bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards holding transnational corporations responsible for human rights
Authors: Carasco Emily F. , Singh Jang B.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a general review of international efforts to hold transnational corporations (TNCs) responsible for human rights. It tracks the evolution of international conventions related to TNCs and human rights and assesses their effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes and analyzes efforts over the last four decades by the United Nations (UN), the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development, the International Labour Organization and non‐governmental groups to provide guidelines and encourage TNCs to aspire to international standards in human rights.

Findings

The early attempts to regulate TNCs internationally lacked any form of the robust compulsion, systemic monitoring and effective enforcement mechanisms necessary to deal with the magnitude of the global investment arena. However, during the last decade, there has been explicit recognition on the part of the UN that action is necessary and the most recent convention emanating from the UN, theNorms, may evolve into a binding instrument on TNCs.

Originality/value

This paper, by mapping the development of global ethical conventions up to the UNNormson the responsibilities for TNCs and other business enterprises with regards to human rights, informs corporate officers of the state of global discussions on this issue and lays the groundwork for further scholarly analysis of theNormsin the future.
Ethical relativism vs absolutism: research implications
Authors: McDonald Gael
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The constructs of relativism and absolutism have a significant role to play in the development of ethical theory; however, they are commonly simplified in their depictions and are philosophically more complex than we give them credit for. The purpose of this paper is to undertake an in‐depth examination of ethical relativity and ethical absolutism before concluding with a discussion of which research implications warrant further investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive, historical, anthological approach has been taken.

Findings

Ethical relativism is regrettably subject to a proliferation of related terminology and, in many instances with different meanings ascribed to similar terms. In addition, ethical relativity appears to attract different research perspectives that are heavily dependent on their academic origins. A clear distinction needs to be made between ethical and situational relativity. It is suggested that relativism is present in the process of moral justification and that ethical relativism should be analyzed from three levels: the individual level, the role and group level, and the cultural levels. The over‐riding objection to ethical relativism rests on the consequences of accepting relativism, which undermines the existence and strength of global moral standards and the inherent positioning of ethical absolutism. Absolutism does not deny the existence of multiple moral practices evident around the world, but proposes that variations in ethical actions could still be rooted in common universal moral standards based on our requirements as human beings and the necessities of long‐term survival.

Research limitations/implications

The ensuing discussions of relativism and absolutism open up a rich vein of research opportunities and suggest caution is required in regard to research methodologies. From a methodological perspective, care needs to be taken. For example, using hypothetical ethical dilemmas that are often unrelated to a specific industry or cultural setting has resulted in many researchers observing situational relativity rather than true ethical relativity.

Originality/value

This paper specifically examines whether there are differences in underlying and basic moral standards even though similarities in ethical behaviour have been determined, or whether differing ethical actions could, as the absolutists believe, originate from common universal standards despite apparent differences in perceptions and actions across cultures.
A new method of HACCP for hospitality: changing behaviour and proving success
Authors: Taylor Joanne
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to prove the effectiveness of a new method of HACCP for the hospitality industry that was developed, piloted and validated by the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the University of Salford between 2002 and 2005. It is the fifth article in the second Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes issue of the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management presenting a new method of HACCP for the hospitality industry and proof of its utility.

Design/methodology/approach

In 2003, in‐depth narrative interviews, supported by documentary analysis, were carried out in 22 hospitality businesses in Greater Manchester. The new method was implemented in these businesses, and the research method was replicated at six month and three year periods to assess change.

Findings

The findings show notable improvements in food safety knowledge, attitude and behaviour, and a reduction or elimination of all 21 previously identified barriers, as a result of implementing the new method. They also show these are maintained over time with no external pressure or involvement.

