bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and characterization of MEMS based micrograsping system
Authors: Ahmed Bazaz Shafaat , Abbas Nayyer , Bilal Saif Muhammad , Ahmad Nisar
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This paper aims to present design and characterization of a micrograsping system which is capable of safely grasping micro‐objects.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed micrograsping system consists of novel MEMS based microgripper integrated with capacitive contact sensor (fabricated in standard micromachining process SOI‐MUMPs), sense electronics, a controller, high voltage actuation circuit and graphical user interface.

Findings

Due to the improvement in the lateral comb‐drive design, the actuator requires low actuation voltages in the range of 0‐45 V. This requires a simple and low power actuation circuitry. Capacitive feedback control mechanism is used in the sensor to detect the contact between the jaws and micro‐object while providing high values of the capacitance.

Practical implications

The designed sense electronics can sense the capacitance ranging from 0‐330 fF. Due to the availability of integrated contact sensor, objects ranging from 54 μm to 70 μm can be gripped safely with the applied maximum force of 220 μN at the tip of the gripper.

Originality/value

The performance of the microgripper, controller algorithm and associated electronics were experimentally quantified through the gripping of 65 μm sized human hair.
Looking into the future: Hofstede long term orientation versus GLOBE future orientation
Authors: Venaik Sunil , Zhu Yunxia , Brewer Paul
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically examine, theoretically and empirically, the two time orientation dimensions – long‐term orientation (LTO) and future orientation (FO) – in the national culture models of Hofstede and GLOBE, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

Following Kluckhohn and Strodtbeck's past‐present‐future theoretical lens, the Hofstede LTO and GLOBE FO measures are analysed to understand the conceptual domain covered by these two dimensions. Next, the authors empirically examine the relationship of Hofstede LTO and GLOBE FO with secondary data from Hofstede, GLOBE, and the World Values Survey.

Findings

This paper shows that Hofstede LTO and GLOBE FO dimensions capture different aspects of time orientation of societies. In particular, Hofstede LTO focuses on past (tradition) versus future (thrift) aspect of societies, GLOBE FO practices capture the present versus future (planning) practices of societies, and GLOBE FO values reflect societal aspirations and preferences for planning.

Research limitations/implications

A specific implication of these findings is that the three dimensions of time orientation are not interchangeable since they represent different characteristics of societies. A wider implication for researchers is to ensure high level of precision in and congruence among construct labels, definitions and measures to avoid confusion and misapplication of cross‐cultural concepts.

Practical implications

In an increasingly globalized world, a clear understanding of societal time orientation will help managers deal more effectively with their counterparts in other countries.

Originality/value

The key contribution of this paper is in identifying and clarifying, both theoretically and empirically, the anomalies in the labels, definitions and measurement of Hofstede long‐term orientation and GLOBE future orientation national culture dimensions. It also shows a useful way forward for researchers on how to use these national culture dimensions to explain other phenomena of interest to cross‐cultural scholars.
A comparative study of UK and Taiwanese chemical plant managers
Authors: Vickers David
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the competencies of managers in the UK and Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative analysis of managers using a behavioural event interviewing (BEI) technique.

Findings

Both cultures were highly achievement focussed. However, there were several marked differences in other behaviours which appear to be cultural in nature. UK managers demonstrated more interpersonal awareness, and concern for impact, whereas Taiwanese managers were more likely to demonstrate critical information seeking behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

Interviews in some instances failed to uncover data and this has implications for the use of generic behavioural event interviews internationally.

Practical implications

The research suggests the idea of organisations' employing generic “international” competency models and behavioural event interview techniques is problematic.

Originality/value

The research is able to demonstrate the problems with international competency models through unique access to an organisation's competency model and to managers in two locations.
External learning activities and employee creativity in Chinese R&D teams
Authors: Liu Songbo , Schuler Randall S. , Zhang Pengcheng
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine team external learning, particularly focusing on: how leader external learning behavior affects team external learning; how team external learning influences employee creativity; and whether team internal learning is a moderator between the cross‐level relationship of external learning and employee creativity in Chinese R&D teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaire were administered to a sample of 80 R&D teams comprising 331 employees from three medium‐sized Chinese high‐tech companies. HLM was used to test cross‐level relationships.

