bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motivation as conceptualised in traditional and Islamic management
Authors: Mohammad Ather Syed , Aktaruzzaman Khan Mohammad , Hoque Nazamul
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to indicate total motivation under Islamic management.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was based on both primary and secondary materials. The primary data were gathered following a sample survey through direct personal interview by the researchers; the secondary data were obtained through library research. Statistical tools and techniques like weighted average, SD, variances and coefficient of variation were used applying statistical software Statistical Package for Social Science (version 10.0).

Findings

The theories and models of motivation under traditional management are a reflection of partial rather than total scenarios of human motivation especially for Muslim managers, executives, staff and workers. On the other hand, motivation under Islamic management is conceptualised by the authors as “total motivation” comprising of Islamically approved (Halal) materialistic gains, expectations and achievement in this world as well as the gains, expectations and achievement in the world hereafter.

Originality/value

The paper opens a new avenue of motivation concept. It is considered superior to partial motivation. Further, the total motivation model, materialistic and spiritual indices are also new things.
The possibility of application of salam in Malaysian Islamic banking system
Authors: Muneeza Aishath , Nurul Atiqah Nik Yusuf Nik , Hassan Rusni
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This research aims to explore the theoretical nature of salam contract in depth, the extent of its use in the banking arena of Malaysia and to test the theoretical feasibility of its future application by the Islamic banks in Malaysia by suggesting an Islamic banking product structure based on salam contract.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a legal exploratory study primarily focused on library research.

Findings

Salam contract is more susceptible to risks than the rest of the Islamic commercial contracts used by the Islamic banks in Malaysia and none of the Islamic banks in the country utilize this type of contract as a mode of financing. However, the research indicates that a feasible banking product based on salam contract could be formulated to help poor farmers in the country. To prove this a new model product based on salam contract to help farmers is created by the authors and the pros and cons of the product with the risk mitigating ways are explored. It is found that theoretically, this product is workable.

Originality/value

This research will complement the knowledge based on practical applicability of salam and is targeted to the Islamic financial Institutions in Malaysia, who are the prospective beneficiaries.
Hedge your budget risk through service increases
Authors: Cottrell Terry
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a case at the University of St Francis (USF), where common fears and, in some cases, harsh realities of library budget reductions can be strategically allayed or altogether avoided through creativity, changes in motivation and implementation of redesigns in organizational work flows and tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

The USF Library shifted focus away from a reactionary stance against pending budget cuts toward a proactive strategy in order to circumvent anticipated reductions in funding for library operations and staff.

Findings

Changes in attitudinal and service posturing created an environment that allowed the USF to show itself as a more essential function of its university as a whole. The changes suggested in this paper add more workload to USF existing library functions, but also add more interested stakeholders.

Originality/value

This paper offers insight and direction to practitioners looking to investigate the feasibility of selectively increasing workload in order to increase overall value to their institutions, resulting in budget security during harsh economic times.
Maximizing an economic recession through strategic organizational repositioning
Authors: Murray Adam
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the possibilities for strategically and politically repositioning a library, despite economic hardships, for stronger relations with administration, local government, and user communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a case study of Murray State University Libraries' efforts to seize the current recession to conduct capital construction planning, donor development, and political positioning for a new library facility. Additionally, the case study details some of the activities undertaken during the recession to implement a pay‐per‐view journal article process and value‐added reference services.

Findings

This case study finds that strategically repositioning a library with administration, local government, or the user community can be undertaken on either larger or smaller scales, depending on the particular circumstances in which a library operates.

Originality/value

While the literature is rife with papers urging libraries and librarians to undertake strategic and political repositioning efforts during economic recessions, this paper provides a holistic case study of a library successfully doing just that.
Data‐driven budget reductions: a case study
Authors: Novak Denise D. , Paulos Afeworki , St. Clair Gloriana
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how a medium‐sized university library implemented activity‐based costing (ABC) and other broad‐based decision‐making strategies to make the necessary budgetary cuts and refocus library services accordingly.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses ABC to quantify the cost‐drive of services in the library.

