bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Effects of Hardware Performance, Application Design and Cognitive Demands on User Productivity and Perceptions
Authors: Sears Andrew , Jacko Julie A.
Published: April 2011

We report on an investigation of the effects of hardware performance, application design, and cognitive demands on user productivity and perceptions. This investigation focuses on clerical tasks typical of those activities that many lower level organization workers encounter. This was accomplished by engaging one hundred seventy-five representative participants in a field-based experiment. Participants worked one eight-hour shift and completed a variety of realistic tasks involving the creation and modification of documents using Microsoft® Word, Excel, and PowerPoint®. Motivation was ensured through the use of a quantity/quality-based financial incentive. An analysis of both task-completion times and error rates revealed significant effects for cognitive demands, with more demanding tasks resulting in longer task completion times and higher error rates. The analysis also confirmed that, under the right circumstances, providing individuals with a more powerful computing platform can lead to an increase in productivity. Participants also expressed a preference for more powerful computing platforms. Finally, the results provide strong support for the importance of navigational activities even when the users’ primary goal is not navigation. Implications for user training, task design, and future research are discussed.
The Impact of Computer Processor Speed on End-User Productivity
Authors: Wierschem David , Brodnax Tom
Published: April 2011

With each new improvement, the power, speed and capabilities of the computer have increased, as has the demand for computing power. Some managers have questioned the necessity of continuously upgrading computing technology when its efficient use is dictated more by the speed of the user than by the speed of the processor. These observations have led to the questioning of the value that continued processor speed upgrades add to end user productivity. This chapter identifies the impact that upgrades in processing speeds of personal computers have on end user productivity. A controlled lab experiment was conducted to measure the impact that processor speed had on student output. Based on the results of the experiment, it was observed that end user productivity (as measured by an increase in the amount of work completed) improved.
An Overview of Acquiring Cognitive Skills While Receiving Spreadsheet Training
Authors: Kruck S. E. , Maher John J. , Barkhi Reza
Published: April 2011

It is well documented that electronic spreadsheet models utilized in many professions to enhance decision-making frequently contain errors that have negative effects on the ultimate quality of decisions. Limited research has been published that systematically identifies potential reasons for the causes of these errors, and what procedures can be taken to minimize or eliminate them. Our research provides initial evidence concerning this problem area by investigating how several important cognitive skills are affected by formalized spreadsheet training. Results indicate that one cognitive skill, logical reasoning, significantly increases after a six-week training period.
Attracting and Retaining Online Buyers
Authors: Bridges Eileen , Goldsmith Ronald E. , Hofacker Charles F.
Published: April 2011

This chapter addresses similarities and differences in e-commerce needs for customers in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) marketplaces. We discuss how and why customers are attracted to online buying in general and to a supplier in particular for each of these types of markets. We further compare the characteristics of customers who choose to buy online with those who prefer to continue with more traditional means of purchasing, providing some possible reasons for observed differences. The customer’s online experience may influence both satisfaction and buying behavior, so we address the antecedents of the experience, including Web site design and the nature of customer involvement with the site. We note the importance of Web site efficacy (usefulness and ease of use) as well as experiential elements of online shopping in customer satisfaction and retention and make specific recommendations for marketing managers in firms offering a Web presence.
Global Internet Marketing Strategy
Authors: Iyer Gopalkrishnan R.
Published: April 2011

This chapter explores some key managerial issues in the development and implementation of a global Internet marketing strategy. While it appears that the Internet has opened up infinite possibilities for an integrated global marketing strategy, this chapter notes several infrastructural and cultural issues that limit the effectiveness of global strategies. This chapter offers insights on using the full potential of the Internet in the deployment of global marketing strategies, while being cognizant of various other realities and limitations. Several practical managerial recommendations are offered for crafting and deploying a global marketing strategy.
Interactive Brand Experience
Authors: Roberts Mary L.
Published: April 2011

E-marketing has evolved from an environment that was solely direct response to one that includes significant opportunities for brand development. Internet marketing uses a rich set of tools to create exceptional customer experience that results in strong relationships with the brand. Off-line tools like elements of the brand and image-building promotional programs are as important as ever in building brand equity. To those have been added online tools, including personalization, customization, cocreation, purchase-process streamlining, self-service, brand community, rich media, product self-design tools, and dynamic pricing. This gives the marketer a rich choiceboard of off-line and online techniques from which to select the most appropriate for the brand and any given promotional activity. The challenges are to select the most effective tools and then to execute flawlessly and seamlessly at all customer touchpoints to achieve the desired quality of customer experience.
Integrating Internet/Database Marketing for CRM
Authors: Rao Sally , O’Leary Chris
Published: April 2011

