bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International integration: a hope for a greener China?
Authors: Yin Haitao , Ma Chunbo
Published: May 2009

Purpose

In recent years, “trade up” argument has gained momentum. It argues that international integration can benefit developing countries' environments by fostering the adoption of voluntary environmental standards, such as International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification. Based on this argument, a social marketing program that encourages greenness among buyers, especially downstream industrial buyers (for example, auto industry) in developed countries could motivate firms in developing countries go green. The purpose of this paper is to provide an investigation on whether “trade up” is a real hope, and what is required to make it real.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical modeling and case studies.

Findings

This paper finds that international trade does gear up the adoption of ISO 14001 standards in China through increasing pressures from international green customers. However, our analyses suggest that the adoption of ISO 14001 certification does not necessarily improve firms' compliance with existing environmental regulations in China. The actual impact depends on how stringently environmental agency carries out inspections. We also find that in China, ISO 14001 certification motivates little, if any, environmental performance improvement beyond bottom‐line environmental regulations.

Research limitations/implications

This finding suggests that the “trade up” argument as well as a social marketing strategy targeting international buyers (including downstream industries) need to be scrutinized carefully before being used to guide practice.

Originality/value

Few efforts have been made to explore the actual impacts of ISO 14001 certification in developing countries. This paper fills this gap. It provides empirical support for Andreasen's argument that social marketing should be applied more broadly to achieve the desired impacts.
Fostering organizational performance
Authors: Molina Carlos , Callahan Jamie L.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the connections between individual learning, intrapreneurship, and organizational learning to create an alternative model of how learning facilitates performance in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper selecting targeted scholarly works that provide support for the proposed model.

Findings

The paper presents a model of intrapreneurial learning and performance in which the constructs of environment, individual learning, intrapreneurship, and organizational learning influence organizational performance. Intrapreneurship is a relatively recent area of exploration in which scholarly efforts have primarily focused on identifying the construct and distinguishing it from entrepreneurship. The proposed model of intrapreneurial learning and performance joins a growing number of works that explore how intrapreneurship contributes to organizational performance. It is suggested that the framework may help scholars identify potential strategies of learning that could help organizations position intrapreneurship as a vehicle for improving organizational performance.

Originality/value

The paper postulates an original relationship among individual learning, intrapreneurship, organizational learning, environment, and organizational performance. In this framework, individual and organizational learning combine to offer a unique perspective on the link between intrapreneurship and organizational performance.
A review of HR practices in knowledge‐intensive firms and MNEs: 2000‐2006
Authors: Majeed Zahid
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to show the association which exists among the wide range of knowledge management, knowledge sharing and HRM practices in the knowledge‐intensive firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed literature review includes the systematic process of research in the following manner; after identifying the main area of interest, key concepts and words were selected, parameters were set to ensure selection of good quality journals, and availability of articles in full text was also considered.

Findings

The study finds that one must keep in view the variable personnel demands and extensive training and development needs of knowledge workers, and highlights the need for attention to be paid to unique scientific practices for managing gold‐collar workers in knowledge‐intensive firms.

Research limitations/implications

The need for further empirical, cross‐case, cross‐cultural and longitudinal studies is highlighted to explore the dimensions of HR practices for managing gold‐collar workers in KIFs.

Originality/value

Perception of gold‐collar workers with reference to the relationship with top managers is discussed through the 30 articles published over the period 2000 to 2006. To manage KIFs, the creation of an original focus on people issues is highlighted. With the help of Chenail's qualitative matrix, the study thematically analyzes the HR antecedents that emerged into four distinctive categories.
Creating the social foundations for apprenticeship in Ireland
Authors: Nyhan Barry
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss Ireland's national apprenticeship programme, introduced in 1993, in the context of the country's evolving economic and social policies.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical analysis is undertaken of the industrial climate in Ireland, which prevented the introduction of a national apprenticeship programme, until 1993.

Findings

The paper argues that the main factor for the successful implementation of this programme in 1993 was the emergence of a new climate of cooperation among the social partners providing the institutional foundations for the programme. This cooperation was a result of the 1991 ground‐breaking “social partnership” agreement between employers, trade unions and government, in signing up to a joint national framework programme.

Research limitations/implications

The paper only briefly looks at earlier efforts – from the 1960s onwards – to introduce a well‐functioning programme, which are seen as a learning period, underpinning the breakthrough of the 1990s.

