bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women at leisure and in work ‐ unequal opportunities?
Authors: Foley Malcolm , Maxwell Gill , McGillivray David
Published: June 2007

Explores the changing relationship between work and leisure with particular reference to women’s equality in economic and other activities through a review of the history of leisure opportunities since the industrial revolution; indicates the ways in which social and economic changes have had a major impact on women’s leisure needs and activities. Focuses in particular on the provision of workplace fitness facilities, undertaking a survey of more than 200 companies across a number of industry sectors (the rationale for selection is outlined here) to discover the reasons behind such provision and the actual facilities provided; identifies the reasons behind provision as primarily commercial (e.g. being seen as an additional benefit to help recruit high quality employees) and notes that assessment of user group needs was not carried out, with the result that women’s particular needs tended not to be taken into account, for example gyms (favoured by men) being more widely provided than space for aerobic exercise (favoured by women). Concludes that the findings strongly suggest that women remain unequal in their leisure as well as working lives.
New initiatives to place gender on the agenda in business schools
Authors: Mavin Sharon , Bryans Patricia
Published: June 2007

Discusses universities role in resolving gender problems and of combating “impoverished” learning. Argues that gender should be central to management development and education and proposes that gender should be placed high on the agenda to challenge traditional sex role stereotypes in students’ organizations. Proposes that because of problematic areas in educational environment these may not be conducive to women’s development managerially. States that women academics have to get to these management positions to challenge the status quo, but that the movement up the ladder of management responsibility is very difficult. Goes on to highlight the various supporting arguments and discusses these at length. Gives an example in management educationof gender on the agenda and details out the occurrences and effects. Concludes that the initiatives discussed should be taken on board business/management schools should begin to place gender firmly on the agenda‐increasing awareness of gender issues through the process.
How to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace
Authors: Smalensky Elizabeth , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Argues that a clear policy on sexual harassment will help male and female employees work together effectively, because it will reduce women’s worries about harassment, while reassuring male employees about what is and isn’t acceptable. Sets out five steps to preventing harassment at work ‐ clarifying what sexual harassment is and why it happens; evaluating the current workplace environment; educating employees; choosing the right person to implement and monitor the policy; and making sure that the policy is carried out. Explains what is involved in each step, drawing on examples for US firms to show good and bad practice.
Examples of excellent sexual harassment policies
Authors: Fang Hasiao , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Lists the elements in a good sexual harassment policy, explaining why they are needed in the policy and indicating their scope. Presents two examples of sexual harassment policies, suggesting that these can be modified to fit most workplaces. Underlines that a good sexual harassment policy is a vital first step in preventing sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment in American industry
Authors: Gonzales Renee M. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Sets out the stance taken in law to sexual harassment in the workplace, indicating the responsibilities this gives to US firms and individual employees. Briefly outlines the steps that organizations can take to make sure that women feel able to report incidents of sexual harassment. Points to resources on the World Wide Web which offer advice and information to people who are being harassed. Underlines the importance of ending sexual harassment for women to achieve equal opportunities.
Sexual harassment in the workplace
Authors: Kim Steve , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Emphasizes that sexual harassment covers a wide range of unacceptable activities, can be committed by a wide range of people, and can happen to almost anybody, irrespective of gender and age. Stresses the need to prevent sexual harassment, setting out the steps that can be taken under US law. Sees training as a key to stopping sexual harassment, briefly indicating what this training could cover. Also looks at what employers should do upon receiving a complaint of sexual harassment. Points out that prompt, appropriate and effective action by the employer provides an effective defence, if a case is brought by the US Equal Employment Opportunities Commission.
Office romances in organisations
Authors: Kruse Daniel R. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Points out that office r0mances are inevitable but that they can pose difficulties for company policy. Looks at the legal responsibility that a US company has for preventing office romances. Quotes a case taken against Helena Labs by the spouses of two of its employees who had an affair. Reports that the firm was held to be not accountable for the action of employees in this instance. Looks at instances in which companies might want to act ‐ displays of public affection and cases in which supervisors show bias towards their partner. Explains how companies can deal with this issue. Quotes the hospitality company, Marriott, which rules that no employee can be romantically involved with his/her supervisor and that employees should not engage in public displays of affection.
New development concerning gender discrimination in the workplace
Authors: Sandico Cynthia V. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Looks at how US organizations can prevent gender discrimination and support women in the workplace. Lists the actions that organizations have been recommended to take to ensure that the women reach their full potential within the workplace. Also looks at the potential of companies providing benefits, such as child care, maternity/family leave and flexible working arrangements to support women employees with children.
New developments in reverse discrimination
Authors: Menache Robert , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Examines recent moves in the USA to prevent affirmative action (also known as reverse discrimination), looking at the proposition passed in California in 1996 which has made affirmative action illegal. Indicates the extent to which similar moves have been made in other parts of the USA, including the court decisions that have prevented Rice University and the University of Texas from using racial preferences in their admissions procedures.
