bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial potential in Argentina: a SWOT analysis
Authors: Helms Marilyn M. , Rodríguez Martín A. , de los Ríos Lisandro , Hargrave William (Bill)
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the external macro‐environmental forces along with the internal country‐specific attributes of Argentina as they influence entrepreneurship. The experiences with Argentina's financial crisis of 2001‐2002 have highlighted concerns as to whether the past prosperity can ever be regained. Entrepreneurial ability has received much attention in public discussions as a means to revitalize the lagging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The popular strategic management tool of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis is used to group a number of current and emerging issues for the country. Their impact on entrepreneurship is then evaluated.

Findings

Argentina has numerous natural resources that can be developed into new businesses. The slow growth of new venture creation in Argentina can be attributed to the difficulties in obtaining capital financing as well as the new business start‐up licenses and procedures. Further limiting entrepreneurship is corruption, the lack of copyright protection, and difficulty hiring employees. However, the government of Argentina has implemented monetary changes to provide funds and other services for supporting new start‐up companies and a key strength of Argentina for entrepreneurship is the country's resources and products. Major opportunities exist in tourism and investments in the growing wine production industry. The major threat to new venture creation, however, is the current worldwide recession.

Research limitations/implications

Research implications for applying SWOT analysis to a country are discussed. While this tool is largely focused on companies and their issues for strategy development, this paper discusses ways to use the methodology to include ranking or weighting variables in their importance to entrepreneurship. A larger sample of experts is suggested for future research along with surveys of industry leaders to refine the ordering of variables.

Practical implications

Implications for practitioners and policy makers within the country and areas for future research are discussed.

Originality/value

The paper adds value to the existing research about new venture creation and start‐ups in Argentina. In addition, the use of SWOT as a country‐analysis methodology is also extended.
Relating performative and ostensive management accounting research
Authors: Hansen Allan
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The methodological debate relating to accounting research using actor‐network theory (ANT) has primarily focused on how ANT generates performative studies that significantly differ from ostensive studies. These discussions have in many ways (and for good reasons) distanced performative from ostensive research. Recently, however, several scholars have emphasized the interdependencies between ostensive and performative aspects when it comes to knowledge development, thereby underlining the need to coordinate ostensive and performative studies and bring them closer together. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the methodological opportunities and limitations for ANT researchers who seek to move closer to ostensive research.

Design/methodology/approach

The basis for exploring the opportunities and threats stemming from integration at the methodological level is a comparison of performative and ostensive case study methodologies as they have been presented in research. Robert K. Yin's case study methodology is chosen to represent an ostensive view whereas performative case study methodology is represented by the methodological reflections of Bruno Latour, John Law, and Michel Callon.

Findings

The paper illustrates how the process is a balancing act. On the one hand, it requires performative researchers to relate more closely to aspects decisive for ostensive researchers; yet, on the other, they need to preserve the distinctiveness of the performative approach.

Originality/value

This paper exemplifies these issues with reference to management accounting research and contributes by clarifying the methodological implications of moving performative research closer to ostensive research.
The views of managers from a local coastal council on sustainability reporting issues
Authors: Sciulli Nick
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide explanations for the factors affecting sustainability disclosures by a local coastal shire council in Australia. Drawing on the theory of accountability, a further aim is to examine how this information is communicated to stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative and case study approach is adopted for this investigation. The main sources of empirical data are semi‐structured interviews with the senior managers of the council, observation and the use of publicly available documentation.

Findings

Significant issues relating specifically to this council were identified as managing population growth, planning for land use, climate change and community engagement. These issues were addressed through various forums such as the annual report, a sustainability report and through community engagement meetings. There was also little evidence to suggest that the global reporting initiative is influencing how the local council was accounting for its social and environmental activities.

Practical implications

Coastal regions are fragile areas that are subjected to varying degrees of pressure on their environment. This study suggests that community demand for information on sustainability is commencing to change the content of the council's annual report.

Originality/value

Much attention has been paid to the role and extent of sustainability reporting in the private sector, however, less research has been devoted to investigating this area in the realm of the government sector.
Motivation, pay satisfaction, and job satisfaction of front‐line employees
Authors: Stringer Carolyn , Didham Jeni , Theivananthampillai Paul
Published: June 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the complex relationships between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, pay satisfaction and job satisfaction at the retailer that uses a pay‐for‐performance plan for front‐line employees.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on a single organization case study across seven stores, and uses a survey, archival documents, open‐ended questions and researcher interaction with employees and managers.