Findings

Given the current budgetary cuts academic libraries are facing, a rational, data‐driven, ABC approach can lead to constructive organizational decision making and outcomes.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the value of activity‐based costing in assessing services and addressing issues on how libraries can do more with less.
Directing the personnel search part II: notes on contacting applicants
Authors: Fitsimmons Gary
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to expound on what makes for solid contacts with applicants.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses modes of communication, giving advantages and disadvantages for each, and then focuses on what can and should be accomplished through good communication during the search process.

Findings

The paper finds that good communication practices with all applicants will both earn their respect and keep the process on track toward hiring the best fit for the position.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is in learning how to use communication as a tool in the search process.
The interview process and beyond
Authors: Walker Stephanie
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This column is designed to address library personnel issues. This particular installment seeks to discuss preparation for interviews, the interview process, and appropriate follow‐up actions after an interview.

Design/methodology/approach

The column is based on the author's substantial experience dealing with personnel matters in academic, public, and special libraries, including hiring for all types of positions. It is personal opinion, based on lengthy experience.

Findings

The column is intended to help people to deal with all types of personnel issues overall; this specific column is intended to assist people in the process of searching for and interviewing for a professional position.

Originality/value

The column is intended to assist people with personnel issues in general, and specifically, in this instance, with finding and securing a professional position.
Internal and external landscapes: myths and communicating financial focus
Authors: Cottrell Terry
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expose the multiplicity of landscapes involved with making and communicating strategic financial decisions for libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a general review.

Findings

Library leaders must always focus on at least two distinct landscapes by which all financial matters may be approached and communicated.

Originality/value

This paper works to bring readers toward the assumption that all financial matters require a minimal two‐pronged approach toward landscapes that are commonly presented to be singular in nature.
Best practices from a library cat
Authors: Lund James R.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to encourage substantive personal interaction with public library patrons.

Design/methodology/approach

The argument for implementing a service model based on personal interaction is presented.

Findings

By using the story of a library cat, library staff can replicate a similar emotional bond and loyalty with its patrons.

Originality/value

Affectionate animals can teach us a lot about ourselves and help to improve service to library patrons.
Mentoring in tough financial times
Authors: Crumpton Michael A.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the importance of great mentoring to those with financial responsibilities during tough economic times.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper pulls from the field literature two sets of attributes and considerations of skills needed in order to be a great mentor.

Findings

It is important that persons with financial responsibilities are not overlooked in the mentoring process in order to direct their energies into positive actions.

Research limitations/implications

The methods and skills discussed in this paper will need to be customized for individual emotional reactions to changing economic situations.

Practical implications

This paper provides an explanation of the qualities needed by mentors to create a positive result.

Social implications

This paper recognizes the importance of building social skills in order to develop good relationships.

Originality/value

Readers are encouraged to expand on these concepts in order to become better mentors.
Delegation at the macro level: library IT, spheres of influence, and the promise of cloudware
Authors: Harris Colleen S.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the implications of budget cuts on libraries' ability to continue to maintain labor‐intensive IT maintenance on multiple systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a discussion of the likely impact of the increasing popularity of cloud‐based and hosted information technology solutions.

Findings

Library practice, and emerging technology products targeted at library information systems, point to the fact that libraries with limited IT staff may continue to reduce their involvement in enterprise‐level IT projects and focus more on service provision and local enhancements.

Research limitations/implications

The change in IT environments towards increasingly hosted solutions creates implications for library IT departments in terms of focus and needed skill‐sets.

Practical implications

This paper brings the issue of library IT constraints to the forefront in an effort to engage librarians in a discussion about where IT influence should be directed, and awareness of some of the practical concerns about moving to hosted and cloudware solutions.

Social implications

The culture of library practice could be affected by this issue, and may have wider ramifications in terms of future library IT development and distributions of effort.

Originality/value

The paper is timely, addressing a current question and debate within the field. It proposes that librarians should explore the questions inherent in altering IT offerings in light of new vendor capabilities.
Paperless society? What a load of scrap
Authors: McMullen Anthony
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into issues encountered in maintaining library technologies on a limited budget and with limited personnel.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses real‐world experiences and data to report on the costs associated with the provision of high‐volume print capabilities in an active academic computing area in a large university library.

Findings

While advances in technology have changed higher education greatly, students and instructors alike still depend heavily on the printed page. Moreover, easy access to high‐volume printers seems to encourage indiscriminate printing and wasteful behavior.

