bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming strategic briefing into project briefs
Authors: Ryd Nina , Fristedt Sven
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to describe the process of the client's operationally determined requirements as they are translated into a strategic brief and how this is then transformed into a number of general briefs (outline briefs – four in total) adapted to various project categories so as to eventually be implemented in approximately 500 projects (through project briefs) distributed throughout Sweden. In addition, there is a description of the procurement procedure, which was directly based on briefs and the collaboration between the construction project's various players during the design phase, with the aim of clarifying how the development business's requirements were tested, developed and gradually implemented in the form of physical solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Two research methods have been applied: a broad (comprehensive) case study based on a workshop, interviews and studies of project documentation; and literature studies with the aim of generalising and analysing the client's brief work on the basis of the case studied.

Findings

A number of factors (11 in total) of importance to implementation of the dynamic briefing are described and discussed in relation to the theoretical discussion in the field (theoretical framework). The case study supports the picture of briefing taking place as part of a dynamic process during which all players are responsible for adopting the development operation's overall goals, developing them and realising them in the best possible way in the individual project.

Practical implications

The case study describes how business requirements are translated and developed during a collaborative process involving client and contractor – the brief's importance as procurement data. Experience from this case study may also be of benefit to other client organisations that are to implement national/international projects.

Originality/value

The case study describes new knowledge of how national change processes are realised as well as collaboration between client and contractor. The paper offers insights for the academic community, professionals in the construction industry and clients involved in large‐scale facilities and change processes.
The influence of partnering and procurement on subcontractor involvement and innovation
Authors: Erik Eriksson Per , Dickinson Michael , Khalfan Malik M.A.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate how a client's cooperative procurement procedures influence subcontractor involvement, value creation, and innovation in the construction of complex facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were collected through interviews, surveys and participation in workshops during a longitudinal action research case study. The case project was located in Sweden and concerned the construction of plant facilities for manufacturing of pharmaceutical products.

Findings

The case study findings reveal that the client's procurement procedures affect the level of subcontractor involvement and integration, but that this does not necessarily result in increased subcontractor value creation and innovation in the construction process.

Research limitations/implications

Since the empirical results are based on data collected from only one case project, the possibilities for generalisations are limited.

Practical implications

Clients' procurement procedures heavily affect subcontractor involvement, but in order to increase subcontractor contributions to innovation and value creation the actors should adopt a long‐term perspective and actively work to establish an innovation‐friendly climate.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on the often‐neglected importance of subcontractors and their contributions to innovation and value creation.
Modes of condominium management: a principal‐agent perspective
Authors: Yip Ngai‐ming , Chang Chin‐oh , Hung Tzu‐ying
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Condominium is a dominant form of home ownership in metropolitan areas within Asia. Yet managing and up‐keeping such homes poses a challenge to most condominium owners, with larger condominiums equipped with sophisticated facilities becoming increasingly popular. This paper attempts to develop a model, based on a principal‐agent theoretical perspective, which provides a conceptually vigorous representation of condominium management modes: owner‐management; direct labour and third party agent‐managed modes.

Design/methodology/approach

Parallel surveys were conducted in Taipei and Hong Kong to offer empirical evidence of the model.

Findings

From the logistic analysis which this paper conducts, it is argued that not only does the choice of management mode reflect the quest for better management service: the mediation effect of agency costs between the lay members of home owner organisations and their leadership, as well as issues between the owners and the professional management agents, is also significant.

Originality/value

Findings in this paper would help to enhance understanding of the practices used in condominium management and the factors that influence the choice of management mode.
A review and classification of academic research in facilities management
Authors: Ventovuori Tomi , Lehtonen Tero , Salonen Anssi , Nenonen Suvi
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review, evaluate and classify the academic research that has been published in facilities management (FM) and to analyse how FM research and practice are linked.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on literature review and qualitative research. Qualitative data have been gathered from academic papers published in FM‐related journals (i.e. Facilities, Journal of Facilities Management, and the Nordic Journal of Surveying and Real Estate Research – Special Series) and in conjunction with academic conferences (i.e. European Research Symposium in Facilities Management and the CIB W70 Symposium) between 1996–2005.

Findings

When analysing empirical research in FM, research papers can be classified according to the FM topics examined in them, the type of research performed and data‐gathering methods used in the study reported, the background of the authors, research field, and research sector. Evaluation of academic papers indicates that the reporting of the methods used, data collection and limitations is inadequate in many academic papers. However, to draw valid conclusions and align FM research, methodical issues should be clearly delineated in research papers. In order to progress, the FM discipline must increasingly employ hypothesis testing and more robust data analysis techniques.

