bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business policy of Pune auto‐component SMEs a case approach
Authors: Deshpande Mukund , Baporikar Neeta
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Auto‐components industry is a major subsector of automobile manufacturing sector and largest feeder industry that has put India on the global map for excellence and innovation. The purpose of this case study is undertaken to explore and understand the instruments adopted in designing and implementing the policies by Pune auto‐component small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study used published literature and field survey for investigating policies designed and implemented by the SMEs in Pune. Survey was planned for statistical homogeneity on the basis of geography, class of ownership and the period of enquiry. Triangulation between methods, respondents, records and documents, was used to increase accuracy between sources. Structured questionnaire response has been analyzed by logical and statistical techniques to arrive at conclusions. One‐way analysis of variance was employed for statistical analysis to corroborate the findings.

Findings

Pune SMEs have revealed the tri‐lateral instrument consisting of conceptualisation, formulation and outcome analysis as a basis for designing policies for business and further exposed bi‐lateral instrument, which uses grouping of core and complimentary approaches for effectively addressing the challenges in business, which extends to their accomplishment of continued existence and development.

Originality/value

This paper will add value to the knowledge base of entrepreneurship and SMEs especially in auto‐components sector. Apart from this it will aid industrialists, entrepreneurs, consultants, and managers in managing SMEs, making better and informed decisions regarding the adoption of a tri‐lateral approach.
The case of CSR and irresponsible management practices
Authors: Tyagi Ruchi K. , Vasiljevienė Nijolė
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how the government, Lelija management and society realized the fact that being a global organization unethical labor practices will reflect badly on human resources management, the company, and the reputation of the country as a whole.

Design/methodology/approach

In the analysis of social facts, knowledge also consists of already existing ethical norms and values derived from practice, definitely designated, explicitly articulated and unambiguously evaluated. It especially applies to business, professional, and organizational practice. In case analyses, the authors usually deal with events that are presented from a certain viewpoint. However, it is essential to follow the objectivized knowledge and articulated standards. As it will be discussed later, the major parts of information sources for the Lelija's case are competing daily newspapers of Lithuania, their web sites.

Findings

Social realities associated with employment are relations between employers and employees, a labor agreement, working conditions, tasks and compensation for its fulfilment. Irrespective of contradictions of the subjective interests and opinions that accompanied the reality of poor working conditions at Lelija, media outlets have provided a verifiable information about violations of labor laws and payment of fines as restitution.

Originality/value

The present case is prepared for classroom teaching since resort to the journalist material is not very suitable for investigative analysis of cases. It is important to distinguish between facts, evaluation and real circumstances where the facts emerged. This factor is well taken care by the authors while preparing the case.
Efficiency and projection of categorical DMUs: a frontier analysis approach
Authors: Patel G.N. , Pande Smriti
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the performance of 46 pharmacy retail stores and to analyze the impact of non‐discretionary variables on the efficiency of the stores through dividing the decision making units (DMUs) into different categories.

Design/methodology/approach

Basic CCR model is being used to evaluate the efficiency of each store. First, the DMUs are divided into three different categories namely severe, normal and advantageous depending upon the extent of competition that they are facing. Second, basic CCR, Phases I and II models are applied to evaluate efficiency, reference set and projections of DMUs within the categories. Lastly, all DMUs are evaluated together using the same models.

Findings

For situations that are not under the direct control of the management, DEA with categorical DMUs is an appropriate approach for efficiency evaluation because through this approach one can do justice to each store which is a part of the study.

Research limitations/implications

Inclusion of people factor such as customer satisfaction or employee satisfaction can lead to a better analysis and therefore, to a better practical approach.

Originality/value

This study provides a framework for performance evaluation when both discretionary and non‐discretionary variables are to be taken into consideration.
Achieving sustainable development goals through elevating socio‐economic status
Authors: Singh Harjit , Aggarwal Nikunj
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the financial and operating performance of Saraswati Sugar Mills Limited and its impact on the society in the employment generation and upliftment of the socio‐economic status. The study also aimed at finding out the factors responsible for low performance (if any). It helped in comparison of changes in static data from years 1995‐1996 to 2010‐2011.