Practical implications

In acknowledging the success of the programme, the paper asks whether this success can be built on further. This could be achieved through increasing the number of apprenticeships, through enlarging the apprenticeship regulatory framework. This could then have a knock‐on effect on employment generation and skill development as, for example, has happened in Australia.

Originality/value

The paper shows that, despite comments about Ireland being institutionally unsuited for apprenticeship – owing to the lack of an industrial cultural tradition of cooperation, it did, in fact, create an industrial cultural climate to provide the social foundations for a well‐functioning programme.
Improved grey‐Markov chain algorithm for forecasting
Authors: Zhijun Li , Weiwei Wang , Mian‐yun Chen
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a method to accurately forecast the tendency of the gross amount of energy sources consumption of the country and construct a new kind of algorithm for forecasting that synthesizes the advantages of the grey model, Markov chains, and least square method.

Design/methodology/approach

With the application of this new algorithm, this paper have forecasted the trend of the gross amount of energy sources consumption of the country and come to the conclusions that the new algorithm is more precise than the grey model. It is proved that the improved grey‐Markov chain algorithm is effective and can be used by authorities to make decision.

Findings

It was found that combining the grey model, Markov chains, and least square method, can be a new algorithm for forecasting the trendency of the gross amount of energy sources consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The new algorithm is only suitable for the short‐term forecast.

Originality/value

The grey forecasting method reflects the overall tendency of primitive data sequence of the gross amount of energy source, and the Markov chain forecasting method reflects the effect of the random fluctuation. The least square method reflects the tendency of increase. The new algorithm is more precise than the grey model.
A computational method of system reliability of a successful product based on a simulated test
Authors: Liu Dongqing , Zheng Bo , Yan Pengcheng
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to put forward a method which uses a computer to make a large number of simulated tests and determine the reference value of a system reliability index according to a unit reliability index.

Design/methodology/approach

At the beginning of conducting an index demonstration and development on a new system, its unit reliability index can already reflect the unit reliability level accurately. Based on this characteristic, this index is used as the confidence lower limit of single side estimated in the unit reliability interval to find the failure distribution law of the unit. On this basis, a great number of simulated tests are made by a computer to calculate the unit failure number and reliability point estimated value every test.

Findings

The confidence lower limit of single side estimated in the system reliability interval is found by counting up the simulated test data of these units.

Research limitations/implications

Availability of data is the main limitation regarding which model will be applied.

Practical implications

A useful advice for system reliability analysis and calculation.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new approach of system reliability analysis.
An interactive algorithm for deciding multi‐criteria weights in incomplete information environment
Authors: Guo‐shan Liu , Yu‐hong He
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Multi‐criteria decision making exists in the daily lives with broad application backgrounds. Sometimes because of incomplete information, the weights can only be estimated subjectively, which leads to an unsatisfactory result. The purpose of this paper is to describe an interactive technique to decide multi‐criteria weights by multiple decision makers in the condition of incomplete information by means of virtual environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure assumed a problem with n criteria and r decision makers. The algorithms employed are presented.

Findings

It was found that the proposed framework is an effective weight‐deciding tool; the procedure quickly locates excellent compromise weights in a series of test problems.

Originality/value

The methodology helps decision makers determine a most preferred final solution by the virtual environment especially when there is incomplete information. The procedures provide a mechanism to guide the decision makers towards an acceptable compromise solution, without requiring excessive decision maker input. Studies show that the procedure performs well in terms of solution quality, simplicity, computational requirements, convergence and flexibility.
Prediction of the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor suspended particulate matter
Authors: Liu Hongli , Li Changxi , Li Li
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish mass balance model and predict the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor suspended particulate matters (SPM).

Design/methodology/approach

Taking the small offices and residences for a research objective, this paper analyzes the major factors to affect the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor SPM, founds the deposition ratio model, the penetration factor model and the mass balance model to predict the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor SPM. According to the real‐time measuring data, the feature of building defence structure and the concentration and diameter distribution of outdoor SPM, the deposition model, the penetration model and indoor air capacity are used as input parameter of the mass balance model.

Findings

The size of defence in natural ventilation, the pressure difference of both sides and the friction velocity have less influence on the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor SPM, but the concentration and diameter distribution of outdoor SPM mainly affects that of indoor SPM. Indoor particle concentration change with outdoor particle concentration, and less than later because of indoor particle deposition. The prediction results are basically in agreement with the measuring data.

