bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homework clubs in public libraries
Authors: Bevin Darren , Goulding Anne
Published: July 2002

Reports on a study investigating homework clubs in public libraries in the UK. Describes the national social and political background against which homework clubs have been established and reports the results of research, focusing on the establishment of homework clubs and the role of partnerships in their development, their aims and objectives, their focus on pupils with special needs, their promotion, staffing issues, users, resources and monitoring and evaluation. It is concluded that although challenges lie ahead, particularly in the area of resourcing, the future looks bright for homework clubs with a great deal of positive commitment to their development. Recommendations for future progress are given.
The new Croydon College library ‐ taking students into the twenty‐first century
Authors: Banks Carol
Published: July 2002

The opening of the new library in September 1998 provided Croydon College with a wonderful spacious all‐encompassing learning environment. The 3,000 square metre area contains library services, media production services, flexible learning and open access IT services, flexistudy and careers services. The project, initially described as Croydon’s Millennium Dome, was likened to a swimming pool because of the range of activity and opportunity with a shallow supportive activity end and a deep study end. The design and building of a new library is every librarian’s dream and usually every librarian’s nightmare. This article describes the flexible approach and teamwork that enabled this project to be completed to meet as many differing needs as possible.
Choose wisely: making the library’s money work for the library in the system procurement process
Authors: Grant Carl
Published: July 2002

Procurement processes for automated library systems need examination to determine if libraries are choosing the best methods for getting the best return on their investment. Understanding the costs involved and how typical decisions in procurement procedures add to the costs of systems will allow libraries to judge if the process better serves the library than using the money in other ways. Alternative processes including standardized request‐for‐proposals, contracts and understanding how to utilize lawyers and consultants are suggested in an attempt to show that procurement processes could achieve the same goals using different methods while allowing libraries to use their money to purchase other goods and/or services. The benefits of the implementation of such processes are also reviewed.
Commentary
Authors: Piercy Nigel
Published: July 2002

Government policies of accountability have led to the imposition of a type of quality measurement on British universities in the form of the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). The crudeness of the measures taken raises many questions of reliability and validity in the results. However, the high profile of those results and the implications for long‐term funding have led to obsession in many universities in performing well in the RAE, leading many academics to exhibit BORED symptoms (B***** Obsessive Research assessment Exercise Disorder). Because of their large size relative to other university departments, much of the pressure for improved scores is borne by business schools. This paper argues that, for a number of compelling reasons, for business schools to devote their efforts and resources to improving their RAE scores is likely to be damaging and counter‐productive.
The service performance gap: testing the redeveloped causal model
Authors: Chenet Pierre , Tynan Caroline , Money Arthur
Published: July 2002

Focuses on the service performance gap, which occurs when service is not performed according to the standards set. It attempts to define the antecedents of the gap. The research is set in the European airline industry with a theoretical framework based on service quality and the trust‐commitment theory of relationship marketing. With support from a literature review on exchange theory, equity theory, role theory and the trust‐commitment theory of relationship marketing, 18 hypotheses are advanced to develop and test an alternative to the original model by Parasuraman et al. Data were collected from two European airlines. A postal survey of 600 customer contact employees produced 193 respondents, an overall response rate of 32 per cent. The empirical investigation involved the use of structural equation modelling to estimate the proposed model. Exploratory factor analysis was used to assess the measurement instrument. The study offers some support to the work of Parasuraman et al., in another industrial context. It extends their findings by proposing an alternative model, which shows that the service performance gap is influenced both directly and indirectly by a significant number of critical factors including trust, commitment and co‐operation.
The organizational barriers to developing market orientation
Authors: Harris Lloyd C.
Published: July 2002

Although there has been much academic discussion of employee behaviours as potential barriers to market orientation, comparatively little attention has been focused on organizational barriers to market orientation. No single study has undertaken a holistic review of structural, strategic and systems impediments. The aim of this paper is to extend and synthesize existing research into the obstacles to market orientation by performing a holistic analysis of the organizational characteristics which influence the extent of market orientation in an organization. This paper begins with a brief review of existing research into the barriers to developing market orientation. After a discussion of research design and methodology, the summary findings of three in‐depth case studies are presented and eight hypotheses are forwarded. Thereafter, the results of a survey of organizational barriers to market orientation are presented and the findings are discussed. The paper concludes with a number of implications for both strategic marketing and management theory and practice.
A systematic procedure for targeting market research
Authors: Hamlin Robert P.
Published: July 2002