Originality/value

Based on the evidence of success provided through this research, the paper shows that the new method has been extended and published as Menu‐Safe, a system for hospitality businesses of all types and sizes. It has also been shortened and developed by the UK FSA into a ready‐to‐use package called Safer Food Better Business (SFBB) for very small hospitality businesses, and implemented nationwide.
B2B eCommerce: an empirical investigation of information exchange and firm performance
Authors: Porterfield Tobin E. , Bailey Joseph P. , Evers Philip T.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance effects of information exchange by observing actual information exchange between industrial trading partners. Information exchange facilitates coordination through sharing both order cycle and enhanced information. Increased exchange may lead to closer relationships with the expectation of improved performance. This study moves away from perceived measures of information exchange and firm performance by integrating two datasets: one capturing historical firm performance and the second capturing electronic information exchange data.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative data of electronic information exchange between firms are observed and compared with operational performance results. Longitudinal regression analyses are conducted using data gathered from an electronically‐mediated industrial exchange network. This unique dataset provides distinct insights into the application and performance outcomes related to information exchange.

Findings

Results show that information characteristics vary by firm and the position of the firm within the supply chain. Manufacturers benefit from exchanging more basic information and from stability in their trading partner portfolio. Retailers enhance performance when there is more turnover in their trading partner portfolio and when information is exchanged reciprocally with suppliers.

Practical implications

Results from this study provide insight into the potential performance outcomes of sharing information within industrial relationships. The study demonstrates how greater information exchange changes the nature of supply chain relationships. Closer supply chain relationships may improve firm performance, but the extent of this varies based on the firm's position within its supply chain. Consequently, firms should consider the strategic implications of the way in which they exchange information with their trading partners.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by identifying and testing specific information characteristics using actual observed exchanges of information between firms. The data set supports the measurement of information exchange between multiple firms and trading partners which allows for testing at a level of granularity beyond existing studies.
Exploring relational asymmetry in supply chains: the retailer's perspective
Authors: Thomas Rodney W. , Esper Terry L.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the phenomenon of asymmetric supply chain relationships and investigate how firms manage these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Using grounded theory methodology, qualitative data was accumulated from experienced supply chain managers. Depth interviews were utilized in order to gain a deeper understanding of asymmetric supply chain relationships.

Findings

Prior research has conceptualized asymmetry as a lack of dyadic balance in a core relationship attribute and has focused on causal effects of asymmetry in relationships. However, this study finds asymmetry is a more complex issue and that there are three distinguishable types of relationship asymmetry.

Research limitations/implications

The types of asymmetry that emerged in this exploratory research potentially have different impacts on supply chain relationships. Therefore, the strong negative connotation associated with existing asymmetry literature may well be because the type of asymmetry that primarily triggers negative relationship impacts were being investigated. However, this paper suggests that some types of asymmetry have positive relational outcomes.

Practical implications

This exploratory paper provides managers with additional insight into a common type of supply chain relationship and suggests that asymmetric relationships should be segmented in order to more effectively manage transaction costs.

Originality/value

The notion that asymmetry is a simple, unidimensional construct is now called into question. According to the findings of this paper, asymmetry is a complex issue and managers employ different strategies to address the potential supply chain relationship performance implications with each type of asymmetry.
Reduced order thermal modeling of data centers via proper orthogonal decomposition: a review
Authors: Samadiani Emad , Joshi Yogendra
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the available reduced order modeling approaches in the literature for predicting the flow and specially temperature fields inside data centers in terms of the involved design parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper begins with a motivation for flow/thermal modeling needs for designing an energy‐efficient thermal management system in data centers. Recent studies on air velocity and temperature field simulations in data centers through computational fluid dynamics/heat transfer (CFD/HT) are reviewed. Meta‐modeling and reduced order modeling are tools to generate accurate and rapid surrogate models for a complex system. These tools, with a focus on low‐dimensional models of turbulent flows are reviewed. Reduced order modeling techniques based on turbulent coherent structures identification, in particular the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) are explained and reviewed in more details. Then, the available approaches for rapid thermal modeling of data centers are reviewed. Finally, recent studies on generating POD‐based reduced order thermal models of data centers are reviewed and representative results are presented and compared for a case study.

