bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of layer thickness on mechanical properties in stereolithography
Authors: Chockalingam K. , Jawahar N. , Chandrasekhar U.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Mechanical properties such as tensile, yield, impact strengths, and development of residual stresses play an important role intooling applications. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of layer thickness – one of the influential process parameters in stereolithography (SL) process, on mechanical properties of SL components.

Design/methodology/approach

Test specimens are constructed as per the ASTM standards for different layer thicknesses in SL 5000 machine, using epoxy resin CIBA tool ® SL5530, a high temperature resistant SL material that is suitable for rapid tooling applications. Tensile, yield and impact tests are carried out with suitable equipments. Residual stress is analysed using hole drill method.

Findings

The analysis reveals that when the layer thickness is smaller, the strength of the part is higher.

Research limitations/implications

Conclusion of this research is drawn based on the analysis of the most widely used three layer thicknesses of 100, 125 and 150 μm. X‐ray diffraction or molecular resonance analysis may be useful to understand the reason for the variation in mechanical properties.

Originality/value

This experimental study provides the useful information to the SL machine users in the selection of layer thickness to manufacture rapid tools.
Application of fused deposition in controlled microstructure metal‐ceramic composites
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Amit , Das Kakoli , Marusich Jeff , Onagoruwa Seyi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Al‐alumina interconnected phase composites were processed using the direct fused deposition process. These materials with tailored microstructures can find applications as structural materials with gradient properties.

Design/methodology/approach

In this process, feedstock material with fused silica as a starting material was compounded at a high shear mixer and then extruded as a filament using a single screw extruder. Extruded filaments were used with a commercial fused deposition modeler, FDM 1650, to process controlled porosity green ceramic structures. Porous green ceramic preforms were subjected to binder removal and sintering cycles in furnace air. Controlled porosity sintered ceramic structures were infiltrated with Al 5052 metal by pressureless reactive metal infiltration to form an in situ Al‐alumina structured composite.

Findings

The main advantage for this approach is to control distribution of both metal and ceramic phases in the composite. During metal infiltration good bonding was observed between the metal and the ceramic phases. Composites were tested under both quasi‐static and dynamic shock loading to evaluate their mechanical properties. Compression strength of these composites was 689±95 MPa.

Originality/value

This paper describes application of the direct fused deposition process for fabrication of ceramic/metal composites where both macrostructure as well as microstructure can be controlled simultaneously. The paper also focuses on one of the potential application area for 5052‐Al alloy.
Advances in three dimensional printing – state of the art and future perspectives
Authors: Dimitrov D. , Schreve K. , de Beer N.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper surveys the current state and capabilities of three dimensional printing (3DP). A comprehensive review of 3D Printing applications is presented. The scope of the applications includes design, manufacturing, the medical field and architecture.

Design/methodology/approach

A large variety of manufacturing applications such as rapid pattern making and rapid tooling using the 3DP process directly or as core technology, as well as further implications in design and engineering analysis, medicine, and architecture are presented and evaluated.

Findings

Some research issues are also discussed. An attempt, based on the state of the art, to show weaknesses and opportunities, and to draw conclusions about the future of this important process rounds up this paper.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this research survey is limited to evaluation and comparison of processes that may be characterised as 3D printing technologies.

Practical implications

The study is very useful as a basis for matching evaluated 3D printing machine and process capabilities to user requirements, and forms a framework on which future comparative studies can build.

Originality/value

A comprehensive overview of the capabilities of 3DP processes is presented and evaluated. It shows the application of 3D printing beyond concept modelling. The paper is valuable for researchers as well as individuals, who require adequate and relevant comparative information during decision making.
Mesoscale RF relay enabled by integrated rapid manufacturing
Authors: Palmer J.A. , Jokiel B. , Nordquist C.D. , Kast B.A. , Atwood C.J. , Grant E. , Livingston F.J. , Medina F. , Wicker R.B.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper presents a novel mesoscale RF (mRF) relay that integrates advanced high resolution stereolithography (SL) and micro wire electro discharge machining (μEDM) technologies. Methods and infrastructure for reliable batch assembly of electromechanical actuators and structural parts less than 5 mm3 in volume are described. Switches made using these techniques are expected to have greater power handling capability relative to current micro RF relay products.

