bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The service function as a holistic management concept
Authors: Kowalkowski Christian
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This article aims to introduce the service function concept, as well as why and how it can be a useful concept for addressing service management challenges in industrial firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Two in‐depth case studies of global industrial firms enabled a thorough understanding of the roles of the service function entities and interdependencies between them.

Findings

Although the service organization is most likely the key entity, it is only one part of the service function; other organizational entities are to be seen as part‐time service functions.

Research limitations/implications

A finer‐grained conceptualization would enable a better understanding of the front‐ and back‐office entities involved in the service processes.

Practical implications

The concept can be useful when communicating the importance of services and the inter‐relatedness between the service organization and other parts of the firm, which generates a better internal understanding of the service processes. The alignment between service offering and organization can be elaborated by mapping where service development, sales, and production take place, what the ideal configuration would be, and the roles played by different parts of the service function.

Originality/value

The service function is a novel concept and is particularly relevant for industrial firms that offer services. It highlights the fact that it is erroneous to equate services with the activities of the service organization. Instead, a more holistic approach to the management of service offerings is needed.
Bridging the theory to application gap in value‐based selling
Authors: Töytäri Pekka , Brashear Alejandro Thomas , Parvinen Petri , Ollila Ilmari , Rosendahl Nora
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Increasing pressure to reduce costs and skepticism of promised value‐added are forcing suppliers to produce tangible proof of the monetary value they create for customers. The academic literature on the practical activities related to value‐based selling remains sparse. This paper aims to bridge the gap between the abundant theoretical customer value frameworks and implementation practices to create a practical foundation for value‐based sales activities in firms that aim to become value creators.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on two case studies, the authors map the best practices in customer value quantification from the point of view of industrial customers, and study value‐based sales processes to uncover the value‐based sales activities for implementing and profiting from customer value.

Findings

The results suggest a customer‐focused sales process that centers on creating value, quantifying the value created, and creating a situation where customer and supplier maximize their utility through value sharing.

Research limitations/implications

The generalizability of the findings is limited to the industrial and service selling context.

Practical implications

Successful industrial and service requires tangible proof and evidence of the value and utility of the suppliers' business impact on the customer's operation. The paper aims to contribute to the value quantification knowledge and practices.

Originality/value

The academic literature on the practical activities related to value‐based selling remains sparse, while the importance of the value quantification knowledge and value selling process is growing rapidly.
Mapping B2B value exchange in marketing relationships: a systematic approach
Authors: Albadvi Amir , Hosseini Monireh
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper's main purpose is to provide a systematic approach for mapping the value exchange in B2B relationship marketing. This approach affords a preliminary analysis in order to distinguish business customers' different value dimensions (tangibles and intangibles) and to set sights on determining suitable metrics to evaluate and quantify the value of each customer.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a combination of qualitative research approaches, namely an exploratory case study, in‐depth interviews, and consensus expert opinion. The empirical study took place over three months to maximize the proposed approach's expediency in the practitioners' B2B environment and to increase the validity of the research findings.

Findings

In addition to developing a new framework originating in the value network approach for mapping, modeling and analyzing business customers' value network (BCVN), the findings posit a proposed systematic approach for practitioners and marketing scholars to scrutinize the multi‐dimension values of business relationship marketing.

Practical implications

For companies and their business customers alike, the benefits of the systematic approach proposed in this paper are an efficient analytical system giving an opportunity to B2B marketers and managers to understand their business customers' network in detail.

Originality/value

The implicit concept of maximizing customer lifetime value within the business customers' network appeals for an applied approach to better understand and analyze the real value of business customers to retain them.
Networking and developing collaborative relationships: evidence of the auto‐part industry of Brazil
Authors: Pimentel Claro Danny , Borin de Oliveira Claro Priscila
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This study aims to assess the moderating effect of the business network on the effects of between relational behavior and the effects of transaction‐specific investments on joint actions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was a survey based field study designed using theoretical support from marketing channels, transaction cost economics and network perspectives.

Findings

The results show the importance of relational behavior and the network in coordinating joint actions, and this has relevant managerial implications for the coordination of a collaborative relationship. The characteristics of the relationship, its length as well as the size of each partner affect the collaborative efforts of the partners.

