bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The decision to build and the organisation
Authors: Woodhead Roy , Smith Jim
Published: January 2003

The decision to build initiates the development process. After taking account of all the factors it represents a decision to embark on a built solution to satisfy the organisation’s strategic objectives. It is a decision that senior managers and members of the design team should be aware of, reflect on and consider why the decision to build was made in the first place. By understanding the history of the strategic decision the design team may be better able to respond to client requirements and opportunities by providing the most appropriate building. In practice, most participants in the design process are often divorced from the decision within the client organisation and may lack the necessary background information that informed, guided or forced the choice of a building solution. There is a dearth of well‐documented material and literature on this key decision in the development process. The literature is sparse and that which does exist often ignores or only includes as a secondary issue the decision to build. The attitude is often one where the decision is generally accepted as a given, not to be revisited or amended by later players. Presents some key findings from the research into the project inception and the decision to build process, with particular emphasis on the environmental factors that influence the process and the product.
FM policies and standards as a knowledge management system
Authors: Puddy Jeffrey R. , Price If , Smith Louise
Published: January 2003

Deployment and effectiveness of a series of property and facilities management (FM) policies and standards is examined from a knowledge management perspective. Does that give a better basis for effective deployment than a view of policy as driven by experts interpreting business need? A survey of the perceptions of users concerning the need for, and the deployment in practice of, standards reveals four factors which appear to correlate with the steps of the knowledge creation process suggested by Nonaka and Takeuchi. The authors believe this to be the first demonstration of FM conceptualised in such a manner. Adopting a more socially orientated approach which maximises the individual’s input to the knowledge creation process, should lead to improved quality of codified knowledge, and improvement in both customer satisfaction levels and deployment in practice of standards.
Building energy efficiency and the remuneration of operation and maintenance personnel
Authors: Yik Francis W.H. , Lee W.L. , Ng C.K.
Published: January 2003

The lack of knowledge and motivation of the operation and maintenance (O&M) staff together with the available financial resources, are the key barriers to improving energy efficiency of buildings. A survey of O&M personnel has been conducted recently in Hong Kong to find out the energy consumption and the resource inputs to the operation and maintenance of services in commercial buildings. In turn, the current level of knowledge and skills of the O&M personnel was evaluated. Analysis of the collected data revealed that buildings with higher energy performance were associated with O&M personnel who were better paid. The income of the O&M personnel was associated with academic qualification and experience but a steady rate of rise could only be sustained by continued improvement. A feasible way to boost improvements in building energy performance would be to provide rewards that are linked to savings in energy costs.
Developing an Estonian national facilities management standard
Authors: Liias Roode
Published: January 2003

Numerous strategies are used to identify and regulate facilities management activities in different countries. Thus, there is a common requirement that the managed facilities should be safe and acceptable for the user. The availability of a national facilities management standard is essential to understanding the obligations of the owners, users and the different service providers. Standards are also required for the facilities management service assisting companies to plan the workload for the contractors. By 2001, Tallinn Technical University in co‐operation with the Estonian Association for Property Management and Maintenance developed the national standard for facilities management activities. The standard is built up as a hierarchic list of activities to satisfy the goals described in the standard. The aim of this standard development project was to simplify and rationalise the understanding of all the activities required when running different properties and maintaining them in proper state of repair and suitable for the user. This standard defines the relevant terms and the major obligations for the related parties to develop a common understanding about facilities management, but also defines the major performance criteria for the definition of quality.
From concept to norm – an explorative study of office design management from an organizational perspective
Authors: Gustafsson C.
Published: January 2003

All organizations exist within a physical setting, and act according to the constraints and limitations imposed by it. The way an organization chooses to manage its physical space affects workplace dynamics. Explores how a standard for workspace design has developed over time in the research and development department of a large Swedish industrial corporation. This standard is intended to be an organizational tool for handling issues of office design. Departs from an open systems perspective and examines the problem of designing and managing physical space in relation to organizational levels of complexity and in terms of a wicked problem, as defined by Rittel and Weber. Results indicate that the standard was developed at a high level of complexity in the organization, and was recognized as a solution to a wicked problem. However, as the change developed into a more administrative phase, the ownership of the problem was moved to lower organizational levels, with a reduced complexity as a result. This means that the standard no longer works as intended.
A framework for the design of warehouse layout
Authors: Mohsen
Published: January 2003

