bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resistance to ritual practice: exploring perceptions of others
Authors: Nuttall Peter , Tinson Julie
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the special issue theme by exploring the perceptions of anti‐consumption and resistant practices of adolescents by their peer group in the context of high school prom attendance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a mixed methods approach involving 12 in‐depth interviews with those who had attended a high school prom in the last three years and open questions on a survey to adolescents.

Findings

Four main perceptions of non‐attendance were identified: non‐choice, risk aversion, passive disengagement and intentional disengagement. Perceptions of anti‐consumption and resistance will have social implications for the non‐attendee/s but the extent to which non‐attendance is viewed negatively will also be moderated by existing social status of the non‐attendee/s.

Originality/value

Possible causes for avoiding consumption have been previously considered, however, as yet unexplored are how those who do not consume are perceived by their peers and how this manifests itself in relation to group affiliation, attendees' perception of “self” and social norms.
Consumer resistance between conflict and cooperation: the extreme case of orphan drugs
Authors: Chalamon Isabelle
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how consumer groups with limited resources and means of action are able to resist market pressures and how they are sometimes able to modify corporate practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was carried out in France concerning the mobilization of patients suffering from rare diseases. Two data sources are used: semi‐structured interviews and documentary sources.

Findings

In this extreme context, the activists fight to expand the reach of existing market institutions so that those who do not have access to a treatment can finally benefit from the existence of a drug. In order to reach this goal, activists need to collaborate with the incumbents so that the system can be reformed from the inside. Resistance then becomes a productive act of power for the targeted firms.

Originality/value

This paper emphasizes a case of minor resistance whose aim is not to radically change the market system but rather to propose moderate adjustments which would allow existing market institutions to extend their reach. It also underlines the cooperative and productive dimensions of certain acts of resistance. Finally, by highlighting a case of pro‐consumption resistance, this paper adds to the current debate on the distinction between resistance and anti‐consumption.
Consumer cynicism
Authors: Odou Philippe , de Pechpeyrou Pauline
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a new perspective on resistance and anti‐consumption literature by relating it to consumer cynicism.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proceeds to a conceptual deconstruction of consumer cynicism by comparing the contemporary meaning of the term with the original signification of cynicism, contrasting the psychological approach with the philosophical one. This perspective sheds light on disparate forms of consumer cynicism found in previous research.

Findings

Four different figures of consumption related to cynicism were distinguished in this paper. Defensive cynicism and offensive cynicism are psychological tools used to neutralize persuasion attempts or divert marketing techniques. Subversive cynicism and ethical cynicism, which are reminiscences of cynicism in Ancient Greece, challenge the consumerist ideology and even propose an alternative ethics.

Originality/value

Prior research on consumer cynicism has focused on the defensive psychological dimension of the concept, limiting it to a coping device for deceived consumers. Three other facets have been explored in this paper and provide a broader framework that can account for the disparate manifestations observed in the resistance and anti‐consumption literature. This new conceptualization of consumer cynicism could also explain why consumers' disappointment with private consumption does not always lead to public involvement.
Rethinking resistance and anti‐consumption behaviours in the light of the concept of deviance
Authors: Amine Abdelmajid , Gicquel Yohan
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address an under‐researched issue in marketing, atypical consumption behaviours. More particularly it focuses on the deviant behaviours of consumers in a commercial or consumption situation and on their reactions in regard to the market system.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on multidisciplinary literature, this work articulates the concepts of deviance, resistance and anti‐consumption. It looks at the interactions between these concepts and positions deviant, resistant and anti‐consumption behaviours in relation to the norm.

Findings

Through the notion of deviance, the research provides a new framework clearly differentiating and articulating the concepts of resistant and anti‐consumption behaviours. This integrative framework is sufficiently flexible and broad to cover and position the various behaviours and practices involving consumption rejection, opposition and avoidance.

Originality/value

This contribution answers a need for theoretical clarification of consumers' behaviours that challenge and oppose the market system and culture of consumption. By mobilising the concept of deviance, this research provides an original topological model that increases understanding and positions the concepts of resistant and anti‐consumption behaviours around the notion of social norm.
Role modelling in manager development: learning that which cannot be taught
Authors: Warhurst Russell
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This is an empirical article which aims to examine the extent and nature of management role modelling and the learning achieved from role modelling. The article argues that the spread of taught management development and formal mentoring programmes has resulted in the neglect of practice‐knowledge and facets of managerial character formation, the learning of which are largely attributable to informal role modelling.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical research was conducted with middle manager respondents who compiled portfolios of images representing the process of their “becoming” managers. Respondents then participated in in‐depth interviews to explore their portfolios.

