bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Export training: a preliminary investigation of Turkish companies
Authors: Haluk Köksal Mehmet
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to identify the companies' export training needs, and also to determine their preferences regarding export training subjects, methods, institutions and trainers.

Design/methodology/approach

The face‐to‐face interview with company managers and owners was carried out with the pre‐tested questionnaire.

Findings

The companies need training in export marketing subjects as well as the technical and practical dimensions of exporting. More active and practical issues and methods rather than traditional ones are preferable for the companies. The companies mostly prefer İGEME (Export Promotion Center of Turkey) as their export training provider. The companies in the research rank export experts as the most preferable type of trainer.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation of the study was that it was carried out on companies operating in Turkey's Aegean Region. Therefore, the findings cannot be generalized to fit all regions.

Originality/value

The literature contains no studies that fully investigate this subject. This research makes a valuable contribution to the recognition of this knowledge gap, experienced equally by developed and developing countries.
The evaluation of fabric treatment by Griff tester and sensory analysis
Authors: Strazdienė E. , Ben Saïd S. , Gutauskas M. , Schacher L. , Adolphe D.C.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The aim of presented investigation was to test developed testing device Griff tester, created for the objective evaluation of textile hand and to compare the obtained data with sensory evaluation results of textiles, subjected to different final treatments.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of two finishing products, i.e. the crease‐resistant finishing Knittex® “K” and the softener macro silicone Ultratex® “Ul” upon 100 per cent cotton plain weave fabric was studied by two methods – objective evaluation and sensory analysis. Objective evaluation was done using Griff tester device where disc shaped specimen was extracted through a rounded hole of the stand. Sensory analysis was performed by the panel of 11 trained persons.

Findings

Investigations have shown that both treatments changed the hand of the fabric in the expected direction. Meantime, two experimental methods (objective and sensory approach) have shown their effectiveness to evaluate the textile touch, respectively.

Practical implications

The obtained results proved that criterion Q can be used for sensitive and vivid detection of differences between fabrics, affected by different final treatment operations. The effects of finishing products' concentrations were found to be in accordance with the manufacturer's technical specifications and with the finishing industrialist's expectations.

Originality/value

Investigation results obtained by Griff tester revealed the possibility of fabric hand evaluation on the basis of one relative criterion Q. These results can be linked with some attribute issued of the sensory analysis applied to the characterisation of the tactile feeling.
The role of prior knowledge in international franchise partner recruitment
Authors: Altinay Levent , Wang Catherine L.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To investigate the role of prior knowledge in the international franchise partner recruitment process and to evaluate how cultural distance influences the role of prior knowledge in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

A single embedded case study of an international hotel firm was the focus of the enquiry. Interviews, observations and document analysis were used as the data collection techniques.

Findings

Findings reveal that prior knowledge of the franchisor enables the franchisor to coordinate more efficiently with prospective partners. However, the case study firm experienced a great deal of cultural distance in different country markets. The greater the cultural distance, the more challenges the firm has to face in terms of upgrading and adapting its prior knowledge to local needs.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are based on a hotel franchise chain, and may not be generalisable to other firms or industry sectors, although the literature on international management does not indicate any substantial differences between hotel firms and other types of organisations. Despite this limitation, the findings shed light on the importance of critically evaluating a firm's prior knowledge in a complex, multinational context.

Practical implications

This paper illuminates the challenges international franchisors face, and highlights the need to adapt their prior knowledge base to the local needs. The findings also reinforce the message that selecting prospective franchisees that are familiar to the franchise business format and willing to adopt the franchise system is crucial to the long‐term success of the franchise system.

Originality/value

This paper cross‐fertilises literature of organisational learning and franchising and evaluates the interplay of prior knowledge, cultural distance and international franchise recruitment. The findings provide further evidence on the mixed influences of prior knowledge on international franchise partner recruitment, and caution firms to critically evaluate their prior knowledge in international expansion. The findings also contribute to the understanding of franchise partner selection and recruitment, and bring in new addition to the body of existing franchising literature which largely examines the operations of the franchise system.
Does role clarity explain employee‐perceived service quality?
Authors: Mukherjee Avinandan , Malhotra Neeru
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Role clarity of frontline staff is critical to their perceptions of service quality in call centres. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of role clarity and its antecedents and consequences on employee‐perceived service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model, based on the job characteristics model and cognitive theories, is proposed. Key antecedents of role clarity considered here are feedback, autonomy, participation, supervisory consideration, and team support; while key consequences are organizational commitment, job satisfaction and service quality. An internal marketing approach is adopted and all variables are measured from the frontline employee's perspective. A structural equation model is developed and tested on a sample of 342 call centre representatives of a major commercial bank in the UK.