Findings

The paper hypothesizes that: leader external learning positively influences team external learning; team external learning leads to employee creativity; and team internal learning moderates the relationship between team external learning and employee creativity. Results support hypotheses 2 and 3, but not hypothesis 1. In addition, leader external learning is found to positively influence employee creativity.

Practical implications

This study has implications for both team leaders and top management. Although the context of this study is in Chinese R&D teams, all those teams facing similar environment to R&D teams can also learn from this study. There are several interesting implications for scholars who are studying teams, creativity and innovation.

Originality/value

Combining fields of team learning, boundary spanning, creativity and leadership, the paper addresses the following four questions, and provides further insights to the area of team external learning: First, what is the cross level relationship between team external learning and employee creativity? Second, is internal learning a moderator on the relationship between team external learning and employee creativity in R&D project teams? Third, is leader external learning behavior one of antecedents of team external learning? Fourth, is there anything unique about team external learning in Chinese culture? The paper provides research evidence for each of these questions.
Generation or culture?
Authors: Susaeta Lourdes , Ramón Pin José , Idrovo Sandra , Espejo Alvaro , Belizón Maria , Gallifa Angela , Aguirre Marisa , Avila Pedrozo Eugenio
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the subject of work attitude drivers within the current scenario considering two influencing factors, culture and generation. Both membership of a particular generation and membership of a particular culture can affect individuals' work attitudes. The study considers these two factors in order to analyse five dimensions that are sources of work attitudes: life project, professional ethics, and attitude towards authority, leadership and commitment to the company.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon a sample of almost one thousand people from various Ibero‐American countries, the results show significant differences between generations and cultures, particularly when focusing on the life project.

Findings

Among its conclusions, the paper points out that Latin America cannot be viewed as a homogenous whole in terms of individual work attitude. On the contrary, it is characterised by a significant degree of national diversity and managers should take this into account when designing initiatives to improve employee motivation.

Originality/value

The contribution that this paper seeks to make is to include the cross‐cultural perspective in the study of attitudes towards work, which has received less attention in previous studies.
A dynamic portfolio theory model based on minimum semi‐absolute deviations criterion with an application in the Chinese stock markets
Authors: Chen Li , Pan Heping
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to prove the effectiveness of minimum semi‐absolute deviations (MSAD) method in dynamic portfolio investment.

Design/methodology/approach

In financial investment, the classical static portfolio theory of Markowitz type lacks the dynamic adaptability to the changing market situations. This paper proposes a dynamic portfolio theory which uses MSAD criterion on a moving window to replace the Markowitz mean‐variance analysis.

Findings

Two specific models are developed to test the validity of the MSAD method: the first model constructs a portfolio consisting of Shanghai‐Shenzhen 300 Index and a national debt as two contrarian assets; the second model constructs a portfolio consisting of a complete set of 18 Chinese stock sector indices and a national debt. The empirical results of the test using six‐year monthly data (2005 to 2010) provide significant evidence that the MSAD method is valid, producing superior returns of investment over the stock index during the test period.

Research limitations/implications

The findings in this study clearly highlight the validity of the MSAD method in determining the weights of assets in Chinese stock markets.

Practical implications

In order to resolve the problem of portfolio investment in Chinese stock markets, the MSAD method with stop loss control strategy can be used for investors to obtain the weights of assets and control the risk.

Originality/value

This study analyzes and verifies the effectiveness of the MSAD method in dynamic portfolio investment. The stop loss control strategy designed and used in the MSAD method is a pioneering and exploratory experiment.
Innovative ICT‐mediated activities for people, profit and planet
Authors: Hasan Helen , Meloche Joseph
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Solutions to complex environmental problems rely on the innovative knowledge and expertise of many professions whose members accept their responsibilities towards the environment. The study described here canvases information systems (IS) professionals for their perspectives, knowledge and expertise within the domains of Green IT and Green IS.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a review of the Green IT and IS literature, two topics were identified for a Q‐study conducted among IS professionals: topic 1 focussed on which technologies, systems and applications offer the greatest opportunity in solving environmental problems, and topic 2 on what sets of issues affect these green opportunities. Activity Theory was used to interpret the factors emerging from the Q‐study.