Findings

Respondents typically learned from observing several positive role models and at least one negative role model. Positive role models were selected on the basis of charisma but also competence and contextual compatibility. The key lessons respondents learned from role models involved values, attitudes and ethical stances.

Research limitations/implications

The research study was limited to a particular group of middle managers, MBA student‐managers and recent graduates and ways of extending the research are suggested. Implications for HRD research include the significance of social learning in managers' lives and of social learning theory in explicating the processes of manager development.

Practical implications

Managers require training in recognising the contribution of role models to their practice, in selecting role models and in deriving learning from role models.

Originality/ value

Management role modelling has been little researched to date. Through in‐depth qualitative research and analysis, the article addresses this gap.
Using English as the common corporate language in a German multinational
Authors: Swift Jonathan S. , Wallace James
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine a German multinational that uses English as the common corporate language (CCL) for internal communications with its international subsidiaries/agencies. It examines use of English within the workplace, and problems/opportunities it presents to those who use it.

Design/methodology

The questionnaire was piloted with a German employee on placement in the UK. The e‐mail questionnaire was then used to collect data from a random sample of 10 per cent (142) of respondents in non‐English‐speaking countries, using the company database.

Findings

CCL is supported by employees and English is used widely: a total of 90 per cent of respondents need to speak English for their job, and wish to continue English training – a virtuous circle of instrumental motivation. Varying levels of fluency create problems in meetings, and dissuade some from contributing. Whilst most wish to continue their English training, few currently take lessons.

Practical implications

In meetings, use handouts, and remind those with greater fluency to speak more slowly, and not use colloquialisms/idioms. Language audit is needed, to allow a more targeted training programme, based on levels of competence. Conversation classes with native English speakers: for higher levels of competence, focus on slang expressions, idioms and colloquialisms. Job rotation in English‐speaking countries – on return, employees help with language classes and cultural briefings. Selective recruitment across the company's global network.

Originality/value

The study examines many aspects of CCL use, and as such, should provide a useful indicator of areas that other researchers might like to examine in greater detail in future.
A comparative study of the returns on Mudhārabah deposit and on equity in Islamic banks
Authors: Diaw Abdou , Mbow Abdoulaye
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The paper aims to compare the return on Mudhārabah deposits (ROMD) to the return on equity (ROE) in Islamic banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The summary statistics of the ROMD and the ROE is used to make a comparison between them with a sample of nine Islamic banks, from seven countries, over the last five years. Regression analysis is also undertaken to unveil the variables affecting the behaviour of ROMD and ROE at Kuwait Finance House.

Findings

The results show that the ROE tend to be at least two times higher than the ROMD. In most of the investigated cases the ROMD are more correlated to the corresponding conventional interest rate than to ROE. The regression analysis suggests that the return on assets affects more significantly the ROE than the ROMD.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper resides in the size of the sample and in the design and the findings.
The feasibility of effectual ethics on the foundations of micro and macro issues of economics
Authors: Tohidinia Abolghasem
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the feasibility of effectual ethics on foundations of micro and macro issues of economics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the library research method has been used to reflect some ideas about the necessity of changing the concept of economic rationality and modifying it from some famous economists.

Findings

The entrance of ethics in economic discussions may affect them and suggests the new solutions or make considerable quantitative or qualitative changes to them.

Research limitations/implications

If research is reported on in the paper this section must be completed and should include suggestions for future research and any identified limitations in the research process.

Practical implications

It may be possible to objectify the extended rationality presumption by revising public culture and correcting it in such a way that ethical values and norm are institutionalized in society.

Social implications

This research shows that if ethical values and norms beyond economic benefits are institutionalized in a society, economic outcomes seen in economic books may be otherwise.