This paper presents a framework for the design of warehouse layout to organize the design process, facilitate the task of designers, and highlight important design issues to help warehouse managers make informed decisions. The framework accounts for several factors and operations of warehousing in the design, and addresses design decisions required to respond to them. It attempts to develop a layout that has several characteristics such as modularity, adaptability, compactness, accessibility, flexibility, and distribution of movement to enable it to respond to changing conditions, improve space utilization, and reduce congestion and movement.
The marketing planning experience: a UK and Portuguese comparison
Authors: Dibb Sally , Farhangmehr Minoo , Simkin Lyndon
Published: January 2003

Most marketing managers are now convinced about the benefits that businesses gain from marketing planning. In the UK, research indicates that the majority of businesses are involved in some kind of planning activity. In Portugal, where the marketing function is less well established, marketing planning is not so developed. Presents the results of a comparative study which examines the level and nature of marketing activity in Portuguese and UK firms and considers the impact upon marketing planning activity. The study is based on a sample of firms drawn from the top 1,000 businesses (by turnover) in the UK and Portugal. Illustrates stark contrasts in the characteristics of marketing planning in each country, although there are signs of increasing marketing and planning activity in Portugal.
Consumers and brands: a study of the impact of self‐image congruence on brand preference and satisfaction
Authors: Jamal Ahmad , Goode Mark M.H.
Published: January 2003

Previous research indicates that the self‐image product image congruity (commonly known as self‐image congruence) can affect consumers’ product preferences and their purchase intentions. Self‐image congruence can also facilitate positive behaviour and attitudes toward products. This paper reports findings from a research study which was conducted to determine the effect of self‐image congruity on brand preference and satisfaction in the precious jewellery market in the UK. A questionnaire was sent to 500 consumers of precious jewellery in five major cities of the UK. Results indicate that self‐image congruity was a very strong predictor of consumers’ brand preferences and a good predictor of consumer satisfaction. Respondents with higher levels of self‐image congruity were more likely to prefer the brand and enjoy higher levels of satisfaction with the brand as compared to those with lower levels of self‐image congruity. The paper discusses the implications for brand managers so that they can position their brands in an effective way.
A preliminary study of product nature and electronic commerce
Authors: Poon Simpson , Joseph Mathew
Published: January 2003

It may be logical to think that a firm offering products that can be delivered online will benefit more from Internet commerce. However, there is limited evidence to prove if this is entirely true. This paper reports a preliminary study that examines whether product characteristics have significant effect on Internet commerce benefit. The results indicate that product characteristics in isolation do not have a significant effect on Internet commerce benefit. No significant difference in experience of Internet commerce benefit is observed between those who offer physical goods and those who offer digital ones. Although the one‐sided result may have been sampling bias, it requires management to rethink their marketing strategy based not solely on product nature.
Western exporting manufacturers’ channel structure in emerging markets
Authors: Li Lee
Published: January 2003

Should western exporting manufacturers use independent resident distributors or employee salesforce when they enter emerging markets? Existing theories provide different answers and contradict one another. This inductive study of 17 western exporting manufacturers led to propositions exploring that question. Findings from this study suggest that both channel structures be associated with advantages and disadvantages. Choices of channel structure depend on market entry stages and market conditions.
Land administration infrastructures for sustainable development
Authors: Enemark Stig
Published: January 2003

The paper presents a global model for understanding land administration systems in support of sustainable development. The evolution of these systems is presented as a response to the dynamic relation between humankind and land. The Nordic evolution is described with a focus that any land administration system is embedded in the cultural and judicial setting of the individual country/jurisdiction. The issue of spatial information infrastructures is recognised as an increasingly important component for achieving sustainable development in developed as well as developing countries. The paper discusses the conceptual, political and economic mechanisms, and examples are given with regard to the Danish conceptual approach in this area. Finally, the paper deals with the issue of decentralisation and the impact of central vs local government in land management in support of sustainable development. It is argued that competencies should rest with the lowest possible level of jurisdiction so as to combine responsibility for decision making with accountability for financial and environmental consequences.
Progress in real estate education in South Africa
Authors: Cloete C.E.
Published: January 2003

