bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Company oriented investment interest and cross‐border transactions under globalisation
Authors: Bitzenis Aristidis P.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate the trends of world foreign direct investment (FDI) flows during the last decades and to explore the reasons behind these trends and to examine the role of multinationals and their investment activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the statistical data of FDI flows throughout the world and on an action field research which was also based on multinationals' investment behaviour. The FDI trends and the role of multinationals are evaluated.

Findings

FDI can play a key role in improving the capacity of the host country to respond to the opportunities offered by global economic integration, a goal increasingly recognized as one of the key aims of any development strategy and an increased growth rate. World FDI inflows grew rapidly and faster than world GDP and world exports during the last two decades. There was a dramatic increase in FDI over the last decade (until 2000) which was based on globalisation and economic integration, technological improvements in communications, information processing and transportation, the changing framework of international competition and the deregulation of several key sectors. There was a dramatic decrease in FDI flows after the year 2000 due to the slowdown in the world economy. M&A deals are the most important driving factors behind overall FDI flows when at least one third (up to two third) of the total FDI flows are due to the M&A cross‐border deals.

Research limitations/implications

The research should be also be expanded in continents (for example, Asia, America) in order to examine the multinationals' investment activities and behaviour in order to conclude about the FDI trends more thoroughly.

Practical implications

More investment interest must be given to the developing or transition countries in which (where) the flows in absolute terms are too low. Moreover, the absence of large cross‐border merger and acquisitions in these countries, can obviously be explained by the lack of the existence of significant and well‐known large companies which could have the potential to become significant world players in the sector that they belong to.

Originality/value

It is a valuable paper for scholars, entrepreneurs and multinationals who prefer to understand the reasons behind the FDI trends and/or for the governments/politicians who prefer to create a framework in order to attract FDI flows to their countries by examining the experience of other countries.
Perceived uncertainty, networking and export performance
Authors: Babakus Emin , Yavas Ugur , Haahti Antti
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test model depicting the relationships among perceived environmental uncertainty, domestic and foreign networking, and export performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from Finland, Sweden and Norway serve as the study setting. Data were collected via mail surveys from random samples of SME owners/managers. Usable responses were 75 from Finland, 111 from Sweden and 71 from Norway.

Findings

Of the four dimensions of uncertainty, only uncertainty about supplier markets emerged as a significant driver of domestic networking activities of SMEs. While domestic networking did not have a significant influence, foreign networking showed a significant positive impact on SMEs' export performance. Firm size was found to have positive impacts on foreign networking and export performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to manufacturing SMEs in a particular region. Replications in other industries and regions are needed to validate the current findings. People from Finland, Norway and Sweden share similar cultural values and they are low on uncertainty‐avoidance. Hence, they are not threatened by environmental uncertainties and, consequently, may not feel compelled to engage in networking to reduce uncertainty.

Practical implications

The positive linkage between foreign networking and export performance suggests that public officials in these countries should encourage SMEs to strengthen their existing foreign networks and facilitate formation of new ones via trade missions in other countries.

Originality/value

Understanding the role of networking, as a potential buffer between environmental uncertainty and export performance, should be of interest to both researchers and practitioners.
An investigation into the death of organisations from old age in Turkey
Authors: Kasimoglu Murat
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the models which are used to analyse organisations as evolutionary adaptations to their environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses empirical data on the survival of business organisations in the Canakkkale region of Turkey to investigate the probability that they will cease to exist in any period of their operation.

Findings

There are indications of the effects predicted by both approaches; companies face heightened risk of death in three stages of their life.

Research limitations/implications

The number of companies in the study is small, and consequently the results have to be viewed with caution.

Originality/value

This study shows how information about actual organisations can be used effectively.
Work teams to favor knowledge management: towards communities of practice
Authors: Zárraga‐Oberty Celia , De Saá‐Pérez Petra
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide evidence about that the process calledknowledge managementcan happen in work teams, but only if they have the necessary characteristics to be considered communities of practice.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the paper identifies the characteristics of the work team that favor knowledge management from a revision of existing literature about communities of practice. Second, by means of an empirical study of 363 individuals working in permanent teams, the paper obtains confirmation that those characteristics exercise a favorable influence on knowledge management. The empirical study is carried out by means of statistical analysis: exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach'sαanalyses were carried out to check the validity and reliability of scales; conducted correlation analyses were also conducted to test the six hypotheses regarding direct relationships and multiple regression analyses to assess the relative importance of each of the characteristics of the work team in knowledge management.