Design/methodology/approach

The conjecture is that the integration of SL and similar rapid additive manufacturing with other mesofabrication technologies can yield innovative miniature products with novel capabilities. A series of mRF prototypes consisting of a contact mechanism and actuator with return spring were fabricated assembled, inspected, and characterized for electromechanical performance. Characterization results led to specific conclusions regarding capabilities of the mRF product, and the integrated manufacturing technique.

Findings

The microassembly apparatus and epoxy‐based fastening system led to durable prototypes within 4 h (excluding a 16‐24 h cure cycle). Relay stroke ranged from 560 to 1,650 μm indicating a relative assembly accuracy of 90 percent. Prototypes demonstrated insertion loss of 1.3 dB at 100 MHz and isolation of better than 30 dB through 300 MHz.

Research limitations/implications

Results indicated that fully functional and robust mesoscale relays are possible using integrated manufacturing with SL. However, prototypes exhibited high contact resistance and lacked assembly precision in the context of contact mechanism stroke. Opportunities exist to reduce contact resistance and switching time.

Practical implications

The research provides a practical new product application for integrated mesoscale rapid manufacturing.

Originality/value

This work represents one of the first examples of a mesoscale relay rapidly manufactured with a combination of μEDM and SL components.
Academic entrepreneurship: an exploratory case study
Authors: Brennan Michael C. , McGowan Pauric
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explore, describe and explain what processes are at work in facilitating or inhibiting entrepreneurship amongst academics.

Design/methodology/approach

A corporate entrepreneurship perspective is used to construct a framework for understanding academic entrepreneurship at different ontological levels within a university context. A single case study method is adopted involving a purposeful sampling strategy of academic entrepreneurs within one university. A sense‐making approach investigated the practice of entrepreneurship by academics.

Findings

Develops a tentative framework for bounding the phenomenon of academic entrepreneurship and presents a model that attempts to identify key elements of academic entrepreneurship in terms of different modes of knowledge production and value‐creating processes.

Research limitations/implications

The single case setting limits the applicability of the research to other institutions. However, the framework and model that are developed and the overall approach are valuable contributions to an important, emerging research area. The academic entrepreneurship framework provides a series of logically related conceptual bins that form a basis for future research. The model of academic entrepreneurship attempts to explain how academics produce different types of knowledge.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that academic entrepreneurs have a complex set of relationships with their parent disciplines and the university setting within which they operate. The outcomes indicate that orthodox models of entrepreneurship are not always meaningful as regards understanding what academic entrepreneurs actually do in practice.

Originality/value

The paper investigates a little‐understood phenomenon and one that is increasingly important for UK policy makers and university administrators. The academic entrepreneurship framework and model is an original and valuable contribution to the study of this phenomenon.
A less‐developed country perspective of consumer ethnocentrism and “country of origin” effects: Indonesian evidence
Authors: Hamin  , Elliott Greg
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the concept of “consumer ethnocentrism” (CE) and its impact on product evaluation and preferences among Indonesian consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey involved interviewing a representative sample of Indonesian consumers who had previously purchased the products in question, namely colour television and who had travelled by international airlines. A total of 547 usable questionnaires were completed in face‐to‐face interviews in Indonesia. Conjoint analysis was employed to study the relative importance and part‐worth estimates of country‐of‐origin (COO) effects across high and low CE groups.

Findings

Results of a sample survey of Indonesian consumers are discussed. They show, firstly, that the overall level of CE of Indonesian consumers, compared with published results for a range of countries, is notably high. Secondly, results of conjoint analysis showing the relationship between CE and consumer evaluations of “COO”, product quality perceptions, and purchase intentions, for both tangible goods and intangible services, are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The actual sample was heavily biased to upper socio‐economic groups because of its focus on international airlines as one of the subject products. This will inevitably distort the average Consumer ethnocentric tendency scale score, but was felt to be unavoidable.