Discusses the targeting and reporting of commercial marketing research. The treatment of this critical stage of the research process is severely underrepresented in the academic marketing literature and in marketing research texts. Six prerequisites for effective targeting and reporting are identified. An extended model of the research process, incorporating the tasks that are essential for targeting and reporting is developed. The model and the six prerequisites are then used as the basis for the development of an operational procedure that allows a targeted set of research hypotheses to be developed from a decision problem, together with a formal record of the logical links between them. The importance of these written links for effective decision support, and the use of these links in the research reporting process, is also discussed.
The effects of technology standards on the structure of the global PC industry
Authors: Özsomer Aysegül , Tamer Cavusgil S.
Published: July 2002

Investigates the effects of technology standards on the changing nature of interdependence between competitors in a global industry. Drawing on the theory of organizational ecology, the effects of technology standards on the type of interplay among competitors are investigated as the underlying process affecting new firm entry. Empirical data from the global personal computer industry provide preliminary evidence that positive interdependence, or mutualism, characterizes the nature of competition before the establishment of a technology standard. Negative interdependence, or full competition, is found to prevail after a technology standard emerged. These findings suggest that the evolution of industries where compatibility and technological standards are critical can be analyzed in two different phases: the technological legitimation phase; and the market competition phase. A discussion of the underlying interdependencies in the two phases and their implications is also provided.
Managerial views of consumerism
Authors: Quazi Ali M.
Published: July 2002

Empirically examines the managerial perception of consumerism with reference to the very different macro environments of two countries – Australia and Bangladesh. Consumerism is defined as a social movement seeking to augment the rights and powers of buyers in relation to sellers. The attitudes of a sample of CEOs towards various aspects of consumerism are analyzed. The results of ANOVA indicate that there are statistically significant differences between the two groups of managers in terms of their commitment to consumerism on such issues as government regulation, advertising to children, the role of consumer organization and industry self‐regulation. Interestingly, Bangladeshi managers perceived most of the consumerism issues at a higher level than their Australian counterparts. There are interesting interpretations and implications of these findings for firms operating at the international level. These are explored here. Also explores the potential of future research in this area.
Barriers to customer‐orientation
Authors: Vaux Halliday Sue
Published: July 2002

Illustrates that a crucial dimension to any strategy to deliver customer‐orientation is that of the organisation’s cultural dynamics. If these are ignored, implementation may well fail. Within the marketing discipline this issue is, however, usually only touched upon. Reports on a grounded study of the implementation of a customer‐oriented policy at the customer interface. Nineteen pregnant women and 32 midwives were observed and questioned during a longitudinal study of perceptions of service quality in maternity care. A dynamic, explanatory model of organisational cultural issues is here used to analyse part of this empirical study. These findings indicate that organisational cultural issues form a barrier to creating a customer‐oriented capability within midwifery. For, whilst the customer or pregnant woman is looking for time spent on personal reassurance, by being informed and guided, midwives are finding meaning and value from myths symbolising a “golden past” in the face of an unwelcome present and uncertain future. Discussion and analysis combine to enable managers and academics to transfer the essence of these findings to their own areas of management practice and research. In conclusion, proposals are made both for management action and for future research.
Segmentation analysis for industrial markets
Authors: Dibb Sally , Wensley Robin
Published: July 2002

The underlying managerial rationale for segmenting markets is well established, with the marketing literature citing a range of benefits for businesses adopting a segmentation approach. Yet organisations frequently encounter difficulties in implementing segmentation principles. Even in the industrial marketing literature, where the most practical implementation guidance is offered, it is suggested that organisations tend to over‐emphasise the mechanics of segmentation, while failing to correctly implement the findings. This suggests that, if organisations are to benefit from applying segmentation principles, two fundamental questions should be addressed. The first concerns the basic conditions which must be met if implementation is to be effected. That is, it must be possible to map the dimensions developed on to usable customer characteristics. The second concerns the costs and benefits of the segmentation solution in relation to the proportion of variance in customer requirements which it explains. Addresses these questions in an industrial marketing context, using a literature review and quantitative analysis of data from the European car parts after market. The analysis shows that whilst traditional segmentation methods can be used to identify certain segments, these segments do not readily map on to implementable dimensions. Furthermore, it is suggested that even a relatively wide use of structural independent variables explains only a very small proportion of the individual variability in customer requirements. This suggests that much segmentation analysis may be poorly directed and also of rather limited practical value.
A new research agenda for business segmentation
Authors: Goller Susanne , Hogg Annik , Kalafatis Stavros P.
Published: July 2002