Findings

The research reveals that role clarity plays a critical role in explaining employee perceptions of service quality. Further, the research findings indicate that feedback, participation and team support significantly influence role clarity, which in turn influences job satisfaction and organizational commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The research suggests that boundary personnel in service firms should strive for more clarity in perceived role for delivering better service quality. The limitations are in sample availability from in‐house transaction call centres of a single bank.

Originality/value

The contributions of this study are untangling the confusing research evidence on the effect of role clarity on service quality, using service quality as a performance variable as opposed to productivity estimates, adopting an internal marketing approach to understanding the phenomenon, and introducing teamwork along with job‐design and supervisory factors as antecedent to role clarity.
An application‐based classification to understand buyer‐supplier interaction in business services
Authors: Wynstra Finn , Axelsson Björn , van der Valk Wendy
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Most existing classifications of business services have taken the perspective of the supplier as opposed to that of the buyer. To address this imbalance, the purpose of this paper is to propose a classification of business services based on how the buying company applies the service with respect to its own business processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers some specific aspects of the process of buying and exchanging business services, focusing on the everyday production and consumption of services as opposed to the initial purchasing and negotiation phases.

Findings

Earlier literature has developed similar, albeit less elaborate classifications, but does not provide detailed insight into how such classifications are related to differentiated buyer‐supplier interaction. This classification distinguishes between four business service applications; as a component, semi‐manufacture, instrument or consumable. For each of these four types of services, interaction has to achieve different objectives and consequently they differ with regards to required organizational resources in terms of required capabilities and buyer‐supplier interfaces.

Research limitations/implications

Primarily conceptual and exploratory in nature, this paper is intended as a review of existing literature and possible starting point for further empirical validation and theoretical refinement. The paper contends that the differences in application have a significant impact on interaction patterns, but this is not to say that other variables have no impact on buyer‐supplier interaction patterns. Subsequent research should seek to control for those other possible sources of variation.

Practical implications

The overall implication of this classification is that for different services, the buying company should assess how they are applied. Subsequently, it is relevant for firms to consider what functional aspects are crucial and who are likely to become, or who should be involved and to what extent, in the purchasing decision process and in the interactions that take place after the decision has been made.
Critical empirical research in IS: an example of gender and the IT workforce
Authors: Trauth Eileen M. , Howcroft Debra
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This article aims to add to the growing number of critical empirical studies and to reflect on the process of conducting this type of research, thereby addressing the lack of exemplars for those engaged with critical empirical information systems research.

Design/methodology/approach

Applies the critical lens to a multi‐year examination of variation in the career narratives of women in the American IT labor force. While an interpretive epistemology was initially chosen for this research project, over time, analysis of interview data took on an increasingly critical orientation. This, in turn, influenced subsequent fieldwork to become critical in nature.

Findings

One theoretical contribution is highlighting the role of power dynamics in understanding what sits beneath the surface of observations about these women's experiences in the IT workforce. The second theoretical contribution is helping to shift the focus away from predominantly essentialist theories that dichotomize men and women and toward a recognition of the diversity among women in the IT field.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should include additional critical empirical studies of women in the IT field in other countries.

Practical implications

This research project can serve as a useful example for other critical IS researchers about to embark on empirical fieldwork.

Originality/value

This paper provides a concrete illustration of the way in which empirical research is altered as the epistemological lens shifts from interpretivist to critical.
Mitigating stress and burnout by implementing transformational‐leadership
Authors: Gill Amarjit S. , Flaschner Alan B. , Shachar Mickey
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To examine the impact of transformational‐leadership on job stress (JS) and the impact of (JS) on burnout.

Design/methodology/approach

Hospitality industry employees were interviewed regarding the type of leadership used by their managers, the stress they felt due to their jobs, and the degree to which they felt they were “burned out.”