Design/methodology/approach

Ratio analysis and quantitative techniques such as discrete and continuous time approach has been used to analyze the data. To do financial appraisal, five financial ratios namely working capital turnover ratio, percentage of net sales to capital employed, percentage of gross profit to capital employed, cost output ratio, and value added per man/month were calculated and analyzed to understand the changes in financial and operating position of the company.

Findings

The findings revealed the mixed trends of profit and losses. Net sales and capital employed showed an increasing trend while percentage of net profit to capital employed and cost output ratio declined from 1995‐1996 to 2010‐2011. Working capital was utilised effectively. Value added per man/month also registered an increase of 120.11 percent. In nutshell, the financial and operational performance analysis shows the efficiency of the Saraswati Sugar Mills Private Limited and its contribution towards sustainable development of its immediate society.

Research limitations/implications

The ideal situation could have one if a comparative analysis of both private as well as co‐operative sugar mills can lead to a better analysis and therefore, to a better practical approach.

Originality/value

This study provides a framework for performance evaluation when both discretionary and non‐discretionary variables are to be taken into consideration.
Capacity building through investment in people: key to Africa
'
s development
Authors: M. Nafukho Fredrick
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a prologue to the issue of development in Africa and the critical need to build capacity through investment in people.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper reviews relevant literature on the seminal issues of defining human development, promoting human development in Africa, new development deal for Africa and investment in human capital as key to human development. In addition, the paper provides a brief overview of the articles focusing on capacity building in Africa. Literature pertinent to the topic of development in Africa is provided.

Findings

– Understanding the meaning of development and human development in particular is not only a necessary but a sufficient condition to designing strategies and policies aimed at promoting human development in Africa. As established in this guest editorial, Knowledge, entrepreneurship and the mastery of information and communication technologies in this century should become Africa
'
s best competitive advantage. Instead of people in Africa being consumers of knowledge they should strive to produce knowledge based on their indigenous, cultural, political and socioeconomic perspectives. To do this, African governments must be willing and able to invest in quality education.

Originality/value

– This paper introduces this special issue on capacity building for Africa
'
s development. It reviews the literature on the meaning of development and human development, promoting development in Africa, new development deal for Africa and investment in human capital as key to human development and it gives an overview of the five papers included in this special issue.
Forums for dialogue between university and industry
Authors: Nyerere Jackline , Friso Valeria
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– This paper aims to analyse comparatively the existing partnerships between the University of Padua and the enterprises in Veneto region, Italy, on one hand and Kenyatta University and industries in Kenya on the other.

Design/methodology/approach

– This was a case study of the University of Padua in Veneto Region, Italy, and Kenyatta University in Kenya. Data were collected through interviews with university leaders, a questionnaire with both close and open-ended questions for Heads and Department and Deans of Faculty as well as a close and open ended questionnaire for industry representatives.

Findings

– In comparison, the University of Padua has more forums and platforms through which dialogue with the industry stakeholders is enhanced, with associations like confindustria, the PARIMUN project, the Master association in addition to the alumni association, regular students
'
attachments and the distance learning programme. In Kenya on the other hand, Kenyatta University has partnerships through the provision of distance learning programmes, alumni associations, consultancies, incubation units and undergraduate course placements for select faculties.

Practical implications

– The main implication of the study is that there are many avenues through which university industry partnerships can be enhanced. These range from joint research projects between university and industry, industry input in university course implementations and feedback the supply and demand of graduates in the job market.

Originality/value

– The findings of this study are important to the government, university and industry stakeholders in Kenya in that they provide information on the possible forums for collaborations and the importance of these forums in provision of relevant higher education that can aid sustainable development.
The ten characteristics of world‐class learning and development
Authors: Mustafa Engin
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The paper aims to put forward ten ways in which learning and development can become more effective.

Design/methodology/approach

It explains how each of the ten characteristics – align learning and development with strategic direction, control learning and development activity, develop the learning and development team, quantify learning and development, seek external accreditation and recognition, involve senior leadership, establish a heightened profile, integrate technology in learning, model best practice and move the function outside its comfort zone – helps to ensure that learning and development will become more effective.

Findings

It reveals that showing how learning and development provides a return on investment is only part of demonstrating its success.