Since its conception over 60 years ago by Frederick in 1934, the concept of segmentation has gained increasing importance, in both the consumer and the business domains. Examination of research within the latter domain indicates that, although considerable amounts of research have been carried out, these efforts appear to focus on sub‐areas of segmentation such as the development of segmentation bases and models, at the expense of a more strategic view. This not only has resulted in a diffused understanding of the subject‐matter but also is posited to have slowed the progress of theory development and research in business segmentation. Presents a comprehensive conceptualisation of business segmentation in the form of an integrating framework of business segmentation, aimed at raising new research agendas which could lead to a better understanding of existing gaps between theory and implementation and better recommendations to practitioners and assisting further development of theory in business segmentation.
Marketing as a profession: on closing stakeholder gaps
Authors: Hunt Shelby D.
Published: July 2002

Historically, “closing the gap” or “bridging the divide” between marketing academe and marketing practice has been one of the most hotly debated issues in marketing. This article, based on the professional discipline view of marketing, maintains that the “gap” debate would be more informed by the identification of the multiple stakeholders of marketing academe, the explication of the duties and responsibilities of marketing academe to each group of stakeholders, and the evaluation of the extent to which marketing academe is fulfilling its duties and responsibilities.
Discovering diversity in marketing practice
Authors: Murray John A. , O’Driscoll Aidan , Torres Ann
Published: July 2002

Marketing practice varies among firms. However, the prescriptive literature emphasises a universal view of practice, a “one‐size‐fits‐all” view. This paper addresses the issue of explaining diversity in competitive space and over time. Diversity in competitive space reflects the existence of different routes to high performance. Diversity over time reflects some combination of change in the individual firm and change in a population of firms. In the former case, diversity is shaped by organisational change; in the latter by the disbandment and founding of firms in the population. Miles and Snow’s typology is taken as a main point of departure in the search for explanation, and ecological and evolutionary concepts are also drawn upon. The paper starts by examining the discussion of diversity in the literature of strategic management and organisation theory, and then finds evidence of an emerging interest in diversity in the domain of marketing. Based on a number of cross‐sectional and longitudinal case studies, it proceeds to explore diversity in company marketing practice. How such variety evolves at industry level is then addressed. Finally, a view of industries as business systems with complex adaptive mechanisms, enabling both evolutionary and revolutionary changes in marketing practice, is offered.
A bridge over troubled water?
Authors: Wensley Robin
Published: July 2002

Much of the discussion about the relationship between marketing academe and practice assumes that there is a wide, and indeed sometimes widening, gap between these two domains which is itself fraught with problems. In marketing, as in the wider field of management, this leads to prescriptions based on building more links and bridges and hence requirements for academe to move closer to practice. This paper argues that in a number of ways this is both a flawed diagnosis and also an ineffective prescription. A flawed diagnosis because the domains of academe and practice are themselves actually heterogeneous and overlapping. An ineffective prescription because institutional structures and incentives, including the existence of a substantial range of intermediaries, reflect legitimate and differing demands on each domain. In particular marketing academe needs to be at least as concerned about its links both with the wider academic community and intermediary organizations.
International Marketing Ethics: Problems Encountered by
Australian Firms
Authors: Armstrong Robert W. , Stening Bruce W. , Ryans John K. , Marks Larry , Mayo Michael
Published: July 2002

The international marketing ethics problems encountered by a
representative sample of Australian firms engaged in international
business are examined. The executive in charge of international
marketing in 38 firms (a 25 per cent response rate) provided information
on the types of ethical problems they have most commonly confronted.
Bribery was overwhelmingly the most common ethical problem. In addition,
a comparison is made between the Australian results and the results of a
similar study conducted in the United States. This comparison reveals
many striking similarities.
Successful Product Innovation in UK and US Firms
Authors: Johne Axel , Snelson Patricia
Published: July 2002

The managerial implications of a study of 40 leading US and UK
manufacturing firms (20 UK, 20 US) are examined in which senior and
middle‐level managers were interviewed face to face. In both countries,
common problems confront management which wants to grow its business
organically in preference to growing it by acquisition or by selling
other manufacturers′ new products. Successful firms distinguish
themselves by (1) balanced efforts between updating existing product
lines and developing completely new products, and (2) efficient and
speedy development work. It is argued that top management involvement
and middle management teamwork are the key to achieving these dual
objectives.
Perceptions of the Societal Marketing Concept
Authors: Abratt Russell , Sacks Diane
Published: July 2002

Whether societal marketing is regarded as a legitimate and
necessary aspect of marketing in the tobacco and liquor industries is
investigated. A review of previous research on societal marketing has
been undertaken. The views of both industries are discussed and some
conclusions are made with regard to their role in practising societal
marketing and, thus, their influence on consumer welfare.
The Evolution of Marketing Theory in the United States and
Europe
Authors: Howard Donald G. , Savins David M. , Howell William , Ryans John K.
Published: July 2002