Findings

The results provide some support for the complementary nature of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation was positively associated with pay and job satisfactions, whereas extrinsic motivation was negatively associated with job satisfaction, and not associated with pay satisfaction. The qualitative insights indicate that pay fairness is important, and those who perceived pay was not fair generally made comparisons with others or felt that pay did not reflect their effort. It is also found that the majority of employees perceived that goals were clear.

Research limitations/implications

The dominance of extrinsic motivation without including behavioural, social, and psychological factors in agency theory research is questioned. The research finds no support for “crowding out”, but rather finds some evidence of “crowding in” where intrinsic motivation is enhanced, to the detriment of extrinsic motivation.

Practical implications

The findings highlight that managers should enhance both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and pay employees well to increase job satisfaction.

Originality/value

Few studies examine incentives for front‐line employees, and there is evidence that minimum wage employees can have high intrinsic motivation. Perceptions of pay fairness can vary across motivation levels, age, and gender.
The diffusion of activity‐based costing in Jordanian industrial companies
Authors: Nassar Mahmoud , Aldeen Al‐Khadash Husam , Sangster Alan
Published: June 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to focus on the diffusion of activity‐based costing (ABC) in Jordan. A conceptual framework from general diffusion theory is adopted to describe the diffusion process within the Jordanian industrial sector. The main objective of the study is to determine the motivations for the implementation or non‐implementation of ABC.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with financial managers and heads of costing departments of companies within the Jordanian industrial sector. Both face‐to‐face and telephone interviews were used to achieve the research objective.

Findings

It was found that the rate of implementation of ABC in the Jordanian industrial sector follows the classical S‐shape. It is also suggested that the supply side of the diffusion process, most notably the role played by consultants, was an influence on many companies. This was not, however, a sufficient condition for companies to implement ABC.

Originality/value

Most previous studies focus on the implementation of ABC in Western developed countries. The results of this study make a contribution to existing knowledge in the area of the implementation of ABC, especially in Eastern developing countries such as Jordan. In addition, this research adds further evidence to the value of studying management accounting, and more specifically changes in management accounting practice. It describes the developments undertaken in the implementation of a new system and how a new system becomes accepted in practice.
Competitive approaches to new product development
Authors: Smith Alan D.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide practitioners of management with a sense of how collaborative team integration processes and new product development (NPD) processes were required in order to be reasonably successful in the current economic recession.

Design/methodology/approach

The four relatively large Pittsburgh‐based general service and/or manufacturing‐oriented companies, most with global operations and reach capabilities, were selected and reviewed for the principles of the strategic, financial, informational, and operational viewpoints.

Findings

Even conservative companies found that more radical approaches to NPD, such as product newness and uncertainty in new product innovation/production, may remove, not increase, barriers to incremental and/or radical manufacturability. This is especially true in firms that make proper use of the managerial connectivity provided by proper use of limited resources, which are enhanced by the timeliness of good strategies.

Practical implications

The roles of uncertainty, supplier influences, team integration processes, as well as technology, may act as change agents, especially under the current economic recession. These factors may result in leveling the playing field for incremental and radical innovators as they integrate processes associated with NPD.

Originality/value

The executive teams involved recognized the need for more radical product offerings by turning their focus to meeting customer needs instead of making risky investments. Through successful product implementation, the companies studied found stability in a very turbulent financial and service‐oriented marketplace.
Coaching and family: the beneficial effects of multiple role membership
Authors: Ryan Timothy D. , Sagas Michael
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Athletic coaches are responsible for team relationships and a team's performance, yet many may leave the coaching profession or withdraw from team management because of work‐family issues. The purpose of this study is to use ecological theory as a guide to theorize on the relationships between work‐factors and work‐family outcomes for team leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were 601 college coaches. Using an online questionnaire, participants evaluated their supervisory support, autonomy in their job, and various work‐family factors. Specifically, the effects of the work‐factors of autonomy and supervisory support were examined on work‐family variables. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

Confirmatory factor analysis results suggested that the fit for coaches and their work‐family interface is best explained by four work‐family dimensions – two directional conflict dimensions and two directional enrichment dimensions. Results suggest that supervisory support correlates with lower conflict and greater enrichment. Additionally, coaches reported that an autonomous workplace correlated with lower conflict and greater work enrichment with family.