Practical implications

Firms and managers should understand not only the dyadic relationships they are in but also the network structure. Dyadic characteristics affect collaboration, while the network also has effects on the collaboration of partners in vulnerable positions.

Originality/value

The paper points out the role of the network as a countervailing safeguard for dyadic TSIs and network stability. Dyadic relationships are supported by the network.
The internationalization of Indian SMEs in B‐to‐B markets
Authors: Javalgi Rajshekhar (Raj) G. , Todd Patricia , Granot Elad
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The study aims to examine the effect of market orientation on the international performance of Indian SMEs in the business‐to‐business market; assess the potential moderating effect of environmental uncertainty, along with market orientation, on SMEs' performance; and discuss implications to guide SME owners/managers in their efforts to successfully expand internationally in turbulent markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveys were sent to a random cross‐sectional industry sample of SMEs located in India. The data consisted of 150 responses.

Findings

Market orientation and international orientation are positively related to export performance and the relationship between the market orientation and international performance of Indian SMEs is moderated by market turbulence.

Research limitations/implications

The data were collected at a single point in time, and therefore do not allow the determination of cause and effect or the impact of changes over time. Data were collected with a reliance on self‐reports for all of the research variables.

Practical implications

The positive relationship between market orientation, international orientation, and the degree of internationalization of the firm would suggest that the upper management of Indian SMEs should place a priority on promoting behaviors consistent with a positive international orientation, especially in turbulent markets.

Originality/value

Studies focused on market orientation have been done primarily in the context of advanced economies. The significant economic contribution of SMEs is well understood, but their business practices in emerging economies have not been studied extensively. This study extends the literature concerning factors that impact business success in an important emerging market such as India.
Organisational culture
Authors: Devi Ramachandran Sharimllah , Choy Chong Siong , Ismail Hishamuddin
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The main objective of this paper to study the organisational culture (OC) in private and public higher education institutions (HEIs) from the perspective of faculty members in order to provide empirical insights on the differences and consequently pave an avenue for cross‐learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 594 faculty members (33.9 per cent from public HEIs and 52.8 per cent from private HEIs) using the competing values framework (CVF).

Findings

The factor analysis results reveal an important confirmation of the theoretical findings in the literature with respect to the four OC types (i.e. clan, adhocracy, hierarchical, and market) that were originally developed for use in the corporate sector. The independent samplet‐test results suggest that the faculty members perceive all the four OC types as being significantly different between public and private HEIs.

Practical implications

This paper raises awareness and provides initial guidelines to both public and private HEIs in formulating strategies on how to deal properly with their OC from the perspective of their faculty members for the attainment of organisational goals and vision.

Originality/value

This article extends knowledge on OC differences between the public and private higher education – an enabler for change management of sorts. Being among the first of its kind, it further opens up new lines of future research possibilities.
Exploring the relationship between organizational learning and career resilience among faculty members at Qatar University
Authors: Abu‐Tineh Abdullah M.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Two main purposes guide this study. The first is to assess the level of individual, group, and organizational learning at Qatar University (QU), and the level of career resilience among its faculty members. The second is to explore the relationships between these levels of learning at QU and the career resilience of its faculty members.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is quantitative in nature and was conducted using a survey methodology as its research design. A variety of statistical techniques were utilized in this research. A multiple regression model, the Pearson production‐moment correlation coefficient (r), means, and standard deviations were used as the main statistical techniques.

Findings

The findings of this study indicated that faculty members at QU practice three different levels of learning – i.e. individual learning, departmental learning, and university learning – separately or combined in a moderately high way. Further, the results clarified that faculty members at QU perceived themselves to have a moderately high level of career resilience. In terms of the relationship between career resilience and the three different levels of learning, the results of the Pearson production‐moment correlation coefficient (r) and the coefficient of determination, R2, statistically confirmed the positive, modest, and significant relationship between career resilience and the three levels of learning combined.

