bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of wire bunch electrodes in electric discharge machining
Authors: Dursun Kadir , Cogun Can
Published: July 2009

Purpose

In electrical discharge machining (EDM) process, the production of separate electrodes for rough, semi‐rough and finish machining of dies and moulds having complex surfaces, results in high cost and long lead‐time in manufacturing. The purpose of this paper is to describe the machining performance of electrodes formed by using copper wire bunches (WBs) positioned to conform the surface to be machined was experimentally and theoretically analyzed. In the study, the variations in the machining rate, electrode wear rate, relative wear and workpiece surface roughness were examined for various discharge current and pulse‐time settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Copper WBs positioned to conform the surface to be machined in electric discharge machining. The variations in the machining rate, electrode wear rate, relative wear and workpiece surface roughness were examined experimentally for various discharge current and pulse‐time settings. The WB electrodes (WBEs) are proven to be satisfactory as electrodes for roughing operations in electric discharge machining.

Findings

The increase in number of wires and pulse energy result in decrease of relative wear for each wire in the electrode. The increase in number of wires in electrodes causes increase in machining area and in machining time in WBE method. With the increase of discharge current and pulse time, the electrode wear rate and material removal values increase and machining time decreases. By using the mathematical models obtained from the result of the experiments, the electrode wear rate, material removal rate, relative wear and the set length of wires for the desired cavity profile can be calculated. The labor cost of electrode manufacturing in the WBE method is lower compared to conventional solid electrodes. The use of WBE method for rough machining decreases machining cost and time. The use of WBE method decreases both the number of the electrodes required and the delay in starting machining due to the preparation of electrode in EDM.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the benefits of using WBE in electric discharge machining; wear and material removal characteristics of WBEs are introduced; the surface roughness characteristics of surfaces produced by WBEs are examined experimentally; and the effect of number of wires used in WBEs given (experimental findings).
Cross‐cultural comparison of customer satisfaction research: USA vs Japan
Authors: Sajid Khan M. , Naumann Earl , Bateman Rob , Haverila Matti
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a cross‐cultural comparison of customer satisfaction research in the USA and Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

The Multinational Corporation (MNC) in this study applies a standardized research approach worldwide to measure satisfaction among customers for business services. Quantitative surveys are used to gather data from 707 senior managers in the USA and 700 senior managers in Japan.

Findings

The results of the analysis show that there are both similarities and differences across countries in the way customers conceptualize relevant construct, and evaluate supplier performance. The results also suggest that adaptation of research methodologies from country to country should be done.

Research limitations/implications

This paper identifies key differences in the way customers both in the USA and Japan respond to survey research, but this paper has not identified reasons causing these differences.

Practical implications

Conceptual models and research approaches developed in the USA cannot simply be applied cross culturally without modification. This study has implications in a business‐to‐business (B2B) services context only.

Originality/value

MNCs play a major role in world trade, but over 30 years of discussion have failed to resolve the question of standardization vs adaptation in marketing across borders and consumer satisfaction research. The present study aims to address these concerns in a B2B services context and provide some useful insights for both managers and academics. The paper justifies that our US model in this study is only partially validated in Japan.
Application of a low‐glitch current cell in 10‐bit CMOS current‐steering DAC
Authors: Cui Zhi‐Yuan , Choi Joong‐Ho , Kim Yeong‐Seuk , Kim Shi‐Ho , Kim Nam‐Soo
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the application of low‐glitch current cell in a digital to analog converter (DAC) to reduce the clock‐feedthrough effect and achieve a low power consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

A low‐glitch current switch cell is applied in a ten‐bit two‐stage DAC which is composed of a unary cell matrix for six most significant bits and a binary weighted array for four least significant bits (LSBs). The current cell is composed of four transistors to neutralize the clock‐feedthrough effect and it enables DAC to operate in good linearity and low power consumption. The prototype DAC is being implemented in a 0.35μm complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor process. The reduction in glitch energy and power consumption has been realized by preliminary experiment and simulation.

Findings

Compared to conventional current cell, more than 15 per cent reduction of glitch energy has been obtained in this work. The DAC is estimated that differential nonlinearity is within 0.1 LSB and the maximum power consumption is 68 mW at the sampling frequency of 100 MHz.