Findings

Three categories of activities were identified in topic 1 involving ICT support for “teleworking and teleconferencing”, “monitoring, optimising, and modelling” and “influencing human understanding and behaviour”. The topic 2 responses were quite varied.

Research limitations/implications

A Q‐study is both subjective and exploratory, not seeking consensus but rather the breadth of opinion on a topic. The findings of topic 1 indicate three directions for future research and topic 2 identified many issues to consider in pursuing Green outcomes.

Practical implications

The three topic 1 categories of activities identify practical “green” applications of ICT.

Social implications

The varied issues identified from topic 2 reveal the interconnection of environmental projects with economic and social issues.

Originality/value

Following this study of IS professional the authors call on other professions to apply the expertise of their respective fields to the environmental cause.
Innovative employee behaviour
Authors: Bysted Rune
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Organizational performance is positively affected by employees’ innovative behaviour, but recent studies indicate that innovative work behaviour may have negative performance consequences. Negative tensions may arise due to employees’ different views on innovation, and efficiency may be reduced because of high job autonomy in innovative job settings. This study aims to examine how job satisfaction and mental involvement via moderation effects increase the effectiveness of innovative work behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was developed and tested on panel sample data representing 294 employees in a Danish financial company. The response rate on the survey was 93 per cent. The data was analysed via confirmatory factor analysis and hierarchical regression models.

Findings

This study shows that job satisfaction and innovative work behaviour can be aligned in environments characterized by innovation trust. Further mental involvement is identified as a component increasing innovative work behaviour in situations without the opportunity for monitoring.

Practical implications

From a managerial perspective: the alignment of job satisfaction and innovative behaviour is central, as this joint optimization affects organizational performance positively.

Originality/value

This study reports one of a very limited number of studies focusing on the negative effects of innovative work behaviour. This study demonstrates that innovation trust aligns job satisfaction and innovative work behaviour, and further that mental involvement increases the efficiency of job autonomy.
Effects of the scalar parameters in the Suzen‐Huang model on plasma actuator characteristics
Authors: Halimi Bin Ibrahim Imran , Skote Martin
Published: July 2013

Purpose

For the past decade, plasma actuators have been identified as a subset in the realm of active flow control devices. As research into plasma actuators continues to mature, computational modelling is needed to complement the investigation of the actuators. This paper seeks to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the Suzen‐Huang model is chosen because of its ability to simulate both the charge density and Lorentz body force. Its advantages and limitations have been identified with a parametric study of two constants used in the modelling: the Debye length (λD) and the maximum charge density value (ρc* ). By varying the two scalars, the effects of charge density, body force and induced velocity are examined.

Findings

The results show that the non‐dimensionalised body force (Fb*) is nonlinearly dependent on Debye length. However, a linear variation of Fb* is observed with increasing values of maximum charge density. The optimized form of the Suzen‐Huang model shows better agreement in the horizontal velocity profile but still points to inaccuracy when compared to vertical velocity profile.

Originality/value

The results indicate that the body force still has to be modelled more extensively above the encapsulated electrode, so that the horizontal and vertical components of induced velocities are accurately obtained.
Homotopy analysis method for space‐time fractional differential equations
Authors: Zhang Xindong , Wei Leilei , Tang Bo , He Yinnian
Published: July 2013

Purpose

In this article, the authors aim to present the homotopy analysis method (HAM) for obtaining the approximate solutions of space‐time fractional differential equations with initial conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The series solution is developed and the recurrence relations are given explicitly. The initial approximation can be determined by imposing the initial conditions.

Findings

The comparison of the HAM results with the exact solutions is made; the results reveal that the HAM is very effective and simple. The HAM contains the auxiliary parameter h, which provides a simple way to adjust and control the convergence region of series solution. Numerical examples demonstrate the effect of changing homotopy auxiliary parameter h on the convergence of the approximate solution. Also, they illustrate the effect of the fractional derivative orders a and b on the solution behavior.