Research limitations/implications

This research offers new insights into the current state of FM research and sheds light on the development steps needed in future. One limitation of this paper is that it does not include all the empirical research that has been done in FM.

Originality/value

This paper helps article writers to take into account the important issues brought up in literature when reporting the results of their research in order to improve validity and reliability of their studies.
The relationship of geographical indications with real property valuation and management
Authors: Blackwell Martin
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship of geographical indications (GIs) with real property valuation and management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers existing and developing legal frameworks and current guidance with practical examples to support points made.

Findings

GIs have been overlooked to date in valuation guidance yet have a relevance that needs to be addressed. They are also relevant to practice and theory in other areas, for example compulsory purchase and planning.

Research limitations/implications

The paper identifies issues and problems: it does not suggest complete solutions, which in particular areas will need to be based on further research.

Practical implications

The paper has a high degree of practical relevance.

Originality/value

The paper is believed to be the first to consider the implications of GIs on real property valuation and management. The research identifies a gap in present valuation guidance and the potential for inconsistency in approach. The paper highlights the importance and relevance of GIs.
Embedding risk management: structures and approaches
Authors: Fraser Ian , Henry William
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to report research into ways by which companies identify risks and embed risk management and control procedures and also to report on interactions between internal audit and audit committees and their contributions to risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

The first section of the paper comprises a review of the literature on risk management and the roles played by internal audit and audit committees. The paper then reports the results of a series of interviews with officers in UK plcs and external auditors on the issues identified from the literature.

Findings

There was agreement that, while parent boards have ultimate responsibility, the ownership of risks must reside with management at lower levels. Companies tended to adopt a multi‐procedural approach to developing consistent risk management procedures. Internal auditors were believed to have a role to play but concerns were expressed about expertise and independence. The paper recommends a split of the internal audit and risk management functions to preserve internal audit independence and clarify internal audit roles. Audit committees are increasingly involved in risk management but there are doubts as to whether they have the time and expertise to undertake more than high level risk reviews. The paper, therefore, recommends that separate risk committees should be established to direct risk management, with audit committees adopting a watching brief over the process.

Originality/value

The Turnbull Report emerged against a background of growing demand for assurance on risk management and control effectiveness and the approach adopted has been endorsed by the Turnbull Review Group. This paper is a timely evaluation of the work being done by UK plcs in this area and indicates that there are issues to be resolved before risk management is fully embedded in company operations.
The use of ICTs in regional conflicts, war, and terrorism
Authors: Jefferson Theresa
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how ICTs are used in regional conflicts, war and terrorism. It details some of the most common uses and provides some thoughts for researchers in the area

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews the most common uses of ICTs in regional conflicts, war and terrorism.

Findings

It gives examples of the role ICTs have in influencing public opinion and foreign policy and conducting military, terrorist, and aid operations.

Originality/value

Provides insights for future researchers.
Knowledge sharing: developing the digital repository of SIPS
Authors: Doctor Gayatri
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the need for a digital repository of SIP reports and how the Digital Repository of SIP reports was set up using the Greenstone open source software at the ICFAI Business School, Ahmedabad. In management education, students have to undergo a Summer Internship Project (SIP) in organizations to enhance learning and experience current work practices. Information of these projects needs to be captured and maintained in a digital repository to enable knowledge sharing and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The phases involved in the creation of the digital repository are described. Steps involved in the Collection development using the GLI tool, “Greenstone Librarian Interface” are also described.

Findings

Installation of the digital repository is simple, Gathering of documents into the repository, enriching them with metadata, setting up of appropriate search indexes has to be done for efficient retrieval of information. Some knowledge of computers and Greenstone software is essential.

Research limitations/implications

Once the digital repository is created it needs to be maintained. Staff need to be trained for correct uploading of documents and submitting metadata into the repository. Students need to be aware that the SIP report document must be a single document and must be given metadata in order to improve discoverability.

Practical implications

Guidelines are provided to assist setting up of a digital repository using the Greenstone software. Retrieval of information and knowledge sharing regarding the summer projects, the organisations where projects were done, the type of projects, etc., are possible with the creation of the digital repository.