Findings

Empirical evidence is obtained that knowledge management is favored in work teams that possess certain characteristics: self‐management, leadership, individual autonomy, climate of trust, common understanding, and the members' heterogeneous and complementary skills. The paper also provides a detailed examination of that relationship. Evidence is obtained about what characteristics of work teams favor the knowledge management process in its different phases (i.e. creation of knowledge, and transfer and integration of knowledge).

Research limitations/implications

On the one hand, the group rather than the individual would have been a more suitable unit of analysis. So, it should be noted that our findings are to be interpreted as individual perceptions. On the other hand, our scales represent new measures. So, they must be interpreted cautiously.

Practical implications

The paper provides evidence that will help companies to understand the value of knowledge to their success and to obtain maximum performance through the organization of their human resources into teams with the appropriate characteristics to become communities of practice.

Originality/value

This paper fills an empirical gap in the literature around communities of practice and knowledge management.
How international are the top academic journals? The case of marketing
Authors: Rosenstreich Daniela , Wooliscroft Ben
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the level of international involvement in the editorial boards and content of the leading journals of the marketing discipline to investigate a reported bias against non‐US material.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employed two approaches: editorial board and content analysis of ten leading marketing journals, and interviews with an expert panel of senior marketing academics.

Findings

The top journals of the marketing journal were found to have low levels of international involvement, with high proportions of both US authors and data, and US membership of editorial boards. The editorial board analysis also revealed institutional links with journal boards, and a network of overlapping membership between the editorial boards. The expert panel provided divergent views on reasons for the USA dominance, but the board analysis seemed to best fit with the suggestion of networks of scholars who are naturally inclined to favor research that fits their world view.

Practical implications

To improve publishing success under the current status quo, scholars can emulate the favored (US) research approach and writing style; network with the “right” people; or raise a new research paradigm to dominance. Journal editors can increase the diversity in editorial boards to encourage international involvement in their publications.

Originality/value

The research combines traditional empirical investigation with qualitative input via an expert panel to provide new insight into barriers to global dissemination of scholarly research.
Academic publishing
Authors: Gilmore Audrey , Carson David , Perry Chad
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Writing and publishing research is an integral part of any academic's job. It is important for an individual's academic progression and is vital for the development, updating and refinement of teaching materials. This paper aims to focus on the purpose and value of publishing.

Design/methodology/approach

Editors, reviewer and authors have different roles to play in the pre‐publishing life of a potential article and so the different perspectives of editors, reviewers and authors in relation to successful journal article publication are discussed.

Findings

The paper describes the process of preparing academic papers and a stage by stage approach to writing an article. This includes how to target a suitable journal, taking account of the editor, reviewers and potential readers of an article, how to write an academic article, with an appropriate structure and style, redrafting and sending a paper off for review and carrying out requested revisions.

Originality/value

The views expressed in this paper are based on the authors' combined experience of performing all three roles over a number of years. This experience has been enriched by participation in discussions at “meet the editors” sessions at a variety of academic conferences throughout the world, and from discussions of academic committees, in particular, the Academy of Marketing Research Committee during 2005.
Travel abroad or stay at home?
Authors: Figueira Catarina , Nellis Joseph , Schoenberg Richard
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the extent of bank industry consolidation across the European Union, the patterns that have emerged from the mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and the regulatory framework that underpins these processes. It aims to identify the key challenges that have to be addressed if M&As are to expand.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the reasons that have led some financial institutions to merge, both domestically and cross‐border, and the developments that have taken place in the economic, legal and political environment. The paper presents an empirical analysis of bank industry M&As within the EU between 1993‐2004 and identifies possible explanations for the patterns of consolidation.

Findings

The analysis provides evidence that M&As predominantly take place at the national level and that two main strategies have emerged, namely the consolidation of commercial banking and the creation of universal banking groups.

Research limitations/implications

Ten countries joined the EU in 2004 and are excluded from the analysis, due to data limitations.

