bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disability awareness training for library staff: evaluating an online module
Authors: Forrest Margaret E.S.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore the views of library staff on the effectiveness of an online training module in disability awareness and to evaluate the appropriateness of this method of delivery for staff development in an academic library.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 14 library staff participated in a five week web‐driven training module at the University of Dundee Library using the institutional virtual learning environment (VLE). Results of a pre‐ and post‐study quiz were analysed to evaluate any change in participants’ awareness of disability matters. Opinions of staff on the effectiveness of the training programme were obtained via questionnaire.

Findings

Following the programme there was an increase in participants’ awareness and knowledge of the subject. Library staff commented favourably on the value and effectiveness of the module.

Research limitations/implications

All the participants in this study were employees of one Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Scotland. An extension of the study could be developed by making the course available to library staff at other HEIs and exploring the value of the programme to these participants and their employers.

Practical implications

Highlights the value of using an institutional VLE to deliver accessible and flexible online learning opportunities for staff in academic libraries.

Originality/value

Offers a possible solution to staff development needs of academic institutions seeking to meet the requirements of disability equality legislation to ensure disabled users are treated fairly and with the support they require.
Library and information service delivery in an era of change and reform: librarians and NEEDS
Authors: Omekwu Charles O.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate librarians' level of responsiveness in an era of policy change and reform.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted was to introduce and describe the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS) as a major policy framework in Nigeria. A purposive sampling approach was used to survey librarians' familiarity and knowledge of the NEEDS concept. In all 54 questionnaires were distributed and 36 were returned. Descriptive statistics were used to generate data for discussion.

Findings

Majority of the respondents did not understand fully the NEEDS concept; were not familiar with the NEEDS document, institutional and macroeconomic frameworks, NEEDS vision, values and principles. Less numbers were very correct or correct as to whether their libraries had a copy of the NEEDS document. Many of the librarians had neither seem or read the document; less than 50 per cent of the respondents knew where to obtain the NEEDS document; knew that the NEEDS document can be accessed online and downloaded from the web. Majority did not know that the NEEDS secretariat is located at the National Planning Commission.; confessed that they can not answer reference question on NEEDS. Only five indicated that they responded to the invitation for comments and suggestions during the formulation of the NEEDS document.

Practical implications

It is critical for the Nigerian Library Association to heighten its information advocacy role in an environment of change and reform. Librarians must be proactive in an environment of change and reforms.

Originality/value

A fundamental study that challenges librarians to relate to the change and reforms occurring in the organizational, transactional and contextual environments of their work.
Work satisfaction, organizational commitment and withdrawal behaviours
Authors: Falkenburg Karin , Schyns Birgit
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The focus of this research paper is on the effects of work satisfaction and organizational commitment on withdrawal behaviours. In order to acquire a better understanding of this relationship, the moderating effects of work satisfaction and organizational commitment are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire study was undertaken with Dutch and Slovakian respondents.

Findings

Although the results do yield support for the claim that work satisfaction and organizational commitment have moderating effects on withdrawal behaviours, not all the hypotheses were confirmed, particularly in the case of sample two.

Research limitations/implications

Although a cross‐sectional design was used, light was shed on the complex relationship between work satisfaction, organizational commitment and withdrawal behaviours.

Practical implications

The results suggest that targeting one employee attitude in order to prevent withdrawal behaviours may not be enough. It is recommended to focus on a combined pattern of attitudes to obtain the desired goals.

Originality/value

Rather than concentrating on single relationships, this paper examines the effects of two employee attitudes on withdrawal behaviours, taking into account moderator effects.
Holistic versus decomposed ratings of general dimensions of work activity
Authors: Gibson Shanan G. , Harvey Robert J. , Harris Michael L.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the accuracy of the US Department of Labor's Occupational Information Network (O*NET), which, replacing theDictionary of Occupational Titles, analyzes jobs via a hierarchical taxonomy of work in which all task‐level activities are summarized into a 42‐construct taxonomy of first‐order generalized work activities (GWAs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined the degree of convergence between ratings made using the holistic‐judgment process in the O*NET (which directly rates GWAs using single‐item scales) vs traditional decomposed‐judgment methods which statistically combine ratings of multiple activity items for each GWA.