Research limitations/implications

Real‐time and accuracy of measuring data of outdoor SPM are the main limitations which the prediction model are simulated.

Practical implications

The prediction results can provide scientific theory basis for making environmental standards of particulate matter and the control of indoor air quality.

Originality/value

A new method to predict the concentration and diameter distribution of indoor SPM.
China's population projections based on GM(1,1) metabolic model
Authors: Caimei Lu , Yonghong Hao , Xuemeng Wang
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply grey system theory to population system and project China's population.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies the GM(1,1) model to China's population projections. Two key aspects of the method are crucial for obtaining best accuracy of prediction. They are the choice of the length for the original data to be used in the model and the adoption of the GM(1,1) metabolic model in prediction. The former determines what initial data to be used while the latter describes an iteration process on how to proceed to predict.

Findings

The results show that in 2015 China's population will reach 1.37 billion and in 2050 it will be between 1.42 and 1.48 billion, which is in accordance with the latest projections from the UN. The findings show the GM(1,1) metabolic model is an effective mathematical means in population projections.

Research limitations/implications

The paper suggests that GM(1,1) metabolic model can provide an effective simulation model for complicated systems with uncertainty and can be used in many fields.

Practical implications

The paper provides useful advice for the department of population.

Originality/value

Most population projections have been based on assumptions about fertility, mortality, and migration. The paper considers the population system as a grey system and introduces the GM(1,1) metabolic model to population projections.
Sliding mode control for uncertain neutral system with time‐delays
Authors: Shao‐cheng Qu , mei‐jing Gong , yong‐ji Wang
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find an appropriate sliding mode control strategy for neutral systems with time‐delays in the presence of unmatched parameter uncertainties and external disturbance.

Design/methodology/approach

Owing to the complexity of uncertain neutral time‐delay systems, some conclusions for system stability and stabilization are complicated non‐linear matrix inequality (NLMI). Through virtual state feedback control, a sliding mode controller is designed to guarantee state trajectories from any initial condition are attracted to the sliding mode plane in a finite time and remain there for all subsequent time, which can avoid the complicated NLMI. Furthermore, a delay‐independent sufficient condition for the design of robust stable sliding mode plane is obtained in term of LMI.

Findings

The sliding mode controller for uncertain neutral time‐delay systems is designed and a delay‐independent sufficient condition for the design of robust stable sliding mode plane is obtained.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitations are that external disturbance must meet matched condition.

Practical implications

A useful control strategy for uncertain neutral systems with time‐delays.

Originality/value

The virtual state feedback control is designed so to avoid the complicated NLMI.
Study on track prediction of air target based on grey system model
Authors: Shen Mao‐xing , Xie Yao , Xue Xi‐feng , Tian Xin‐hua
Published: May 2009

Purpose

In order to find a more accurate prediction method for the track of an aerial target, this paper aims to establish a track prediction model by the theory of grey system based some track data of the target.

Design/methodology/approach

Aimed at the purpose, the authors have modified a model GM(1,1) with corrected residual error had presented in the literature, but it modeling the data with initial condition by the first data x(1), it is better to use the new information for the prediction, this means that the authors can use the last date x(n) as the initial conditions to modeling the track of air target to build a new model.

Findings

A modified model GM(1,1) with corrected residual error and initial conditions data x(n) is presented in this paper. The example demonstrates that the model is good fit for the prediction of the target tracks, especially for the case of that difficult to get accurate and reliable data when the data are limited.

Research limitations/implications

And the presented GM model can set up online to improve prediction precision. Further research is a need to do for actual engineering application although the example demonstrates that the model is good fit for the prediction of the target tracks as the tag pointed out. When the target is moving in a uniform velocity along a line, the GM prediction has a good accuracy due to the orderliness of the data.

Practical implications

As the example, here data are given in the case of variable accelerate for this is more fit the factual applications. The precision of GM(1,1) could be enhanced with the boundary condition at the terminus, and so much as the residual error revising could be omitted.