The focus is an examination of the evolution of marketing theory
and the role the study of marketing theory plays in the marketing
education process. In addition, the question whether the status of
marketing theory differs among American marketing academicians and their
European colleagues is examined.
Analysing Marketing Profitability: Sales Are a Dangerous
Cost‐driver
Authors: Selnes Fred
Published: July 2002

Discusses the issues raised by general criticism of the traditional
accounting‐based analysis of profitability and in particular of data
quality and relevance, from the perspective of strategic marketing
decisions. The major validity problem of profitability analysis is
related to the assumption about sales as a cost‐driver for marketing
activities. Case studies from two companies illustrate the importance of
conducting the analysis based on relevant data. Suggests why and how
marketing costs should be allocated to both products and customers.
On Improving the Effectiveness of Test Marketing Decisions
Authors: Segal Madhav N. , Johar J.S.
Published: July 2002

While simulation and controlled pretest‐marketing approaches are
increasingly used, the traditional test marketing is still the most
widely used approach for product and marketing programme testing. For
several decades now, the most popular research and professional approach
to test market selection has involved the search for an
“average” America for test marketing. Discusses the problems
associated with this approach and argues that the US is very diverse
regionally and, consequently, “middletowns” do not exist.
Recommends a multivariate approach for city segmentation to develop
homogeneous sets of cities from which test markets may be selected for
control and testing purposes. The study also discusses the empirical
findings and managerial implications along with ways to validate the
recommended approach.
Marketing Research Activity and Company Performance:
Evidence from Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Hart Susan , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: July 2002

While a number of research studies have examined the factors
determining the extent of use of marketing research information by
managers, there is only scant empirical evidence on the link between
marketing research activity and company performance. Aims to examine the
nature of marketing research undertaken by manufacturing firms in a
variety of industrial contexts and to explore its impact on competitive
success. According to the results, and contrary to prior research, no
direct link can be detected between performance and (1) whether
marketing research is conducted/commissioned, (2) what
information is collected, or (3) how it is obtained. Discusses
the findings in the light of previous evidence and theoretical
speculation concerning the role of marketing research as a determinant
of company success, and makes a number of suggestions for future
research.
Public Relations: A Rationale for Its Development and Usage
within UK Fast moving Consumer Goods Firms:
Authors: Kitchen Philip J.
Published: July 2002

Considers the development of public relations in UK fast‐moving
consumer goods (FMCG) firms. Argues that public relations is making some
inroads into the traditional marketing promotional mix by acting either
in a complementary way or in place of traditional advertising. Also
considers the diversification of public relations activities at the
corporate level; and the trend towards interaction and integration of
the corporate and marketing public relations functions. Through in‐depth
interviews with ten leading, but unnamed, UK FMCG firms, argues that
public relations has been developing in emphasis and expenditure within
such firms over the past decade. Undertakes an approach to describing a
rationale for the growth of public relations.
Decision Making and Habit in Shopping Times
Authors: East Robert , Lomax Wendy , Willson Gill , Harris Patricia
Published: July 2002

Reports on the results from a consumer survey of shopping trips to
supermarkets in England and Wales. Most people exhibit habits about when
they do their main trip to the supermarket: 61 per cent have a usual day
and 67 per cent a usual time of day. Most shoppers state that they could
shop at other times but give reasons for their actual times that reflect
situational pressures such as the pattern of work and nearness to the
weekend. Many people state that they deliberately avoid busy shopping
times and the survey showed that a small number of these people do so.
However, there was no significant tendency for those who dislike
checkout delay to shop at quieter times than for those who are tolerant
of this delay. Store operators cannot change the main situational
factors that control the time of use of stores and this limits their
ability to influence when people shop. Nevertheless, the survey
indicated that some increase in the use of off‐peak times could be
achieved by permanent in‐store changes and better promotion of the
off‐peak times.
The Marketing Strategies of British and German Companies
Authors: Shaw Vivienne
Published: July 2002

Compares empirically the marketing strategies and organizational characteristics of 40 British and German companies operating in the machine tool industry. Shows that German manufacturers have a clear objective to develop a long‐term business focusing on quality and reliability as a means of satisfying customer needs. Meanwhile, finds the British companies adopt a more defensive approach to their marketing strategies with their main focus on short‐term profit maximization. While the German companies have developed marketing mixes broadly consistent with their strategy, the British manufacturers have a poor understanding of customer needs leading to a mismatch between strategy and marketing‐mix decisions. The German subsidiaries, although they share their parent′s focus on quality, are seen to be less clear about their long‐term future so that they show a closer resemblance to their British competitors in adopting more defensive strategies.
Computer applications – a new road to qualitative data
analysis?
Authors: Dembkowski Sabine , Hanmer‐Lloyd Stuart
Published: July 2002