Findings

Analysis of holistic O*NET general work activity ratings with decomposed common‐metric questionnaire (CMQ) ratings revealed poor convergence between holistic vs decomposed methods, low interrater agreement and a tendency for incumbents to rate higher than job analysts.

Practical implications

It is believed that these results raise significant questions regarding the O*NET's plan to rely on unverified holistic ratings obtained from relatively small, volunteer samples of job incumbents to maintain its database over time. There is a clear risk of producing a database of uncertain quality and comparability with the existing analyst ratings. It is concluded that the criteria of quality, accuracy and verifiability should be paramount in efforts to develop a national database of occupational information.

Originality/value

This study is the only empirical analysis of the degree of convergence between ratings made using the holistic‐judgment O*NET and a traditional decomposed‐judgment job analysis. Because job analysis forms the foundation for many human resources functions, effectively setting the standards that drive recruiting efforts, establishing the criteria that are used in hiring, promoting, evaluating, and equitably compensating employees, and forming the basis for many employee training programs, it is absolutely essential that any data source utilized for these purposes should be both accurate and verifiable. This study not only furthers efforts to tests the validity of the O*NET, it also provides empirical evidence of its potential shortcomings.
Assessing business model concepts with taxonomical research criteria
Authors: Mäkinen Saku , Seppänen Marko
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize taxonomical criteria that can be used for assessing research constructs and assess current business model conceptualizations. The paper attempts to show how the criticism plaguing current business model conceptualizations could be removed with future conceptual development against these taxonomical criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper synthesizes taxonomical criteria and assesses current business model conceptualizations.

Findings

The results of the paper revealed that the current business model concepts comply poorly with the taxonomical criteria. The assessment of taxonomical compliance in this paper exposed major opportunities for enhancements in the existing conceptualizations of business model.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the paper outline novel avenues for future research in developing more coherent and rigorous business model conceptualizations.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the paper are that current conceptualizations of a business model are at best incommensurate and at worst even misleading. This paper presents criteria that may be used in guiding the necessary caution and careful deliberation when practical application of the current business model conceptualizations is enforced.

Originality/value

The paper is original in that it establishes the taxonomical criteria, which may be used in research seeking to develop more sound and rigorous business model conceptualizations. To advance this new field the paper concludes that the taxonomical criteria can aid in the future research endeavors to design relevant business model conceptualizations.
Comparing the levels of individualism/collectivism between baby boomers and generation X
Authors: Sirias Danilo , Karp H.B. , Brotherton Timothy
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the attitudes of the largest groups in today's workforce, the baby boomers (born between 1945 and 1962) and generation X (born between 1963 and 1982) on team formation. The study measures individualism‐collectivism levels on five dimensions in both groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on survey research (n=434), data were analyzed using factor analyses (extraction and rotation choices) consistent with previous research.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that an updated paradigm for team‐building needs to be developed that encourages individual identity and personal values as well as those of the group.

Research limitations/implications

The authors did not examine all of the potential social and cultural influences on team behaviour (e.g. nationality, ethnicity or religious influences). Future research should attempt to either measure or control for more of these variables.

Practical implications

Past management paradigms on team formation must be adapted to current managerial needs. The “melting‐pot” analogy, where individual team members completely subordinate themselves to the needs of the team, is obsolete. A more appropriate analogy would be the “salad bowl”, where individuals work together, yet do not have to give up their individuality. This paradigm might pose new challenges in its implementation, but the greater acceptance of diversity can, paradoxically, foster a greater level of authentic team spirit.

Originality/value

This research examines the generational effects on teamwork within a changing workforce. Managers directly involved with team formation and maintenance are likely to be those who benefit most from this research. However, everyone involved in a team‐based environment should find it useful.
Development strategies for Indian SMEs: promoting linkages with global transnational corporations
Authors: Bala Subrahmanya M.H.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to trace the scope and dimensions of global opportunities that emerge in the era of globalization through the rapid growth of transnational corporations (TNCs), which Indian small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) could exploit. The backdrop to the discussion is the growth of small‐scale industries (SSIs) in the era of globalization relative to the pre‐globalization era, with a particular focus on their export performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on secondary data, the growth of SSIs is analyzed and the scope of global opportunities for Indian SMEs is explored.

