customer service for the genuine consumer.

Originality/value

This is the first case study with a mass‐market retailer, highlighting their approaches towards managing deshopping whilst trying to maintain customer service.
Three steps for successful implementation of sales portals in CPG companies
Authors: Noorani H.S. , Kodandarama Setty M.B.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The paper attempts to provide a structured process for consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies which wish to implement sales portals in their organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach to the framework is largely derived from the authors' experience with CPG companies. It also involves reference to some secondary information. The paper also presents an example of a case study to validate the benefits of a structured approach to sales portal implementation.

Findings

The paper throws light on why CPG companies fail to implement sales portals and prescribes a three‐step approach to streamline the implementation process.

Practical implications

The paper presents a ready guide on what needs to be considered while implementing a sales portal across different channel partners.

Originality/value

The paper is an original work based on rich experience in the CPG field and provides a simple method for companies planning to implement sales portals.
HR in all its glory
Authors: Marques Joan
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This article presents the diverse responsibilities of the HR department in organizations that strive for leadership within their sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Lists and explains these responsibilities, and highlights how they are connected.

Findings

Advocates that at the foundation of an HR department's responsibilities should be an immediate and continuous connection with strategic management and with departmental heads, so that the workforce can be geared toward any new requirements.

Practical implications

Presents a useful way forward for HR departments that find themselves simply fulfilling the functions of the old personnel division for database and administration, for pushing around the papers regarding employees' performance, and for posting job vacancies.

Originality/value

Emphasizes the role of HR as a link between top management and employees.
British Airways: the case for a human makeover
Authors: Ledwidge Jonathan
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This article advances the view that British Airways could be less prone to disruptions and public‐relations blunders if it adopted the human‐asset approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes the main aspects of the human‐asset approach, shows how it has been successful at Toyota and Jet Blue, and reveals the ways in which it could help British Airways to rediscover the success it enjoyed in the aftermath of privatization.

Findings

Argues that BA's drive for efficiency – in terms of relentless cost‐cutting and outsourcing – came at a cost as the airline experienced industrial disputes and employee unrest that dented its image. Puts forward the opinion that approaching efficiency from a human perspective provides organizations with a more sustainable and effective business model, where values drive the efficiency and productivity necessary for success. Explains how Toyota and Jet Blue have adopted such a model.

Practical implications

Reveals that there is no magic formula for developing a human asset model for a particular business; it needs thorough analysis of the needs of human assets, and the main factors and values that drive the quality of relationships between them.

Originality/value

Contends that the human‐asset model provides an effective framework for integrating HR with the business strategy.
Colleagues turn counsellors in BBC's pioneering program
Authors: Nathan Rob
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This article describes how, when the BBC announced a round of 2,000 redundancies in late 2004, it decided to train a large number of its own employees – both within the HR department and outside it – to support their own colleagues during the period of upheaval.

Design/methodology/approach

Details the author's experiences as he trained BBC managers how to guide employees through the process of redundancy and finding new jobs.

Findings

Reveals that, by bringing career support in‐house, as opposed to using external outplacement, the BBC devised a cost‐effective solution that delivered considerable return on investment and helped to preserve the reputation of the organization at a time of difficulty.

Practical implications

Demonstrates that, by employing outside consultants to train BBC employees to become internal career coaches to work with people leaving the organization, it used the wide array of talent available within the corporation.

Originality/value

Describes an unusual method of boosting HR resources when an organization makes a large number of people redundant.
Interview with Richard Lepsinger
Authors: by Rachel Brown Interview
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an interview with Richard Lepsinger on flexible leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an interview with Richard Lepsinger exploring the model of flexible leadership.

Findings

Richard Lepsinger provides views and a case study of flexible leadership.

Originality/value

The paper provides an insightful interview with Richard Lepsinger.
Organizational justice and conflict management styles
Authors: Tatum B. Charles , Eberlin Richard J.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a set of role playing exercises for teachers that demonstrates to their students the relationship between organizational justice and conflict management.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives are achieved by presenting two scenarios that illustrate a manager who conducts a performance review and is highly sensitive to organizational justice issues and a manager who conducts a performance review and disregards organizational justice issues. Students are allowed to role play several conflict management styles adopted by these two managers, and observe the effects these styles might have on the organization, the employees, and the outcome of the performance review.

Findings

The article proposes that a student will learn the value of organizational justice and discover the negative consequences for the manager who fails to attend to both the social and structural elements of the just and fair treatment of employees. Students will learn new techniques for handling conflict; in particular, the conflict that arises during performance reviews.

