bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermediaries driving eco‐innovation in SMEs: a qualitative investigation
Authors: Klewitz Johanna , Zeyen Anica , Hansen Erik G.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the role intermediaries can play in an small to medium‐sized enterprise's (SME's) pursuit for corporate sustainability with a focus on eco‐innovation. The research identifies drivers and barriers for eco‐innovation, and highlights effects induced through collaboration between SMEs and local authorities, on the one hand, and consultancies, on the other.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on an exploratory qualitative interview study among German SMEs of the metal and mechanical engineering industry that have participated in “Ecoprofit”, an intermediary based program that aims at introducing organizations to the concept of sustainable development through implementation of eco‐innovations.

Findings

The key findings are that first, the proactive approach by a public intermediary (here local authority) is one essential push factor to trigger eco‐innovations in SMEs with low absorptive capacity. Second, it is found that SMEs may need facilitation for eco‐innovation from different types of intermediaries (public and private) with different levels of support, which can range from customized and individual to more loosely held support, such as networks.

Originality/value

This study discusses the challenges of corporate sustainability with a focus on eco‐innovations for SMEs and proposes a “complex intermediary” consisting of a local authority and consultancies as one means to engage SMEs in sustainability. Moreover, it focuses on SMEs in the B2B context, organizations that are often overlooked despite their vast impact. Furthermore, by using a single industry approach, in‐depth findings for the metal and mechanical engineering industry are presented.
The influence of green product competitiveness on the success of green product innovation
Authors: Kam‐Sing Wong Stanley
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate the influences of green product innovation and product process innovation on two constructs of green innovation casual chain: green product competitive advantage and green new product success. The impacts of green product competitive advantage as a partial mediator in the link between green product/process innovations and green new product success are also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A model with four constructs is presented and tested on a sample of 203 R&D project leaders of electronics firms operating in China using quantitative methods.

Findings

It is found that green product and process innovations are positively associated with green product competitive advantage and green new product success, and green product competitive advantage partially mediates the relationships between green product/process innovations and green new product success. It is also found that green product innovation exerts a stronger influence on the consequential constructs than green process innovation.

Practical implications

The positive causalities among the constructs suggest that green innovation is more than a branding support. It pays to pursue green innovation. Green product innovation is demonstrated to have a positively stronger influence on both green product competitive advantage and green new product success than green process innovation. The difference in impact signals that when operating under limited resources, green product innovation should be pursued first.

Originality/value

The article addresses the gap in green innovation theory concerning the associations among the key constructs of green innovation causal chain. It is the first green innovation research ever conducted in the e‐industry in China. The causalities identified can be leveraged to improve Chinese e‐industry players’ innovative and competitive capabilities and to encourage them to stay proactive in addressing challenges arising from environmental issues.
Perception of green brand in an emerging innovative market
Authors: Mourad Maha , Serag Eldin Ahmed Yasser
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this empirical research is to study the main factors affecting the green brand preference in the telecom industry in Egypt as an example of an emerging innovative market.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers develop a conceptual framework highlighting the dimensions of the green brand preference focusing on four constructs; green brand image, green satisfaction, green trust, and green awareness. The researchers started with a qualitative exploratory research in order to support the conceptual framework followed with a quantitative research in the form of a survey distributed among 302 respondents.

Findings

The consumers tended to disagree that they are aware of environmental promotions or that they recognize the meaning of environmental slogans and labels for their preferred brand. It was also found that the correlation between green awareness and green brand preference is the weakest. On the other hand; there is a strong correlation and a positive effect of the other factors (green brand image, green awareness and green trust) and green brand preference. The effect of the factors on green brand preference wasn’t significantly different for different genders, while it was significantly different for different ages, income levels and education levels.

Practical implications

The results of this research confirmed what the experts agreed upon during the exploratory phase and gave the researchers more confidence that the first step to start using green marketing principles in Egypt is to enhance the green image, satisfaction and trust as well as educating them on the importance of the green activities.

