bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Project management in the library
Authors: Massis Bruce E.
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The project management methodology can provide a library with a tool it can use to deliver a project using an effective and efficient technique so that the blueprint for success can be developed, followed and realized using a dependable and trusted technique. The purpose of this column is to discuss the project management methodology and its relevance in the current economic climate wherein libraries must approach every project with planning, caution, risk assessment, change management techniques and an overall plan to ensure, at least as much as possible, a project's success.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a literature review and commentary on this topic that is now being considered by colleagues.

Findings

While in many instances, libraries have been cautious in pursuing project management as a planning and workflow tool, it is becoming increasingly evident that a proven methodology such as this could greatly benefit projects that are usually expected to adhere to the demands of a severe time, cost‐sensitive and resource‐limited environment.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is in suggesting that this method or project management can greatly benefit the library in its efforts at planning and executing the well‐organized project.
The LILAC conference 2010
Authors: Glass Bob
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a flavour of the content of the LILAC conference held in the Republic of Ireland in March 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an outline of the content, structure, issues and keynote speakers of the LILAC conference. The growing trend toward instant communication was as present at this conference with both Twitter and the Facebook LILAC sites available to attendees.

Findings

The conference held a series of themed parallel sessions divided into five tracks – Making Connections, Developing the IL Practitioner, IL and Research, Innovative Practice and Measuring Impact.

Originality/value

The conference provided an insight into emerging trends and developing resources for information literacy.
Agency theory and quality fade in buyer‐supplier relationships
Authors: Whipple Judith M. , Roh Joseph
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose using agency theory for assessing the likelihood of quality fade in buyer‐supplier relationships and prescribing contractual mechanisms for reducing quality fade. In this paper, quality fade, an element of supply chain vulnerability, is defined as the unforeseen deterioration of agreed to or expected quality levels with respect to product and/or service requirements. The use of outcome‐based, behavior‐based, or mix contracts can be used to reduce the likelihood of quality fade and illustrate preferred scenarios for buyer and suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a conceptual model for using agency theory to explain and address a type of supply chain vulnerability called quality fade. A 2×2 matrix is proposed that contrasts outcome measurability with outcome uncertainty to illustrate buyer and supplier vulnerability and to suggest contractual mechanisms that can be used to mitigate vulnerability for both parties.

Findings

A typology of governance mechanisms is presented and described with the use of a manufacturer third‐party logistics provider example to illustrate the theoretical framework. Four different scenarios are discussed and described. Contractual mechanisms are provided to mitigate vulnerabilities and reduce quality fade.

Originality/value

Quality fade is a term that has not been described extensively in academic literature but is a term that is relevant in the broader discussion of supply chain vulnerability. Given that quality fade is a behavioral, as opposed to process oriented, approach, it requires a theoretical framework rooted in behavioral considerations. Agency theory is an appropriate framework for studying governance options.
An inventory of theory in logistics and SCM research
Authors: Clifford Defee C. , Williams Brent , Randall Wesley S. , Thomas Rodney
Published: November 2010

Purpose

Theory is needed for a discipline to mature. This research aims to provide a summary analysis of the theories being used in contemporary logistics and supply chain management (SCM) studies.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review of articles appearing in five top tier logistics and SCM journals is conducted in order to identify how often theory is used and to classify the specific theories used. An analysis of the theoretical categories is presented to explain the type and frequency of theory usage.

Findings

Over 180 specific theories were found within the sampled articles. Theories grouped under the competitive and microeconomics categories made up over 40 per cent of the theoretical incidences. This does not imply all articles utilize theory. The research found that theory was explicitly used in approximately 53 per cent of the sampled articles.

Practical implications

Two implications are central. First, in the minds of editors, reviewers and authors is approximately 53 per cent theory use enough? Literature suggests there continues to be a need for theory‐based research in the discipline. A first step may be to increase our theory use, and to clearly describe the theory being used. Second, the vast majority of theories used in recent logistics and SCM research originated in other disciplines. Growth in the discipline dictates the need for greater internal theory development.