Practical implications

More cross‐border mergers should be encouraged if EU countries are to continue to integrate their financial markets. Moreover, if universal banking groups do not succeed in exploiting the economies of scope on which they are founded, divestment of non‐core activities may follow, thus providing acquisition opportunities for others, with the resulting more focused organisations wishing to diversify geographically, via cross‐border M&A.

Originality/value

The study suggests that the limited cross‐border M&A activity observed may be due to the existence of non‐legislative barriers, such as internal control issues raised by geographic diversity and, more specifically, the perceived cultural barriers to pan‐European operation.
Audit quality attributes of European Union supreme audit institutions
Authors: Clark Colin , De Martinis Michael , Krambia‐Kapardis Maria
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To examine the enabling legislation of European Union (EU) member country supreme audit institutions (SAIs) for their accountability to parliament and independence from the executive arm of government.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises the SAIs of the 25 EU member countries and the European Court of Auditors. Data were collected on 30 accountability and independence issues directly from the enabling legislation of these SAIs.

Findings

Results indicate that apart from a number of instances where the enabling legislation is silent, provisions generally provide for adequate independence of the SAIs from the executive arm of government. On the other hand, the provisions for the accountability of the SAIs to parliament are somewhat weaker.

Research limitations/implications

If actual practice or convention does not reflect the literal interpretation and application of the enabling legislation, then SAIs may have more or less independence and/or accountability than suggested by the analysis of the legislation alone.

Practical implications

Results of this study highlight where current provisions could be further strengthened through appropriate amendments to the enabling legislation.

Originality/value

Such findings may be useful to policy makers and legislators.
Assessing the management status of South Africa
Authors: Nienaber Hester
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the status of management in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

This is achieved by firstly, providing a concise summary of the classical management theory. This is followed by a presentation of selected dimensions of South Africa's economic, social and political profile (cultural profile), as reflected in secondary sources. A discussion of South Africa's profile vis‐à‐vis management theory is presented.

Findings

The findings show that South Africa is faced with unique competitive challenges, which fall within the realm of management. Unfortunately, the unavailability of competent senior managers forms part of South Africa's problem, aggravating the situation.

Practical implications

The practical implications are that South African managers need to face their reality, by acquainting themselves with the sound theory underpinning management, available from reputable sources and applying these principles with insight. In so doing they will not only improve the competitive positions of their enterprises but also that of South Africa, as a whole. Moreover, they will impact the economy positively, be it domestically, regionally or globally and reap the benefits of success just like other firms and countries.

Originality/value

This paper is original in the sense that it seeks to give a comprehensive, however, brief overview of a complex topic, classical management, while linking it to South Africa's unique challenges. The value of this script lies in the concise presentation of classical management thought and the consequent implication that its consistent application could play a vital role in overcoming the competitive challenges facing South Africa.
Learning‐based fuzzy colour prediction system for more effective apparel design
Authors: Hui Chi‐Leung , Lau Tak‐Wah , Ng Sau‐Fun , Chan Chun‐Chung
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to design and develop a learning‐based fuzzy colour prediction system for providing more effective apparel design in computer‐aided design system.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we propose using a fuzzy system integrated with preliminary knowledge of colour prediction for facilitating apparel design. The performance of the proposed system is evaluated in terms of its computational efficiency and robustness. In addition, the proposed system is evaluated by target group of customers.

Findings

It was found that the performance of the proposed system is better than the traditional approach.

Research limitations/implications

Although the proposed system has some limitations, the outcome of this study could be used to produce a future breakthrough in providing an intelligent computer‐aided design system for apparel product.

Originality/value

Using such an approach, an apparel designer could predict the favourite colours of garment for a target group of customers. The system uses preliminary knowledge about the customers' profiles and evaluations. Such fuzzy approach for colour prediction is established, which is not used in a traditional way in apparel design.
A new way of understanding the customer for fibre manufacturers
Authors: Lofthouse Vicky , Bhamra Tracy , Burrow Tom
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper describes the novel approach taken in a collaborative research project that aimed to investigate new ways of understanding the customer, for Derby‐based fibre manufacturer, Tencel Limited. The overall aim of the research described in this paper, was to help identify and establish a significant retail programme with a major UK store group for Tencel limited.