Originality/value

A hypothesized correlation between career resilience and organizational learning is affirmed. The results of this study confirm the feasibility of connecting two emerging frameworks, i.e. organizational learning and career resilience. Therefore, studying the organizational learning of faculty members is a device that can be used to predict the possibility of faculty members adopting the characteristics and values of a learning organization in their academic life individually or organizationally, while displaying minimal dysfunctional behavior through their career resilience.
The role of the HR department in organisational change in a British university
Authors: Edgley‐Pyshorn Charlotte , Huisman Jeroen
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the role of human resources (HR) in organisational change at higher education institutions (HEIs) and the perceptions of those within the organisation towards the HR department and their capability in leading a change initiative.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives were achieved through a case study in which an HR department at a British university was undergoing a cultural change initiative, implemented by the HR department. Primary research was collected by analysing documents underlying the change project. Also 12 semi‐structured interviews of 30‐40 minutes were carried out; interviewees were chosen based on the need to have a cross‐section including members of the change team and the pilot departments.

Findings

The HR departments at HEI may be faced with difficulties when attempting to implement change due to the relatively “new” nature of the function, meaning that they must first justify their position, worth and capability before attempting to gain the buy‐in of academic departments to implement a culture change in their departments.

Research limitations/implications

More research could be carried out into a cross‐section of British universities with HR‐led change initiatives to broaden the data collection. Limitations in this research include the relatively small number of interviewees. A greater cross‐section of interviewees would have been beneficial.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper is in the relatively un‐discussed nature of the role of the HR department in change initiatives at HEI and how this could be improved, therefore this could be beneficial for HR departments in this sector.
A design‐oriented approach to organizational change: insights from a military case study
Authors: Barbaroux Pierre
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the principles supporting organizational change management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a qualitative study from a single case which focuses on how the military (NATO) transformed their functionally integrated organizational form to gain additional flexibility and responsiveness.

Findings

The findings indicate that the transformation of military organizations has led to reshaping and aligning communication artifacts and organizational structures. In addition, it also entailed significant adaptations of the way knowledge is divided, allocated and coordinated among units, with a particular emphasis on standardization processes.

Research limitations/implications

The implications of this study for scholars and practitioners are twofold. First, it shows that the conditions for success in organizational transformation reside in the consistency of the design strategy adopted by the organization. In particular, the findings provide evidence that the alignment of the structural and cognitive designs is critical but hard to achieve. Second, organizations and managers should devote time and effort to support the codification and standardization of both component and architectural knowledge. This contribution is limited by looking at a single case. On the premise that model generalization depends upon extensive empirical data, the current paper should be considered as a preliminary/exploratory research that aims at identifying the principles supporting organizational change management.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper is to look at military organizations to elaborate on a theoretical model of organization design which links together the structural and cognitive views and discuss its main implications for organizational change management.
The concept of organizational change capacity
Authors: Soparnot Richard
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Change implementation presents a major challenge to managers. However, theoretical and empirical works waiver between the change management action and the management of the change/initial conditions. These opposing views reflect the theoretical instability, which characterizes work on organizational change. Faced with this theoretical mosaic, the question of knowing what the change capacity is, is fundamental. The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework for change capacity and to identify its dimensions and components.

Design/methodology/approach

To deal with this stake, the author conducted a single case study and observed an organization that had acquired the status of a company with change capacity. The Renault SA group makes for an interesting case. Renault, a 100‐year‐old company, is considered to be capable of undergoing change, of following its environment and even of shaping its own environment.

Findings

The study leads to the identification of three dimensions of the change capacity. These are the context, process and learning dimensions. The context dimension consists of resources that facilitate the change process. The process dimension incorporates principles of implementing change. Finally, the learning dimension tackles the introspective capacity of the organization.

Originality/value

If the literature on change capacity focuses more on the outcome of the capability than on the capability itself, the study has enabled the proposing of a framework for change capacity and to identify its dimensions and components. This framework is interesting in two respects. First, it shows that change capacity is as much linked to its management as it is dependent on the initial conditions. Second, it provides direction towards a strategic management of change.
Consultant‐client relationship: one of the secrets to effective organizational change?
Authors: Chalutz Ben‐Gal Hila , Tzafrir Shay S.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the link between interpersonal and organizational factors in consultant‐client relationships and their contribution to the effectiveness of an organizational change process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors designed two studies in order to gain insightful information, both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Study 1 is composed of semi‐structured one‐on‐one interviews conducted with pairs of clients and consultants. Study 2 is designed as a quantitative study and is a direct expansion of study 1. The sample, conducted between the years 2002 and 2007, is composed of departments within organizations that underwent an organizational change process, in which external consultants took part.