Originality/value

The modified model effectually improved the veracity of track prediction of an aerial target. It is shown that the grey forecasting model can be used in the prediction of an air target tracks at least. Combining some other techniques could gain some further results.
Three‐dimensional sequential uniform design
Authors: Wang Guizhi , Zhao Jing , Chen Jibo
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend two‐dimensional sequential uniform design and present three‐dimensional sequential uniform design which can optimize the problem of determining the extreme value of three‐factor polynomial.

Design/methodology/approach

Since there are limitations in two‐dimensional sequential uniform design, three‐dimensional sequential uniform design introduced in this paper is to arrange the experimental points by U9(93) uniform design table and to determine the maximum of the experimental values according to the demand. It is proven that the convergence of the experimental central point's sequence and that it can optimize the problem of determining the extreme value of no‐cross term quadratic polynomial monotone function class and the corresponding conditions are also proven. Taking the no‐cross term quadratic polynomial monotone function as an example, the superiority of it is testified.

Findings

Three‐dimensional sequential uniform design can optimize the problem of determining the extreme value of three‐factor polynomial. It can get higher precision and better convergence but do fewer experiments than general uniform design.

Practical implications

A very effective method in resolving the problem of selecting optimum on multi‐dimensional space.

Originality/value

A new method of three‐dimensional sequential uniform design which can get higher precision and better convergence is presented.
Model information transmission system
Authors: Villacampa Y. , Sastre‐Vázquez P. , García‐Alonso F. , Reyes J.A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study a theory of systems and their models on the basis of studying the information channels between their elements, meaning that it is a continuation of those studies already carried out on the theory of systems and their models applied to environmental systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The model information transmission system (MITS) can be defined as the theoretical structure that makes it possible to describe the way information is stored and transmitted in a modelling process, and which will be completed in future studies. The basis for a taxonomy of languages is also presented.

Findings

The theoretical structure described will lead to the study of a theory of information from the point of view of the analysis of text systems and models, but analysed within the theoretical structure presented, which includes the study of an information source and an information channel.

Originality/value

These theoretical findings will improve the information channels used up to now for the study and modelling of systems and which are largely described using several computer programmes, as the information generated and transmitted will be studied and analysed in different ways. In this way, the text models and families of text models generated can be analysed by studying and transforming models, particularly by focusing attention on everything inherent to the information contained in the same.
A modification for solving Fredholm‐Hammerstein integral equation by using wavelet basis
Authors: Rabbani Mohsen , Maleknejad Khosrow
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use Alpert wavelet basis and modify the integrand function approximation coefficients to solve Fredholm‐Hammerstein integral equations.

Design/methodology/approach

L2[0, 1] was considered as solution space and the solution was projected to the subspaces of L2[0, 1] with finite dimension so that basis elements of these subspaces were orthonormal.

Findings

In this process, solution of Fredholm‐Hammerstein integral equation is found by solving the generated system of nonlinear equations.

Originality/value

Comparing the method with others shows that this system has less computation. In fact, decreasing of computations result from the modification.
Interval neutrosophic sets and topology
Authors: Gallego Lupiáñez Francisco
Published: May 2009

Purpose

In 2005, Smarandache generalized the Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) to neutrosophic sets (NS), and other researchers introduced the notion of interval neutrosophic set (INSs), which is an instance of NS, and studied various properties. The notion of neutrosophic topology on the non‐standard interval is also due to Smarandache. The purpose of this paper is to study relations between INSs and topology.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates the possible relations between INSs and topology.

Findings

Relations on INSs and neutrosophic topology.

Research limitations/implications

Clearly, the paper is confined to IFSs and NSs.

Practical implications

The main applications are in the mathematical field.

Originality/value

The paper shows original results on fuzzy sets and topology.
Organizational change in risky environments: space activities
Authors: Dos Santos Paulino Victor
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The adaptation perspective dominates the issue of organizational change and assumes that organizational inertia increases organizational mortality. This assumption is inadequate to analyze organizational change in risky activities. The purpose of this paper is to underline the relevance of organizational inertia when organizations face risky environments.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework was built that combines the adaptation and selection perspectives from the evolutionary approach and the high‐reliability organizations literature and apply it to space activities.

Findings

First, it was found that to prevent catastrophic failures, space organizations reproduce routines validated in previous successful programs, which leads to situations of organizational inertia; and second, the opposing perspectives of selection and adaptation become complementary when the author focus on the level of risk faced by organizations.