Findings

It is concluded that low‐dimensional models are needed in order to predict the multi‐parameter dependent thermal behavior of data centers accurately and rapidly for design and control purposes. POD‐based techniques have shown great approximation for multi‐parameter thermal modeling of data centers. It is believed that wavelet‐based techniques due to the their ability to separate between coherent and incoherent structures – something that POD cannot do – can be considered as new promising tools for reduced order thermal modeling of complex electronic systems such as data centers

Originality/value

The paper reviews different numerical methods and provides the reader with some insight for reduced order thermal modeling of complex convective systems such as data centers.
Sustainable neighbourhood earthquake emergency planning in megacities
Authors: Izadkhah Yasamin O. , Hosseini Mahmood
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and discuss the main prerequisites which are deemed for successful disaster mitigation activities in megacities by considering various aspects related to disaster risk reduction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a general background with regard to the social and cultural patterns for involving local people to participate in the activities related to awareness raising before, and saving their lives and properties after the earthquakes. It then defines what is required for preparing disaster scenarios.

Findings

Prerequisites of comprehensive response plans, to be used in the aftermath of earthquakes in large cities, are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

There is a lack of complete information, with regard to various social, and cultural aspects of disaster mitigation, in developing countries, such as Iran.

Practical implications

By following the steps mentioned and discussed in the paper for disaster mitigation planning and applying the proposed measures, the neighbourhoods in megacities can define and manage the activities better – which is crucial for saving lives in the aftermath of large earthquakes.

Originality/value

The paper details the requirements that are necessary for successful disaster mitigation activities in large cities and the difficulties and challenges which can be faced in encountering them.
Disaster management strategy for potential slide zones of Kumarkhera in Narendra Nagar township of Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Uniyal Aniruddha
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Kumarkhera in Narendra Nagar township of Lesser Himalaya (Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand in India) is showing signs of an impending disaster. The potential mass wastage zone may take toll of human lives in the near future and cause damage to residential and commercial area and infrastructure, namely road, telephone and electric lines and water supply lines. This paper aims to document the strategy for managing this potential disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

Study of satellite images and field investigations were carried out in order to probe the possibility of potential landslides in the near future and to find out the risk enhancing anthropogenic activities. Furthermore, the elements at risk were also assessed in order to evolve a disaster management strategy.

Findings

It is suggested that a series of prevention and mitigation measures (both structural and non‐structural) with the involvement of the local community are required to avoid an impending disaster in the study area.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the need for reading the signs of landslides and identifying the elements at risk and also calls for timely initiatives, including structural and non‐structural mitigation measures, so that the impact of the disaster can be minimized.
Bioengineering techniques of slope stabilization and landslide mitigation
Authors: Singh Ashish Kumar
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Mass movements, especially landslides, are a recurring natural phenomenon and are an integral part of any geological/geomorphological cycle of landform development through sequential development of slopes in any elevated region and especially in young fold mountain chains. The purpose of this paper is to develop and evolve cheap, affordable, environment friendly and ecologically sustainable techniques of landslide disaster management and prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on extensive research and field observations of various landslide management projects over the past decade and includes an intensive review of literature from secondary sources.

Findings

Landslide management aims to facilitate, and as far as possible accelerate the ongoing process of development on a sustainable basis, by preventing (reducing) the loss of lives and property by applying modern science and technology and taking appropriate measures and safety precautions at the right place at the right time. Landslide management, even in the most developed countries, has suffered from lack of adequate financial resources. Bioengineering offers an environment friendly and highly cost and time effective solution to the slope instability problems in mountainous and hilly areas.

Practical implications

The paper aims to initiate and encourage research in the field of landslide management with the viewpoint that green technology is a clean and affordable technology (both financially and ecologically).

Originality/value

The paper shows that bioengineering is highly cost effective and has very high cost‐benefit ratio. Bioengineering techniques when used in combination with civil and social engineering measures reduce the overall cost of landslide mitigation considerably which is the key factor for developing nations. Bioengineering has a very high success rate and is much more sustainable, eco‐friendly and affordable than other available options.
A pilot whole‐school intervention to improve school ethos and reduce substance use
Authors: Bonell Chris , Sorhaindo Annik , Strange Vicki , Wiggins Meg , Allen Elizabeth , Fletcher Adam , Oakley Ann , Bond Lyndal , Flay Brian , Patton George , Rhodes Tim
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Evidence from the USA/Australia suggests whole‐school interventions designed to increase social inclusion/engagement can reduce substance use. Completeness of implementation varies but contextual determinants have not been fully explored. Informed by previous interventions, the paper aims to examine these topics in an English pilot of the Healthy School Ethos intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

This intervention, like previous interventions, balanced standardization of inputs/process (external facilitator, manual, needs‐survey and staff‐training delivered over one year to enable schools to convene action‐teams) with local flexibility regarding actions to improve social inclusion. Evaluation was via a pilot trial comprising: baseline/follow‐up surveys with year‐7 students in two intervention/comparison schools; semi‐structured interviews with staff, students and facilitators; and observations.