This paper provides an overview of real estate educational programmes currently being offered in the Republic of South Africa as well as the role of the South African Property Education Committee in this respect. The emphasis is on programmes offered by formal tertiary educational institutions (i.e. universities and technikons) as well as on programmes offered by the major professional bodies in the field of real estate. Both undergraduate and post‐graduate courses at all universities and technikons are addressed and the implications of recent developments in this field are indicated. The background to the recently established national qualifications framework (NQF) is sketched and the present progress with the implementation of the outcomes‐based NQF with regard to real estate education is summarised. This overview provides a sound basis for comparing real estate educational programmes in South Africa with those offered in other countries.
Environmental effects on residential property values resulting from the contamination effects of a creosote plant site
Authors: Bible Douglas S. , Hsieh Chengho , Joiner Gary , Volentine David W.
Published: January 2003

This study examines the effects of site contamination on residential property values in Northwest Louisiana, a region well‐known for having numerous environmental problems. The old Lincoln Creosote site is the focus of this study. Home sales data are examined in detail in an attempt to measure any effects on property values that result from homes being located on or near this remediated site. A hedonic pricing model is used to help evaluate the influence of housing and neighborhood variables on home prices. The model includes a dummy variable, whether or not the home is in a neighborhood located in a contaminated area, to estimate the effects of the contaminated site on property values.
Application of family life cycle concept in determining potential segment for housing projects
Authors: da Costa Ganzo Fernandez João Alberto , de Oliveira Roberto , Hochheim Norberto
Published: January 2003

This paper highlights the importance and demonstrates the application of a segmentation strategy, based on the concept of the family life cycle, in real estate market analysis. Each stage in the family life cycle has its particular preferences regarding locational attributes. Neighbourhood characteristics can, therefore, reveal which segments should be the target of marketing campaigns. In order to increase the chances of a building successfully meeting the user’s requirements and therefore of achieving quick sales, its spatial conception, facilities and leisure attributes must be orientated to satisfy these different segments. To confirm this hypothesis and to exemplify the method presented, two high rise apartment buildings, in the city of Florianópolis, Brazil, are evaluated. The compatibility of their architectural attributes and the identified needs of respective potential marketing segments (according to the study of the locations) is verified. The results of this analysis, based on how fast the apartments were sold, confirm the effectiveness of the method.
Can we meet the challenge? The educating systems librarian research project report 3
Authors: Xu Hong , Chen Hsin‐liang
Published: January 2003

The investigators examined 133 job advertisements with job title “systems librarians’‘ and other similar job titles in American Libraries from January 1996 to December 1997. Information about full‐time positions available in the United States only was collected. For examination, four variables and their components were studied: degree requirements, work experience, job responsibilities, and knowledge and skills. Based on the classified job advertisements three types of libraries were identified: academic, public and other libraries. Two follow‐up questionnaires were distributed to library directors and newly hired systems librarians of the 133 libraries. The follow‐up survey based on the two questionnaires reflects that the majority of employers are satisfied with their newly hired systems librarians. However, they have higher expectations from the positions in terms of qualifications and responsibilities. The investigators also examined the curricula of seven American LIS schools which concentrate on educating “systems librarians” to provide recommendations to the curriculum design.
Wrong way: go back! An exploration of novice search behaviours while conducting an information search
Authors: Debowski Shelda
Published: January 2003

The push toward the development of user‐managed online search processes is clearly evident in libraries. Implicit in this trend is the assumption that searchers are competent in searching these services and retrieving their desired information. However, a close examination of the search strategies of novices while they performed an information search task reveals some significant barriers to successful searching. The results illustrate that novice searchers work very hard on their searches, but find it difficult to develop an effective strategy. These difficulties often prevent successful completion of the search process. The study raises some serious issues which need to be further explored, particularly in terms of tracing user search behaviours, and in developing appropriate support services for such clients.
Beyond the virtual library: electronic curriculum Web resources
Authors: Myers Glenda , Saunders Suzanne , Rogers Geoff
Published: January 2003

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand is to implement an electronic curriculum for a new Graduate Entry Medical Program at the beginning of 2003. The literature relating to the provision of electronic problem‐based learning curricula indicates that most libraries involved in the provision of resources for such programs have simply provided a quickly outdated bibliographic list of databases and e‐resources for further consultation. As part of a multidisciplinary teaching and design team, the Witwatersrand Health Sciences Library (WHSL) has set up a proactive intranet of Web‐based links to e‐resources and multimedia that are integrated into the actual e‐case studies. It appears that WHSL has designed a truly integrated and interactive Web‐based resource intranet, with direct links from the actual curriculum material to the information resources themselves.
CUNY+ Web: usability study of the Web‐based GUI version of the bibliographic database of the City University of New York (CUNY)
Authors: Oulanov Alexei , Pajarillo Edmund J.Y.
Published: January 2003