Findings

Degree of perceived burnout is related to degree of perceived stress and degree of perceived stress is related to type of leadership employed by managers.

Practical implications

If employees perceive that their managers are using transformational‐leadership, (JS) is perceived as less than if it is perceived as not being used. Given the costs associated with employee replacement, reduced burnout means a reduction in those costs. And, the social and economic cost to society of treating employees who are “burned out” is reduced.

Originality/value

This paper shows that the relationship between type of leadership, (JS) and burnout is not only the province of “white collar” employees but extends to lower levels in the organizational hierarchy as well. Customer‐contact workers in hotels/motels and restaurants are subject to the same feelings as nurses or other professionals. It may not be the degree of stress that causes burnout. Both higher paid and lower paid workers understand that there is stress associated with their jobs and understand that change, by definition, is stressful; but the methods their managers use to encourage acceptance of change play a large role in how stressful such changes are perceived. The paper also points out how hospitality managers can mitigate stress and burnout of their employees by implementing transformational leadership methods and techniques and the challenges that they might face through this implementation process.
Skills and work in the hospitality sector
Authors: Hai‐yan Kong , Baum Tom
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a picture of the skills profiles, work background, educational attainment, attitudes and plans of the employees in front office in hotels in China by means of a survey of employees in four and five star hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected by means of a questionnaire survey conducted in major tourist cities in China, including Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Jinan, Qingdao and Weihai. In each selected city, four and five star rated hotels were chosen as those properties most likely to be operating in the international market. The survey focused on staff working in front office in four and five star hotels and all questionnaires were collected onsite. A total of 350 questionnaires were distributed and 276 of these returned were usable which form the basis of this analysis of hotel front office work in China.

Findings

Results show that the main workforce strength of front office in Chinese hotels consists of graduates from tourism colleges and professional schools. Front office work is a challenging and demanding area of work and oral communication is identified as the most important skill.

Practical implications

Gathering information about this important area of service and work in the hospitality industry provides first‐hand data for improving training and career development. The paper concludes that high‐quality human resources are lacking in the hospitality sector in China and it is essential for hotels to develop professional development and further training in order to improve the skills of staff in front office.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to look in detail at employees within the hospitality sector in China.
Dynamics of relationship governance in TPL arrangements – a dyadic perspective
Authors: Halldórsson Árni , Skjøtt‐Larsen Tage
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To improve the understanding of the inter‐organizational dynamics of the dyadic relationships between a buyer and provider of logistics services (TPL dyads).

Design/methodology/approach

Analyzes the preparation, implementation, and operation of a particular case of third party logistics (TPL) arrangements. Based on a single case study of a dyadic relationship, the paper confronts the static view of the transaction cost approach and the agency theory on “governance structures” and “contracts” by showing how “relationship governance” emerges and develops over time.

Findings

TPL dyads are subject to both controllable and non‐controllable forces of change, which may not always have a positive effect on the logistics performance or the relationship itself. Inter‐organizational dynamics not only relate to learning, competence development, or adaptation, as suggested by other studies, but also to how the dyadic relationships are governed. As the dyad accumulates experience over time, changes will occur in the balance between the two parties in terms of goal congruence and risk preferences, which has a strong influence on the nature of contracts and other safeguards governing the relationship. Similarly, explanatory power of theories applicable to inter‐organizational settings may vary as relationships emerge and develop over time. Focus on core competencies as the logic of outsourcing is followed by a period characterized by a principal‐agent relationship. To ensure further prosperity of the relationship, the two companies must direct their efforts towards the logic of the network approach.

Originality/value

Contributes to a cross‐disciplinary fertilization of the SCM field, in particular inter‐organizational relationships.
Reverse logistics in the publishing industry: China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan
Authors: Jim Wu Yen‐Chun , Cheng Wei‐Ping
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This paper compares the characteristics of reverse logistics in the publishing industry among China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple‐case approach in combination with EIQ (entry of order, items, and quantity) analysis is selected to allow analytical generalization of the findings.

Findings

The research findings show that the reverse logistics of Chinese publications is still in early stage and is not mature enough to be interconnected in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The reverse logistics cost in these areas is unlikely to be significantly reduced in the near future.