Findings

Although the growth of the SSIs segment of the SME sector in India has slowed in terms of the number of enterprises, level of people employed and production, SSI export performance has been impressive in the globalization period. The SSI sector has grown more towards the international market than the domestic market in the globalization era. Globalization has offered new markets to SMEs primarily through two major developments: the adoption of a complex integration strategy by TNCs for their production network, and the global procurement strategies and global expansion of TNC supermarket chains.

Practical implications

The paper prescribes a dual strategy of vertical integration of local SMEs with global TNCs for the production of intermediate goods and horizontal cooperation through networking among local SMEs to link up with global TNCs for the production and marketing of consumer goods. The role of Indian policymakers as a facilitator in the process is emphasized.

Originality/value

This paper throws light on recent growth performance of small‐scale enterprises in India and provides insight on the emerging global opportunities to Indian SMEs, which need to be given due consideration by Indian policymakers for exploitation.
Swearing at work and permissive leadership culture
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Jenkins Stuart
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of expletives and swearing in the workplace. It proposes to challenge leadership style and to suggest ideas for management best practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Case studies and qualitative analysis were applied, methods that fit well for this sensitive topic.

Findings

This paper identifies the relevance, and even the importance, of using non‐conventional and sometimes uncivil language in the workplace.

Research limitations/implications

Sample size and representativeness present limitations.

Practical implications

There is a need for leaders to apply, under certain circumstances, a permissive leadership culture. This paper advises leaders on how it may lead to positive consequences.

Originality/value

The paper is an original contribution to an area where research is scarce. A certain originality element stems from the fact that, focusing on swearing language, the paper found it necessary to use swear words (avoiding usage of the explicit form); bearing in mind the purpose of the paper, the paper hopes that this will not cause offence to the readership of the journal.
Leadership preferences in Japan: an exploratory study
Authors: Fukushige Aya , Spicer David P.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to explore Japanese followers' leadership preferences and consider the suitability of Bass and Avolio's full‐range leadership model in Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach is used predominantly, including template analyses and several content analyses. Data collection is divided into two phases: Phase 1 was conducted by semi‐structured interviews and Phase 2 by questionnaires.

Findings

Results suggest the unsuitability of Bass and Avolio's full‐range leadership model in a Japanese context, indicate some impact of cultural changes in Japan, and identify liberal, trust, punctual, network, protective, and after‐five as Japanese culture‐specific preferred leadership styles.

Research limitations/implications

The paper indicates that in a Japanese context not only is the new leadership approach of Bass and Avolio's model of value but also the traditional approach of House's path‐goal theory. Whilst the qualitative data of this study give insight into existing theories and leadership perspectives in Japan, findings should be further examined in future research.

Practical implications

The paper offers guidance for leaders who deal with Japanese followers by identifying leadership styles within Bass and Avolio's model, and culture‐specific leadership styles which are particularly preferred by Japanese followers.

Originality/value

This paper identified that, building upon Bass and Avolio's and House's leadership theories, a new Japanese leadership model, which particularly suits contemporary Japanese followers' leadership preferences, should be developed.
Leader‐member exchange (LMX) theory of leadership and HRD
Authors: Kang Dae‐seok , Stewart Jim
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between leader‐member exchange (LMX) and human resource development (HRD) to gain a better understanding of the LMX‐performance relationship through connecting LMX and HRD theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Dubin's framework is used for the purpose of linking LMX with HRD. Except that the last three steps (empirical indicators of key terms, hypotheses, testing) involved conducting empirical research, the authors employ steps 1 through 5 to build an HRD‐based LMX model, i.e. the first step specifies that the units of the theory be identified; the second step involves establishing the laws of interaction applicable to the units of the theory. The third and fourth steps define boundaries for an HRD‐based LMX model and suggest propositions for future empirical research. In addition, to lessen the likelihood of some redundancy the system states are included with the laws of interaction.

Findings

LMX and HRD (as represented by identified outcomes) theories are linked by at least three key factors: trust, empowerment, and performance. A theoretical model linking LMX and HRD also describes the contributions of trust, empowerment, and performance to LMX theory of leadership with the help of two specific HRD interventions – trust building and empowerment facilitation.

Research limitations/implications

The confirmation of the theoretical model through empirical research is still required.