Originality/value

Despite multiple calls for the use of theory in logistics and SCM, little formal research has been produced examining the actual theories being used. This research provides an in‐depth review and analysis of the use of theory in logistics and SCM research during the period 2004‐2009.
30 years of retail change: where (and how) do you shop?
Authors: Elms Jonathan , Canning Catherine , de Kervenoael Ronan , Whysall Paul , Hallsworth Alan
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent of retail change in the UK grocery sector over the last 30 years.

Design/methodology/approach

In 1980, a press article by Richard Milner and Patience Wheatcroft attempted to anticipate retail change by 1984. Taking that as a template, the paper examines how retail did, in fact, change over a much longer timescale: with some unanticipated innovations in place even by 1984. Reference is made to academic research on grocery retailing in progress at the time and which has recently been revisited.

Findings

Although Milner and Wheatcroft tackled the modest task of looking ahead just four years, the content of their article is intriguingly reflective of the retail structure and systems of the UK at the time. Whilst some innovations were not anticipated, the broad themes of superstore power and market regulation still command attention 30 years on.

Originality/value

Through reconsidering 30 years of retail change, the paper highlights that with time how do you shop has come to pose at least as interesting a question as where do you shop.
Location decision making in retail firms: evolution and challenge
Authors: Reynolds Jonathan , Wood Steve
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The paper has three objectives: first, to reflect on the contribution of this journal to the study of retail location assessment and decision making; second, to use the results of a questionnaire survey of retailers to assess the employment of location assessment techniques a decade since a similar survey conducted by Hernández and Bennison; third, in the light of these results, to conclude what likely challenges the location planning profession will face over the next decade.

Design/methodology/approach

Employs an online questionnaire survey of retailers across a range of sizes and sub‐sectors.

Findings

Specialist location planning teams within retailers are found to be small with established forecasting processes firmly established for new or relocated stores – indicative of less activity focused on the management of the existing portfolio or the identification of outlets within the network for rationalisation. The vast majority of site assessment techniques increased in use over the decade, reflecting a greater reliance on data and analysis to inform decision making alongside the traditional use of experience and intuition. Complementing highly technical evaluation techniques, the site visit is widely recognised as informing modelling and subsequent decision making.

Research limitations/implications

The survey sample is smaller and contains a greater proportion of larger businesses than that undertaken by Hernández and Bennison.

Originality/value

The paper underlines the changes in location planning sophistication a decade on from a landmark survey, suggests the implications of the observed changes and identifies likely developments in the profession.
Local shopping in the UK: towards a synthesis of business and place
Authors: Bennison David , Warnaby Gary , Pal John
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an examination of the current state of local shopping provision (LSP) in the UK, identifying and evaluating approaches to maintaining its vitality and viability.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a review and synthesis of secondary data and published work.

Findings

In recent years, LSP has been under much pressure as retail trade has become increasingly concentrated. The recent recession and structural changes in the convenience sector have added to the pressures of change, but government is now recognising its social and economic importance. The analysis shows that the vitality and viability of LSP are very variable within and between regions and conurbations. A wide range of responses to maintaining the vitality and viability of LSP is identified, and a schema is posited which seeks to integrate elements of business and place management as the best way forward, concluding that sensitivity to local conditions is paramount and that local partnerships and champions have a key role to play.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on secondary sources of data and extant literature only.

Originality/value

The paper provides an up‐to‐date evaluation of issues in an important area of retail policy and practice, attempting to distil best practice approaches which will be of value to all stakeholders.
From the retail brand to the retail‐er as a brand: themes and issues in retail branding research
Authors: Burt Steve , Davies Keri
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a review of the existing research themes in the area of retail branding, and note how these have developed as the conceptualisation of “branding” in retailing has itself evolved.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews existing research themes within retail branding. There is a vast body of academic literature on branding, or aspects of branding in retailing. The initial focus of academic work was upon the product perspective via studies of the store brand. This body of work is summarised under five broad themes – the characteristics of store brand prone consumers and the product attributes which attract consumers; the growth of and motivations for retail brand development; the role of changing channel relationships and behaviours on store brand development; intra‐category brand relationships; and the concept of copycat brands. From this initial, rather narrow, perspective research has evolved, taking on a wider view the brand in retailing which in turn has encompassed the store and the organisational perspectives.