There have been several waves of calls for methodological pluralism
in the marketing literature. However, there has been little discussion
about the implementation of new applications and techniques. Attempts to
address this disparity. Focuses on the use of the computer for
qualitative data analysis by drawing on discussions from a broad range
of other social science disciplines. Examines the merits and
disadvantages of these applications and discusses some of the concerns
which have been expressed about their use. Through this discussion aims
to progress the methodological debate in marketing research.
High‐tech NPD success through faster overseas launch
Authors: Oakley Paul
Published: July 2002

Improving customer value through faster response times is a significant way to gain competitive advantage. Suggests that many approaches to new product development (NPD) have an internal focus ‐ in which the NPD process is viewed as terminating with product launch. However, it is process output that really counts, e.g. customer availability. Proposes that with shortening product life cycles it should pay to get the product into the market as quickly as possible, and indicates that these markets should be defined on an international basis. Presents the results of a survey of the new product launch practices of UK high‐tech manufacturing companies. Shows that greater new product commercial success is signifi‐ cantly associated with a more ambitious and speedier launch into overseas markets. The implications are that high‐tech firms wishing to maximize the potential of their new products should see the “advanced” world as their market; penetrating overseas markets as boldly and as quickly as possible. The process of innovation is only complete when potential customers on a world scale are introduced effectively to the new product.
Use of expert systems in international marketing
Authors: Tamer Cavusgil S. , Evirgen Cuneyt
Published: July 2002

Scarcity of expert knowledge and complexity of decisions make decision making particularly difficult in international marketing. Hence, international marketing offers an appropriate domain for development of useful expert system application. Evaluation and selection of partners for international co‐operative ventures is one of the most complex and critical decisions made by managers. After a brief discussion of expert systems, presents an expert system application for co‐operative venture partner selection.
Modelling customer satisfaction in Telecom New Zealand
Authors: Danaher Peter J. , Gallagher Rodger W.
Published: July 2002

Presents some techniques developed by Telecom New Zealand where first the component factors that most influence the overall satisfaction rating of Telecom’s service are found. Second, these components are quantified and the improvement required for each component to meet overall excellence targets is determined. Gives a successful example of International Directory Assistance which shows that these techniques have significantly raised customer overall satisfaction in just five months.
Dynamic analysis of competition in marketing Strategic groups in Spanish banking
Authors: José Más Ruíz Francisco
Published: July 2002

The analysis of strategic groups has important implications for marketing in order to identify a firm’s competitive position. Aims to analyse the development of the competence in an industry. Hypothesizes that the analysis of strategic groups is only meaningful when it is determined that the groupings obtained are not random events within a particular industry. Uses multivariate statistical tests to determine the stable sub‐periods, the strategic groups, and their dynamic characteristics over the years. Applies this technique to the Spanish banking sector and detects a relative intra‐industrial instability, and a significant change in the number and strategy of the identified groups with the passing of time.
The bitter and the sweet
Authors: Eriksson Päivi , Räsänen Keijo
Published: July 2002

This paper focuses on the processes by which different manager groups can influence product mix changes. The paper analyses three different types of process ‐ dominance, compromise and integration ‐ through which the extensiveness and renewal of a product mix was shaped by groups of marketing and production managers, general managers and owner‐managers. Each of the groups developed their own understanding, or “logic of action”, about the most desirable product mix. It is shown that these logics of action play an important role in product mix changes, not as isolated elements but in interaction with one another and the industry context. This paper provides a detailed empirical analysis of a product mix pattern over a long duration by illustrating the three different forms of managerial interaction by which the product mix was achieved. The contribution of the study is twofold. First, the study shows that historical and contextual studies are required in order to understand the role and relevance of marketing activities and marketing based actors in business firms. Second, the study gives evidence for the usefulness of inter‐disciplinary research and discussion within the field of marketing studies.
A case for more integrative multi‐disciplinary marketing education
Authors: Walker Rhett H. , Hanson Dallas , Nelson Lindsay , Fisher Cathy
Published: July 2002