Practical implications

Instead of making effort to process returned goods, logistics firms or publishers may consider discarding the returned goods directly. The loss on material cost is far less than the manpower spent on processing. Also, publishers can sort returned goods in off‐peak season to save cost on reverse logistics.

Originality/value

This research provides the first empirical study by applying EIQ analysis to understand the challenges of reverse logistics in the publishing industry in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, which has been rarely discussed in the past.
Managing product returns for reverse logistics
Authors: Srivastava Samir K. , Srivastava Rajiv K.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a framework to manage product returns for reverse logistics by focusing on estimation of returns for select categories of products in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a conceptual model and thereafter an integrated modeling framework borrowing from existing literature and industry practices. It utilizes product ownership data, average life cycle of products, past sales, forecasted demand and likely impact of environmental policy measures for estimating return flows. Informal interviews with 84 stakeholders are carried out to estimate significant parameters. Software packages, decomposition methods and heuristics are utilized for solution.

Findings

The integrated framework helps in estimating returns for select categories of products and thereafter taking simultaneous decisions on their disposition, location and capacity of facilities and flows of returned products for a given time horizon under various strategic, operational and customer service‐related constraints.

Research limitations/implications

A “push” system where the volumes of returns drive the decisions. Estimations and optimization have been carried out for select product categories and not brands or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). No free choice of facility locations.

Practical implications

The insights and learning under different scenarios may be utilized as inputs for decision making by various stakeholders such as OEMs and their consortia, local remanufacturers and third party service providers.

Originality/value

At methodological level, our framework combines descriptive modeling with optimization technique, while at topological level; it provides detailed solutions for network configuration and design.
A conceptual model for quality of service in the supply chain
Authors: Seth Nitin , Deshmukh S.G. , Vrat Prem
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to propose a model for assessing the quality of service at various interfaces of supply chain using third party logistics.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a rich combination of extensive literature review and insights gained through exploratory interviews, gap analysis methodology is used in developing the model. This was followed by an in‐depth analysis of gaps at various interfaces in supply chain. Further, both qualitative and quantitative techniques are suggested for data collection and analysis.

Findings

The key gaps in both the directions (forward and reverse) that are likely to affect the service quality at different levels are extensively defined. These gaps may exist between a 3PL service provider and the manufacturer, the marketing function and the 3PL service provider, etc. The paper also proposes frameworks such as data envelopment analysis for measurement of these gaps. A set of possible performance indicators is also proposed at various interfaces in supply chain.

Practical implications

This proposed model is an attempt to explore the relatively less explored area. It is expected that this research will further motivate researchers to work in this area. This supply chain service quality tool will be beneficial to practising managers in identification of opportunities for improvements in service quality.

Originality/value

This paper explores some critical issues in the less explored area and offers practical help to researchers and practitioners in providing a direction for supply chain service quality improvement.
Advancing women and leadership in this post feminist, post EEO era
Authors: Noble Carolyn , Moore Sharon
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This discussion asks why women leaders are, at the beginning of the twenty‐first century, as scarce in the corporate boardrooms and university corridors as they were 30 years ago. After nearly three decades of legislative and organisational support for more gender equity and inclusive management practices, the illusive glass ceiling still remains an issue for management policy debate.

Design/methodology/approach

In this discussion the culture of work in the new economy is discussed.

Findings

It seems that the feminist approach calling for equity in public life has lost its currency as new management restructures and workplace changes are again “gender inflicted”.

Originality/value

In the final analysis more research is required where successful women leaders are positioned centre stage so that they stay in the mainstream of paid work and public life, not in the margins.
Preparing for bushfires: understanding intentions
Authors: Paton Douglas , Kelly Gail , Burgelt Petra T. , Doherty Michael
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To examine the relationship between behavioural intentions and preparing for bushfire hazards and to test the hypothesis that intentions can inform how people reason about their relationship with environmental hazards.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from 280 residents in high bushfire risk areas and analysed using multiple regression analysis. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a theoretical sample drawn from those who completed the survey. Data were analysed using grounded theory analysis strategies using the ATLAS.ti data analysis programme following the procedures for open, axial, and selective coding.

Findings

The analyses demonstrated that preparedness intentions reflect the outcomes of different ways of reasoning about their relationship with bushfire hazards and that “preparing” and “not preparing” represent discrete processes. Each outcome was supported by different attitudes towards preparing and by different predictor variables.