Originality/value

The idea can be used to find the numerical solutions of other fractional differential equations.
A spatially adaptive grid refinement scheme for the finite element solution of a second order obstacle problem
Authors: Iqbal S. , Javed A. , Ansari A.R. , Siddiqui A.M.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The authors' objective in this paper is to find the numerical solutions of obstacle, unilateral and contact second‐order boundary‐value problems.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this, the authors formulate a spatially adaptive grid refinement scheme following Galerkin's finite element method based on a weighted‐residual. A residual based a‐posteriori error estimation scheme has been utilized for checking the approximate solutions for various finite element grids. The local element balance has been considered as an error assessment criterion. The approach utilizes piece‐wise linear approximations utilizing linear Langrange polynomials. Numerical experiments indicate that local errors are large in regions where the gradients are large.

Findings

A comparison of the spatially adaptive grid refinement with that of uniform meshing for second order obstacle boundary value problems confirms the superiority of the scheme without increasing the number of unknown coefficients.

Originality/value

The authors believe the work has merit not only in terms of the approach but also of the problem solved in the paper.
HR at the heart of SME performance: an interview with Dr Jill Miller, Research Adviser, CIPD
Authors: by Gareth Bell Interview
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an interview with Jill Miller, author of the recent CIPD study, “Achieving sustainable organization performance through HR in SMEs”.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an interview.

Findings

The interview discusses the findings of this study, and offers practical insights for both SME owners/founders and HR practitioners working within SMEs.

Originality/value

This article outlines the key “inflection points” which occur along the SME growth journey, and makes recommendations on how to be prepared to overcome them. It links to a practical tool developed by the author to aid the understanding of where an SME is situated on the growth journey, making it possible to anticipate the inflection points before they occur.
A Six Sigma based risk management framework for handling undesired effects associated with delays in project completion
Authors: Usman Tariq Muhammad
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a risk management framework, combined with Six Sigma tool and techniques, to help handle the undesired effects that can occur during the project execution. There exist various risk management methodologies but none of them provide an efficient framework and tools to handle undesired effects. In this paper, the goal is to assist practitioners in management of risks.

Design/methodology/approach

The author defines a new risk management framework on the basis of critical review of previous research applied in the industry related to different manufacturing, construction, HR, Marketing, IT and other domains. The strengths and weaknesses of these methods have been compared through empirical analysis based on real‐life case studies.

Findings

An enhanced framework is developed for handling, management and analysis of risk associated with the projects. An extended model is presented by combining the previous risk management methodologies with Six Sigma methodologies, in order to achieve both improvement and minimization of risks simultaneously. The risk management framework defined in project management lacks compatibility and enhancement with the handling in real‐time projects. By combining a number of methodologies, after critical study of related frameworks, it has been possible to devise a framework which has proved to be beneficial.

Research limitations/implications

The model defined in the paper is based on implementation and approvals from the management and takes time for implementation of Six Sigma. Currently the enhanced model is implemented in a single process in a real‐time industry to validate the model. A through study and knowledge of processes with data is required in order to implement the model.

Social implications

The proposed model achieves higher organizational performance by motivation and training of its employees handling large‐scale projects. This has increased the knowledge of persons by minimizing the barrier to change management; hence, achieving organizational excellence and project management with ease.

Originality/value

The methodology will help organizations, especially in the manufacturing industry, to minimize the risks in both pre‐execution and post‐execution of projects. It enables overall improvement of organization with total product management, root cause analysis, project management knowledge areas and combination of Six Sigma tools. It also makes the knowledge management concept possible within the framework, to maintain the flow of knowledge throughout the organization. It has decreased dependency on a single person and promotes team management concepts with shared work values.
A case of implementing SPC in a pulp mill
Authors: Rantamäki Jukka , Tiainen Eeva‐Liisa , Kässi Tuomo
Published: July 2013

Purpose

A control chart is a widely used Six Sigma DMAIC process measure and control phase tool. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the body of knowledge on applying statistical process control (SPC) methods in a pulp mill production organization and the special issues that need to be considered in this context.

Design/methodology/approach

The method for obtaining the results was action research, where the researcher actively participated in implementing changes in organization. Procedures to detect and further handle the deviations in a pulp mill organization were created and implemented. A cause and effect diagram used in finding causes and storing the accumulated knowledge was modified to make it applicable to this environment.