Firms have only just begun to fully use the Internet to obtain customer information in their database marketing processes to enhance customer relationship management (CRM). This chapter introduces a framework about how they can do this. Essentially, it argues that the advent of Internet/database marketing brings solutions to some of the difficulties in customer relationship management by providing one-to-one interactivity and customization. For example, the Internet offers benefits, such as increased consumer data collection accuracy and speed, cost savings in collecting data, greater interaction, and better relationships with customers. This chapter develops a framework for integrating the Internet and database marketing to help marketers improve customer relationship management through rigorous action research.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in E-Marketing
Authors: Leipnik Mark R. , Mehta Sanjay S.
Published: April 2011

The primary purpose of this chapter is to introduce the reader to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based technologies and applications within the broad domain of E-marketing. Numerous e-marketing examples are presented from diverse industries that will assist the reader in better understanding the various uses and applications of GIS technologies over the Internet. While the use of GIS technologies in e-marketing is in its infancy, it is hoped that the compilation of information through personal interviews, research articles, and personal visits to the various Web sites will assist in validation of the technology within the marketing paradigm.
Legal Online Marketing Issues
Authors: Zugelder Michael T.
Published: April 2011

This chapter will review several emerging issues associated with e-marketing from the perspective of Web sites including intellectual property, information management, and contracting. E-marketers in the years to come should not only consider the growing e-marketing opportunities but also be cognizant of the growing body of law governing marketing online. While the future may be bright and uniformity and fairness may prevail, current domestic and global law facing e-marketers is varied and the potential basis for liability. The law must be considered wherever e-marketers direct their efforts.
Regulatory and Marketing Challenges Between and U.S. and EU for Online Markets
Authors: Wijnholds Heiko D. , Little Michael W.
Published: April 2011

One of the biggest challenges marketers face with e-commerce is the regulatory environment, both at home and abroad. This is especially pertinent for international transactions between the U.S. and the European Union (EU). This chapter attempts to identify and categorize the major global issues involved. It also points out similarities and differences between the U.S. and the EU on such issues as regulation and self-regulation, taxation, jurisdiction and liability. The purpose of the chapter is to explain the various marketing challenges resulting from specific legal problems. Recommendations are developed for firms contemplating e-marketing to the EU.
Modeling the Effects of Attitudes Toward Advertising on the Internet
Authors: Manolis Chris , Averill Nicole , Brooks Charles M.
Published: April 2011

The notion that consumer attitudes toward products and advertisements affect consumer behavior is well-known in the marketing literature. Research and theory supporting this idea are based largely on traditional means of advertising (e.g., print ads, television commercials, etc.). Although research has begun to address if, when, and how the above process translates to Internet advertising, continued study is needed in this area. The following chapter depicts a study undertaken to further clarify the relationship between attitudes toward Internet advertising, brand attitudes, and purchase intentions. Given that various business models suggest future change and growth in sales and advertising revenues generated via the Internet, such a study is both necessary and valuable.
Mobile Commerce Security and Payment Methods
Authors: Lee Chung-wei , Kou Weidong , Hu Wen-Chen
Published: April 2011

Without secure commercial information exchange and safe electronic financial transactions over mobile networks, neither service providers nor potential customers will trust mobile commerce. Various mobile security procedures and payment methods have been proposed and applied to mobile commerce, and this chapter attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of them. A secure mobile commerce system must have the following properties: (i) confidentiality, (ii) authentication, (iii) integrity, (iv) authorization, (v) availability, and (vi) non-repudiation. This chapter discusses the security issues related to the following three network paradigms: (i) wireless local area networks, (ii) wireless wide area networks, and (iii) WAP. Among the many themes of mobile commerce security, mobile payment methods are probably the most important. A typical mobile payment process includes: (i) registration, (ii) payment submission, (iii) authentication and authorization by a content provider, and (iv) confirmation. This chapter also describes a set of standards for mobile payments.
Intrusion Detection and Vulnerability Analysis of Mobile Commerce Platform
Authors: Zhu Changhua , Pei Changxing
Published: April 2011

Intrusion detection and vulnerability analysis play the same important roles in wireless infrastructure as in wired infrastructure. In this chapter we briefly present the methods and technologies of intrusion detection and vulnerability analysis. Then we give the security issues in various wireless networking technologies, analyze the vulnerability of the enabling technologies for the mobile commerce platform, and propose a distributed wireless intrusion detection & vulnerability analysis (WID&VA) system that can help to address the identified security issues. Finally, we conclude this chapter and discuss the future trends.
A Comprehensive XML Based Approach to Trust Negotiations
Authors: Bertino Elisa , Ferrari Elena , Squicciarini Anna Cinzia
Published: April 2011