Design/methodology/approach

In an iterative process, the target customer for the focus groups was identified, the main aims of the process were discussed, the test garments were identified and the empathic design tools were adapted. The team developed a programme of activities that would capture customer focused information on these critical issues.

Findings

Using the Grove techniques helped to make the project transparent and inclusive, and enabled the whole team to be involved in the decision‐making process. Using these techniques have provided Tencel with a non‐scientific way of understanding how their end customer perceives their fibre, providing unequivocal evidence of the customer true feelings recorded as “raw” video based evidence.

Practical implications

The Tencel/IF project has also led to a number of additional advantages for the company, such as the development of new relationships within the supply chain, the development of new relationships within Tencel and the enhancement of multi‐disciplinary team working and concurrent engineering.

Originality/value

This paper has presented the novel approach that the combined Tencel/IF team took to develop a better understanding of the end customer and illustrates how techniques which were developed for one industry can be successfully adapted and applied to a quite different industry with excellent results.
Analysis of the modeling methodologies for predicting the sewing thread consumption
Authors: Jaouadi M. , Msahli S. , Babay A. , Zitouni B.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a rapid and accurate method to predict the amount of sewing thread required to make up a garment.

Design/methodology/approach

Three modeling methodologies are analyzed in this paper: theoretical model, linear regression model and artificial neural network model. The predictive power of each model is evaluated by comparing the estimated thread consumption with the actual values measured after the unstitching of the garment with regression coefficient R2 and the root mean square error.

Findings

Both the regression analysis and neural network can predict the quantity of yarn required to sew a garment. The obtained results reveal that the neural network gives the best accurate prediction.

Research limitations/implications

This study is interesting for industrial application, where samples are taken for different fabrics and garments, thus a large body of data is available.

Practical implications

The paper has practical implications in the clothing and other textile‐making‐up industry. Unused stocks can be reduced and stock rupture avoided.

Originality/value

The results can be used by industry to predict the amount of yarn required to sew a garment, and hence enable a reliable estimation of the garment cost and raw material required.
Automatic segmenting and measurement on scanned human body
Authors: Zhong Yueqi , Xu Bugao
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper presents methods and algorithms to automatically segment and measure the human body.

Design/methodology/approach

In the segmentation procedure, two different methods are designed to find the crotch point for the situation of non‐contacted thigh and contacted thigh, respectively. Three different methods: minimum distance algorithm, minimum inclination angle algorithm, and directional neighbor identification algorithm are introduced to search the branching points or triangle. In the body measurement procedure, a pre‐sorted circling method is designed for circumference measurement, and the basic principle of landmark acquisition has been discussed. These techniques are validated via testing over different type of scanned model.

Findings

The results of automatic segmentation and body measurement have verified that our methods are efficient and versatile in processing different type of scanned body.

Research limitations/implications

The accurate and automatic locating of wrist, ankle and knees contour can be more difficult than it appears to be.

Practical implications

The main usage of scanned body in our research is for 3D garment try‐on.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the methods for crotch identification, and the methods including minimum distance algorithm, minimum inclination angle algorithm, and directional neighbor identification algorithm for human body segmentation. It also explains the fundamental measuring techniques, and outlines the results of using these techniques in segmentation and measurement.
Interactive garment pattern design using virtual scissoring method
Authors: Hwan Sul In , Jin Kang Tae
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The designing and initial alignments of 2D garment patterns in 3D space are the key procedures in 3D apparel design. This paper presents a new methodology to prepare and edit initial pattern shape in 3D space by simulating virtual cloth scissoring.

Design/methodology/approach

In conventional apparel CAD tools, flat 2D patterns are drawn and sewn in 3D space. Thus, the final appearance of 3D garment cannot be easily predictable for non‐specialized personnel from the flat patterns. This paper adopts the real pattern designing method of “draping”, incorporating it into computer‐based designing so that the user can realistically cut, sew and add the cloth by only using a mouse. 2D and 3D meshes are edited simultaneously and thus a flattening process is not needed.

Findings

Several mesh‐based operations such as cutting, sewing, adding, and fixing are devised and have been successfully applied to virtual garment cutting.