Originality/value

The research includes conceptual contribution in a trial to develop a conceptual framework to green brand preference in an innovative industry. In addition, there is empirical contribution since according to the researchers knowledge there is not any single paper on green branding strategies in the Egyptian market as an example of an emerging market.
Net neutrality and the value chain for video
Authors: Nooren Pieter , Leurdijk Andra , van Eijk Nico
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Video distribution over the internet leads to heated net‐neutrality related debates between network operators and over‐the‐top application providers. The purpose of this paper is to analyze this debate from a new perspective that takes into account all of the assets that companies try to exploit in the so‐called battle for eyeballs in video distribution.

Design/methodology/approach

The systematic value chain analysis is used to determine the points along the value chain where net neutrality interacts with video distribution. The inputs to the analysis are the existing and proposed policy measures for net neutrality in Europe and in the USA, and a number of net neutrality incidents that have led to discussions earlier.

Findings

The paper finds that the current and proposed policy measures aimed at net neutrality each contribute to a certain extent to their intended effects. However, the analysis also shows that they are likely to lead to new debates in other parts of the value chain, as players try to compensate the loss of influence or revenue streams by rearranging the ways in which they exploit their assets.

Practical implications

Further and new debates are expected in the areas of peering and interconnection, distribution of resources between over‐the‐top and managed services and the role of devices with tightly linked search engines, recommendation systems and app stores.

Originality/value

The new perspectives offered by our value‐chain based analysis are valuable for policy makers who aim to promote net neutrality and simultaneously stimulate competition and innovation throughout the value chain.
Legal framework of online intermediaries' liability in China
Authors: Tao Qian
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The paper aims to outline the legal framework with regards to the civil liability of online intermediaries for users' misconduct in China, to analyze the problems in applying the rules related, and to introduce recent efforts from the State Council, the Supreme People's Court and legislature to combat online misconduct.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper intends to introduce these rules by studying the legislative history and several important case decisions. Comparisons with European and American approaches have also been made with regard to the self‐regulation issue.

Findings

Chinese courts have made many inconsistent decisions on the liabilities of online intermediaries in the past, but the legal framework is improving and the situation will become better given more clarifications from the Supreme People's Court. The State proactively promotes industry self‐regulation, together with public supervision in order to ensure the enforcement of rules.

Research limitations/implications

This paper gives a systematical analysis and thorough introduction to online intermediaries' liability since the first case in 1990s to the latest report, law amendment and provisions before July 2012 in China.

Originality/value

Cyberspace is an international community, thus, the worldwide harmonisation of cyber law shall be approached. An introduction of the Chinese legal framework and any latest updates from the State would be valuable for foreign policy makers and foreign online service providers to learn the Chinese situation and evaluate the Chinese internet market.
Crisis, digitalisation and the future of the internet
Authors: Preston Paschal , Rogers Jim
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The goal of this paper is to explore how an approach upfronting the notion of crisis and related restructuring processes may yield certain strategic stakes and anchor points by which to identify and measure the forms and extent of unfolding changes or innovations broadly understood. One key objective of this exploratory project is to undertake a comparative investigation of the major commonalities and differences between the specific forms, features and manifestations of “crisis” tendencies and counter‐tendencies in two sub‐sectors of mediated “content”: the music industry and the news media industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper engages with issues and concerns relating to these two particular sub‐sectors of the media and cultural industries and considers relevant concepts and indicators of crisis and recent developmental trends in these domains. It introduces the background setting and implications of “crisis” and introduces some distinctive concepts and other aspects of the approach of this exploratory study. It identifies key concepts in research literature surrounding deep economic crises akin to the current crisis and applies and advances initial conceptual frames further in light of manifest developmental trends and relevant indicators of crisis in the two sectors.

Findings

Drawing on recently completed research studies in the music and news media industries by the current authors, the paper highlights differences and specificities across the two media domains under study. This highlights the form, features and extent of some key changes and challenges unfolding in the media sector.

Originality/value

Its upfront engagement with the idea of “crisis” and related concepts of creative destruction, restructuring, multiple innovation and paradigm shifts makes this exploratory project distinctive, as does its efforts to conduct a comparative analysis of the relevant dimensions of “crisis” and restructuring based on the authors' primary research in two distinct sub‐sectors within the media “content” layers.
The syncretism of environmental and social responsibility with business economic performance
Authors: Martinez Fabien
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The present conceptual study aims to discuss the integration of corporate social and environmental responsibility (ESR/CSR) into business strategies and operations. The objective is to propose a conceptual framework for synthesising pragmatic and constructionist theoretical discourses on ESR.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies the concept of syncretism – and inherent objective and subjective perspectives – to the field of ESR/CSR. A review of existing literature unfolds the construct of syncretism as a continuum integrating both systemic/pragmatic narratives and constructionist/ethnographic. The metabolism analogy is further discussed to stress the salience of ESR in determining the prospects for corporate sustainable development.