Research limitations/implications

Preparing and not preparing for natural hazards should be conceptualised as separate processes and additional research into their origins and precursors is required.

Practical implications

Separate risk communication strategies are needed to counter reasons for “not preparing” and facilitate “preparing”. Strategies should accommodate the attitudes and beliefs that underpin these outcomes. To facilitate sustained preparedness, strategies should assist people to negotiate issues required to arrive at a decision to adopt protective measures.

Originality/value

Provides novel insights into the relationship between people and natural hazards. It identifies a need to re‐think how risk communication strategies are developed and delivered.
Himalayan population at earthquake risk
Authors: Gupta Ila , Sinvhal Amita , Shankar R.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Seeks to examine risk assessment of human settlements due to seismo‐tectonic setting of a populated area in the Himalayas, so that mitigation measures may be taken before the next earthquake takes its toll.

Design/methodology/approach

Keeping in view the seismic vulnerability of the Himalayan ranges, an earthquake scenario is considered for the Narendranagar block of Tehri Garhwal District which lies in Seismic Zone IV of the seismic zoning map of India (BIS, 1893‐2002). Damage of MSK Intensity VIII and peak accelerations of 0.25 g are expected here at any time. The hypothetical epicenter is placed near Tapowan at 30°08′10″N and 78° 20′30″E on the crest of the meandering River Ganga, where three large thrusts, viz. Garhwal, Tons Nayar and Krol, congregate. Iso‐acceleration contours plotted for the entire Narendranagar block for earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 and 7.5 are elongated along the main boundary fault.

Findings

Almost 59 percent population of the Narendranagar block was found to be vulnerable to damage associated with higher accelerations of 0.41 g.

Research limitations/implications

The topographic effects influencing the risk of settlements have not been taken into account.

Practical implications

Implications of such an earthquake on housing stock; roads; infrastructure; awareness and time of occurrence are discussed. Strategies are suggested for long‐term earthquake preparedness and short‐term action plan for emergency management.

Originality/value

The methodology evolved can be extended for other Himalayan regions.
Community tobacco use prevention coalitions: director and staff opinions
Authors: Campbell Catherine , Carver Vivien , Reinert Bonita , Range Lillian M. , Hollimon Matthew T.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to assess whether differences occurred between directors and staff in community tobacco use prevention coalitions in Mississippi. Community coalitions, which are organizations working together for a common purpose involve representatives of diverse institutions focusing on issues in a local community. Because of their different roles, directors and support staff may view their coalition differently.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty directors and 14 support staff of tobacco use prevention coalitions anonymously answered a lengthy questionnaire about their coalition personnel and functioning.

Findings

Both coalition directors and support staff agreed that their coalition had formal rules and effective management, reduced tobacco use, and benefited their region. In addition, directors and support staff reported high ownership, and positive opinions of member and personnel expertise. Further, directors and support staff favored taking tobacco industry money for themselves or their coalition. However, directors and support staff were neutral in satisfaction and in difficulty managing their coalition, and slightly negative in ratings of member‐member and member‐personnel communication, directors more negative than support staff on member‐personnel communication.

Practical implications

Strengthening communication seems to be a place where there is room for improvement in the present tobacco use prevention coalitions.

Originality/value

Presently, those actually working in a tobacco use prevention coalition were still idealistic about their efforts, but continued frustrations with communication may dampen their enthusiasm in the future.
Brands, artifacts and design theory: a call to action
Authors: Ewing Michael T.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to emphasize the value of design theory in brand research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a theoretical essay with illustrative examples.

Findings

The paper finds that the use of brand theory should not be restricted to explanation and prediction. It also finds that brand researchers should also develop theory that can help prescribe and design action.

Practical implications

The paper broadens the scope of theory in brand research.

