bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contingent use of stretch goals: considerations of workflow integration and risk deviation
Authors: Eugene Hughes R.
Published: April 2007

Stretch goals or targets ask an employee to go beyond the possible (and merely difficult) to the impossible. This performance requirement violates the generally accepted criterion for goal setting that require goals to be verifiable and attainable, with difficulty. Yet, stretch goals are an accepted management tool in organisations such as General Electric. The present paper discusses the potential for the successful implementation of stretch goals based on considerations of workflow integration and risk deviation.
Case study methodology as a means of theory building: performance measurement in facilities management organisations
Authors: Amaratunga Dilanthi , Baldry David
Published: April 2007

Uses a research study (involving case study analysis of performance measurement in facilities management organisations) to describes the process of theory building. From this study it draws out lessons about research strategies – from specifying the research questions to reaching closure – and about the strengths and weaknesses of case study method as a research tool.
Effective management through delegation
Authors: Muir John
Published: April 2007

Management is concerned with the pulling together of resources so
that jobs are done efficiently and objectives are met within the
time‐scale laid down. Of prime importance among those resources are the
people involved – effective management of people is essential if
we are to take full advantage of their skills and aptitudes. It is not
just a question of using skills and aptitudes for the benefit of the
firm but also of providing encouragement and motivation for the people
concerned (which maintains the benefit to the firm in the longer term).
One way of providing encouragement is by showing trust through
delegation. Effective delegation provides benefits in both directions.
It is up to the supervisor or manager concerned to pay very close regard
to the abilities, strengths and weaknesses of his or her staff and
allocate work to them accordingly. To get through the work the staff
also must have the appropriate authority and so the manager must
delegate it. It is in this activity that the manager is exercising one
of his or her most important functions.
Early empowerment creates productive outcomes during an
organizational transformation
Authors: Prybuto Victor R. , Kappelman Leon A.
Published: April 2007

This work shows how empowerment of the employee during the planning
and implementation of the training programme contributes to the success
of the entire organizational transformation programme. We conducted a
study while a major bank attempted to achieve an organizational
transformation. We studied the effect of the training versus training
and empowerment (i.e. self‐scheduling of their training) on the
employee′s satisfaction with training, motivation towards the
transformation and satisfaction with the transformation. We show that
user participation in appropriate training‐related activities provided
the employees with a chance to feel empowered. Moreover, such a feeling
of empowerment contributed to the success of the organizational
transformation because it resulted in increased employee motivation and
satisfaction.
Life’s chances and choices – A study of entrapment in career decisions with reference to Becker’s side bets theory
Authors: Drummond Helga , Chell Elizabeth
Published: April 2007

This paper explores a phenomenon known as entrapment. Entrapment refers to situations where people become “locked into” decisions through the passage of time as distinct from actively re‐investing in failing projects. The present study examines Becker’s so called “side bets” theory which suggests that entrapment results from extraneous investments made during the course of employment. The exploration is conducted via two contrasting case studies of solicitors, one successful, the other unsuccessful. Analysis suggests some support for Becker’s theme. More importantly the study reveals thatpost hocrationalization of events plays an important part in sustaining persistence. This insight raises a question. Do people become trapped by events as Becker suggests, or, do they largely imprison themselves?
Effecting HRM‐style practices through an integrated human resource information system
Authors: Tansley Carole , Newell Sue , Williams Hazel
Published: April 2007

In examining attempts to move towards HRM‐style practices in organisations, the term “greenfield” helps to conceptualise the break with existing employee relations practices, either on new or on existing sites, or to undertake a philosophical break with the past. Focuses on one stimulus to such transformational change – the development of human resource information systems (HRIS) as an opportunity structure that can enable a break with the past. Considers a case study of a large company implementing an HRIS integrated with other functional systems, to examine whether an e‐greenfield site exists. This is defined as a break with the past in the design and use of a computerised HRIS at either new or old organisational locations, to facilitate a greenfield HR philosophy and enable a more strategic role for HR specialists.
Cultivating culture in greenfields
Authors: Hursthouse Paul , Kolb Darl
Published: April 2007

The establishment of new plants in greenfield sites is a strategic organisational initiative providing the opportunity to develop alternative systems of staff values and beliefs which may be more appropriate for capitalising on external product market opportunities. Explores whether an alternative organisational culture can be established at a greenfield site within a New Zealand food processing plant. This case organisation utilised the provisions of the Employment Contracts Act 1991 to establish alternative employment conditions in the greenfield site to those of its brownfield site. A comparative analysis was made utilising quantitative organisational culture data from Human Synergistic’s Organisation Culture Inventory. The data reveal the similarities and differences between the greenfield and brownfield sites and provide the basis for discussion of whether culture can be managed through the mechanism of a greenfield site. Critical elements in creating a desired culture are identified.
Communication and consultation in a greenfield site company
Authors: Glover Linda
Published: April 2007