Research limitations/implications

This paper focuses on space organizations and not more general types of organizations. However, the findings could be generalized to organizations manufacturing complex products and systems.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is based on the new empirical and theoretical frameworks provided to analyze organizational inertia. Organizational inertia may be a satisfying response to environments favoring organizations with high levels of reliability. This new way of viewing inertia would be of value to scholars studying organizations in which errors can have catastrophic consequences.
Corporate headquarters as physical embodiments of organisational change
Authors: van Marrewijk Alfons H.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the interdependency of corporate architecture and organisation cultural change. Corporate headquarters have become symbols of corporate change ambitions to endure cultural value sets. The paper seeks to contribute to the growing interest in the re‐materialization of organisational change.

Design/methodology/approach

The study of spatial setting give rise to new methodological questions. There is a hermeneutic relationship between elements of spatial design and the meaning‐making of their designers and users. The reading of built space and other physical arrangements requires interpretative methods. Methods such as interviewing, observation and participant observation have been used to study three headquarter buildings of a Dutch telecom operator in a longitudinal study (1995‐2007).

Findings

It is argued in the paper that the organisation's spatial position in relation to the Dutch Government buildings is a reflection of the privatisation process. During this change process three symbolic and aesthetic different headquarters have been designed. Each of the headquarters is an embodiment of the change ambitions in the different phases. The building is a physical embodiment of the organisational change history.

Practical implications

The paper stresses the symbolic richness of physical arrangements, artefacts and aesthetic dimensions and the embodiment of cultural change processes. Given the large interest of organisations in architectural design to support organisational change the interdependency, change managers should be included in the architectural design process at an early stage.

Originality/value

Although many scholars ask for a spatial turn in organisation studies, not many empirical studies have been done. This paper tries to fill in this gap.
Electro‐conductive sensors and heating elements based on conductive polymer composites
Authors: Koncar V. , Cochrane C. , Lewandowski M. , Boussu F. , Dufour C.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The need for sensors and actuators is an important issue in the field of smart textiles and garments. Important developments in sensing and heating textile elements consist in using non‐metallic yarns, for instance carbon containing fibres, directly in the textile fabric. Another solution is to use electro‐conductive materials based on conductive polymer composites (CPCs) containing carbon or metallic particles. The purpose of this paper is to describe research based on the use of a carbon black polymer composite to design two electro‐conductive elements: a strain sensor and a textile heating element.

Design/methodology/approach

The composite is applied as a coating consisting of a solvent, a thermoplastic elastomer, and conductive carbon black nanoparticles. In both applications, the integration of the electrical wires for the voltage supply or signal recording is as discreet as possible.

Findings

The CPC materials constitute a well‐adapted solution for textile structures: they are very flexible, and thus do not modify the mechanical characteristics and general properties of the textile structure.

Research limitations/implications

In the case of the heating element, the use of metallic yarns as electrodes makes the final structure a more rigid. This can be improved by choosing other conducting yarns that are more flexible, or by developing knitted structures instead of woven fabrics.

Practical implications

The CPC provide a low cost solution, and the elements are usually designed so as to work with a low voltage supply.

Originality/value

The CPC has been prepared with a solvent process which is especially adapted to flexible materials like textiles. This is original in comparison to the conventional melt‐mixing process usually found in literature.
New bioactive textile dressing materials from dibutyrylchitin
Authors: Schoukens Gustaaf , Kiekens Paul , Krucinska Izabella
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Dibutyrylchitin (DBC) is an ester derivative of a natural polysaccharide – chitin. DBC is obtained by reaction of chitin with butyric anhydride in the presence of a catalyst. The production methods of DBC have been elaborated and optimized. DBC is easily soluble in common organic solvents and has film – and fibre forming properties. Such characteristics allow obtaining classical fibres from the polymer solutions. DBC is also a raw material for manufacturing yarn and for a broad range of textile dressing materials. Fibres with good mechanical properties are obtained by an optimized spinning process from the DBC solutions. The purpose of this paper is to present a further optimization of the mechanical properties of DBC‐fibres and yarns.

Design/methodology/approach

The excellent biomedical properties of the DBC are confirmed by different experimental results which prove that DBC is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer and stimulates regeneration of damaged tissues. Tests of these DBC dressing materials under clinical conditions prove the excellent results of DBC‐based dressing materials for the ordered healing of tissues and wounds. The DBC dressing materials accelerate the healing of the wound and are biodegraded during the healing process. From the clinical tests, it can be clearly observed that the DBC dressing materials are absorbed into the fresh tissue formed during the healing process of the wounds.