Originality/value

Comparative analysis of different effects of the two concepts of rationality – economic rationality and extended rationality – on life‐cycle hypothesis and efficiency of pollution tax shows new solutions or makes considerable quantitative or qualitative changes to them because of ethics.
Cycle commuting and perceptions of barriers: stages of change, gender and occupation
Authors: van Bekkum Jennifer E. , Williams Joanne M. , Graham Morris Paul
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate perceptions of cycle commuting barriers in relation to stage of change, gender and occupational role. Stage of change is a key construct of the transtheoretical model of behaviour change that defines behavioural readiness (intentions and actions) into five distinct categories.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross‐sectional online questionnaire was completed by staff and PhD students (n=831) based in cycle‐friendly buildings in a large UK university. The questionnaire included questions relating to demographics, stages of behaviour change and 18 potential barriers. Data were analysed using t‐tests, one‐way ANOVAs and two‐way ANOVAs.

Findings

Overall, environmental factors were perceived as the biggest barriers to cycle commuting. However, perceptions of cycle commuting barriers significantly differed between stages of change, genders and occupational roles. Precontemplators, females and support staff commonly perceived greater barriers to cycle commuting compared to maintainers, males and academic staff.

Practical implications

The results indicate that tailored individual‐level behaviour change interventions focusing on reducing perceptions of barriers that take into account stage of change, gender and occupational differences may play a role in encouraging people to cycle to work.

Originality/value

The study reveals evidence of a significant subjective element involved in perception formation of some potential barriers associated with cycle commuting. Women not only hold stronger perceptions compared to males of risk‐orientated barriers but also of more general barriers associated with cycle commuting. The findings also suggest that occupational roles may influence an individual's perceptions of cycle commuting barriers.
The design of a smokefree home leaflet and home pack: a Guernsey case study
Authors: Amey Vidya
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the beliefs and attitudes of young mothers in relation to smokefree homes and passive smoke in Guernsey, and to encourage them to contribute to the designing of a smokefree home leaflet and pack aimed at young mothers.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants (aged 17‐23 years).

Findings

Most participants were smokers, however, they all knew what passive smoke was and asserted that their homes were smokefree. Even if they were unable to list specific impacts of second hand smoke on children, they all agreed that children should be protected. A few of them described the difficulties in telling people not to smoke around their children in other people's homes and in cars. Moreover, some young mothers said that they found it hard to persuade their partners not to smoke around the children.

Originality/value

This paper presents the respondents ideas for promoting and supporting smokefree homes for young mothers and informing a smokefree home leaflet and home pack: providing information about passive smoking during parenting sessions, preferably after the baby has been born; giving parents a pack with giveaways linked to smokefree homes; encouraging parents to be assertive to friends and family who try to smoke around children; and getting both partners involved.
Knowledge mediation and overlapping in interfirm networks
Authors: Mariotti Francesca
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The literature on interfirm networks devotes scant attention to the ways collaborating firms combine and integrate the knowledge they share and to the subsequent learning outcomes. This study aims to investigate how motorsport companies use network ties to share and recombine knowledge and the learning that occurs both at the organizational and dyadic network levels.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a qualitative and inductive approach with the aim of developing theory from an in‐depth examination of the dyadic ties between motorsport companies and the way they share and recombine knowledge.

Findings

The research shows that motorsport companies having substantial competences at managing knowledge flows do so by getting advantage of bridging ties. While bridging ties allow motorsport companies to reach distant and diverse sources of knowledge, their strengthening and the formation of relational capital facilitate the mediation and overlapping of that knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis rests on a qualitative account in a single industry and does not take into account different types of inter‐firm networks (e.g. alliances; constellations; consortia etc.) and governance structures. Cross‐industry analyses may provide a more fine‐grained picture of the practices used to recombine knowledge and the ideal composition of inter‐firm ties.

Practical implications

This study provides some interesting implications for scholars and managers concerned with the management of innovation activities at the interfirm level. From a managerial point of view, the recognition of the different roles played by network spanning connections is particularly salient and raises issues concerning the effective design and management of interfirm ties.

Originality/value

Although much of the literature emphasizes the role of bridging ties in connecting to diverse pools of knowledge, this paper goes one step further and investigates in more depth how firms gather and combine distant and heterogeneous sources of knowledge through the use of strengthened bridging ties and a micro‐context conducive to high quality relationships.
Organizational factors to support knowledge management and innovation
Authors: Donate Mario Javier , Guadamillas Fátima
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze how organizational factors such as cultural values, leadership and human resource (HR) practices influence knowledge exploration and exploitation practices and innovation via an empirical study.