Explores employee experiences of HRM within a division of a non‐unionised Korean owned MNC, which comprised a mix of greenfield site and brownfield site factories. Explores employee perceptions of the effectiveness of communication and consultation within the company. Incorporates a consideration of the role that gossip, rumour and the grapevine play when formal systems for communication and consultation are not trusted. Examines the conditions that led to a disjunction between the existence of “sophisticated HRM” systems for communication and consultation and positive outcomes in the workplace. Concludes that management action and behaviour were more important in determining HR outcomes than “typical” greenfield site variables such as a brand new factory or a “new” employment philosophy.
Usability testing in a library Web site redesign project
Authors: McMullen Susan
Published: April 2007

An intuitive library information gateway is critical to meeting the information needs of library users in the digital age. This article describes the process involved in redesigning a library Web site. In addition to first determining the goals and requirements for the library Web site, a user and task analysis was conducted for defining the library’s user base and the types of tasks which users might be performing at the site. Usability testing methods, such as observational interviews, provided fresh insights about how users are interacting with the library Web interface as they approach various information seeking tasks. These usability studies uncovered problems related to unclear terminology, proper use of color, size, and location for navigational links, and the need for context sensitive help, built‐in redundancy, and clear and consistent navigation.
Faculty‐librarian partnerships in Australian higher education: critical dimensions
Authors: Bruce Christine
Published: April 2007

Australian higher education is presently subject to a period of substantial change. The needs of the economy and workforce, together with the broader educational role of the university, are leading to focus on lifelong learning as a tool for bringing together the apparently diverging needs of different groups. Within this broader context, the emphasis on lifelong learning and associated graduate capabilities is leading to opportunities for new partnerships between faculty and librarians, partnerships that bring the two groups together in ways that are helping to transform the experience of teaching and learning. This paper explores emerging partnerships in diverse areas, including research and scholarship, curriculum, policy, supervision, and staff development. They are in the early phases of development and result from a broad focus on the learning and information literacy needs of students, as opposed to a narrow focus on using the library and its information resources. Taken together, and viewed from a system‐wide perspective, these partnerships reveal a complex dynamic that is deserving of wider attention across the Australian higher education system and internationally.
Faculty‐librarian collaboration for nursing information literacy: a tiered approach
Authors: Dorner Jennifer L. , Taylor Susan E. , Hodson‐Carlton Kay
Published: April 2007

In an effort to systematically ensure that nursing students have the information literacy skills they need to succeed as healthcare professionals, instruction librarians and faculty members at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, are collaborating in designing a tiered approach to building student research skills, year by year. A series of information literacy competencies for the nursing field was agreed upon, and required courses throughout the undergraduate and graduate programs were targeted as appropriate points for instruction in these competencies. A description of the faculty‐librarian collaborative process which integrated this instruction into Nursing 605 is described, along with information about the Web‐based introductory graduate course.
A path analysis of gender, race, and job complexity as determinants of intention to look for work
Authors: Valentine Sean R.
Published: April 2007

The relationships between intention to look for work and gender, race, and job complexity are assessed using a national sample of working young adults in the USA (n = 3,622). The effects of gender and race on job complexity are also assessed. The results of the path analysis indicate that women perceive greater complexity in their jobs than do men. The findings also suggest that minority groups experience lower job complexity compared to their Anglo counterparts. Finally, intention to look for work was positively affected by racial minority status and negatively influenced by job complexity. The managerial implications of the findings are discussed and recommendations for future research are provided.
Partnership as union strategy: a preliminary evaluation
Authors: Haynes Peter , Allen Michael
Published: April 2007

Two general viewpoints on workplace “partnership” as a union strategy are identified: it is seen as either a potentially effective strategy for restoring union influence, or as fatally flawed. Discusses the determinants of robust union‐management partnership relations in order to assist the evaluation of “partnership unionism” as a union strategy. Outlines a definition of workplace partnership based on practice. Although common elements with earlier attempts to promote or implement union‐management cooperation can be discerned, it is argued that contemporary workplace partnership has distinctive characteristics arising from its specific context. Two cases are used to illustrate the internal dynamics of workplace partnership and the nature of interaction with environmental factors. The necessary components of robust partnership relations are thereby isolated. Partnership is found to be not only compatible with, but dependent upon, stronger workplace organisation. Such an understanding is found to be a possible alternative to accounts that stress union incorporation and demobilisation.
Global Information and Africa: on the crest of a mirage?
Authors: Onyango R.A.O.
Published: April 2007