Practical implications

Our new pattern drawing method has an advantage that designer can look and feel the garment appearance interactively during the design process. Virtual cutting is identical to the real pattern draping technique and is easy to adopt for designers.

Originality/value

With current computer hardware speed and through using the drape simulation technique, it was possible to drape and cut cloth in real‐time. In addition, both the 3D pattern and 2D flat pattern could be simultaneously acquired.
Proactive product development integrating consumer requirements
Authors: May‐Plumlee Traci , Little Trevor J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper presents a model for an effective product development process, which is now becoming increasingly critical to success of apparel firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This research modeled apparel product development as a market driven process and integrated the consumer purchase decision in the model of proactive product development integrating consumer requirements (PPDICR). The PPDICR links the consumer purchase decision and multiple consumer research strategies to specific stages of the no‐interval coherently phased product development model for apparel through 15 avenues of consumer input.

Findings

The PPDICR model contributes to our understanding on how consumer input can be used to facilitate the process and through what avenues that input may be acquired. This model provides an effective tool for intra‐company to inter‐business analysis of consumer input into the apparel product development process.

Research limitations/implications

The PPDICR provides a theoretical understanding of apparel production, and is useful to researchers in visualizing the impact of changes in the business environment, integrating research projects, and establishing research priorities.

Practical implications

Practitioners may use the model to improve and develop products, select appropriate consumer input, and strategically plan organizational changes.

Originality/value

This model is a useful tool for effective product development both for researchers and industrialists alike. It brings in the important element of the integration of consumer information.
Prediction of the air permeability of woven fabrics using neural networks
Authors: Çay Ahmet , Vassiliadis Savvas , Rangoussi Maria , Tarakçıoğlu Işık
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The target of the current work is the creation of a model for the prediction of the air permeability of the woven fabrics and the water content of the fabrics after the vacuum drying.

Design/methodology/approach

There have been produced 30 different woven fabrics under certain weft and warp densities. The values of the air permeability and water content after the vacuum drying have been measured using standard laboratory techniques. The structural parameters of the fabrics and the measured values have been correlated using techniques like multiple linear regression and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). The ANN and especially the generalized regression ANN permit the prediction of the air permeability of the fabrics and consequently of the water content after vacuum drying. The performance of the related models has been evaluated by comparing the predicted values with the respective experimental ones.

Findings

The predicted values from the nonlinear models approach satisfactorily the experimental results. Although air permeability of the textile fabrics is a complex phenomenon, the nonlinear modeling becomes a useful tool for its prediction based on the structural data of the woven fabrics.

Originality/value

The air permeability and water content modeling support the prediction of the related physical properties of the fabric based on the design parameters only. The vacuum drying performance estimation supports the optimization of the industrial drying procedure.
A model for the twist distribution in the slub‐yarn
Authors: Lu Yuzheng , Gao Weidong , Wang Hongbo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to build a mathematical model to deduct the twists distribution in the slub‐yarn.

Design/methodology/approach

The model, considering the shearing modulus and polar moment of inertia of the yarn, influenced by the yarn density, is established based on the bar torsion model. The twists distribution in the slub‐yarn is concluded based on the analysis of the results. The rules were verified via an indirect method, by testing the breaking strength of the slub‐yarn.

Findings

The results of the analysis showed that twists in every section of the slub‐yarn are in inverse proportion to the square of the line density of the corresponding section. Slub length is a key factor to the twist in the base yarn, and the increase of the slub length will increase the twist; while the multiple is the key factor to the slub twist, and the enhancement of the multiple will decrease the twist significantly.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis cannot be verified via a direct method. A new, more conceivable direct method should be utilized to test the result.

Originality/value

The paper builds a base for the research of the mechanical properties of slub‐yarn and gives directions to the slub‐yarn production.
Dimensional characteristics of core spun cotton‐spandex 1×1 rib knitted fabrics in laundering
Authors: Herath C.N. , Choon Kang Bok
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to study the dimensional characteristics such as fabric density variations, dimensional constant parameters, linear and area dimensional changes and spirality angle variations of 1 × 1 rib knitted structures made from cotton‐spandex core spun yarns, under laundering regimes till 10th washing cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples of the above fabrics underwent dry, wet and full relaxation treatments and were subjected to standard atmospheric conditions prior to take the measurements. Washing was done in a front loading machine under normal agitation with machine 56 RPM. Each washing regime includes wash, rinse, spin, tumble dry steps. Washing temperature was set at 40°C and water intake for washing was 30 l and rinsed with cold water. 0.1 g/l standard wetting agent was used. The mass of the load was maintained constant to 3 kg to keep the material ratio as 1:10. Washing regimes were continued till 10th cycle.