Design/methodology/approach

From the knowledge‐based view of the firm, six hypotheses were established and statistically tested in a sample of 111 Spanish companies belonging to innovative industries. Survey methodology was used with the aim of gathering data regarding knowledge management (KM) practices and certain, related organizational aspects in firms.

Findings

This paper provides evidence of a moderating effect of knowledge‐centered culture, knowledge‐oriented leadership and knowledge‐centered HR practices in the relationship between knowledge exploration and exploitation practices and innovation outcomes of companies. In line with previous literature, it is suggested that although KM practices are important on their own for innovation purposes, when certain enablers – organizational factors to overcome human barriers to KM – are properly established, the innovation capacity of the firm can be more successfully exploited.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to high rate innovation industries. Future studies will include other industries and a more diverse sample of firms.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that managers should place attention on knowledge exploration and exploitation practices along with several organizational enablers in order to achieve high levels of innovation results for the company.

Originality/value

This paper provides new empirical evidence on the relationships between KM, organizational elements such as culture, leadership, HR practices, and innovation in a large sample of firms. To date, the empirical research of these relations has been mainly limited to descriptive case studies and there is thus a lack of empirical evidence with large samples of firms.
Innovation as a knowledge‐based outcome
Authors: Quintane Eric , Mitch Casselman R. , Sebastian Reiche B. , Nylund Petra A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide clarity to the concept of innovation and its various definitions.

Design/methodology/approach

The article reviews the innovation literature and proposes that innovation has been conceptualized either from a process or from an outcome perspective. Also, the authors show that there is a substantive difference between innovation seen in the traditional innovation literature and innovation as conceived in the knowledge management literature.

Findings

The paper proposes a general framework to categorize the existing views of innovation and show that innovation as an outcome has not been clearly defined from a knowledge perspective. To address this gap, the authors develop a new definition of an innovation outcome based on knowledge elements.

Research limitations/implications

The research lays the groundwork for more comprehensive methods of measuring innovation and innovativeness, which is particularly useful for the study of service innovation.

Practical implications

The framework and definition expand the ability of managers to measure and understand the key factors of innovation.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the literature by developing a comprehensive knowledge‐based, outcome‐oriented definition of innovation.
Knowledge absorptive capacity and innovation performance in KIBS
Authors: Tseng Chun‐Yao , Chang Pai Da , Hung Chi‐Hsia
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss whether the three knowledge sources, knowledge input, knowledge spillover and knowledge absorptive capacity, really increase the innovation performance of firms in the Taiwan IC design industry, one of the most important knowledge‐intensive business services (KIBS) industries in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the knowledge‐based theory, this study uses pooled regression analysis and tests with fixed effect model to analyze the influence of three knowledge sources on innovation performance in the KIBS sector.

Findings

The results demonstrate that: knowledge input is positively related to innovation performance; knowledge spillover effect is partial positively to innovation performance; and knowledge absorptive capacity is positively related to innovation performance.

Originality/value

The paper advances the concept of absorptive capacity by defining it as the interactions between knowledge input and knowledge spillover and refines the measurement of absorptive capacity as the multiplication of knowledge input and knowledge spillover effects. Moreover, knowledge spillover effects and knowledge absorptive capacity are both divided into four kinds which help us distinguish clearly different sources of knowledge spillover and absorptive capacity. In addition to that, this study also contributes to the empirical evidence to innovation activities by using firm‐level micro data.
Firm‐internal knowledge integration and the effects on innovation
Authors: Koch Anne
Published: November 2011

Purpose

Previous literature notes that more remains to be understood about the relationship between organizational knowledge and innovation. In this article the author seeks to argue that innovation depends on efficient knowledge integration, while the latter depends on factors internal and external to product development teams.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a conceptual framework that takes into account firm‐internal knowledge integration of human and technological assets. In particular, the author analyzes and discusses knowledge integration mechanisms which a firm strategically deploys in the innovation process.

Findings

Knowledge‐relatedness, the extent to which product development teams are specialized in related scientific or technological fields, is proposed as an important moderator for the relationship between operating routines and innovative performance. If many product development teams perform well, innovative firm performance will increase.