Marketing education that develops in students an understanding of core theory and practical principles, but does not encourage students to see connections between the courses that they study, may not sufficiently meet current organisational needs. The present organisational trend in Australia and New Zealand towards agility and flexibility, demands not only that employees be equipped with necessary technical knowledge, but that they must be able to integrate and use that knowledge in a creative and synergistic manner. A possible solution put forward in this paper lies in a more integrated course curriculum and means of assessment, with an emphasis on attitude change and integrative ability rather than a revolutionary alteration of the knowledge base.
Ownership decisions in plural contractual systems
Authors: Dahlstrom Robert , Nygaard Arne
Published: July 2002

A substantial body of research employs agency theory and transaction costs analysis to explain ownership decisions in distribution channels. Agency theory identifies factors that prompt firms to favor behavior‐based contracting over outcome‐based agreements. Transaction cost economics is a complementary framework which maintains that the organizational form in a location should be the one that economizes on production and transaction costs. Prior research illustrates that independent variables (e.g. proximity to highways, dedicated assets) outlined in these theories provide a partial explanation for ownership decisions. Nevertheless, scant research has analyzed whether factors outlined in agency theory and transaction cost analysis are employed by executives when making ownership decisions. The purpose of this study is to investigate managerial rationales underlying plural contractual networks.
Marketing in medium‐sized manufacturing firms
Authors: Brooksbank Roger , Kirby David A. , Taylor David , Jones‐Evans Dylan
Published: July 2002

Many studies have highlighted the important role that marketing plays in contributing to a firm’s competitive success. In most cases, however, research has focused on either large businesses, or, to a lesser extent, very small businesses, essentially ignoring the many “medium‐sized” firms in between. Thus, this paper aims to assess, in quantitative terms, both the extent to which marketing has been adopted, and the rate of its adoption between 1987 and 1992 within UK medium‐sized manufacturing firms. The investigation is based on a mail survey, conducted in 1987, of 231 companies, which was repeated in 1992, resulting in the analysis of a matched sample of 81 firms. The survey suggests that although most businesses claim to be considerably marketing‐oriented in their overall business philosophy, they do not necessarily “practise what they preach”. Further, it shows that the state‐of‐the‐marketing‐art changed little during the five‐year period and raises questions about the evolution of marketing in small and medium‐sized enterprises and about the extent to which the normative models of marketing practice are applicable to smaller firms.
Marketing fresh fruit to Japanese consumers: exploring issues for Australian exporters
Authors: Miyauchi Yukiko , Perry Chad
Published: July 2002

Japan has the world’s second largest food service sector and its food market is three times greater than all other Asian food markets combined. Thus, exports of fresh fruit to Japan have potential for growth, but little research has been done about Japanese fresh fruit markets. Examines exports of fresh fruit from Australia to Japan, using fresh mangoes as a case study to explore the issues involved. A literature review of the fresh fruit market in Japan and Japanese consumer preferences for fruit formulates three research issues: (1) How do Japanese consumers view the taste and other characteristics of a new and foreign fruit such as mangoes?; (2) What are the factors affecting the popularisation of new and foreign fruit such as mangoes, in Japan?; (3) What are the possible bases for segmentation of the market for new and foreign fruit such as mangoes, in Japan? Next, the focus group methodology used to explore these issues is described and justified. Findings about each of the issues are compared with theory, and a model of fresh fruit opportunities in Japan is developed. Finally, implications for management about the promotion of a fresh fruit like mangoes are addressed and implications for further research are noted.
360° feedback process: performance, improvement and employee career development
Authors: McCarthy Alma M. , Garavan Thomas N.
Published: July 2002

360° feedback processes have gained popularity as a performance management and career development tool in contemporary organisations. This monograph explores the nature of 360° feedback, investigates the factors which have influenced its emergence and contrasts it with more traditional performance management processes used by organisations. It specifically identifies the benefits and problems associated with 360° feedback in the context of management of performance and employee career development. The monograph considers the issues surrounding different sources of feedback, i.e. peer, subordinate and self. The monograph concludes with a discussion of the issues pertaining to the use of multi‐rater feedback as a tool for performance improvement and career development.
Simulation study on rotating radial electromagnetic force for use in dynamic balancing
Authors: Li Yong , Lu Yongping
Published: July 2002

A tentative idea of introducing rotating electromagnetic force for dynamic balancing is presented in the paper. A method of generating the force is put forward, the force generated has adjustable magnitude, speed and phase angle. Working characteristics of the force are analyzed. Phase windings fed with half sine currents are designed to restrain pulsation of the force vector in space. Simulation results of a model indicate that a rotating force vector can be obtained by selecting a proper number of phases simultaneously fed with currents, which is able to meet the needs of ordinary engineering problems.
Newton and quasi‐Newton algorithms for non‐linear electromagnetic–thermal coupled problems
Authors: Driesen Johan , Hameyer Kay
Published: July 2002