How to eliminate discrimination in the workplace
Authors: Phomphakdy Ratsamy , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Sets out the US legislation that makes job discrimination illegal, setting out the six main types of discrimination that are proscribed ‐ disability, age, sexual harassment, race, sexual orientation and gender. Assesses the success of diversity training in removing discrimination from the workplace and sets out the reasons why it has failed. Identifies four steps that companies should take to prevent discrimination ‐ accept that discrimination takes place and set up a zero tolerance for it; stop using the diversity label; focus on the behaviours that need to be changed; and develop top‐down commitment for a plan of action to end discrimination.
How to use statistics in discrimination cases
Authors: Matthews John R. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Explains how defendants and plaintiffs can use statistics in US court cases concerning discrimination to bolster their case. Outlines when not to use statistics; how to analyse the statistics to make the best case possible; and how to analyse opponents’ statistics to show any false analysis. Draws on case law to show the misuse of statistics. Sets out the legal procedure followed in US discrimination cases and discusses the best stage at which to use any statistical arguments.
Sex discrimination in hiring the glass ceiling
Authors: Cai Yuan , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Presents evidence that the “glass ceiling” affects the career development of women in many professions the USA, including those in which they predominate in the entry levels, such as teaching. Sets out US case law on discrimination, summarizing some of the major judgements on human resource practices that are discriminatory. Lists five factors that impede womens’ careers ‐ stereotypes and perceptions; lack of access to mentoring; discrimination; family responsibilities; and the costs of setting up one’s own business.
New developments concerning discrimination against workers with HIV or AIDS
Authors: Firmansyah Suzana , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Indicates the number of people in the USA who have contracted HIV or AIDS. Looks at discrimination against people with HIV or AIDS in the US workplace, setting out their legal protection and the obligation set upon employers not to discriminate against them. Assesses the implications of this for employers’ benefits plans and human resource practices. Outlines the policies and procedures that employers should adopt to make sure that there is no discrimination against people with HIV or AIDS in the workplace.
New developments concerning sexual harassment
Authors: Shaw Kilpatrick Andrew , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the basic development of sexual legislation using case history to show how arbitration can influence a court’s decision. Covers investigation of claims and risk mitigation techniques.
New developments concerning reasonable accommodations of disabilities in American organizations
Authors: Irving Cathy , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Defines disability, qualified and reasonable accommodation under the law and outlines the requirements for US companies. Covers recent rulings which indicate a broadening of the Act and looks at precautions which organizations can take.
Discrimination in the insurance industry
Authors: Chin‐Hul Lai Julie , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines recent cases of discrimination by the insurance industry against the disabled and victims of violence. Covers suggested changes to the law, outlining the benefits and pitfalls. Identifies genetics and the use of the Internet as new areas for concern and suggests potential legislation in these cases.
Discrimination in government
Authors: Supateera Choenporn , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the policy development against discrimination in local government and reports on the findings of a report looking at Federal government discrimination. Discusses current issues in employment discrimination with particular emphasis on sexuality discrimination.
New developments concerning jury trial simulation
Authors: Lucier Tamara , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Introduces the concept of jury trial simulation and outlines a number of different techniques used. Briefly looks at the future development through new computer software and concludes that the evidence available suggests that jury trial simulation works.
How to identify and handle difficult people
Authors: Kuan Teresa , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Introduces the concept of difficult people and looks at how to assess a situation. Outlines a number approaches to follow, considering the merits of each and concludes by discussing the disciplinary action available and the way in which it may be executed.
The relationship between age and employment opportunities
Authors: Schwartz David A. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Considers the effect that the baby boomer generation will have upon retirement and compares the present lifestyle to the future. Discusses the impact this generation may have in health and productivity terms and looks at age discrimination and work alternatives. Concludes that many companies faced with more mature workers will have to revise their attitudes.
Expanding the family definition: health care for domestic partners
Authors: Arthur Gochin Grant , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Looks at the way traditional family units are ceasing to operate and proffers a wider definition for the family, outlining the criteria used by a number of companies to offer family healthcare. Considers the tax implications and the costs and impacts of this extension of care. Gives arguments against this extension but concludes that it may be fair, equitable and economically feasible to extend coverage.
Organizational transparency drives company performance
Authors: Berggren Erik , Bernshteyn Rob
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To explain the logic of value creation through increased organizational transparency of human capital.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors compare the status of today's organizations with other areas of life where transparency has been a fundamental driver of efficiency. Further, the authors break transparency down into logical steps of value creation. Insight is based on hands‐on experience working with several companies on these issues as well as designing software to support the logic.