Findings

The achievement of syncretistic equilibrium is understood to occur at the intersection of constructionist and pragmatic epistemological influences. Existing research suggest that reducing or removing the external cost induced in industrial processes and exploiting marketing opportunities to signal positive ethicality of the firm are possible pathways for syncretistic equilibrium. The metabolism analogy is argued to abound with constructive implications on how businesses can provoke synergistic or symbiotic correlations between ESR and economic sustainability.

Practical implications

By integrating constructionist and pragmatic narratives into one conceptual proposition, it is hoped that this paper can lead to a better understanding of the way societal responsibility appears to business managers and, through that insight, lead to improvement in practice. Examining the extent to which metabolic processes and the functioning of the business system inspire comparable challenges can offer supportive basis for contriving effective ESR integration strategies.

Originality/value

Both constructionist (e.g. individuals’ values) and systemic (e.g. business case for CSR) narratives have received considerable attention form scholars in the field of ESR/CSR, yet they have never been assembled into one conceptual proposition. Syncretism constitutes a new line of thinking for conceptualising the constructionist and pragmatic challenges related to the integration of ESR into business strategies and operations.
Implication of voluntary carbon markets for introducing CSR in the forestry sector of Kazakhstan
Authors: Sabitova Saltanat
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at opportunities for Kazakhstan to participate in voluntary carbon markets by submitting forest protection, afforestation and reforestation projects that can be offered to domestic or foreign participants willing to take corporate social responsibility (CSR) and reduce their anthropogenic impact on the climate system by buying these projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies a qualitative approach which is based on analysis of scientific articles, entity reports, and national legislative framework related to the topic of the research.

Findings

The findings reveal that the issues of CSR, participation in voluntary carbon markets and domestic forestry sector may be integrated if addressed properly. However, Kazakhstan lacks the level of understanding and acceptance of social or environmental responsibilities necessary to engage in CSR practices. In addition, participation of project developers from Kazakhstan in voluntary carbon markets is a subject to the complicated project submission process. Although voluntary carbon markets are not driven by specific regulations and do not require national legal frameworks to enter the voluntary market system, participation may still be a subject to other national legal aspects.

Practical implications

The study shows how CSR actions may bring win‐win situations both for entities’ sustainability reporting which undertake these actions, and for the forestry sector of Kazakhstan. Therefore, a specific strategy should be customized to reflect national circumstances, and which provides assistance for and enhance discussions about CSR, voluntary carbon markets, and their overall contribution to sustainable development.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the aspects of taking CSR in a developing country as Kazakhstan where the concept of CSR still lacks supportive legal and promotional mechanisms. It introduces the possible relation of the voluntary carbon markets to the forestry sector of Kazakhstan.
Trade credit and supply chain delivery in the Ghanaian construction industry
Authors: Badu E. , Edwards D.J. , Owusu‐Manu D.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Trade credit is treated as a financial intermediation device whereby construction vendors act as financial providers to their customers through deferred payments of goods purchased. The purpose of this paper is to investigate and report upon the key factors and motives influencing vendors' decision on trade credit provision to small to medium sized construction firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting deductive methodological approach, this paper utilises a combination of primary data emanating from structured survey questionnaires supplemented by secondary source of data from an extensive literature review, to present insightful commentary about trade credit provision in Ghana. The structured survey questionnaire was administered to 100 construction vendor firms/suppliers to elicit relevant data about their trade credit intentions. Drawing upon the principles of a total design method (TDM) of survey, a relatively high response rate of 57 percent was achieved. Principal component (factor) analysis was adopted to obtain simplification of variables and to detect underlying dimensions and reveal potential complex structures within decision variables.

