bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect Of Group-Orientation Culture On Inter-Organizational Cooperation Mechanisms
Authors: Ryu Sungmin , Moon Chul Woo
Published: March 2016

Cooperation between exchange parties becomes a center for inter-organizational relationship. Cooperation reduces the attractiveness of opportunistic behavior that seeks short-term benefits, so it has been identified as a key factor for inter-organizational cooperation. Although several factors affecting cooperative relationship have been studied, the majority of inter-organizational studies are conducted on the basis of an individualistic perspective view of Western culture. This study introduces group-orientation culture and tries to enhance the understanding the effect of group-orientation culture on inter-organizational cooperation in the relationship between exchange parties. This study suggests that group-orientation culture influences the generation of informal cooperation between exchange parties. When a party expects harmonious relationship with its partner, the party develops the relational norm through accepting short-term disadvantages that are expected to be balanced out by longer-term advantages. However, exchange parties with a low group-orientation culture do not rely on formal cooperation mechanisms.
A Proposed Measure Of IT Infrastructure Flexibility In The Global Networked Firm: Extending The IT Infrastructure Measure Of Reach And Range
Authors: Ward Kerry
Published: March 2016

In todays fast paced global business environment, firms need a flexible infrastructure that allows the organization to adapt to rapid change. An important enabler of this flexibility is the IT infrastructure. IT infrastructure flexibility is not a well understood concept and little work has been done on how to measure IT infrastructure flexibility. This paper fills this gap by proposing a measure for IT Infrastructure flexibility based on Keens 1991 reach and range.
Wireless Business And The Impact On Firm Performance: The Strategic Move To Adopt A New Technology
Authors: Stoica Michael , Roach William , Price David
Published: March 2016

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is receiving increased attention due to the vast potential it presents for rural and underserved settings. Successful adoption of new technology, in particular mobile commerce, can serve as a catalyst for improving quality of life and reducing the digital divide. Adoption of new technology is dependent upon variables such as: organizational culture, business strategy, as well as their surrounding environment. Hypotheses that investigate the relationships between the above variables and business performance in the context of the new technology adoption process are formulated. A sample of small and medium-sized businesses from the American Midwest that adopted, or are in the process of adopting, wireless technology is used to test these hypotheses. The methodology, results, and managerial implications are discussed.
An Operational Framework For Reverse Supply Chains
Authors: Tyagi Rajesh Kumar , Dhanda K. Kathy , Young Scott
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we present a framework for reverse supply chains. We identify four managerial drivers in the reverse chain as Facilities, Handling, Ease of Access, and Information. We explore the impact of each of these drivers upon the effectiveness and performance of the overall reverse chain via a survey of supply chain managers. We present the results of the survey and conclude with managerial implications derived from the survey results. The field interviews have been supplemented with survey results. The results indicate that the firms, that have reverse supply chain as a strategic priority providing a responsive and effective transportation network and that have an easy return policy, are more likely to have the most reliable reverse supply chain. The results also indicate that reverse supply chain matters the most at the late growth stage of the product life.
Seeking Best Practices In The Balancing Act Between Data Security And Operational Effectiveness
Authors: Hoadley Ellen D. , Deibel Justin , Kistner Colleen , Rice Pamela , Sokhey Sandeep
Published: March 2016

This paper develops an interdisciplinary model of data security and privacy effectiveness that blends the information hierarchy model with the principles of the Toyota production system. An application of the blended model is applied in the healthcare setting to evaluate its external validity. The usability and external validity of the model provide a preliminary set of best practices to improve organizational leverage of strategic planning and implementation of security and privacy safeguards. Its contributions include model development with real-world application and interdisciplinary bases.
Does Removing/Replacing Missing Values Improve The Models' Classification Performances?
Authors: Zurada Jozef
Published: March 2016

The paper explores the effect of removing/replacing missing values on the classification performance of several models. The original data set, which contains a relatively large number of missing values, comes from the credit scoring context. This data set was not used to build the models, but it was converted to five other data sets with missing values either removed or replaced using different techniques. The models were built and tested on the five data sets. Preliminary computer simulation showed that the models created and tested on the four data sets in which missing values were replaced exhibited significantly better predictive performance than the model built and tested on the data set with missing values removed.
Organizational Politics, Psychological Empowerment And Organizational Commitment: Empirical Evidence From Pakistan
Authors: Atta Naheed , Ahmad Muneer , Mangla Inayat , Farrell Dan
Published: March 2016