Originality/value

The digital repository provides ICFAI Business School, Ahmedabad with a central facility for systematic archiving of summer internship project reports and an insight to the organizations which offer projects, the type of projects that they offer, the applicability of the projects students have done etc. The digital repository is of use to students, faculties and the organizations. Management institutions, especially in India, should be encouraged to develop digital repositories of summer internship projects and share knowledge.
The learning conference
Authors: Ravn Ib
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to call attention to the fact that conferences for professionals rely on massive one‐way communication and hence produce little learning for delegates – and to introduce an alternative, the “learning conference”, that involves delegates in fun and productive learning processes.

Design/methodology/approach

A typical full‐day conference is analyzed. It has six hours of podium talk and twenty‐five minutes for delegates to become involved. What model of learning can possibly lie behind this? The transfer model, which assumes learners to be empty vessels. An alternative view is that conference delegates are active professionals in search of inspiration, and they also want to share knowledge with their peers at the conference. A theory of the conference as a forum for mutual inspiration and human co‐flourishing is proposed, as are four design principles for a learning conference: presentations must provide concise input; the conference host must introduce processes that help delegates; interpret the input in the light of their ongoing concerns; talk about their current projects; and share knowledge with the other delegates.

Findings

Six learning processes for use during conferences are described: individual reflection; the buzz dyad; “You have won two consultants, free of charge”; facilitated group work; the knowledge exchange; and lunch with gaffer tape.

Originality/value

This paper introduces learning theory and learning techniques into an educational context which has resisted innovation, the professional conference. It offers alternatives to wall‐to‐wall lecturing: some simple processes for involving delegates so as to help them derive inspiration from the material presented and from each other.
Leading change in the South African district health service
Authors: Dovey Ken , Strydom Amy , Penderis Barbara , Kemp Peter
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The paper sets out to explore the leadership processes and dynamics of change management in a fragmented, and resource‐poor, health service in an impoverished rural region in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines an action research process aimed at assisting the stakeholders of two rural clinics to integrate psychiatric care into the Primary Health Care service that they offer their respective communities. This involved the transformation of existing practices through a form of praxis that involved learning from action and acting on learning.

Findings

The findings of the paper relate to the role of leadership in the facilitation of transformational learning in team‐based social action. Four areas of leadership responsibility are highlighted: the transformation of inappropriate mental models; the development of strategic resilience; the shifting of thelocusof control of stakeholders to a more internal position; and the creation of a social environment in which intangible capital resources are generated and leveraged in the collective interest.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is subject to the limitations of potential bias and distortion in action research. Although the “objective” evidence of the integration of psychiatric services atPelsrusandKwanomzamoclinics exists, the portrayal of the learning processes through which this was achieved could have been influenced unwittingly by the authors' own knowledge and other interests.

Practical implications

The paper endorses the educational importance of work‐based projects through which strong tacit leadership knowledge bases can be developed in health sector personnel.

Originality/value

This paper has attempted to share the effectiveness of work‐ and project‐based learning in district health teams in South Africa. In particular, it has outlined how the learning strategy of the module leverages the team structure of the district health management units in order to create and exploit the social and morale capital resources that are potentially available through such a structure and the covenantal culture that it spawns. Furthermore, an attempt has been made to show how these resources are leveraged in the generation of mission‐pertinent tacit knowledge that is then converted by project stakeholders into explicit knowledge forms that can be used more effectively in framing subsequent strategic action.
Factors influencing online music purchase intention in Taiwan
Authors: Chu Ching‐Wen , Lu Hsi‐Peng
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an explanation of factors influencing online music purchase intention of Taiwanese early adopter of online music, which can help the online music practitioners of Taiwan to develop better market strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical survey was used to test the hypotheses. Data were collected from a total of 302 online Taiwanese early adopters of online music. A structural equation modeling (SEM) is proposed to assess the relationships of the research model.

Finding

The findings in this paper show that the perceived value of online music is a significant factor in predicting the purchaser intention of buying online music in Taiwan. Also, the beneficial factor of the perceived usefulness and playfulness are identified in addition to the sacrificing factor of the perceived price for assessing the value. Moreover, purchasers and potential purchasers differ in the determinants underlying the perceptions of value, which customers hold towards online music.