Findings

The underlying constructs and motives of vendors on trade credit were intricately interwoven in two principal factors: risk distribution and liquidity; and sustaining business relationship and liquidity. Despite the uncharacteristic manifestation of the liquidity measure being associated with the two principal components, the findings demonstrate the relative importance of liquidity in the trade credit debate. A critical observation stemming from the analysis was that trade policy was absent within the trade credit market in Ghana; this poses a potential threat to trade credit exchange and its development.

Originality/value

The paper's methodological approach is uniquely positioned between the conceptual and empirical interface and the overarching research is pioneering within the developing world nation of Ghana. The paper's findings will be useful to contractors, particularly, small and medium size contractors who are considering feasible finance options; and vendors who seek to consolidate their clientele base.
Design and development of agile product development cycle for rotary switches
Authors: Vinodh S. , Selvaraj T. , Praveen T.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conceptualise and develop various phases of agile product development cycle (PDC) for a manufacturing organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on agile manufacturing (AM) has been reviewed. Agile PDC has been conceptualised and the implementation study has been conducted in a rotary switches manufacturing organisation. The various phases of agile PDC have been performed and the inferences have been derived.

Findings

The outcome of this research indicated the power of agile PDC as an enabler of agility in contemporary manufacturing organisations.

Research limitations/implications

The developed PDC has been test implemented in a single manufacturing organization. However, the model could be extended to several organisations.

Practical implications

The various phases of agile PDC have been systematically explored and the practical inferences have been derived.

Originality/value

The conceptualisation and development of various phases of agile PDC is an original contribution of the authors.
Confined site construction
Authors: Spillane John P. , Oyedele Lukumon O. , von Meding Jason
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify, clarify and tabulate the various managerial issues encountered, to aid in the management of the complex health and safety concerns which occur within a confined construction site environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This is achieved through conducting extensive qualitative and qualitative research in the form of case studies, interviews and questionnaire survey.

Findings

The leading managerial issues in the management of health and safety on a confined construction site are found to be: “Difficulty to move materials around site safely”; “Lack of adequate room for the effective handling of materials”; “Difficulty in ensuring site is tidy and all plant and materials are stored safely”; “Close proximity of individuals to operation of large plant and machinery”; and joint fifth “Difficulty in ensuring proper arrangement and collection of waste materials on‐site” along with “Difficulty in controlling hazardous materials and equipment on site”.

Practical implications

The resulting implication for practice of these results can be summarised by identifying that with sustained development of urban centres on a global scale, coupled with the increasing complexity of architectural designs, the majority of on‐site project management professionals are faced with the onerous task of completing often intricate designs within a limited spatial environment, under strict health and safety parameters.

Originality/value

The subsequent value of the findings are such that just as on‐site management professionals successfully identify the various managerial issues highlighted, the successful management of health and safety on a confined construction site is attainable.
Location‐based mobile advertisements and gender targeting
Authors: Banerjee Syagnik (Sy) , Roy Dholakia Ruby
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the differential effects of location‐based mobile advertisements on men and women in work leisure situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted was in a scenario based experimental design in the 2×2×2 ANOVA format. Independent variables included: Type of locations (private/public); Situations (work/leisure); and Gender (male/female). Dependent variables included Perceptions and Behavioural intentions.

Findings

Recent findings often indicate that men are more receptive to location‐based ads (LBA) than women. However, in this paper the authors show that in some circumstances women are more favourable to the same mobile LBAs than men because both women's and men's reactions depend on specific location and task situations.

Practical implications

Based on these findings, managers will be able to better target ads to specific genders in different locations and situations, thus maximizing the relevance of the ads, click through rates and affect cost per thousand impressions.

Originality/value

There has been little research on how men versus women react to LBAs based on their orientation towards different situations at hand. This research illustrates what differences exist in their perceptions of LBA and why.
Transforming e‐democracy for equity and social justice: We Decide
Authors: Singh Gurmit , Walsh Christopher S.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of editorial to this special issue is this to introduce “We Decide”, a grassroots e‐democracy learnscape. This timely collaborative initiative was conceptualized to promote the deployment of internet communication technologies (ICTs) for advancing social justice and equity in an increasingly digitized era. The special issue presents six individually selected papers delivered at the IADIS International Conference e‐democracy, Equity and Social Justice held in Rome, Italy, 20‐22 July 2011. These papers provide examples of unique innovations that highlight new possibilities and directions for e‐democracy that are grounded in an ethos of greater equity and social justice.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors outline the mission and approach of “We Decide” and how it can be understood in the evolution of e‐democracy.