Findings

Modern companies are taking steps to drive company performance through increased efficiency delivered by increased transparency but few take it all the way. No universal model is prescribed but a clear sequence of foundations that need to be in place is discovered.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on the authors' research and learning from working in this field. Further research in the field of organizational transparency as a means to drive company performance is suggested.

Originality/value

This paper takes a different angle than the traditional view.
Challenges in achieving transparency, simplicity and administering of the United States tax code
Authors: Holtzman Yair
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the issues of simplicity, transparency, equity and effectively administering the United States tax code.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon a literature study and discussions with leading tax professionals.

Findings

Tax systems that are difficult to comply with and administer may lack transparency. A nontransparent tax system could be difficult to administer because tax administrators may have difficulty consistently applying the law to taxpayers in similar situations. In this sense, transparency is closely linked to the simplicity and effectively administering the United States tax system.

Originality/ value

Provides for a non‐technical read for managers who seek a high level overview of the subject and are non‐tax professionals.
Working from the inside out
Authors: Smith Charles
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer an insight into the relevance for managers and leaders of what Huxley termed the “perennial philosophy”, a commonality of teachings found within the spiritual and indigenous traditions of all ages and all parts of the world.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes the use of a thought experiment to explore the subjective experience of the individual who works in a way that is aligned to the perennial philosophy. The purpose of the experiment is to assess the value of the philosophy to the practical dimensions of management.

Findings

The thought experiment uses an account of an ancient craft worker, working in a manner prescribed by perennial wisdom, as the basis for extrapolating, to a modern situation, the potential fruits of such work. Greater mental clarity and a greater ability to see potential and “unimpededness” are recognized, as is a natural elegance in the products and services that result.

Research limitations/implications

The “thought experiment” suggested only speculates on the possible results, and therefore can only provide a working hypothesis which must be tested in one's own experience.

Practical implications

The potential implications to a manager or leader of such an approach to work are very significant. If the effects of adopting the perennial philosophy are true, they result in a radically different understanding of effectiveness and how to produce the highest quality work.

Originality/value

The use of a thought experiment and the specific application of the perennial philosophy to the situation of the modern workplace are unique.
Retirement – an unaffordable luxury
Authors: McManus Tom , Anderberg Johan , Lazarus Harold
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To show that retirement is no longer a given, but that not being able to retire may not be a bad thing. Remaining in the workforce might end up being a win‐win situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The reader is given an introduction of some of the issues related to retirement, such as demographic, economic, and legal factors. The article discusses how these and other factors affect our ability to retire at 65. Some of the positive aspects of not retiring, including better physical and mental health for the individual and a stronger society, are also introduced.

Findings

Retirement as we know it is very likely to soon be a thing of the past. Changes in demographic, economic, and legal factors are forcing us to look at retirement from a different point of view. Studies have shown that people who remain in the workforce at an older age are better off, both physically and mentally. In addition to improved health, being an active contributor to the community will serve the society as a whole.

Practical implications

The article can serve as an eye‐opener to some people who take retirement for granted. It can also help people that fear not being able to retire, to look more favorably upon the fact that they may have to work additional years before retiring.