Originality/value

In the past, research on country‐of‐origin effects has been carried out mostly in more developed countries considering products made in less developed countries (LDC's). In the present research, attention has been given to understand the effects of consumer CE on perceptions of product quality, price, perceived value, and product choice from the point of view of consumers from LDC's. In addition, the study of COO effects in relation to intangible services is noteworthy.
The influence of explicit and implicit service promises on Chinese students’ expectations of overseas universities
Authors: Prugsamatz Sunita , Ofstad Lars
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study aims to extend the knowledge and literature on which information sources influences (explicit service promises such as advertising, personal selling; implicit service promises such as tangibles and price; past experiences; word of mouth; image and reputation) Chinese students’ expectations of overseas universities’ service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from undergraduate Chinese students from two universities in Australia. A total of 133 questionnaires were returned for data analysis. Factor analysis and multiple analysis of variance were conducted for this study.

Findings

Results indicate the three most influential sources of information on Chinese students expectations of universities are: past experiences, advertising and word of mouth. Findings suggest that the more explicit and implicit service promises the respondent is exposed to; the higher the desired and predicted expectations of the university's service quality. However their level of expectations (both desired and predicted) is considerably greater when exposed to explicit service promises.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of this study includes the results obtained as not necessarily generalisable or applicable to other cultures (for instance Europeans). Future research could examine Chinese students’ formation of expectations based on other factors such as human values.

Originality/value

The theoretical contribution of this study consists of applying and extending Zeithamlet al.'s model, that proposes that a customer's level of expectations is dependent on several antecedents, within a higher education (pre‐purchase) context using a Chinese sample. The main managerial implication is that measuring the influence of information sources on Chinese students will provide universities with more effective ways of targeting Chinese consumers with their marketing communication campaigns.
The role of communication and visual identity in modern organisations
Authors: Melewar T.C. , Bassett Kara , Simões Cláudia
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper attempts to shed light on a further understanding of the notion of corporate identity especially in relation to communication and visual identity, and its relevance for the organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a main theoretical background reviewing and discussing the literature in corporate identity in particular, addressing the following dimensions: communications and visual identity. The paper also resorts to examples that illustrate how organisations change or shape their corporate identity to face (new) market and environmental conditions.

Findings

The paper shows that corporate identity is an issue of growing importance to all companies. Its development and management has become a key dimension within an organisation's strategy. The paper highlights that corporate identity extends beyond the company's logo and name. It covers all forms of internal and external communications of the company. It further discusses the implications for corporate identity change or adaptation in the context of market and other environmental alterations and how it leads to attaining competitive advantage.

Practical implications

The paper describes how practitioners applied (and may apply) corporate identity as a strategic resource.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to a further understanding of the magnitude of corporate identity, its strategic relevance and managerial dynamics. Moreover, by stressing communication and visual identity dimensions, it underlines how “parts” of identity need and should be managed in a company's setting.
An empirical study on the influence of environmental labels on consumers
Authors: D'Souza Clare , Taghian Mehdi , Lamb Peter
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Despite research studies indicating strong support for labelling information, uncertainty remains with respect to how labels influence consumers. This paper attempts to empirically investigate how consumers who differ in terms of environmentalism respond to labels.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected on an Australian sample using a structured questionnaire administered on the phone using quantum research (CATI) data collection services. A total of 155 questionnaires were completed and used for data analysis. The data were analysed using both descriptive measures and correlations between variables.

Findings

There appears to be a proportion of consumers that find product labels hard to understand. The research found that there are consumers who will buy green products even if they are lower in quality in comparison to alternative products, but would look for environmental information on labels. With respect to price sensitive green consumers, there appears to be a relationship between price sensitivity and “always” reading labels as well as indicating that there is “sufficient” information on product labels to make informed purchase decisions.

Research limitations/implications

It was beyond the scope of the research to account for some of the utilitarian approaches to interpretation or in‐depth comprehension of label information. The sample size of 155, although selected using a probability method, may, to some extent, limit the overall accuracy of the results.