Discusses moral and philosophical questions raised in the lead paper by Thapisa.
Shift work in Nigerian academic libraries
Authors: Olorunsola Richard , Awolola J.O.
Published: April 2007

The phenomenon of the shift work culture is quite significant in academic library services, and to eliminate it entirely is too idealistic. In attempting to provide an effective service to users, libraries have to extend their closing time into the evenings. Continuing complaints from staff working shifts at the University of Ilorin Library may affect the level of service provided if the complaints are not addressed. This study gathers information about the views of the staff concerning shift duty, and how they cope with the problems caused by shift rotation. Using information gathered by the use of questionnaires and interviews, shift rotation is described together with the problems raised, and suggestions offered for ways to manage a vexing issue.
Copyright questions asked by libraries
Authors: Gadd Elizabeth , Gaston Richard
Published: April 2007

Describes the history, purpose and membership of the Lis‐Copyseek e‐mail discussion list. Reports on an analysis of the year 2000 Lis‐Copyseek archives that was performed to gain an understanding of the copyright questions faced by libraries. Concludes that traffic on the list has increased considerably since the list’s inception. The majority of concerns relate to copyright in the print environment, in particular the regulations concerning short loan collections and course packs. Provides examples of questions and topics libraries are discussing on the list. Recommends that further copyright assistance be provided to libraries trying to work within current regulations.
Human Resources Planning in Swaziland
Authors: Thapisa A.P.N.
Published: April 2007

Aims to shed some light on the modalities and the need for human
resources planning in Swaziland libraries. Systematic forecasts of the
libraries′ future demand for, and supply of labour should be
meticulously undertaken so that Swaziland libraries can put themselves
in a better position to plan for the recruitment, selection, training,
and career paths of staff. Swaziland′s lack of trained personnel with
sufficient knowledge to handle the intricacies of automation has
necessitated the external recruitment of expatriate staff, with serious
implications for the budget. Swaziland assumed the chairmanship of the
SADC Regional Training Council (RTC) which now controls the affairs of
the Human Resources Development Sector. One of the projects of this
sector has been to create a Regional Human Resource Information System
(RHRIS). This project has provided guiding principles to those in the
region whose responsibility is human resources planning and development.
It is essential that SWALA should develop a human resources database for
the library profession through its Sub‐Committee for Human Resources.
The development of a human resources audit in Swaziland libraries will
help to determine what skills, knowledge, and abilities are required for
particular vacancies or jobs. The idea is to collect enough information
which will enable library managers to match their employees to the
available jobs.
Labour market transitions of youth in Germany and Italy
Authors: Soro‐Bonmatí Asunción
Published: April 2007

Compares labour market transitions of young people in Germany and Italy using panel data from the GSOEP and the SHIW. The aim is to investigate whether there are significant cross‐country differences in the patterns of labour market entrance and whether explanatory factors can be identified. The analysis shows that Germans have a significantly higher probability of moving from school to work and from unemployment to employment. They are also more likely to move back to studies if already in the labour force. Further investigation suggests that cross‐country differences in the educational and labour market systems are responsible for the differences found.
Workers’ skill level and information technology: a censored regression model
Authors: Falk Martin , Seim Katja
Published: April 2007

This paper analyses the link between educational qualification structure and information technology (IT) in the service production process. The analysis is based on 1996 cross‐sectional data for approximately 1,000 West German firms. The empirical evidence indicates that IT capital and high‐skilled labor are complements in the production process: firms with higher IT investment output ratios employ a larger fraction of high‐skilled workers at the expense of unskilled workers. To a lesser extent, the positive IT effect carries through for workers with vocational degrees including masters and technicians. Furthermore, we find that firms’ expectations of the future size of their high‐skilled workforce are positively related to their initial IT investment output ratio. To account for censoring in the employment variables, the empirical analysis uses Powell’s Censored Least Absolute Deviations estimators as well as standard Tobit estimators.
Trends and emerging values in human resource management in France
Authors: Cerdin Jean‐Luc , Peretti Jean‐Marie
Published: April 2007

The demographics and the legal and political characteristics of the French environment impact strongly on HR practices in France. Career management, recruitment, training and compensation are chosen in order to highlight some French specificities. An evaluation of the HR function indicates that it should move towards a strategic role. A move towards people management is also perceived. At the beginning of the 2000s, HRM in France exhibits five main trends summed up in this article.
Earnings Transitions of the Low‐paid in Britain, 1976‐91: A Longitudinal
Study
Authors: Gregory Mary , Elias Peter
Published: April 2007