A previous article reported the usability evaluation of the information database called CUNY+ of the City University of New York (CUNY) in New York City, USA. This is a text‐based information system available on the wide‐area network in its various campuses for faculty, students and researchers. This present article describes the usability evaluation of this CUNY system’s Web and GUI version called the CUNY+ Web. A comparison of the results of both usability studies, and a description of the applicability of the previous usability instrument to this CUNY+ Web research is included.
Document delivery system for Greek libraries
Authors: Kapidakis Sarantos
Published: January 2003

The capability of the current Union Catalogue application, which assists the cooperation between 232 libraries throughout Greece, is discussed. Using this application, librarians can search for desired scientific journals, locate possible provider libraries and select some of them. Afterwards they can monitor the status of the order until it is completed. The librarians providing articles can examine their pending orders in their screen and handle them by locating the printed journal, sending the article in the designated way and updating the order status. The capability of a successor application, already under preparation, is also discussed. This new version will allow easier – and independent of other libraries – updating of journal data, the capability of using external sources of journal collections and also information about article details, for detecting articles in journals, as well as the exploration of electronic sources of full text archives for providing articles without human intervention.
Key barriers to international resource sharing and OCLC actions to help remove them
Authors: Spies Phyllis B.
Published: January 2003

The end goals of international resource sharing can be summed up in two phrases – “Find it” and “Get it”. This is what end‐users really care about. The information object, the real thing, is what they want and how and where are less important than when. It sounds so simple, but this is far from the reality. This paper reviews four of the key challenges surrounding global library resource sharing: the Internet and end‐user behaviour; languages and character sets; lack of a critical mass of online metadata for the world’s libraries; and lack of a tradition of library co‐operation in many countries. It also describes the initiatives that OCLC has underway to tackle the challenges head‐on.
Adaptive analysis in elastoplasticity based on an enhanced error in constitutive relation
Authors: Gallimard L. , Pelle J.P.
Published: January 2003

Many industrial analyses require the resolution of complex nonlinear problems. For such calculations, error‐controlled adaptive strategies must be used to improve the quality of the results. In this paper, adaptive strategies for nonlinear calculations in plasticity based on an enhanced error on the constitutive relation are presented. We focus on the adaptivity of the mesh and of the time discretization.
Finite element modelling of heat transfer through permeable cracks in hydrothermal systems with upward throughflow
Authors: Zhao Chongbin , Lin Ge , Hobbs B.E. , Mühlhaus H.B. , Ord A. , Wang Yuejun
Published: January 2003

We use the finite element method to model the heat transfer phenomenon through permeable cracks in hydrothermal systems with upward throughflow. Since the finite element method is an approximate numerical method, the method must be validated before it is used to solve any new kind of problem. However, the analytical solution, which can be used to validate the finite element method and other numerical methods, is rather limited in the literature, especially for the problem considered here. Keeping this in mind, we have derived analytical solutions for the temperature distribution along the vertical axis of a crack in a fluid‐saturated porous layer. After the finite element method is validated by comparing the numerical solution with the analytical solution for the same benchmark problem, it is used to investigate the pore‐fluid flow and heat transfer in layered hydrothermal systems with vertical permeable cracks. The related analytical and numerical results have demonstrated that vertical cracks are effective and efficient members to transfer heat energy from the bottom section to the top section in hydrothermal systems with upward throughflow.
An efficient algorithm to estimate optimal preform die shape parameters in forging
Authors: Castro Catarina F. , Costa Sousa Luísa , António C.A.C. , César de Sá J.M.A.
Published: January 2003

An optimisation method for design of intermediate die shapes needed in some forging operations is presented. The basic problem consists of finding an optimal two‐step forging sequence by automatically designing the shape of the preforming tools. The optimisation problem is defined based on an inverse formulation. The objective function of the optimisation problem is a function describing the quality of the obtained part by measuring the die underfill. The finite element method is used to simulate the forging problem. The optimisation method is based on a modified sequential unconstrained minimisation technique and a gradient method. The sensitivity‐dependent algorithm requires computing the derivatives of the objective function with respect to the design variables defining the preform shapes. A direct differentiation method has been developed for this purpose. The optimisation scheme is demonstrated with two axisymmetric forging examples in which optimal preform dies are obtained.
Computations of non‐isothermal viscous and viscoelastic flows in abrupt contractions using a finite volume method
Authors: Wachs Anthony , Clermont Jean‐Robert , Khalifeh Ahmad
Published: January 2003