Findings

The intervention was delivered as intended with components implemented as in the USA/Australian studies. The external facilitator enabled schools to convene an action‐team involving staff/students. Inputs were feasible and acceptable and enabled similar actions in both schools. Locally determined actions (e.g. peer‐mediators) were generally more feasible/acceptable than pre‐set actions (e.g. modified pastoral care). Implementation was facilitated where it built on aspects of schools' baseline ethos (e.g. a focus on engaging all students, formalized student participation in decisions) and where senior staff led actions. Student awareness of the intervention was high.

Originality/value

Key factors affecting feasibility were: flexibility to allow local innovation, but structure to ensure consistency; intervention aims resonating with at least some aspects of school baseline ethos; and involvement of staff with the capacity to deliver. The intervention should be refined and its health/educational outcomes evaluated.
Professional assistance in implementing school health policies
Authors: Boot Nicole , van Assema Patricia , Hesdahl Bert , de Vries Nanne
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of a school health promotion (SHP) advisor in the implementation of the six steps of the Dutch “Schoolbeat” approach, aimed at establishing health promotion policies and activities in secondary schools.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 80 school board members, and 18 prevention coordinators of 18 schools in the Southern Limburg region in The Netherlands completed a written questionnaire on the implementation of the six steps of the Schoolbeat approach, and on their satisfaction with the practical assistance offered by the SHP advisor in implementing the steps, as well as the advisor's organizational competencies.

Findings

Only one school implemented the Schoolbeat approach completely, and as intended. Schools were generally satisfied with the practical assistance in the process of implementing the Schoolbeat steps and with the organizational competencies of the SHP advisor. Schools which had partly implemented the Schoolbeat steps were more satisfied with the SHP advisor's practical assistance than schools who had not done so at all.

Practical implications

This study showed that the SHP advisor could make a positive contribution to health promotion in schools. Since this role demands new skills, the competencies of health promotion professionals must be further developed.

Originality/value

Structural school health promotion programs and policies are becoming increasingly important in many countries, and not enough is known about the role of health promotion agencies in structuring school health promotion. This paper describes the positive impact of the SHP advisor.
It's not all about video‐conferencing
Authors: Stödberg Ulf , Johan Orre Carl
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to present the issue of e‐learning development in a public university in Bolivia, together with challenges that could support the work of a sustainable development of practice and educational technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the first phase of an interpretative case study. It comprises data sources found in observations, interviews, and documents, which the authors have analysed according to three genre themes associated with e‐learning – people, spaces, and technologies.

Findings

The paper identifies a set of challenges that is aimed at directing further development and research on sustainable e‐learning approaches in developing regions.

Originality/value

The paper offers a practitioner perspective on e‐learning development at a university in a developing country.
Commercialization of the Internet
Authors: Weis Allan H.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This purpose of this paper it to examine the historical forces shaping the new paradigm and the possible directions in which the new commercial Internet might evolve.

Design/methodology/approach

The Internet is undergoing a major paradigm shift. The factors influencing this shift, the commercial models that are emerging, and the resulting constraints that accompany these models are deeply rooted in the history of the Internet.

Findings

The Internet has been the incubator for new network technologies, far surpassing the expectations of worldwide network suppliers. Its growth has been the steepest shortly after new technology has been deployed and new applications executed. Two basic reasons underlie the Internet's success: the Internet satisfies the needs of its users and its technologies were developed by solving real problems.