Findings

The authors discuss how the six papers in this special issue suggest ways to transform e‐democracy towards equity and social justice.

Research limitations/implications

These papers help researchers and practitioners extend the concept of e‐democracy from a variety of perspectives, and show the importance of thinking about e‐democracy as access to resources for all citizens.

Originality/value

Given the increasing policy demands for effective e‐democracy and active citizenship online through new and emerging social networking technologies, the knowledge produced by “We Decide” brings together researchers, practitioners and activists from across the world. It provides a robust platform to share innovations that challenge us to rethink and re‐research the core concepts and approaches necessary to transform e‐democracy to realize equity and social justice.
Using history to comprehend the currency of a passionate profession
Authors: Stec Deryk
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the growing popularity of coaching; a concept whose influence increasingly spans academic disciplines and institutional fields.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper makes sense of coaching by using actor network theory, an approach that seeks to understand how a phenomenon becomes macro social. By examining a wide array of historical documents it traces the characteristics that underlie the transformation of the coach from a technological object to a management concept. In doing so it outlines the fundamental characteristics of coaching.

Findings

Specifically coaching involves a post technological nature where performances often occur in extreme conditions that involve the reciprocal interdependence of bodies (teams). These performances may also be viewed as involving impurity, as amateurs who participated purely for the love of the game have usually paid coaches for their services.

Originality/value

While there is no denying the influence of coaching, little attention has been given to the history of this concept. This article provides an example of how the past frequently remains present and offers explanation for the popularity of coaching. In doing so it outlines a potential framework for consistently discussing the concept across organizational forms.
Will GPs “lead” or “govern” the new clinical commissioning groups?
Authors: Storey John , Grint Keith
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to delve into the precise leadership and governance roles required of general practitioners (GPs) in England as they are propelled into clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework which captures the complementary essences of both leadership and governance is developed and then used to assess the extent to which GPs will be undertaking leadership and/or governance roles under the reformed National Health Service (NHS) plan.

Findings

It is found that there are some key particular aspects of both leadership and governance which are likely to be required of GPs as they form clinical commissioning groups. These elements are identified and discussed.

Practical implications

Using this analysis, general practitioners, health service managers and policy makers will be able to make a more informed assessment of the roles that they will have to adopt in the future and those roles which they may find it difficult to play. GPs in future will need to expand their roles in line with new responsibilities. The ways in which, and the success with which, they discharge their new roles will depend crucially on how they, and significant others (NHS managers), understand the nature of leadership and governance.

Originality/value

Most analyses of the new GP commissioning consortia have focused on issues concerning size and structure of commissioning consortia, the risks involved, the population size required, and risk. This article is original in its clear focus on the teasing‐out of the distinct leadership and governance elements required under the GP commissioning arrangements.
From unbalanced to balanced: performance measures in a Vietnamese hospital
Authors: Trong Tuan Luu
Published: September 2012

Purpose

From the data derived from a Vietnamese hospital, this study seeks to discern which organisational culture types, leadership styles, and trust types pave the path for the implementation of the balanced scorecard (BSC) system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a case research approach with a triangulation of data collation methods encompassing access to documents, field observations, and interviews. The in‐depth interviews with 37 hospital members and field observations were conducted during 21 months from March 2009 to November 2010.

Findings

The findings show that features relating to organisational change in terms of organisational culture, leadership style, and trust can impact the success of BSC implementation; nonetheless, the opposite direction can merely be encountered in the relationship between leadership style and BSC implementation.