Practical implications

In the aspect of relational performance, this paper proposes a basis for designing and implementing strategic HRD activities and recommends the conceptual model as an intervention technique for organizational change.

Originality/value

This paper illuminates the base of LMX leadership theory and seeks to develop new practical insights of the theory. In so doing, it aims to contribute to reducing the tension between leadership theorists and leadership development practitioners, described as validity versus usefulness.
Expectations of emotional display in the workplace
Authors: Mann Sandi
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to portray that, while particular types of emotional displays are often essential for team and service work, the negative consequences of conforming with display rules need to be weighed against their true necessity. This research seeks to examine their necessity in terms of the expectations that people have of the emotional displays of others, so that potentially stressful emotional work can be targeted appropriately within organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative study uses a questionnaire approach to assess the expectations that 121 UK and 101 US participants have towards the emotional displays of various service providers and work colleagues.

Findings

Expectations of emotional display were shown to differ across cultures, between jobs and roles within an organization, and between males and females.

Practical implications

The implications for managers and practitioners centre on the value placed on encouraging warm emotional displays at various levels within the organization. The findings suggest that these should not be limited to frontline communications and this may impact on selection and training procedures. Managers will be better able to target emotion work within those interactions where such performance is most expected and required.

Originality/value

Whilst a great deal of research has been conducted into the emotional displays and emotional labour performance of employees, little has examined the expectations that individuals have about these displays. This is an important gap since such information allows practitioners to better target their emotion management strategies in the right areas and limit the potentially harmful consequences to health of chronic emotion work where it is less necessary.
Legitimation and group conversational practices: implications for managing change
Authors: O'Neill Alan , Jabri Muayyad
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to show that the knowledge that many change efforts fail to deliver meaningful results is by no means new, but understanding why this is the case remains an important issue for those involved in the management of change. In this paper, the authors question the current emphasis of popularly held explanations of implementation failure by proposing an alternative perspective that draws on social constructionist theory. The authors argue that failure to recognize the legitimizing role and function of conversation has a significant contribution to implementation failure.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws upon observations and information collected as part of a two‐year longitudinal study conducted in an organization and two of its sales offices operating in the Asia Pacific Rim to support and illustrate the conceptual development of the theory presented.

Findings

Change efforts will be negatively affected when new perceptions are not assimilated into the daily language and conversational practices used in the various groups and sub‐groups that make up an organization. The authors present a model to demonstrate how various types of conversation within an organizational setting legitimize perceptions of reality, and how business leaders and change agents can work with this model in order to improve the likelihood of a successful implementation.

Research limitations/implications

Guided by the work of Berger and Luckmann, the authors demonstrate how four levels of legitimization, upon which social constructions of reality proceed, have a significant contribution to play in determining the outcome of a change initiative.

Originality/value

This paper provides a framework that will assist business leaders and change agents to assess how their organization's conversational legitimization processes may work for or against a proposed change, and what conversational practices will need to be altered to positively influence the outcome.
Fostering talent opportunity: getting past first‐base
Authors: Glen Clayton
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify key new dynamics in the talent pool; identify the role of opportunity in the development of organizational talent; distinguish between the effectiveness of image and leadership behaviors in the attraction and retention of key organizational talent; touch on the key talent management areas which are well managed by successful organizations: employer brand/employee of choice strategy, employee engagement, coaching, project and stretch opportunities, and redeployment/outplacement; and to reiterate the need for senior ownership of the talent strategy, without which most talent strategies are doomed to remain expensive means to an elusive end

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an opinion paper, which draws broadly on a range of talent management experience, and it identifies key acid tests of talent strategy success

Findings

Reiterates the need for senior ownership of the talent strategy.

Originality/value

The paper identifies key acid tests of talent strategy success.
From bolometers to beetles: the development of thermal imaging sensors
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to describe and discuss the historical development of IR sensors used in thermal imaging and to identify and consider some recent research trends.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first considers cooled semiconductor photon detectors and their limitations and then traces the historical development of un‐cooled IR sensing technologies and their commercialisation. It then discusses certain present‐day developments and research trends.

Findings

This paper shows that military‐funded research by the USA in the 1980s led to families of un‐cooled IR sensors, pyroelectric detectors and microbolometers, that have since been widely commercialised. Research continues in the search for a technology that can yield un‐cooled sensors offering the sensitivity of cooled devices, such as Golay cells, microcantilever arrays and biomimetics.