Findings

The authors found that a high level of commitment to change has a positive effect on the successful implementation of organizational change as a whole. Also, high levels of dyadic trust in the consultant‐client relationship result in higher levels of consultant commitment to the change process. Finally, consultant commitment to change partially mediates the relationship between trust and successful implementation of organizational change.

Originality/value

The paper explores the link between individual and organizational levels in pursuing organizational change processes and attempts to clarify this link.
Diversity and diversity policy: diving into fundamental differences
Authors: van Ewijk Anne R.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer scholars an analytical framework to identify what the fundamental choices are in the definition of diversity (the what), in the motivation for diversity within organisations (the why), and in diversity policy as an organisational strategy (the how). It also hopes to stimulate diversity professionals to reflect upon the underlying assumptions of their policies and, if needed, provide inspiration as to how to align them towards a more coherent approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Academic contributions from political, social and management theory on diversity and diversity policy are analyzed on their conceptual coherence to identify important research gaps and construct an analytical framework that can serve to fill these gaps.

Findings

Although increasing societal diversity challenges many organisations to change and facilitate diversity within their structures, defining diversity and diversity policy is an uncommon habit both in the professional practice and in academic studies, while this definition influences the scope and validity of research results and can have a considerable impact on the practical consequences of diversity initiatives. The few studies in this field tend to be quantitative and jump to explanations for differences. The proposed analytical framework contains fundamental choices in the definition of diversity (the selection, interpretation, and categorization of modes of differentiation), the motivation for diversity within organisations (the desired base of difference is individual or collective, and arguments are moral or practical), and the diversity policy approach (the intensity is high or low, and the relevance of collective difference is high or low).

Originality/value

A theoretical exploration of the concept of diversity and diversity policy draws on sources from three distinct disciplines that have not been combined in such a way before, resulting in a new analytical framework that facilitates theory building and policy learning on the topic.
Deviation and escalation: decision‐making pitfalls illustrated
Authors: Hung Yishuo , Jason Huang Heh , Gosling Mark
Published: September 2011

Purpose

It seems that the only constant of this rapid‐changing world is the “change” itself – whether it is from the organization itself or from its outer environment. From multinational corporation managers to local franchise investors, abilities to cope with changes are definitely essential. The purpose of this paper is to provide no magic but a framework that helps decision makers watch their steps while making strategic plans.

Design/methodology/approach

Working from the perspective of the resource‐based view (RBV) for sustained competitive advantage, the paper looks into the decision‐making process by considering constraints and illusions. The journey of deviation from the ideal goal starts when the decision maker is attracted by a maze of illusions. The paper illustrates the phenomena of escalation of commitment in static and in deterioration‐in‐motion.

Findings

For the recovery from an errant path, awareness is of the essence and a constant awareness of the organization's chances and pitfalls would be the only way to regain competitive advantage.

Originality/value

By bringing together the concept of the RBV of competitive advantages and the phenomena of escalation of commitment, the paper provides a concise framework and illustration that is easy to be reminded of for organization decision makers who are constantly facing challenges in this ever‐changing world.
Clashes between contending market regimes: a challenge for firms in converging industries
Authors: Bengtsson Maria , Johansson Marlene
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that describes three contending market regimes in converging industries, and to use this framework to study clashes between different regimes and the implication they have on firms' competitive strategies. More specifically, the challenges of competitors simultaneously acting in accordance with a competitive, a cooperative, and a co‐opetitive market regime.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory case study of the interaction between firms within the IT and telecom industry is conducted.

Findings

The paper brings forward clashes between different market regimes in converging industries and six propositions are formulated. The study furthermore shows how firms respond differently to a demand‐driven convergence, some act in accordance with a competitive regime and try to exclude others whereas others act in accordance with the co‐opetitive regime and cooperate with competitors to develop new product offers.