Practical implications

The paper emphasizes the importance of learning and development aligning its activities with organizational strategic direction.

Social implications

It highlights the importance of an effective learning and development function to the success of individual organizations and, through that, to society as a whole.

Originality/value

The paper gives easy‐to‐understand advice to learning and development specialists.
Characteristics of established kaizen event programs: an empirical study
Authors: Glover Wiljeana J. , Liu Wen‐Hsing , Farris Jennifer A. , Van Aken Eileen M.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Despite the increased adoption and reported benefits of kaizen event (KE) programs, there is a lack of empirical research documenting their design, implementation and outcomes, as well as what designs may be more vs less effective. This paper aims to present an empirical study describing the characteristics, including outcomes achieved, program attributes, and implementation problems, of 16 established KE programs. Although this study is primarily exploratory and descriptive, the goal is to identify areas for future research, including attributes that appear to support or detract from program success, and the outcomes and implementation problems experienced.

Design/methodology/approach

Using semi‐structured interviews, qualitative data were collected to characterize established KE programs in 16 manufacturing, service, and government organizations. The data were examined using content analysis to identify the most frequent codes for each characteristic, which were then compared to KE program characteristics synthesized from a systematic review of published KE sources. Based on this, a set of propositions were identified to guide future research on KE programs.

Findings

The majority of the 16 organizations reported successful programs, although there was noted variation in organization success. The organizations also neglected to measure many aspects of program success which they considered to be highly important, in particular, human resource outcomes. In addition, the organizations appeared to struggle with sustainability and believe that sustainability problems could threaten long‐term KE program viability. Other potentially influential factors include the types of processes targeted, event types, catalysts for events, and KE resources. The findings were used to develop propositions for future research in these and other specific areas.

Practical implications

The study provides a better understanding of the characteristics of established KE programs, as well as common areas in need of improvement even in these programs, and can be used by practitioners in establishing or improving their KE programs.

Originality/value

By documenting established KE programs across organizations and comparing actual practices to published sources, this study contributes to the development of KE theory and also provides direction for future empirical research.
An instrument for assessing lean service adoption
Authors: Malmbrandt Malin , Åhlström Pär
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically validate an instrument containing operational measures of lean service. The instrument is intended for use by both researchers and practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The instrument was developed and validated in an iterative process between theoretical and empirical insights. Drawing on a wide selection of frequently cited papers on lean service, a preliminary list of items was generated. These items were then vetted through four steps in order to achieve high validity. Empirical refinement and validation included workshops and semi‐structured interviews with expert practitioners, as well as testing the instrument's ability to discriminate between high and low adoption of lean and portray changes during lean service adoption.

Findings

The instrument contains 34 items that assess enablers of lean adoption, lean practices, and operational performance. Empirical validation suggested the instrument was able to discriminate between high and low adoption of lean service, as well as portray changes over time during lean adoption.

Practical implications

Practicing managers will be able to use the instrument in order to track progress during lean service adoption, thereby identifying and acting upon deviations from planned progress.

Originality/value

The paper represents the first comprehensive attempt to develop an instrument for assessing lean service adoption. Through this instrument, operational definitions of lean service will allow researchers to measure the level of lean service adoption, and using this information, to develop knowledge of for instance the contingencies to lean service adoption, the problems and pitfalls in lean service adoption and the feasibility of transferring practices to various service settings.
The impact of organization ownership structure on JIT implementation and production operations performance
Authors: Chen Zhixiang , Hua Tan Kim
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically explore the relationships among organization ownership structure, implementation of just‐in‐time (JIT), and production operations performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A theory model for explaining the relationships among ownership, manufacturing strategy and performance was constructed, and then several hypotheses were tested using statistical analysis models based on questionnaire responses from Chinese manufacturing firms.

Findings

The results show that organization ownership not only impacts the implementation of JIT and operations performance, but also impacts the relationship between JIT implementation and operations performance. Moreover, the results show that, for firms operated in China, the implementation frequency of JIT practices varies with organization ownerships; the foreign and joint venture firms (JVFs) were found to have a higher level of JIT implementation and can also achieve better performance from JIT implementation than state‐owned and private‐owned firms (POF). Also, JIT implementation was found to have a significantly positive relationship with operations performance in all types of ownership firms, with the exception of private ownership firms.