Trust negotiation is a promising approach for establishing trust in open systems like the Internet, where sensitive interactions may often occur between entities at first contact, with no prior knowledge of each other. In this chapter we present Trust-X, a comprehensive XML-based XML framework for trust negotiations, specifically conceived for a peer-to-peer environment. We also discuss the applicability of trust negotiation principles to mobile commerce. We introduce a variety of possible approaches to extend and improve Trust-X in order to fully support mobile commerce transactions and payments. In the chapter, besides presenting the Trust-X system, we present the basic principles of trust negotiation.
Security Issues and Possible Countermeasures for a Mobile Agent Based M-Commerce Application
Authors: Yeh Jyh-haw , Hu Wen-Chen , Lee Chung-wei
Published: April 2011

With the advent of wireless and mobile networks, the Internet is rapidly evolving from a set of connected stationary machines to include mobile handheld devices. This creates new opportunities for customers to conduct business from any location at any time. However, the electronic commerce technologies currently used cannot be applied directly since most were developed based on fixed, wired networks. As a result, a new research area, mobile commerce, is now being developed to supplement existing electronic commerce capabilities. This chapter discusses the security issues related to this new field, along with possible countermeasures, and introduces a mobile agent based solution for mobile commerce.
SeMoPS
Authors: Karnouskos Stamatis , Vilmos András , Ramfos Antonis , Csik Balázs , Hoepner Petra
Published: April 2011

Many experts consider that efficient and effective mobile payment solutions will empower existing e- and m-commerce efforts and unleash the true potential of mobile business. Recently, different mobile payment approaches appear to the market addressing particular needs, but up to now no global mobile payment solution exists. SEMOPS is a secure mobile payment service with an innovative technology and business concept that aims to fully address the challenges the mobile payment domain poses and become a global mobile payment service. We present here a detailed description of the approach, its implementation, and features that diversify it from other systems. We discuss on its business model and try to predict its future impact. The aim is to provide an insight of a new mobile payment service and discuss implementation decisions and scenarios.
Smart Card Based Protocol for Secure and Controlled Access of Mobile Host in IPv6 Compatible Foreign Network
Authors: Ghosh R.K. , Arora Abhinav , Barua Gautam
Published: April 2011

We present a proposal to combine the advantages of IPSec and smart cards in order to design a new protocol for secure bi-directional access of mobile hosts in an IPv6 foreign network using smart cards. The protocol, called Mobile Authentication Protocol (MAP), builds a security association needed for IPsec. An access router in a foreign network contacts an AAA (Authentication, Authorization and Accounting) server in order to authenticate and authorize a mobile host that approaches the router to access services. The access router then acts as a gateway for all subsequent service requirements of the mobile host. The access router interoperates between two protocols, namely, MAP to communicate with clients, and the AAA protocol to communicate with AAA servers. MAP works at the application layer and uses UDP as the transport layer. Therefore, MAP works independently of the data link layer protocols. It also supports features to establish a Local Security Association (LSA) between an access router and mobile hosts. The LSA is used to offer keying material to protect communication between a mobile host and an access router of a visited domain. The proposed design of the access router enables it to control access using IPv6 and to act as an interface between MAP and Diameter (as the AAA protocol). The network access control is secured by using IPSec by utilizing keying material offered by the LSA.
A Constraint Based Fuzzy Object Oriented Database Model
Authors: de Tre Guy , de Caluwe Rita
Published: April 2011

The objective of this chapter is to define a fuzzy object-oriented formal database model that allows us to model and manipulate information in a (true to nature) natural way. Not all the elements (data) that occur in the real world are fully known or defined in a perfect way. Classical database models only allow the manipulation of accurately defined data in an adequate way. The presented model was built upon an object-oriented type system and an elaborated constraint system, which, respectively, support the definitions of types and constraints. Types and constraints are the basic building blocks of object schemes, which, in turn, are used for defining database schemes. Finally, the definition of the database model was obtained by providing adequate data definition operators and data manipulation operators. Novelties in the approach are the incorporation of generalized constraints and of extended possibilistic truth values, which allow for a better representation of data(base) semantics.
Index Structures for Fuzzy Object-Oriented Database Systems
Authors: Helmer Sven
Published: April 2011