Originality/value

This paper traces the technological evolution of un‐cooled thermal imaging sensors and identifies and considers recent research.
Diamond sensors: the dawn of a new era?
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the background to the development of diamond‐based sensors and to illustrate recent progress in this field.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first considers the properties of diamond and some early attempts to fabricate sensors for monitoring UV and radiation from this material. It subsequently discusses recent progress through reference to companies which are now commercialising the technology.

Findings

This paper illustrates that early attempts to fabricate diamond‐based sensors were largely unsuccessful but the recent development of improved fabrication processes has yielded materials which are now allowing a range of sensing applications to be realised.

Originality/value

The paper describes the early attempts to commercialise diamond‐based sensors and detectors and shows that improved materials are now making this possible.
High resolution thermal imaging inside integrated circuits
Authors: Tessier G. , Bardoux M. , Filloy C. , Boué C. , Fournier D.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

Heating is a major cause of failure in integrated circuits. The authors have designed thermoreflectance‐based systems operating at various wavelengths in order to obtain temperature images. This paper aims to explore the possibilities of each wavelength range and detail the charge coupled device (CCD)‐based thermal imaging tools dedicated to the high‐resolution inspection of integrated circuits.

Design/methodology/approach

Thermoreflectance is a non‐contact optical method using the local reflectivity variations induced by heating to infer temperature mappings, and can be conducted at virtually any wavelength, giving access to different types of information. In the visible, the technique is now well established. It can probe temperatures through several micrometers of transparent encapsulation layers, with sub‐μm spatial resolution and 100 mK thermal resolution.

Findings

In the ultraviolet range, dielectric encapsulation layers are opaque and thermoreflectance gives access to the surface temperature. In the near infrared, thermoreflectance is an interesting solution to examine chips turned upside down, since these wavelengths can penetrate through silicon substrates and give access to the temperature of the active layers themselves.

Research limitations/implications

The authors show that the illumination wavelength of thermoreflectance should be chosen with care depending on the region of the integrated circuit (surface, above, or below the substrate) to be investigated.

Practical implications

This set of versatile and sensitive tools makes thermoreflectance an interesting tool for the semiconductor industry, either during prototyping or as a characterization tool after fabrication.

Originality/value

The CCD‐based thermoreflectance approach adopted here allows fast, non‐contact, high‐resolution thermal imaging of integrated circuits.
Thermography techniques for integrated circuits and semiconductor devices
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Yang Bozhi
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The goal of this review paper is to provide information on several commonly used thermography techniques in semiconductor and micro‐device industry and research today.

Design/methodology/approach

The temperature imaging or mapping techniques include thin coating methods such as liquid crystal thermography and fluorescence microthermography, contact mechanical methods such as scanning thermal microscopy, and optical techniques such as infrared microscopy and thermoreflectance. Their principles, characteristics and applications are discussed.

Findings

Thermal issues play an important part in optimizing the performance and reliability of high‐frequency and high‐packing density electronic circuits. To improve the performance and reliability of microelectronic devices and also to validate thermal models, accurate knowledge of local temperatures and thermal properties is required.

Originality/value

The paper provides readers, especially technical engineers in industry, a general knowledge of several commonly used thermography techniques in the semiconductor and micro‐device industries.
An on‐vehicle loading measurement system with capacitance and acceleration transducers
Authors: Yang Sanxu , Yin Baozhong , Yang Wuqiang
Published: September 2007

Purpose

In some developing countries, vehicles are often over‐loaded, which causes road accidents and damage to road surfaces. Currently, large measuring facilities are used to measure the vehicle‐loading on highways. A major limitation is that they can measure vehicle‐loading at fixed locations only. This paper seeks to present an on‐vehicle loading measurement system with capacitance and acceleration transducers.

Design/methodology/approach

A description and analysis of the system are presented.

Findings

The capacitance transducers sense the variation in distance between electrodes, using the on‐vehicle leaf springs as weighing elastomers. The acceleration transducers deal with the influence of acceleration to vehicle‐loading measurement. The major advantage of this system over the existing systems is that both static and dynamic loading can be measured.