Practical implications

The research offers some important information on different green consumer segments that would alert managers on how best to position environmental labels. Findings such as “Satisfied with labels” correlates with “Labels are accurate”, which suggests that businesses need to provide a clear, accurate and easily legible label design to encourage satisfaction with the accuracy of content and the communication aspects of a label.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to better understanding of green customers purchase intentions and the usefulness of ecological product labels. It offers some insights and assistance to businesses in planning their green product/labelling strategies.
A study of aluminium wire failure in automotive under‐hood applications
Authors: Yi Sung , Kyoo Park Sang , Choon Teo Kiat
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a design guideline for an automotive electronic module in order to improve its reliability in elevated environmental environments as well as in vibration environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Wire looping profiles, gel heights, and effects of mechanical vibration on aluminium wire bond failures are studied. Natural frequencies of various wire profiles are evaluated and effects of gel heights on reliability of products are studied using stochastic finite element analyses. The frequency dependent properties of silicone gels used in electronic modules are characterized by the corn and plate test. An experiment was also conducted in order to confirm numerical results.

Findings

The present study shows that the gel plays an important role in wire bond failures and reliability of the product. The gel reduces the amplitude of vibration of electronic modules due to its damping characteristics. However, both analytic and experimental results indicate that the gel imposes extra weight on the wires and may induce stresses on heels.

Research limitations/implications

In the future study, it is suggested that other gel materials should be studied since the properties of gel strongly depend on the frequency which will affect the fatigue behavior of bonding wires.

Practical implications

The findings can be used as general design guidelines for wire bonding for automotive electronic modules.

Originality/value

The results will be very useful to design bonding wires for automotive electronic modules.
The relevance of value‐at‐risk disclosures: evidence from the LTCM crisis
Authors: Chipalkatti Niranjan , Datar Vinay
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Previous studies have established that the failure of the hedge fund, long‐term capital management (LTCM), was associated with significant negative abnormal returns for many US banks, especially around September 2, 1998, when LTCM announced its failure. This study attempts to examine whether bank value‐at‐risk (VaR) disclosures were used by investors to assess the potential trading loss that a bank could suffer at that time.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines whether there was any association between disclosed VaR and the magnitude of abnormal returns and trading volume surrounding the announcement date.

Findings

The results indicate that there was no such association which suggests that investors did not use the VaR information to assess the potential trading losses of exposed banks. Banks that formed part of the LTCM bailout consortium and those with larger amounts of notional derivatives faced the largest negative reaction at the time of the failure announcement.

Originality/value

VaR disclosures are costly to prepare and complex to interpret. The study finds no benefits of VaR disclosures to bank investors.
The threat posed by transnational political corruption to global commercial and development banking
Authors: McCormick John T. , Paterson Nancy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper explores the threat that transnational political corruption poses to both the world's development banking and commercial banking sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper was written from the perspective of someone who has served as a financial fraud prosecutor, an investigator for the World Bank, and currently as a banking supervisor and regulator. The paper uses three case studies to demonstrate how corrupt actors, using various fraudulent and corrupt schemes, steal funds from development banks, and then launder the illicit proceeds from these schemes into legitimate commercial banking systems around the world.

Findings

The paper describes the reputational and financial risks posed to the commercial and development banking sectors from transnational political corruption, and predicts that these risks will grow as more signatory nations to various anti‐corruption treaties and conventions criminalize the bribery of foreign public officials.

Research limitations/implications

Left unchecked, both commercial and development banks face growing political, legal, and economic risks from political corruption.

Practical implications

Drawing on the lessons learned from the case studies analyzed in the paper, the author offers a number of practical recommendations aimed at reducing the threat posed to commercial and development banks from public corruption.

Originality/value

The paper establishes a common threat posed by transnational political corruption to both the commercial and development banking sectors.
Counterfeiting: links to organised crime and terrorist funding
Authors: Lowe Peter
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight how terrorists are using counterfeiting to fund their operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of the links between counterfeiting and terrorism.

Findings

Terrorist groups have multiple sources of funding, both licit and illicit. It is to be expected that terrorist groups and their sympathisers will become even more involved in counterfeiting and piracy in the future.

Originality/value

The paper provides insight into why counterfeiting is attractive to terrorists and why they will look more to this source of income in the future.
Conflict diamonds
Authors: Rodgers Elizabeth J.A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the Sierra Leonean trade in “conflict diamonds” which has fuelled a rebel war in the country for more than a decade. In particular, it crucially asks whether the reform of the diamond trade by international legislative efforts to develop an international diamond certification scheme can stem the flow of “conflict diamonds.”

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws upon existing work and research to provide a detailed case study of international legislative attempts to curtail the trade in illicit diamonds from Sierra Leone, specifically by implementing a Certification of Origin Scheme.