Practical implications

The results in the paper facilitate to understand what encourages and impedes the purchase intention of early adopters of online music in Taiwan.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is to establish a theoretical model incorporating the value‐intention framework into technology acceptance model to investigate the purchase behavior of early adopter of online music in Taiwan. The results of this study help online music practitioners of Taiwan and other Asian countries culture similar to Taiwan to create a success business model.
The application of physiological observation methods to emotion research
Authors: Chamberlain Laura , Broderick Amanda J.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine consumer emotions and the social science and observation measures that can be utilised to capture the emotional experiences of consumers. The paper is not setting out to solve the theoretical debate surrounding emotion research, rather to provide an assessment of methodological options available to researchers to aid their investigation into both the structure and content of the consumer emotional experience, acknowledging both the conscious and subconscious elements of that experience.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of a wide range of prior research from the fields of marketing, consumer behaviour, psychology and neuroscience are examined to identify the different observation methods available to marketing researchers in the study of consumer emotion. This review also considers the self report measures available to researchers and identifies the main theoretical debates concerning emotion to provide a comprehensive overview of the issues surrounding the capture of emotional responses in a marketing context and to highlight the benefits that observation methods offer this area of research.

Findings

This paper evaluates three observation methods and four widely used self report measures of emotion used in a marketing context. Whilst it is recognised that marketers have shown preference for the use of self report measures in prior research, mainly due to ease of implementation, it is posited that the benefits of observation methodology and the wealth of data that can be obtained using such methods can compliment prior research. In addition, the use of observation methods cannot only enhance our understanding of the consumer emotion experience but also enable us to collaborate with researchers from other fields in order to make progress in understanding emotion.

Originality/value

This paper brings perspectives and methods together to provide an up to date consideration of emotion research for marketers. In order to generate valuable research in this area there is an identified need for discussion and implementation of the observation techniques available to marketing researchers working in this field. An evaluation of a variety of methods is undertaken as a point to start discussion or consideration of different observation techniques and how they can be utilised.
Using abrasive flow machining to seal and finish conformal channels in laminated tooling
Authors: Williams Robert E. , Walczyk Daniel F. , Dang Hoang T.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of sealing and finishing conformal cooling/heating channels in profiled edge laminae (PEL) rapid tooling (RT) using abrasive flow machining (AFM).

Design/methodology/approach

Sample PEL tools constructed of both aluminum and steel were designed and assembled for finishing by AFM. A simple design of experiments approach was utilized. Output parameters of interest included the material removal, surface roughness improvement and, most importantly, the ability to withstand a pressurized oil leak test.

Findings

AFM significantly improved the finish in the channels for aluminum and steel PEL tooling. Leak testing found that AFM also improved the sealing of both stacks at static pressures up to 690 kPa. The steel tooling appeared to benefit more from the AFM process. It has been postulated that the primary cause of the sealing is the plastic deformation of workpiece material in the plowing mode.

Research limitations/implications

The conformal channels studied had a simple cross‐sectional geometry and straight runs. The PEL tools were only made of two materials. However, the research results show great promise for large RT, including thermoforming and composite forming molds where temperature control is a critical issue.

Practical implications

The ability to seal the interfaces between individual laminae expands the potential application of AFM tremendously. AFM also has the potential to finish a wide range of internal passages in a variety of RT.

Originality/value

AFM has been previously used for finishing stereolithography prototypes. This is the first known attempt to seal and finish channels in laminated RT using AFM.
Fabrication of a calcium phosphate scaffold with a three dimensional channel network and its application to perfusion culture of stem cells
Authors: Xu Shanglong , Li Dichen , Lu Bingheng , Tang Yiping , Wang Chaofeng , Wang Zhen
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to adopt rapid prototyping (RP) technology to fabricate self‐hardening calcium phosphate composite (CPC) scaffolds with a controlled internal channel network to facilitate nutrient supplying and cell growth using RP technique and investigate their in vitro performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Porous scaffolds should possess branched channels to ensure uniform cell feeding and even flow of culture medium to promote uniform cell attachment and growth. A new three dimensional (3D) flow channel structure has been designed based on conversation of energy and flow. The CPC scaffold possessing such a channel network was made by indirect solid free form fabrication. Negative model of scaffold was designed by Pro/E software and its epoxy resin mold was fabricated on a sterolithography apparatus and the CPC slurry was filled in these molds. After CPC was self hardened, the mold was baked. The mold was removed by pyrolysis and then the designed scaffold was obtained.

Findings

The sizes of the fabricated scaffolds were consistent with the designed. The average compressive strength of the scaffold is approximately 6.0 MPa. Computational fluid dynamics and perfusion culture results showed that such a 3D flow channel arrangement would lead to a more uniform distribution of flow and cells and good transportation of nutrients.

Research limitations/implications

The size errors of fabricated scaffolds could not escape and perfusion methods were difficult to control.