Practical implications

This system is simple and easy to install.

Originality/value

The paper shows that with this system both a driver and an inspector can check vehicle‐loading at any time and any location through radio communication, thus identifying over‐loaded vehicles on highways.
The ring fluxgate: a very modern 80‐year old
Authors: Shelton Chris
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to explain the operating principles of fluxgate magnetometers.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is to describe the uses of ring fluxgate magnetometers and their operating principles.

Findings

The operating principles of fluxgate magnetometers are poorly understood and their applications potential seriously undervalued. An increasing number of everyday applications relying on sensing and fluxgates, in conjunction with modern analogue and micro‐controller electronics, represent unique value in implementing a variety of low‐cost, precise and absolute sensing elements. As magnetometers they are small, robust, reliable, low‐cost and can resolve flux densities to nano Teslas. This can be exploited to make a variety of sensors which are precise, inherently non‐contact and, for rotary sensing, have full 360° operation.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates how fluxgate magnetometers can form the basis for a variety of robust, reliable, non‐contact industrial sensors.
Numerical simulation of temperature history during the picture tube panel‐forming process
Authors: Zhou Huamin , Cui Shubiao , Li Dequn
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an integrated cooling simulation for the temperature history of the panel during the forming process.

Design/methodology/approach

A local one‐dimensional transient analysis in the thickness direction is adopted for the panel part, which employs finite‐difference method. And a three‐dimensional, boundary element method is used for the numerical implementation of the heat transfer analysis in the mold region, which is considered as three‐dimensional conduction. The Renormalization‐Group turbulence model is applied for the jet impinging cooling. The part and mold analyses are coupled so as to match the temperature and heat flux on the glass‐mold interface.

Findings

The paper provides mathematical model and numerical strategy adapted to the problem, with experimental verification that shows a good agreement.

Practical implications

Cooling design in the forming operation of picture tube panel is of great importance because it significantly affects the part quality associated with residual stresses and productivity. The developed simulation package is a tool in the optimization of processing parameters and in‐mold cooling system structure design.

Originality/value

This paper presents a realistic, integrated, and coupled numerical model for analyzing the panel cooling process that retains important aspects of the problem. The paper could be very valuable to the researchers in this field as a benchmark for their analyses.
An efficient graph theoretical method for plate bending finite element analysis via force method
Authors: Kaveh A. , Koohestani K.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present an efficient algorithm for the formation of null basis for finite element model discretized as rectangular bending elements. The bases obtained by this algorithm correspond to highly sparse and narrowly banded flexibility matrices and such bases can be considered as an efficient tool for optimal analysis of structures.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present method, two graphs are associated with finite element mesh consisting of an “interface graph” and an “associate digraph”. The underlying subgraphs of the self‐equilibrating systems (SESs) (null vectors) are obtained by graph theoretical approaches forming a null basis. Application of unit loads (moments) at the end of the generator of each subgraph results in the corresponding null vector.

Findings

In the present hybrid method, graph theory is used for the formation of null vectors as far as it is possible and then algebraic method is utilized to find the complementary part of the null basis.

Originality/value

This hybrid approach makes the use of pure force method in the finite element analysis feasible. Here, a simplified version of the algorithm is also presented where the SESs for weighted graphs are obtained using an analytical approach. Thus, the formation of null bases is achieved using the least amount of algebraic operations, resulting in substantial saving in computational time and storage.
Application hybrid grey dynamic model to forecasting compensatory control
Authors: Li Guo‐Dong , Yamaguchi Daisuke , Nagai Masatake
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to increase the manufacturing accuracy and quality of product by improving the prediction accuracy of forecasting compensatory control (FCC).

Design/methodology/approach

The dynamic analysis model, which combines grey dynamic model with time series autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model is proposed. In addition, the Markov chain from stochastic process theory is applied to improve the prediction accuracy.

Findings

The proposed model is more accurate than ARIMA model and grey dynamic model.