Originality/value

This paper offers insights and real world experiences encountered in an active computing facility. It presents data on printing and provides some suggestions for reining‐in waste associated with unnecessary printing.
Budget allocation formulas: magic or illusion?
Authors: Cross Roger L.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Budget allocation formulas claim objectivity, and hence fairness. But factors composing the formula are limited to supply, demand, and cost. Attempts to correct for this imbalance of empirical data like usage have led to the use of weighted values in the formulas. This paper seeks to argue that assigning “weight” in a formula introduces value judgments and subjectivity, leaving only the misplaced illusion of objectivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper surveys the published literature on the use of monograph budget allocation formulas and provides analysis to highlight the underlying problems of allocation formulas.

Findings

Over the past several decades numerous permutations of the monograph allocation formula have been proposed and published. But there is no magic in formulas once value judgments are introduced. Instead, one is only left with the appearance of objectivity.

Originality/value

This paper is a review of the philosophical and economic underpinnings in the library literature on allocation formulas and subsequent budget distribution. It seeks to demonstrate the subjective nature of these formulas, once they are separated from empirical data. The paper seeks to demonstrate the dangerous illusion of objectivity that formulas can create when implemented.
Cost‐benefit analysis: examples
Authors: Linn Mott
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to point outs that, when managing strategically, a library administrator might want to use cost‐benefit analysis to prudently spend money and, consequently, would need to understand this methodology.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the various types of cost‐benefit analysis and provides examples of their use.

Findings

It is helpful for library managers to have a proper knowledge of cost‐benefit analysis.

Practical implications

This provides one methodology that librarians should consider when contemplating what purchases to make.

Originality/value

This article will help librarians better manage their libraries by making them aware of cost‐benefit analysis.
Outsourcing as a change management tool in libraries and documentation centers
Authors: Lloret Romero Nuria
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Outsourcing is a tool that has been used in companies for decades. However, it has taken much longer for this tool to be implemented in libraries and documentation centers, especially since they are eminently public entities at an international level. The use of such services has increased in recent years and has been especially heightened by the economic crisis in all areas of the aforementioned centers. However, it is important to understand the basis of this type of tool in order to look beyond the fiscal and economic benefits and attempt to see the possibilities provided by the use of these types of services for improving the dynamics of organizations and even creating new professional profiles within the organization itself This study aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The outsourcing of services need not always lead to a loss of know‐how, and when working from the heart of the organization it is a tool that can even be used to support a culture of change and the revitalization of organizations less likely to change.

Findings

The technological, economic and sociological challenges of the information society are demanding the development of new ways to manage human resources in organizations, ways that allow for a greater degree of flexibility leading to innovation and the strengthening of competitiveness. Consequently, there is a need to adapt to the demands of society with services that in many cases are not performed by the entity itself due to a lack of specialized resources within the organization.

Originality/value

Many organizations and especially public institutions do not renew their staff regularly, and thus it is possible to encounter organizations where the average age of the employees has increased as the entity has got older. Although such entities are acknowledged for their prestige and experience, there is a clear lack of new ways of thinking which would enable the organization to advance, above all in technological areas where innovation and change are extremely transient. Therefore, a mixed staff is needed, where the knowledge of the organization and processes held by employees who have been with the company since its foundation is combined with the new knowledge and ways of understanding processes held by new recruits. This leads directly to a change in the values of the organization, since the incorporation of new ideas in process management and the incorporation of technologies, allowing for a more cooperative environment, can end up creating an organizational culture with renewed values, always safeguarding the initial core values of the organization and including the new values generated from the incorporation of new ways of working.
Implementation of a multi‐brand strategy in action sports
Authors: Giannoulakis Chrysostomos , Apostolopoulou Artemisia
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The present study aims to explore the efforts of a core action sports company (Board Sports Company (BSC)) to employ a multi‐brand strategy and to focus on the identity and reach of the seven distinct brands operated under the parent company. The study seeks to identify benefits and limitations of the multi‐brand strategy, as seen by company employees.

Design/methodology/approach

In a single‐case design study approach, a global, private action sports company, recognized as a leader in authentic action sports footwear and apparel, was selected for study. Data were collected via in‐depth interviews with key company employees and an extensive review of secondary sources.