Despite its ubiquity in organizations, organizational politics may be viewed negatively by managers. When managers empower employees, the effect of organizational politics may be moderated. This study of Pakistani managers (n=357) demonstrates that organizational politics changes from having a negative effect on employee commitment to a strong positive effect when employees perceive psychological empowerment. The study also validates the use of existing measurement scales in non-Western cultures.
The Effect Of Blog Trustworthiness, Product Attitude, And Blog Involvement On Purchase Intention
Authors: Wu Wei-Li , Lee Yi-Chih
Published: March 2016

Consumers value the advice of others when they are shopping online. Therefore, some high pageview bloggers could have a great influence on a consumers shopping decision. Blog marketing is a new communication tool. Blog trustworthiness, product attitude and blog involvement were the three independent variables used in this study to investigate the aspect of purchase intention. This study found that blog involvement had a significant influence on purchase intention. This result contributes concrete suggestions to enterprises when they are dealing with blog marketing.
Organizational Mission Statement Guidelines Revisited
Authors: Powers Edward L.
Published: March 2016

This paper provides appropriate guidelines for writing organizational mission statements. A planning framework is presented as a reference point for seeing where a mission statement fits into the planning process. Examples are provided of guidelines typically recommended for use in writing a mission statement, and some samples of organization mission statements are presented in order to illuminate the variety of approaches used in practice. New guidelines for mission statement content are recommended.
Creating Working Value Evaluation Model WVEM
Authors: Uchida Kazunori , Tsunoi Masashi , Amasaka Kakuro
Published: March 2016

The authors create a Working Value Evaluation Model WVEM for labor valuation by using statistical science that allows manufacturers to visualize the performance of labor. We verify the effectiveness of this model at auto manufactures and others.
Organizational Change In Small And Medium Size Enterprises: Practice, Frequency And Achievement Of Objectives
Authors: Banham Heather , He Yunke
Published: March 2016

Organizational changes are experienced by 40% of a group of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Canada according to authors recent survey. These SMEs report substantive attainment of the objectives which were pursued in implementing these change practices. An emerging concern in the pursuit and attainment of greater labour flexibility as an objective is that it impairs the creation of full time employment opportunities which is one of the expectations for SMEs. Data analysis fails to provide evidence of a strong link between implementation of organizational changes and financial performance of these firms, of which 80% have been operating for more than five years.
Corporate Governance In The Lodging Industry: Special Case Of The Service Industry
Authors: Logan Twila-Mae , Gooden Doreen J. , Simon Helen H.
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the corporate governance structure of publicly traded hospitality firms and determines whether the governance structure selected by these firms is consistent with minimizing monitoring and bonding costs dictated by the complexity of the business models. There is strong evidence that complex firms had larger board of directors, more outside board members, a greater fraction of CEO pay being variable, and more frequent occurrence of CEO/Chairman duality than simple firms. The results also present evidence of a positive relationship between firms that have the appropriate governance structures and the profitability and valuation of the firm.
An Evaluation Of RFID Door Security System At Taipei Arena Ice Land Based On Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Cheng Kuei-Mei
Published: March 2016

This study is based on technology acceptance model (TAM). It investigates consumer attitudes toward the use of and consumer behavioral intention to use an RFID door security system at Taipei Arena Ice Land. This study adopts a questionnaire method using purposive sampling and collects data from 250 consumers of Taipei Arena Ice Land. The results of this study show that: 1) system quality has a significant positive impact on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, 2) information quality has a significant positive impact on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, 3) service quality does not have a significant positive impact on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, 4) perceived ease of use has a significant positive impact on perceived usefulness, 5) perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use have a significant positive impact on attitudes toward use, 6) attitudes toward using have a significant positive impact on behavioral intentions to use, 7) perceived usefulness has a significant positive impact on behavioral intentions to use, and 8) perceived ease of use has a significant impact on attitude toward using via perceived usefulness.
Gendering Technologies: Women In Cameroons Pink-Collar ICT Work
Authors: Tabuwe Manka E. , Muluh Henry Z. , Tanjong Enoh , Akpan-Obong Patience , Sikali Lawrence , Ngongban Augustine , Itegboje Ajibike Olubunmi , Samake Kibily Demba , Mbarika Victor Wacham A.
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the rise of low-skilled, low-paying, female dominated jobs in Cameroons information and communication technology (ICT) sector. It seeks to understand why and how women (mostly between the ages of 18 and 35) seem to be naturally drawn to these jobs, described in the literature as pink-collar jobs. Through interviews with ICT workers and observations at ICT training centers and call centers in Buea, a major city in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, the paper explores the factors that hinder womens entry into more technical ICT jobs in Cameroon. It concludes that some of these factors, such as the prior income level of female ICT workers and the absence of female instructors at ICT training centers, further reinforce gender-based job classifications and the rise of ghettoization in Cameroons ICT sector.
Shared Leadership In IT Project Management: A Practice Survey
Authors: Stagnaro Chet , Piotrowski Chris
Published: March 2016