Originality/value

Comparison with other conventional work indicates that the current cell proposed in this paper shows much better performance in terms of switching spike and glitch, which may come from the extra dummy transistor in cell and reduce the clock‐feedthrough effect.
Chemical characterization of failures and process materials for microelectronics assembly
Authors: Huang Chien‐Yi , Li Ming‐Shu , Ku Chen‐Liang , Hsieh Hao‐Chun , Li Kung‐Cheng
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the chemical characterization of failures and process materials for microelectronics assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical techniques used for chemical structures and compositions including Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy are conducted.

Findings

The residues on the golden finger are identified to be the flux used in the assembly processes. Besides, the contaminants on the processed and incoming connector pins are verified to be polyamides (–CONH functional groups) from housing material's residue. Three liquid fluxes used in wave soldering are analyzed by their chemical structure. One flux showing the OH groups at 3430 cm−1 indicates higher acid contents. This consists with the acidic values specified by the supplier. Also, the solder mask under study has ever appeared peeled‐off issue. The FTIR spectra results indicated 62.2 percent degree of curing while vendor's spec is above 70 percent.

Originality/value

The establishment of the Infrared spectra database for fluxes and process materials help determine the root cause of the contaminants to reduce re‐occurrence of similar problems and thus enhance the manufacturing capability. The infrared spectrophotometry technique can be used by professional original design manufacturing and/or electronics manufacturing service, providers to investigate board/component defects during product pilot run stage and volume production.
Effects of process variation in VLSI interconnects – a technical review
Authors: Verma K.G. , Kaushik B.K. , Singh R.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Process variation has become a major concern in the design of many nanometer circuits, including interconnect pipelines. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of types and sources of all aspects of interconnect process variations.

Design/methodology/approach

The impacts of these interconnect process variations on circuit delay and cross‐talk noises along with the two major sources of delays – parametric delay variations and global interconnect delays – have been discussed.

Findings

Parametric delay evaluation under process variation method avoids multiple parasitic extractions and multiple delay evaluations as is done in the traditional response surface method. This results in significant speedup. Furthermore, both systematic and random process variations have been contemplated. The systematic variations need to be experimentally modeled and calibrated while the random variations are inherent fluctuations in process parameters due to any reason in manufacturing and hence are non‐deterministic.

Originality/value

This paper usefully reviews process variation effects on very large‐scale integration (VLSI) interconnect.
The EU clothing market in 2008 – opening the floodgates?
Authors: Curran Louise
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the trends on clothing imports into the EU in 2008, the year when quantitative restrictions on all EU clothing imports lapsed.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at trade figures as reported by Eurostat and, in particular changes between 2004‐2008, the period during which clothing trade was liberalised.

Findings

The paper finds that clothing imports from China increased in 2008 as predicted by many actors. However the extent of this increase was less than might have been expected from the impact of earlier liberalisations. Several explanations are suggested for this observation. More broadly, the liberalisation of the EU clothing market seems to have had rather negative impacts on clothing suppliers in the EU neighbourhood, while amongst developing country suppliers the impacts have been rather varied, with Bangladesh and India showing quite strong performance while other, often smaller, suppliers have seen rather negative trends. The impact on the Asian tigers has been universally negative, with large falls in exports, especially in Hong Kong and Macao.

Practical implications

The year 2008 was the first for decades that EU clothing imports were unrestricted by quotas. These trade figures therefore give us a good indication of the true situation in relation to competitive advantage within a sector in which trade has long been distorted by policy.

Originality/value

The trade figures for 2008 have only just become available, therefore this is the first chance to look at trade flows into the EU in an unrestricted context.
Investigation of leather industry competitiveness in Iran
Authors: Shafaei Rasoul , Shahriari Hamid , Moradi Morteza
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the competitiveness of the Iranian leather value chain (LVC) and compare that with those of nine other countries including China, Pakistan, Turkey, Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Spain, Italy, Brazil and the USA. The results presented in the paper seek to assist in assessing the competitive performance of the LVC in Iran. In addition, based on Porter's diamond of competitive advantages, the aim is to provide recommendations to improve the competitive performance of the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An economic method, i.e. revealed comparative advantage (RCA), as a well‐known approach, is used to investigate the competitive performance of LVC in Iran. The LVC products analyzed in this research include hide, skin, leather manufacture, trunks and cases, and footwear. In addition, in order to investigate the factors which affect the low competitive performance, a questionnaire based on Porter's diamond of competitive advantages was designed and completed by researchers and practitioners working in the field of leather industry. Finally the reasons for low competitive performance of the industry are discussed.