Using a large panel of employees from the New Earnings Survey, examines
the subsequent earnings transitions of those who were in the lowest
quintile of the earnings distribution in 1976. Traces the quintile
earnings positions in 1984 and 1991 of three age groups of 1976 – the
young, the prime‐aged, and older workers. Presents and analyses
transition probabilities for each group, and contrasts the experience of
men and women in terms of the incidence of low pay and its persistence.
Also examines the previous locations within the earnings distribution of
those who were low paid in 1991.
Strategic HRM or managing the employment relationship?
Authors: Kane Bob , Palmer Ian
Published: April 2007

Discusses strategic human resource management (HRM) which
emphasizes the importance of HRM policies and practices being integrated
by a longer‐range HRM strategy, which in turn is an integrated part of
an overall organizational strategy. Proposes an alternative, more
overtly political, employment relations model with HRM policies and
practices as negotiated outcomes which attempt to resolve the often
conflicting expectations of a number of interested parties. Presents a
study in which only one‐third of a sample of Australian HR managers
reported that an HRM strategy had a great or moderately great impact on
HRM within their organization, and there was no evidence that the impact
of an HRM strategy resulted in a reduction of the direct impact of other
factors. More important factors included legislation/regulation,
industry characteristics, organizational strategy and objectives, top
management priorities, organizational size and structure, and the impact
of technological change. In addition, these factors impacted
differentially on HRM practices and policies in areas such as
recruitment, training, pay/ benefits and industrial relations. Suggests
these results support the appropriateness of a broader employment
relations view of the field.
Landmark‐based navigation of industrial mobile robots
Authors: Hu Huosheng , Gu Dongbing
Published: April 2007

Landmark‐based navigation of autonomous mobile robots or vehicles has been widely adopted in industry. Such a navigation strategy relies on identification and subsequent recognition of distinctive environment features or objects that are either known a priori or extracted dynamically. This process has inherent difficulties in practice due to sensor noise and environment uncertainty. This paper is to propose a navigation algorithm that simultaneously locates the robots and updates landmarks in a manufacturing environment. A key issue being addressed is how to improve the localization accuracy for mobile robots in a continuous operation, in which the Kalman filter algorithm is adopted to integrate odometry data with scanner data to achieve the required robustness and accuracy. The Kohonen neural networks have been used to recognize landmarks using scanner data in order to initialize and recalibrate the robot position by means of triangulation when necessary.
CO2 pellet blast tyre mould cleaning off‐line with an industrial robot
Authors: Young Fred
Published: April 2007

Describes the use of robot guided CO2 pellet blast jets for the cleaning of automotive tyre moulds. The mould is rotated on a turntable and the robot guides the jet to clean the complex surface geometry of the tyre mould.
A suboptimal multimedia remote supervisory control of a robotic cell
Authors: Basile F. , Chiacchio P. , Mazzocca N.
Published: April 2007

This paper deals with the problem of developing a low cost remote supervisory control system with multimedia features of distributed robotic cells. The distributed robotic cells are locally controlled by different vendor systems. In the automated factories, a low cost and not isochronous backbone network is usually installed to transfer process data from the production level to the other ones. The proposed architectural prototype makes possible on different remote platforms a supervisory control with full process database access and field audio/video signal. The case of field vocal messages and animated plant synoptic using the low cost factory backbone network has been considered. On the remote station it is possible to use commercial supervisory control applications. A first case study, the remote supervision of a robotic cell, installed in the University of Naples, has given satisfying results. In addition, this application has shown the possibility of using the prototype for educational and research purposes, making available remote access to laboratories.
Optimize your robot’s performance by selecting the right force/torque sensor system
Authors: Perry Dwayne
Published: April 2007

Describes the processes required for the selection of the correct force/torque sensor system for a robot end effector. Covers six axis force/torque sensors and methods for interfacing them to computers and the robot’s control system.
Making virtual manufacturing a reality
Authors: Ledere Gilad
Published: April 2007

Describes virtual manufacturing software which lets production engineers
create life‐like, full‐action mock‐ups of automated
production systems on computer workstations and then analyse and debug them
before investing in costly capital equipment. Virtual manufacturing software
that is compatible with CAD permits the design of manufacturing processes
around three‐dimensional CAD production models. Explains that many
prominent automotive companies are now using this software and gives
examples. Concludes that by using virtual manufacturing as their product
design tools, companies can now integrate product design, manufacturing
system design and production stages, with all participants working with a
single, current database.
Robotic assistants for aircraft inspectors
Authors: Siegel Mel , Gunatilake Priyan , Podnar Gregg
Published: April 2007