Originality/value

Instead of only discussing the negative aspects of an aging population, the authors take a different approach and present no retirement as an opportunity, not a problem. Don't fear it, prepare for it.
Was Waldram wrong?
Authors: Defoe Peter S. , Frame Ian
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to continue the debate started by M. Pitts and P. Chynoweth in previous issues of Structural Survey and examine some specific areas of concern regarding the methodologies used for calculating loss of daylight in Rights to Light cases.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight specific areas of concern are identified and each of these is analysed in turn, first to establish, where possible, the origin of the current methodology and then to test this against available current thinking.

Findings

There is a reasonable justification for adopting a value of 500 foot‐candles, although this is not in fact the minimum value. The only justification for using a Uniform Sky appears to be mathematical and another, more accurate, sky model could be used. The Waldram Diagram can legitimately be adjusted to any suitable dimensions provided that the measurements are always taken as a ratio of the chart area. There is no justification for using a work surface height of 850 mm, nor is there any evidence of justification for assuming that 1 foot‐candle of light is adequate for normal use but there is justification in legal terms for ignoring window frames, glazing and internal reflectance.

Practical implications

It can be shown that there is a case for reassessing the methodologies currently accepted by the Courts and therefore that there is scope for further research to establish a new more accurate method.

Originality/value

Whilst many are questioning the validity of daylight calculations in Rights to Light cases, this paper takes some of those questions and establishes whether there is in fact cause for concern.
Air‐conditioning – Cooling‐off without CFCs
Authors: Evans David
Published: June 2007

Provides a brief outline of the problems which the air‐conditioning
industry faces in finding suitable alternatives to chlorofluorocarbons
((CFCs) in refrigeration equipment.
Do Women Like Beetles?
Authors: Murrells Paul
Published: June 2007

One in three claims against surveyors arising out of surveys involves
allegations relating to damp, rot or some other timber defect. There is
a tendency for surveyors to be reluctant to make statements in reports
regarding the active nature of such conditions, as this could prejudice
the chances of a property transaction proceeding. Considers recent
cases where surveyors′ liability for commenting on such defects has been
the matter at issue. In particular, considers a very recent judgment,
given in the Official Referees Courts in London. An Essex‐based surveyor
was found to have been negligent in failing to warn clients in a survey
report as to the severe structural damage that the death‐watch beetle
was capable of causing to a timber‐framed farmhouse. The surveyor
referred to this as woodworm infestation. Damages in excess of £100,000
inclusive of interest were awarded together with costs. Concludes by
making clear the importance of distinguishing between common furniture
beetle and death‐watch beetle.
Inspecting ventilation systems
Authors: Loyd S.
Published: June 2007

Highlights the need to inspect ventilation systems, which will
become a legal requirement for all workplaces from 1996. Beneficial
reasons are given, including maintaining the health and efficiency of
employees, maintaining the quality of the indoor environment, and
protecting the safety and efficiency of plant. Inspection should also
form part of refurbishment schemes to ensure a clean and healthy indoor
environment. Describes the practical application of borescopes and
inspection vehicles along with detailed procedures for ductwork, filters
and fire dampers. Concludes with protective measures for inspection
personnel, employees, workplaces and equipment.
The English House Condition Survey: past, present and future
Authors: Davidson Maggie
Published: June 2007

The first English House Condition Survey (EHCS) was carried out in
1967. It was repeated in 1971, and since that time there has been a
survey every five years. The scale and complexity of the survey, the
technical methods employed and the extent of its use by the Department
of the Environment and other government departments have changed
dramatically since the early days. Describes the history of the survey
and documents how EHCS has grown with increasing understanding of the
housing system, both leading and responding to concerns of the day. Also
describes how it has continually strived to improve its methods and
measuring tools to match the demands for more detailed, accurate and
reliable information.
Layout evaluation of large capacity warehouses
Authors: Huertas José Ignacio , Díaz Ramírez Jenny , Trigos Salazar Federico
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a model to estimate and evaluate the operational costs of alternative layouts for large capacity warehouses or distribution centers with a large variety of goods.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model is based on time and resources studies per each of the basic activities on a warehouse operation. For validation purposes, the proposed model was applied on a perishable goods warehouse in Mexico. The output data was compared to actual data. Performance measures were operational costs and average picking time.

Findings

It was found that the proposed model is robust, flexible, simple and easy to be implemented. The model was used to evaluate two new alternatives of layout and operations of the same warehouse. It was found that the option with the layout with docks on long opposite sides of the warehouse and the operation without a separate picking zone minimizes operational costs.