Practical implications

Results suggest that it is beneficial to help the coach/team leader to improve fit, even though conflict is inevitable. Previously mentioned, and found throughout the results, was the effectiveness of the supervisor at alleviating conflict and amplifying enrichment.

Social implications

A reason for the disparate number of women in team leadership positions has been family pressure. This research is expected to lay a foundation for future research on the beneficial aspects of multiple role participation.

Originality/value

This research builds on past work on the work‐family fit, which originally focused heavily on conflict, but has just recently started looking at the beneficial aspects of multiple role participation.
Managing and training for virtual teams in India
Authors: Holtbrügge Dirk , Schillo Katrin , Rogers Helen , Friedmann Carina
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the current and potential use of virtual teams in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The use of virtual styles and strategies was assessed through a series of questionnaires, focusing on managerial aspects. The sample consisted of companies and individuals from Europe, who work on virtual assignments. The results were analysed, paying particular attention to the actual usage and potential future usage of virtual assignments.

Findings

It was found that a disparity between the actual and the potential use of virtual delegates exists. Furthermore, the increasing use of virtual delegates requires tailored intercultural training, which meets the specific demands of these delegates and the requirements of virtual teamwork. The paper goes on to discuss how traditional training can be adapted for the training of virtual assignees.

Originality/value

The findings have implications for both academics and practitioners, as they indicate that there is significant potential for further growth in the use of virtual assignments. In particular, the paper highlights the need for specific, dedicated training in virtual assignments, as this has a substantial impact on their success.
US small company leaders' religious motivation and other‐directed organizational values
Authors: Day Nancy E. , Hudson Doranne
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The expansion of religious diversity in US workplaces increases the relevance of leaders' religious motivations and the impact on their organizations. This paper aims to investigate whether small company leaders' religious motivations predict their perceptions that their organization's values are directed to the welfare of others.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was mailed to top executives of Midwestern US firms with 20 to 250 employees, measuring leaders' organizational values and religious motivation. The sample revealed itself to be mostly Christian.

Findings

Findings show that, as predicted, leaders higher in extrinsic religious motivation toward personal benefit were less likely than those lower in this type of religious motivation to perceive other‐directed organizational values. However, neither intrinsic religious motivation nor extrinsic religious motivation toward social ends predicted a tendency to perceive other‐directed organizational values.

Research limitations/implications

Future research directions could assess the impact of beliefs associated with faith traditions on leader values and decision making. Further, a qualitative approach to data gathering may result in richer data. Limitations include a relatively low response rate and a sample skewed toward religiously motivated, mostly Christian small business leaders.

Practical implications

Just because small business leaders are religiously motivated does not mean that their perceived organizational values will be directed toward the welfare of others.

Originality/value

Little research exists about how small business leaders' religious motivations affect their organizational values. This research counters common assumptions that leaders' religious motivations will affect how they view their organizations' values.
A framework of organisational innovation and outcomes in SMEs
Authors: Laforet Sylvie
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine innovation in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), and develop a comprehensive theoretical framework of how innovation occurs, the end result, and impact on business financial performance, focusing on three types of innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a grounded methodology. Interviews with entrepreneurs from across industries inform the development of the research propositions.

Findings

Besides market environment, business and quality aspects, for SMEs innovation is driven by a desire to be successful, and improve working conditions. Positive outcomes of innovation include an enhancement of SMEs' reputation and image, an increase in operational efficiency and cost benefits, resulting in a better business financial performance, recruitment of a more skilled workforce, and greater in‐house expertise leading to further innovation. The negative outcomes of innovation relate to management, operational issues, and financial risks; including costs, uncontrollable business growth, companies' image and reputation loss, employees and customers' issues as well as health, safety, and environmental impacts. Further hypotheses emerge from executives' interviews, regarding specific outcomes of new product development, process innovation, and new ways of working.