Research limitations/implications

The research only covers manufacturing firms in China. Further research is needed to test the wide implications of this research in other countries or industries.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights into how to improve JIT implementation performances, especially in various organization ownership structures.

Originality/value

The paper appears to be one of the first studies of relationship between ownership structure and JIT implementation in China manufacturing environment.
Organizing warehouse management
Authors: Faber N. , de Koster M.B.M. , Smidts A.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how warehouse management, understood as a cluster of planning and control decisions and procedures, is organized and driven by task complexity (TC) and market dynamics (MD).

Design/methodology/approach

A multi‐variable conceptual model is developed based on the literature and tested among 215 warehouses using a survey.

Findings

The results suggest that TC and MD are the main drivers of warehouse management, measured by planning extensiveness (PE), decision rules complexity, and control sophistication. Differences between production and distribution warehouses are found with respect to the relationship between assortment changes and PE. Furthermore, TC appears to be a main driver of the specificity of the warehouse management (information) system (WMS).

Research limitations/implications

This paper is based on 215 warehouses in The Netherlands and Flanders (Belgium); future research may test the model on a different sample. More research should be conducted to further validate the measures of the core dimensions of warehouse management.

Practical implications

Different levels of TC and MD characterize warehouses. Such a characterization is a first step in determining generic warehouse functionalities and helping managers to decide on the best software for their warehouse operations.

Originality/value

The paper defines the core dimensions of warehouse management, makes them measurable, tests them and assesses how these drivers impact specificity of WMS. The paper shows that PE in production warehouses is driven by different variables than in distribution centers.
A systems approach to education for sustainability in higher education
Authors: Littledyke Michael , Manolas Evangelos , Littledyke Ros Ann
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to investigate education for sustainability (EfS) practice and perceptions in three university contexts in England, Australia and Greece with a view to identify a suitable systems model for effective EfS across the university.

Design/methodology/approach

Research tools involved interviews of key people engaged in EfS (n=25) supported by observations plus appropriate documentary analysis as a basis to establish perceived good practice, barriers and ways to improve EfS.

Findings

Clear vision, leadership and support for EfS were considered vital, while agreed understanding about the importance, purpose and nature of EfS was necessary to achieve effective EfS across the university. Wide consultation, consensual agreement and collaborative practice were viewed as important to achieve collective views and coordinated action. A distributed model of leadership in which individuals are responsible and collectively empowered to action is relevant to a systems model for EfS. A systems model for coordination of EfS integrates approaches to governance, curriculum and infrastructure management. Details of examples of good practice and ways to improve practice are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

As the research was qualitative in design and focussed on three universities, the sample size is restricted and there are limitations in the generalisability of specific results outside of their contexts. However, the overall results have some broadly significant implications and trends that have relevance for the university sector.

Practical implications

The structure and processes for an approach to systems organisation and identified good practice, barriers and perceived ways to improve practice have relevance for coordination of EfS across the university sector.

Social implications

The findings have significant social implications, as EfS has urgent and important international priority, while universities have important functions in educating the next generation of professionals across a wide range of contexts.

Originality/value

The paper is an original contribution to establishing an effective systems model for EfS coordination; hence it is of significant educational and social value.
Intellectual capital disclosure and accounting standards
Authors: Liao P.C. , Ling‐Ching Chan Ann , Seng Jia‐Lang
Published: September 2013

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the association between the intellectual capital disclosure level and the mandatory adoption of international financial reporting standards (IFRS). This paper reports an empirical evidence for the impact of the mandatory adoption of IFRS on the disclosure level of intellectual capital, intangible and knowledge assets. Intellectual capital is categorized into process focus, customer focus, human focus, research and development focus. The linkages between intellectual capital and IFRS adoption are investigated in companies of high technology sector in the UK. A novel approach to measure the effect of the IFRS adoption on intellectual capital disclosure level is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed measure was adopted from the information retrieval algorithm and intellectual capital framework. The empirical model was expanded from the econometric model. The primary data for investigating the interrelationships between intellectual capital and IFRS adopting were hand collected from London Stock Exchange and listed firms' web sites. A comprehensive intellectual capital, intangible assets, and knowledge assets' dictionary were built based on related literature.