In the management field today, shared leadership (SL) is considered a form of distributed leadership, conceptualized largely as working or functioning within a team framework. Yet, there seems to be sparse research on the application of shared leadership principles in the IT field, particularly project management practices. To address this void in the literature, the current study was designed to determine the actual usage and assess the views of managerial-level practitioners toward SL. To that end, a 12-item Likert-type instrument was developed that reflected attitudes, intent, and actual usage. An E-mail response form was forwarded to a target sample of 250 IT project managers in the U.S. Of these, 102 responded with completed survey data. The independent variables in this study were gender, years in IT practice, and industry certification. These project managers expressed overwhelmingly positive attitudes and confirmed wide usage of SL in work-based projects. No significant differences, based on gender, years of experience, and certification were noted. Overall, these findings support the efficacy of the SL model and team-based leadership styles.
Principles Driven Leadership: Thoughts, Observations And Conceptual Model
Authors: Burian Philip E. , Burian Pamela S. , Maffei III Francis Skip , Pieffer Mark A.
Published: March 2016

Leadership has as many definitions as it does books written on the subject. Discussions regarding the subject often migrate toward the differences between leadership and management. The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual view of leadership based on experience, observation and lessons learned. A conceptual model and a comprehensive set of principles are presented that can be used as a blueprint toward developing a sound foundation of leadership.
Teaching (And Learning) Negotiation: Is There Still Room For Innovation?
Authors: Alavoine Claude , Kaplanseren Ferkan , Teulon Frederic
Published: March 2016

Negotiation is often considered as an art requiring specific skills and competencies that can only be practiced by talented or gifted people. Therefore learning about negotiation could be considered useless as it necessitates a certain aptitude revealed in situations that are always different, depending on many conditional aspects like the actors, interests, context or nature of conflict. Most practitioners and future negotiators are looking for prescriptive advices on how to lead effective negotiation. Training comes frequently as an answer to the question and simulation exercises can be, in that sense, adequate and powerful pedagogical tools. Our intention in this paper is to explore several paths based on some of the most fundamental elements and driving forces of negotiation: trust, stakes and power.
Use Of Humor In The Workplace
Authors: Witt Smith Janice , Khojasteh Mak
Published: March 2016

Humor is an organizational tool which, when used appropriately, can be effective in facilitating a better work environment. Organizational benefits include increased group cohesion, reduced conflict (through reduced stress), increased leadership effectiveness, and improved communication. There are implications that humor in diverse groups, which relate to gender or ethnicity, must be used with caution.
The Role Of Awareness And Communications In Information Security Management: A Health Care Information Systems Perspective
Authors: Mishra Sushma , Caputo Donald J. , Leone Gregory J. , Kohun Fred G. , Draus Peter J.
Published: March 2016

The purpose and intent of this research study is to understand and interpret the perception of stakeholders in healthcare organizations concerning security awareness and communications. The data is analyzed using the demographic characteristics of age, gender, education, and relevant work experience in order to determine if there are any significant differences between the groups regarding the state of awareness and the communication functions in a health care environment. The statistical results are presented in tabular form with descriptive analysis applied to each of the categories. Data-based conclusions are drawn and future research directions are indicated and discussed.
The History Of Project Management
Authors: Seymour Tom , Hussein Sara
Published: March 2016

Long before there was an institute for project management, or updated knowledge books and guides on how to manage projects, or even before the existence of Gantt charts, history offers several examples of colossal projects successfully completed. The Pyramids of Giza, Great Wall of China, and Coliseum are all good examples of such projects. Project Management, at its core, is concerned with creating an environment where people can work together to achieve a mutual objective, in order to deliver successful projects on time and on budget. Throughout the history of humanity, humans have been working on improving and refining the practices of project management. The goal of this paper is to present the evolution of project management since ancient times until present times and its outlook in the future by outlining major events and developments throughout history.
Determinants Of Ethical Climate In The Firm: The Role Of Governance Control Systems And Environmental Uncertainty
Authors: Williams John J. , Seaman Alfred E.
Published: March 2016

Corporate governance mechanisms essentially reside in the control structure/systems of most organizations and provide, theoretically at least, a conduit to support a better organizational ethical climate. This linkage, however, has seldom been portrayed this way in the literature and, correspondingly, there are virtually no empirical studies to offer increased understanding, especially with respect to the professional accountant in practice. Accordingly, this paper empirically assesses the governance mechanisms sanctioned by the International Federation of Accountants (2009) as determinants of an organizations ethical climate based on evidence from a Canadian sample of CFOs/controllers. The ethics/leadership literature relating to ethical climate provides the theoretical underpinnings while organizational contingency theory supports examining the moderating effects of perceived environmental uncertainty (PEU). Increases in corporate governance control mechanisms are found to positively influence ethical climate. A significant relationship persists under both low and high levels of PEU but, as expected, it is much stronger when the level of PEU is low which raises concerns about how to embrace a stronger ethical climate when uncertainty is high. This paper contributes to the governance and ethics literature by providing empirical evidence that normative directives on evaluating and improving governance in organizations from global accounting authorities, such as the IFAC, are effective in shaping firms ethical climates in practice.
Strategies To Build Trust And Improve Employee Engagement
Authors: McManus Joseph , Mosca Joseph
Published: March 2016