Findings

The results reveal that the competitiveness of the Iranian LVC is low, compared with those of some other countries. China and Italy have superior comparative advantages in the period studied. The results also indicate that except one product, Iran has no comparative advantage in LVC industry. In addition, Iran has mainly focused on the upstream sector of LVC whereas China and Italy compete more in the downstream sector which offers more value added products. The results also reveal that among the elements studied, specialized factors, availability of capital, quality of demand and stability of macroeconomics highly influence the competitive performance of LVC in Iran. This is followed by subsequent recommendations on how best to improve the competitive performance of the industry.

Originality/value

The results of the investigation presented in this paper give an insight into the competitiveness of the LVC in Iran compared with nine other countries which play an important role in this industry in the world. The results also confirm that RCA can be used as an effective approach to assess the competitive performance of industries. Furthermore, reommendations provided in this paper assist in improving the competitive performance of the industry. In general, the findings should prove useful for both researchers and practitioners.
Apparel consumers' body type and their shopping characteristics
Authors: Park Jaekyung , Nam Yunja , Choi Kueng‐mi , Lee Yuri , Lee Kyu‐Hye
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the relationships between consumers' body types and characteristics such as shopping orientation, past experience with fit problems, attitudes toward internet shopping and attitudes toward 3‐D body scanning.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected body data from 441 Korean females who participated in 3‐D body scanning. Using a hierarchical cluster analysis, the body scanning identified five body types. Then body types and shopping characteristics variables were analyzed.

Findings

Slim respondents showed significantly higher hedonic shopping orientation and their attitude to internet shopping was positive, since they evaluated using the internet as being “fun”. By contrast, respondents with larger body types considered the convenience of internet shopping to be the most important feature. Respondents, regardless of their body types, regarded 3‐D body scanning as an enjoyable, futuristic and interesting experience. Moreover, respondents showed a high inclination to spend more money for customization services which utilize the 3‐D scanning technique.

Originality/value

This study analyzed Korean females' body shapes using 3‐D scanned body measurements. This study can contribute to integrate knowledge in the body measurement sector and the consumer behavior sector.
Exploring how garment firms choose international sourcing‐ and sales‐country markets
Authors: Swoboda Bernhard , Foscht Thomas , Maloles Cesar , Schramm‐Klein Hanna
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how firms that do both sourcing and selling choose which countries to source from and to which countries to sell. It also looked at the role of competitive strategy, vertical integration, and foreign involvement in the decision‐making.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument that was designed based on personal interviews with 20 German garment industry executives was administered to 750 German, Austrian and Swiss garment manufacturers. In total, 93 questionnaires were usable. Factor analysis was employed in evaluating the data.

Findings

The results indicate that firms that both source and sell at the same time have more complex decision making than normative models suggest. These decisions tend not to be isolated decisions. The factors that are considered in sourcing are different in the decision as to where to sell. Foreign involvement, competitive strategy, and vertical integration influence the firms' decision making.

Research limitations/implications

The study is exploratory in nature and it is limited in its application. Moreover, the disproportionately large number of German respondents may skew the results. In addition, the total number of respondents is relatively small. The study may also suffer from any or all of the following deficiencies: lack of reliability and validity test, having only one executive per firm respond to the survey, not considering country‐specific characteristics, and lack of control for the market‐entry strategy and market size variables.

Originality/value

Most research in this area focuses on either the sourcing or the selling side. This study looks at how sourcing and selling decisions are made by firms engaged in both activities. Additionally, the roles of competitive strategy, vertical integration, and foreign involvement in relation to the decision making are investigated.
An investigation on the cost implications of methodology of sub‐contract work pricing
Authors: Dow Ian , Sertyesilisik Begum , Ross Andrew David
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify how much particular variables influence the cost differences between order values and final accounts for certain trade subcontractors.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consists of a literature survey and a case study. A sample of 33 projects, undertaken by a contracting organisation, are analysed as a basis for testing their significance.