Research limitations/implications

The richness of the model is strongly supported by the information the warehouse has about its operation. With knowledge of the process, it is required to distinguish deterministic from stochastic basic activities and develop distance computations that depend on the layout being studied.

Practical implications

The approach used to model warehouse operations was to estimate the movements and resource consumption per commodity. This allows the model to be used in every operational context when the complexity of the system is strongly dependent on and proportional to the volume of operations. In addition, it is particularly adequate as a tool to compare average performance measures of different scenarios for the same system.

Originality/value

The model proposed here provides a simple way to estimate particularly operational resource consumptions and picking times as proxy measures for efficiency and efficacy of a warehouse. It uses distance computations, time information and unit occurrence frequencies of basic activities over a single commodity in the system.
Implementing race equality within the procurement process in Wales
Authors: Duncan Rosanna , Mortimer Julianne , Hallas Jane
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The UK Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 places a statutory duty on all public authorities to promote race equality throughout all their functions. The purpose of this paper is to discuss steps being taken by social landlords in Wales and contractors and consultants to promote race equality within the construction procurement process.

Design/methodology/approach

The principle methods of data collection were focus groups with social landlords and postal questionnaires and semi structured telephone interviews with construction contractors and consultants.

Findings

Little action is being taken by social landlords in Wales to promote race equality within the construction procurement process. Furthermore, construction contractors and consultants that undertake work on behalf of social landlords are doing little to ensure race equality within their own organisations.

Research limitations/implications

A relatively small sample of construction contractors and consultants took part in the research.

Practical implications

In order to meet their obligations under current legislation social landlords need to ensure that they promote race equality within the procurement process. Construction companies including maintenance and minor works contractors that aspire to be engaged by social landlords will need to demonstrate that they are committed to race equality and its implementation and have the appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure this.

Originality/value

This research is the first to evaluate the procurement practices of social landlords in Wales and how these practices may impact on race equality within the procurement process. The research also examined the steps being taken to promote equality by construction contractors and consultants operating within the social housing sector in Wales.
The potential effect of end‐users on energy conservation in office buildings
Authors: Junnila Seppo
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to estimate the potential of end‐user effect on energy conservation in office buildings. The study quantifies the energy conservation potential and estimates the current level of energy management in four banking organisations in the Nordic countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The multiple case study employs quantitative scenario analysis for estimating the energy conservation potential of office equipment and lighting, and uses a qualitative model for estimating the current level of end‐user energy management in the organisations.

Findings

The study found that noticeable potential for energy conservation exists in the end‐user energy consumption. The tested scenarios significantly decreased the yearly electricity consumption of office equipment, for some 70 per cent, from 21 kWh per m2 to 6 kWh per m2. The electricity consumption of lighting was also noticeably improved, for some 30 per cent, from 38 kWh per m2 to 27 kWh per m2, equalling a 29 per cent reduction there. Altogether, the identified savings equal an improvement of roughly 20 per cent in the overall electricity consumption of the organisations. At the same time, the evaluation of current energy management showed that the management practices implemented represent only a rather modest level of end‐user energy management.

Research limitations/implications

The multiple case study focused on four Nordic countries and banking organisations only. As the banking sector tends to be more conservative than some other industries, the results are not necessary valid in all industries. The simulation tools used, especially for lighting, only give estimation of the “best case” type of situation for tested scenarios, in which it is assumed that all end‐users would start to behave according to the scenario.

Practical implications

This study implies clearly that end‐user‐energy‐management services are needed in FM. Although the user behaviour is more challenging to manage than pure technology, it can be quite profitable. For example, in the studied organisations, the savings found in end‐user energy would equal yearly profits of roughly 1.7 million €, i.e. some 20 per cent of the overall electricity budgets of the companies.