In this paper we examine strategies intended to improve employees' morale and highlight specific actions organizations can take to enhance employee engagement and trust in the aftermath of layoffs and significant reorganizations.
Exploring Factors That Affect Usefulness, Ease Of Use, Trust, And Purchase Intention In The Online Environment
Authors: Cho Yoon C. , Sagynov Esen
Published: March 2016

Various studies have examined the effects of factors on online attitudes and behavior. By applying the Technology Acceptance Model, this study is focused on investigating factors that affect customers online purchasing behavior. In particular, this study examines i) effects of such factors as product information, price, convenience, and perceived product or service quality on perceived usefulness; ii) effects of convenience, perceived product or service quality, and desire to shop without a salesperson on perceived ease of use; iii) effects of perceived ease of use on perceived usefulness; iv) effects of perceived ease of use and usefulness on intentions to shop online; and v) effects of trust on purchase intentions. The data collected online and offline were analyzed using factor and regression analysis, and structural equation modeling. The results of this study indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and trust had a statistically significant effect on behavioral intention to shop on the Internet.
Current Trends Of Unethical Behavior Within Organizations
Authors: Askew Octavia A. , Beisler Jeffrey M. , Keel Jetonga
Published: March 2016

A substantial body of research reveals that unethical behavior continues to be a concern in the workplace. This article presents information on the prevalence of unethical behavior, antecedents of unethical behavior, the organizational environment, cognitive moral development, and trends of unethical behavior over a 3 year span. Findings of earlier studies generally agree that unethical behavior has a negative effect in the workplace. The greatest research effort on this issue has been to continue to conduct studies within organizations, identifying if the issue of unethical behavior is improving or stagnant.
Vinchel Contemplates Market Expansion Strategies
Authors: Hise Richard , Barcan David
Published: March 2016

This case is prepared as a basis for class discussion rather than to illustrate either effective or ineffective handling of a business situation. Support for this case was provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Eurasia Foundation in Washington, D.C. for which we are very grateful. We would like to express our gratitude to the management of Vinchel Winery for their participation in discussions and provision of materials without which this case study would not have been possible.
The Case For Consistency: What Justifies The Maintenance Of A Top International Hotel Reputation?
Authors: Coll-Reillyrry JeJoan H.
Published: March 2016

This case addresses the issues encountered when an international hotel chain develops the reputation for being a top hotel. The case examines the situation of visitors who pay, by American standards, the premium price for a stay at this chains Acapulco resort only to encounter inconsistent and, at times, questionable service. Discussion questions and teaching notes are included.
How Young Is Too Young: Marketing To The Tween Generation
Authors: Castleberry Stephen B. , Merrier Patricia A.
Published: March 2016

A girl yanks on a pair of hipster jeans. Her mother is aghast, You cant go to school looking like that, the mother says sternly. The mom then pulls the pants lower, proving she is hip to the current styles.
Electronic Signatures And The Statute Of Frauds
Authors: Bottiglieri William A.
Published: March 2016

The Statute of Frauds requires that certain contracts be signed. In this age of e-commerce exactly how does one sign a fax or an e-mail.
Beanie Babies: An Idea Whose Time Has Come - Or - A Craze Whose Time Has Almost Run?
Authors: Gallagher J. G.
Published: March 2016

TY Warner's objectives are the same as the company. It is a fad product which is usually adapted fast, peaks early and declines quickly, but Ty Warner kept reinventing the product. (Kotler)
E*Trade Financial Services
Authors: Gupta Atul , Hatter Jonathan , Pinnoju Shivakumar
Published: March 2016