Findings

For highly asset specific transactions the research suggests that the level of variables which can affect their performance is greatest, suggesting integration within the contracting firm to mitigate the threat of opportunistic behaviour. Procurement route utilised on a project was strongly linked to outturn cost performance, as is inclusion in the tender bid, suggesting earlier subcontractor involvement through design and build and partnering arrangements is significantly better at managing subcontractor cost performance than traditional routes.

Originality/value

The market volatility of the construction industry has meant the procurement of subcontractors has long been established as an important part of the project coalition. Transaction cost economic theory has recently become popular within the construction research industry. Much of this research has examined the vertical boundaries to which a construction firm is subjected when considering integration of trades or continued use of subcontractors. Empirical data on the cost performance of subcontractors within a project environment are not widely available. For this reason, this research aids practitioners and researchers by identifying why particular variables influence the cost differences between order values and final accounts for certain trade subcontractors.
SWOT analysis of domestic private enterprises in developing infrastructure projects in China
Authors: Ke Yongjian , Zhao Xinbo , Wang Yingying , Wang ShouQing
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to help domestic private enterprises (DPEs) identify their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) in developing infrastructure projects in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on extensive literature reviews coupled with brainstorming and interviews methodologies to compile a list of SWOT factors for DPEs in developing infrastructures. To validate the significance of the identified SWOT list, a questionnaire survey is thus carried out.

Findings

The paper identifies 16 strengths, 15 weaknesses, 16 opportunities, and 21 threats for DPEs in developing infrastructure projects in China. The opinions of respondents from different sectors are sought and evaluated to obtain the relative significance of these factors. A set of major SWOT hypotheses is then derived using factor analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to identifying SWOT factors in common, therefore the next step should be proposing an adjustment framework to support decision marking.

Practical implications

These findings should provide a valuable reference not only for DPEs but also for foreign investors who are planning to invest in infrastructure projects in China.

Originality/value

The investors in both rounds of infrastructure investments in China in the last two decades have limitations. Foreign investors acting as the major player in the first round usually charge higher and prefer operating projects in more developed regions, while state‐owned enterprises as the principal player in the second round are inefficient in the operation and management, which largely restrained the advantages of public‐private partnership model. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore the potential of DPEs, another potential major player in developing infrastructure projects. To this end, this paper provides valuable information through a comprehensive SWOT analysis to the DPEs.
Harmonisation of knowledge management – comparing 160 KM frameworks around the globe
Authors: Heisig Peter
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at how knowledge management (KM) has entered into a new phase where consolidation and harmonisation of concepts is required. Some first standards have been published in Europe and Australia in order to foster a common understanding of terms and concepts. The aim of this study was to analyse KM frameworks from research and practice regarding their model elements and try to discover differences and correspondences.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 160 KM frameworks from science, practice, associations and standardization bodies have been collected worldwide. These frameworks have been analysed regarding the use and understanding of the term knowledge, the terms used to describe the knowledge process activities and the factors influencing the success of knowledge management. Quantitative and qualitative content analysis methods have been applied.

Findings

The result shows that despite the wide range of terms used in the KM frameworks an underlying consensus was detected regarding the basic categories used to describe the knowledge management activities and the critical success factors of KM. Nevertheless regarding the core term knowledge there is still a need to develop an improved understanding in research and practice.

Originality/value

The first quantitative and qualitative analysis of 160 KM frameworks from different origin worldwide.
The dark side of successful knowledge management initiatives
Authors: Chua Alton Y.K.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to cast the spotlight on a class of KM initiatives whose very success has ironically bred negative consequences not usually detected in the short‐term or on the surface.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded theory approach was adopted in this paper since there is a lack of prior research in this area. Data was collected primarily through face‐to‐face interviews with personnel using purposive sampling. In addition to the interviews, archival data in the form of annual reports, web sites, in‐house publications and e‐mail correspondences were collected.

Findings

A typological framework which identifies four archetypes of KM initiatives, their success and dark side is developed. In particular, the dark sides include competency trap hyperbolic discounting dogmatism and social alienation and opportunistic behaviors and ethically‐questionable practices.

Research limitations/implications

Given the exploratory nature of this study and the limited cases involved, the findings may likely be influenced by the peculiarities of the case, including the nature of the organizations, the state of the KM initiatives and the sentiments of the stakeholders at the point of data collection.