Findings

The evolution of branding in retailing from studies of store brands to the exploration of the retail‐er as a brand has been matched with a widening of the conceptualisation of the brand in retail research: from the product as a brand to the store as a brand and most recently to the organisation as a brand. This has implications for future research in terms of the themes under investigation, research design, and the research methodologies employed.

Originality/value

The paper summarises the themes in existing retail branding research, notes the evolution of thought in retail brand research and suggests areas for future research.
Technology: advancing retail buyer performance in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Fiorito Susan S. , Gable Myron , Conseur Amanda
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain how buyers can more effectively and efficiently utilize technologies to improve their performance and to inform top executives in retail firms how these technologies can be used to improve the overall performance of the retail store.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a descriptive approach, the paper identifies current technologies that are being used and shows how technology can be used by retail buyers.

Findings

Technologies developed over the past 20 years have changed the way buyers execute their responsibilities with advancements in various technologies; faster transmission of data results in the ability of buyers to immediately react to inventory and pricing issues. However, given that technology investments can exceed millions of dollars, and that many retailers' margins and inventory productivity have been eroding over the last ten years, the stakes for information technology decisions have grown exponentially, so care must be taken in making these decisions.

Practical implications

This subject matter is most important for retail practitioners because it identifies areas where the performance of buyers can be improved. It is also valuable to college professors who teach retailing and buying and to their students because it provides current subject matter that should be incorporated into classes.

Originality/value

This paper identified the most current technologies being used by buyers in a variety of stores to improve their performance. In addition, this paper identified the future trends in technology adopted by innovative retailers.
International retail research: focus, methodology and conceptual development
Authors: Alexander Nicholas , Doherty Anne Marie
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the development of research in international retailing over the last 20 years and propose a future research agenda within a conceptual framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the development of the retail internationalisation literature.

Findings

Explains how different research topics have emerged over the years and how researchers have responded methodologically to the different research challenges encountered.

Research limitations/implications

The paper emphasises the importance of journals such as the International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management in the development of the international retailing research domain and discusses the challenge researchers currently have in developing the subject area.

Practical implications

Explores current understanding of the internationalisation process and through the consideration of different activities and processes within the international retail firm proposes a future research agenda.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the achievements of researchers in the area of international retailing over the last 20 years and, within a conceptual framework, explores those lacunae in the knowledge base that require further research.
Internet retailing: the past, the present and the future
Authors: Doherty Neil F. , Ellis‐Chadwick Fiona
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The primary aim of this paper is to critically review the literature that explicitly addresses the adoption, application and impact of internet technologies, by retailers, for the promotion and sale of merchanidise. In particular, this paper seeks to present a holistic and critical review of the early predictions, with regard to the uptake and impact of internet retailing; critically reappraise these claims in light of current trends in internet retailing; and explore where e‐tailing may be heading in the coming years.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts an extensive and critical review of the literature, with regard to the adoption, uptake and impact of internet retailing, as published in the academic literature over the past 20 years.

Findings

In hindsight, it can be seen that many of the original predictions, made at the dawn of the internet era, have not become a reality: retailers are not cannibalising their own custom, virtual merchants are not dominating the market‐place, and the high street has not, as yet, been put out of business. By contrast, other predications have come to pass: electronic intermediaries are playing an increasingly important role, “one‐to‐one” marketing has become a reality, prices are more competitive, and perhaps most importantly the consumer has become more powerful.

Research limitations/implications

Providing a brief review of the past, present and future of online retailing is an extremely ambitious undertaking, especially given the vast amount of literature that has been published in this area. In attempting to provide an overall impression of the broad themes, and most important findings, to emerge from this important body of literature, it is inevitable that many important pieces of work will have been either missed or underplayed. Consequently, there is a need for follow‐up studies that aim to provide deeper and richer reviews of more narrowly defined elements of this vast landscape.