A general framework for the application of the Newton methods in non‐linear coupled electromagnetic‐thermal problems solved with the FEM on independent subproblem meshes is presented. The explicit derivation of the Jacobian matrix is outlined and discussed. A matrix‐free quasi‐Newton method, to be used along with linear system solvers built around Jacobian‐vector products is presented. This method does not require explicit derivatives and can be parallelised. The numerical aspects of these methods are discussed. The different Newton methods are demonstrated using a steady‐state conductive heating example problem.
Neural network model of magnetic hysteresis
Authors: Kuczmann Miklós , Iványi Amália
Published: July 2002

The classical Preisach model and its modifications are one of the most generally applied simulations to model the behavior of magnetic materials, to describe hysteresis phenomena and different properties, as noncongruent minor loops, frequency dependence, temperature dependence, accommodation, and so on. Artificial neural networks (NNs) are widely used in fields of research where the solution of problems with conventional methods on traditional computers is very difficult to work out, for example system identification, modeling and function approximation. NNs can be considered as universal approximation for functions based on the theorem of Kolmogorov‐Arnold. In this paper a new NN model of scalar hysteresis characteristics is introduced. The examined method is built on the function approximation and continuous interpolation capability of NNs. The anhysteretic magnetization curve and a set of the ascending and a set of the descending first order reversal branches can be stored in a system of three neural networks. Different properties of magnetic materials can be simulated by a simple knowledge‐based algorithm. Value of differential susceptibility can be expressed in analytical form. Finally hysteresis characteristics predicted by the introduced model are compared with the results of the Preisach simulation.
To the role of decomposition strategy in high parallel algorithms
Authors: Hanuliak Ivan
Published: July 2002

Describes the important role of decomposition strategy in parallel computing, and its influence is illustrated with the example of a very frequently used parallel algorithm for matrix multiplication. On the basis of the performed analysis of the parallel computers used worldwide divides them into the two basic groups which are considered from the programmer‐developer point of view to be very different. They also introduce the typical principal structures for both these groups of parallel computers and also their models. The paper then in an illustrative way describes the development of concrete parallel algorithm for matrix multiplication on various parallel systems. For each individual practical implementation of matrix multiplication there is introduced the derivation of its calculation complexity. The individual ways of developing parallel matrix multiplication and their implementations are compared, analysed and discussed from the point of view of the programmer‐developer and user. The very important role of the decomposition strategies that are mainly of the class of asynchronous parallel computers is highlighted.
Convergence of Adomian’s method applied to algebraic equations
Authors: Ouedraogo R.Z. , Cherruault Y. , Abbaoui K.
Published: July 2002

Considers the convergence of Adomian’s method applied to algebraic equations. Presents directly some conditions of convergence which only depend on the equations’ coefficients and also gives an estimation of the truncation error together with some numerical applications.
Use of mathematical morphology in real‐time path planning
Authors: Pujol F.A. , García Chamizo J.M. , Fuster A. , Pujol M. , Rizo R.
Published: July 2002

If an autonomous vehicle is working in an image‐based system which needs real‐time answers and whose response is critical, it will be very important to reduce computation times and, as we know, this could be performed by increasing the system parallelism. Since morphological filtering is the origin of several applications in computer vision, in this paper we are going to describe some new features to implement morphological operations by using digital signal processors. After that, an application to path planning is proposed. The standard shortest path planning problem determines a collision‐free path of shortest distance between two distinct locations in an environment scattered with obstacles. Consequently, a path planning algorithm which uses morphological operations and a DSP to process images is then described.
Supporting sets for general systems
Authors: Liu Guoyang
Published: July 2002

In this paper, we introduce the concept of a supporting set for a general system. We study basic properties of supporting sets for a general system, supporting sets for subsytems of a system, homomorphic images of supporting sets for a system, and supporting sets for free sums and direct sums of systems.
Policing our campuses: a national review of statutes
Authors: Bromley Max L.
Published: July 2002

Provides a profile of state laws pertaining to campus police. Reveals wide variations across the USA. Notes that statutes are often the state legislature’s ad hoc response to a problem. Many campuses require their police to be deputized by the local police authorities. Finds that the majority of states grant police authority to officers at public institutions and that it is usual for the governing body or chief executive officer to have appointing authority over campus police. Suggests elements for a model campus police statute.
The effects of aggressive policing: the Dayton traffic enforcement experiment
Authors: Weiss Alexander , Freels Sally
Published: July 2002