Originality/value

The paper provides a viewpoint on FCC by using the combined methodology, which takes advantage of high predictable power of grey dynamic model and at the same time takes advantage of the prediction powers of ARIMA model and Markov chain.
An improved multifractal method for pavement cracks extraction
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Zhi‐feng , Huang Yu‐jun , Zhao Ying‐lu , Xiao Liang , He An‐zhi
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an improved multifractal method to extract the pavement cracks in the complicated background. Furthermore, the pavement surface images with or without crack can also be distinguished by this method.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework of analyzing the image singularity is based on the sub‐pixel multifractal measure (SPMM). Performing the SPMM can give the sub‐pixel local distribution of the image gradient and a more precise singularity exponent distribution in the image. Meantime, using the singularity exponents and the most singular manifold (MSM), the image can be decomposed into a series of sets with different statistical and physical properties automatically and easily. One can extract the cracks according to the MSM.

Findings

The example shows that the physical and geometrical properties of the pavement images can be obtained by analyzing the distribution of singularity exponents and the greatest singularity exponent. The simulation results show that the SPMM has higher quality factor in the image edge detection. And the MSM detected this way reflects the most important information of the image.

Originality/value

Performing the SPMM can give a more precise singularity exponent distribution in the image.
Optimum cut‐off grade policy for open pit mining operations through net present value algorithm considering metal price and cost escalation
Authors: Asad M.W.A.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper sets out to propose a new cut‐off optimization algorithm for effective decision making at the open pit mine planning stage.

Design/methodology/approach

The determination of optimum cut‐off grade to maximize the net present value of an open pit mining operation is influenced by the economic parameters including metal price and operating costs, the capacities of mine, mill, and refining stages, and grade distribution of the mineral deposit. The market plays a vital role in changing the economic parameters; therefore, they may escalate during mine life. The effect of these changes could be enormous on optimum cut‐off grade policy. The main motive is to introduce economic parameters escalation into the established theory of optimum cut‐off grades and study the impact of these changes on overall economics of the operation. Therefore, a cut‐off grade optimization algorithm is developed, which considers dynamic metal price and cost escalation during mine life.

Findings

A copper deposit case study shows that, keeping the metal price escalation at a minimum, the impact of mining and milling costs escalation is relatively higher than refining and administrative costs. Hence, a high‐escalation rate in mining and milling costs may change an economic operation into an uneconomic scenario.

Research limitations/implications

Management of stockpiles as a policy may be introduced in the algorithm for improvement in economy through maximum utilization of mineral resources.

Originality/value

The algorithm due to its flexibility allows analysis of various options in the least possible time, which makes it valuable to mine planners in decision making for major mining investments.
Strategic sourcing in the Hong Kong toy industry
Authors: Ching‐Tung Chan Tony , Chin Kwai‐Sang , Lam Ping‐Kit
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to identify the core values and key success factors in strategic sourcing; and to examine the importance of strategic sourcing and the key success factors in the Hong Kong toy industry. In addition, the relationship between the implementation of the key factors and sourcing performance in the Hong Kong toy industry are investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical research is based on a questionnaire survey that collected data from 205 Hong Kong toy companies. The survey investigated the degree of importance of key success strategic sourcing factors and the extent of implementation of the key factors in the companies. Furthermore, the sourcing performance of the companies was measured to investigate its relationship with the implementation of the key factors.

Findings

The research identifies five core values and 14 key success factors in strategic sourcing through literature reviews. The survey findings indicate that the identified key success factors are important and positively related to the sourcing performance. Moreover, the results show that the implementation of strategic sourcing in the Hong Kong toy industry is lagging behind the degree of importance of strategic sourcing.

Research limitations/implications

Since there is a gap between the implementation and importance of strategic sourcing, there is room for the Hong Kong toy industry to improve sourcing performance by addressing the 14 key success factors.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the key success strategic sourcing factors to improve sourcing performance in the Hong Kong toy industry.
Process capability in services
Authors: Puga‐Leal Rogério , Lopes Pereira Zulema
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop an index for assessing service capability when the customer considers satisfactory a certain range of service performance, the so‐called zone of tolerance.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature on service research and statistical process control (SPC) was used to develop a conceptual approach that is later worked out for implementation. Some of the quality function deployment principles are used in the approach to articulate customer perceptions and expectations with parameters of service performance.

Findings

It is demonstrated that traditional capability indices do not cope properly with service performance characterized by a zone of tolerance and that the new capability index, proposed by the authors, is more than adequate to deal with the specific features of services.