Originality/value

The study offers insights into a successful model of BSC implementation in the healthcare sector built on such antecedents as organisational culture, leadership, and trust.
Knowledge management model for quality improvement in the hemodialysis unit of a non‐profit private hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Sumet Somsri , Suwannapong Nawarat , Howteerakul Nopporn , Thammarat Chuthipat
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This study seeks to use a knowledge management (KM) model as a tool to improve the quality of service in a hemodialysis unit.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi‐experimental, one group pre‐test‐post‐test study was conducted over a period of ten months at a hemodialysis unit. All of the staff in the unit, and all of the patients who came for hemodialysis at the outpatient department during the study period, were invited to participate. Self‐administered questionnaires were used to measure staff job satisfaction and patient satisfaction. SF‐36v2 was used to assess patient quality of life (QoL). Wilcoxon's matched pairs test and paired t‐test were used to compare staff job satisfaction, and patient satisfaction with service quality, before and after implementing KM. A within‐subject repeated‐measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess changes in patient QoL. The chi‐square test was used to compare rates of hemodialysis complications before and after implementing KM.

Findings

After implementing KM, staff job satisfaction and patient satisfaction with services, increased significantly. Three QoL domains – role limitations due to physical and emotional problems, and vitality – at three and six months post‐intervention applying KM to daily work, had improved significantly. Complications per hemodialysis episode had also reduced.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on intervention that applied KM to staff providing care for patients with hemodialysis to improve care and outcomes.
Determinants of returns on housing: the Iranian case
Authors: Gholipour Fereidouni Hassan , Bazrafshan Ebrahim
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of returns on housing in Iran by analyzing capital appraisals, rents, and total returns.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from 28 provinces of Iran over the period of 2000‐2007. Using generalized method of moments (GMM), the determinants of returns on housing in Iran are investigated.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that in particular changes in inflation and population and to a lesser extent changes in unemployment and gross domestic product (GDP) are the important determinants of returns on housing.

Practical implications

The findings imply that real estate investors in Iran can obtain higher returns from their housing investment if they invest in provinces that have positive changes in population, GDP and inflation and negative changes in unemployment rate.

Originality/value

Most studies in this area cover US and European real estate markets (particularly office market). Since findings for developed countries might not be directly transferable to emerging market economies such as Iran, therefore, more work is necessary to obtain a clearer picture of real estate markets in emerging market economies.
Place marketing and phases of the image: a conceptual framework
Authors: Zavattaro Staci M.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual framework that serves as: a potential how‐to guide for place managers; an evolution of place branding strategy; a cautionary tale about place brands developed without stakeholder involvement; and a way to open up the theory space to arrive at a potentially ideal marketing mix. The framework reveals consequences of relying on imagery with little connection to the place's reality. Place brands developed without these characteristics could lead to auto‐communication, which could affect the organization‐public relationship by stunting genuine organization learning and simulating meaningful two‐way dialogue.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework was developed using Qualitative Media Analysis to explore several constructs – market‐based models of governance, public relations models, Baudrillard's phases of the image, and six promotional tactics cities are used to promote the place.

Findings

Based on the concepts employed, it is argued that cities need to be cognizant of after effects of place brands, as the organization‐public relationship might be fractured.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation might come from theories selected, but implications for place branding academics and practitioners are potentially great. Further research questions are presented.

Practical implications

Practitioners could use the piece as a how‐to guide when developing a place marketing strategy, as well as become cognizant of when auto‐communication could take place based on the communications strategies employed.

Originality/value

The paper develops a workable tool for place marketers while bringing attention to an area not often explored, be it theoretically and empirically, which is the after effects of place marketing.
What trust grows through upward influence?
Authors: Trong Tuan Luu
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discern whether upward influence behavior, with its antecedents such as organizational culture and leadership, can cultivate organizational trust, with particular reference to manufacturing companies in the plastics industry in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used for the analysis of 418 responses returned from self‐administered structured questionnaires sent to 655 middle level managers.

Findings

From the findings emerged the linkage pattern of knowledge‐based trust or identity‐based trust and organizationally beneficial upward influence behavior. Ad hocracy, market, and clan cultures and transformational leadership were found to cultivate organizationally‐beneficial upward influence strategies, which in turn cultivate knowledge‐based or identity‐based trust.