Research limitations/implications

The paper concludes that there are several challenges in transforming from a competitive to a co‐opetitive regime, and there is therefore a need to further explore the clashes observed in this study.

Originality/value

Few empirical studies have been conducted of the converging IT and telecom industries and this paper reveals several new insights about this market context and the challenges it provides. The paper develops a theoretical framework for an analysis of converging industries and provides an insight about clashes that develop between different market regimes. It also describes the challenges firms are facing as a result of these clashes.
Understanding managers' marketing strategy choice in a collaborative competition industry
Authors: Meng Jie , Layton Roger A.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Competition and cooperation co‐exist in various sub‐fields of organizational strategies, while a research gap remains in the links between how managers perceive their cognitive relations with rival partners and how they choose a strategy. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how different focuses of competition and cooperation are put in core and supportive strategic importance based on business manager's individual perception toward a particular rivalling cognition.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is developed composed by several hypotheses. An empirical study is conducted by analysing data collected from 89 pharmacies, including public hospital pharmacies and community service, private chain retailing pharmacy, and independent pharmacies, out of hundreds of outlets in a capital city in China to test hypotheses. By using factor analysis and correlation analysis, several hypotheses are supported in linking competitive cognition with either core marketing strategies or supportive marketing strategies.

Findings

Observational results indicate that large and small pharmacies, motivated by relational perceptions among competitors, tend to rely selectively on some strategic tools of competition and cooperation in terms of their different business nature.

Practical implications

These results are valuable for business managers in the healthcare industry, enabling them to rethink their relations with strategic partners and their strategies.

Originality/value

The paper's findings enrich understanding of how a competing environment influences strategic orientation of competition and cooperation under a collaborative marketing framework.
Can Brazilian firms survive the Chinese challenge?
Authors: Akhter Syed H. , Fernando Pinto Barcellos Paulo
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply the structure‐conduct‐performance theory and the strategic fit concept to examine the effects of globalization on markets, strategies, and performance of business‐to‐consumer firms in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a qualitative approach to answer the research questions. Top decision makers such as president, chief executive officer, chairman of the board, vice president, and director of the companies were interviewed. The elite approach to in‐depth interviewing was followed to obtain reliable information from the decision makers.

Findings

Findings indicate that globalization and especially the entry of Chinese firms significantly changed market contexts in Brazil. Brazilian executives responded to changes in market contexts by shifting from production to customer orientation, building brand equity, developing new products, and differentiating offerings. Overall, marketing performance of Brazilian firms was positive, but profitability suffered.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature by showing that globalization has changed market contexts in Brazil by developing a new form of competition in which firms from emerging economies are now competing against each other. Findings from this study can provide useful theoretical and strategic insights into the behavior and performance of firms in other emerging markets.
Filling the black box of implementation for health‐promoting schools
Authors: Rowling Louise , Samdal Oddrun
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Achieving organisational learning and greater specificity for implementation action for health‐promoting schools requires detailed understanding of the necessary components. They include: preparing and planning for school development, policy and institutional anchoring, professional development and learning, leadership and management practices, relational and organisational context, student participation, partnerships and networking, and sustainability. This paper seeks to elaborate a theoretically based rationale for how these eight components of implementation that needs to be put into action.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on the narrative synthesis in the complementary paper (“Theoretical base for implementation components of health‐promoting schools”, this issue), examples drawn from empirical research and evaluation reports in the field of health‐promoting schools are used to operationalise the function of the components.

Findings

This elaboration anchors specific implementation actions within their own theoretical and empirical base, a significant advance on previous guidelines. The eight components have been articulated separately. However, in practice they operate interdependently. Context and culture issues also need to be accommodated.

Practical implications

The level of specificity provided in this paper has the potential to enhance school staff professional learning, as it fulfils one of the characteristics for successful school‐based education, namely practical, detailed implementation and enough flexibility, allowing shaping to suit specific contexts.