Research limitations/implications

The author notes the need for empirical inquiry which can build on the theoretical model. Other possible moderators, such as the physical proximity of knowledge‐related product development teams and the frequency of knowledge‐related personnel transfer from one product development team to another, would be interesting avenues for further research.

Practical implications

Specifying operating routines with respect to integrating functional and technological knowledge can result in innovative firm performance.

Originality/value

The article adds to the knowledge‐based view of the firm while analyzing how a firm can make use of its heterogeneous knowledge for innovation. The author shows how knowledge‐relatedness moderates the relationship between operating routines for new product development teams and innovative performance.
Knowledge processes, knowledge‐intensity and innovation: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Andreeva Tatiana , Kianto Aino
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine innovation from a knowledge‐based view by exploring the effect of knowledge processes and knowledge intensity on innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a theoretical model of the connections between knowledge processes, knowledge intensity and innovation performance is presented. The posited hypotheses are then tested statistically, using a survey dataset of 221 organizations.

Findings

The result shows that while all knowledge processes have a beneficial impact on innovation, knowledge creation impacts innovation the most and fully mediates the impact of knowledge documentation, intra‐organizational knowledge sharing and external knowledge acquisition on innovation performance. Furthermore, knowledge intensity increases all knowledge processes. Knowledge intensity also moderates the relationship of documentation and knowledge sharing with knowledge creation. The interaction effect is negative, meaning that firms in less knowledge‐intensive conditions will benefit more from documentation and knowledge sharing for their knowledge creation purposes, and ultimately innovation.

Research limitations

The data are limited to companies from Finland, Russia and China.

Practical implications

To promote innovation, managers should pay close attention to knowledge creation processes in organizations. Furthermore, knowledge creation can be facilitated by ensuring efficient documentation procedures, and internal and external knowledge sharing and acquisition practices. Documentation and knowledge sharing are especially effective means to promote knowledge creation for non‐knowledge intensive firms.

Originality/value

This paper makes a contribution to the existing literature by building and testing a knowledge‐based model of firm innovation and articulating the inter‐relations of knowledge processes and knowledge intensity with innovation performance.
Knowledge‐based dynamic capabilities and innovation in networked environments
Authors: Zheng Suli , Zhang Wei , Du Jian
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the concept of dynamic capabilities from the knowledge‐based perspective and investigate the mechanisms of dynamic capabilities on innovation performance in networked environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper designed a seven‐point Likert questionnaire measuring the dynamic capabilities, innovation performance and network embeddedness and a sample of 218 Chinese manufacturing firms were surveyed. Structural equation modeling method was used to statistically test the theoretical hypothesis.

Findings

Significant relationships were found between dynamic capabilities and innovation performance and knowledge combination capability played a mediating role in this relationship. For the links between network embeddedness and dynamic capabilities, knowledge acquisition capability was affected mainly by relational embeddedness and the diversity of network and joint problem solving contributed much to knowledge combination capability.

Research limitations/implications

This paper deepened the understanding on dynamic capabilities and the mechanism between network embeddedness, knowledge‐based dynamic capabilities and innovation performance. In the future, the construct of knowledge‐based dynamic capabilities calls for more examination and verification.

Originality/value

Drawing on the literature of dynamic capabilities framework, knowledge‐based view and the network model, this study extends the literature of dynamic capabilities and its link with innovation performance in networked environments. Using survey data and structural equation modeling, this study offers rich evidence on the contribution of dynamic capabilities on innovation performance and the antecedents of dynamic capabilities.
More for less? Using PIEs and recovery to improve efficiency in supported housing
Authors: Cockersell Peter
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe an example of a practical evidence‐based approach to improvement in the current climate of funding cuts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes synthesizing insights from leadership, change management and psychodynamic theory to inform a practical change programme to develop services that meet the needs of clients more efficiently.

Findings

The paper finds that rather than simply doing less – cutting staff or reducing services to meet the constraints of funding cuts – it is worth taking a long term and strategic review approach and doing something quite differently.