Findings

This study reports that the overall accuracy of information retrieval application is up to 78.2 percent. The disclosures of intellectual capital items are closely associated with the IFRS adoption. The results suggest that in older or larger companies, the intellectual capital disclosures increase in the post‐adoption period. Overall, the results confirm that companies in the high‐tech industry are associated with a higher disclosure level following the mandatory adoption of IFRS.

Originality/value

The adaption of information retrieval technique and intellectual capital framework enhances the understanding of the usefulness and readability of annual reports in the post‐adoption period of IFRS in high‐tech industry. This study corroborates and complements those of extant research and sheds light on the effect of IFRS adoption on voluntary disclosures. These findings will enable top management around the world to realize the impact of the IFRS adoption on intellectual capital elements so that long‐term strategic knowledge assets management may be emphasized for sustainable competitive edge.
Creating value through wholesaler and retailer interface
Authors: Eriksson David , Hilletofth Per , Hilmola Olli‐Pekka
Published: September 2013

Purpose

In the premium price range, retailer collaboration and showroom decoration as well as information dissemination play an important role in the consumer sector, particularly in furniture sales. The purpose of this research is to report findings from Swedish wholesaler and its process to improve sales of order driven furniture business.

Design/methodology/approach

A large case study including 26 companies follows in longitudinal manner the retailers' contribution to value creation based on a value gaps model. Both qualitative and quantitative data are used. Approach was chosen as wholesaler needed to change its business strategy due to high competition.

Findings

Innovative products may lose consumer perceived value, if information of the product is distorted by the retailers. It is of course so that the number of display pieces in retailer outlets play important role, but actually the way these are presented is most critical. Only one retailer in this study followed wholesaler's guidance, but again this retailer was able to show best sales. In turn, some retailers performed much lower than expected, as they were not interested from new sales concept implemented due to strategy change at wholesaler.

Research limitations/implications

The service quality gaps model has been adjusted and is presented as a value gaps model that may be used to understand, how value creation is not limited to a single company in a supply chain. However, the authors would like to emphasize that the observations are not necessarily enough as only one wholesale company and its retailer network in Sweden was followed.

Practical implications

The common practice for wholesalers to focus on display pieces is not sufficient. The retailers' ability to contribute to value creation needs to be considered, and this starts from collaboration at showroom level. This particularly concerns items in other than low cost product groups.

Originality/value

The research introduces information distortion as a concept to understand, how consumer perceived value might be reduced by value gaps in a supply chain. Research is also unique in a way that it reports business strategy in other than low end segment (lowest costs), but still wholesaler procures products from Asia (China), and develops models in Sweden.
How social-media enhanced learning platforms support students in taking responsibility for their own learning
Authors: Pals Svendsen Lisbet , Smedegaard Mondahl Margrethe
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The paper is based on the chapter “How Social Media Enhanced Learning Platforms Challenge and Motivate Students to Take Charge of Their Own Learning Processes – A Few Examples” from the publication Increasing Student Engagement and Retention using Social Technologies: Facebook, e-Portfolios and other Social Networking Services and on the authors’ research on ICT and social media enhanced learning in the foreign language/intercultural learning high school and university environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper discusses learning in general and didactic practices in the two sectors and how social media enhanced learning platforms challenge and motivate students in their learning processes.

Findings

– The paper provides examples from didactic experiments carried out at the Copenhagen Business School and in Danish high schools. The authors focus on the changing role of teachers from the traditional role of (almost) full teacher responsibility for classroom action to a coaching and facilitating role where students assume increasing responsibility for their learning and for classroom activities. The paper also discusses the transfer and application of experiences made on the basis of changing didactic practices and views the positive and less positive experiences.