Originality/value

The Internet is unique, and concepts cannot be readily borrowed from other business situations and applied to the Internet without risking adverse consequences on its effectiveness and utility. The key issues of the commercial Internet's future, such as management of the boundaries between networks, the establishment of an environment that fosters continued rapid technological progress, and the “carrots‐and‐sticks” imposed by the funding sources will be critical factors in its success.
World‐wide web: the information universe
Authors: Berners‐Lee Tim , Cailliau Robert , Groff Jean‐François , Pollermann Bernd
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The World‐Wide Web (W3) initiative is a practical project designed to bring a global information universe into existence using available technology. This paper seeks to describe the aims, data model, and protocols needed to implement the “web” and to compare them with various contemporary systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Since Vannevar Bush's article, men have dreamed of extending their intellect by making their collective knowledge available to each individual by using machines. Computers provide us two practical techniques for human‐knowledge interface. One is hypertext, in which links between pieces of text (or other media) mimic human association of ideas. The other is text retrieval, which allows associations to be deduced from the content of text. The W3ideal world allows both operations and provides access from any browsing platform.

Findings

Various server gateways to other information systems have been produced, and the total amount of information available on the web is becoming very significant, especially since it includes all anonymous FTP archives, WAIS servers, and Gopher servers as well as specific W3servers.

Originality/value

The paper notices that a W3server could provide the functions of each of these servers, and so it looks forward to a single protocol that can be used by the whole community.
NCSA Mosaic: a global hypermedia system
Authors: Andreessen Marc , Bina Eric
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to report on an Internet‐based system for hypermedia information discovery and retrieval and wide‐area distributed asynchronous collaboration designed and built at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA).

Design/methodology/approach

The NCSA is developing Mosaic clients – user‐friendly information browsers – for the three most popular desktop computing environments of the mid‐1990s: the Unix‐based X Window System, the Apple Macintosh, and Microsoft Windows 3.1. This paper primarily discusses the X client, as it has the most advanced functionality of the three at this time.

Findings

The system, called NCSA Mosaic, integrates cleanly into existing Internet protocols, formats, data sources, and environments, and provides powerful new capabilities for using and sharing information across the Internet.

Originality/value

NCSA is making the complete Mosaic system freely available and distributable for all academic and research organizations and purposes.
Social networks in the workplace: the risk and opportunity of Business 2.0
Authors: Burrus Daniel
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to present the opinions of Daniel Burrus, a futurist who has been predicting for decades which technologies would become the driving force of business and economic change, on a new trend called “Business 2.0.” This involves using the new web‐based social networking applications (many of which were originally created for personal use) in a way that fosters innovative teamwork, customer co‐creation of value, collaboration with external partners, and interactive communication between leaders and employees in an efficient way.

Design/methodology/approach

The author describes how social networks created for personal use can be employed to facilitate leadership communications and have peer‐to‐peer features that offer advantages over intranet systems designed for business use.

Findings

By re‐purposing the use of personal social networking technology as a set business tools, companies can increase collaboration, problem solving, and improve communication transparency, all of which are critical to adopting continuous value innovation focused on the customer.

Practical implications

Many sensitive issues need to be thought through, such as what happens when a memo or communication meant for internal view only is widely circulated over the internet.

Originality/value

Innovative companies are beginning to embrace social networking tools as a way to enhance communication, information sharing, and collaboration, thereby allowing them to implement many innovative, even radical, business practices.
A leader's guide to radical management of continuous innovation
Authors: Denning Stephen
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Because traditional hierarchical management is increasingly counterproductive in an environment of rapid change that requires continuous enterprise‐wide innovation, the paper aims to offer a radical alternative approach to management.

Design/methodology/approach

By studying highly effective business practices actually being applied in a variety of industries, the author has identified seven principles of radical management. Implemented together they form a mutually reinforcing system.

Findings

What a few firms have discovered is that there is a revolutionary way of organizing and managing that enables an organization to achieve continuous value innovation.

Practical implications

As one manager explains the system's potential for changing the workplace, “Once you introduce this, it affects everything in the organization – the way you plan, the way you manage, the way you work. Everything is different. It changes the game fundamentally.”