This chapter gives an overview of indexing techniques suitable for fuzzy object-oriented databases (FOODBSs). First, typical query patterns used in FOODBSs are identified, namely, single-valued, set-valued, navigational, and type hierarchy access. The description of the patterns does not follow a particular fuzzy object-oriented data model but is kept general enough to be used in different FOODBS contexts. Second, for each query pattern, index structures are presented that support the efficient evaluation of these queries. These range from standard index structures (like B-trees) to sophisticated access methods (like Join Index Hierarchies). Due to space constraints, an explanation of the basic techniques is given rather than an exhaustive description. However, the interested reader is supplied with a broad list of references for further reading. Finally, a summary and outlook conclude the chapter.
Surviving a Standards War
Authors: Dranove David , Gandal Neil
Published: April 2011

In April 1997 a consortium of hardware manufacturers and movie studios launched the DVD format. By that fall, electronics retailing giant Circuit City announced its intention to launch a partially incompatible format known as DIVX. This chapter assesses Circuit City’s strategy to establish the dominant standard for digital video technology. We identify several key principles that any firm must consider when deciding how to compete in a market with evolving standards. We argue that virtually all of these factors weighed in against Circuit City, so that its effort was destined to fail.
Information Transparency Hypothesis
Authors: Zhu Kevin
Published: April 2011

This chapter explores the private and social desirability of information transparency of a business-to-business (B2B) electronic market that provides an online platform for information transmission. The abundance of transaction data available on the Internet tends to make information more transparent in B2B electronic markets. In such a transparent environment, it becomes easier for firms to obtain information that may allow them to infer their rivals’ costs than in a traditional, opaque market. How then does this benefit firms participating in the B2B exchanges? To what extent does information transparency affect consumers and the social welfare in a broader sense? Focusing on the informational effects, this study explores firms’ incentives to join a B2B exchange by developing a game-theoretic model under asymmetric information. We then examine its effect on expected profits, consumer surplus, and social welfare. Our results challenge the “information transparency hypothesis” (that is, open sharing of information in electronic markets is beneficial to all participating firms). In contrast to the popular belief, we show that information transparency could be a double-edged sword. Although its overall effect on social welfare is positive, its private desirability is deeply divided between producers and consumers, and even among producers themselves.
Partnering for Perfection
Authors: Dai Qizhi , Kauffman Robert J.
Published: April 2011

New technological innovations have made it possible for new intermediaries to create value in business processes that involve the procurement of manufacturing and services supplies. Associated with these innovations is the emergence of business-to-business (B2B) electronic markets. These act as digital intermediaries that aim to reduce the transaction costs and mitigate the risks inherent in procurement. They improve buyers’ capabilities to search for attractive prices and also serve to increase the liquidity of sellers’ products. In this chapter, the authors explore the evolution of B2B e-market firms in terms of the strategies they employ to “perfect” their value propositions and business processes for the firms. This is a critical aspect of their attractiveness as business partners for the buyers and sellers that participate in their electronic marketplaces. The key theoretical perspectives of this work are adapted from economics and strategic management. They enable the authors to construct a “partnering for perfection” theory of strategic alliances in e-procurement markets. This perspective is captured in a series of inquiries about “why” and “when” B2B e-markets are observed to form alliances. The authors carry out an innovative econometric analysis that delivers empirical results to show the efficacy of the theory in interpreting real world events. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the implications of this work in academic and managerial terms.
Transparency Strategy in Internet-Based Selling
Authors: Granados Nelson , Gupta Alok , Kauffman Robert J.
Published: April 2011

Internet-based selling offers firms many new opportunities regarding the strategies for design of mechanisms to support consumer transactions. This chapter examines the use of transparency as a strategy for Internet-based selling for maximizing firms’ value from their selling activities on the World Wide Web. We define transparency as the extent to which a seller reveals private information to the consumer and explore three of its most often observed dimensions: product, price, and supplier transparency. We evaluate consumers’ responses to each kind of transparency in terms of their willingness-to-pay. We position the theory in the context of the online air travel industry to showcase its applicability and the power of its theoretical insights in an appropriate real world context. We also generalize our findings to suggest some managerial guidelines that will help managers who want to make choices regarding transparency strategy in other Internet-related business contexts.
Structure Evolution of B2B Enterprise Networks
Authors: Zhao Kexi , Shaw Michael J. , Xia Mu , Subramaniam Chandrasekar
Published: April 2011