The electronic age continues to grow and to offer new and more efficient forms of electronic trade and electronic commerce. As this evolution continues, it is no surprise that the online financial services industry is seeing both significant changes and new revenue potential. One of the players in the online financial services industry is E*Trade Financial Services. Launched in 1992, the company was a pioneer in online brokerage services. At its inception, E*Trades focus was on becoming Americas dominant deep-discount brokerage firm by fully automating the front and back-office trade processing function and maintaining its position as the low-cost provider. Today, E*Trade offers a diverse and integrated portfolio of services including deep-discount brokerage services, traditional banking services like checking and savings, and mortgage and equity services. E*Trade strives to provide a range of services that are consolidated under one website, to provide convenience, and to be accessible 24/7. E*Trade also provides the tools necessary to guide clients through their financial needs. E*Trade faces growing competition as the industry is facing self-destructive price-war and, thus to reduce the costs, undergoing huge consolidations. While the competition is tough, E*Trade has a strong presence and percentage of marketshare in the industry. The company has proven that it can attract customers and provide the information and tools that they require to manage their own portfolio. The self-directed investors and the individuals who want control of and access to their finances are the core customers of E*Trade, and the company caters to them in terms of products and services. Where will E*Trade go from here? Should the company continue to slash the fee and commission charges like others do, or should it diversify its services and focus on core revenue generator of brokerage services? These questions are addressed in this paper as well as the current market position and the types of services that are offered. The paper provides a snapshot of what E*Trade is, what it does, and where it is going.
Competition In The eLearning Industry: A Case Study
Authors: Kaliski John , Kalinowski Jon , Schumann Paul , Scott Tim , Shin Dooyoung
Published: March 2016

This paper highlights the structural attributes of the eLearning Industry. The case presents details regarding the evolution of the eLearning market and provides the opportunity for students of strategic management to build critical industry analytical skills by applying a variety of techniques highlighted in the accompanying case teaching note. To obtain a copy of the teaching note, contact the corresponding author by email. The analytical techniques applied include the identification of the chief economic characteristics of the industry, Porters five force model of competition, the impact of driving forces on industry structure, and the identification of necessary competitive capabilities (success factors) for success in the eLearning industry.
A Case Study Of The Music Industry
Authors: Hunt Kenneth A. , Mellicker Andrew
Published: March 2016

Every industry in the world is affected by technological advancements. As new products and methods are invented, old products and methods become obsolete. Perhaps no industry illustrates this basic principle better than the music industry. From the invention of sheet music to the digital music files known today, the music industry has remade itself time after time. With the development of the latest technology, old products have repeatedly been abandoned. This case will explore the history of the music industry by highlighting the various technologies that changed the industry. In addition, a discussion will be offered to explore possible future directions of the industry.
What A Dog Fight! TKO: Pets.com
Authors: Matulich Erika , Squires Karen
Published: March 2016

The case covers the startup of Pets.com, an online retailer of pet supplies. Pets.com made its entry into a heavily competitive but potentially lucrative market. Despite heavy capital funding and a number of high-profile strategic initiatives, the company closed its doors in November, 2000. The demise of Pets.com is considered to be one of the highest-profile dotcom failures.
Introducing Forensic Accounting In The Intermediate Accounting Class
Authors: Tomczyk Stephen , Rich Anne
Published: March 2016

Students are introduced to the variety of accounting careers in their financial accounting courses. By the time students select a major, they begin to focus on career options. Students often find themselves fascinated whenever any area of forensic accounting is discussed. This paper provides a brief overview of forensic accounting as well as a case that can be useful in the intermediate accounting class to highlight the role of the forensic accountant.
Brands As Ideological Symbols: The Cola Wars
Authors: Aggarwal Praveen , Knudsen Kjell , Maamoun Ahmed
Published: March 2016

The Coca-Cola Company is the undisputed global leader in the cola industry. Despite its size and marketing savvy, the company has faced a barrage of competition from new companies in the Middle East and some parts of Europe. These companies have tried to create a niche for themselves by tapping into the anti-U.S. sentiment that prevails among a section of population in these markets. We review three such competitors, Zam Zam Cola, Mecca Cola, and Qibla Cola and their strategies for challenging the global giant.
Are Hybrid Cars A Good Buy?
Authors: Macy Anne
Published: March 2016

This case examines the benefits and costs of buying a hybrid car. Students examine the car purchase decision along with depreciation rates and the long-term value of hybrid cars, while they calculate the benefits and costs of the various hybrid vehicles and their comparable sister cars. Secondary issues include an examination of the trade-in value for non-hybrid cars and the horsepower and greenhouse gas emission differences between hybrid and their sister cars. Furthermore, students will examine whether or not the federal tax credit for hybrids should be reinstated.
Franchising And The Society: The Case Of Franchising In The Hotel Industry
Authors: Diaz-Bernardo Ramon
Published: March 2016

Franchising is a major trend in the hotel industry. Despite the fact that almost two thirds of branded hotels in the US are franchised there is a distinct lack of empirical research on franchising in the hospitality industry. In this article we have reviewed one of the most relevant lines of research in franchising literature usually referred as franchising and the society, and we have concentrated on analyzing one of the most controversial issues in this line of research: the territorial rights in hotel franchising contracts. The paper identifies the main sources of conflict when dealing with territorial rights in hotel franchising contracts.
Auditing Cases That Made A Difference: Mckesson & Robbins
Authors: Foster Sheila D. , Strauch Bruce A.
Published: March 2016