Originality/value

The author introduces a radical system of management, based on seven principles, that supports the goal of continuous enterprise‐wide value innovation.
In this recession's aftermath, CEOs face unique threats and opportunities
Authors: Allio Robert J.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

As the tide of recession recedes, CEOs should consider potential changes in the business environment, make a list of emerging threats and review how firms in other industries have successfully employed new innovation concepts in response. this paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper points to three worrisome trends that CEOs need to watch, and offers some suggestions for finding opportunistic ways to address them.

Findings

In the midst of the doom and gloom of a severe recession, when optimists grab the spotlight by pointing to signs of recovery, the author warns that there is too little attention paid to the pessimists' warnings of persistent low growth or a period of stagnation.

Practical implications

The opportunity initiative for CEOs: establish a formal process that demands continuous innovation in every stage of the value chain.

Originality/value

The paper identifies clear imperatives for the CEO today: learn to manage transparency amid the chaos of the internet; re‐examine assumptions about customer beliefs, values, attitudes, and needs; sweep away the vestiges of your firm's “not invented here” culture; take advantage of willing collaborators among the firm's external virtual community; concentrate on innovation across the entire value chain; and be the disruptor not the disrupted.
Dysfunctional audit behaviour: an exploratory study in Malaysia
Authors: Paino Halil , Ismail Zubaidah , Smith Malcolm
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The quality of the opinion provided by audit firms is an important determinant of their long‐term survival, but audit quality is difficult to gauge, which makes it particularly sensitive to the behaviour of the individuals who carry on audit work. This paper seeks to identify the incidence of dysfunctional audit behaviours and audit quality reduction behaviours, actions taken by an auditor during engagement that reduce evidence‐gathering effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a survey of 244 auditors working in small/medium and big audit firms in Malaysia.

Findings

The paper identifies key variables leading to dysfunctional audit behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is subject to the normal limitations associated with survey research.

Practical implications

The paper provides basic empirical evidence of a potentially serious risk of dysfunctional behaviours that may impair audit quality.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical evidence to address the concerns of the Malaysian regulatory authorities regarding audit quality.
The effects of teamwork on individual learning and perceptions of team performance
Authors: Williams Ethlyn A. , Castro Stephanie L.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

In light of contradictory research findings, the purpose of this paper is to examine the moderating effects of team setting (face‐to‐face or online) on the relationship that team member affect and interaction processes have on individual team source learning, and at the team level on the relationship between group cohesiveness and perceived team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Students enrolled in graduate level organizational behavior classes at a large university in the southeastern United States responded to the survey. The final sample included 79 students in 21 on‐campus teams and 97 students in 26 online teams. All classes surveyed required a detailed team project. Tests of the moderator hypotheses were conducted using hierarchical linear multiple regression.

Findings

Team setting moderated the relationship that member teamwork orientation and member social interaction had on individual team‐source learning; the relationships were stronger in online teams.

Practical implications

The results have implications for teams in a variety of settings since the team composition and nature of the work conducted by student teams are similar to that in Western organizational contexts. To avoid possible conflicts that impede learning and performance in online teams, administrators should ensure that team members are chosen carefully and give members a strong reason for being on the team.

Originality/value

This paper extends the model examined by Williams et al. to include member social interaction and consider the context in which teamwork occurs and its effects on personal learning and team performance.
Improving social welfare chain using optimal planning model
Authors: Adivar Burcu , Atan Tarik , Sevil Oflaç Bengü , Örten Tuğba
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to introduce the concept of social welfare chain and address the challenges in decision making through the development of an optimal planning model for a nongovernmental organization (NGO). The distinctive properties of the social welfare chain and its relationship with the humanitarian relief chain in the context of supply chain management are also discussed. The paper presents a real decision problem and analyzes the managerial impacts of the proposed solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The study of social welfare policy and the review of the humanitarian literature has necessitated the introduction of the social welfare chain. Based on its definition, an optimal facility location distribution model that consolidates the non‐integrated style of logistics functions with a cost minimizing approach is developed. The General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) is used in order to optimize the coal distribution model of an NGO. Data is obtained from an NGO that aims to help vulnerable people through distributing coal and basic food such as rice and sugar.