A finite volume method is applied to numerical simulations of steady isothermal and non‐isothermal flows of fluids obeying different constitutive equations: Newtonian, purely viscous with shear‐thinning properties (Carreau law) and viscoelastic Upper Convected Maxwell differential model whose temperature dependence is described by a William‐Landel‐Ferry equation. The flow situations concern various abrupt axisymmetric contractions from 2:1 to 16:1. Such flow geometries are involved in polymer processing operations. The governing equations are discretized on a staggered grid with an upwind scheme for the convective‐type terms and are solved by a decoupled algorithm, stabilized by a pseudo‐transient stress term and an elastic viscous stress splitting technique. The numerical results highlight the influence of temperature on the flow situations, and also the complex behaviour of the materials under non‐isothermal conditions.
Convergence analysis for cellular automata applied to truss design
Authors: Slotta Douglas J. , Tatting Brian , Watson Layne T. , Gu¨rdal Zafer , Missoum Samy
Published: January 2003

Traditional parallel methods for structural design, as well as modern preconditioned iterative linear solvers, do not scale well. This paper discusses the application of massively scalable cellular automata (CA) techniques to structural design, specifically trusses. There are two sets of CA rules, one used to propagate stresses and strains, and one to perform design updates. These rules can be applied serially, periodically, or concurrently, and Jacobi or Gauss‐Seidel style updating can be done. These options are compared with respect to convergence, speed, and stability for an example, problem of combined sizing and topology design of truss domain structures. The central theme of the paper is that the cellular automaton paradigm is tantamount to classical block Jacobi or block Gauss‐Seidel iteration, and consequently the performance of a cellular automaton can be rigorously analyzed and predicted.
Strategic challenges for the marketing of services internationally
Authors: Javalgi Rajshekhar G. , Steven White D.
Published: January 2003

For the past decade, the marketing of services internationally has been the fastest growing segment of global trade, important to developed and developing countries alike. Yet during this same timeframe, despite numerous calls for more research in international services marketing, there exists a paucity of research. In this viewpoint, the authors offer 11 strategic challenges designed to foster further theoretical development in the area of international services marketing. Additionally, five specific areas of neglect are identified and recommendations for future research are offered.
Globalization and reluctant buyers
Authors: Suh Taewon , Kwon Ik‐Whan G.
Published: January 2003

This study attempted to empirically test a debatable hypothesis that globalization entails homogenization in consumers’ mind and behavior. Using samples from two countries (USA, n = 120 and Korea, n= 128), this study explored a path model centered on consumers’ reluctance to purchase foreign goods. The findings indicated that, in the US sample only, consumer ethnocentrism plays a mediating role between global openness and the reluctance to buy, although it is on the decrease with the increasing level of global openness. Consumer ethnocentrism is still an important factor in determining the magnitude of reluctance to buy a foreign product in both samples, while product judgment also plays an important role, but only in a certain cultural context (i.e. the USA). It is concluded, therefore, that consumers in a different culture, who are different in their attitudes and perceptions, tastes and preferences, and values, are still different even after being exposed to the massive wave of globalization.
Acquisition patterns of products facilitating financial transactions: a cross‐national investigation
Authors: Paas Leonard J.
Published: January 2003

Cross‐selling is an important issue for contemporary marketing practice, as this facilitates offering the right product to the right customer. Relevant for cross‐selling of financial products is the order in which consumers acquire such products. Previous research shows that most consumers acquire financial products used for asset accumulation purposes in similar orders. However, the literature does not report studies on acquisition patterns of products for facilitating financial transactions (e.g. chequebooks, credit cards). In this paper we propose a consumer need hierarchy, influencing consumer acquisitions of transactional products. Consecutively Mokken scale analysis is applied to investigate acquisition patterns of six transactional products in 17 European countries. The final section of the paper presents a discussion on the relevance of our results in terms of marketing purposes, emphasising cross‐selling applications.
New technologies and their impact on French consumer behaviour: an investigation in the banking sector
Authors: Ricard Line , Préfontaine Lise , Sioufi Maria
Published: January 2003