Findings

Cotton‐spandex rib structures came to a more stable state (minimum energy state) after 10th laundering cycle under the experimental conditions. Cotton did not come to such a state, even after 10th cycle proceeded. ANOVA analysis done under 95 percent confidential level has shown that fabric tightness and relaxation procedures give significant effect on dimensional characteristics of cotton‐spandex and cotton rib structures. However, area shrinkage variations of cotton rib fabrics have shown an exception to this.

Research limitations/implications

According to the dimensional constant values, evenafter 10th washing cycle, cotton rib structures did not come to a stable position. This should be further investigated to achieve a better stable rib knitted structure.

Practical implications

The number of washing cycles can be increased or tumble dry duration can be increased to 120 min. to get a more stable state of cotton rib structures.

Originality/value

The results are important for the knitting industry to predict the dimensional behavior of designed knitted fabric under relaxation. These data can be used to set the circular machine parameters to achieve a more stable fabric after laundering.
Experimental analysis and modelling of textile transmission line for wearable applications
Authors: Chedid Michel , Belov Ilja , Leisner Peter
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks, by means of measurement and modelling, to evaluate frequency dependent per‐unit‐length parameters of conductive textile transmission line (CTTL) for wearable applications and to study deterioration of these parameters when CTTL is subjected to washing.

Design/methodology/approach

The studied transmission line is made of Nickel/Copper (Ni/Cu) plated polyester ripstop fabric and is subjected to standard 60°C cycle in a commercial off‐the‐shelf washing machine. The per‐unit‐length parameters (resistance and inductance) and characteristic impedance of the line are extracted from measurements before and after washing. Using the measurement data an equivalent circuit is created to model the degradation of the line. The circuit is then integrated in a three‐dimensional transmission line matrix (TLM) model of the transmission line.

Findings

Both an electrical equivalent circuit and a TLM model are developed describing the degradation of the conductive textile when washed. A severe deterioration of the electrical parameters of the line is noticed. Experimental and modelling results are in good agreement in the addressed frequency band.

Research limitations/implications

Analysis is performed for frequencies up to 10 MHz. The developed TLM model can be used to conduct parametric studies of the CTTL. To counteract the degradation of the line, protective coating is to be considered in further studies.

Originality/value

This paper extends knowledge of the subject by experimental and simulation‐based characterization of the CTTL when subjected to washing cycles.
Gender differs: assessing a model of online purchase intentions in e‐tail service
Authors: Chiu Yu‐Bin , Lin Chieh‐Peng , Tang Ling‐Lang
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study proposes a model of online purchase intentions. Four exogenous constructs – namely, personal awareness of security, personal innovativeness, perceived ease of purchasing, and perceived usefulness – have not only direct influences on attitudes and online purchase intentions, but also have indirect influences on online purchase intentions through the mediation of attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via questionnaires from customers of the leading internet service provider (ISP) in Taiwan. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine the model.

Findings

The influences of personal innovativeness and perceived usefulness on attitudes and online purchase intentions are similar for males and females. The influences of personal awareness of security on both attitudes and online purchase intentions are strong for males, while no such effects exist for females. The influences of perceived ease of purchasing on both attitudes and online purchase intentions are stronger for females than for males.

Research limitations/implications

There are several limitations. For example, there may exist common method variance, and the generalisability of the findings might be limited. Besides, this study is using only one product category, and customers' online purchase intentions may be only partially reflected due to the investigation of self‐reports.

Practical implications

By learning gender differences, e‐tailers and advertisers can better target right consumers and consequently foster more positive attitudes and online purchase intentions.

Originality/value

This study presents a thorough understanding on a model of online purchase intentions, and how gender moderates several paths of the model.
The role of customer clubs in recent telecom relationships
Authors: Roos Inger , Gustafsson Anders , Edvardsson Bo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to enhance understanding of the club's role in the customer relationships of a telecommunications company by re‐considering the concepts of frequency and commitment in a telecom‐customer club.