Research limitations/implications

Future research is required to examine how negative outcomes can be managed overall, and specific to types of innovation, as well as determining the financial cost and benefit of having a company‐wide innovation.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical basis for understanding organisational innovation in SMEs. The proposed framework is focused and comprehensive, enabling a better understanding of innovation.
Entrepreneurship barriers and entrepreneurial inclination among Malaysian postgraduate students
Authors: Singh Sandhu Manjit , Fahmi Sidique Shaufique , Riaz Shoaib
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Postgraduate students who are more mature and have greater job experience are more likely to be inclined towards entrepreneurship. However, postgraduate students face various barriers such as lack of funds, fear of failure and lack of social networking that may hinder their entrepreneurial inclination. The barriers faced by these postgraduate students may also exhibit different dimensions compared with barriers faced by existing entrepreneurs. This study aims to examine the relationship between perceived barriers to entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial inclination.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a survey‐based methodology, data were collected from a sample of 267 postgraduate students from various Malaysian universities. Respondents' perception towards five barriers to entrepreneurship (aversion to risk, fear of failure, lack of resources, lack of social networking, and aversion to stress and hard work) and their entrepreneurial inclination were assessed.

Findings

The model R‐squared indicated that 31.5 percent of the variation in the entrepreneurial inclination is explained by the five perceived barriers. The highest ranked barrier to entrepreneurship was lack of social networking followed by lack of resources and aversion to risk.

Research limitations/implications

The findings in this study cannot be generalized to non‐student populations since it covers only postgraduate students. The quantitative approach used was unable to uncover in‐depth information on the various barriers. A qualitative approach may be more appropriate to obtain further details.

Originality/value

This research provides interesting insights into the entrepreneurship barriers faced by postgraduate students from a developing nation where such research is lacking.
Understanding workaholism and work engagement: the role of mood and stop rules
Authors: van Wijhe Corine , Peeters Maria , Schaufeli Wilmar , van den Hout Marcel
Published: June 2011

Purpose

This study aims at disentangling the different underlying motivations that drive workaholic and engaged employees to work excessively hard. The Mood as Input (MAI) model serves as an explanatory framework. The MAI model assumes that, dependent on the stop rule used, a different mood state may lead to persistence. When individuals evaluate whether they still enjoy an activity (an enjoyment stop rule), a positive mood would signal enjoyment, resulting in persistence. On the other hand, when individuals evaluate whether they have done enough (an enough stop rule), a negative mood would signal discontentment, which would also result in persistence.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey study (n=173) was conducted to test the applicability of the MAI model to the work context.

Findings

It was hypothesized and found that workaholism is positively related to negative mood and using an enough stop rule to determine when to stop working. In addition, this study showed that work engagement is related to positive mood. The findings did not support the expectation that work engagement is related to using an enjoyment stop rule to determine when to stop working. In conclusion, the results indicate that both mood and stop rules may be useful for explaining the difference in motivation to work persistently between workaholism and work engagement.

Originality/value

The paper advances the understanding of reasons to work hard which are related to work engagement and workaholism. Knowledge about the reasons why employees work hard can help professionals to prevent workaholism, thereby stimulating healthy and enduring careers.
Networking: a valuable career intervention for women expatriates?
Authors: Shortland Susan
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on female expatriates' views on the potential importance of a formalised “women's network” launched by management as a diversity intervention to aid women's career development in an oil, gas and minerals extractive industries firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a triangulated research comprising analysis of company policy, interviews with Human Resources staff, a census survey of women expatriates, followed by in‐depth, semi‐structured female expatriate interviews.

Findings

Women value networking to prepare for expatriation and in working and living abroad. Informal networks are also used by more experienced women expatriates to learn of potential vacancies and gain career development on expatriation and repatriation. A formalised women's network is envisaged as being helpful to supplement these links. In a male‐dominated environment, the value of a network for women is appreciated, although concerns are raised that this might further reinforce gender divisions.

Research limitations/implications

Research was limited to a single case study where the intervention had only recently been launched. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of similar, more established career interventions. Comparative studies are also needed, both within the oil, gas and minerals sector and in other industries.

Practical implications

Employers developing formal networking interventions could benefit from understanding the views of potential users, particularly in respect of the potential limitations of such networks in promoting career development and through the adoption of a gendered approach.