New information and communication technologies are constantly emerging, altering business methods, and particularly, the relationship an organization establishes with its customers. Therefore, it is essential to analyse the impact of these technologies on customer behaviour. The purpose of this study is to explore, in the banking sector, the impact of customers’ use of self‐service technologies on their interest in a relationship approach, and consequently in a long‐term personalized relationship. A survey of 242 adult students reveals that there is no real impact of the use of self‐service technologies on interest in a relationship approach. Respondents who use these technologies extensively do not place more or less importance on their relationship with a given bank.
Say hello, wave goodbye: missed opportunities for electronic relationship marketing within the financial services sector?
Authors: Kapoulas Alexandros , Murphy William , Ellis Nick
Published: January 2003

Recognising the potential contribution of recent technological advances, the relationship marketing (RM) literature places an emphasis on two‐way communication as a key ingredient to enhancing relationships. The paper explores these factors in the context of the UK financial services sector, focusing on the emerging phenomenon of e‐banking and specifically the adoption of electronic relationship marketing (e‐RM). Through the use of an interpretative, multi‐case research approach, it seeks to reflect senior managers’ understanding of e‐RM. Preliminary findings indicate a broad acceptance that relationships are becoming increasingly important in terms of encouraging loyalty amongst customers. Nevertheless, managers appear to be uncomfortable with their ability to establish and nurture e‐banking relationships. The use of e‐RM to create a relationship dialogue is not happening on any significant scale and presents several strategic and tactical difficulties, particularly over channel decisions. Managers seem acutely aware of the utility of electronic media networks to lower costs, but do not know how to best approach e‐customers, maintain a customer dialogue, or know whether this is what clients desire.
Investigating organizational quality management maturity: an instrument validation study
Authors: Patti Anthony L. , Hartman Sandra J. , Fok Lillian Y.
Published: January 2003

Reports an initial study to validate a brief instrument which could be useful as a tool to permit researchers to gain insight into a construct termed QM maturity – the quality of an organization’s adoption of (QM) programs. Notes that investigators have frequently confounded the length of time an organization reports that it has “been on” QM with the quality of its QM adoption. Yet it is entirely possible that an organization that reports that it has had quality programs in place for a considerable period of time may have adopted those programs poorly and superficially. The researchers were aware that a significant research stream was in place and investigating these issues, but were concerned that the available instruments tended to be extremely lengthy, aimed at top management rather than the workforce as a whole, or oriented toward a manufacturing rather than service environment. Reports initial work to validate a brief instrument that is potentially useful at all organizational levels and in both service and manufacturing. Suggests that the findings indicate that the instrument is consistent with an instrument from the existing research stream and that it also shows relationships to worker perceptions of organizational culture, Baldrige criteria, and job enrichment in directions that would be expected in the quality environment.
Does the measure of information quality influence survival bias?
Authors: Sen Kaustav
Published: January 2003

Examines certain issues related to application of total quality management to the information systems setting, in particular to the measurement of output quality. Data produced by a system are often transformed for decision making by end users. Although ensuring the quality of the data can be achieved, it is difficult to control for all the inferences made by end users. Using a financial reports database as an example, demonstrates how the choice of measure of information quality can sometimes bias the survival time of firms in the sample. The analysis uses the Cox proportional hazards model to demonstrate that when immaterial data errors are present after firms have incurred a loss, sometimes they increase their survival chances. Such consequences are valid in other settings as well and demonstrate that defining and measuring the quality of information systems needs more considerations than is generally assumed.
Novel risk assessment techniques for maritime safety management system
Authors: Sing Sii How , Wang Jin , Ruxton Tom
Published: January 2003

Following a brief review of the current status of offshore safety regulations in the UK, several issues pertaining to the problems encountered in applying the existing reliability and safety analysis methods in quantitative safety appraisal studies, especially in the early concept design stage of maritime engineering products, are discussed. Presents three novel risk assessment and decision support frameworks. These include a design trade‐off approach using Taguchi method, a safety based decision support system based on artificial neural network techniques, and a fuzzy‐logic‐based synthesis incorporating the Dempster‐Shafer approach for making multiple attribute decision. Three illustrative examples are used to demonstrate the novel tools, together with the discussion on the conditions under which each approach may be applied effectively. Finally, recommendations on further development in safety modelling, decision‐making techniques and their integration into safety management systems, are suggested.
Do managers cope productively?
Authors: Frydenberg Erica , Lewis Ramon
Published: January 2003