Findings

Factors for successful SPC implementation were found to be in line with earlier findings in other industries. SPC can act as a means of organizational learning in the pulp and paper industry. Specific problems in the pulp and paper industry concerning the use of SPC were the autocorrelation of data, excessive measurement variation, and limited process knowledge. The effectiveness of SPC in a pulp mill was shown both in the decreasing amount of deviations and in the positive opinions of the employees.

Research limitations/implications

Findings are generated from a single case, so general applicability is limited.

Practical implications

This case study can be used as a benchmark by other practitioners in the industry.

Originality/value

This article provides new knowledge in the context of implementing SPC in a pulp and paper manufacturing organization.
Modelling lean and green: a review from business models
Authors: Duarte Susana , Cruz‐Machado V.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how different business models, embodied in awards, standards and frameworks, can contribute to modelling a lean and green approach for an organization and its supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 12 business models were studied. A literature review was conducted to provide a comprehensive understanding of each model. After defining lean and green management paradigms, a number of guidelines were developed to connect and integrate lean and green principles.

Findings

The study reveals a number of categories that are common in most business models, providing adequate conditions for a lean‐green transformation. The guidelines were developed to model a lean‐green organization by applying specific principles and tools of a lean and green culture.

Research limitations/implications

The relationships identified within and between models reflect a partial view of a lean‐green transformation. The approach adopted merges the different principles, and tends to emphasize similarities and minimize differences.

Practical implications

The proposed model can be the basis for further research in lean and green paradigms, contributing to understanding when an organization and its supply chain can apply the lean and green principles and tools.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt to understand, develop and integrate a lean and green organizational culture approach, based in standardized management business models.
Developing social capital for facilitating knowledge management practices
Authors: Monavvarian Abbas , Asgari Nasser , Akhavan Peyman , Ashena Mostafa
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This study seeks to explore the effect of social capital (SC) on knowledge management (KM) practices. The main problem under investigation is to assess the importance of SC within an organization and to ascertain how it can ensure that knowledge activities would continue to be fitting and proper in the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the notion that certain factors can affect knowledge management, this paper examines the effect of the various aspects of social capital on the knowledge management practices. The research method is descriptive and correlational. The population of the research consists of managers and senior experts of NIOPDC (National Iran Oil Product Distribution Co). A sample of 273 subjects was selected using statistical sampling. Data were collected through questionnaire consisting of 25 questions.

Findings

The study has found that there are meaningful relationships between all of the dimensions of SC and KM practices. They can also facilitate knowledge management practices. The findings further suggest that among various dimensions of SC, trust has the most influential effect on KM practices.

Research limitations/implications

In spite of lacking considerable empirical research investigating the correlations between KM and SC, this research not only extends the understanding of the effect of SC on KM, but also the interrelationship between various aspects of SC and their joint effects on knowledge management practices.

Originality/value

Existing research has concentrated on studying the effect of SC on KM, by and large. There is little empirical research investigating the correlations between KM and SC. This paper addresses this gap and contributes understanding of how organizations can promote the effectiveness of KM practices through developing their social capital.
Investigating causal relationship between social capital and microfinance
Authors: Akram Sohail , Routray Jayant Kumar
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate causal link between social capital and microfinance by testing the role of social capital in explaining the household's access to microcredit under the group‐based lending approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Household level primary data was collected from a rural district of Pakistan. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to construct a social capital index, whereas two logit models were developed to predict the probabilities of access to credit. Besides, few qualitative statements have also been used to supplement the results from main empirical analysis and to understand the impact mechanism of social capital on microfinance participation.

Findings

Participation in local organizations, heterogeneity of associations and level of both generalized and institutional trust were identified as the key dimensions of structural and cognitive social capital to influence households' access to credit. On the other hand, when these dimensions were combined in a single social capital index, the result indicated that social capital index has no significant effect on microfinance participation. This result provides support to the argument that grouping all the dimensions of social capital into one index may run the risk of losing the explanatory power of social capital.

Practical implications

The results of the study could be encouraging for governments and other development agencies. The existing social capital could be utilized in the design and delivery of microfinance programs as well as other rural development activities. The results of the study also encourage policy makers to invest in the creation of social capital either directly or by providing environment supportive of its creation.