Originality/value

There are relatively few data available on formalised employer actions to set up and run networks specifically for women as career development interventions. This case study provides an insight into how these might be received by – and their potential impact on – female expatriates.
Manufacturing best practices in Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Anuar Afdiman , Mohd Yusuff Rosnah
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the current level of best manufacturing practices in Malaysian ISO 9000 certified small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey on 270 ISO 9000 certified manufacturing SMEs. Based on an extensive search of literature on performance requirements, eight areas were identified. Thus, the questionnaire was designed consisting of the eight areas which are management, human resources development (HRD), technology and product innovation, marketing strategy, quality, production process, supply chain management (SCM) and customer focus. Data were analysed using the SPSS software.

Findings

The results showed that among the eight areas, customer focus is the most implemented area with the highest mean of 4.16, followed by quality (3.92), management (3.78), SCM (3.56), HRD (3.27), marketing strategy (3.05), production process (3.02) and technology and product innovation with a score of 2.95. The results showed that the level of best manufacturing practices can be improved further, especially in the area of technology and product innovation.

Research limitations/implications

Only the companies certified with ISO 9000 were selected. The questionnaire only covered eight areas of benchmarking and was analysed using descriptive statistics.

Practical implications

The paper provides knowledge in assisting the SMEs to identify the areas that they have to improve to achieve best manufacturing practices.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt to benchmark best manufacturing practices in some Malaysian ISO 9000 certified SMEs. The paper provides some useful insights and can help Malaysian manufacturing companies to implement best practices and benchmarking to improve their practices.
Benchmarking supplier risks using Bayesian networks
Authors: Lockamy Archie
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a methodology for benchmarking supplier risks through the creation of Bayesian networks. The networks are used to determine a supplier's external, operational, and network risk probability to assess its potential impact on the buyer organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology includes the use of a risk assessment model, surveys, data collection from internal and external sources, and the creation of Bayesian networks used to create risk profiles for the study participants.

Findings

It is found that Bayesian networks can be used as an effective benchmarking tool to assist managers in making decisions regarding current and prospective suppliers based upon their potential impact on the buyer organization, as illustrated through their associated risk profiles.

Research limitations/implications

A potential limitation to the use of the methodology presented in the study is the ability to acquire the necessary data from current and potential suppliers needed to construct the Bayesian networks.

Practical implications

The methodology presented in this paper can be used by buyer organizations to benchmark supplier risks in supply chain networks, which may lead to adjustments to existing risk management strategies, policies, and tactics.

Originality/value

This paper provides practitioners with an additional tool for benchmarking supplier risks. Additionally, it provides the foundation for future research studies in the use of Bayesian networks for the examination of supplier risks.
Benchmarking a leadership model for the green economy
Authors: Green Daryl D. , McCann Jack
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine benchmarking leadership theories in order to build a new leadership model for the green economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The collection and critical analysis of secondary data from relevant publications were used to evaluate the feasibility of a new leadership model in the green economy. Analysis of organizational and leadership theories has been utilized in order to benchmark future successful efforts.

Findings

The paper found five key issues: there is little research in how the green economy will impact contemporary organizations' strategy, structure, and culture; new theories may need to be developed to assist organizations in developing the right kind of leadership for the green economy; the creation of green jobs may infuse organizations with more emphasis on values and leadership competency; the over dependence on technology to create jobs and sustain society's quality of life carries unintended consequences; and agrarian leadership may offer organizations a better ability to lead workers in the green economy.

Research limitations/implications

The paper examines benchmarking applications that are exclusively relevant in both private and public organizations.

Practical implications

There are several implications for researchers and practitioners related to improving the personal and organizational success of leaders guiding their followers in a green economy. Many countries hope that the green economy will be able to improve their financial situation. Yet, organizations are struggling with the issues of ethical behavior by managers and how to motivate their employees toward greater performance. A new leadership based on agrarian values may be a positive step in addressing these matters.