Practical implications

The message of this paper for practitioners is not to be easily contented with the early and outward form of success, but be cognizant and pre‐empt the dysfunctional outcomes as the KM initiative progresses.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the earliest efforts to examine the dark side of successful KM initiatives, a subtle KM implementation issue that receives little attention from practitioner and scholars alike.
Knowledge criteria for organization design
Authors: Mahesh Kavi , Suresh J.K.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual and practical basis for developing new organization structures by augmenting the old through virtual knowledge based structures. While organization structure has a major impact on knowledge exchange, its design nevertheless continues to be governed by criteria that are often in conflict with the needs of knowledge management. In an era where knowledge is increasingly acknowledged to be a central factor of production in the modern enterprise, the resulting deficiencies in the design often lead to sub‐optimal capability for organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Borrowing from Drucker's elucidation of the characteristics and determinants of a successful organization in the new economy, the consequences of the transition from an economy of goods to that of knowledge are analyzed briefly in the background of KM. The study highlights an enduring deficiency in present day organizations, wherein structure is relatively uninfluenced by knowledge considerations even as organizational functions have come to depend more on knowledge exchange. A design approach that addresses this lacuna is elaborated and illustrated through a case study.

Findings

This paper explores knowledge criteria for designing organization structure, proposes a hybrid solution with knowledge units (KUs) superimposed on a conventional structure and illustrates its practical application in developing KUs to create sustainable drivers for organizational value, performance and growth.

Originality/value

Provides knowledge criteria for the design of organization structure to aid organizational growth, responsiveness and performance. For theorists, provides a conceptual base for efficient organizational design; for practitioners in the areas of planning, knowledge management and organizational effectiveness, provides design criteria for optimal performance.
Research on knowledge transfer in organizations: a morphology
Authors: Ajith Kumar J. , Ganesh L.S.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present and describe a morphology of the research literature on knowledge transfer in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This morphology, which is a comprehensive framework characterizing the knowledge transfer literature in terms of dimensions and options, was developed by an extensive scanning of the pertinent literature.

Findings

Eight dimensions were found suitable to characterize the knowledge transfer research literature. Corresponding to each dimension, two to six options were found.

Research limitations/implications

The morphology demonstrates the extensiveness and variety of knowledge transfer research. To academics, the morphology can serve as a map of the knowledge transfer territory. Using the morphology, researchers can easily assess how an existing study fits in with the entire body of knowledge transfer research. Secondly, they can discern areas that have received less attention in comparison to others and thus identify gaps they may wish to address in a new study. KM practitioners can use the morphology to assess their knowledge transfer strategies in terms of the dimensions it currently has/lacks, and take appropriate decisions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, a morphological approach has not been attempted so far to characterize KM research literature. The approach used can be applied to other areas of management as well, for similar purposes.
The use of knowledge management by German innovators
Authors: Cantner Uwe , Joel Kristin , Schmidt Tobias
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to uncover factors that influence a firm's decision to implement knowledge management practices. The focus is on knowledge management practices implemented to increase collaboration on innovation activities between actors within a firm.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical analysis (probit estimations) of survey data on over 1,500 innovative German firms from the Mannheim Innovation Panel of 2003.

Findings

The paper finds that an innovation strategy targeted at consumers and continuous R&D activities are positively related to knowledge management usage by innovative German firms. In addition, more general characteristics like the size and the industry of a firm also influence the decision to use knowledge management.

Research limitations/implications

Given data restrictions the paper only analyses the collaborative aspects of knowledge management in firms. Future research should also take into account knowledge transfer, creativity, storage efforts in firms and IT related aspects of knowledge management and investigate the determinants of and complementarities between all of these different techniques. The paper is limited in both the time period it analyses and regional scope. Further research is necessary to investigate whether the results also hold for other countries and other periods.

Originality/value

The analysis in this paper contributes to the existing literature by investigating the determinants of firms' decisions to engage in knowledge management activities using a large‐scale survey of firms from a variety of different industries. The data used grant a unique insight into the innovation activities of firms and knowledge management approaches connected to these activities.
Foresight for smart globalization
Authors: Jhirad David , Juech Claudia , Michelson Evan S.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the concept of smart globalization and identify links with the Rockefeller Foundation's philanthropic activities in a number of areas, including health, climate change, urbanization, economic insecurities, and basic survival needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses how a new conceptualization of globalization intersects with the field of foresight by describing the Rockefeller Foundation's approach to addressing complex issues of human development.