Findings

The DBC and DBC‐based dressing materials are good bioactive textile materials for wound healing and for understanding the biological properties of chitin derivatives. The obtained results prove the importance of the O‐substitution of the hydroxyl groups present in chitin, not only for the solubility of the derivatives and the mechanical properties of the produced fibres, but still more important for the biological properties of these ester derivatives of chitin containing butyric acid. This development creates a link between textile products, based on material properties and human health, based on the biological properties of the basic material.

Originality/value

The mechanical properties of DBC are further optimized by blending it with poly(ε‐caprolactone). Good transparent and flexible products, such as films, with a high elongation to break are obtained by blending 10‐20 wt per cent of poly(ε‐caprolactone) with DBC. This creates new possible bioactive applications for DBC or poly(ε‐caprolactone).
The application of microcapsules of PCM in flame resistant non‐woven materials
Authors: Cardoso Isabel , Rocha Gomes Jaime
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The use of organic phase change materials microcapsules (mPCM) has been gaining ground in technical textiles and clothing as a temperature regulating medium and hence a means of keeping the body at a comfortable temperature when wearing impermeable protective clothes. However, for such applications as fire fighter's protective clothes, the standards require that all the material composing the material be fire resistant. The purpose of this paper is to produce a lining containing fire resistant microcapsules of PCM without using flammable binders.

Design/methodology/approach

This work tests other ways of fixing mPCM to the fibres with a lot less binder present. Washfastness is evaluated in SEM photographs and by weight. The thermal effect is evaluated in a prototype plate calorimeter.

Findings

This method is first tested for fixing mPCM but the non‐woven still does not pass the test according to the standard EN532. Microcapsules are alternatively fixed with MF resin, non‐flammable, and by applying flame retardant recipes it is possible for the samples to pass the test.

Research limitations/implications

Since the amount of flame retardant necessary for the mPCM to stand the test, and the resin to thermo fix it is very high, the material becomes unacceptably stiff.

Originality/value

Based on a new approach where reactive microcapsules without any binder are used, it is possible to use a lot less flame retardant and resin, and the material is resistant to the standard EN532. In this standard the material has to resist washing and still be flame retardant.
A methodology of selecting a suitable garment for sports use
Authors: Martínez N. , González J.C. , Rosa D. , Alcántara E.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Choosing the adequate garment for sports practice in adverse weather conditions, either cold or hot, is an aspect of great influence on activity performance. The purpose of this paper is to describe how the Institute of Biomechanics of Valencia has developed a methodology which allows assessing the fit of the garment to the real situation of use by evaluating its influence in the thermoregulatory response of the human body.

Design/methodology/approach

Under controlled environmental conditions and at fixed activity levels, two shirts are tested in the laboratory. Eight subjects performed a test which consisted of six phases of different activity level in two conditions (25°C/50 percent RH and 10°C/60 percent RH). Throughout the test, physiological parameters of the thermal response as well as work load indicators are registered. Skin temperature at three different locations (chest, arm, and thigh), microclimate variables in some areas of subject‐garment interface (in armpit and upper back) and heart rate are measured continuously. Six samples of sweat are also collected regularly from dorsal region during the test to estimate the sweating rate and the loss of salts. Weight loss is also checked before and after performing the test to estimate the dehydration level. Subjects will be asked during the test about humidity and temperature perception on the body as a whole or by different zones. The results allowed measuring a significant influence of the shirt in skin temperature. Therefore, the methodology developed for studying of the user‐product interaction through the assessment of the thermophysiological response and the subjective perception allows recommending the comfort ranges for each piece of garment as well as indicating those work load and environmental conditions for which the influence of garment on user's performance is optimal.

Findings

The user‐product interaction through the assessment of the thermophysiological response and the subjective perception allows recommending the comfort ranges for each piece of garment as well as indicating those work load and environmental conditions for which the influence of garment on user's performance is optimal.