Aircraft flight pressurization/depressurization cycling causes the skin to inflate and deflate, stressing it around the rivets that fasten it to the airframe. The resulting strain, exacerbated by corrosion, drives the growth of initially microscopic cracks. To avoid catastrophe, aircraft are inspected periodically for cracks and corrosion. The inspection technology employed is ∼90 percent naked‐eye vision. We have developed and demonstrated robotic deployment of both remote enhanced 3D‐stereoscopic video instrumentation for visual inspection and remote eddy current probes for instrumented inspection. This article describes the aircraft skin inspection application, how robotic deployment may alleviate human performance problems and workplace hazards during inspection, practical robotic deployment systems, their instrumentation packages, and our progress toward developing image enhancement and understanding techniques that could help aircraft inspectors to find cracks, corrosion, and other visually detectable damage.
Education Reform for At‐Risk Youth: A Social Capital Approach
Authors: Jorgensen Bradley
Published: April 2007

Using the Education Queensland Reform Agenda to illustrate examples and approaches to education reform, this article discusses education reform for at‐risk youth. It argues that the characteristics of modernity, the rise of Mode 2 Society, and the power asymmetries associated with the emergence of the politico‐economic will contain the reform ambitions of the Education Queensland and other education reform agendas. It is proposed that the State adopt a transgressive and complimentary set of reform strategies including the adoption of distributed governance, making available meaningful school performance data, encouraging experimentation and facilitating broad stakeholder, community and neighbourhood engagement in school planning and operations. The article argues that measures such as these will assist to mobilize trust, minimise social fragmentation, generate and regenerate community resources, build cohesion, foster the socio‐cultural‐self‐identities of ‘at‐risk’ youth and will assist youth to achieve full participation in a robust and vibrant democracy.
Customer support and new product development ‐ An exploratory study
Authors: Goffin Keith , New Colin
Published: April 2007

Customer support is an essential element in the successful marketing of many products – from domestic appliances to high‐tech computer networks. Many aspects of support are strongly influenced by a product’s design and so customer support requirements should be evaluated during new product development. However, researchers have largely ignored the relationship between new product development and customer support. The current study addressed this gap by using case studies and a workshop, both conducted with leading companies, to identify how customer support is typically evaluated at the design stage and to determine the importance of this aspect of new product development. The results have implications for managers responsible for product innovation – they show the need to allocate adequate resources to integrating customer support requirements into new product development.
A holon‐based process modeling methodology
Authors: Presley Adrien R. , Liles Donald H.
Published: April 2007

Process models are a valuable tool in the design and configuration of enterprises. However, current modeling techniques have shortcomings that prevent them from fully supporting the analysis required to design an enterprise. This is especially true when considering the needs of modeling highly distributed and temporary multi‐company enterprises such as fractal or virtual enterprises. This paper presents a modeling scheme that supports a process‐centered approach to the analysis and design of both conventional and extended enterprises. Using a holon‐based approach to model the components of an enterprise, it allows for the development of integrated business rule, activity, resource, business process, and organizational views of the enterprise using the IDEF suite of modeling methods. The scheme is built around a central IDEF5 model of the enterprise from which the other views are extracted. The paper also describes the technique for developing an enterprise model using the scheme.
Managing a labor strike at a maquiladora industry ‐ A case study
Authors: Dowlatshahi S.
Published: April 2007

ABC Consumer Electronics is headquartered in the USA, with major operations in Mexico. During the Mexican peso devaluation and economic crisis of late 1994, the company faced the greatest labor problem of its long history. The workers’ purchasing power was reduced to nearly one‐half of its value before the crisis. Other underlying and un‐addressed problems at ABC were brought to surface by workers who found themselves incapable of providing the basic necessities of life for themselves and their families. This paper explores the manner in which ABC handled the strike, how the strike affected ABC’s operations and strategies; and the impact of ABC’s decisions on other maquiladoras in Juarez, Mexico is fully explained and delineated. The case’s arguments are supported by the collection of field‐based data, the company’s archival records, numerous interviews, and the US and Mexican statistical abstracts.
Discriminating factors of information systems function performance in Hong Kong firms practising TQM
Authors: Chow Wing S. , Lui King H.
Published: April 2007