Originality/value

Most of the quantitative energy conservation studies in the offices have concentrated so far on new constructions and building system improvements. This study quantifies the potential influence of good facilities management with the end‐user activation on the energy efficiency of office buildings.
Opening Up Lines of Communication for Building Controls
Authors: Peel Dale
Published: June 2007

Discusses the recent trend of computer intelligence in building control
systems, and identifies the viability of manufacturers′ controls to
communicate with one another as a constant drawback. Suggests that a
solution lies with new software called Facility Manager, which uses Apex
communication drivers to allow different manufacturers′ controllers to
talk to one another, yet maintain confidentiality. Describes the
development of this software and its operation.
Smart Buildings
Authors: Drewer Stephen , Gann David
Published: June 2007

Focuses on the changes in the construction supply system – a prerequisite for the design, management and production of smart buildings. Defines smart buildings and suggests that the construction industry is considered to be conservative in adopting new technologies and slow to change. Highlights experiences with commercial building of the 1980s, which suggests the construction industry can accommodate changes. Gives an internal perspective of smart buildings and reveals variations in the development of these in various countries. Provides an outline of procedures and structures in the changing environment of construction which have resulted in structural changes in the construction process. Finally, indicates that a new class of specialist may emerge.
Total Facilities Management
Authors: Laird Stuart
Published: June 2007

Explains the option of employing a professional facilities management
(FM) consultant with expertise in all relevant areas to audit current
facilities policies, operations and attendant costs. Considers the
procedure of the audit, which is said to be based on the business
process reengineering (BPR) concept, and provides a bottom‐up evaluation
of critical operating processes at work in a company. Suggests reasons
for the growing popularity of FM over the past ten years, and provides
an example of Tarmac FM as one of the new multidisciplinary FM
companies.
The evaluation of lease investment opportunities: a
decision‐support methodology
Authors: Metawa Saad A.
Published: June 2007

Looks at how the developments in the leasing industry, namely the
increased competition, lower profitability, changes in tax laws and
rapid technological advances, all have contributed to the increase in
the number of companies getting out of the leasing business.
The obstacles to marketing thinking
Authors: Hill Mark E. , McGinnis John , Cromartie Jane
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the pivotal guiding role of “marketing thinking” in an organization, to identify the obstacles to marketing thinking, explaining how they hinder its implementation, and offering strategies to minimize those negative effects, and thereby, to enable improved marketing thinking and enhanced performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant literature is synthesized, to derive a definition of marketing thinking before a conceptual framework is developed, on the basis of which to discuss the potential obstacles.

Findings

In viewing marketing thinking as type of questioning, potential obstacles are found to be: what is “familiar” typical questioning practices, and a “static” orientation. Identification and examination of the source and impact of each obstacle can in turn allow for enhanced understanding of both the detrimental effects and the potential benefits of effective counter‐action.

Research limitations/implications

Three types of obstacles to marketing thinking are identified and discussed, but there is no intended implication that only those three exist. If marketing planners will treat marketing thinking as a type of questioning behavior, the identification of additional obstacles is not only possible but likely. Future research can move the agenda in that direction.

Practical implications

Understanding marketing thinking as a special type of questioning is key to developing strategies and plans which allow for maintaining a meaningfully differentiated position in a constantly changing environment of continuously differentiated products and services. Confronting the obstacles to marketing thinking will facilitate that objective.

Originality/value

New strategies are offered to enable practitioners to work around the obstacles to marketing thinking, thereby improving its value as a tool in marketing intelligence and planning.
Ethnocentricity in academic marketing journals
Authors: Svensson Göran , Wood Greg
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to examine and compare a set of key characteristics of ethnocentricity that influence the policy of academic marketing journals, and hence the provenance, authorship and nature of articles in academic marketing journals.

Design/methodology/approach

The “fundamental” characteristics of three major marketing journals, published in the USA, the UK and New Zealand, were examined for the six‐year period from the start of 2000 to the end of 2006. Data were collected from editorials and web homepages. Analysis was conducted of 811 articles, 1,676 authors, three editorial teams and three sets of reviewers.

Findings

There is a challenging academic ethnocentricity in the management and implied policy of the three journals. The extent varies, but the inescapable conclusion is that the world‐wide research community in marketing is not properly represented by leading journals.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was intentionally small, and unrepresentative of any category except “leading quality”. The findings are intended to add momentum to a debate and point ways forward, not to provide generalisable answers.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that: the editorial boards and reviewing teams should be made more representative geographically; editorships should be organized around the concept of a team of geographically differentiated editors; editorial and review teams should be ethnographically representative of individuals who do research and wish to publish it, particularly beyond the English‐speaking world. In general, the world‐wide research community in marketing would benefit from less ethnocentricity in academic journals, and these leading examples should strive to reduce it.