Findings

The adoption of a multi‐brand strategy with the operation of seven distinct brands has allowed BSC to expand to mainstream audiences, while strengthening its core target markets. Through aggressive consumer segmentation practices and the strategic utilization of a variety of distribution outlets, BSC remains competitive in a highly antagonistic business environment.

Practical implications

Possibly the greatest benefit of a multi‐brand strategy is a company's ability to diversify, while minimizing the risk of transferring potentially harmful associations among its brands. Thus, BSC has expanded its reach into the mainstream through new sports, product lines, distribution channels, and target audiences. Simultaneously, the organization has guarded the perception of authenticity of its core brands.

Originality/value

The study extends the understanding of the management of sport brands by moving beyond collegiate and professional sport organizations to focus on an athletic wear and equipment brand. It also offers insight to sport organizations that might consider expansion via the adoption of a multi‐brand strategy.
Regularities in the consumption of a subscription service
Authors: Lee Richard , Rungie Cam , Wright Malcolm
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purchase distribution of consumer packaged goods has been extensively modelled by the negative binomial distribution (NBD). As the characteristics of packaged goods differ from those of subscription services, the latter may be a boundary condition for NBD. In this study, the authors aim to test whether NBD extends to a subscription service. Also, NBD assumes non‐heterogeneous purchase behaviour. The authors determine whether augmenting the model with a covariate (customer tenure) to account for consumer heterogeneity will produce a better fitting model.

Design/methodology/approach

Phase 1 fitted a base NBD model using a random set (n=1,546) of mobile‐telecommunication consumption (monthly billed amount). Phase 2 extended the base model by incorporating customer tenure as a covariate, and re‐fitting the model.

Findings

NBD does apply to subscription markets. Also, accounting for heterogeneity in customer tenure produces a better model fit, and shows that with increasing tenure individual consumption declines but total consumption increases due to fewer light buyers.

Research limitations/implications

The NBD fit suggests that mobile‐telecommunication consumption is habitual, and casts doubt on the effectiveness of marketing programs such as loyalty programs to spur the consumption. The fit also establishes that NBD can serve as a benchmark against which the effects of marketing actions can be evaluated. A potential limitation is the continuous, rather than discrete, nature of the service consumption data.

Originality/value

By extending NBD's boundary condition, this study further attests to the model's robustness in modelling purchase behaviour. It illustrates the technique of augmenting the model with marketing covariates to improve model fits.
Customer‐based brand equity, equity drivers, and customer loyalty in the supermarket industry
Authors: Allaway Arthur W. , Huddleston Patricia , Whipple Judith , Ellinger Alexander E.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure consumer‐based brand equity in the supermarket industry and to identify the strategy drivers associated with levels of brand equity for consumers' typically patronized supermarkets.

Design/methodology/approach

A nine state survey of consumers was conducted to provide brand equity ratings of 22 national, regional, and specialty supermarket brands.

Findings

Factor analysis yields two brand equity outcome dimensions and eight brand equity drivers. A large proportion of consumers clearly have strong feelings about the supermarkets they patronize, and that effort expended in keeping customers, service level, and product quality and assortment appear to be basic requirements for achieving high levels of consumer‐based brand equity. The top supermarket brands typically score highly on at least one other key driver of equity. Supermarket brands that use formal loyalty programs to drive patronage in general have lower levels of customer‐based brand equity.

Research limitations/implications

Selection of designated supermarkets was limited by spatial distribution in the geographic area. The sample is more affluent and educated than the general US population.

Practical implications

As retailers search for ways to compete more effectively for consumer dollars and loyalty, they need to explore in more detail the customer‐based brand equity and the drivers of customer equity associated with their retail brands.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to link consumer‐based brand equity and the supermarket branding efforts that drive it for specific retail brands. In an industry with numerous choices in nearly all market areas and low switching costs, successful branding can translate into emotional commitment, shopping loyalty, and even person‐to‐person promotion of the brand to others.
Customers' comparative loyalty to retail and manufacturer brands
Authors: Allen Broyles S. , Ross Robert H. , Davis Donna , Leingpibul Thaweephan
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Owing to the increasing market presence and financial success of retail brands, this study seeks to examine the comparative influence of manufacturer brands and retail brands on customers' purchase behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey was administered to 1,120 samples (of which 200 were returned), with data analyzed using structural equation modeling to test the study's hypotheses.