Originality/value

Choosing a suitable garment for sports practice in adverse weather conditions, either cold or hot, is an aspect of great influence on activity performance and this paper presents new results.
Activity‐based pricing: can it be applied in restaurants?
Authors: Raab Carola , Mayer Karl , Shoemaker Stowe , Ng Steve
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate how activity‐based pricing can be applied in a restaurant setting by combining the use of price sensitivity measurement with activity‐based costing.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected at a Hong Kong buffet restaurant, based on guests' price perceptions and the establishment's detailed cost structure. These data are analyzed by using price sensitivity measurement techniques and activity‐based costing methods, separately, and then combined to create an activity‐based pricing analysis of the restaurant's menu.

Findings

The use of activity‐based pricing techniques reveals that, although the guests are relatively price‐insensitive, drastic measures were needed to reduce costs for the restaurant to become profitable. Without the benefit of this study, the restaurant's management would not have been able to see clearly the nature of the challenges that they faced, since a single pricing study, or cost study, would have missed the combined cost and pricing effects that were captured by activity‐based pricing.

Research limitations/implications

Activity‐based pricing is shown to be a powerful technique that can be applied effectively in a restaurant. Utilizing this method allows a restaurant truly to understand both its operating cost structure and the price perceptions of it guests. Since this study involved only a single buffet restaurant, further research should be conducted to confirm that activity‐based pricing can also be applied in other restaurant and hospitality industry settings.

Practical implications

The findings from this study suggest that activity‐based pricing may be a viable way for restaurant managers to gain a better understanding of both their guests' price perceptions and the true cost structure of their restaurants. Use of activity‐based pricing allows restaurant managers to set price levels that cover all operating costs and profits, while still meeting guests' expectations of value.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind in the hospitality literature, since no prior research has applied activity‐based pricing in a hospitality research setting. This study represents an important new addition to the existing body of hospitality cost and pricing literature.
An exploratory study of US lodging properties' organizational practices on employee turnover and retention
Authors: Moncarz Elisa , Zhao Jinlin , Kay Christine
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate US lodging properties’ organizational employee‐retention initiatives and practices, and to examine the impact of those initiatives on employee turnover and retention.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Directory of Hotel & Lodging Companies, a convenient sample group of 24 management companies are selected. A self‐administered mail survey instrument is developed to measure and test organizational initiatives and practices on employee turnover and retention. Using SPSS 16.0, two statistical tests are employed to test study hypotheses. Correlation analysis is used to identify the relationships between predictor and response variables. Likewise, regression analysis is used to examine the relationships between predictor and response variables hypothesizing that the effectiveness of practicing the human resource management organizational initiatives on management and non‐management retention and turnover will differ.

Findings

The findings reveal that Corporate Culture, Hiring and Promotions and Training practices influence non‐management employee retention. At the same time, Hiring and Promotion practices impact management retention, as well. Moreover, Organizational Mission, Goals and Direction, and Employee Recognition, Rewards and Compensation were found to positively reduce non‐management employee turnover.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the study methodology and the relatively low response rate, generalization of the study findings is limited. Future replication studies are recommended.

Practical implications

The findings will equip lodging organizations and industry professionals with the contemporary tools to proactively reduce employee turnover and for maintaining employee retention. This should have a positive impact on workforce productivity.

Originality/value

This study makes a major contribution to the relative influence of the practice of eight study‐defined organizational initiatives on turnover in lodging businesses.
A holistic framework for mCRM – data mining perspective
Authors: Ranjan Jayanthi , Bhatnagar Vishal
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, in order to understand mobile customer relationship management (mCRM) and data mining application in the mCRM, this paper aims to present a conceptualization of mCRM in respect of data mining. Second, the paper also aims to develop the empirically grounded framework of the mCRM from data mining perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical paper is used to gain a conceptual view of mCRM. Semi‐structured interviews and contact methodology is used to form the main data source through which the major concerns and issues of mCRM are identified. This lead to holistic framework of mCRM. The paper followed the paradigm of natural science research on information technology by March and Smith and Hervner et al.

Findings

The framework identified three critical issues that are categorized as customer care information center, data store and data access systems, and mobile services and technology. The paper on various existing literatures in mCRM strategies and data mining leads to the development of the mCRM framework. The applications of methodology in data mining helped in identifying and exploring mCRM processes. The data mining based framework identifies issues related to customer attrition, customer life time value analysis and customer churn analysis while moving towards mCRM.