Findings

A forward looking research component is a valuable organizational structure that can add value by tracking and monitoring current and emerging trends relevant to the Foundation's strategic framework, operational initiatives, and areas of work.

Practical implications

The paper suggests a closer interaction of foresight and development experts and practitioners by suggesting that individuals in both disciplines need to work more closely together to coherently address the multitude, interlocking global challenges of the 21st century.

Originality/value

The paper introduces the notion of “smart globalization” to the foresight community and details how this mindset has influenced and directed the ongoing work of the Rockefeller Foundation.
Conclusion: “Foresight for smart globalization” synthesis statement and recommendations
Authors: Bezold Clement , Juech Claudia , Michelson Evan S.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conclude the special issue on the topic of pro‐poor foresight.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a draft synthesis statement and selected recommendations to emerge from the “Foresight for smart globalization” workshop.

Findings

There is a need for change at all levels of governance to address the challenges of global poverty, and efforts are needed to foster and improve national foresight capacities.

Originality/value

Adding poverty as an explicit dimension of existing and future foresight activities is a key component of fostering pro‐poor decision making.
The application situation and determinants of postponement
Authors: Huang Yu‐Ying , Li Shyh‐Jane
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The concept of postponement has been developed over many years. Past empirical research has been conducted almost entirely in Western countries. This paper aims to investigate the current status of postponement applications in Greater China (including Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan) to ascertain the effects of some determinants (i.e. environmental uncertainty, production techniques, and information system (IS) maturity) on postponement application.

Design/methodology/approach

A field survey of big manufacturers of electronic/information technology, clothing, and electric appliances is conducted. A total of 106 usable responses are received from 411 surveys yielding a satisfactory response rate of 25.8 percent.

Findings

The result indicates that the number of applications of postponement in Greater China is growing and the incidence of postponement applications is higher than in the Western countries. Environmental uncertainty, production techniques, and ISs maturity have have positive effects on applications of postponement techniques. Some specific postponement strategies for the three industries studied are noted.

Originality/value

From an exploratory perspective, the findings present in this paper may be useful in the sense that they give a broad and general picture of the current situation of the use of postponement in certain industries in Greater China.
Information sharing versus order aggregation strategies in supply chains
Authors: Schmidt Roman
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how differently aggregated order data may affect inventories and service levels in a serial supply chain and compares the results against various levels of information sharing. By performing sensitivity analysis, critical parameters are identified and conjectures for explaining the divergent results on the value of information sharing in prior literature are given.

Design/methodology/approach

By using discrete event simulation, the paper analyses various approaches of differently aggregated order data compared to shared demand information.

Findings

The experiments show that suppliers cannot accurately estimate demand means and variances because of time‐depending order quantities and biasing effects of order inter‐arrival times. This may lead to inappropriate computations of reorder points and safety stocks. The aggregation of order data can improve the calculations resulting in lower inventories with almost identical service levels. The mean inventory can also be reduced by sharing information but may lead to considerably lower service levels.

Research limitations/implications

As discovered in this paper, simplifications in the supply chain structure may have large effects on the experimental results. Therefore, the value of information sharing and order aggregation strategies should be analyzed in a more complex supply chain network.

Practical implications

Some ordering mechanisms have the effect of increasing the demand variance for upstream companies. This amplification may lead to inefficiencies throughout the entire supply chain. The paper proposes solutions to managers on how they can benefit from order data aggregation and information sharing. The per period variances may be reduced leading to smaller safety stocks and lower costs for the entire supply chain.

Originality/value

The paper shows that the performance of a supply chain may be improved by aggregating order data and compares the results with improvements derived from information sharing strategies.
Enabling lean procurement: a consolidation model for small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Wilson Mark M.J. , Roy Ram N.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Gaining access to the cost savings and production efficiencies derived from lowering inventories in the supply chain is as vital for small‐to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) as they are for larger manufacturing firms. Lean procurement as a concept has been advanced as a method for achieving this. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a method of addressing some of the critical barriers to implementing lean procurement methodologies in an SME environment through the application of procurement consolidation techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

First the relevant theoretical and practitioner literature is reviewed, a theoretical consolidation model is developed, and a worked example is presented.