Originality/value

The basic design concept presented showed great promise for use in bone tissue engineering and fabrication method enhanced the versatility of scaffold fabrication. The designed scaffold structure made it possible to keep integrality of the scaffold when direct observation cells inside the channel by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
“Casing the joint”
Authors: Workman Barbara
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to explore factors that impinge on the “insider‐researcher” (IR) when undertaking a work‐based learning project, which will result in the creation of a context analysis framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, interpretative approach with the IR as central to the research process, together with data from students work‐based projects, research literature and texts, and an academic advisers' focus group.

Findings

Themes of benefits and constraints identified the organisation, the clients and co‐workers and the IR benefiting from work‐based projects. The positionality and personal attributes of the IR may be a constraint. Of major consideration are ethical issues arising from the project process. Academics' concerns include student supervision, the impact on the IR, and factors affecting change and project processes.

Research limitations/implications

A small study constrained by the researcher being central to the data and therefore introducing potential bias to the interpretation.

Practical implications

The creation of a context analysis framework as a tool to assist the work‐based student, the academic and the workplace in preparing to implement a work‐based project.

Originality/value

No similar analysis tool has been published. This can contribute significantly to the work‐based curriculum. The issues that concern researchers, academic practitioners and work‐based students during a work‐based project have not been previously investigated. A good practice guide for projects can result from this.
“Plumbed‐in performance improvement”: accelerating improvement and adaptation in organizations
Authors: Meekings Alan , Povey Simon
Published: March 2007

Purpose

Through an illustrative case study, the paper seeks to demonstrate the implementation and use of new performance improvement software.

Design/methodology/approach

Past research in the field of performance measurement and management has tended to focus on what to measure. The reality, though, is that most of the value in performance measurement lies not in the measures selected, nor even in how the data are presented visually (using SPC where applicable) but in the decisions and actions that flow from insights provided. Derivingmaximum valuefrom performance measurement requires linking powerful insights from data to appropriate decision making, action and feedback.

Findings

Especially in situations of fast‐moving, operational data, it is possible to improve rates of innovation, adaptation and learning in organizations dramatically through a combination of: implementing the new genre of performance improvement software that currently has no name; structuring and enabling the performance planning and review process; and creating the necessary updraught of management attention.

Originality/value

This paper describes the impact of a new genre of performance improvement software implemented alongside novel concepts in performance planning and review. Performance measurement and management frameworks are analogous to new washing machines in the sense that they need to be properly plumbed‐in, connected‐up and switched‐on before they can deliver value. Given that achieving faster rates of innovation, adaptation and learning is now widely recognized as a key challenge for the coming decade, the message is that “plumbed‐in performance improvement” offers huge potential benefits for organizations that spot the opportunity first.
Managing and measuring the intangibles to tangibles value flows and conversion process: Romanian Space Agency case study
Authors: Cotora Liviu
Published: March 2007

Purpose

Converting knowledge or competency into long‐term business value is, in practice, a far more difficult process than in theory. While developing and implementing knowledge or competence management solutions, companies experience difficulties in measuring the contribution of their intangibles to business results and, what is more critical, companies fail in their efforts to reproduce the conditions and the processes that have unlocked the value creation potential of their intangibles. Building and maintaining large skills inventories, designing complex intranets, keeping large terabytes of knowledge or implementing performing document‐management systems and other technology solutions, do not necessarily lead to an improved cash flow stream. It simply brings inefficiency and leads to limited value creation as most of these solutions fail to identify the value‐creation patterns or prove the link with organizational performance. What value‐contributions bring these terabytes of information to the production process, or to the sales process or to a cash flow stream? This paper seeks to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a case study to describe an approach and a methodology to identify and record the value flows (value‐adding sequences) among knowledge, competencies, partnerships and operational systems and processes, and to measure their contributions to the overall corporate value creation process.

Findings

The case study findings demonstrate that the use of the described methodology increased the knowledge base, reducing software implementation cycle time and increasing competitive advantage. Building a strong knowledge base has freed up 20 percent of consultant time and reduced the competence development time for new employees.

Originality/value

The paper presents and demonstrates a methodology that can help organization build and exploit knowledge bases more quickly.
A benchmarking study of experiences with electronic government
Authors: Al‐Mashari Majed
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse several reported case studies of electronic government (EG) application to uncover the driving forces behind EG application, the approaches and methods adopted and the levels of success of their associated initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Six countries were chosen as potential cases for this study. The selection was made so that the cases can be comparable to each other, whilst in the same time provide richness to the study in terms of their coverage of the different EG dimensions.