Many cases have impacted how todays independent auditor does the job of expressing an opinion on financial statements. Students taking auditing classes memorize the names and dates of the some of these cases, but rarely learn the facts of the cases or appreciate why the cases were so critical to advancing modern auditing standards. McKesson & Robbins is one of the earliest of these cases. Spanning more than a decade, two continents, two generations and at least four surnames, this case clearly shows students that fraud is not limited to todays corporations and that there is, indeed, little that is new under the sun.
Introduction To Compilation Services As A Reinforcement Of Basic Accounting Concepts For Intermediate Accounting Students
Authors: McDowell Evelyn A. , Li Wei , McDougal Karen
Published: March 2016

According to a recent survey of accounting firms in 2008, Compilation and write-up services make up 23% of accounting firm billing for small firms with less than $1 Million in fee billings and 14% overall for all types of firms (Anonymous 2008), yet accounting students are rarely exposed to these services in their accounting academic experience. This comprehensive case gives students an opportunity to develop proficiencies in providing accounting compilation and write-up services to small business clients. Specifically, the goals of the case are to help students review the steps of the accounting cycle, understand how each of the four basic financial statements are inter-related, improve their ability to prepare financial statements and related disclosures, and enhance their spreadsheet skills. This case has been classroom tested and is appropriate for an intermediate accounting; honors introduction financial accounting course; or an accounting information systems course.
Evaluation Of Customer Survey Data To Develop An Effective Marketing Plan For State Parks: A Case Study Using The Texas Parks And Wildlife Department State Park Study
Authors: Beverly Marcy , Lau Michael , Stutts Kyle , Fazarro Dominick
Published: March 2016

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) collected information from 2001-2007 from individual parks throughout Texas in an effort to gain useful marketing information from its customers. This project was the first to survey the majority of state parks in Texas in order to gain a system-wide understanding of state park visitors to help plan for state-wide and regional marketing strategies in the future. This survey project collected data from state park visitors such as demographics, whether they were overnight or day visitors, and season of visit in order to identify distinct patterns. Most visitors to the parks were white/non-Hispanic (92%) despite the fact that this category makes up only about half of the Texas population. There were 13% of park visitors from outside the state of Texas and these visitors were older than the average resident Texan visitor and had a lower household income. The data from this survey will allow TPWD to develop specific marketing strategies to increase attendance, revenue, and customer satisfaction at state parks. Specifically, the information will aid in identifying a specific target market on which TPWD should concentrate its efforts.
The Creole Connection: What Happens Next?
Authors: Thomas Michael Lee , Mullen Linda Greef
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this case is to demonstrate the importance of target market selection and positioning, particularly for businesses in small college towns. Additionally, other marketing and management issues are presented to stimulate understanding of the multitude of variables that impact restaurant success. This case is intended for those interested in marketing, management, entrepreneurship, hotel/restaurant management or retailing areas.
Peter and Elaine Moss: Franchisees
Authors: Malaga Ross A. , Subramanian Ram
Published: March 2016

Peter Moss, a business school professor, and his wife, Elaine, a corporate executive, bought a Hair Shear franchise in the suburban Maryland area in July 2007. Hair Shear was a national chain of over 2,000 stores, all of which were franchisee owned. Peter and Elaine Moss contracted with Philip Levinson, a commercial real estate agent authorized by Hair Shear, to obtain a suitable location for their franchise. During her training session at Hair Shear headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, Elaine learned of the importance of a good location for the success of the franchise. The first location identified by the real estate agent did not work out because the strip malls main tenant, a day spa, vetoed the entry of a hair dressing salon, considering the salon to be a competitor. Elaine Moss identified a second location only to be told much later by the real estate agent that the location was taken by a barber friend of the landlord. Disappointed by their inability to find a suitable location, the Moss met a couple who owned multiple Hair Shear stores in Maryland who suggested that they typically negotiated directly with landlords. This couple suggested a third location for the Moss to consider. The dilemma facing Peter and Elaine Moss is two fold: which of the two was the ideal location for their store? The larger question was, should they bypass the authorized real estate agent and negotiate directly with the landlord?
Comedydriving.com - Online Defensive Driving: A Teaching Case
Authors: Mintu-Wimsatt Alma
Published: March 2016