Findings

Based on existing research, the paper argues that the Certification of Origin Scheme has made a positive contribution to the illegal mining, trading and smuggling of conflict diamonds in Sierra Leone. However, peace and recovery will also depend on how extensive official and unofficial corruption is tackled.

Research limitations/implications

International efforts to limit the flow of “conflict” diamonds, the dynamics of the conflict itself and relevant research are all in a state of continuous development. It is therefore significant to view this paper within this ever changing framework.

Originality/value

This paper will be of value to those wishing to be introduced to the nature of the illicit diamond trade and recent efforts on behalf of the international community to solve the problem.
Building synergies between theory and practice
Authors: Nardo Massimo
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expand on the idea that appropriate theory can lead to prompter and more effective action, or prevent the waste time and resources in trying to achieve empirically something we can never attain.

Design/methodology/approach

Starting from anecdotal examples, the paper shows how appropriate theory can lead to prompter and more effective action, or prevent from wasting time and resources in trying to achieve something we can never attain. Then it reports about an example of the potential for applications coming from a proper methodological approach (namely a research project carried out by the Ufficio Italiano dei Cambi in association with the London School of Economics) and its methodology. Finally it deals with complexity and the conditions for acting upon a system, the need to work out preventative monitoring instruments and how it may be approached. In the field of financial crime, a research project, which UIC (the Italian FIU) has been carrying out in association with the London School of Economics, explored a methodology aiming at mapping behaviours associated with money laundering in terms of IT assisted targeting models.

Findings

The process of model building rests on the appropriate design of the path that goes from choosing the elements to describe the behaviour, to identifying the better parameters to reflect them, and to setting out proper queries that match parameters within the available data. A proper methodology assists and assesses every component and step of the process. If we want to act in a system, we have to develop a systemic cognitive framework and a systemic approach. We must be aware that the system will react rearranging its internal structure and procedures, and take this reaction into account. If we want to combat effectively financial crime, it is crucial that we know what instruments and opportunities the system offers to those who are to act within it. We need to work out monitoring instruments to be used to predict/intercept crooks' possible actions. We must identify structural links and connections, risk areas and loopholes. We have to map our possible routes, discover connecting nodes and access points that are not sufficiently guarded, becoming able to address proper action. Research can do much to help find appropriate answers.

Originality/value

The paper addresses regulators, enforcers and academics in the field of anti‐money‐laundering and anti‐terrorism‐financing action. It shows that research can help both in developing/gathering knowledge and in integrating knowledge into action. This need for qualified, practical‐fitted knowledge is the widest field of possible co‐operation between research – a kind of new frontier in whose development to invest resources in search of innovation, synergies and new strategies for the times to come.
Accounting, purchasing and supply chain management
Authors: Joyce William B.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To not only help with price quality and reliability and speed of delivery but also to enhance value analysis, make‐or‐buy analysis and supplier audits and certification. Planning may also be enhanced and assistance may be derived in maintaining ethical standards.

Design/methodology/approach

An integration of the managerial accounting and purchasing functions is discussed and illustrated. It is hypothesized that synergy can be gained by the organization and related stakeholders.

Findings

The purchasing function in business organizations is becoming increasingly important, and synergies can be gain by integrating the purchasing and managerial accounting functions.

Originality/value

By integrating the purchasing and managerial accounting functions, costs can be reduced and quality can be increased.
Managing quality effectively in supply chain: a preliminary study
Authors: Lo Victor H.Y. , Yeung Alice
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Operations management literature prescribes various practices in supply quality management (SQM). However, few studies have described the SQM practices being conducted in Asian countries, especially in Hong Kong. The purpose of this study is to identify the critical SQM practices that conducted in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

We used in‐depth industrial interviews and extensive literature review to identify some critical items for evaluating SQM practices. Accordingly, an instrument was developed. We validated this instrument with 90 leading manufacturing related companies in Hong Kong by using SPSS 9.0.

Findings

Finally, we extracted ten critical factors for describing a SQM system. These factors could be clustered into three major groups namely supplier selection, supplier development and supplier integration.