Originality/value

– The paper shares work-in-progress experience in regard to the growing body of knowledge about the use of ICT in the twenty-first century classroom.
Creating a virtual academic community for STEM students
Authors: B. Elliot Lisa , Rubin Benjamin , J. DeCaro James , William Clymer E. , Earp Kathy , D. Fish Michele
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe synchronous, remote tutoring for the Deaf STEM Community Alliance's virtual academic community (VAC). The alliance addresses critical barriers for students who are deaf or hard of hearing (D/HH) in postsecondary science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors.

Design/methodology/approach

– A mixed-method approach (qualitative content analysis and descriptive statistics) documents project activities.

Findings

– Google+ Hangouts was used for remote tutoring. Participants completed 57 tutoring sessions. Participants found tutoring beneficial, especially for its convenience. Technical assistance and feedback systems were created to support participants. Grade point averages (GPA) and retention remained stable.

Research limitations/implications

– Research on this project continues. Small sample size is a limitation of the study. Ongoing research investigates how remote technology and social media impact learning for students who are D/HH.

Practical implications

– Scholarship on social media for educational purposes is minimal. While specifics of particular social media platforms vary, recruitment, technical assistance, and establishing feedback mechanisms are common issues for VACs. Outcomes from this study will be used to improve this VAC and create documentation for replication.

Social implications

– The Deaf STEM Community Alliance provides supportive resources to underrepresented students in STEM majors. Improved GPA and retention in STEM majors will generate more individuals qualified for STEM careers. Research on VACs creates opportunities to understand how technology and networked communities change knowledge and learning.

Originality/value

– The Deaf STEM Community Alliance is a unique project for postsecondary students in STEM fields who are D/HH. The information is valuable to educators interested in using social media for instruction.
Prisoner intentions to participate in an electronic monitoring scheme: an application of the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Young Rhonda Maria , Raymond Prentice Garry , McLaughlin Christopher George
Published: September 2013

Purpose

There is a need to address the implications of offender electronic monitoring (EM) within Ireland. Thus this research examined prisoner EM participation intentions through an application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) (Ajzen, 1991).

Design/methodology/approach

A male sample (n=101) from two Dublin prisons completed a TPB survey anonymously.

Findings

The moderately favourable prisoner attitudes suggested positive orientations towards participation in EM but did suggest some perceived difficulties. Subjective norms had a strong positive influence on intentions.

Research limitations/implications

Prisoner intentions were generally positive towards EM participation. This bodes well for future EM schemes in Ireland. It is also essential to gather other perspectives relevant to the prison system, when implementing EM.

Originality/value

The TPB offers an effective approach to understanding prisoner's EM intentions. More specifically, the TPB pinpointed the prisoners’ favourable intentions towards participating in an EM scheme by highlighting the influence of positive attitudes towards EM and their strong belief that significant others shared these positive attitudes.
Evaluating the factor structure and reliability of the Community Attitudes Toward Sex Offenders (CATSO) scale
Authors: Shelton Lyn , Stone Julia , Winder Belinda
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The study explored the factor structure and reliability of the Community Attitudes Toward Sex Offenders (CATSO) scale. The study also included an impression management scale.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 441 adults (134 male, 280 female, 27 ns) participated in this study from three populations: staff at a category B prison (n=62), staff at a category C sex offender prison (n=102) and staff at a UK university (n=248). Questionnaire packs included information/consent, demographics, the CATSO and the Paulhus impression management scale.

Findings

Data were excluded where the Paulhus score was <1 or >12 (faking good/bad present). Confirmatory factor analysis with alternative models indicated the scale did not meet any of the requirements for an acceptable fit. Cronbach's α confirmed that two of the four sub‐scales were not internally consistent. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted following the removal of items with poor item‐total correlation and/or low/high facility index and, following parallel analysis, a revised two factor solution was examined. The CATSO needs revision; it is unclear whether it is sufficiently reliable and valid for use in the UK. The need for a valid/reliable tool to assess attitudes toward sexual offenders remains an important goal for researchers.