Originality/value

The suggested framework would serve as a guideline to all mCRM product vendors and will be considered as a structured consistent procedure for applying mCRM using data mining tools and techniques. The paper explored various studies in the area of mCRM and data mining and shed light on emerging issues in mCRM area. The suggested framework would give an organization, product developers, and management thinker's valuable insights on application of data mining tools and techniques in mCRM application.
E‐commerce usage and business performance in the Malaysian tourism sector: empirical analysis
Authors: Intan Salwani Mohamed , Marthandan Govindan , Daud Norzaidi Mohd , Choy Chong Siong
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Based upon the E‐VALUE model developed, this paper aims to investigate the impact of e‐commerce usage on business performance in the tourism sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross‐sectional survey is carried out on 165 Malaysian firms involved in the tourism sector (hotels, resorts, and hospitals engaged in health tourism) through the use of a structured questionnaire.

Findings

The structural equation modeling results indicate that technology competency, firm size, firm scope, web‐technology investment, pressure intensity, and back‐end usage have significant influence on e‐commerce usage. Among these variables, back‐end integration is found to function as a mediator. E‐commerce experience (in years) is found to moderate the relationship between e‐commerce usage and business performance.

Research limitations/implications

The paper focuses on the tourism sector in Malaysia and concentrates only on the management perspective of e‐commerce adoption.

Practical implications

The results provide insights to the Malaysian tourism sector and other organizations of similar structures of how they could improve upon their e‐commerce adoption and/or usage for improved business performance.

Originality/value

This paper is perhaps one of the first to investigate e‐commerce usage in the tourism sector using a comprehensive set of variables through an interactive, comprehensive and multi‐dimensional theoretical model (the E‐VALUE model) in investigating their influences on business performance.
Why do shoppers abandon shopping cart? Perceived waiting time, risk, and transaction inconvenience
Authors: Rajamma Rajasree K. , Paswan Audhesh K. , Hossain Muhammad M.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the factors leading to the consumer's propensity to abandon the shopping cart at the transaction completion stage.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a self‐administered survey distributed through the internet. The sample consisted of consumers who shopped online at least once during the preceding one‐year period.

Findings

The results indicate that perceived transaction inconvenience is the major predictor of shopping cart abandonment. The other predictors are perceived risk and perceived waiting time. Positive relationship was found between perceived transaction inconvenience, perceived risk and propensity to abandon the shopping cart. It was also found that propensity to abandon the shopping cart is negatively associated with the perception of waiting time.

Practical implications

The paper provides transaction completion stage specific guidance to the managers operating in an online environment to prevent shopping cart abandonment at the transaction completion stage. Specifically, the findings suggest that marketers must pay attention to the perception of risk and transaction inconvenience; otherwise they risk losing consumers during the final stage of transaction.

Originality/value

The paper examines the unexplored area of consumer behavior at the final stages of transaction culmination and, hence, is an initial step toward filling that gap.
Consumer perceptions of bundles
Authors: Nguyen Adam , Heeler Roger M. , Buff Cheryl
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test inferred bundle saving versus loss aggregation as explanations of consumer evaluations of bundles. Inferred bundle saving posits that consumer impressions of bundles are anchored in the daily economic reality that collections of goods as bundles are usually marketed at a discount to the same collection not bundled. Loss aggregation theory posits that consumers perceive an aggregation of prices as being less than the sum of its parts because they perceive prices as losses, and losses have a concave value perception; that is a small loss is perceived as large relative to its physical amount.

Design/methodology/approach

Previous research has shown that inferred bundle saving is a plausible alternative to loss aggregation. This research tests the two theories against each other in three experimental studies where they make opposite predictions. A meta‐analysis of the first two studies provides added evidence.

Findings

The predictions of inferred bundle saving were supported over the predictions of the loss aggregation prediction.

Research limitations/implications

Additional experimental studies are recommended to further test the proposed theory and its boundaries.

Practical implications

The presentation of a bundle to consumers sends a powerful message that “here lies a bargain.” In the absence of other information, consumers will form a favorable impression of the offering just because it is a bundle (and therefore must be a good buy). If the bundle is known to be undiscounted, then consumer reaction to the bundle is negative. Firms that offer bundles should ensure that their total message is consistent with savings of cash, or add consumer value through convenience/time saving.

Originality/value

The everyday observation that consumers expect a bundle to equal a saving has been ignored in favor of more complex theories of consumer behavior in many previous studies. The study presents results that favor the simpler theory.