This chapter analyzes the structural dynamics of multilateral business-to-business (B2B) relationships based on game theoretical approach. It focuses on the evolution of network structures initiated by three major forces: a neutral intermediary, a dominant supply chain partner, and an industry consortium. We show the typical enterprise network structures, identify the conditions that cause structure reconfiguration, and demonstrate the change of social welfare in the evolution process. Web-based technologies have changed the landscape of enterprise networks, and the proposed framework will provide an analytical understanding of the endogenous formation and dynamics of enterprise networks in the information era.
Perceived Risk and Escrow Adoption in Online Consumer-to-Consumer Auction Markets
Authors: Hu Xiaorui , Lin Zhangxi , Zhang Han
Published: April 2011

Escrow is an emerging trust service in online consumer-to-consumer auction markets in preventing Internet fraud. This chapter studies the effect of traders’ perceived risk on the adoption of online escrow service (OES). This research establishes decision-making models for both the honest trader and the monopolist OES provider. Perceived risk rate (PRR), a dynamic measure of perceived risk for online traders, is introduced to link the two decision-making models together. A calculative model for PRR is proposed, and the primary outcomes from the computer simulation for PRR measurement are presented. This chapter reveals that OES adoption is positively correlated to the estimated level of traders’ PRR. A higher PRR definitely leads to a higher OES adoption rate and hence reduces the Internet fraud in the auction markets. In addition, an overestimate of PRR leads to higher adoption rate, lower defrauding rate, and higher fraud blocking rate.
Economics of Immediate Gratification in Mobile Commerce
Authors: Tomak Kerem
Published: April 2011

In this chapter we attempt to build a bridge between mobile commerce and the emerging field of behavioral economics. We first provide examples from mobile commerce and link them to behavioral economics. We then build a stylized model to assess the impact of hyperbolic discounting on the profit-maximizing behavior of a monopolist firm. We find that the monopolist makes lower profits compared to exponential discounting consumers for low levels of (positive) network externalities. As the network externalities increase, first-period prices increase, second period prices decrease and the profits increase in equilibrium.
How to Compete in a Global Education Market Effectively
Authors: Huang Wayne , Yen David C. , Lin Z. X. , Huang J. H.
Published: April 2011

Computer-aided instruction (CAI) has existed for decades. Its third generation system using Internet and Web technologies to deliver university education (so called virtual universities) has been a hot research topic in recent years. However, few such virtual universities have been as successful as expected. Why didn’t eEducation systems turn out to be a silver bullet for virtual universities as expected? What are components and elements that have been missed in current eEducation systems? How can we learn from past experience and lessons so that a conceptual framework could be proposed to design a better next generation eEducation system that could help universities and corporations to gain competitive advantages in a global education market? This research paper tries to explore these important issues. Based upon a comprehensive literature review, a conceptual framework is proposed with the aim of guiding the design of a next generation eEducation system.
A Taxonomy of Intranet Implementation Strategies
Authors: Karlsbjerg Jan , Damsgaard Jan , Scheepers Rens
Published: April 2011

The mid-1990s marked the widespread adoption of intranets by organizations to facilitate communication between geographically dispersed organizational units. Since then the knowledge barriers to adoption have been lowered by the emergence of advanced development tools and later the availability of ready-made “intranet-in-a-box” packages as well as an elevation of the general awareness and knowledge of Internet/intranet technologies among users. Based on an explorative study of intranet implementations in nine Danish and two South African organizations, this article presents a taxonomy of four archetypes of intranet implementation processes. The dimensions of the framework are sourcing (in-house vs. outsourced implementation) and technology (development tools or packaged intranet products). Using the taxonomy, we classify the strategic choices of the case organizations and make recommendations for organizations using or producing intranet technology products.
Doing Business in Paradise
Authors: Kaars-Brown Michelle L. , Wang Chingning
Published: April 2011

This chapter presents findings from a case study of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) in the British West Indies area of the Caribbean. TCI is a tax haven that has worked to attract offshore financial firms such as trust, insurance, and financial management companies. All of these firms, which qualify as “information intensive,” are small in size (average 11 employees), engage in business on a global basis, and yet must compete while dealing with local infrastructure challenges. TCI is presented as the developmental context in which small businesses (largely owned or managed by foreigners from other cultures) must interpret and cope with national infrastructure challenges in this very small, young, rapidly growing island nation. Not surprisingly, we found that these firms share similar challenges with those in other developing countries; however, the perceptions of these challenges and how these small firms cope provide insights into the importance of small firms, small-scale foreign investment, and cross-national transfer of technology expectations.
An Integrated Model of E-Business Strategy
Authors: Ping Li Peter , Tung-lung Chang Steven
Published: April 2011