Practical implications

New ways of working can improve client outcomes and deliver better services and the funding cuts can provide an opportunity to thoroughly re‐examine existing provision; but, significant changes will only be accomplished by change processes that pervade the whole organisation – they cannot just be add‐ons/afterthoughts. The implications of the new way of working are that: even when funding increases, old ways of practice will not be restored; that the use of theoretical approaches from a variety of disciplines can deliver innovative responses that are likely to be sustainable in the medium term; and to improve service standards and outcomes into the future.

Originality/value

This paper finds value by looking to neurobiology, clinical psychotherapy, recovery‐oriented practice, change management theory and practice, and client involvement to try to resolve the current housing crisis.
(Three days in a) life on MARS
Authors: Palmer Vicky
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This case study seeks to provide insight into the day‐to‐day operation of the MARS scheme, a service offered by Mansfield District Council to help homeless households secure good quality, affordable accommodation in the private rented sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Beginning with a brief reflection of the development of the scheme, the study moves on to focus on three typical days in the life of the MARS Senior Tenancy Support Officer, demonstrating how the service identifies suitable tenants and good quality properties and offers ongoing practical support and advice to landlords and their tenants to deliver sustainable tenancies.

Findings

The study goes on to reflect on the development of the scheme, evidencing the effectiveness of MARS both in preventing homelessness and reducing the number of empty homes in the Mansfield District.

Originality/value

Ongoing funding difficulties have threatened the future of the MARS scheme and the study reveals how the Council intends to address these challenges in the longer term to ensure that the MARS scheme can continue to be delivered to landlords and tenants in Mansfield.
The role of multi‐ethnic workforces in the internationalisation of SMEs
Authors: Mohr Alexander , Shoobridge Gonzalo E.
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of ethnic workforce diversity for the internationalisation of small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Using the resource‐based view, it is argued that an ethnically diverse workforce can help SMEs in overcoming barriers to internationalisation and increase the degree to which they benefit from globalisation.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper using the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm to investigate the importance of work force diversity.

Findings

The paper identifies a series of mechanisms that link ethnic workforce diversity to increased internationalisation of SMEs as well as a range of contingencies of this relationship. It calls for a stronger appreciation of individual employees' external, co‐ethnic networks and knowledge as a hitherto largely ignored resource in the initiation, management and expansion of SMEs' international operations.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the paper have implications for research and practice by shedding light on the importance of this so far largely neglected phenomenon. The findings are limited in as far as they are yet to be tested empirically.

Practical implications

The paper provides a framework of mechanisms that can sensitise practitioners with regard to the importance of workforce diversity for internationalisation activities as well as human resource management practices.

Originality/value

The paper addresses an issue that is shown to be of increasing importance to SMEs, but has so far been largely neglected in research on SMEs.
The impact of performance management on the results of a non‐profit organization
Authors: de Waal André , Goedegebuure Robert , Geradts Patricia
Published: November 2011

Purpose

In recent years many organizations have implemented performance management because this technique leads to better organizational results as reported in many articles and case studies. However, often the reported improvement relates to qualitative performance and there is little solid empirical evidence of the actual effects performance management has on the quantitative results of organizations. This article aims to describe the results of a study that explored the quantitative impact of performance management on the results of a non‐profit organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative performance data of the organization, before and after the introduction of performance management, were collected and linked to key activities and events that occurred in the organization during and after the implementation.

Findings

The research shows that several key activities related to the introduction of performance management have an impact on the results of an organization although not always in an expected positive way.

Research limitations/implications

A research limitation is that it is always difficult to isolate the effects of a particular event on the overall results of an organization. Although the effects of other events have been taken into account, it cannot be ruled out that unlisted events and factors are in play.

Practical implications

The results support managers who want to introduce performance management to improve the results of their non‐profit organisation. At the same time, the research indicates that introducing and using performance management needs continuous attention of management in order to become and stay successful in the long run.

Originality/value

This article contributes to the literature as it is one of the few longitudinal research studies into the effects of performance management, specifically in non‐profit organizations.
Measuring university performance using a knowledge‐based balanced scorecard
Authors: Zangoueinezhad Abouzar , Moshabaki Asghar
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The application of fuzzy multiple attribute decision making (FMADM) approach in evaluation of organizations has grown recently, and it is combined with knowledge‐based university evaluation parameters in this study. The paper seeks to propose a FMADM approach for measuring university performance on the four knowledge‐based perspectives of a balanced scorecard.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach first summarizes the evaluation indexes extracted from the university performance literature. Then, the relative weights of the chosen evaluation indexes are calculated using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). The fuzzy sets theory was adapted to university performance analysis.