Findings

The study revealed that customers' loyalty to retail brand(s) has greater influence on their purchase behavior than manufacturer brand(s). It also revealed that attitude toward store brands directly influences one's propensity to switch to retail brands, and mediates relationships between loyalty to manufacturer/retail brands and one's propensity to switch to retail brand(s).

Research limitations/implications

Only one type of retailer was employed in the study. The samples are individuals that have either purchased an item(s) from the retailer, or have at least visited one of their retail sites. The samples had relatively high disposable incomes.

Practicable implications

The study found that retailers may need dissimilar marketing strategies for customers loyal to manufacturer brands and customers loyal to retail brands.

Originality/value

The study provides new and empirical insight into the ongoing debate of the comparative importance of manufacturer and retail brands.
Can brand identity predict brand extensions' success or failure?
Authors: Viot Catherine
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Brand extension strategies have become widespread since the early 1980s. However, a large proportion of brand extensions still fail, suggesting the need for methodologies that produce better predictions of success or failure of new products launched with a well‐known brand name. Although the symbolic fit between established brand names and brand extensions is considered as one of the most important determinants of brand extension success or failure, managers need more accurate tools to determine, from a symbolic point‐of‐view, which brand extensions are consistent with their brand. This paper proposes to use Kapferer's brand identity prism to define more acceptable brand extensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies were conducted. A first study aimed at developing a brand identity inventory (BII). In a second study, the BII's ability to predict brand extensions' success or failure was tested.

Findings

The second order structure of Kapferer's brand identity prism is confirmed. The paper then demonstrates that brand identity is useful to better predict acceptance of brand extensions.

Research limitations/implications

In prior research, perceived fit was estimated by mono‐item measures or by few brand associations. Brand identity provides a more accurate estimation of the fit that can rely on attributes related to brand personality and brand values – the personal dimension of brand identity – or associations related to relationships and users' image – the social dimension of brand identity.

Originality/value

The findings can help managers to determine more consistent brand extensions when brands are already stretched.
Self‐monitoring, dining companions and the usage of alternative currencies
Authors: “Sunny” Hu Hsin‐Hui , Parsa H.G.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to understand the effects of self‐monitoring, dining companions and industry segments on the usage of alternate currencies while dining out.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design using frequent consumers of restaurant services is being used with a scenario approach with a sample size of 471.

Findings

Results indicate that self‐monitoring has significant impact on consumers' choice for alternate currencies. In addition, the type of dining companion (boss vs friend vs alone) has significant affect on usage of alternate currencies. Industry segments were not found be a significant factor in making usage of alternate currencies. For high self‐monitoring individuals, the preferences for currency usages are more likely influenced by the image delivered by the currency than for low self‐monitors. Consumers who dine with a friend or alone are more likely to prefer to pay with frequent usage points‐only (as opposed to dollars‐only) than consumers who dine with the boss. This result indicates that the dining companion is an important determinant in preferring the alternative currency, frequent usage points. Since frequent usage points are a signal of price discount, consumers do not want to make an impression of “being cheap” on the higher‐status dining companion (e.g. boss) by using frequent usage points for their dining experiences. On the other hand, if consumers dine with a friend or alone, they are more likely to reap the financial rewards of paying with frequent usage points without regard to the impression it creates.

Research limitations/implications

These findings have significant implications for the restaurants marketers and managers. Implementation of frequent diners program may be affected significantly by self‐monitoring characteristics and nature of dining companions.

Originality/value

This study extends the understanding of individual differences associated with currency preference by examining the effects of self‐monitoring and impression management on consumer preferences for currency usage. Identifying the characteristics of consumers using the different currency options is critical for the foodservice industry.
Pricing for a credence good: an exploratory analysis
Authors: Nagler Matthew G. , Kronenberg Fredi , Kennelly Edward J. , Jiang Bei
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of observable product characteristics and label wording in consumers' valuations for credence goods, products for which key characteristics may not be fully evaluated even after purchase. The objective is to draw conclusions with relevance to pricing policy.

Design/methodology/approach

Hedonic price equations are estimated for a dietary supplement called black cohosh, taken by women for relief from menopausal symptoms.