Originality/value

The relationship between organizational justice and conflict management has received very little attention in the literature. The exercises in this article will expose the student to a new way of viewing management decisions and treatment of employees. The hope is that these insights will carry over into real‐world practices that benefit the employees, the managers, and the organization.
The effects of conflict asymmetry on mediation outcomes
Authors: Jehn Karen A. , Rupert Joyce , Nauta Aukje
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to link conflict and mediation theory to practice using an asymmetry framework. Past conflict research often assumes that conflict parties perceive the same amount of conflict, neglecting that members may have different perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted surveys and interviews with 30 conflict parties involved in mediation and examined the effects of asymmetry of parties' perceptions of task and relationship conflict on absenteeism, motivation, and satisfaction with the mediation. In addition, mediator bias was considered as another asymmetry variable that influences mediation success.

Findings

Using quantitative and qualitative data it was found that these perceived asymmetries were negatively associated with work motivation and satisfaction, and positively associated with absenteeism.

Originality/value

Recommendations for mediators and organizations are provided.
Competitive and cooperative conflict communication climates
Authors: Harrison Tyler R. , Doerfel Marya L.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the role of ombuds processes on commitment and trust to the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is framed by and builds on theories about cooperation‐competition, procedural justice, and third party intervention (ombudsman processes) in managing organizational relationships. Data for this study come from semi‐structured longitudinal interviews with 45 participants (138 interviews total) during active pursuit of a grievance through the ombuds process.

Findings

Organizational commitment and trust are fluid processes created through symbolic interaction with organizational actors. Interaction with these actors, over time, influences commitment to the organization.

Research limitations/implications

This study reports on the perspective of the person pursuing the grievance through one ombuds office. Future research should explore perspectives of both parties and in different organizational contexts.

Practical implications

The use of ombuds processes to manage conflicts may restore trust and commitment in the organization. Key to this is the use of processes that demonstrate fair procedures and effective communication by high status organizations actors.

Originality/value

This paper provides new insight into the effects of conflict and conflict management in organizations and is of value to organizational leaders, managers, ombudspersons, and other conflict management specialists.
National diversity and conflict in multinational workgroups
Authors: Ayub Nailah , Jehn Karen A.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To develop a theory to explain how national diversity within a workgroup can lead to intra‐group conflict, and how this effect may be exacerbated in the presence of nationalistic attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

Defines and discusses what national diversity is and why it is relevant to multinational organizations. Then constructs a multi‐level, theoretical framework to propose the conditions under which national diversity may lead to high levels of conflict. Describes and explains the role of nationalism (i.e. individuals' attitude towards their and others' nationalities) in diverse workgroups and explore the moderating effect of nationalism on the relationship between national diversity and intra‐group conflict.

Findings

Proposes that in nationally diverse workgroups the presence of workgroup members with strong nationalistic attitudes (e.g. ingroup favoritism and outgroup rejection) will exacerbate the likelihood that national diversity may lead to relationship conflict and process conflict, and that it will weaken the likelihood that national diversity leads to task conflict.

Originality/value

The model demonstrates the necessity of examining national diversity and the factors and conditions, such as the presence of nationalistic attitudes that may hinder the potential of a nationally diverse workgroup.
Conflict resolution styles between co‐workers in US and Mexican cultures
Authors: Posthuma Richard A. , White George O. , Dworkin James B. , Yánez Oscar , Stella Swift Maris
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how national culture and proximity to national borders can influence the conflict styles that co‐workers use between themselves.

Design/methodology/approach

In this experiment, samples were drawn from regions near the US Mexican border further north in the USA and further South in Mexico. Total n=549. Participants were presented with different conflict styles of co‐workers and asked how they would respond. A new measure of national origin was developed and used to assess affinity with a particular culture based on familial lineage.

Findings

This study shows that conflict resolution styles of co‐workers in the USA are different from those in Mexico. Culture also moderates the relationship among the conflict resolution styles of the co‐workers themselves. Mexicans were generally more contending and less yielding to co‐workers than Americans. However, Mexicans were also more likely than Americans to respond to contending co‐workers by accommodating or by compromising with the co‐worker. National Origin and border location influenced choice of conflict resolution styles in both American and Mexican workers.

Originality/value

Proximity to national borders can influence degrees of cultural identity, which can in turn, influence preferred conflict styles. Degrees of national cultural identity can be measured using familial lineage.