Findings

The barriers face by SMEs trying to implement a lean procurement philosophy are significant. Low volumes, small lot sizes and high frequency purchases incur significant additional distribution costs. The paper argues that the use of a double freight consolidation model (DFCM) is useful to SMEs for maximising the trade‐offs between volume and frequency in an international supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

Whilst this research suggests that SMEs can indeed use the DFCM for lean procurement, the next step is to apply the model in practice.

Originality/value

This paper synthesises consolidation modelling and lean procurement principles. This synthesis is further enhanced by applying a simulated example to the challenging SME environment. The application of the categorisation of both buyers and vendors to the consolidation model is novel.
Case study of processing firm‐distributor firm outsourcing alliance
Authors: Bhaskaran Suku , Jenkins Helen
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss a distribution outsourcing alliance between a small‐to‐medium scale food processor and a national distributor of frozen and chilled food products. The paper discusses the influence of market dynamics, core and differentiated competencies and strategic intents on alliance formation and operations in the small‐to‐medium scale food enterprise sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The dyadic relationship of a small‐to‐medium scale food processor and its distributor is investigated through reviewing past studies of processor‐distributor alliances, conducting in‐depth face‐to‐face interviews with senior managers in both firms, and reviewing documents and correspondence between the firms.

Findings

The partners do not complement their core and differentiate competencies to achieve greater customer value creation through a joint enterprise business model. The alliance focuses pre‐eminently on short‐term sales development and cost savings targets. Non‐achievement of these targets adversely influences partners' trust and commitment to the alliance. A significant strength of the alliance is its capacity to identify customer needs and use this knowledge to speedily develop and introduce new products. In its present form this alliance is unsustainable. The partners should adopt a new philosophy and vision to pursue an alliance that will use their core and differentiated competencies more effectively.

Research limitations/implications

To generalise the findings and inform theory building, the research has to be replicated in other businesses and market environments. The findings are specific to the market environment and strategies of a single small‐to‐medium scale food processor and a single national distributor of frozen and chilled foods. Multi‐case studies in multi‐contexts (capturing varying sizes of business, industry sectors, target market segments, competitive environments and market environments) have to be completed to enable generalisation and theory building.

Practical implications

This paper demonstrates the disadvantages of pursuing distribution outsourcing alliances with a short‐term and enterprise level perspective. The case study provides real life evidence of the benefits of pursuing distribution outsourcing alliances based on a joint enterprise philosophy.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to knowledge on distribution outsourcing alliances, a topic that several recent studies have identified as not having been explored in great detail in extant supply chain studies.
Understanding the factors affecting e‐business adoption and impact on logistics processes
Authors: Matopoulos Aristides , Vlachopoulou Maro , Manthou Vicky
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conceptualize e‐business adoption and to generate understanding of the range of factors affecting the adoption process. The paper also aims at exploring the perceived impact of e‐business adoption on logistics‐related processes.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study research, by conducting in‐depth interviews in eight companies.

Findings

E‐business adoption is not exclusively a matter of resources. Increased e‐business adoption and impact are caused by increased operational compatibility, as well as increased levels of collaboration. In terms of e‐business impact this mainly refers to cycle time reductions and quality improvements, rather than direct cost reductions as reported by other authors.

Research limitations/implications

The intrinsic weakness of the research method and the way concepts are operationalized limits the ability to generalize findings.

Practical implications

Managers should emphasize developing their relationships with their suppliers/customers, in an effort to do common e‐business investments, and should aim to increase their partners' commitment to the use of these applications.

Originality/value

This paper provides empirical evidence from a sector where limited research efforts have taken place. Explanations can be helpful to other researchers involved in the understanding of the adoption of e‐business and its impact.
The MobiCert project
Authors: Lu Nhiem , Swatman Paula M.C.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of the MobiCert project, which utilises mobile commerce technology to enhance information access and provision for organic primary producers, so as to improve their integration into the grocery supply chain. This paper is a precursor to developing a mobile solution for both conventional and organic primary producers across Australia and potentially other countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The rapid appraisal research approach is selected for this research paper as it is particularly suited for gathering fast, rich and deep data in rural and remote areas.