Originality/value

This study presents one of the first and most thorough reappraisals of the initial literature with regard to the likely development, implications, and impact of internet retailing. Moreover, the paper seeks to break new ground by attempting to use the current literature to help predict future directions and trends for online shopping.
Service quality and its relation to satisfaction and loyalty in logistics outsourcing relationships
Authors: Juga Jari , Juntunen Jouni , Grant David B.
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how perceived service quality influences both a shipper's satisfaction and subsequent loyalty in third‐party logistics outsourcing relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical service dimensions are identified and their impact on satisfaction and loyalty are developed into a theoretical model, which in turn is examined empirically using structural equation modelling from a survey of 235 industrial companies in Finland.

Findings

The results support the satisfaction‐loyalty model in a logistics outsourcing context confirming that service perceptions influence loyalty through a shipper's overall satisfaction with the service provider.

Research limitation/implications

The empirical study is limited to Finland and data were collected before the financial crisis of 2008‐2009 which affected the economy and this industrial sector. The theoretical constructs and model also need to be validated and tested further across a wider empirical context.

Practical implications

Logistics service providers recognise the importance of service quality in outsourcing relationships. However, while the continuity of the current relationship is supported by good service quality, the efforts to extend the scope of the outsourcing arrangement need to be examined on a different basis.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the first to investigate and confirm the service‐satisfaction‐loyalty paradigm in a logistics outsourcing context.
Value co‐creation as a determinant of success in public transport services
Authors: Gebauer Heiko , Johnson Mikael , Enquist Bo
Published: November 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to utilise Prahalad's five activities of co‐creation (customer engagement, self‐service, customer involvement, problem‐solving, and co‐design) to explore how value co‐creation occurs in the context of a public‐transport service provider.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a single qualitative case study of the Swiss federal railway operator (SBB).

Findings

The findings enrich understanding of value co‐creation by showing that the case firm is not merely a value facilitator, but has increasingly become a value co‐creator through the five co‐creation activities noted above. Organisations should take a comprehensive view of value co‐creation if they are to exploit its full strategic potential.

Research limitations/implications

The study is a single case study with a focus on the supplier perspective.

Practical implications

Public‐transport operators should facilitate the active participation of customers in designing and implementing their processes and systems. Rather than relying on knowledge about the customers, customer‐relationship management should be based on knowledge of the customers (that is, the knowledge that customers possess).

Originality/value

The paper provides a comprehensive framework to help organisations manage the value co‐creation process. The study shows that a public‐transport service provider is not restricted to making value propositions, but can actively influence and assist customers in their fulfilment of value‐co‐creation.
The diminished effect of psychological empowerment on the self‐empowered
Authors: Chi Keung Chan Thomas , Yong Ngee Ng Keith , Casimir Gian
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether the relationship between psychological empowerment and performance on service quality is moderated by the need for achievement.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 94 full‐time property managers in Hong Kong using a self‐administered survey.

Findings

The findings indicate that both empowerment and need for achievement are correlated positively to service quality and that the relationship between empowerment and service quality is moderated by need for achievement such that the strength of the positive relationship between empowerment and service quality decreases as need for achievement increases.

Research limitations/implications

All of the data are self‐reported, from a single source, and obtained from the same method (i.e. a five‐point Likert scale), thereby bringing into question the effect of common method bias. However, a single‐component test shows that the majority of the covariance between the constructs is not due to common method variance.

Practical implications

Organizations engaged in the provision of services need to emphasize not only empowering employees but also need to recruit employees who are high in need for achievement. The findings indicate that property managers with higher levels of need for achievement require less empowerment from management to provide quality service possibly because they are self‐empowered to strive for excellence when performing their duties.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by being the first not only to examine whether the need for achievement moderates the relationship between empowerment and service quality but also the first to examine service quality in the context of the property management industry in Hong Kong.
The role of strategic context, operational requirements, and work design in in‐house call centres in the financial sector
Authors: Strandberg Christer , Dalin Rolf
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and describe associations between the strategic (market/industry) context, the operational requirements, and the work design of in‐house, inbound call centres in the financial sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross‐sectional study uses data from a survey conducted between February 2002 and September 2005 as part of the Global Call Centre Industry Project, which included call centres from 17 countries. The present analysis is based on a sub‐sample of 375 call centres from that survey.

Findings

Managers of in‐house, inbound call centres in the financial‐services sector claim that they adopt a relationship‐oriented approach to the work of their call centres; however, the present study demonstrates that they fail to design their employees' work appropriately to meet this requirement. This is especially the case for call centres in the insurance sector.