Findings

Consumers respond in expected ways to label words that directly indicate product characteristics: for example, paying more for a product labeled as suitable for vegetarians. But surprising results occur for some nonspecific label words (e.g. “guaranteed” is associated with lower prices), suggesting that consumers view these words as indirect signals with respect to unobservable qualities. Additionally, consumers pay more for packages containing more units (e.g. tablets) even when the time supply of product is held constant; this outcome is consistent with the notion that sheer quantity reassures consumers about value and could indicate a reaction to uncertainty in the overall value proposition.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies on list prices in place of transacted prices, so consumers' true valuations may not be reflected with complete accuracy. The study should be repeated in the future using scanner data on actual product transactions.

Practical implications

The indirect signals transmitted by label words and other observable attributes play a key role in consumers' valuations for credence goods, and so are highly relevant to pricing strategy.

Originality/value

Previous studies have considered willingness‐to‐pay for label‐indicated credence qualities, but have not looked at the role of indirect signals/indicators.
The indirect effects of PMS design on Malaysian service firms' characteristics and performance
Authors: Mohd Amir Amizawati
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to gain deeper understanding of whether a fit between the organizational characteristics and PMS design may enhance organizational performance. This study presents evidence on PMS attributes and use as intervening variables on the relationships between service firms' characteristics and performance in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The issues were tested using a mixed method approach with the collection of survey questionnaires and a series of post‐survey interviews. Stronger emphasis was placed on a quantitative approach as the objective was to develop generalized PMS findings in the service sector.

Findings

Findings indicate that the attributes and use of PMS have significant indirect effects on the relationships between the differentiation strategy, environmental competitiveness and organizational performance for both professional and mass services. Additionally the interpretation of the interviews underlines the complementing roles of each of the design elements in building an effective PMS.

Originality/value

The evidence removes the traditional assumption that accounting formal control is only applicable to mass service firms. Instead, the findings show that PMS design of professional service firms is not much different from that of mass services.
Corporate governance and post‐bankruptcy reorganisation performance
Authors: Chitnomrath Thanida , Evans Robert , Christopher Theo
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This research seeks to investigate the role of key corporate governance mechanisms in determining a firm's post‐bankruptcy performance following reorganisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on agency theory and uses a unique sample of 111 filing companies whose reorganisation plans have been confirmed by the Thai Central Bankruptcy Court during the period 1999‐2002.

Findings

The results indicate that monitoring and incentive mechanisms are significant determinants of a firm's post‐bankruptcy performance. The key monitoring mechanism is ownership concentration, measured by shares held by the largest shareholder, whereas the critical incentive mechanisms are cash compensation and percentage of common shares held by the plan administrator. The results indicate that these mechanisms can mitigate agency problems in previously insolvent companies and increase post‐bankruptcy performance over a three year period.

Originality/value

The study is timely given that many organisations are facing rebuilding programs following the impact of the global financial crisis. Prior research in Thailand and elsewhere has not measured bankruptcy reorganisation outcomes in terms of the difference of actual financial performance to predicted performance and in relation to the governance factors of the reorganisation process. Neither has this aspect been considered within an agency theory framework. This provides a unique opportunity to consider these variables based on the theoretical framework of agency theory and to evaluate the importance of governance mechanisms in reorganisation proceedings.
Insights on the diversity of financial ratios communication
Authors: Aripin Norhani , Tower Greg , Taylor Grantley
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the extent of financial ratio communication from an agency theory perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical positivist approach is utilised to explore the predictors of disclosure within the 2007 annual reports of 300 Australian listed companies.

Findings

Overall, the extent of financial ratio disclosures is very low (5.3 per cent) with more extensive disclosures within the sub‐categories of share market measure, profitability and capital structure. A far lower liquidity and cash flow ratio information is reported. Larger firms with more dispersed share ownership provide more extensive financial ratio information than the others. Further, profit‐making firms and Big4 clients exhibit more extensive financial ratio disclosures. Resources firms present significantly lower incidents of financial ratio than the financials and services sector. Corporate governance and capital management initiatives do not have predictive properties.

Originality/value

Financial ratio disclosure, although important, is under‐researched. A comprehensive set of predictors are investigated. The findings highlight the need for Australian regulators to consider more explicit guidelines or mandatory requirements.
Sustainable development: what it means to CFOs of New Zealand
Authors: Dimitrov Dara K. , Davey Howard
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to evaluate and better understand the Chief Financial Officers' (CFOs) role in sustainability reporting of New Zealand's (NZ) publicly listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a questionnaire sent to the CFOs of 88 of New Zealand's largest listed companies; the CFOs were telephoned beforehand and introduced to the nature of the research and asked if they would participate. A total of 33 fully completed responses were returned.