This paper proposes an effective way to improve poor performance of ISF. The result finding was based on a questionnaire survey, and the selected respondents were asked to evaluate the adoption level of the TQM concept in governing their information systems function. Through the tests of reliability and validity, the proposed instrument was verified as a good measuring tool. The findings show that dissatisfying performers of ISF should pay more emphasis on the practices of user focus, IS top management support, and IS product/service design.
Improving the manufacturing process quality using design of experiments: a case study
Authors: Antony Jiju
Published: April 2007

Design of experiments (DoE) is a strategy of planning, conducting, analysing and interpreting experiments so that valid conclusions can be drawn efficiently and economically. It has proved to be very effective for improving the process yield, process performance, and process variability. The paper highlights common problems and gaps in the state‐of‐the‐art in DoE. The paper also presents a case study for optimising the product life using DoE methodology. A significant improvement in the product life was observed. The results of the case study were fascinating and would encourage the engineering team within the company to apply this powerful technique in other core processes to achieve process improvement at low costs.
International supply chain agility ‐ Tradeoffs between flexibility and uncertainty
Authors: Prater Edmund , Biehl Markus , Smith Michael Alan
Published: April 2007

Firms operating in an international environment face a host of uncertainties that make it difficult to meet deadlines reliably. To be reliable in an uncertain and changing environment, firms must be able to quickly respond to changes. The ability to do this in a useful time frame is called agility. Unfortunately, measures taken to increase agility often lead to increases in complexity, which works against agility. We propose a theoretical construct linking elements of uncertainty with aspects of agility, pointing out the two‐edged nature of the requisite capabilities. We illustrate our points with examples from five case studies.
Benchmarking best manufacturing practices
Authors: Ulusoy Gündüz , İkiz İlknur
Published: April 2007

Reports on a benchmarking study conducted to quantify how well companies operating in various sectors of Turkish industry match up to best practice, both in the practices they adopt and in the operational outcomes that result, and to test the hypothesis that the closer a company is to best practice, the more likely it is for that company to achieve higher business performance. The survey conducted in 1997 and 1998 included 82 companies from the Turkish electronics, cement, automotive sectors and part and component suppliers to the appliance industry. For data gathering, employs the Competitive Strategies and Best Practices Benchmarking Questionnaire, supported by some follow‐up interviews and one‐day site visits. Classifies two small groups of companies as leaders and laggers, depending on how close they were to best practice. Shows that the leaders have performed better than the laggers in adopting best manufacturing practices and in the achievement of high performance levels. The leaders also have achieved substantially higher business performance than the laggers. Furthermore, observes that large‐sized companies outperform the rest both in terms of their success in implementing best manufacturing practices and in achieving high operational outcomes and that there is no appreciable difference between industrial sectors in implementing best manufacturing practices and in achieving high operational outcomes.
A knowledge‐based simulation model for job shop scheduling
Authors: Abdallah Mohamed H.
Published: April 2007

Constructs a knowledge‐based simulation model for job shop scheduling simulation techniques to build the initial status of the knowledge base. Uses the simulation experiments to study the effect of technological factors, such as machine loading conditions and criteria of scheduling performance requirements, on the selection of scheduling priority rules. Implements the model with real workshop data to test its validity to cater for real‐world situations such as machine group centres, more than one machine and the availability of operators. The proposed model yields satisfactory results.
Trends in outsourced manufacturing – Reducing risk and maintaining flexibility when moving to an outsourced model
Authors: Ghausi Nadjya
Published: April 2007

Discusses present trends towards the outsourcing of manufacturing operations and the benefits that can arise. Cites examples in the computer, communications and graphic display markets.
Laser welding for plastic components
Authors: Jones Ian
Published: April 2007

The latest developments in the use of lasers for welding plastics are reviewed. Lasers were demonstrated as being suitable for welding plastics in 1970. However, it is only now that they are finding wide application following technical developments in transmission laser welding and ClearWeld™, and the availability of small, economic diode laser systems.
Robotic assembly and joining of miniature and MEMS components using adhesive films – test environment and experiences
Authors: Karjalainen Ilpo , Sandelin Teemu , Uusitalo Jani , Tuokko Reijo
Published: April 2007

Currently, adhesive films are replacing glue in many applications in semiconductor packaging and microelectronic assembly. When adhesive films are used to mount components on a PCB, the success of the automatic joining operation depends on many different things. Manufacturers of adhesives use three main values when they are discussing processing parameters in their data sheets. The paper describes in detail the concept of the developed assembly environment for making test joints of miniature and MEMS components using adhesive films.
Mini assembly cell for the assembly of mini‐sized planetary gearheads
Authors: Uusitalo J.J. , Viinikainen H. , Heikkilä R.
Published: April 2007