Research limitations/implications

The original data collection was undertaken in a much broader context than this delineated study. There is a need to develop the concepts of relationship building and work design in the context of call centres. There is also a need to explore the perspective of employees with regard to operational requirements and work design and the customer's perception of service quality.

Practical implications

If managers of call centres in the financial‐services sector really wish to encourage relationship building between employees and customers, they need to reconsider the current work design of their call centres.

Originality/value

The paper enhances knowledge of how operational requirements are linked to work design in call centres.
The impact of accounting of securities valuation on stock returns: the case of Greece
Authors: Tzovas Christos , Chalevas Constantinos , Ballas Apostolos A.
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the market reaction to the accounting treatment of the marking‐to‐market of equity investments of Greek firms during the period 2002‐2004.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data for firms listed in the ASE, a treatment effects model of returns on control variables, the valuation adjustment and a dummy for the accounting treatment which is modeled as conditional to profitability, size and leverage.

Findings

It is found that firms chose to take valuation losses through equity but the market considered this treatment as a negative signal. The paper concludes that although market behavior is consistent with the efficient markets hypothesis, managerial behavior is more consistent with the mechanistic hypothesis.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the factors that influence the accounting policy decisions of firms listed in the Athens Stock Exchange. In addition, this study contributes to evaluating the IASB's decision to give issuers of reclassify financial the ability to reclassify them.
Accounting relevance and speculative intensity: empirical evidence from Greece
Authors: Dimitropoulos Panagiotis E. , Asteriou Dimitrios
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The aim of this paper is twofold: first, it aims to examine the relevance of earnings and book values on stock prices, and second, to test for the effect of speculative intensity on the relevance of accounting information between 1995 and 2004.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from a sample of 101 non‐financial firms listed at the Athens Stock Exchange over the period 1996‐2004 and were analyzed using OLS regression models.

Findings

Results indicated that book values are not relevant when they are considered solely, but both earnings and book values are more relevant when they are simultaneously included in the model. Finally, taking into consideration the effect of speculative intensity, we observed that it has a positive and significant effect on stock prices yet the value relevance of earnings and book values has not changed even after controlling for speculation.

Practical implications

The findings can be used by analysts and capital market researchers since both must bear in mind the fact that the quality of the capital market and the quality of the stock prices are not constant over time. Consequently, the classical valuation models are misspecified and could yield significant bias if speculative intensity is not taken under consideration.

Originality/value

The findings provide a further insight on the issue of accounting relevance within the context of an emerging capital market like Greece. According to our knowledge this is the first study which concerns speculation as an important factor of accounting value relevance in an European country.
Comparison of two methods for measuring compliance with IFRS mandatory disclosure requirements
Authors: Tsalavoutas Ioannis , Evans Lisa , Smith Mike
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to highlight the differences, and implications of any differences, between two approaches to measuring compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) mandatory disclosure requirements: the commonly used “dichotomous” approach; and the alternative, but rarely used, partial compliance unweighted approach. The former gives equal weight to the individual items required to be disclosed by all standards. The latter assumes that each standard is of equal importance and consequently gives equal weight to each standard.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs both methods on a sample of companies. We then compare the results deriving from the application of the two methods and statistically test their differences.

Findings

It is found that the two methods produce significantly different overall and relative (i.e. ranking order) compliance scores.

Practical implications

This paper should alert researchers to the implications of using either method. Additionally, it highlights the need for academics and/or practitioners to be cautious when interpreting the findings of prior studies on compliance with IFRS mandatory disclosure requirements. Since the two methods produce significantly different compliance scores, findings regarding the variables associated with compliance may differ, depending on the disclosure index method followed. The paper suggests that simultaneous application of both methods would result in more robust findings in future research.