This chapter proposes a conceptual framework of e-business strategy. It argues that such a framework must be holistic, dynamic, and dialectical. This framework will assist both researchers and practitioners regarding the key issues of e-business strategy. Further, a case study of Haier from China reveals that all firms need to learn how to design effective e-business strategies that should be built on a sound organizational form or business model. The case of Haier also suggests that the local firms from the developing countries need to be creative in formulating e-business strategies in order to operate effectively in the underdeveloped e-business environment. Strategic alliance is especially critical for the local firms with regard to their e-business success.
An Empirical Study of the Relationship of IT Intensity and Organizational Absorptive Capacity on CRM Performance
Authors: Chen Ja-Shen , Ching Russell K.H.
Published: April 2011

In recent years, e-business has emerged as a mainstream business practice for engaging in global markets. To gain a competitive advantage in these highly competitive markets, many business organizations have turned to customer relationship management (CRM), an integrated system that draws upon the strengths of IT, to allow them to gain greater insights into their customers’ needs. This study examines the relationship of information technology (IT) intensity and organizational absorptive capacity to CRM practices and performance. Data collected through a survey of Taiwanese financial service companies generally suggest that CRM practices mediate the effects of IT intensity and organizational absorptive capacity on CRM performance. Thus, it behooves organizations that seek to compete in global markets to invest in developing both their IT infrastructure and organizational absorptive capacity, and apply these resources toward building their marketing intelligence and innovating products and services that meet their customers’ needs and expectations.
Privacy, Trust, and Behavioral Intensions in Electronic Commerce
Authors: Liu Chang , Marchewka Jack T. , Ku Catherine
Published: April 2011

Although the Internet has opened the door for businesses and consumers around the globe, many issues and challenges remain in order to take full advantage of this unprecedented opportunity. More specifically, businesses engaged in electronic commerce can take advantage of current technologies that allow them to collect vast amounts of information about their customers. Although many companies use this information to tailor products and services to improve their relationship with their customers, many people simply do not trust most organizations that require the exchange of personal information. Recent studies suggest that many people either decline to provide this information over the Internet or simply provide false information. As electronic commerce companies extend their reach globally, the issues concerningprivacy and trust must be extended beyond a single national culture. This study proposes and tests a Privacy-Trust-Behavioral Intention Model from a global perspective. More specifically, this study compares American and Taiwanese perceptions concerning online privacy and how it relates to the level of trust with a company’s electronic commerce Web site. In turn, the model suggests that trust is an important intermediary variable that influences behavioral intentions for online transactions.
Does Protecting Databases Using Perturbation Techniques Impact Knowledge Discovery?
Authors: Wilson Rick L. , Rosen Peter A.
Published: April 2011

Data perturbation is a data security technique that adds noise in the form of random numbers to numerical database attributes with the goal of maintaining individual record confidentiality. Generalized Additive Data Perturbation (GADP) methods are a family of techniques that preserve key summary information about the data while satisfying security requirements of the database administrator. However, effectiveness of these techniques has only been studied using simple aggregate measures (averages, etc.) found in the database. To compete in today’s business environment, it is critical that organizations utilize data mining approaches to discover information about themselves potentially hidden in their databases. Thus, database administrators are faced with competing objectives: protection of confidential data versus disclosure for data mining applications. This chapter empirically explores whether data protection provided by perturbation techniques adds a so-called Data Mining Bias to the database. While the results of the original study found limited support for this idea, stronger support for the existence of this bias was found in a follow-up study on a larger more realistic-sized database.
Simultaneous Database Backup Using TCP/IP and a Specialized Network Interface Card
Authors: Lloyd Scott J. , Peckham Joan , Li Jian , Yang Qing (Ken)
Published: April 2011

Data play an essential role in business today. Most, if not all, e-business applications are database driven, and data backup is a necessary element of managing data. Backup and recovery techniques have always been critical to any database and as real-time databases are used more often, real-time online backup strategies become critical to optimize performance. In this chapter, current backup methods are discussed and evaluated for response time and cost. A prototype device driver, RORIB (Real-time Online Remote Information Backup) is presented and discussed. An experiment is conducted comparing the performance, in terms of response time, of the prototype and several current backup strategies. RORIB provides an economic and efficient solution for real-time online remote backup. Significant improvement in response time is demonstrated using this prototype device driver when compared to other types of software driven backup protocols. Another advantage of RORIB is that the cost is negligible when compared to other hardware solutions for backup, such as Storage Area Networks (SAN) and Private Backup Networks (PBN). Additionally, this multilayered device driver uses TCP/IP, (Telecommunications Protocol/Internet Protocol) which allows the driver to be a “drop in” filter between existing hardware layers and thus reduces the implementation overhead and improves portability. Linux is used as the operating system in this experiment because of its open source nature and its similarity to UNIX. This also increases the portability of this approach. The driver is transparent to both the user and the database management system. Other potential applications and future research directions for this technology are presented. The goal of this work is to show a multifaceted approach that uses software and hardware to provide a cost effective and efficient real-time backup system for databases. This chapter explores the use of a specialized network card and corresponding software to provide service that is demonstrably better than current methods, due to cost containment, ease of operation, real time backup capabilities, or combinations of all of these. Prior to this research, the only option that approached this level of service was the use of an extremely expensive Private Backup Network (PBN) that does not adequately address the issue of obtaining real-time capabilities. Therefore, this research shows a true real-time system that is hardware and software independent and that can be used by any type of system to achieve the desired features.
Towards User-Oriented Enterprise Modeling for Interoperability
Authors: Mertins Kai , Knothe Thomas , Zelm Martin
Published: April 2011