Originality/value

The identification of this knowledge base should enable practitioners to develop an in‐depth understanding of the operational functioning of existing guidelines, thereby enhancing their practice. The specificity provided holds promise to enhance the science base and quality of implementation.
Theoretical and empirical base for implementation components of health‐promoting schools
Authors: Samdal Oddrun , Rowling Louise
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Efforts to create a scientific base for the health‐promoting school approach have so far not articulated a clear “Science of Delivery”. There is thus a need for systematic identification of clearly operationalised implementation components. To address a next step in the refinement of the health‐promoting schools' work, this paper sets out to delineate implementation components of health‐promoting schools and to identify their mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The implementation components were identified through a narrative synthesis of documents describing implementation of health‐promoting school approaches. Studies were included if they were published between 1995 and June 2010 and could be identified in publicly accessible peer‐reviewed articles and grey literature, published in English. Eight sources were extracted, representing reports from all continents with the exception of Africa.

Findings

Eight components were identified: preparing and planning for school development; policy and institutional anchoring; professional development and learning; leadership and management practices; relational and organisational support context; student participation; partnerships and networking; and sustainability.

Practical implications

The components provide a practical tool/guide for schools to use in the implementation of health‐promoting schools. In a parallel paper theoretically and empirically based practice guidelines for the actual implementation of the components are articulated (“Filling the black box of implementation for health‐promoting schools”, this issue).

Originality/value

The identification of specified theory‐driven implementation components for health‐promoting schools aims will help practitioners to understand the function of each component, so they can execute them with fidelity and thus contribute to rigorous implementation of the health‐promoting school initiative.
Privatisation and manpower capability development
Authors: Elgrari Omran , Ingirige Bingunath
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the current status of manpower capability, and to identify the key factors that influenced the development of manpower capability within private house building companies in Libya.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim and the proposition of the research are set out after a literature review and synthesis. Then a multiple case study approach is adopted to conduct exploratory case studies into joint venture housing projects.

Findings

The findings of the study confirm that there should be an interlinked tripartite strategy between the Government, foreign investors and local private house building firms to improve manpower capability so that the Government's housing targets are achieved and sustained. The proposed integrated framework offers a targeted approach to achieve a stepped change in achieving both a quantitative and qualitative growth in housing.

Originality/value

The paper makes an original contribution to the knowledge on joint venture house building in developing countries. The research identifies the current strengths and weaknesses of manpower in professing a stepped change in the area to meet the needs of the Government's housing target, and while the majority of the changes are applicable within the Libyan case study context, opportunities exist to generalise towards other developing countries thereby to gain further value out of this research.
Towards a resilient strategy for technology‐enhanced learning
Authors: Hall Richard
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper sets out to argue that the strategic implementation of technology is implicated in a range of crises or socio‐economic disruptions, like peak oil, climate change and the rising environmental costs of energy consumption. It aims to argue that institutional technological implementation is contested, complex and should not be treated deterministically, but that technologists might usefully consider the impact of these disruptions on their practices. The paper seeks to amplify how a focus on resilience, rather than marketised outcomes, can enable higher education to use technology to overcome or adapt to disruption and crises.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a critique. A conceptual analysis of the place of current research into the use of technology‐enhanced learning in higher education is critiqued in light of peak oil and climate change, in order to align strategic developments with disruptions and potential responses. The strategic response of one institution is outlined as a programme‐of‐work, and is related to a second university's approach.

Findings

The paper highlights five areas that require strategic responses to the use of technology in and for HE. These are: the place of TEL in the idea of the University; complexity in the use of technology, linked to shared values; adapting to disruption; institutional planning; and competing priorities for the use of technology.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the educational connections that are made between the politics of technology, shared values and socio‐environmental disruption. It also analyses a programme of work that is designed to engage with and adapt to disruption.
Future models of higher education in Scotland
Authors: Comrie Andrew
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss and provide examples of different collaborative models that are emerging and to argue that a technology‐enhanced, socio‐constructivist approach to future collaborative curriculum design and delivery enables partnership working and provides curriculum design solutions that supports delivery in different ways. The paper seeks to argue that the driver for motivating programme teams to work collaboratively and embed technology into future programme designs comes both from a changing economic and funding climate and a pedagogic driver to offer value to the learner. The paper aims to present exemplars of using technology to transform programme delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