This case highlights the impact of the Internet on the practice of Marketing. Because the Internet and its technologies have given rise to several of non-traditional products, the business approach to marketing issues for web-based products are often questioned. This case illustrates the merits of utilizing traditional strategic marketing tools in charting successful courses of action. For example, the importance of a SWOT analysis in analyzing an ebusiness marketing mix product, price, place and promotion, is emphasized. The case is recommended for either senior- level or graduate-level marketing course work.
Equestrian Trail Riding: An Emerging Economic Contributor To The Local Rural Appalachian Economy
Authors: Hackbert Peter H. , Lin Xiliang
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this paper is three-fold. First to summarize the importance of tourism in the Appalachian region with a focus on the State of Kentucky; second, to consider adventure tourism and the equestrian and trail riding segment as a potential contributor to Kentucky adventurism tourism; and third, to illustrate the economic value of trail riding in the form of an economic impact study which indicates levels of community economic development opportunity. Importantly, for this publication, is the fact that this research was conducted by undergraduate students at Berea College. This initial research was conducted by undergraduate within the Entrepreneurship for the Public Good Program at Berea College in the summer of 2008 and the economic impact study field work was conducted by freshman undergraduates in a Creative Writing class with a focus on adventure tourism in the fall of 2008.
Using Standard Work Tools For Process Improvement
Authors: Labach Elaine J.
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this paper is to describe the application of Kaizen tools toward process improvement.  The key tools described are those dedicated toward standard work, which is a prescribed sequence of tasks which are balanced to achieve a level production schedule.  Data from an actual Kaizen event in a Sewing Panel area serves as examples of the tools.  Specific tools highlighted include Takt Time, Time Observation Sheet, Cycle Time Bar Chart, Standard Work Layout Diagram, Spaghetti Diagram, 6-S Audit Sheet and Standard Work Combination Sheet.  The concept of a Cell Documentation Board is also presented to document and monitor standard work, and includes a Production Control Board and a Key Points Sheet.
Offensive Motivation Strategies: The Managerial And Legal Implications
Authors: Houts Lisa M. , Keppler Mark , Kalfayan Garo
Published: March 2016

This case study focuses on corporate culture, ethics, employment law, and motivation theory and is appropriate for use in a variety of management classes, such as organizational behavior, human resource management, or ethics.  It profiles a lawsuit brought against a company by one of its female employees who was subjected to a variety of “camaraderie building” exercises, including being spanked with a competitor’s metal poled yard sign.  The case is based on a true story.  Only the names and locations have been changed.  This case includes actual descriptions of company practices and communications which are offensive and may be disturbing.  However, they have been included so that the reader can appreciate the severity of the “motivational practices” that were being employed.
Case Study: Possible Demotion Of A Long-Time And Faithful Employee
Authors: Lucas John J.
Published: March 2016

This HRM case deals with the transfer and demotion of a “long-time and faithful” employee due to poor work performance.  The case is based upon an actual event that occurred at a Fortune 500 company.  This case study can be used for any undergraduate or graduate level human resource management class.
Four Questions For Analyzing The Right-Versus-Right Dilemmas Of Managers
Authors: Christensen David S. , Boneck Robin
Published: March 2016

Ethics dilemmas are different than moral temptations. The former involve right-versus-right problems. The latter are right-versus-wrong problems. Although both problems are found in business, ethics dilemmas can be defining moments in the lives of managers, where professional responsibilities collide with personal values. In this case study, students use four questions developed by Badaracco (1992) as a framework for analyzing and resolving real ethical dilemmas.
Global Supply Chain Management At Printko Ink Company
Authors: Abuizam Raida
Published: March 2016

The Printko Ink Company case illustrates how network models can be used as an aid in spreadsheet model formulation. It also enriches students’ knowledge how to use integer linear programming with binary (0-1) variables in dealing with fixed cost plant and warehouse location problems. Students completing the Printko Ink case will be able to develop a spreadsheet model that will solve for many logistic decision variables.  It will help students decide where or whether to manufacture Printko Ink single product and how to get it to its customers around the world in the most economical manner.
Organization Development Quality Improvement Process: Progress Energy's Continuous Business Excellence Initiative
Authors: McCuiston V. E. , DeLucenay A.
Published: March 2016