Research limitations/implications

It was assumed that performance levels within the zone of tolerance are not perceived as different by customers and that service performance could be considered as normally distributed. Further research is clearly needed, not only to test the assumptions in different service environments, but also to assess the robustness of the proposed index when the assumptions are violated.

Practical implications

Improvement efforts of the organizations can be better allocated if the relation between customer expectations and service performance is understood and characterized.

Originality/value

A new approach to understand the relationship between customer expectations and perceptions and service performance is launched. The approach led to the development of a service capability index and might constitute a contribution to all researchers and practitioners that intend to spread SPC principles within the service sector.
Using QFD for e‐business planning and analysis in a micro‐sized enterprise
Authors: Clegg Ben , Tan Boon
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how QFD can be used as part of a structured planning and analysis framework for micro‐sized enterprises to build‐up their e‐business capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study has been produced using a new framework which integrates the balanced scorecard, value chain and quality function deployment techniques into an integrated framework known as the E‐Business Planning and Analysis Framework (E‐PAF). It has been produced using an action research approach.

Findings

A new framework with a supporting case study is provided. This case study has demonstrated that the framework can be applied successfully to micro‐sized enterprises (those with less than ten employees) to successfully plan new strategic and technical developments. This will enhance the online service that the company is able to provide.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a single case study. The technical recommendations are currently being implemented.

Originality/value

Such analytical techniques are most commonly associated with large organisations, and are not specifically associated with e‐business planning. This paper provides a new framework that will be of general applicability to other similarly sized enterprises that are looking to improve e‐business capabilities.
Relationship quality antecedents: the Malaysian retail banking perspective
Authors: Oly Ndubisi Nelson
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of relationship marketing (RM) underpinnings namely, trust, commitment, communication and conflict handling on the quality of firm‐customer relationship as well as the levels of contribution of these underpinnings.

Design/methodology/approach

The model of relationship quality based on literature was developed and tested empirically among customers of retail banks in Malaysia. A structured questionnaire was used in the study. Sample selection was based on a systematic random sampling technique. Factor and multivariate analyses techniques were used to process the data.

Findings

The findings of the study support most of the hypothesized relationships. There is a significant positive relationship between trust, commitment and conflict handling on relationship quality. The independent variables contribute differentially to relationship quality.

Research limitations/implications

The relationship marketing underpinnings can predict relationship quality well. Banks can build and maintain quality customer relationship through trust, commitment and conflict resolution. The outcome of the study can help banks in developing effective strategies for enhancing the quality of firm‐customer relationships and in designing and delivering banking service strategies, tactics, and training programmes that would enable bank employees and managers to function effectively as relationship builders, nurturers, managers, and custodians in service settings.

Originality/value

It has been suggested that in order to keep customers loyal, firms should constantly improve overall relationship quality. However, little is understood about the key antecedents of relationship quality and the actual contributions of each of these antecedents from a relationship marketing viewpoint. By comparing the levels of contributions of the RM underpinnings, banks are now able to decide on the level of attention and effort to be assigned to each, based on their importance.
A new loss function‐based method for evaluating manufacturing and environmental risks
Authors: Pan Jeh‐Nan
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to provide a new loss function‐based risk assessment method so the likelihood and consequence resulting from the failure of a manufacturing or environmental system can be evaluated simultaneously.

Design/methodology/approach

Instead of using risk matrices of the occurrence and consequence separately for evaluating manufacturing and environmental risks, an integrated approach by exploring the relationship between process capability indices: Cp, Cpk and Cpm, and three different loss functions: Taguchi's loss function; Inverted normal loss function (INLF); and Revised inverted normal loss function (RINLF) is proposed.

Findings

The new method of quantitative risk assessment linking the likelihood and expected loss of failure is illustrated by two numeric examples. The results suggest that the revised inverted normal loss function (RINLF) be used in assessing manufacturing and environmental risks.

Practical implications

It gives decision‐makers a concrete tool to assess the likelihood and consequence of their processes. Linking the process capability indices and loss functions is particularly promising, as this provides a useful risk assessment tool for practitioners who want to reduce hazardous waste and manufacturing losses from their facilities.

Originality/value

The manufacturing and environmental risks are determined by paring the process capability indices and loss function. From the loss function‐based estimation, one can quantify the consequence of a manufacturing loss and get the severity rating in an objective way.