Research limitations/implications

This paper has not discussed the relationships among SQM practices, supplier quality and organisational quality. For future study, it will be worthwhile to consider these interrelations.

Originality/value

The newly developed instrument could be used to measure the practices of supply quality management in Hong Kong.
Collaboration planning in a supply chain
Authors: Cassivi Luc
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyze how e‐collaboration tools affect different partners along the supply chain, and to categorize firms according to their level of collaboration planning within a supply chain environment.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a field study, which focuses on one large telecommunications equipment manufacturer and a few strategic first‐tier suppliers, provides the basis to fully understand the e‐collaboration methods and the various issues and concerns of the different members of the supply chain. It is followed by an electronic survey conducted with 53 firms worldwide acting in the same supply chain, which constitutes the second phase of the study.

Findings

Different roles may be attributed to collaboration tools such as facilitating access to information, which affects knowledge creation capabilities, and assisting in the design of flexible supply chains. Furthermore, three separate groups with different levels and types of collaboration planning were identified. These groups appropriately represent the telecommunications equipment supply chain, where firms are either deeply involved in supply chain collaboration or very minimally concerned by it.

Research limitations/implications

By focusing on the initial stage of CPFR, we might overlook some important links with the other two stages of CPFR. However, with a more focused approach, we were able to obtain detailed information on the collaborative planning stage. A second limitation is the selection of one specific supply chain, which makes the generalization to other supply chains difficult.

Practical implications

Understanding the role of CPFR in their supply chain and, more importantly, the role of collaboration planning in developing a network of partners.

Originality/value

This paper looks at how collaboration is planned, through CPFR actions, between members of a supply chain.
Benchmarking the operational efficiency of third party logistics providers using data envelopment analysis
Authors: Min Hokey , Jong Joo Seong
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In an era of downsizing and financial cutbacks, the operational efficiency of third party logistics providers (3PLs) dictates their competitiveness and/or survival. In an effort to help 3PLs enhance productivity and price leverage in the increasingly competitive third party logistics market, this paper aims to develop a meaningful set of financial benchmarks that will dictate best practices. In particular, the paper proposes a data envelopment analysis (DEA) that is proven to be useful for measuring the operational efficiency of various profit or non‐profit organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the examples of major 3PLs in the USA, this paper is the first to illustrate the usefulness of DEA for measuring the competitiveness of third party logistics services. The proposed DEA model also helps 3PLs identify potential sources of inefficiency and provide useful hindsight for the continuous improvement of operational efficiency. Furthermore, the proposed DEA model not only helps 3PLs establish detailed policy guidelines in prioritizing the use of financial resources, but also helps them evaluate the effects of financial investment on the profitability of 3PLs.

Findings

DEA study finds that the strength of 3PL service performances and the breadth of diverse 3PL services is somewhat correlated to the long‐term financial strength of 3PLs.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper includes the novel application of DEA to the performance measurement of 3PLS. The proposed DEA model not only helps 3PLS establish detailed policy guidelines in prioritizing the use of financial resources, but also helps them evaluate the effects of financial investment on the profitability of 3PLS.
Economic clusters and the supply chain: a case study
Authors: Patti Anthony L.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to illustrate the advantages for firms who build local supplier and customer relationships whenever possible.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of a US petrochemical firm is used along with a discussion of Porter's economic cluster theory.

Findings

The firm outsourced two raw materials first to a firm about 200 miles away and then to a firm that built a plant across the street. By sourcing to a co‐located firm the company reduced its costs by $280,000 per year while simultaneously increasing quality by 6.5 per cent, reducing lead‐time by seven to ten days, and reducing raw material inventory from 800 tons to 30 tons.

Research limitations/implications

As with all case studies, care must be taken when generalizing the findings of this study. This article provides empirical evidence that supports Porter's economic cluster theory.

Practical implications

Managers are reminded that even in the age of the global business environment, there is still practical value in constructing local supply chains. Government officials who are in charge of economic development are shown the value of targeting clusters of economic activity.

Originality/value

This article provides empirical evidence that supports Porter's economic cluster theory and has practical implications for managers and government officials.
UK Generation Y male fashion consciousness
Authors: Bakewell Cathy , Mitchell Vincent‐Wayne , Rothwell Morgan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

As social theorists propose that there has been an intensification of social and commercial pressures on men to become fashion consumers, this paper sets out to examine the proposition by investigating fashion consciousness of Generation Y male consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from a survey of 346 male respondents aged between 18‐25 who completed a fashion consciousness questionnaire, which was then factor‐analysed.