This chapter introduces Enterprise Modeling from a user point of view as a means to support new approaches for the development of networked organizations. User-oriented Enterprise Modeling must be capable to capture a multitude of enterprise aspects and present them to users in their preferred ways. Such aspects are concerned with the business processes themselves, their integration in inter and intra organizational environments, as well as active knowledge management to support the enterprise operation as a whole. Today, these requirements are addressed separately, using single non-interoperating modeling tools. The chapter describes the structuring of user requirements as well as the initial design of the Unified Enterprise Modeling Language (UEML) developed in a research project sponsored by the European Commission. During this project, the feasibility and benefits of user-oriented modeling have been proven with a Web-based demonstrator integrating three commercial modeling tools. Broadening the generic approach taken will provide more solutions for interoperability in the extended enterprise environment.
An Evaluation of UML and OWL Using a Semiotic Quality Framework
Authors: Lin Yun , Sampson Jennifer , Hakkarainen Sari , Ding Hao
Published: April 2011

This chapter performs a systematic evaluation of two domain models and modeling languages – UML and OWL. A semiotic quality framework is used to evaluate a UML class model and an OWL ontology model in the travel domain. Next, an extended semiotic quality framework is used to evaluate the OWL language. Furthermore, we compare UML and OWL through the joint evaluation result. The comparison of the two languages highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the two modeling languages from a semiotic perspective. This evaluation is to assist researchers in the selection and justification of modeling languages in specific scenarios.
COGEVAL
Authors: Rockwell Stephen , Bajaj Akhilesh
Published: April 2011

Conceptual models have been evaluated along the dimensions of modeling complexity (how easy is it to create schemas given requirements?) and readability (how easy is it to understand the requirements by reading the model schema?). In this work, we present COGEVAL, a propositional framework based on cognitive theories to evaluate conceptual models. We synthesize work from the cognitive literature to develop the framework and show how it can be used to explain earlier empirical results as well as existing theoretical frameworks. We illustrate how COGEVAL can be used as a theoretical basis to empirically test readability. Unlike much of the earlier empirical work on readability, our approach isolates the effect of a model-independent variable (degree of fragmentation) on readability. From a practical perspective, our findings will have implications for both creators of new models and practitioners who use currently available models to create schemas.
Interoperability of B2B Applications
Authors: Nicolle Christophe , Yetongnon Kokou , Simon Jean-Claude
Published: April 2011

This paper presents a Web-based data integration methodology and tool framework, called X-TIME, for the development of Business-to-Business (B2B) design environments and applications. X-TIME provides a data model translator toolkit based on an extensible meta model and XML. It allows the creation of adaptable semantic-oriented meta models to support the design of wrappers or reconciliators (mediators), taking into account characteristics of interoperable information systems, such as extensibility and composability. X-TIME defines a set of meta types which correspond to g meta level semantic descriptors of data models found in the Web. The meta types are organized in a generalization hierarchy to capture semantic similarities among modeling concepts of interoperable systems. We show how to use the X-TIME methodology to build cooperative environments for B2B platforms involving the integration of Web data and services.
Possibility Theory in Protecting National Information Infrastructure
Authors: Baskerville Richard , Portougal Victor
Published: April 2011

Possibility theory is an alternative to probability theory as a basis for security management in settings where information resources are elements of national information infrastructure. Probability theory is founded on the assumption that one cannot totally rule out an intrusion. Possibility theory operates under a contrasting assumption. While persistent, well-supported, and highly professional intrusion attacks will have a higher probability of success, operating instead against the possibility of intrusion places defenders in a theoretical framework more suitable for high-stakes protection. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce this alternative quantitative approach to information security evaluation. It is suitable for information resources that are potential targets of intensive professional attacks. This approach operates from the recognition that information resource security is only an opinion of officials responsible for security.
End User Computing Research Issues and Trends (1990-2000)
Authors: Downey James P. , Bartczak Summer E.
Published: April 2011