Originality/value

The impact of ethnocentricity is underestimated in this context. The issue needs to be discussed, because of paradigmatic influences that it can have on a journal and the profile of its authors, and hence on journal ranking and perceptions of journal quality.
What are the essential capabilities of marketers?
Authors: Gray Brendan J. , Grundvåg Ottesen Geir , Bell Jim , Chapman Cassandra , Whiten Jemma
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper sets out to identify the knowledge and skills that marketing practitioners need to possess and use, to improve marketing management and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data from a survey of marketing managers, academics and senior students in New Zealand, relating to the skills essential to work as a marketing manager, were analysed by analysis of variance to assess the extent of convergences or divergence among the responses of the three groups.

Findings

The essential skills are an ability and willingness to learn about product‐markets, to solve marketing problems, to communicate with internal and external stakeholders, and to work in teams, plus the knowledge of a wide range of marketing subject areas needed to set these skills in context. To progress from junior to senior posts, marketing graduates need to develop strategic thinking, leadership and management skills, and must demonstrate knowledge of strategic planning, product and brand management, communication and promotion, and consumer behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

This study extends previous research by incorporating the views of three stakeholder groups about a broad range of knowledge and skills. Further, research is required to assess the generalisability of the results from these relatively small samples located in only one institution (albeit large and influential), and to investigate whether experience alone is a sufficient basis for junior marketers to acquire the knowledge and skills to become effective marketing managers and planners, or whether academics should help them to fast‐track their careers by means of targeted courses for intending practitioners.

Practical implications

Broad agreement between practitioners and academics suggests that relevant knowledge and skills are probably being taught. However, the differing view of students suggests that the effectiveness of university courses must be questioned.

Originality/value

The study reports the opinions of three stakeholder groups on a vital aspect of marketing education.
Factors affecting the utilization of the internet by internationalizing firms in transition markets
Authors: Nguyen Tho D.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This study investigates key factors that influence the utilization of the internet by internationalizing firms in one transition market, Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic sample of 306 internationalizing firms in Ho Chi Minh City was surveyed to test the theoretical model. Structural equation modelling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

This study finds that the two key concepts in the technology acceptance model (TAM), perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the internet, can be used to predict internet utilization by organizations. Market orientation is also a predictor of internet utilization. Learning orientation facilitates perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the internet by internationalizing firms, and hence its utilization.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed to investigate other antecedents as well as outcomes of internet utilization by internationalizing firms.

Practical implications

This study suggests that programmes for the assistance and training of internationalizing firms should promote the usefulness and ease of use of the internet, and foster market orientation and learning orientation, in order to stimulate them to use the Internet effectively in the pursuit of marketing success in international markets.

Originality/value

This study expands the explanatory power of the TAM in predicting the utilization of the Internet by internationalizing firms.
Effect of team diversity on software project performance
Authors: Liang Ting‐Peng , Liu Chih‐Chung , Lin Tse‐Min , Lin Binshan
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This research seeks to investigate the relationship between knowledge diversity (KD) in software teams and project performance. Previous research has shown that member diversity affects team performance; most of that work, however, has focused on diversity in personal or social attributes, such as gender or social category. Current research targets at the knowledge level aim to facilitate the implementation of knowledge management in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A research framework was developed based on conflict theory and empirically tested on software teams in Taiwan.

Findings

It was found that KD increases task conflict, which in turn has significant positive effects on team performance and that value diversity (VD) increases relationship conflict, which in turn negatively affects team performance.

Research limitations/implications

The findings indicate that task conflict can enhance team performance, while relationship conflict can reduce team performance. Therefore, it is important to maintain healthy relationships among team members.

Practical implications

This research concludes that KD is beneficial and that VD is harmful to project outcome in software development. It is, therefore, useful for managers to form teams whose members encompass a broad knowledge base.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a novel way to measure knowledge and VD in teams and reports the effects of these attributes on team performance. The work also shows that a proper level of task conflict in a software team is necessary for achieving high performance.
Socio‐economic determinants of broadband adoption
Authors: Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Lal Banita
Published: June 2007

Purpose

As innovative forms of information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as broadband internet are being adopted, the equitable distribution of ICTs has become an issue of concern. These apprehensions are being attributed to social exclusion that could arise due to the limited internet use among citizens with lower incomes or educational levels. This research aims to examine the impact of socio‐economic determinants, such as age, gender, education, income and occupation, on the adoption of broadband.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research approach was employed to achieve the overall aim of this research. The empirical data of the socio‐economic variables was collected employing a postal survey in the UK.