Findings

Relatively high levels of fashion consciousness were found, but not necessarily fashion adoption. Factor analysis showed that men view fashion in highly simplistic terms and there is still a strong “anti‐fashion” dimension to the average young male consumer.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing on the fields of psychology and sociology, it is argued that “anti‐fashion” fashion consumption creates the distinction necessary for men to create a defensible masculine practice.

Practical implications

The “anti‐fashion” motivation is of interest to marketers and provides a basis for planning retailing and branding approaches. The key to fashion marketing for men would be to show how clothing could overcome some of these fears, e.g. not earning or achieving enough.

Originality/value

Being such a nascent potential market segment, there are no empirical studies that specifically focus on male Generation Ys.
Fashion occupational communities – a market‐as‐network approach
Authors: Ashton Philippa
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Seeks to explore the notion of fashion networks, both local and global, as a means by which “products” – economic and intangible – can be exchanged and to present research findings of a network study undertaken in the Nottingham knitting industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents a study of knitting companies in the Nottingham area of the UK using social network methods to identify the structure and role of the local and global networks in which these businesses sit and shows, by describing the networks of two contrasting companies, the advantages and challenges they afford to the learning of individual businesses and other participants in the local network.

Findings

The density of the local network is presented and the role of universities and regional development agencies is shown to be important. The profiles of two‐example companies shows one type which is well connected within the local network and another type which has good global links but is not well connected locally. The implications of these two kinds of profile are discussed.

Practical implications

Indicates the importance of developing balanced networks, which allow the dissemination of ideas, information and norms and provide opportunities for exchange.

Originality/value

Challenges current ideas about fashion supply chains by exploring markets as complex networks of relationships which reflects the blurring of boundaries between firms and changing perceptions of “customers” and currencies of exchange. This paper revisits notions of markets in the context of the needs of small and medium‐sized fashion businesses and in particular focuses on their learning and development.
The diamond approach to the competitiveness of Korea's apparel industry
Authors: Jin Byoungho , Moon Hwy‐Chang
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The Korean textiles and apparel‐related industry has played a major role in the country's development; however, this sector's competitiveness is decreasing due mainly to labor costs. As with the country's economic development, the new sources of competitive factors need to be strategically developed and cultivated. The purpose of this study is to explore what constitutes a country's competitiveness in the global apparel market after losing its labor competitiveness and how a country effectively achieves it.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs two competitiveness models, Porter's diamond model and a generalized double diamond model, as a theoretical framework. Along with two theoretical models, this study employs extensive literature reviews, examples of successful firms, and four interviews with field practitioners in the Korean apparel industry.

Findings

Beginning with Porter four determinants (factor conditions, demand conditions, related and supporting industries, and firm strategy, structure, and rivalry), new sources of competitive advantage factors are suggested for the evolving industry. The generalized double diamond model incorporates international activities, which may occur either within a country or outside a country. Utilizing generalized double diamond model, the future directions and solutions for the industry with the identified new competitive factors were suggested.

Originality/value

Based on the models and the identification of new competitive factors, the Korean apparel industry is reviewed, and recommendations are made for its continued growth in the global marketplace. Implications pertaining to the creation of a dynamic self‐reinforcing diamond system were also suggested.
A proposed strategy for introducing moderately priced American brand merchandise in China
Authors: Frumkin Steven , Thapa Neera , Gencalioglu Ayca
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a path forward, for the marketing mix elements, to be adopted by a US retailer entering the moderate brand market in China.

Design/methodology/approach

A number of recent studies focusing on the Chinese retail market, especially the apparel market, are examined. In light of these, the best method of progress for US retailers operating and/or intending to operate in China is formulated.

Findings

The emergence of the Chinese market is coupled with demographic, economic, cultural and technological factors as well as consumers' highly positive perceptions of Western brands seen as status symbols that have attracted foreign investors. However, when entering the market consideration should be also given to structure of retail environment, brand image, distribution formats and positioning efforts recalling that the Chinese market is relatively brand‐uneducated and diverse. Based on the information obtained emphasizes that diversity is the key in defining the market and limited localization should be the main concern of product mix.