Originality/value

The paper is significant because it presents a theoretical framework for interpreting how agrarian values can work building the quality of life when applied in a green economy.
An exploratory study of outsourcing 3PL services: an Australian perspective
Authors: Rahman Shams
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Over the last two decades, a large number of studies have been conducted in the field of outsourcing third‐party logistics (3PL) services and the field is growing. The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which 3PL services are outsourced by Australian firms. Specifically, it investigates the motivation for outsourcing, the average length of 3PL contracts, types of logistics services used and the impact of the use of outsourcing logistics services on customer satisfaction, logistics costs and employee morale of the user companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a questionnaire survey conducted in Australia. The sample was drawn from companies listed in Dun & Bradstreet's 500 largest Australian firms. Banks and other financial firms, insurance companies and real estate companies were excluded from the list of firms and a total of 210 firms were identified for this study. Data were collected against a number of items pertaining to the extent of 3PL use and its impact on performance.

Findings

The results revealed that the most frequently used logistics functions are warehouse management, order fulfillment and fleet management. The top three factors that motivated the firms to outsource are cost reduction, reduction in capital investment, and enhanced operational flexibility. The level of satisfaction with 3PL service providers is high at 86 percent and is reflected in the indication to continue their use in the future. However, employee morale has been adversely affected in 50 percent of 3PL users.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the current 3PL practices and the trends in 3PL services for achieving improved business results.
Core process management practices, quality tools and quality improvement in ISO 9001 certified manufacturing companies
Authors: Psomas Evangelos L. , Fotopoulos Christos V. , Kafetzopoulos Dimitrios P.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine, first, the level to which ISO 9001 certified manufacturing companies adopt process management and improve quality, second, the latent factors of process management and quality improvement, and finally, the relationships between the latent factors extracted.

Design/methodology/approach

A research project was carried out in 196 ISO 9001 certified manufacturing companies operating in Greece. A structured questionnaire was designed and pilot tested and then addressed to management representatives of the companies. Descriptive statistics were used in order to determine the level of process management adoption and the level of quality improvement. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were also applied to extract the latent factors of process management and quality improvement and to assess their reliability and validity. The relationships between the latent factors were determined through structural equation modelling.

Findings

Two latent factors were extracted with respect to process management (the core process management practices and the supporting quality tools) and one latent factor with respect to quality improvement. The findings revealed that the ISO 9001 certified manufacturing companies implement to a high degree of the core process management practices, in contrast to the supporting quality tools. Notwithstanding, significant quality improvement is achieved. According to the structural model, the core process management practices have a strong, positive and direct effect on quality improvement. The supporting quality tools have an indirect effect on quality improvement through their significant correlation with the core process management practices.

Originality/value

This paper describes a reliable and valid model that analyzes process management in two latent factors (the core process management practices and the supporting quality tools). The model also depicts the effects of these latent factors on quality improvement of ISO 9001 certified manufacturing companies.
Round‐trip iterative business process modelling between BPA and BPMS tools
Authors: Cheung Melissa , Hidders Jan
Published: June 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to present how iterative round‐trip modelling between two different business process modelling tools can be enabled on a conceptual level. Iterative round‐trip modelling addresses model transformations between high‐level business and executable process models, and how to maintain these transformations in change time. Currently, the development of these process models is supported by different tools. To the authors' best knowledge, no coherent collaborative tool environment exists that supports iterative round‐trip modelling.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is primarily based on a literature review of state‐of‐the‐art business to IT transformations regarding business process modelling. The architecture of integrated information systems (ARIS) and Cordys tools are used as an example case in this research. ARIS is a business process analysis (BPA) tool suited for analyzing and designing business processes, while the execution and monitoring of these processes is allowed by Cordys, a business process management suite (BPMS). The theory is used for transforming between ARIS event‐driven process chains from the business perspective and business process modelling notation in Cordys from the IT perspective.

Findings

A conceptual framework is proposed to couple a BPA and BPMS tool for round‐trip business process modelling. The framework utilizes concepts from the model‐driven architecture for structurally addressing interoperability and model transformations. Ensuring iterative development with two tools requires traceability of model transformations.

Practical implications

In many organizations, BPA and BPMS tools are used for business process modelling. These are in practice often two different worlds, while they concern around the same business processes. Maintaining multiple versions of the same process models across two tools is a considerable task, as they often are subject to design changes. Interoperability between a BPA and BPMS tool will minimize redundant activities, and reduce business to IT deployment time.