Findings

The results reveal the critical aspects of the evaluation criteria as well as the gaps to improve university performance in order to achieve the aspired/desired level.

Research limitations/implications

The paper reveals the key issues in the existing performance evaluation method, especially in the university context.

Practical implications

This research analyses the performance of a university based on the knowledge‐based indexes in the four BSC perspectives, using a FME‐MADM approach. It considers specific knowledge‐based metrics for each perspective.

Originality/value

Although implementation of the performance measures in universities are now widespread, there is no considerable literature that sufficiently addresses the various issues faced by organizations during university implementation. The paper proposes application of the balanced knowledge‐based scorecard to universities aiming at evaluating performance annually.
Effects of unbalanced incentive measures on buyer performance – an empirical study in Taiwan
Authors: Chu Hsuan‐Lien , Cho Chia‐Ching , Liu Shuen‐Zen
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the performance effects of an incentive plan that links buyers' compensation to financial measures, namely sales and gross margin, in the retail industry. It seeks to examine the issue using field data obtained from the 3C (computers, communications, and consumer electronics) company, the largest electronics chain store business in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

In addition to t‐tests, the authors use a multiple regression model to examine the impact of the buyer incentive plan on purchasing performance.

Findings

It was found that the gross margin return on inventory investment (GMROI), the most critical purchasing performance measure in retailing, deteriorated after implementing the incentive plan. Further analysis showed that although sales and gross margins increased as a result of the plan, the benefits were completely offset by a significant decrease in inventory turnover.

Research limitations/implications

This study has two limitations. First, the case study involved a specific retail chain. Thus, the extent that the results can be generalized to other organizations or other industries has yet to be explored. Second, to obtain a more comprehensive dataset and more observations, procurement team data was used instead of individual buyer data to measure the purchasing performance.

Practical implications

Managers should be aware of possible negative impacts when they design incentive plans, e.g. dysfunctional behavior among employees.

Originality/value

An incentive plan should incorporate all critical components related to buyer performance if there is to be improvement in terms of the key performance measures. The paper contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence about the appropriateness of the performance measures used in buyer incentive plans designed for the retail industry.
Voices passed
Authors: Davies Andrea
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The paper's aim are to: review the value and credibility of oral history for historical research in marketing; and conceptualize oral history as more than a data source in historical research but also a subject to investigate memory and a conceptual approach for understanding historical events.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper comprises an international historical review of oral history theory and practice linked to an examination of oral history methods in marketing.

Findings

Oral history is perceived as an “essentially contested concept”; a lack of consensus on universal principles has been sustained over a long time and has led to incredible diversity in theory and practice but has also made it difficult to grasp and manage. It is shown to be perspectival with analytical reach beyond individuals' recollected experiences and actions. Memory is identified as the subject as well as the source for oral history and a misconception that oral history can provide literal expressions of what experience and events were like is clarified. Oral history has been under‐utilized in marketing history and this is presented as a methodological paradox given the ubiquity of the interview in the marketing discipline more generally.

Originality/value

Central to oral history are a range of questions around issues of memory and remembering that have been largely unacknowledged in marketing and the oral history approach is perhaps uniquely placed to address some of these. Oral history critically examines the making of history and the paper highlights some of the issues this presents for historical research. Disciplinary efforts to standardize oral history are queried.
On biography in marketing
Authors: Savitt Ronald
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to advance biographical work in marketing, to summarize the status of biography in marketing, and to illustrate the process with an example of a developing study.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on a literature review of biography and a brief review of biography in marketing; the article illustrates biographical research and writing.

Findings

The discussion introduces approaches for undertaking marketing biography, especially the challenges of developing information, assessing its quality, as well as methods for telling the story.

Research limitations/implications

Biography is a “flawed process”. It is difficult to fully elaborate the scope of biography in a journal length article let alone apply the principles. Some topics are shortened, others are hinted at, and others are omitted but the discussion points the way to undertaking biography.