Originality/value

The paper points out that the absence of theoretical logic, by definition, precludes theory advancement. It provides a fresh “theoretical lens” for brand researchers.
Cognitive, affective attributes and conative, behavioural responses in retail corporate branding
Authors: Vinhas Da Silva Rui , Faridah Syed Alwi Sharifah
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The main aim of the present study is to empirically test a model of antecedents and consequences of corporate brand image (CBI) in two book retailers, one selling exclusively online, and the other selling exclusively offline in a British context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a survey to investigate the relationships of the antecedents and consequences of the CBI. The sample (n=511) comprised experienced customers of these two bookstores (visitors and shoppers of the site or bookstore). The antecedents of CBI which were the functional aspects of brand attributes (such as ease of use, secured web site, interactivity/building relationship, customer care and reliability) were combined with the CBI itself (emotional aspects of the corporate brand or personality traits of the company) and, further, the consequences of these emotional aspects such as customer satisfaction and loyalty were tested using a cross‐sectional study.

Findings

Using two separate structural equation models, the study found an empirical relationship between the brand attributes and the corporate brand image (the emotional values). This relationship in turn influences the customer's responses (loyalty).

Research limitations/implications

By combining two methodological approaches of brand image evaluation: cognition (assessed through tangible and intangible brand attributes) and affect/emotion (assessed through brand personality scale) this study intends to add to the current understanding of consumer brand knowledge, in particular when the consumer is assessing a company's brand image (the CBI) and also learn how important the effect of cognitive attributes (such as brand attributes of a store and web site) is in explaining the subsequent CBI, and the integration effect on consumer responses such as brand loyalty. Do cognitive evaluations drive conative, behavioural actions in retail buying decision making? Are cognitive evaluations directly related with satisfaction with the retailer and consumer loyalty?

Practical implications

Explicitly, the present study offers practitioners a research framework, aimed at guiding them as to how they could understand their defined or desired brand values (the corporate core values) among their consumers.

Originality/value

In general, the present study adds to the existing literature in cognitive and affective attributes in consumer judgement and corresponding conative or behavioural attitudes in branding and reputation management. It brings together the concept of functional brand attributes, emotional brand attributes (the CBI), and the dependent variables such as customer satisfaction and loyalty in a unique context (internet), and compares this with the bricks and mortar context.
Wowing the millennials: creating brand equity in the wine industry
Authors: Nowak Linda , Thach Liz , Olsen Janeen E.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the attitudes of millennial wine consumers and determine if positive affect in tasting room situations leads to higher levels of brand equity for the winery.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was developed to evaluate winery tasting room experiences based on standardized brand measurement scales. In total 80 millennials visited tasting rooms and then completed the survey to evaluate their experience.

Findings

The results of this research empirically support the anecdotal evidence that, through positive emotions associated with the tasting room experiences, wineries can cultivate relationships with millennial customers that may lead to long‐term, profitable relationships through continued patronage and brand loyalty.

Originality/value

Practical application of this study suggests that carefully orchestrating a tasting room experience to create a positive experience for the millennial customer appears to be a critical component of post‐purchase attitudes and building brand equity. In addition, customer commitment, product quality, service quality, and fair pricing are also significant predictors of brand equity.
GridShib and PERMIS integration
Authors: Chadwick D.W. , Novikov A. , Otenko A.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the results of a recent GridShibPERMIS project whose purpose was to provide policy‐driven role‐based access control decision‐making to grid jobs, in which the user's attributes are provided by an external Shibboleth Identity Provider (IdP).

Design/methodology/approach

This was achieved by integrating the identity‐federation and attribute‐assignment functions of Shibboleth and the policy‐based enforcement functions of PERMIS with the Grid job management functions of Globus Toolkit v4.

Findings

Combining the three technologies proved to be relatively easy due to the Policy Information Point (PIP) and Policy Decision Point (PDP) Java interfaces recently introduced into Globus Toolkit v4.

Practical implications

However, a number of limitations in the current Grid‐Shib implementation were revealed, namely: the lack of support for pseudonymous access to grid resources; scalability problems because only one issuer scope domain is supported and because name mappings have to be provided for each grid user; and the inability to collect a user's attributes from multiple IdPs for use in authorisation decision‐making.

Originality/value

This paper provides an overview of and describes the benefits of the three technologies (GT4, Shibboleth and PERMIS), shows how they may be combined to good effect via GT4's java interfaces, describes the limitations of the current GridShib implementation and suggests possible solutions and additional research that are needed in the future in order to address the current shortcomings.
Cataloging for the masses
Authors: Fox Robert
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore methods for opening up web content to automated classification using metadata, potentially in the context of library groupware or portals.