Originality/value

This research provides a theoretical base for coupling a BPA and BPMS tool regarding iterative round‐trip modelling. It provides an overview of the current state‐of‐the‐art literature of business process modelling transformations, and what is necessary for maintaining interoperability between tools. The findings indicate what is expected in tool support for iterative development in business process modelling from analysis and design to execution.
IT infrastructure refresh planning for enterprises: a business process perspective
Authors: Daim Tugrul U. , Letts Matthew , Krampits Mark , Khamis Rabah , Dash Pranabesh , Monalisa Mitali , Justice Jay
Published: June 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to research literature to describe the business processes used when planning IT infrastructure refreshes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses analytical hierarchical process (AHP) and pairwise comparisons to model and quantify the decision process for IT infrastructure refreshes.

Findings

The research found that most companies keep their refresh processes private and very little academic research is available on this topic. While supportability, manageability, compatibility, cost, and scalability are important factors to large organizations, performance and availability of the systems are important for smaller organizations.

Originality/value

AHP was not ever used to evaluate the refresh planning. The paper demonstrates that it would be a very useful tool.
Using virtual worlds for collaborative business process modeling
Authors: Brown Ross , Recker Jan , West Stephen
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Process modeling is a complex organizational task that requires many iterations and communication between the business analysts and the domain specialists. The challenge of process modeling is exacerbated, when the process of modeling has to be performed in a cross‐organizational, distributed environment. This paper aims to suggest a three‐dimensional (3D) environment for collaborative process modeling, using virtual world technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper suggests a new collaborative process modeling approach based on virtual world technology. It describes the design of an innovative prototype collaborative process modeling approach, implemented as a 3D Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN) modeling environment in Second Life. We use a case study to evaluate the suggested approach.

Findings

Based on a case study application, the paper shows that our approach increases user empowerment and adds significantly to the collaboration and consensual development of process models even when the relevant stakeholders are geographically dispersed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents design work and a case study. More research is needed to more thoroughly evaluate the presented approach in a variety of real‐life process modeling settings.

Practical implications

The research outcomes as design artifacts are directly available and applicable by business process management professionals and can be used by business, system and process analysts in real‐world practice.

Originality/value

This research is the first reported attempt to develop a process modeling approach on the basis of virtual world technology. It describes a novel and innovative 3D BPMN modeling environment in Second Life.
Leading beyond borders: insights and case studies from IBM's Global Chief Human Resource Officer study
Authors: Britt Andi , Kreyer Nina
Published: June 2011

Purpose

As organizations operate in an increasingly borderless world where work is performed across various cultures, geographies and time zones, modern strategies and approaches for effective, global leadership are a necessity. The aim of this paper is to explore how leaders can successfully address the challenges of global leadership in order to improve business performance and take advantage of new business opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

IBM's recently published Global Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) study – to which more than 700 HR executives and workforce strategists across 61 countries contributed – reveals that organizations continue to struggle to resolve a number of critical leadership challenges.

Findings

The authors explore the key levers that leaders need to apply in order to maximize workforce performance and capitalize on collective intelligence. Analysis of our study shows that many organizations will need to work very differently from how they operate today, engaging much more seamlessly across a wide range of geographic, functional, and generational boundaries.

Originality/value

The following article summarizes the findings from IBM's recent CHRO study, highlights its implications for modern leadership and presents selected case studies to illustrate how the theory can be put into practice.
The “zero‐CO” domestic fireplace: a catalytic solution to reduce pollutants
Authors: Ozil F. , Tschamber V. , Haas F. , Trouvé G.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Because domestic heating appliances have the advantage of reducing emissions of greenhouse gas, their use is greatly increased and is largely recommended by European governments. However, some recent studies revealed that residential wood stoves and inserts are the source of many chemicals in the form of gases (CO2, CO, SO2, NOx), volatile organic compounds (alkane, alkenes, benzene, etc. …) and tars (mainly constituting poly‐aromatic hydrocarbons). The most important of them in terms of the emission factor and impact on environment and human health are carbon monoxide and fine particles. The aim of this study is to test the activity of a Pd‐based catalyst on the reduction of gas and particles during wood combustion in a domestic fireplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A catalytic system, placed at the exit of the fireplace, was developed to reduce pollutants. Pollutant characterization of a domestic fireplace from FONDIS SA, according to two paces of functioning (nominal and low‐charge), was performed with and without the presence of the catalyst. Fine and ultrafine particle distributions were characterized using an Electrical Low Pressure Impactor.