Originality/value

The paper discerns the interplay between culture and leadership on the upward influence behaviors, which in turn influence organizational trust. The paper's findings provide insight into the interplay pattern of trust and its antecedents and underscore the magnitude of ad hocracy, market, and clan culture types, as well as transformational leadership style in the building of organizationally‐beneficial upward influence strategies in plastic manufacturing companies in the Vietnam business setting.
Lieutenant Pinkerton and empire: calling for a newLa Convivenciain a post 9/11 hegemony
Authors: Thorne Kym , Kouzmin Alexander
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Post 9/11 events not only exposed the visible and invisible aspects of the often intertwined self‐interest of political, economic and especially religious elites, but also presented a practical and ideological vacuum susceptible to “once and for all” opportunistic fantasies of ultra and Neo‐conservative, cum religious, fanatics. The purpose of this paper is to counter balance the constant flow of Neo‐liberal and religious‐fundamentalist propaganda that is having a destructive effect on hard‐won civil ideals and democratic freedoms.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a study of the relationship between visible and invisible power in the context of a historical study of the great age of tolerance and co‐existence between Jews, Muslims and Christians. The paper uses Benvenisti's “double history” methodology to recover what is visible on the surface and the “buried history” of what is invisible to discern the implications the SpanishConvivenciahas for contemporary debates over political and religious “purity”.

Findings

This paper discovers dangerous signs of a continuing ahistorical hubris amongst elites and others that denies the historical evidence for the possibility of mutual accommodations between political and religious communities. This paper locates the need to recover lost, or discounted, multiple histories and (in)visible portents of a future other than the triumphalism of Western, especially “exceptionalist” US interests.

Research limitations/implications

This paper demonstrates the need for more research into the use/misuse of historical evidence within (in)visible power mechanisms designed to serve ideological and hegemonic interests.

Originality/value

In our uncertain age, this paper is notable for developing a historically grounded vision of a real‐politic new world order based on mutual accommodation and respect.
Market risk disclosures of banks: a cross‐country study
Authors: Savvides Savvas C. , Savvidou Nicoletta
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the disclosure practices of market risk by 30 banks in ten countries of different size and geographic distribution (USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, Italy, The Netherlands, France, Greece and Cyprus).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses content analysis and other statistical techniques (regression and correlation analysis) to produce qualitative and quantitative indicators of the degree of market risk disclosure to ascertain if differences exist across countries and across banks of different size.

Findings

The findings validate the testing hypotheses, namely that there are still significant differences across banks in different countries, meaning that there is no harmonization in disclosure practices; that the banks in the Anglo‐Saxon countries (UK and USA) are consistently better in their overall risk reporting practices; that the banks that are “good” in reporting qualitative information are also “good” in reporting quantitative information on risk types; OLS regression analysis and correlation analysis point to a positive association between bank size (as measured by the market capitalization) and the level of risk reporting.

Originality/value

The study contributes to a research area that is under‐researched, especially focusing on market risk of banks across countries.
Cogent SSC Ltd: higher apprenticeships – the missing link in the skills system
Authors: Sakhardande Christine
Published: September 2012

Purpose

In 2011, Cogent SSC Ltd was awarded funding to develop a Higher Apprenticeship in Life Sciences. The purpose of this paper is to outline the Developing Science Professional programme, how it was developed and what will be delivered.

Design/methodology/approach

Information presented in the paper is drawn from the organisation's own work in developing a Higher Apprenticeship. It builds on information incorporated in the original bid and how the project is being developed.

Findings

Research undertaken by Cogent highlighted that many employers are looking for work‐ready, fit for purpose employees to take up key scientific roles across their workforce. This suggests there is an appetite for a programme such as Developing Science Professionals which aims to train science technicians to a higher level. The development of the Higher Apprenticeship and potential impact are showcased in this case study.

Originality

The paper is based on the author's own experience and presents a case study of an apprenticeship programme specific to the author's organisation.
Semta: higher apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing and engineering
Authors: Twigg Bill
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Responding to skills needs in the advanced manufacturing and engineering sector, Semta are in the process of developing a higher apprenticeship (HA) in advanced manufacturing and engineering. The purpose of this paper is to present the motivations behind developing an HA in this area, what the framework will comprise of and how it will be delivered and impact on the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Information presented in the paper is drawn from the organisation's own work in developing an HA. It builds on information incorporated in the original bid and project outline, as well as future development plans.