Findings

The findings of this research suggest that in terms of broadband adoption, except for gender, all the other socio‐economic variables, including age, education, occupation and income, significantly helped to explain differences between the adopters and non‐adopters of broadband.

Practical implications

The implications of the findings are discussed in the context of promoting the adoption of emerging technologies such as broadband to parts of the population that have limited access to the internet and ICTs in general.

Originality/value

The primary value of this paper lies in extending the understanding of broadband adopters and non‐adopters according to their socio‐economic attributes. This has been achieved by synthesising the previous literature on a number of socio‐economic variables (such as age, gender, education, income and occupation) and also by empirically examining their effects on broadband adoption.
On network externalities, e‐business adoption and information asymmetry
Authors: Lai Fujun , Wang Jian , Hsieh Chang‐Tseh , Chen Jeng‐Chung (Victor)
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate and provide empirical evidence of the interrelationships among network externalities, e‐business adoption and information asymmetry.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was proposed and tested using 307 completed interview cases selected from a database of 2,075 Chinese international trading companies published by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Commerce for this study.

Findings

The results indicated that network externalities significantly influenced e‐business adoption and information asymmetry, and e‐business adoption influenced information asymmetry through information sharing and collection. A split sample analysis showed that cultural contexts significantly moderated the interrelationships among network externalities, e‐business adoption, and information asymmetry.

Research limitations/implications

Data for this study were collected only from mainland China, therefore, non‐Chinese companies (foreign‐owned) operating in China may have been influenced by Chinese cultures and some of them have been localizing their operations in China. The influences of network externalities on business performance and decision making remain unclear. In addition, data were collected from self‐reported questionnaires, and thus may be subject to self‐reporting bias. Future studies should use more objective measurements to reduce the potential for self‐reporting bias.

Practical implications

This study contributes significantly to the literature by providing empirical evidence on interrelationships among network externalities, e‐business adoption, and information asymmetry. The findings in this study also provide valuable insights for managers to better understand the influence of network externalities on e‐business adoption.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the literature by providing empirical evidence of the interrelationships among network externalities, e‐business adoption, and information asymmetry. The findings also provide managers with valuable insight into better understanding of the nature of these interrelationships.
The road ahead ‐ partnership or conflict?
Authors: Briggs Dennis
Published: June 2007

Looks at the pressures on the automotive component industry today and how it is reacting to this. Posits that although all the motor manufacturers require different responses from suppliers the real answer is closer communication and better relationships.
Influencer and other “buying” roles in the decision‐making process of retirement housing purchasers
Authors: Livette Martin
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that the role of children in persuading their parents to move is known to be significant, but there has been extensive debate about the roles of other people involved in the process. It is necessary to investigate who plays these roles, for they will be legitimate targets for informative promotion or help from not‐for‐profit agencies – the public sector and voluntary/charitable organisations – wanting to improve the older person's decision making when choosing from a range of housing options.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows that questionnaires were delivered to every property in nine retirement housing schemes, chosen at random, in the West Midlands region of the UK. Approximately 200 were completed. Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with 20 of the respondents.

Findings

The findings in this paper demonstrate that almost all initiators were from within the family. The spouse and adult children were the most important influencers, but children had the greatest impact because almost all respondents had children, whereas only a quarter were married. Respondents alone made the decision to purchase in three‐quarters of instances.

Originality/value

The paper shows that not‐for‐profit agencies, when providing information and offering advice about retirement housing, need to target the potential purchaser, the spouse, adult children and other relatives. Other influencers can almost be ignored. Such action will improve the decision‐making process.
The Role of the Managing Agent
Authors: Richards Stephen
Published: June 2007

The manner in which the role of the managing agent has evolved in recent
years has been well documented. In these times of recession and economic
uncertainty there has been a further and equally significant change in
the role of the managing agent – this time in philosophy. Looks at the
reason behind the change in philosophy and the value in providing a
balanced service catering for the needs of both landlord and tenant,
with particular emphasis on the payment of occupational costs by the
tenant and the way in which these can be controlled by the landlord.