Findings

The presence of a catalyst drastically decreases the emission factors of CO. Though performing efficiently with respect to the total suspended particles emission factor, it does not significantly affect the emission factors of aerosols. Nevertheless, in the presence of the catalyst, air supply conditions slightly modify size distributions of PM0.1 to PM10.

Practical implications

A purification assembly, having catalysts for gases and combustion fumes from solid fuel heating apparatus, was patented and fireplaces are now commercially available from FONDIS SA.

Originality/value

This work was an adaptation of the catalytic system present in the automotive Diesel exhaust engines. It was not necessary to consult previous laboratory experiments in order to perform its activity because it was directly tested at the duct fireplace.
Investigating the determinants of recycling behaviour in Malta
Authors: Bezzina Frank H. , Dimech Stephen
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore different factors of recycling behaviour with evidence from Malta in order to determine which of these factors emerge as significant predictors of the recycling participation of Maltese residents.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, the recycling behaviour of 400 Maltese residents selected at random from the e‐Electoral Register for general elections and local councils was investigated. A behavioural framework was adopted and the questionnaire used incorporates elements from the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), the Model of Altruistic Behaviour (MAB) as well as other determinants of recycling behaviour (e.g. inconveniences and demographic variables). The participants had the option of answering the questionnaire by telephone or via an online survey which was e‐mailed directly to the participants.

Findings

The study shows that nine factors – “personal recycling attitudes, norms and skills”, “satisfaction with service provided”, “inconveniences”, “awareness of consequences”, “knowledge of issues”, “social recycling attitudes and norms”, “motivating factors”, “intentions to act” and “scheme preference” – account for 68.5 per cent of the variability in the recycling behaviour of Maltese residents. Additionally, the first three factors highlighted above emerged as significant predictors of recycling participation and together accounted for 48.5 per cent of the variability in recycling participation. In the light of the findings, the issue of adopting a corporate communications programme emerges as a possible strategy aimed at putting mandatory EU recycling targets for Malta back on track.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence from Malta that the incorporation of elements from the Theory of Planned Behaviour, the Model of Altruistic Behaviour as well as other additional variables (e.g. situational factors and demographic factors) makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the recycling behaviour and the recycling participation of Maltese residents.
Motives, difficulties and benefits in implementing the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System
Authors: Psomas Evangelos L. , Fotopoulos Christos V. , Kafetzopoulos Dimitrios P.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the motives for implementing the ISO 14001 standard, the difficulties in meeting the standard's requirements and the benefits derived, and to determine the most significant latent constructs (unobserved variables) of these.

Design/methodology/approach

A research project was carried out in 53 ISO 14001‐certified Greek companies. Exploratory Factor Analyses were applied in order to refine the latent constructs of the ISO 14001 motives, difficulties and benefits.

Findings

Obtaining a competitive advantage, the social requirement and the environmentally‐friendly policy were the extracted latent constructs of the ISO 14001 motives. The decision of the companies to be ISO 14001‐certified was mostly influenced by internal motives. The ISO 14001 requirements and the determination of environmental performance issues were the extracted latent constructs of the difficulties faced during the implementation of the standard. However, according to the findings, the level of these difficulties was not high. The improvement of a company's position in the market, the transition from conventional to sustainable practices, the improved relationship with society due to better environmental performance and the improvement of waste processing were the extracted latent constructs of the benefits derived. Even though they were not extremely high, the internal were more significant than the external benefits.

Research limitations/implications

The subjective character of the data collected, the small size of the sample of the participating companies and their diversity with respect to their sector and size, are the main limitations of the present study. Future studies can use these limitations as suggestions for further research.

Practical implications

The latent constructs extracted through the analysis of the ISO 14001 motives, difficulties and benefits may encourage non‐certified companies to implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) according to ISO 14001. The ISO 14001 certified companies can focus on specific factors in order to strengthen their motivation, avoid difficulties, maximise benefits and consequently to improve their environmental management and performance.

Originality/value

This paper describes the underlying structure of the ISO 14001 motives, difficulties and benefits and determines the respective latent constructs.