This study investigates the relationship between workplace context and how people cope with their concerns. It does so by examining the coping behaviour of a group of 137 Australian middle managers within one organisation and 236 community‐based adults, none of whom were managers. In general, the managers, irrespective of gender and age, are more likely to respond to their general concerns by applying themselves and engaging in problem solving. They are less likely to engage in non‐productive strategies like worry, letting off steam and wishful thinking. Whether those selected as managers are people who use different coping strategies to others, or whether immersion in the corporate climate leads to development of specific coping strategies, is discussed.
Rating a boss, a colleague and a subordinate
Authors: Furnham Adrian
Published: January 2003

Previous research has indicated that the evaluation of a candidates’ managerial status is partly a function of whether the raters are potentially subordinates or supervisors of the candidate. Extends this research by examining participants’ perceptions of the most desirable characteristic in a boss, colleague and subordinate. Just under 150 participants completed a personality test and rated 20 desirable characteristics they felt important. Results indicated that while honesty and competency were highly favoured in all three, there were many and significant differences particularly between boss and subordinate. Participants valued independence and loyalty much more in subordinates than bosses. Bosses’ most desirable characteristics included forward‐looking, inspiring, intelligent and fairminded, while subordinates were particularly valued for being dependable and determined. The 20 characteristics factored into factors mainly concerned with supportiveness, inspiration, competence, determination and honesty. Personality factors in the participants played little role on their rating; however, age and ideology were systematically related to their preferences. Discusses the results in terms of multi‐rater processes, appraisal and the consequences of only having top‐down evaluations.
Performance auditing in governments
Authors: Dittenhofer Mort
Published: January 2003

Governments function differently from business organizations. Thus, performance or operational auditing becomes necessary to replace the measure of success evidenced by the latter through the measurement of profit. Governments are evaluated through performance auditing by measuring efficiency, economy, and effectiveness. Unique planning, specialized staffing, government oriented scope and government management reporting constitute the parameters of a performance auditing model appropriate for government officials and stakeholders.
Analytical auditing and risk analysis in government
Authors: Dittenhofer Mort
Published: January 2003

The subjects of risk assessment and analytical auditing are recent important developments in the general area of auditing; they are also subjects that are equally important to the general function of government financial management. First focuses on analytical auditing because it directs attention to situations where analysis indicates that there are unusual, unexplained relationships that should receive attention. Next, determines the degree of importance of the indicated aspects, the process of risk analysis.
Statistical verification of performance difference based on balanced scorecards
Authors: Chan Y.K.
Published: January 2003

This paper highlights the procedures and results of using a non‐parametric test to verify the statistical significance of the organisational performance improvement after the implementation of an integrated management system. The methodology has been proved to be effective for analysing performance difference based on the organisation’s balanced scorecard performance indicators. The test provides a quick snapshot of performance analysis.
Variation in coding influence across the USA
Authors: Lorence Daniel P. , Richards Michael
Published: January 2003

Recent anti‐fraud enforcement policies across the US health‐care system have led to widespread speculation about the effectiveness of increased penalties for overcharging practices adopted by health‐care service organizations. Severe penalties, including imprisonment, suggest that fraudulent billing, and related misclassification of services provided to patients, would be greatly reduced or eliminated as a result of increased government investigation and reprisal. This study sought to measure the extent to which health information managers reported being influenced by superiors to manipulate coding and classification of patient data. Findings from a nationwide survey of managers suggest that such practices are still pervasive, despite recent counter‐fraud legislation and highly visible prosecution of fraudulent behaviors. Examining variation in influences exerted from both within and external to specific service delivery settings, results suggest that pressure to alter classification codes occurred both within and external to the provider setting. We also examine how optimization influences vary across demographic, practice setting, and market characteristics, and find significant variation in influence across practice settings and market types. Implications for reimbursement programs and evidence‐based health care are discussed.
From home, to market, to headquarters, to home
Authors: Gauld Robin
Published: January 2003

Health sector restructuring has been in vogue, but no country has engaged in as much health sector restructuring as New Zealand where, in a decade, there have been four different public health sector structures. This article discusses New Zealand’s four structures with an emphasis on relocating the critical functions of health care planning and purchasing, and on the development of the present district health board system. The four structures include: an area health board system (1989‐1991) with planning and purchasing located at “home” in local areas and closely aligned with service provision; a competitive internal market system (1993‐1996) which separated planning and purchasing from service provision; a centralised system with a “headquarters” controlling planning and purchasing (1997‐1999) while maintaining the distance from provision; and the district health board system currently under development (1999‐) which sees purchasing and planning sent home again to regions and linked closely with service provision. The present system entails the devolution of considerable responsibility to the local level, within a framework of strong central government control. Based on New Zealand’s experience, the article notes that all but the market structure appear to have provided an adequate environment for effective health care planning and purchasing.
Copper electroplating technology for microvia filling
Authors: Lefebvre Mark , Allardyce George , Seita Masaru , Tsuchida Hideki , Kusaka Masaru , Hayashi Shinjiro
Published: January 2003