Originality/value

The study is a contribution to the limited empirical literature on social capital and microfinance. This study is the first of its kind in Pakistan and hopefully will contribute to the limited knowledge on social capital literature in the country generally and in the context of rural development specifically.
Local particularities or distance gradient
Authors: Herath Shanaka , Maier Gunther
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of relative importance of local characteristics, distance from the city centre and unobservable spatial relation in explaining values of constant‐quality apartment units in Vienna.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on recent developments in spatial econometrics and spatial hedonic house price modelling, the rent gradient hypothesis is examined by means of hedonic regression and spatial hedonic regression. Spatial autocorrelation tests are applied in order to assess possible presence of spatial dependence. The authors borrow Florax et al.'s specification search strategy in order to choose the most appropriate spatial model specification.

Findings

This research shows that local characteristics – or particularities – proxied by district and distance from the city centre are important location variables with regard to the Viennese apartment market. The spatial analysis suggests that the apartment prices are spatially autocorrelated and the Viennese apartment market has a distance‐based neighbourhood structure. The main finding is, however, that residents are willing to bid more for constant‐quality apartment units that are close to the centre of the city.

Originality/value

Rent gradient hypothesis is usually tested within non‐spatial hedonic frameworks: this study estimates a spatial hedonic model additionally in order to allow for comparison of results. This is also the first article to apply recent developments in spatial econometrics to examine explicitly rent gradient theory in the context of the Viennese apartment market.
Volatility interdependence in European real estate securities markets
Authors: Hiang Liow Kim
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the interdependence of daily conditional volatility in seven FTSE‐NAREIT‐EPRA European developed real estate securities markets – the United Kingdom, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Italy, Sweden and Switzerland, from January 1990 to December 2011.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs the multivariate GARCH and the generalized VAR volatility spillover index methodologies.

Findings

The author finds that each of the seven European developed real estate securities markets is relatively endogenous and interacts well with the other markets. In particular, the French real estate securities market has the most dominant volatility impact on other markets over the full sample period. The introduction and implementation of the euro is associated with a moderate increase of the total volatility spillovers around the three‐year (January 1999‐January 2002) period among the sample markets. Moreover, these markets have experienced an increase in their volatility correlation, as well as becoming more open around the GFC period. Around this crisis period, the German real estate securities market emerges as the “volatility leader” in transmitting the conditional volatilities to other markets in the European region.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to examine whether each of the sample European real estate securities markets has influenced or has been more influenced by others from the conditional volatility spillover perspective in the context of economic globalization, monetary integration and financial crisis. Since international investors incorporate into their portfolio selections not only the return correlation structure but also the market volatility interaction, the results of this study can shed light on the extent to which investors can benefit from international real estate securities diversification in the European developed countries.
Performance and role of European listed infrastructure in a mixed‐asset portfolio
Authors: Oyedele Joseph B. , McGreal Stanley , Adair Alastair , Ogedengbe Peter
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the performance of European listed infrastructure before, during and after the global financial crisis and the significance of European infrastructure in a mixed asset portfolio. The paper examines the level of correlation of European infrastructure with other major assets classes and substantiates the potential diversification benefits of including European infrastructure within a mixed asset portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses monthly investment return indices obtained from Thomson Reuters DataStream over a ten year period (2001‐2010). The paper analysed the European listed infrastructure investment return characteristics including average annual return, annual risk, Sharpe indices, mean variance portfolio and maximum return portfolio and computes the efficient portfolio frontiers using the risk solver optimization tool.

Findings

This study shows that despite the global financial turmoil, a robust performance was seen by certain infrastructure sub‐sectors particularly European generation utilities, which posted positive annualised returns during the global financial crisis and European “ports” emerged as the overall best performing sub‐asset class during the post‐GFC period. Using the monthly return indices over the ten year period, European infrastructure investment was found to play a significant role in the optimality of multi asset portfolios.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper stems from the analysis of the performance and significance of European listed infrastructure in a multi‐asset portfolio over unique periods which tested the resilience of European listed infrastructure performance over different financial climates including the global financial crisis period. This paper presents European listed infrastructure as an indication of rewarding investment outlets for investors in quest of exposure to the infrastructure industry and for those seeking to enhance investment portfolio performance.
Rural infrastructure development in the Volta region of Ghana: barriers and interventions
Authors: Badu Edward , Owusu‐Manu De‐Graft , Edwards David J. , Adesi Michael , Lichtenstein Scott
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Although a high proportion of the Ghanaian population live and work in under‐developed areas, research on rural infrastructure development is scarce. The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges confronting rural infrastructure development and the requisite incentives needed to boost it.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive methodological approach was adopted using a structured questionnaire to survey the perceptions of rural contractors.