Outcomes and deliverables from different technology‐enhanced learning projects and the work of the Edinburgh, Lothians, Fife and Borders Regional Articulation Hub (ELRAH) have been examined to establish whether technology‐enhanced learning, teaching and access models could enable universities and colleges to work collaboratively to provide a more flexible and accessible model of HE in the future. The paper uses examples of technologies and professional development that is being used to support technology‐enhanced, collaborative HE programme development, and, while the paper focuses specifically on the debates taking place in Scotland, the insights provided are relevant to similar debates taking place in the rest of the UK.

Findings

The paper argues that “edgeless universities” are needed to achieve the reforms needed to deliver an HE system that offers the flexibility of access and efficient delivery required in the future. A future higher education system that demands efficiency and more flexibility through partnership and collaboration must use technology to form partnerships if they are to generate radical changes to future programme designs that enable flexible access. The paper argues that a traditional “one size fits all“ model for tertiary education does not meet a vision for wider access to HE. Institutions will need to adopt different strategies for engaging staff in collaborative curriculum developments and need to provide strong leadership to direct engagement.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is that it presents ways in which FE and HE institutions can work collaboratively to create a more radical, technology‐enabled, collaborative approach to future HE curriculum development in Scotland.
Entrepreneurship and SME growth: evidence from advanced and laggard transition economies
Authors: Hashi Iraj , Krasniqi Besnik A.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the impact of firms' technological capability and other firm and environmental characteristics on the growth of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in six transition countries at different stages of transition. It compares three advanced Central Eastern European countries (Poland, Hungary, and Czech Republic) with three laggard countries in South Eastern Europe (Albania, Macedonia, and Serbia and Montenegro).

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical framework is proposed based on three groups of factors influencing SME growth: innovative and entrepreneurial features of the firm, characteristics of the firm, and those related to the institutional/business environment. Subsequently this paper uses the Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) conducted by the World Bank/EBRD in 2002 and 2005 to test a number of hypotheses regarding the determinants of SME growth.

Findings

The two groups of countries have similarities and differences: both display similar trends with respect to the growth process; both are affected by entrepreneurship activities positively; but the institutional barriers affecting the two groups are somewhat different. It was also found that, despite the growing importance of SMEs in all transition economies, they still face many institutional barriers – which have prevented them from making a greater contribution.

Research limitations/implications

The key limitations of the empirical investigation are the qualitative nature of survey data and the shortcomings associated with self‐declaration of entrepreneurs. It is important for future research to complement this line of research with panel data.

Originality/value

This cross‐country study extends current understanding of the determinants of SME growth in various stages of transition economies based on a unique data set. It also provides some implications for policymakers as well as entrepreneurs/managers for improving the growth of SMEs.
A multidimensional examination of a creativity‐based opportunity recognition model
Authors: Hansen David J. , Lumpkin G.T. , Hills Gerald E.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to detail an exploratory examination of a multidimensional, creativity‐based theoretical model of opportunity recognition originally proposed by Hills et al. and later refined by Lumpkin et al., but never empirically tested. The paper also aims to examine the relationship between individual dimensions of the model and creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

Analyses were conducted using AMOS software on a sample of 145 entrepreneurs. One structural equation model (SEM) and three confirmatory factor analysis models were tested.

Findings

The five‐dimensional model – consisting of preparation, incubation, insight, evaluation, and elaboration – was determined to be the best fitting model. The SEM model also indicated that incubation and elaboration were significantly related to creativity. Overall, a multidimensional, creativity‐based approach to modeling opportunity recognition is supported by this study.

Research limitations/implications

Cross‐sectional data do not allow for testing of the process aspect of the model; however, they do provide evidence that the model can stand up to empirical tests of the five elements of the model. Future research should examine opportunity using multiple dimensions and a creativity perspective. Additional research is needed to examine the process aspects of opportunity recognition.

Practical implications

Fostering opportunity recognition processes that are iterative and involve multiple stages is likely to promote more creative entrepreneurial outcomes.