Originality/value

This is the first study to compare the results produced by applying both methods and statistically test their differences. The research methods explored are in particular relevant for policy‐oriented, international accounting research.
Establishing additionality: fraud vulnerabilities in the clean development mechanism
Authors: Drew Jacqueline M. , Drew Michael E.
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the clean development mechanism (CDM) which creates carbon credits from emission abatement projects in developing economies. The paper aims to examine the operation of the CDM with specific reference to fraud vulnerabilities regarding the additionality of a project. An examination of the process of establishment, certification and verification of additionality (confirmation that emissions post‐implementation of the CDM project are lower than those that would have occurred under the most plausible alternative scenario) is used to highlight the need for particular vigilance in respect to sustaining and improving the integrity of future market‐based mechanisms post‐Kyoto.

Design/methodology/approach

The study takes a case study approach, examining the CDM project cycle and associated key entities.

Findings

The study posits that the processes associated with establishing and verifying additionality of a project are potentially key areas of systemic weakness that must be addressed. This case study explores the design features of the CDM that may afford greater opportunities for fraudulent or deceptive practices.

Originality/value

The CDM takes a project‐by‐project approach to establishment, verification and certification of additionality. Whilst conceptually this design may be appropriate from an operational perspective, it potentially provides opportunities for fraudulent outcomes. The individualised approach is, by its very nature, highly resource‐intensive and inherently difficult to verify.
Should funds invest in socially responsible investments during downturns?
Authors: Copp Richard , Kremmer Michael L. , Roca Eduardo
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether socially responsible investment (SRI) is less sensitive to market downturns than conventional investments; the legal implications for fund managers and trustees; and possible legislative reforms to allow conventional funds more scope to invest in SRI.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the market model to estimate betas over the past 15 years for SRI funds and conventional investment funds during economic downturns, as distinct from during more “normal” (non‐recessionary) economic times.

Findings

The beta risk of SRI, both in Australia and internationally, increases more than that of conventional investment during economic downturns. Traditional fund managers and trustees in Australia are therefore likely to breach their fiduciary duties if they go long – or remain long – in SRI funds during economic downturns, unless relevant legislation is reformed.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology assumes that alpha and beta in the market model are constant. Second, it categorises the state of the market into “normal” economic conditions and downturns using dummy variables. More sophisticated techniques could be used in future research.

Practical implications

The current law would prevent conventional funds from investing in SRI. If SRI is viewed as socially desirable, useful legislative reforms could include explicitly overriding the common law to allow conventional funds to invest in SRI; introducing a 150 percent tax deduction or investment allowance for SRI; and allowing SRI sub‐funds to obtain deductible gift recipient status from the Australian Tax Office and other taxation authorities.

Originality/value

The accurate assessment of risk in SRIs is an area which, despite its serious legal implications, is yet to be subjected to rigorous empirical investigation.
Why should sustainable finance be given priority?
Authors: Wilson Clevo
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the relatively new concept of sustainable finance, although very apt and timely, needs to address many major issues for it to be meaningful and if it is to achieve its desired objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The study identifies some of the major issues that need to be clarified and addressed including: defining the kind of sustainability that is envisaged; examining issues relating to the use of high‐discount rates and its compatibility with the goals of sustainability; the case of excessive pollution due to adverse selection, moral hazard and lobbying; and specialisation and path dependent systems that are detrimental to future production.

Findings

The paper demonstrates why the concept of sustainable finance is timely and why it is necessary to take into account the potential major issues that need to be considered and adequately addressed.

Research limitations/implications

The challenges that lie ahead are many, and the sooner they are addressed, the more credible and potent sustainable finance will be.

Practical implications

This paper discusses the major issues and examples of pollution and biodiversity degradation that need to be considered with sustainable finance. The paper also shows why economic growth without considering pollution impacts and path dependent systems is detrimental to future production, which violates the concept of sustainable finance.

Originality/value

Sustainable finance is a relatively new concept that is fast becoming important as financial investments are increasingly required to prove sustainability credentials. However, despite its increasing popularity many major issues need to be dealt with if this concept is to be truly meaningful and potent in achieving its objectives.
On the responsible investment disclosure practices of the world's largest pension funds
Authors: Bianchi Robert J. , Drew Michael E. , Walk Adam N.
Published: November 2010

Purpose

This study seeks to measure the level of responsible investment (RI) disclosure of the world's largest pension funds.

Design/methodology/approach

The public disclosure of environmental, social and governance factors by the world's largest pension funds reflect their genuine commitment to this new investment paradigm. The UNPRI criterion is employed to measure the level of public disclosure. One hour was allocated to every asset owner's web site to search and collect public information.