During the 1980s and into the early 1990s, end user computing (EUC) was reported to be among the key concerns facing managers and organizations. Is EUC still an important topic? This study examines academic research during this period. A research-focused framework is offered to provide a conceptual structure for examining the trends and issues in EUC. This framework is parsimonious and also allows a comprehensive classification of end user computing’s three major dimensions: end user, technology, and organization. The study examines every article from five leading information systems (IS) journals (ISR, MISQ, JMIS, I&M, and JEUC) for the 11 years 1990-2000. The results indicate that there has been no diminishing of EUC interest and studies during this time, either overall or in any journal or dimension. A discussion of emerging trends, important themes, and journal differences concludes this examination.
The Role of Personal Goal and Self-Efficiency in Predicting Computer Task Performance
Authors: Yi Mun Y. , Im Kun S.
Published: April 2011

Computer task performance is an essential driver of end user productivity. Recent research indicates that computer self-efficacy (CSE) is an important determinant of computer task performance. Contrary to the significant interest in understanding the role of CSE in predicting computer task performance, little attention has been given to understanding the role of personal goal (PG), which can be as powerful as or more powerful than CSE in predicting and determining computer task performance. Employing CSE and PG, the present research develops and validates a theoretical model that predicts individual computer task performance. The model was tested using PLS on data from an intensive software (Microsoft Excel) training program, in which 41 MBA students participated. Results largely support the theorized relationships of the proposed model and provide important insights into how individual motivational beliefs influence computer skill acquisition and task performance. Implications are drawn for future research and practice.
Measurement of Perceived Control in Information Systems
Authors: Morris Steven A. , Marshall Thomas E.
Published: April 2011

The importance of perceptions of control in explaining human behavior and motivation has been identified, investigated, and found to be significant in several disciplines. This study reports on an exploratory investigation assessing perceived control within the information systems domain. A survey instrument was developed based on the research literature to assess perceived control as a multi-dimensional construct. The survey was administered to 241 subjects. The results were analyzed to produce the following five factors that represent a user’s perceptions of control when working with an interactive information system: (1) timeframe, (2) feedback signal, (3) feedback duration, (4) strategy, and (5) metaphor knowledge.
The Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Ma Qingxiong , Liu Liping
Published: April 2011

The technology acceptance model proposes that perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness predict the acceptance of information technology. Since its inception, the model has been tested with various applications in tens of studies and has become a most widely applied model of user acceptance and usage. Nevertheless, the reported findings on the model are mixed in terms of statistical significance, direction, and magnitude. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis based on 26 selected empirical studies in order to synthesize the empirical evidence. The results suggest that both the correlation between usefulness and acceptance and between usefulness and ease of use are somewhat strong. However, the relationship between ease of use and acceptance is weak, and its significance does not pass the fail-safe test.
Applying Strategies to Overcome User Resistance in a Group of Clinical Managers to a Business Software Application
Authors: Adams Barbara , Berner Eta S. , Wyatt Joni Rousse
Published: April 2011

User resistance is a common occurrence when new information systems are implemented within health care organizations. Individuals responsible for overseeing implementation of these systems in the health care environment may encounter more resistance than trainers in other environments. It is important to be aware of methods to reduce resistance in end users. Proper training of end users is an important strategy for minimizing resistance. This article reviews the literature on the reasons for user resistance to health care information systems and the implications of this literature for designing training programs. The other principles for reducing resistance—communication, user involvement, strategic use of consultants—are illustrated with a case study involving training clinical managers on business applications. Individuals responsible for health care information system implementations should recognize that end user resistance can lead to system failure and should employ these best practices when embarking on new implementations.
The Agent-Oriented Methodology MAS-CommonKADS
Authors: Iglesias Carlos A. , Garijo Mercedes
Published: April 2011

This chapter introduces the main concepts of the methodology MAS-CommonKADS that extends object-oriented and knowledge engineering techniques for the conceptualisation of multi-agent systems. MAS-CommonKADS defines a set of models (Agent Model, Task Model, Expertise Model, Coordination Model, Communication Model, Organisation Model, and Design Model) that together provide a model of the problem to be solved. Each of the components of the model is a generic component for the sake of reusability. Readers familiar with object-oriented analysis will find it easy to apply most of the techniques of MAS-CommonKADS in the development of multi-agent systems and will be introduced to the application of knowledge engineering techniques for specifying the knowledge of the agents.