Design/methodology/approach

We interviewed telecom customers that were members of a Swedish telecom company's customer club. The approach was to understand the customer evaluation of the customer club. We conducted 44 in‐depth interviews with members of the loyalty club.

Findings

We found an umbrella concept for the club regarding loyalty: a keeping function, which divided the customer club in two ways: the affective role makes the customer stay with the company and the calculative role with a more inferred loyalty function. The expressions that were not connected to loyalty is the attracting function.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of our qualitative study include the small sample size, and it represents only one kind of industry and one company.

Originality/value

The first contribution of this study is the new perspective of customer clubs in the telecommunications industry on customer relationships. The implication is that customers do not always consider all parts of the club when they stay loyal, and not always think about it when they plan future behaviour.The second contribution is the result regarding re‐consideration of the frequency concept. Bearing in mind the delimitations, the calculative role dominated the affective role. Thirty‐three of the 44 members said that their club was of minor importance in terms of relationship continuation. The calculative role is, accordingly, dominant.
Relationships among customer orientation, service orientation and job satisfaction in financial services
Authors: Gil Saura Irene , Berenguer Contrí Gloria , Cervera Taulet Amparo , Moliner Velázquez Beatriz
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The present study attempts to contribute to the knowledge of how customer orientation (CO), service orientation (SO) and job satisfaction (JS) are defined and relate to each other. It explores the relationships between CO and JS by analysing a company providing intermediation services to the banking sector, in its external finance division.

Design/methodology/approach

After the literature review, the method of empirical analysis consisting in quantitative intervention with an ad hoc survey using a structured questionnaire was developed. Regression analysis with mediation is used to contrast the hypotheses on the links between the constructs analysed.

Findings

Both reliability and factorial analysis of the scales used provided satisfactory results. CO was found to produce mediated effects, through SO, on overall JS. The mediator role was identified as human resources management practice, service systems practice and service leadership practice. In addition, in all cases, a direct, positive association was found between SO practices and CO.

Research limitations/implications

First, the use of just one company invites a repeat study in other companies in the sector and in other service contexts. Second, cross‐cultural approaches to the constructs analysed would be interesting. Third, it may be relevant to use longitudinal approaches for a better understanding of the dynamic behaviour of the variables analysed. Fourth, attaining all of data from employees invites to future measures of the constructs taken from different sources. Future research needs to be done on the service profit chain theory to incorporate both customer and financial performance variables.

Practical implications

The results should lead managers to consider the importance of emphasizing those organizational cues that help build a SO climate in their organizations.

Originality/value

This paper further acknowledges the links between the constructs being studied, on the basis of employees' perceptions. It was found that CO produces mediated effects, through SO, on overall JS.
Matrix: a double functional business classification scheme
Authors: José del Olmo María
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to present the Business Classification Scheme used by the Directorate General Environment of the European Commission.

Design/methodology/approach

The classification was developed following the functional methodology commonly recommended by existing records management guidelines and standards.

Findings

The outcome of the analysis is a double classification system that has been represented in a table. At the end level, the classes of both classifications coincide to define the same individual transactions. One of the classifications defines them as sub‐types of business activities and the other as the subjects or field of application of business operations.

Practical implications

The scheme reflects the different points of view that horizontal and line units have over the same groups of documents. In this sense, it facilitates document sharing and collaboration. It also promotes the organisation of records into similar types of files and, in so doing, facilitates management operations.

Originality/value

The table format gives visibility to the relations between transversal processes and business areas that constitute the activities of an organisation. These cannot be represented in a linear classification.
Applying the strategy‐structure‐performance paradigm to the supply chain environment
Authors: Clifford Defee C. , Stank Theodore P.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper extends a central paradigm of the strategy literature to the supply chain environment to foster a better understanding of the elements characterizing strategic decisions that lead to supply chain structural development and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Strategic literature is reviewed to provide a fuller explanation of the strategy‐structure‐performance (SSP) research stream. SSP foundational principles are linked to supply chain management concepts, and synthesized into an explanatory framework. Propositions for future research are presented based upon the framework.