Findings

Overall, the level of public disclosure of RI activities is not prolific. The study is negatively influenced by North American pension funds who dominate this sample. Public disclosure practices are positive for European funds. The size of funds under management positively influences the public disclosure and reflects their leadership role in the industry.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include: the largest pension funds are dominated by North American funds and reflect the impact of fund size. The results are from the largest pension funds and may not be representative of the entire industry; the positive findings from European funds reflect a material subset of the global asset owners; and, we do not engage directly with the funds in question. Measurements are sourced from public disclosure.

Originality/value

The lack of public disclosure of RI by North American funds suggests that these institutions do not believe that it is important to investors. It suggests that these asset owners have not yet been exposed to the same influences as European funds. Given that North American funds together own substantial interests in listed corporations, they are much more important to influence than corporations.
Towards a high‐performance bioeconomy
Authors: Ahn Mark J. , Meeks Michael , Bednarek Rebecca , Ross Christine , Dalziel Sophie
Published: November 2010

Purpose

Building a bioeconomy requires efficient technology transfer and global linkages to exploit finite intellectual property exclusivity periods. The purpose of this paper, using a resource‐based view lens, is to assess the priorities, capabilities, and competitiveness of the emerging New Zealand (NZ) bioeconomy.

Design/methodology/approach

A triangulated design was used that involved four focus groups, 27 interviews, five case studies, and survey of 176 NZ biotechnology industry participants from a broad range of backgrounds such as scientists, managers, and investors.

Findings

Two high‐priority capabilities were identified as being critical to fostering a competitive bioeconomy – access to talent and access to funding. Participants also identified the critical role of government in building and coordinating infrastructure, enabling critical capabilities, and accelerating bi‐directional technology and capital flows.

Originality/value

Most biotechnology research and data has focused on the USA and European Union. This is one of the first studies of NZ biotechnology participants, and insights gained within this context are potentially applicable for increasing our understanding of building biotechnology industries outside established clusters.
Central banking in transition economies: Estonia and Belarus
Authors: Lassiter Jessica , Bisping Timothy O. , Horton Joseph
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the difference in the development of the central bank in two states in transition from communism to capitalism and from being parts of the Soviet Union to being independent states.

Design/methodology/approach

Data and theoretical analysis were gathered from various sources in order to evaluate the approach to central banking taken by these two countries.

Findings

Substantial variations were found in the resulting monetary policies and rates of inflation which demonstrate the differences in the institutions developed and illustrate the importance of independence for the central bank.

Originality/value

The contrasting experience of Belarus and Estonia, both of which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, provide examples of success and failure in this endeavor, thus providing valuable insight to those involved with transitioning economies.
Affirming diversity in an online course
Authors: Baltes Beate
Published: November 2010

Purpose

Numerous attempts have been made to link a particular learning style to either a particular culture, gender, or even a generation. In a typically heterogeneous online class, it is impossible to address every participant's culture or the degree of assimilation to a particular culture. Consequently, the aim of this paper is to recommend strategies on how to address numerous learning styles in a culturally sensitive classroom environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Currently, a literature review of publications in English has been concluded. An upcoming case study at an online university might corroborate the findings.

Findings

There are many variations of an instructor's cultural background interacting with the diverse cultures of students in an online university situated in a particular local culture. Consequently, it is prudent to offer a variety of learning opportunities. The more learning styles are accommodated, the higher the chances that learning occurs. Compared with a traditional face‐to‐face classroom where choices between learning options have to be made due to time constraints, the online classroom offers the opportunity to provide a variety of learning opportunities.

Practical implications

The paper presents a variety of learning opportunities that can be considered in the development of online courses. The suggestions are not bound to a particular generation, culture, or gender but are just plain good online teaching that applies to a heterogeneous – just as much as to a homogeneous – student population.