Findings

Incentive systems identified include the provision of mobilization funds for projects; a plant pool for rural contractors; special allowance for rates of project items; and provision of letters of credit to secure loans for projects. Key challenges confronting rural construction were identified as a lack of financial institutions willing to support projects with funds; lack of potable water; lack of good health care systems; and lack of a goods market to supply materials.

Research limitations/implications

Identification of challenges and incentive systems for rural infrastructure development provides an opportunity to reinvigorate rural infrastructural development in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Practical implications

The study will be of value to all project partners throughout the supply chain who contemplate rural infrastructure development.

Originality/value

The paper presents a novel epitome of rural infrastructure delivery in the developing country of Ghana.
Measuring and reporting intellectual capital
Authors: Serena Chiucchi Maria
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Despite the plethora of frameworks proposed, there is little evidence of organizations measuring and reporting their IC. This paper aims to shed light on the factors that can hinder or promote the utilization of IC accounting for managerial purposes, thus contributing to understanding why IC frameworks are not so widespread in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

To investigate the issue at hand, a multiple case study of three Italian companies, which have been measuring their IC for several years, will be used, adopting a critical perspective. The actual research project was conducted using an interventionist approach.

Findings

The paper shows how IC model utilization and IC mobilization are influenced by several factors such as: the project's connection to a specific strategic objective, the system's interactive design, its complexity, the predominant use of non‐financial indicators (which can be ambiguous and provocative), the backward‐ or forward‐looking nature of the resultant measurement tools and the osmosis between company‐wide and local control systems.

Research limitations/implications

Being referred to a multiple case study, results cannot be generalized to other organizations. The adoption of an interventionist approach and the IC model applied may have influenced the results obtained.

Practical implications

The findings can help companies to make the IC accounting implementation processes more effective and create the conditions that can help mobilize IC.

Originality/value

The paper investigates IC in action, thus contributing to narrowing the gap between theory and practice, and offers new insights on some hindering or enabling factors which may influence the diffusion of IC accounting.
Colouring the numbers – on the role of intellectual capital in financial reporting
Authors: Graaf Johan
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explore how managers are mobilising IC items when approaching their investors and analysts. To this date, there is a lack of knowledge surrounding the translation processes of IC, from corporate disclosures to the capital market. Little is known of how managers mobilise their IC in order for analysts and investors to embrace it and consider it to be a relevant part of corporate disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies a performative approach to IC, in which framing theory is mobilized to understand the duality of financial indicators. The empirical material was collected through a case study approach, focusing on the interim reporting practices of a Swedish online gaming company. The study investigated a total of 16 earnings announcements and their accompanying conference calls in the period of 2008‐2011. In addition, five interviews with top managers and financial analysts were performed.

Findings

The findings suggest that IC is highly dependent on financial indicators and can therefore not be treated as the opposite of financial capital. Instead of complementing financial capital, IC is the symptomatic quality of financial indicators, i.e. a way to make sense, contextualise and reconnect a disentangled representation with empirical phenomena.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a new way of viewing IC disclosures, expanding the knowledge and methodology in IC research. The paper also highlights the study of an important disclosure, expanding research on IC disclosures beyond annual reports. Finally, it offers practitioners additional insights in the communication of non‐financials to the capital market.
Awareness of your own intangible assets
Authors: Demartini Paola , Paoloni Paola
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the point of convergence between the process of drawing up the intellectual capital statement (ICS) and the corporate social responsibility statement (CSRS).

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical paradigm underlying the authors’ research is interpretivism. In particular, this study is conducted in light of the “action research” perspective. Data have been gathered by in‐depth interviews with managers and from group discussions.

Findings

The results demonstrate that is possible and also convenient to overlap the tasks to be done in the process of drawing up the ICS and the CSRS.