As the recession intensifies, many organizations are rethinking their work processes for both efficiency and quality enhancement.  Even though executives describe the battle to contain costs, productivity and productivity confidence are reportedly on the rise. The most commonly cited factor was not downsizing; it was redesign of work process, followed by quality and/or continuous improvement efforts, strong leadership and employee engagement (Blanchard, 2007; i4cp, 2009, September; i4cp, 2009, January; Rigby & Bilodeau, 2009).  Strategies that identify and remove blockages (Six Sigma) and excesses (lean work management initiatives) have become embedded in the public and private sectors.  This study of Progress Energy's Continuous Business Excellence strategy summarizes the process documentation and improvement process utilizing an organizational development model  of continuous quality improvement (CQI), resulting in a streamlined process, training manuals, new online process update procedures, and substantial cost savings and avoidance.  Implications for managers are provided. (145 words)
Using Hyperlinks To Create A Lecture On Calculating Beta And The Beta Coefficient For Dow Chemical Company
Authors: Harper Nakita , Jordan Keshawna , McGowan Jr Carl B. , Revello Benjamin J.
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we show hyperlinked Power Point lecture slides that show how to calculate the beta coefficient for Dow Chemical Company using the S&P 500 as the market index.   This paper shows how to collect data for both Dow Chemical and for the S&P 500 Stock Index, how to calculate monthly returns, and how to run a regression to calculate the beta.  The data for both Dow Chemical and for the S&P 500, fifty-one month end prices including dividends, are down loaded from Yahoo! Finance and loaded into an Excel worksheet which is used to calculate monthly returns.  The fifty monthly returns are regressed with the S&P Index return as the independent variable and the Dow returns as the dependent variable.  The returns are graphed to check that the analyst ran the regression properly.
Calculating The Beta Coefficient And Required Rate Of Return For Coca-Cola
Authors: Gardner John C. , McGowan Jr Carl B. , Moeller Susan E.
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we demonstrate how to compute the required rate of return for Coca-Cola using modern portfolio theory with data downloaded from the internet.  We demonstrate how to calculate monthly returns for the index and Coca-Cola and how to use the returns to compute the beta coefficient and the required rate of return using the downloaded data.  We show how to validate the data for the market index and the company and how to compute the returns using the dividend and stock split adjusted prices.  We demonstrate how to graph the characteristic line for Coca-Cola and use the graph to check that the regression was run correctly.  We use Coca-Cola and the S&P 500 Index in this paper, but any company listed on Yahoo! Finance can be used as the example.  This paper can be used as the basis of a lecture on intermediate corporate finance or investments to demonstrate the process using a real company.
Diagnostic Tools For The Elevator Business
Authors: Ehoff Jr Clemense
Published: March 2016

Although much has been written about elevator maintenance from the engineering perspective, little has been written about elevator maintenance from a business perspective.  This paper explores some of the business diagnostic tools useful in evaluating elevator maintenance performance and setting elevator performance objectives.  These tools may also be applied to other types of maintenance operations.
Starsearch Technologies: In Search Of Ways To Enhance Controls Using SAP In The Age Of A Risk-Based Approach To Auditing
Authors: Ragan Joseph M. , Perrotto Brian , Rizman Brian
Published: March 2016

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act passed in 2002 now constitutes an important part of the audit of a public firm.  This case looks at the processes to define, manage, and evaluate that process using an integrated enterprise resource planning system.  This case can be used in a variety of ways to discuss issues associated with auditing and the test of internal controls.  The case is appropriate for an undergraduate course in auditing and/or accounting information systems.  The case does not require access to an SAP R/3 server.  Student desires of real time learning can use either a live system or the practice capability within the case.  The scenario demonstrated uses the current version (ECC 6.0) of SAP.
Entrepreneurship In U.S. Auto Industry: Ford Stays Ahead
Authors: Mondal Wali I.
Published: March 2016

The big three U.S. auto manufacturers namely General Motors, Ford and Chrysler play an important role in the U.S. economy. The total direct and indirect employment by these manufacturers account for over 3 million jobs. Combined total sales before the onset of the recession of 2007-09, known as the “Great Recession” was $412 Billion. More than the employment and income effect, the auto companies with their manufacturing plants, dealership and service organizations dominate the American landscape. The big three auto makers performed well by conventional measurement of their revenues until the Great Recession hit in 2007. The purpose of this paper is to analyze how the revenues of General Motors and Chrysler plunged so deep as to force them file bankruptcy and seek government help in the form of Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP), and how Ford avoided it with a background of entrepreneurship that dates back to its founder, Henry Ford. Through his pioneering work, Schumpeter analyzed entrepreneurship using the production function approach and identified five factors which an entrepreneur uses for innovation and for changing the existing way of doing business. Schumpeter termed this process as “creative destruction”.  These five factors are: introduction of a new good; adoption of new inputs to produce a new good or the previously produced good; introduction of new technology; opening of a new market; and creating a new economic organization. The paper uses the five factor model of Schumpeter to analyze entrepreneurship in the U.S. auto industry and demonstrates that the tradition of innovation through new technology and new sources of supply was woven into the corporate structure of Ford Motor Company since it went public in 1956. The analysis shows that while Ford continued in the path of entrepreneurship, its American rivals failed to capture the deep implication of several significant turn of events including the gas crunch of 1979. This allowed Ford to stabilize its base, increase its market share and earn profit in the height of the Great Recession.