Originality/value

Church et al. (2008) developed a scale (CATSO) to measure attitudes toward sex offenders; the scale is being increasingly widely used across a range of populations, including the general public and correctional staff. This research identifies significant problems with the scale in terms of factor structure and reliability of the sub‐scales. This paper advises a rethink of the CATSO by the scale authors and suggest the scale is not currently useable.
Measuring corporate personality with social responsibility bench marks
Authors: Cronjé Freek , van Wyk Johann
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Responding to the growing amounts of power that corporations exert within society, stakeholder groups are increasingly placing companies under pressure to prove their commitments to the idea of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Despite various mechanisms such as codes and principles being implemented in order to guide corporate actions, a clear need has been identified for better measuring tools of CSR. The bench marks is one of the most comprehensive CSR frameworks available and was chosen by this study to develop into a practical measuring instrument. The purpose of this paper is to report on the development process of the instrument.

Design/methodology/approach

Two main research methods have been applied, namely a literature review and an empirical study which included theoretically recognised phases for measuring instrument development. One of the phases involved a survey with questionnaires administered on 189 randomly selected respondents.

Findings

Apart from successfully measuring CSR performance in line with the bench marks, the developed instrument has been found to be useful as a measuring mechanism for corporate personality (CP).

Originality/value

CP valuation is achieved by measuring company behaviour in terms of the theoretical dimensions of CSR and sustainable development. In doing so, this instrument provides companies with a unique way of identifying their status of being true corporate citizens.
Corporate responsibility, supply chain management and strategy
Authors: Gold Stefan , Heikkurinen Pasi
Published: September 2013

Purpose

In search of new perspectives on sustainable food production, this paper focuses on three fields of literature, namely corporate responsibility (CR), supply chain management (SCM) and strategy. The purpose of this paper is to identify the recent theoretical developments and then integrate them in a framework for studying and managing corporations.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceiving socio‐cultural and economic systems within the ecosystem, this paper call for research in the food sector that takes the planetary boundaries into consideration and places the essential needs of the world's poor onto the research agenda of CR, SCM and strategy.

Findings

First, a new perspective on CR could be “holistic and beyond responsive”, as it emphasizes the focal actor's role. Second, SCM could be strengthened at its interface with sustainability by the “bottom of the pyramid” view, as it looks for new ways to make business models and operations beneficial for poor communities. And third, in examining the strategies for these two, the strategy‐as‐practice perspective might prove useful, as it is not only limited to organizational practice but also includes the concepts of organizational praxis and practitioners.

Research limitations/implications

This paper argues that these new perspectives are promising avenues for managing and studying business in the food sector, and thus have implications for both academia and industry.

Originality/value

The framework provided in the paper combines three important areas of business research for sustainable development, namely CR, SCM and strategy.
Digital personalities: an examination of the online identity of travel and tourism web sites
Authors: Virginia Phelan Kelly , Mills Juline E. , Douglas Alecia C. , Brian Aday James
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify whether travel and tourism related web sites derive a certain personality type.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed the ten‐item personality inventory (TIPI) measure to assess personality dimensions of 188 tourism web sites including airlines, hotels, cruise lines, casinos, restaurants, and government funded travel web sites. Data analysis of 413 cases was conducted through mean comparisons and ANOVA.

Findings

Data identified web sites representing different segments of the hospitality and tourism industries do vary in relation to online personalities. More specifically, web sites for venues such as casinos were represented as extraverted while lodging web sites were deemed more conscientious.

Research limitations/implications

While this study aimed to identify web site personalities of businesses within the tourism segment, not all categories were represented. Furthermore, response choices were limited only 20 of the personality objectives from the TIPI personality scale were examined.

Practical implications

This study demonstrated different personality characteristics are represented through tourism web sites, indicating providers may need to focus their web presence in a manner which engages potential travellers based on such features.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the body of scholarly research related to TIPI and further demonstrates consumer awareness and preference for web sites which augment their personality.
Internal integration within human resource management subsystems
Authors: Kidron Aviv , Tzafrir Shay S. , Meshulam Ilan , Iverson Roderick D.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to develop a deeper understanding of the construct “integration within the HRM subsystem”. The study attempts to shed light on the conceptual perspective, the characteristics of this construct as well as the meaning and the mechanisms of internal integration within a HRM subsystem.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure involves three main steps: first data reduction followed by data display and conclusion drawing/verification. Semi‐structured, face‐to‐face interviews with 21 vice‐president HRM managers and senior managers were conducted. The average time of the interviews was 60 minutes.