This paper describes a copper electroplating enabling technology for filling microvias. Driven by the need for faster, smaller and higher performance communication and electronic devices, sequential build up (SBU) technology has been adopted as a viable multilayer printed circuit manufacturing technology. Increased wiring density, reduced line widths, smaller through‐holes and microvias are all attributes of these high density interconnect (HDI) packages. Filling the microvias with conductive material allows the use of stacked vias and via in pad designs. Other potential design attributes include thermal management enhancement and benefits for high frequency circuitry. Electrodeposited copper can be utilized for filling microvias and provides potential advantages over alternative via plugging techniques. The features, development, scale up and results of direct current (DC) and periodic pulse reverse (PPR) acid copper via filling processes, including chemistry and equipment, are described.
Evaluation of an enhanced oxidation method for the destruction of ethylene diamine tetra‐acetic acid (EDTA) and related compounds in aqueous solution
Authors: Bains Narinder , Goosey Martin , Hayer Runveer
Published: January 2003

Ethylene diamine tetra‐acetic acid (EDTA) and other chelates are widely employed in the electroless copper plating solutions and related chemistries used in printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing. EDTA in particular, imparts many benefits to these processes but it is also becoming increasingly undesirable from an effluent treatment and environmental perspective. Consequently, there is a need to remove EDTA and similar compounds from effluent produced during the PCB manufacturing process. In this paper, the effectiveness of hydroxyl radicals, generated by a UV/ozone based enhanced oxidation process, in destroying relatively low levels of EDTA and other chelates has been evaluated. The influence of temperature, operating pH and chelate concentration has been investigated. Initial results indicate that a combined UV/ozone based process provides a useful and effective method for conveniently destroying EDTA, its hydroxy ethyl analogue and ethanolamine in aqueous solution.
Interconnect stress testing (IST) – an overview of its development and capabilities
Authors: Stewart Dougal
Published: January 2003

Focuses on the development and capabilities of interconnect stress testing (IST), a stress testing method for printed circuit boards (PCBs) that is fast, repeatable and reproducible. IST technology was originally developed in the mid 1980s. Notes that using IST as an electrical test delivers a capability to remove the human factor from the decision making process of product acceptance or rejection and that the technology is emerging as an important test methodology for the assessment of PCB interconnects. IST has the capability to effectively and rapidly quantify the integrity of plated through holes and the unique ability to identify the presence and levels of post separations within a multilayer board.
Lifelong learning and empowerment: a model in practice
Authors: Hare Catherine , McLeod Julie
Published: January 2003

In July 2000, eight BBC staff graduated from the University of Northumbria at Newcastle with an Advanced Diploma in Lifelong Learning (Records Management). This is the first award in a new and innovative framework aimed at meeting the needs of industry in a flexible way. Explains the model for lifelong learning awards, which focuses on the individual or group of individuals and their specific education and development needs, and evaluates its use as part of a training programme at the BBC. The evaluation, based on the views of the student participants, other BBC staff involved and staff from the university, is overwhelmingly positive. The award has had a significant impact on the roles and responsibilities of the BBC staff as well as the status of records management within the BBC. With the collaboration, support and commitment of all those involved, the model was successful in empowering participants both as learners and records professionals.
Mapping the curriculum in information studies
Authors: Wilson T.D.
Published: January 2003

A model is proposed, based on four “foundation fields” (information content, information systems, people, and organizations) which may assist the process of curriculum development and related activities in library and information studies education. The logical relationships among these areas are discussed and a number of applications of the resulting model are described.
Core competencies in information management education
Authors: Gorman G.E. , Corbitt B.J.
Published: January 2003

Core competencies have long been discussed and developed in the literature of library science education and information systems education. However, for information management, a blending of these two disciplines, there has been much less discussion of core competencies. The purpose of this paper is to consolidate the sparse literature on information management educational competencies and to suggest a set of core competencies and educational outcomes that might be applied to curricula in both developed and developing countries.