Findings

This paper discusses the development of a mobile information community prototype for organic primary producers in rural South Australia which provides information access and data gathering functionalities through the use of a PDA/Smart phone. The Rural Area Technology Acceptance and Diffusion of Innovation Model is developed to investigate acceptance of mobile technology and the likely diffusion of this innovation in rural areas. It offers a theoretical underpinning for the project, and illustrates how this paper contributes to the management/marketing literature.

Originality/value

This research project is of considerable value for primary producers in rural and remote areas, because it enables and enhances their access to and provision of information – a critical factor for timely and effective access to the grocery supply chain.
What is the value of eGovernment – and how can we actually realize it?
Authors: Skiftenes Flak Leif , Dertz Willy , Jansen Arild , Krogstie John , Spjelkavik Ingrid , Ølnes Svein
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to promote academic discourse around the understanding of the concept of value of eGovernment and how a diverse set of benefits or values can be realized from eGovernment efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is designed as a viewpoint paper with emphasis on grounding a set of arguments on current practice and relevant scholarly papers.

Findings

Although not based on a formal, structured review, the paper proposes that the concept of value in relation to eGovernment is insufficiently discussed and defined in the eGovernment literature. Based on the high failure rates of eGovernment efforts, it further proposes that structured approaches to benefits realization, in combination with increased focus on (public) value, can be fruitful avenues for future research. The complexity of the context and the research challenges makes interdisciplinary research teams a necessity.

Originality/value

If addressed, the research propositions can lead to an increased understanding of the complexity of the concept of value related to eGovernment. Further, the propositions promote research that can lead to more pertinent documentation of the actual value of various eGovernment efforts as well as research of good practice on how government organizations can increase their opportunities to maximize value from their eGovernment spendings.
Value generation in e‐government from service‐based IT integration
Authors: Virili Francesco , Sorrentino Maddalena
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Understanding how value is actually generated in e‐government projects is one of the most challenging, and relevant, issues in e‐government research. This paper aims to investigate the contribution of service‐based information technology (IT) integration for generating value in the public sector, proposing a theoretical framework based on the theory of IT conversion effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper illustrates this novel approach to electronic government evaluation with an exploratory case study of a service‐based IT integration project developed by the City of Genoa, showing how and why IT integration can substantially contribute to value generation in the public sector.

Findings

Contrarily to what one would expect according to the original theory of IT conversion effectiveness, value generation may happen even with no substantial growth in the pre‐existing IT asset portfolio. In fact, what is truly important is not only the availability of IT assets (policy output), but also their proper use (policy outcome) and their final effects on policy takers (policy impact). The case study shows how a low‐cost and small IT integration project based on agile information system development practices can significantly leverage the legacy systems, enhancing the overall degree of IT conversion effectiveness (first stage), with expected positive effects on policy outcomes (second stage) and policy impacts (third stage). The enabling effect of the web services technology has a central role in the overall value generation process.

Originality/value

While addressing a literature void in the context of public sector, this theoretical approach is substantial as it can be used to evaluate and maximize the value generated by e‐government projects, with a special focus on service‐based IT integration projects.
Simulating information exchanges to investigate the utility of public health web sites
Authors: Alkayid Kholoud , Hasan Helen , Meloche Joseph A.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present research into the area of internet support for professional‐public communication through a deeper understanding of the role that a web site can provide in meeting the information needs of critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs). The communication between clinicians and members of the patient's family in the stressful ICU is modelled to give an integrated view of the situation and thereby allow for the incorporation of the views of all stakeholders on how the internet can meet this communication need.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a broad, holistic, systemic approach that integrates the latest information and communications technology tools and processes with rich qualitative data from all stakeholder groups. The data are interpreted through the use of system dynamic modelling to visually conceptualise information flows and communication between clinicians and family members of patients.

Findings

The paper conceptualises, visualises and simulates the communication that takes place in complex stressful settings, such as, in ICUs thereby increasing the understanding of web‐support for professional‐public communication in the complex area of healthcare.

Research limitations/implications

The broad approach of the paper has sacrificed, detailed and in depth analysis of all aspects of this issue which would require a much more extensive study.

Practical implications

The results have been of practical value to those developing a particular ICU web site and thus could inform others.

Originality/value

In addition to the findings, this paper is innovative in the way systems dynamics is used to model information flows. The results demonstrate the value of this technique for visualising and manipulating entire systems of this kind.