Findings

Higher level skills are vital to the success of advanced manufacturing and engineering (AME) employers, with many articulating a need to move up the value chain to skills at Level 4 and above. In response to this, Semta is leading the collaborative development of a Higher Apprenticeships Framework in Advanced Manufacturing at Levels 4 and 6. The need for a level 5 qualification is also being investigated. Further findings on the impact of the programme will become apparent when the programme is being delivered.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the author's own experience and presents a case study of an apprenticeship programme specific to the author's organisation.
Building a bridge to the professions
Authors: Hamnett Matt , Baker Alexandra
Published: September 2012

Purpose

PwC is currently working with a broad cross‐section of employers in the UK to create a new Higher Apprenticeship for the professional services. The purpose of this paper is to explore the environment and drivers for the creation of the new Higher Apprenticeship framework, the work PwC is leading to develop it and the outlook for Higher Apprenticeships in the professions.

Design/methodology/approach

The information provided in this case study is drawn from the organisation's own work in creating a new Higher Apprenticeship Framework. It expands on research undertaken by PwC.

Findings

Creating a skilled workforce is consistently the number one priority for CEOs worldwide. Whilst graduate recruitment has been the long established route into professions such as accountancy, consulting and law, employers are looking to offer a wider range of different entry routes that enable them to attract and recruit from a broader, more diverse talent pool.

Originality/value

Employers are now playing a more active role in the design and delivery of programmes that will provide them with the pipeline of skilled people they need. The paper highlights how the higher apprenticeship currently in development will respond to these needs and how PwC propose to progress this further.
Apprenticeships in England: an overview of current issues
Authors: Lee Dionne
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Apprenticeships in England are currently experiencing a revival. The purpose of this paper is to provide a general overview of apprenticeships in England, examine current government policy, and explore current issues around the further development of apprenticeships.

Design/methodology/approach

Desk research, including reviewing other research articles and labour market intelligence has been carried out to provide a general overview of the issues.

Findings

Apprenticeships have traditionally been regarded as the vocational route to stable employment. Although they have sometimes suffered from a poor reputation they are now becoming an increasingly popular option for both younger and older people. The knowledge economy is driving up the demand for higher level skills and concurrent with this is the notion that, in today's competitive labour market, experience is vital. Not only has this impacted on the popularity of apprenticeships but also upon more traditional “academic” routes such as higher education (HE). In addition it has raised questions about higher level skills and vocational education. The introduction of Higher Apprenticeships and work experience/real world interactions built into HE courses are establishing synergies between the two elements of the skills/education system; however, developing these synergies further is a critical issue for future consideration.

Originality/value

There is a proliferation of publications tracking the nature and value of apprenticeships. This paper traces apprenticeships and their evolution and examines how practices adopted can be applied to newer vocational options being integrated into HE. The paper considers apprenticeships and other vocational options, building on the author's own discussions with employers and recent graduates.
The role of universities in higher apprenticeship development
Authors: Anderson Adrian , Bravenboer Darryll , Hemsworth David
Published: September 2012

Purpose

To date, few universities have been involved in the Government‐funded drive to expand higher apprenticeships across England. Universities have a track record of expertise and innovation in professional and work‐based learning that can significantly contribute to the higher‐level skills agenda and could have a pivotal role in the rapidly growing initiative to develop higher apprenticeship programmes. The purpose of this paper is to outline the potential contribution universities could make to higher apprenticeship and the potential barriers to university engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an analysis of skills and higher education policy, initiatives and related research in England as the context for university involvement in higher apprenticeship. A case study is used to illustrate the benefits of and barriers to university involvement, including an uneven funding policy playing field for universities and misconceptions regarding professional competence and practice‐based higher‐level learning.

Findings

The paper illustrates the potential benefits university involvement in higher apprenticeship could deliver for employers and learners by supporting individual career progression and social mobility, and by providing employers and employees with clear and cost effective work‐based pathways to management roles. It concludes that the current barriers to university involvement may result in a missed opportunity to maximise value from public investment in the workforce development expertise of universities, redeployed to realise higher apprenticeship innovation.

Originality/value

The authors believe this paper is the only academic analysis of the value of and barriers to university involvement in the current Westminster Government flagship Higher Apprenticeship programme. The case study included has not featured in any other academic journal.