This paper discusses a novel assembly method and system for a commercially available 8 mm diameter miniature planetary gearhead. Our system comprises a commercially available four‐degree of freedom industrial robot, two vision systems, a force feedback system in the robot wrist, and specially designed flexible part feeders. The system has proved successful in assembling planetary gear units independently. Depending on the task, one can select whether to use the high accuracy and repeatability of the robot or alternatively use programmable frequency vibration in the gripper to stochastically align the parts that the robot handles.
Automation requirement matching through TMC
Authors: Allum Andrew
Published: April 2007

Looks at problems experienced by manufacturers in matching their level of automation to local conditions. Particularly concentrates on the automotive manufacturing sector. Gives examples of different levels of automation. Presents a process developed by the author’s company (Assembly Technology and Test Ltd) called total manufacturing cell (TMC). It recognises that the manufacturing process is a key element in the success or failure of a product and sees development of the manufacturing solution as only one phase in the life of a product.
The ARTstor Digital Library: a case study in collection building
Authors: Marmor Max
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the approach to collection development that has characterized the building of the ARTstor Digital Library.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted is a brief history, overview, and analysis of the development of the ARTstor collections.

Findings

The paper finds that ARTstor has sought to pursue a strategic approach to collection development, taking as its point of departure the needs of potential users.

Originality/value

The paper offers an inside view of the development of a new non‐profit digital library.
MEMS fabrication
Authors: Huff Michael
Published: April 2007

Describes the key attributes of MEMS technology and existing and future business opportunities. Discusses the various stages in the fabrication of MEMS devices and offers guidance regarding the selection of processing methods for deposition, lithography and etching. Also describes the MEMS‐Exchange program and associated network of fabrication centres.
Instrument calibration ‐ a guide through the maze
Authors: Hall Mick
Published: April 2007

Defines Certificates of Conformance, Calibration Certificates, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and National Accreditation for Measurement and Sampling (NAMAS). Shows how instrument users can be confident not only that their instruments are accurately calibrated, but also that they can be proved to be so, by using the services of NAMAS accredited laboratories.
Credanet ‐ advanced electric heating control
Authors: Richards J.P.
Published: April 2007

States that supply industry privatization, its restructuring and strong competition from other fuels means that constant innovation is required in the electric heating business. Credanet is such a product with central programming and remote heater control. Credanet appears similar to a traditional central heating system in its operation and offers superior controllability with its advanced electric heating appliances. Feedback from both end users and specifiers indicate it is considered superior to existing electric heating systems. Credanet’s advanced communication technology also appears suited to other domestic appliances and related areas such as metering.
Spatially continuous six degree of freedom position and orientation sensor
Authors: Danisch Lee , Englehart Kevin , Trivett Andrew
Published: April 2007

This paper describes SHAPE TAPE™, a thin array of fiber optic curvature sensors laminated on a ribbon substrate, arranged to sense bend and twist. The resulting signals are used to build a three dimensional computer model containing six degree of freedom position and orientation information for any location along the ribbon. The tape can be used to derive dynamic or static shape information from objects to which it is attached or scanned over. This is particularly useful where attachment is only partial, since shape tape “knows where it is” relative to a starting location. Measurements can be performed where cameras cannot see, without the use of magnetic fields. Applications include simulation, film animation, computer aided design, robotics, biomechanics, and crash testing.
MBA education in Japan
Authors: Okazaki‐Ward L.I.
Published: April 2007

Postgraduate business education in the higher educational institutions in Japan was poorly developed, and lagged far behind not only the other advanced economies, but in some of the developing countries until the end of the 1980s. However, during the 1990s it has undergone considerable changes as part of the reform in postgraduate education in Japan. This article attempts to explain why MBA education did not develop in Japan in the first place, and then how these changes came about. It also looks at the changes in social and economic backgrounds that promoted and speeded these changes. Finally it attempts to view the future of postgraduate professional education in Japan.
Women managers and diversity programs in Mexico
Authors: Zabludovsky Gina
Published: April 2007

Up to three or four years ago, practically no private company in Mexico was concerned with implementing specific policies to support and advance women executives. However, recently this prospect has begun to change. This article will provide information on the mission, objectives and targets and results of two companies that are starting to introduce special programs to support women’s careers in Mexico and Latin America. In addition, it discusses some research results on the opinions of corporate presidents and human resource directors of the leading corporations.
Facilitating virtual learning groups
Authors: McFadzean Elspeth , McKenzie Jane
Published: April 2007