Originality/value

This article introduces contemporary elements for the development of marketing biography illustrated with elements from the life of E.T. Grether.
The subsiding sizzle of advertising history
Authors: Schwarzkopf Stefan
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview over the development of historical research into advertising from the early twentieth century. Its main purposes are to interest marketing scholars and business historians in the history of advertising, help scholars that are unfamiliar with the field in choosing an appropriate theoretical and methodological angle, and provide a critique of a range of methods and theoretical approaches being applied in advertising historical research.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design of this paper is based on historiographical analysis and method critique. It surveys the advertising historical literature of the three decades between 1980 and 2010, and it compares and contrasts dominant research methodologies and theoretical paradigms that have been used by historians and advertising researchers.

Findings

Much advertising historical research is based on a specific set of theoretical paradigms (“Modernization”, “Americanization”, and “Semiotics”), without being aware of the manifest impact they have on the narratives and understandings that historians create. Identifying these paradigms and outlining their impact will help marketing historians and advertising researchers to avoid the pitfalls associated with particular paradigms.

Originality/value

This paper subjects the modern historiography of advertising to a methodological and narratological analysis. It uses this analysis to propose new and somewhat more critical directions in advertising historical research.
Producing historical critical marketing studies: theory, method and politics
Authors: Tadajewski Mark
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper calls attention to the importance of historical research within “critical marketing studies”. It seeks to articulate a historical perspective based on the work of Michel Foucault.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a close reading of relevant Foucaultian primary and secondary texts.

Findings

Foucault's scholarship provides a useful counterpoint to the calls for critical theory to form the central paradigm in critical marketing studies, revealing a complex constellation of power/knowledge relations underpinning marketing theory, thought and pedagogy.

Originality/value

This is a close reading and examination of a theoretically sophisticated, rigorous scholar who remains largely underexplored in relation to marketing theory and the history of marketing thought.
Strategic management accounting and the strategising mindset in an English higher education institutional context
Authors: Hutaibat Khaled , von Alberti‐Alhtaybat Larissa , Al‐Htaybat Khaldoon
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of strategic management accounting (SMA) in an English university. It is in search of and investigates SMA practices and processes, and their meaning to participants in an English university context. The higher education (HE) institution under research had gone through a major change a couple of years prior to this study, including implementation of new strategic management and management accounting practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken is an interpretive one and the adopted methodology is grounded theory according to Glaser's evolved approach. Data collection took place largely through interviews and, where possible, participant observation.

Findings

The main findings of the research concern the core concept of the strategising mindset, which encapsulates the institutional, divisional and individual stance towards strategy and SMA. The strategising mindset is understood as the belief system that is adopted with regard to SMA, which is divided into a bureaucratic and an entrepreneurial mindset. According to the respective mindset, accounting for strategic management is dealt with and institutional members' perceptions of SMA are shaped. The particular mindset adopted depends on the context members were and are functioning, which reflects Bourdieu's theory of practice.

Originality/value

The main contributions are the emergent theoretical framework on SMA in HE, the concept of the strategising mindset and resulting views and conclusions on what SMA actually means in practice. To the authors' knowledge, no such theoretical framework has been published to date.
Exploring a local council's change to an outcome measurement regime
Authors: Yie Tan Chia , Lord Beverley R. , Craig Russell , Ball Amanda
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the experience of a New Zealand (NZ) local council in changing from output‐based to outcome‐oriented performance measures, thereby, seeking to enhance understanding of how institutional pressures affect managers in a local government body.

Design/methodology/approach

By means of semi‐structured interviews with four managers and a councillor at a major city council in NZ, the authors elicit a better understanding of the process of changing to outcome‐oriented performance measures. The six‐stage model of institutional change proposed by Greenwood et al. provides a useful analytical lens. The authors report the thoughts and attitudes of interviewees regarding the effects of the change on the council's performance management, and particularly on its process of Long‐Term Council Community Planning.

Findings

Institutionalisation of the new outcome‐oriented performance measurement system was neither complete nor automatic. Conformity with it was harder where outputs and/or outcomes of activities were less easily definable. Decoupling was evident. Community consultation was regarded to be beneficial because it encouraged managers to be people‐oriented and reduced information asymmetry between managers and councillors.

Originality/value

The paper provides fresh case‐based insights to the process of institutionalising change in the performance measurement system of a local council.