Originality/value

This paper serves as a comprehensive guideline as it provides an overview of the Chinese market in addition to detailed strategies for US investors entering into China. It combines carefully studied opinions and viewpoints of experienced observers of the marketplace. The author contributes over 30 years of experience in the textile, apparel and retail sectors. Recommendations are provided for US retailers aspiring to serve this market by differentiating their marketing mix.
Downsizing and the impact of job counseling and retraining on effective employee responses
Authors: Tzafrir Shay S. , Mano‐Negrin Rita , Harel Gedalihau H. , Rom‐Nagy Daphna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Downsizing is a very pervasive organizational process. At these critical junctures many organizations do little to prepare their employees for a mass layoff. The main purpose of this study is to examine how the incorporation of job counseling and professional retraining programs during a period of downsizing affected the responses of both the employees who were dismissed and those who remained in the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in a large metalwork factory in Isreal that underwent significant downsizing as a result of a major crisis. Interview data were collected from a sample comprising employees selected randomly from a list which the human resource department prepared. The analysis is based on a data set that included 229 employees.

Findings

Results indicate that that guidance and training programs have a two‐fold effect: first, dismissed employees who participated in these training programs had a more positive reaction to their dismissal than dismissed employees who did not participate in such training. Second, employability factors as well as personal and demographic attributes do not affect the participants' responses.

Originality/value

It is suggested that an appropriate downsizing process could produce effective responses on the part of the dismissed workers. Preparing individuals through participation in appropriate programs significantly promotes employee morale and reduces negative affective responses through consideration of the individual cost caused by the downsizing process. With appropriate downsizing plans, survivors' emotional reactions will not necessarily comprise only negative emotions but they may, under certain circumstances, also experience some positive emotions.
Effects of wage and promotion incentives on the motivation levels of Japanese employees
Authors: Takahashi Kiyoshi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the incentive effects in Japanese organizations where job security is valued. In particular, the study seeks to investigate the relative strengths of the effects of wage and promotion incentives on employees' motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted involving 1,823 Japanese employees working at the group companies of Toyota Motors. Multiple regression analyses were performed to separately analyze the effects on white‐collar (n=928) and blue‐collar (n=818) workers.

Findings

The results showed that both promotion and wages positively influence employees' work motivation. A comparison of the relative strengths of the effects reveals that fair promotion was a more powerful motivator than wage level and wage increase.

Originality/value

The reason why fairness in promotion was more effective than wage to motivate employees was discussed in light of the unique career system existing in Japanese companies and the agency problems between companies and their supervisors.
Boundaryless career and adaptive HR practices in Japan's hotel industry
Authors: Yamashita Masaru , Uenoyama Tatsuya
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at analyzing the underlying factors that encourage an increasing number of Japanese workers to move across the corporate boundaries in the course of career development, and then understanding the nature and the consequences of the corporate human resource practices in response to it.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors chose the Japanese hotel industry as the research object, since it is perceived as one of the industries in which the boundaryless career‐seeking behavior is more remarkable than others. A total of 18 hotel employees, including hotel managers, were approached as the samples of in‐depth interviews.

Findings

A grounded theory‐based analysis of the data collected has led to a causal relation map, which describes the relationship between their orientation in career development and the corporate human resource practices in response to it. The adaptive human resource practices had an influence on the behaviors of workers and furthermore made the mobility in workforce higher. In such circumstances, companies need to clarify the boundary between the core and the periphery within an organization for the purpose of protecting organizational knowledge, while the usual corporate boundary fades out.

Research limitations/implications

This paper researched Japan's hotel industry by in‐depth interviews and led to several findings. Future study should include more industries as a research site and quantitative analysis to generalize the findings.

Originality/value

Past research in the business organization studies indicates that organizational knowledge is one of the salient factors that encompass a firm's competitive advantage, and its accumulation is created by the human resources in a given organization. If this holds true, the increasing fluidity of workers beyond the organizational boundaries might well affect a firm's generation and retention of its organizational knowledge. This paper describes the prospects and a way out of this phenomenon.