Design/methodology/approach

Examines various web sites and meta‐searching tools which provides a new means of access for users, and allow users to better document and integrate their research findings.

Findings

This paper is exploratory in nature and highlights trends in the area of library groupware, link routing, and personalized metadata usage.

Practical implications

The vast wealth of information on the web today needs to be exploited by information specialists (librarians) by assisting patrons in organizing, sharing and syndicating content from nearly any information source and empowering patrons via the use of “folksonomies” which are grass roots taxonomies, in conjunction with traditional controlled vocabularies.

Originality/value

In highlighting the as of yet untapped power of technologies such as openURL and link routing, digital librarians can assist patrons by providing services against traditional and non traditional information sources allowing resources to be organized and shared in order to increase utility. This paper examines innovative means by which this could be accomplished.
Towards accessibility to digital cultural materials: a FRBRized approach
Authors: Weng Cathy , Mi Jia
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the key components of building good digital collections.

Design/methodology/approach

Different categories of digital collections based on guidelines defined by the authors are presented. Issues related to public access are illustrated. A model using the FRBR entities relationships is proposed to improve the accessibility of digital cultural materials so that scholarly research can be enhanced. The number of digital collections has been increased significantly since the late 1990s, but few studies investigated how these collections were organized and managed. To attain an understanding of the current status of institutional digital collections, various collection sites were examined and analyzed. The study focused on the existence and level of richness of bibliographic descriptions provided for each image; whether a search engine was available or not; how easily the search could be performed; and how search results were organized. The presentation of search results is problematic. Applying the IFLA FRBR model to digital materials can bring a solution.

Findings

The IFLA FRBR model presents the search results hierarchically so that related materials can be easily collocated. This feature meets the end‐users needs. The attributes of work and expression entities presented in the IFLA FRBR model should be applied differently for event‐based digital cultural materials. Defining work‐ or expression‐level entities under the event or theme will be more logical than under author and/or title for cultural materials. Doing expression‐level cataloging might also work for this type of materials.

Originality/value

Before building a digital collection, institutions should have a well‐thought‐out and well‐planned collection management mechanism. Metadata scheme, content standards and content management system are important fundamentals. Much can be done to improve the accessibility of digital collections. The proposed FRBRized approach will make the retrieval of digital cultural objects easier.
The value of participation in virtual consumer communities on brand loyalty
Authors: Shang Rong‐An , Chen Yu‐Chen , Liao Hsueh‐Jung
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To examine the effects of consumers' lurking and posting behaviors in virtual consumer communities on specific brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey of a virtual community of Apple computer users was conducted to test a model of involvement, participation, loyalty, trust, and attitudes toward the brand exist in messages within the community.

Findings

The causes and effects of lurking and posting differed. Lurking contributed to brand loyalty more than posting did, and the primary purpose of lurking was to look for information regarding product function/performance, instead of satisfying consumers' affective needs.

Research limitations/implications

As a result of the limitations in a computer mediated communication environment, virtual consumer communities should be perceived as an arena for weak‐tied strangers to communicate for word‐of‐mouth (WOM) behavior, rather than as a brand community.

Practical implications

Although negative messages in a community can hurt brand image, companies should encourage the establishment of communities about their products and encourage consumers to participate in them.

Originality/value

Although the importance of virtual communities has been recognized, few studies have been done to examine the business value of consumer communities. Based on perspectives of brand community and WOM behavior, this paper contributes to virtual community and marketing research by clarifying the effects of consumers' lurking and posting behaviors in a consumer community on brand loyalty.
Beyond constructivism: navigationism in the knowledge era
Authors: Brown Tom H.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to discuss past and present paradigm shifts in education and then to explore possible future learning paradigms in the light of the knowledge explosion in the knowledge era that is currently being entered.

Design/methodology/approach

New learning paradigms and paradigm shifts are explored.

Findings

Learning processes and learning paradigms are still very much founded in a content‐driven and knowledge production paradigm. The rapid developments in information and communication technologies already have and will continue to have a profound impact on information processing, knowledge production and learning paradigms. One needs to acknowledge the increasing role and impact of technology on education and training. One has already experienced enormous challenges in coping with the current overflow of available information. It is difficult to imagine what it will be like when the knowledge economy is in its prime.