Originality/value

This study provides one of the few examples of a multidimensional perspective on opportunity recognition as well as an empirical examination of a creativity‐based theoretical model of opportunity recognition.
Managing success factors in entrepreneurial ventures: a behavioral approach
Authors: Awais Ahmad Tipu Syed , Manzoor Arain Faisal
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the links between entrepreneurial behavior and success factors in a developing country context.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was selected to analyze real‐life situations in order to gain an insight about entrepreneurial cognition and action related to success factors. Drawing from the behavioral theory of entrepreneurship, this paper presents a conceptual model which shows that entrepreneurial cognitions about success factors may lead toward entrepreneurial actions. The data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews. Three entrepreneurs were asked to outline responses to identified success factors such as start‐up planning, managing risk, learning, networking, managing human resource, and managing finances.

Findings

The results suggest that many behavioral patterns exhibited by the case study entrepreneurs were similar to entrepreneurs' behavior in more developed regions. The similarities include: preparation of business plan, ability cognition for start‐up planning, overconfidence and representativeness heuristics for managing risk, obtaining professional outsider assistance for learning, developing business relationships with suppliers for networking and favorable credit policies, and employing owner‐related and delaying‐payment methods of bootstrapping for managing finances.

Originality/value

For the first time in Pakistan this study explores entrepreneurial cognition and action in managing success factors. The findings of the research will potentially help practitioners and policy makers in nurturing entrepreneurial initiatives in a developing country context.
The diagnosis and epidemiology of autism
Authors: Pasco Greg
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the way in which autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is identified, defined and diagnosed; and how changes in the conceptualisation and understanding of autism have impacted on clinical practice and research findings. Specific issues relating to the nature of Asperger syndrome and the profile of females with ASD are discussed. Finally, the apparent increase over time in the incidence of autism is considered.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a non‐systematic review of the current literature relating to the diagnosis and epidemiology of autism.

Findings

Despite its diverse presentation and complex aetiology, the autism spectrum is increasingly well understood amongst professionals and the general public. Diagnostic criteria are revised periodically and new versions of the formal definitions are due to be published soon. The prevalence of ASD appears to be in the region of 1 per cent. There is a clear perception that the true incidence of autism is on the increase and, despite several well‐conducted epidemiological studies, it remains impossible to confirm or refute this notion.

Practical implications

Diagnosis in clinical practice should involve some reference to the formal criteria, the use of standardised diagnostic instruments and should ideally take place within a multi‐disciplinary team setting.

Originality/value

This paper provides an up‐to‐date review of current diagnostic practice for all professionals working with children and adults with ASD.
Intervention in autism: a brief review of the literature
Authors: Mills Richard , Marchant Stephen
Published: September 2011

Purpose

There are many treatments and interventions available to families and carers of children with autism, many without any solid evidence base. This paper aims to present and discuss the literature on some of the commonly used and better researched interventions.

Design/methodology/approach

Research literature drawing on systematic reviews in particular, where available, was collated and summarised under the subheadings of psycho‐educational, psycho‐pharmacological, and complementary interventions or therapies.

Findings

There are very few interventions that have a solid research base. Even those with the strongest evidence base, such as early intensive behavioural intervention, have not necessarily been found to have a universally positive impact. Recent studies have been methodologically stronger, but there are still many weaknesses in the research to date.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to provide a balanced and independent view of the literature on different interventions for autism.
Promoting social inclusion for children and adults on the autism spectrum – reflections on policy and practice
Authors: Roberts Rachel , Beadle‐Brown Julie , Youell Darran
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the issue of social inclusion for people with autism spectrum conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on current policy and good practice guidelines as well as the experience of people with autism and those who support them, this paper considers how well legislation, policy, and good practice are currently implemented with regard to improving the social inclusion of children and adults with autism spectrum conditions.

Findings

International and UK policy sets out the rights of children and adults with disabilities to live a good life in the community, with reasonable adjustment to be made by society to ensure this is possible. However, the practical and strategic implementations of policies to ensure these rights for people with autism are still not fully in place.

Originality/value

This discussion takes into consideration the views of carers and support professionals and the direct experiences of those with autism as well as policy and published guidance.