Originality/value

Online learning is spreading in numbers as well as globally. This paper hopes to avoid “colonization” of online learning but to support cultural affirmation within the online learning environment.
Factors that contribute towards improving learning effectiveness using a specific learning management system (LMS) at the Military Academy (MA)
Authors: Pretorius André
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that contribute towards learning effectiveness in e‐learning courses. A review of previous studies was carried out to determine those factors that are most applicable to a tertiary teaching environment and to propose a model to assess effectiveness in online courses. The virtual learning environment (VLE) was defined to establish the boundaries for measurement. Constructivism was explored as a teaching approach in tertiary online courses. This model provided the input for a demonstration of an online course measurement and feedback tool using Moodle. A current student group was used to demonstrate the tool's use and recommendations were made from the findings. Areas for improvement were discussed and recommendations made for future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study a literature analysis approach was followed to establish theoretical bases for the practical application of the theory. The objective of the study was to demonstrate a model to measure the effectiveness of an LMS in aiding learner success as the most important success indicator of an e‐learning system.

Findings

The demonstration of a survey tool in Moodle showed a possible method to determine preferences and measure the extent to which it was achieved in an online course. This study endeavoured to explore the factors that contribute towards improving learning effectiveness specifically in the e‐learning environment. A model was proposed with the teacher, learner and design dimensions in the constructivist approach.

Originality/value

This study sets out to answer the following questions: What is learning effectiveness and what factors influence learning effectiveness in e‐learning? What factors are significant in measuring e‐learning effectiveness at the Military Academy? And what general high‐level framework can be used to develop a measurement instrument for future positivistic studies?
Students' and faculty's perception of academic integrity in Hong Kong
Authors: Kwong Theresa , Ng Hing‐Man , Mark Kai‐Pan , Wong Eva
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare students' and faculty members' perceptions of academic integrity; their understanding of experiences pertaining to different aspects of academic misconduct (e.g. plagiarism); and to examine the underlying reasons behind academic integrity violations in a Hong Kong context.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods approach comprising quantitative and qualitative methodologies was used. First, a quantitative survey was conducted with students and faculty. Results from the survey were used to generate interview questions for an interview‐based qualitative study, which consisted of individual interviews for faculty members and focus group interview for students.

Findings

Results from both the survey and interviews showed that faculty members and students do not share a consensus on the definition of the seriousness of plagiarism and collusion. Students, in general, commit misconduct due to academic work, pressure for grades, and teachers' unclear instructions of academic integrity. Faculty members rarely report cases of misconduct to the university and handle the cases according to their own standard.

Originality/value

The topic of academic integrity has received increased attention in the past decade from college and university teachers and administrators around the world. Plagiarism is amongst the most widely studied acts of dishonesty in the area of academic behavior in universities world‐wide. Not many studies have investigated other acts of academic dishonesty and teachers' perception of academic integrity, especially in the Chinese context. The findings from this study provide useful insights for educators to implement academic honesty education programs, especially within the Chinese context, and especially in Hong Kong. The results also provide the foundations in developing an online academic integrity tutorial for the sampled institution.
Performance management in primary healthcare services: evidence from a field study
Authors: Silva Paulino , Ferreira Aldónio
Published: November 2010

Purpose

There is a growing interest in research focusing on performance management practices in the public sector, but research is still limited with regards to public primary healthcare services (PHSs), which play an important role in national healthcare systems. These organisations are frequently criticised for alleged poor performance management practices and misuse of resources, though such claims are not always substantiated. The purpose of this study is to examine performance management practices in public PHSs.

Design/methodology/approach

Three case studies of PHSs organisations were conducted resulting in interview material and archival data. Otley's performance management framework was used to examine the data.

Findings

It is found that the performance management systems of the studied PHSs were disjoint and lacked consistency and coherence. Lack of direction and motivational were key issues in PHSs. Furthermore, the observations indicate that vertical controls between PHSs and parent organisation were weak and accountability poor.

Research limitations/implications

Generalisability of findings and social desirability bias are the important limitations. A key research implication is that the conceptual framework adopted can be meaningfully used to generate insights into performance management issues in public sector healthcare organisations.

Practical implications

The study highlights the implications of the poor design and use of performance management systems and highlights areas for improvement in the organisations studied, and potentially across the sector.

Originality/value

This study is the first to draw upon Otley's performance management framework to examine performance management practices in PHSs and to demonstrate its usefulness in this context.