Practical implications

Institutions should move away from providing content per se to learners. It is necessary to focus on how to enable learners to find, identify, manipulate and evaluate information and knowledge, to integrate this knowledge in their world of work and life, to solve problems and to communicate this knowledge to others. Teachers and trainers should become coaches and mentors within the knowledge era – the source of how to navigate in the ocean of available information and knowledge – and learners should acquire navigating skills for a navigationist learning paradigm.

Originality/value

This paper stimulates out‐of‐the‐box thinking about current learning paradigms and educational and training practices. It provides a basis to identify the impact of the new knowledge economy on the way one deals with information and knowledge and how one deals with learning content and content production. It emphasizes that the focus should not be on the creation of knowledge per se, but on how to navigate in the ocean of available knowledge and information. It urges readers to anticipate the on future and to explore alternative and appropriate learning paradigms.
The value(s) of editorial peer review
Authors: Gonzalez Maria E.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To explore the status, interests, and intentions of peer reviewers and how editors enlist and muster these factors to enhance the prestige of a scholarly publication.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study: use of a 30‐year accumulation of editorial office records of one scholarly journal to analyze the contents of peer review comments and correspondence; direct quotes highlight key themes.

Findings

Peer reviewers labor to obtain more than the certification, authentication, and quality of individual works. The volume and variety of commentary generated by a double‐blind peer review process reveal concerns behind reviewer comments to authors and effects over time.

Research limitations/implications

The study centers on one journal, Libraries & Culture, a publication committed to the specialized, interdisciplinary research about the history of libraries and the collection of cultural records.

Originality/value

The strategic nature of the administration and management of the invisible work of peer reviewers becomes more apparent. The interests and intentions of peer reviewers surface in commentary intended only for authors. Commentary relates to a variety of themes including personal interests, pedagogical and disciplinary objectives, field expansion agendas as well as the prestige of the publication. These themes suggest peer review as a potentially effective guiding mechanism for long‐term endeavors that benefit author, reviewer, and editor as interrelated players in arenas where distinction is at stake.
How to combat a culture of excuses and promote accountability
Authors: Grimshaw Jeff , Baron Gregg , Mike Barry , Edwards Neill
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The authors offer a leaders' guide to assess accountability problems, “take away excuses,” and promote a culture of accountability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors believe that attribution error and bias influences much of the existing business literature and conventional wisdom around accountability, which focuses almost exclusively on individual responsibility and character. Under‐emphasized or ignored is the way that informal company practices and habits contribute to the widespread problem that employees are not doing what leadership needs and expects them to do.

Findings

The authors developed a predictive accountability model that asserts that most people in organizations will be accountable – that is, they will do what is needed and expected – if four factors are present: expectations are clear to employees; employees perceive that those expectations are credible and reasonable; employees anticipate that positive consequences will follow performance; and employees anticipate that negative consequences will follow poor performance.

Practical implications

Managing accountability is a process for which leaders have responsibility. Toward that end, the authors' experience has shown the culture of accountability model to be a highly reliable tool capable of diagnosing a wide variety of accountability problems.

Originality/value

The authors offer a program for diagnosing and addressing existing accountability problems and for preventing such problems from becoming endemic.
The golden spur: innovation independence
Authors: Välikangas Liisa , Jett Quintus
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The authors argue that the “freedom to explore” factor is essential to innovation. And innovation is essential to sustained competitiveness. Today's leadership challenge is learning to manage the independent thinkers who refuse the constraints of professionalism and instead innovate on their own terms – in other words, as amateurs.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors believe that only amateurs can move from field to field, finding creativity in the convergence of technology and the combinatorial possibilities found when crossing different industries and professional specialties.

Findings

At a leading nationwide retailer, a group of people has formed an initiative to create a market place of ideas and talent. Anyone can pitch a project and invite others to join it. The hypothesis is that such an avenue for ideas and commitment will increase productivity and address an endemic scarcity of resources. This freedom is facilitated by communications technologies that enable individuals to participate increasingly on their own terms.

Practical implications

Companies need to unleash their human talent and raise their level of innovation so that they can compete globally. To accomplish this, managers must respect their employees' independence – the very source of innovation.

Originality/value

The authors argue that the case for innovation is the case for the labor of love, that is, the work of passionate amateurs.