Today, universities are using technological advances that have enabled them to change their traditional delivery methods. Computer supported collaborative learning permits students to undertake courses via the Internet. This allows students from all over the world to take part in a course where they can gather information not only from the instructor but also from their fellow students. Consequently, the traditional forms of teaching must be adapted to better serve the needs of virtual learning students. The virtual instructor must do more than just communicate information to the students. He or she must learn to support the collaborative process between the learners and to encourage them to work as a team. This article describes a model for facilitating virtual learning groups and presents a case study to illustrate the concepts of running such a group. In addition, a number of implications for planning and supporting virtual groups are presented.
Formulating a metaphysics of governance
Authors: Cutting Bruce , Kouzmin Alexander
Published: April 2007

This article canvasses the components that go to define the concept of governance and develops a framework to provide a coherent explanation of the dynamics of governance and the relationship between its many modes. To illustrate the validity of the governance framework, the paper focuses on the three primary patterns of governance as found in the “real” world; namely markets, hierarchies and networks. The impact of public management reforms of the past two decades is analysed in terms of these patterns of governance and a couple of specific reforms are looked at more closely. Through such discussion, it is possible to gain an appreciation of how the proposed JEWAL synthesis framework can help explain the dynamics of governance both at the level of society and at the level of groups or organizations. Finally, it is demonstrated how the framework is also applicable to governance of the individual’s personal life.
The specification and repair of stone slate roofing within the Yorkshire Dales National Park
Authors: Scott Alan W.
Published: April 2007

Deals with the specification and repair of stone slate roofing within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Initially examines the importance of roofing works and then goes on to give advice on preliminary items of access and safety. The methods of re‐slating are then discussed and specific techniques of details are considered and illustrated. The surveying of stone slate roofs has been the subject of a previous paper.
Developments in Appraising the Total Performance of Buildings
Authors: Douglas James
Published: April 2007

Over the past few years there has been a significant upsurge of interest in building performance and its appraisal. As the expectations and standards of property users increase, appraisers of buildings have had to develop improved evaluation methods. Building surveyors, as key technical appraisal specialists in construction, have a contribution to make in this growing field. A great deal of the extant research on building performance has been at the “micro‐level” where either individual building elements or aspects of a building′s internal environment have been critically evaluated. Such work can highlight component failures and cryptoclimate problems, but it does little to enlarge our understanding of how buildings perform overall. Discusses some of the current issues assessing the total performance of buildings. Refines the model labelled property efficiency appraisal (PEA) for evaluating the total performance of existing buildings. Considers the key factors and influences for a “macro‐level” assessment of the total performance of existing buildings and points the way ahead.
Making notes on a survey
Authors: Wilde Ronald
Published: April 2007

Gives a personal opinion on the part that note taking plays in surveying and report writing, referring to a recent judgment critical of a surveyor who had no written site notes to produce to the court, having dictated a report on site. Also comments on defensive note taking, that is, notes not necessary to enable a report to be prepared but which are required to give protection in the event of the surveyor being wrongly accused of negligence.
Devon Earth Building Association: cob and the Building Regulations
Authors: Ley Tony , Widgery Mervyn
Published: April 2007

Discusses the application of the English and Welsh Building Regulations to the form of earth‐walled buildings of the West Country commonly known as cob. Its aim is to provide designers and controlling Authorities with a better understanding, so as to enable a more informed approach to the approval of earth‐building projects. Presents findings in respect of new building, alteration and extension to existing buildings and the material change of use of cob building. Concludes that such buildings can comply with the Building Regulations, advising that it is essential that the aims of the Regulations are incorporated into the design as early as possible, thereby avoiding conflicting needs at a later stage.
The impact and changing role of the field computer within the surveying profession
Authors: Kane Turlough
Published: April 2007

Reviews the changing role of the field computer in the surveying profession and addresses the primary users and requirements of portable IT in geotechnical applications. Describes the growing trend towards GPS and concludes with a prediction of the design of the surveyors’ mobile computer in the millennium.
Better doors and windows for the elderly and disabled
Authors: Garvin Stephen L.
Published: April 2007

Many elderly people and people with disabilities, who form a significant part of society, are unable to use doors and windows due to the physical effort required. Research at BRE over the past two years has produced a guide for the specification of automatic controls for doors and windows in homes that aid access and improve facilities. The research began in April 1995 and has been undertaken as part of a DETR funded Partners in Technology project with support from numerous industry partners. To assist development of the guide, laboratory and field testing of prototype doors and windows with automatic controls has been undertaken. The results of these studies are described.