Findings

Besides laying the foundations of social welfare chain, an analytical tool for decision support systems of the NGOs can be considered as the major finding of the research. Despite the increased number of stages in the proposed network configuration, the optimal solution resulted in significant cost reduction and distribution efficiency due to the availability of temporary distribution center locations at no extra cost. Furthermore, this study brings out the advantages of using intermodal transportation in the distribution process of cost‐sensitive networks.

Practical implications

This paper provides a detailed analysis that contributes to the efficiency and the effectiveness of social welfare chains. Moreover, it represents a cooperation established between university and NGOs.

Originality/value

The planning efforts of nongovernmental organizations targeting at the periodical aids to improve the social welfare level have received little attention in the literature. This paper is the first to propose the concept of “Social Welfare Chain”, at the same time addressing the distribution planning for the NGO.
A portfolio‐based analysis for green supplier management using the analytical network process
Authors: Zhu Qinghua , Dou Yijie , Sarkis Joseph
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the development of a methodology to evaluate suppliers using portfolio analysis based on the analytical network process (ANP) and environmental factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a three‐step process, first by evaluating influence/power and performance scores of suppliers using ANP. They include environmental dimensions in this analysis, then map these suppliers onto a portfolio grid. Recommendations are also made on how to manage suppliers depending on what part of the portfolio they appear based on the scores.

Findings

The technique is useful and versatile. The paper clearly discerns various characteristics of the suppliers and produced recommendations on supplier management for an exemplary case scenario.

Research limitations/implications

The technique was applied for an illustrative example. Validation and application in a real world setting is required. There are many additional opportunities to further integrate other modeling tools into this process.

Practical implications

Managers can use this technique to help them more effectively deal with suppliers. The portfolio is a good tool for operational and strategic management of suppliers.

Originality/value

This tool is the first to apply ANP to supplier portfolio analysis. It is also the first tool to integrate and apply the portfolio supplier management approach to an environmentally oriented decision environment.
Old dogs, new tricks: training mature‐aged manufacturing workers
Authors: Smith Erica , Smith Andrew , Selby Smith Chris
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the employment and training of mature‐aged workers, so that suggestions for improving training for mature‐aged workers may be offered.

Design/methodology/approach

Six expert interviews were carried out by telephone, and three case studies involving company site visits were completed. Each company case study involved interviews with managers, trainers and mature‐aged workers. The study was confined to the manufacturing industry.

Findings

Mature‐aged workers bring many advantages to workplaces and some employers show a definite preference for them over younger workers; but in some cases training needs to take account of lack of confidence and literacy and health issues. However, there is great diversity among mature‐aged workers.

Research limitations/implications

The research is confined to shop‐floor workers in manufacturing, and does not address training of mature‐aged managers and professionals. The research is small‐scale but provides new insights, and importantly the voices of the workers themselves.

Practical implications

The paper identifies managerial and training practices that can immediately be implemented.

Originality/value

The paper identifies some issues that can be taken up at a policy level as well as within companies. For example, the preference for qualification‐based training at a national level is not necessarily consistent with what mature‐aged workers prefer.
Evaluating a training using the “four levels model”
Authors: Steensma Herman , Groeneveld Karin
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The aims of this study are: to present a training evaluation based on the “four levels model”; to demonstrate the value of experimental designs in evaluation studies; and to take a first step in the development of an evidence‐based training program.

Design/methododology/approach

The Kirkpatrick four levels model was used to evaluate the effectiveness of management training. Hypotheses about the effects of internal/external locus of control and experiential learning styles were tested. Measures gathered at several points of time were compared to measures taken from a control group. “Level four” results were obtained by 360‐degree feedback appraisal.

Findings

Trainees' knowledge improved significantly. Trained managers also demonstrated more “good” management behaviors and they scored higher on long‐term results. Trained supervisors with an internal locus of control acquired more knowledge than trained supervisors with an external locus of control. However, internals did not differ significantly from externals on actual behavior measures. The hypothesized relationship between learning style and training effectiveness was not supported. The four levels method gives detailed insights in results. Attention should be paid to trainees' locus of control.

Originality/value

The paper outlines the value of the “four levels model” of training evaluations and contributes to the “theory‐based, evidence‐based” approach to the development of training programs.
Services and economic growth in Pacific Island countries
Authors: Gani Azmat , Clemes Michael D.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an empirical study of the contribution of the services sector to per capita economic growth for Pacific Island countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Within the new growth theory framework, the empirical procedure consisted of the regression analysis of data using the panel data fixed effects procedure.