Reports on a field experiment in Dayton, Ohio, where the police department has no specialized traffic division, hence traffic enforcement is part of the routine assignment. Aims to measure the effects of traffic law enforcement on crime, arrests and traffic accidents. Presents data covering all index arrests and special arrests involving weapons, drugs and offenders driving under influence, plus all reported traffic accidents. Contrary to other research, fails to detect a relationship between traffic enforcement and crime. Investigates possible reasons for this.
Crime, criminals and guns in “natural settings”: exploring the basis for disarming federal rangers
Authors: Pendleton Michael R.
Published: July 2002

Reports from within a larger study of crime and enforcement in forests and parks, this field study having taken place in western USA over a 24‐month period. Interviews Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) about their career history, the enforcement system and related issues ‐ notably weapons events. Finds that LEOs are not heavy‐handed and that the types of crime encountered give valid reasons for their carriage of firearms.
Who owns the online consumer?
Authors: Prabhaker Paul R.
Published: July 2002

Powerful emerging technologies, fierce competition in the marketplace, more sophisticated consumers and the relentless drive for higher corporate earnings are at the root of online consumers’ information privacy concerns. The issue of consumer privacy could be a defining element in the battle for the ownership of online consumers. Businesses have a choice in how they respond to this matter. They can see it as a threat and simply react defensively. Or they can treat this as an opportunity and be proactive in maximizing the gains. Clearly, businesses that add value to their offerings by leveraging Internet technology in coordination with a proactive policy to preserve consumer privacy will be the success stories of the future. The goal of this research is to identify the strategic and tactical opportunities created by online consumers’ privacy concerns. Approaches to treating the privacy concerns as a source of competitive advantage are clearly discussed.
Misplaced marketing
Authors: Feuerborn Thomas A.
Published: July 2002

Uncovers some of the misplaced marketing techniques of investment companies. Suggests that because the most valuable marketing tool for a new mutual fund is a strong performance record many companies provide “illusions” of certain returns. Asserts that new funds are launched directly to the public with preferential treatment at the expense of other funds within the family or by providing a period of “incubation” for the fund. However, the consumer is often misdirected as the funds often revert to average returns after a couple of years. Believes that government intervention is required in this marketplace.
Marketplace diversity and cost‐effective marketing strategies
Authors: Cui Geng , Choudhury Pravat
Published: July 2002

As the population and purchasing power of ethnic minority consumers in the USA continue to grow, more marketers are using subcultural segmentation and targeted marketing to reach these consumers. Meanwhile, some marketers have grown increasingly concerned with the cost‐effectiveness of ethnic segmentation and differentiated marketing. This research reviews various methods for segmenting the ethnic markets and suggests the nested approach and cost‐benefit optimization for analyzing the cost‐effectiveness of ethnic segmentation and marketing. Furthermore, this research proposes four alternative strategies for marketing in a multicultural environment. Directions for future research and managerial implications are explored.
An investigation of product purchase and subsequent non‐consumption
Authors: Trocchia Philip J. , Janda Swinder
Published: July 2002

Reports on two studies which examine why individuals purchase goods and services that they later never fully utilize or consume. The first study employs qualitative methods to ascertain consumer motivations for purchasing unused products and their reasons for subsequent non‐consumption. The second study employs survey methodology to quantify results of the earlier study. Primary motivations included self‐presentation, self‐improvement, satisficing, impulse purchase, salesperson influence, unintended purchase and acquiring competence. Reasons for non‐usage included self‐consciousness, lack of enthusiasm, disappointing results, maintenance difficulties, concern about injury, use difficulties, unmet expectations, contingency reasons and displaced by current possessions. Investigates relationships between purchase motivations and reasons for non‐usage and discusses theoretical and managerial implications of this study.
The ethicality of altruistic corporate social responsibility
Authors: Lantos Geoffrey P.
Published: July 2002

This commentary questions commonly held assumptions about corporate social responsibility (CSR). It discusses the morality of altruistic CSR – philanthropic CSR activities that are not necessarily beneficial to the firm’s financial position. Evaluating altruistic CSR from all major ethical perspectives – utilitarianism, rights, justice and care – leads to the conclusion that, for publicly held corporations, such activity is immoral. This is because altruistic CSR violates shareholder property rights, unjustly seizing stockholder wealth, and it bestows benefits for the general welfare at the expense of those for whom the firm should care in close relationships. The paper also determines that what are often considered mandatory ethical and social corporate duties are actually optional activities that should only be undertaken when it appears that they can enhance the value of the firm, i.e. when they are used as strategic CSR. However, using ideas taken from secular and Judaeo‐Christian authors on the meaning of work, the article also concludes that altruistic activities are appropriate and commendable for private firms and individuals. It offers suggestions for practitioners of CSR and for future academic research.