Findings

The findings revealed a model composed of HRM infrastructure (HRM cooperative policy, integrative core competence, and integrative technological infrastructure), internal communication process (formal and informal) and integrating process (consistency of HRM practices at the subsystem and individual levels). The first two categories are related with the dependent category‐integrating process.

Practical implications

HRM subsystems should develop their integrative technological infrastructure so that they can have a wide‐ranging view about their activities. Also, informal mechanisms may enhance the integrating process, as well as the formal mechanisms. Thus, managers should support and encourage the informal climate, and facilitate especially on informal communication.

Originality/value

The findings suggest a new approach for analyzing the integration process within an organizational HR sub‐system. On the one hand, the continuity of integration demonstrates how each category may contribute to the integration process on a high level. On the other, the low level of each category illustrates the opposite side of integration.
Introducing discriminatory job loss: antecedents, consequences, and complexities
Authors: Bell Myrtle P. , Berry Daphne P. , Marquardt Dennis J. , Galvin Green Tiffany
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of discriminatory job loss (DJL), which occurs when discrimination and job loss intersect. The paper aims to discuss the antecedents and consequences of DJL and calls for research on the topic.

Design/methodology/approach

Diversity and careers research from management, psychology, economics, and sociology literatures on discrimination, job loss, and unemployment are examined.

Findings

Discriminatory job loss involves discriminatory termination, discriminatory layoff, retaliatory termination, and constructive discharge and exacerbates negative outcomes of discrimination or job loss alone. Antecedents to DJL are the external and internal environments. DJL affects unemployment duration and reemployment quality and targets self‐esteem, self‐efficacy, and perceived control.

Social implications

When large numbers of people experience DJL and long unemployment durations and lower re‐employment quality, this affects the individuals as well as society. In times of high employment, when jobs are scarce, individuals have fewer employment options and employers have more freedom to engage in discrimination. Having large groups of people know that their ability to maintain employment is negatively affected by their demographic group membership while others know that their demographic membership provides employment privileges can result in long‐term negative individual, organizational, and societal consequences.

Originality/value

This paper brings attention to, and calls for research on, DJL and its negative consequences.
Tailoring model in reforming police organizations towards community policing
Authors: Yilmaz Sefer
Published: September 2013

Purpose

This paper aims to suggest that a police organization should prefer change management approaches and methods that would not only lead the organization towards an effective position in preventing crime and fighting terrorism but also enable it to be in harmony with the organizational environment that answers both the expectations of the organization's employees and of the public.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a discussion paper.

Findings

The goal will be achieved through developing a new approach, namely the “Tailoring model”, setting out from the similarities between the change manager and a tailor, who designs and prepares a garment taking into consideration both the physical characteristics and personal preferences of the client with the environmental conditions where the suit will be worn.

Originality/value

The paper not only adds significant perspectives for police organization managers in conducting reform initiatives to adapt community policing successfully but also contributes to the literature by developing a model for adapting change management approaches on a specific field of police organizations.
Impact of group dynamics on eservice implementation
Authors: Hossan Chowdhury , Dixon Christopher , Brown David
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to re‐appraise the significance of Lewin's group dynamics theory empirically in the context of technology related change in local government.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines qualitatively the change management processes in the five city councils selected for this study that have developed eservices. A total of 23 face‐to‐face, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with key managers of participating city councils.

Findings

The present study finds that participating Australian city councils are experiencing some degree of disconfirmation of functions, while some participating Australian city councils still maintain a quasi‐stationary equilibrium state. There are some challenges in terms of inter‐department integration and empowering business units to demonstrate explicit ownership of Eservices adoption. Empirical evidence presented in this study supports Lewin's argument that the main focus of change should be on group behaviour rather than individual behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

This study covers five organizations that are from the same geographical proximity and metropolitan area. The findings are limited to government organisations.

Practical implications

The findings of this study would be useful for facilitating technology oriented change in public sector organisations.

Originality/value

This paper reinforces Lewin's argument that to understand change and the individual in the changing organisation, it is necessary to identify, plot, and establish the dynamics of the group. Some insights are provided regarding the complexity of group dynamics and the impact they have when implementing organisation wide‐change.