Originality/value

This paper is of interest to both scholars and professionals because it presents the results of an empirical study into the critical success factors for implementing the development of ICS and simultaneously of CSRS.
A political economy of intangibles reporting: the case of Japan
Authors: Girella Laura , Zambon Stefano
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the economic, political and social premises according to which some governmental agencies have decided to promote IC reporting in their country. Firstly, it will examine the contextual premises and conditions that have encouraged (or inhibited) IC reporting. Secondly, it will investigate the way these premises and conditions interact in different ways, thus establishing (loosely) coupled relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationship between IC recommendation for corporate reporting and contextual linkages will be analysed from a political economy perspective, as proposed by Cooper and Sherer, and others, and as modified by the type of discursive analysis inspired by Burchell et al.

Findings

In light of the relationship that the paper will establish between different discourses, IC will be understood not as a merely corporate neutral technique but as an economic and socially constructed phenomenon aimed at re‐launching the growth of a country. In this way, it will be explored from both within – in terms of methods and their usefulness for its “supporters” – and also externally – in relation to how it is perceived and in turn communicated by politicians who are “delegates of different cognitive and social institutions”, as Manninen said in 1996.

Originality/value

A political economy analysis of IC reporting enables the opening up of the black box of IC reporting in relation to public policy, outlining a useful approach for practitioners and policy makers.
Promoting professionals' innovative behaviour through knowledge sharing: the moderating role of social capital
Authors: Mura Matteo , Lettieri Emanuele , Radaelli Giovanni , Spiller Nicola
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This study aims to offer new insights to further the understanding on the relevance of engaging employees in knowledge sharing behaviours in order to improve current operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors' conceptual model proposes a direct relationship between knowledge sharing behaviours and employees' innovative behaviour, moderated by employees' perception of social capital. Six hypotheses were developed from the literature, grounded and tested among 198 employees of four hospices and palliative care organisations (H&PCOs) for dying cancer patients. All constructs were measured using multiple‐item scales that were adapted from previous related studies. The authors' hypotheses were tested using seemingly unrelated regression (SUR).

Findings

This study has three main results. First, the authors found a positive role of knowledge sharing behaviours in affecting sharers' innovativeness, in terms of propensity and capacity to promote and implement new ideas. Second, sharing best practices and sharing mistakes are two distinct drivers of individuals' innovativeness. Third, individuals' perceptions of social capital have a relevant moderation effect on the linkage between knowledge sharing and innovative behaviour.

Originality/value

Past research posited that knowledge sharing is convenient for others, and possibly at the expense of sharers' best interest. The authors' research was grounded on a different notion of knowledge sharing as: a self‐interested behaviour, which individuals deploy to generate a norm of reciprocity among knowledge recipients, which might create future benefits in the short term; and an improvement process, which individuals can use to translate new ideas into workable innovations.
Knowledge strategies for environmental innovations: the case of Italian manufacturing firms
Authors: De Marchi Valentina , Grandinetti Roberto
Published: July 2013

Purpose

This paper aims at investigating the rather unexplored issue of how green innovators address the knowledge needs emerging when initiating a sustainability path, comparing their knowledge strategies with those of non‐green innovators.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigate this issue using data from the 2008 Italian Community Innovation Survey (CIS). Focusing on manufacturing firms, they identify the main characteristics and knowledge assets of firms introducing environmental innovations (EIs) as opposed to those of other innovators.

Findings

The authors' results suggest that the development of EIs entails a higher recourse to external knowledge, in the form of use of external sources of information, acquiring R&D from external firms and cooperation. Relationships with partners that do not belong to the supply chain – including KIBS, universities, research institutions and competitors – are far more important than for other innovations. On the contrary, differences between the two categories are less marked when it comes to investments in internal knowledge resources. Finally, proactive environmental innovators have very different knowledge strategies than reactive ones, which resemble non‐green innovators.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is that it investigates the unexplored issue of how firms assess and develop the knowledge needed to develop EIs. By comparing them with the strategies of non‐green innovators, the analysis performed in the paper allows understanding the peculiarities of such innovations. Furthermore, the authors contribute to the literature by verifying how knowledge management strategies vary according to the differential importance that sustainability has for the firm's innovative strategy.