Findings

CFOs expressed their agreement with the adoption of sustainable development as they believed there were benefits to be made for their firms; the survey identified reputation enhancement and good corporate governance as the two main benefits. However they were reluctant to have their firms' information scrutinised by stakeholders. They believed that stakeholders are largely unaware of the difficulties of adopting sustainable development practices, and furthermore, stakeholders have unrealistic expectations of what their firms could achieve by adopting sustainable development. CFOs did not believe that sustainable development would cut costs and improve their profits – rather they believed that sustainable development adoption was very inconvenient as it is costly. Thus the influence for firms to adopt sustainable development practices is driven largely by non‐financial factors rather than any economic gains. This corroborates earlier findings.

Research limitations/implications

The research utilises primary data collected in 2008. A useable response rate of 38 per cent was achieved. The research is restricted to New Zealand listed companies.

Practical implications

In gaining a deeper appreciation of where CFOs gain their understanding of sustainable development issues, and how they participate in the discourse around sustainable development, we are potentially better able to provide information to this key group of people.

Originality/value

Very little research has been undertaken into how CFOs gain their knowledge about sustainability reporting nor about their views on the subject. This research attempts to fill this gap and opens the way for similar work to be undertaken overseas.
Market‐facing strategic alliances in the fashion sector
Authors: Wigley Stephen M. , Provelengiou Aikaterini‐Konstantina
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate market‐facing fashion industry strategic alliances in the fashion industry by studying a specific case in context of the existing literature. It has three key objectives: to explore the motives causing strategic alliance formation in the fashion industry; to understand the processes involved in the creation and management of such an alliance, and to identify factors defining the success of the alliance.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study methodology was employed studying an instance of market‐facing strategic alliance in the fashion sector.

Findings

It was found that while issues generic within the literature may be discerned in instances of strategic alliance in the fashion industry, industry‐specific factors, especially competence in marketing, branding and retailing, impact on the motives for alliance, partner selection and alliance implementation and alliance.

Research limitations/implications

The usual limitations of any case study apply.

Practical implications

The paper provides an account of the motives for processes affecting and outcomes of strategic alliance in the fashion industry and promoting student, academic and practitioner understanding of the topic. The paper also provides a model for the management of such an alliance.

Originality/value

The paper offers insights into a contemporary phenomenon of interest to both practitioners and academics and provides detail on the motives and processes contingent to the successful management of strategic alliances within the fashion sector.
Youth identity ownership from a fashion marketing perspective
Authors: Diane Cassidy Tracy , van Schijndel Hannah
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence that marketing has on teenagers and their development of identity and question the ethical implications of this influence. It aims to explore the extrinsic identity and the intrinsic identity using Erikson's model of identity versus role confusion; to identify passive and active personality types within adolescents; and to establish the importance of local community compared with web‐based communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The views of developmental theorists are discussed and correlations between teenagers characterised as active; those who would be identified as being “cool”, and passive characters; those lacking “cool” are drawn. This is then applied to the theories of the self and the empty self, a concept arguably used by marketers who wish to encourage notions of the empty self through negative references to being uncool, with the aim of stimulating a demand for the cool sustenance that they supply. Data were gathered from a questionnaire survey comprising 79 secondary school teenage pupils.

Findings

The findings, though limited to only one locality, show that the majority of the sample was identified as being passive, implying that the majority of these teenagers were aspirational in their quest for cool. In addition, more of the participants felt a part of web‐based communities such as Bebo than of their local community. The study suggests that marketers, ethically or otherwise, are able to target the passive majority by encouraging feelings of being un‐cool encouraging the empty self to then profit from the sales of a cool fulfilling product.

Research limitations/implications

The localisation and survey sample size impose limitations on the generalisation of the findings for a national or even a regional location. Also, the primary research provides only a snap shot of the tastes and personality traits of individuals taking part in the survey at that point in time that are susceptible to change as is the definition of cool. However, the evaluation of the findings offer some interesting and valuable indications of support and contradictions to the theories discussed.