Findings

The results confirm the positive and statistically significant correlation of services growth to per capita gross domestic product growth.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations largely centre on the use of aggregate cross‐country data. Variations may be found in what actually drives the services growth at the country level. Thus, a country‐specific study would be more appropriate in order to get more robust results. Also, the data do not capture the effect of non‐market services. Disaggregate services data that separate market data services with non‐market services would provide a more accurate picture of the influence of non‐market services.

Practical implications

The practical implication is that that service sectors in the Pacific Island countries ought to be given greater support, for example, investment in physical and institutional infrastructure, market access, financial support, skill development and investment incentives.

Social implications

Pacific Islands services sectors contribute to household welfare through paid employment and meet household demands of service sector output.

Originality/value

This paper presents the first study among the Pacific Island countries that has examined the importance of services sector and its contribution to growth. The findings of this study are useful to Pacific policy makers in terms of improving the services sector through instituting appropriate growth enhancing policies.
Why has Viimsi become the wealthiest community in post‐socialist Estonia?
Authors: Ovaska Tomi , Anderson Robert B.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a qualitative study of economic development attempts to uncover the critical factors behind the recent economic rise of Viimsi, Estonia, to that of the wealthiest community in the country.

Design/methodology/approach

The roles of and interactions among various community stakeholder groups are explored through two sets of resident surveys. From these surveys, and a rich set of secondary material, a narrative emerges as to the factors behind Viimsi's success since 1991, when Estonia regained its independence from the former Soviet Union and its system of economic central planning.

Findings

It was found that among the key components explaining why Viimsi has become the wealthiest community in Estonia are its extraordinary openness in embracing the market system, combined with a consensus‐based plan among community stakeholders on balanced development, a dependable government, and a level of solidarity among fellow residents in facing change.

Originality/value

This paper describes one small community's experience in the global world, and offers observations on successful strategies for a community navigating in it.
Towards full integration: eProcurement implementation stages
Authors: Caniato Federico , Golini Ruggero , Luzzini Davide , Ronchi Stefano
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify different maturity stages of eProcurement adoption. eProcurement (i.e. electronic purchase of indirect goods), is a growing reality and it is spreading among companies. However, even inside a growing trend, no and low adopters can still be found, and those already using eProcurement go through many intermediate levels. According to the literature, there can be many factors influencing eProcurement adoption but clear approaches and maturity stages are still not defined.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a general framework in which eProcurement maturity is measured by three components: level of adoption, technology and organizational objectives. The framework was applied to 13 case studies of information technology purchases of companies in different sectors; thus, indentifying different approaches that have been clustered in three maturity stages.

Findings

First of all, a quite strong relationship is found between eProcurement adoption and technology in place. As far as organizational objectives are concerned, some interesting linkages are found with both the adoption and technological functionalities. These patterns of adoption are grouped into three clusters, named basic, intermediate and advanced.

Practical implications

The results of this paper can be useful for practitioners trying to position a company into a maturity model and verify the coherence of the adoption with the technological and organizational choices.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper lies in a new framework of analysis of the eProcurement strategies that allows the identification of different maturity stages.
International mobile roaming in the Caribbean
Authors: Sutherland Ewan
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine international mobile roaming in the Caribbean.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines first, the question of the number of mobile phones and revenues; then secondly, it examines the background to the roaming issue as it emerged in Europe. Thirdly, it looks at regulatory initiatives in the Americas. Fourthly, it looks at issues related to tourists, including those on cruise ships. Fifthly, it examines commercial initiatives to offer roaming without surcharges. Sixthly, it examines possible regulatory measures to achieve policy goals. Finally, conclusions are drawn and future research topics identified.

Findings

The public policy goals are clear – to ensure competition, to achieve affordable prices and universal access. The challenge is to translate these into specific measures for international mobile roaming.

Originality/value

There appear to be two retail markets, one for IMR as part of a post‐paid mobile service and the other a pre‐paid offer.