Findings

An iterative relationship among internal firm strategy, structure, and performance measurement systems is indicated, implying that firm supply chain strategy should be complementary with that of supply chain partners.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents a content analysis of existing research and a conceptual framework emerging from it. No data were collected nor were research propositions tested.

Practical implications

The primary implication is “know your supply chain partners”. Do their strategies mesh – either as consistent or complementary – to your own firm's supply chain strategy? Strategic alignment is a necessary precursor to deployment of an effective supply chain structure.

Originality/value

The paper shows that SSP theory can be extended beyond the firm to the complex supply chain environment.
Logistics flexibility and its impact on customer satisfaction
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Vonderembse Mark A. , Lim Jeen‐Su
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To succeed in an uncertain environment, firms must respond to changing customer needs, and logistics flexibility is an important part of the response. This paper defines logistics flexibility, creates a framework to understand it, and shows how it relates to customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a large sample survey (n=273) from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers to develop valid and reliable instruments to measure logistics flexibility and to test the relationships among the variables using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate strong, positive, and direct relationships between flexible logistics competence and capability, and between flexible logistics capability and customer satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

The dependent and independent variables were measured through a single respondent, which may introduce common‐method bias. The respondents were manufacturing executives, which provides only a single perspective.

Practical implications

The dichotomy of flexible logistics competence and capability can help managers differentiate between the elements of logistics flexibility that are critical to customers from the elements that support these capabilities. Standing alone, flexible competence may not be sufficient to build a sustainable competitive edge.

Originality/value

The paper organizes literature on logistics flexibility and classifies it according to competence and capability theory. It describes a framework to explore the relationships among flexible competence, flexible capability, and customer satisfaction.
A cross country comparison of careers in logistics management in Australia and Britain
Authors: Burcher Peter G. , Lee Gloria L. , Sohal Amrik S.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The aim of this research was to ascertain the current roles and responsibilities of logistics managers in two countries, how they compare their situation with other managers and to identify the types of knowledge and experience that would assist them to develop their careers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper compares the results of a postal survey of 303 Australian and 161 British logistics managers.

Findings

The study indicates that logistics managers in both countries share many similar experiences, responsibilities and perceptions of their career situations. They take considerable pride and satisfaction from these careers but recognise the need for continuing professional development in their present and future roles.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the respondents to the surveys. Further research in other countries including less well‐developed economies would add to the generalisation of results.

Practical implications

It is argued that for successful international supply chain management, there is a need to review both current and future provision in higher education and continuing professional development, in order to strengthen strategic competences and increase understanding of the significance of interdisciplinary awareness in global markets.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first attempt to understand the roles, responsibilities, career pathways and future needs of logistics managers in the two countries. Its results should provide guidance to top managers for the future success of the logistics function in their organisations.
Supply chain collaboration: what's happening?
Authors: Min Soonhong , Roath Anthony S. , Daugherty Patricia J. , Genchev Stefan E. , Chen Haozhe , Arndt Aaron D. , Glenn Richey R.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Collaboration has been referred to as the driving force behind effective supply chain management and may be the ultimate core capability. However, there is a fairly widespread belief that few firms have truly capitalized on its potential. A study was undertaken to assess the current level of supply chain collaboration and identify best practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Supply chain executives provided insights into collaboration. Survey data, personal interviews, and a review of the collaboration literature were used to develop a conceptual model profiling behavior, culture, and relational interactions associated with successful collaboration.

Findings

Positive collaboration‐related outcomes include enhancements to efficiency, effectiveness, and market positions for the respondents' firms.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size represents a limitation, but is balanced by the quality of the respondent base and their expertise/experience. Another limitation involves securing input from only one party to the collaborative relationships. Developing a longitudinal study would help determine how collaboration‐related factors and relationships change over time.

Practical implications

Several respondents mentioned a “blurring of lines” between organizations contrasted to an “us vs them” approach. This was expressed in a number of different ways – treating the arrangements as if they both were part of the same operation, treating them as co‐owned, and employing a new focus on the best common solution. Many of the respondents indicating rewards are not distributed evenly still admitted they get enough “out of” the collaborative arrangements to make it worthwhile.

Originality/value

Real‐world practical experiences are recounted involving many of today's top companies.