Originality/value

Through an understanding of the strength of the influence marketing has on a teenage demographic and the importance that the teenagers surveyed attached to social network sites, some indication is given of the quest for identity of the youths of today in a UK locality. This study therefore provides a small but valuable stepping stone for a much larger investigation of this concept on a regional or national scale.
Are fashion‐conscious consumers more likely to adopt eco‐friendly clothing?
Authors: Jin Gam Hae
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Previous studies regard purchasing of environmentally friendly clothing (EFC) as a subset of environmental behavior. However, like all clothing, EFC also reflects a consumer's fashion choices, and the many variables that influence EFC purchase decisions must be understood for apparel companies to effectively market eco‐friendly products. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to identify whether fashion and shopping orientation are determinants of EFC purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted to examine the effects of fashion orientation, shopping orientation, and environmental concern and eco‐friendly behavior on purchase intention of EFC. A total of 329 usable questionnaires were collected from young female consumers aged 18‐25 years.

Findings

Factor analysis was used to evaluate both independent variables – predictors: fashion orientation, shopping orientation, environmental concern, and eco‐friendly behavior – and the dependent variable – purchase intention regarding EFC. The findings from a series of linear regression analyses indicated that one fashion orientation factor, two shopping orientation factors, and three environmental concern and eco‐friendly behavior factors are significantly related to consumers' purchase intention regarding EFC.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from this study are limited to young female consumers in the midwestern USA.

Practical implications

This study suggests that the apparel industry should provide an enjoyable retail environment to attract young EFC consumers.

Originality/value

Fashion and shopping orientation have not been utilized to explain consumers' purchase intention regarding EFC. This study suggests some effective marketing approaches to apparel companies, as well as strategies for developing successful sustainable apparel products that consumers will purchase.
The apparel aftermarket in India – a case study focusing on reverse logistics
Authors: Abraham Nandita
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to map and understand the reverse logistics systems in the apparel aftermarket in India. It clarifies the processes involved from the procurement of used clothing until its resale in the aftermarket. The paper identifies that collaboration between stakeholders can improve logistics, business predictability and margins.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 93 in‐depth interviews were conducted with stakeholders. Questions revolved around strategic and operational factors of reverse logistics in the aftermarket.

Findings

This fragmentation and isolation of stakeholders' businesses is identified as the cause of most stakeholder inefficiencies. It was found that benefits accrued by collaboration in the reverse logistics chain are increased market knowledge, more predictable business and better margins.

Research limitations/implications

Mapping and understanding of the reverse logistics were the primary aims of this paper. Researchers are encouraged to look at a value‐addition model based on this paper which could help evaluate further business decisions. Additionally a study of the sustainability aspects of this reverse logistics process would be a valuable addition to knowledge in this area.

Practical implications

Collaborative initiatives can be used as a way to reduce multiplicity of activity, increase predictability and expand business.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need of understanding the apparel aftermarket in India and how reverse logistics may be looked on as a tool to manage the post‐first consumer apparel market.
Improving garment fit and function through ease quantification
Authors: Gill Simeon
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical model for considering ease numerically in the clothing pattern. Classifying the pattern as a geometric Cartesian coordinate system, this model proposes the need to quantify the partly coincident variables of ease, which will enable greater control over garment fit and function, using traditional or CAD/CAM methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The principles of pattern/garment dimensions are considered with support from analysis of literature and contributing factors to the variables of ease are categorised. These principles support a proposed theoretical model for considering pattern/garment dimensions, in the numeric format that they exist within the context of pattern construction.

Findings

Pattern construction occurs in a 2D Cartesian coordinate system, guided by body dimensions and ease. This can be modelled in the form of an algorithm relating to the placement of cardinal points defining the pattern outline. Recognition of the numerical nature of the pattern, suggests the need to quantify the coincident variables of ease, to achieve greater control over garment fit and function.

Research limitations/implications

Few sources exist enabling the recognition of ease requirements in the pattern/garment and when guidance on ease is presented, there is little rationale as to how it has been established, or what contributes to its definition.

Originality/value

The paper shows how current methods of pattern construction can be modelled more effectively, recognising the geometric nature on which they are based. Modelling these relationships highlights where quantification can be provided, by existing knowledge or future research.