Findings

This study shows comparison of various EG methodologies employed by a selected group of six countries and concludes with criteria for improvement in EG services implementation based on a thorough study of EG strategies and past major project implementations.

Practical implications

The level of success posted by selected cases is different amongst implementers, which leads to the need for benchmarking a variety of EG experiences in different contexts and cultures.

Originality/value

The paper provides a review of EG relevant literature, and a detailed discussion of the cases and their review analysis. This kind of benchmarking study helps uncover the factors of success, the priorities of implementation in EG initiatives, and the effective approaches to be followed.
The letter of the law: telecommunications and the corporate person
Authors: Calabrese Andrew
Published: March 2007

Purpose

This paper provides a brief historical sketch of cable and telephone regulation in the USA, the purpose of which is to demonstrate the legacy that precedes contemporary debates over competing models of digital networks, and to question the justifications offered for regulating such networks as private property with no corresponding public service obligations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relies on historical research to examine the rationales that have been used for cable and telephone regulation, based on the use of legal documents (statutes, regulations, court rulings).

Findings

The historic justifications that have been used to protect telecommunications from competition amounts to what is known as “corporate welfare”. Today's cable and telephone networks, and the accumulated wealth of the corporations that own them, would not have been possible without the willingness of regulators to favor particular firms and business models, and to protect these firms from competition under the rationale that these networks are “natural monopolies”.

Originality/value

Today's digital networks have been built on the wealth and market dominance that was made possible by protection from competition and the guaranteed rates of return that regulation permitted. Consequently, the property rights that have been afforded to network owners should be accompanied by responsibilities, namely, in the form of public service obligations.
Experimental educational networking on open research issues
Authors: Vezzoli Carlo , Sciama Dalia
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the hypothesis that it is fruitful to study new areas within research for sustainability, through experimental education courses, that are based on international and multilateral (transcultural) learning processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This way of introducing education into open research issues is presented throughout the experiences and the results of the DECOS campus network (Design in Emerging COntexts for Sustainability). This is an informal expert network on higher design education which involves university campuses from emerging and industrialized countries. The learning process established among those universities has been yearly assessed by the didactic observatory of the Politecnico di Milano University, considering also the feedbacks of the various involved professors.

Findings

The paper presents both the opportunities of such learning processes and the results actually achieved (designed) by the students, i.e. the students' sustainable system concepts.

Practical implications

The described experience encourages its continuing and its further implementation and dissemination.

Originality/value

The originality this experience is due to the combination of both experimental education and open‐front research issues and design for sustainability with transcultural learning processes.
Do we really want all learning to be experiential? The hot stove effect
Authors: Cunningham Ian
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To expose the errors of assuming that all experiential learning is good and to challenge naïve use of Kolb's learning cycle. The article also provides advice to organizations on how to develop people where they are not taking action on real needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on work done in a variety of organizations around how people actually learn.

Findings

People often need to overcome the errors of experiential learning.

Practical implications

The article has real practical implications for leaders/managers and learning and development professionals as it shows how to overcome the limiting effects of experiential learning. It offers a practical approach to developing people in organizations.

Originality/value

The article will be of value to managers and learning specialists as it raises important issues about how to promote effective learning in organizations.
CHANGE: a concept of organizational learning and change
Authors: Marques Joan
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This article presents a new concept of organizational learning and subsequent organizational change, called CHANGE.

Design/methodology/approach

This concept was developed as a result of workshops executed for Los Angeles based business leaders; employees in for‐profit as well as non‐profit organizations, and three in‐depth interviews with business leaders. The presented concept reviews and elaborates on six steps toward change, resulting from a practice of continuous surveying and consequential questioning of existing rules and processes. The article also presents a simple figure to explain this process.

Findings

Each letter of the word CHANGE represents a step in a continuously applicable process. These steps are: checking; harvesting; advising; navigating; granting; and executing.

Originality/value

One thing that became very clear throughout the workshops and the interviews used for data collection toward this paper is, that CHANGE will work in for‐profit, non‐profit, small, medium sized, and large corporations if implemented with the right constituents and on a continuous basis.
The relationship between implied volatility and autocorrelation
Authors: Faff Robert W. , McKenzie Michael D.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper empirically assesses the determinants of conditional stock index autocorrelation with particular emphasis on the impact of return volatility that are theoretically linked through the behaviour of feedback traders.

Design/methodology/approach

The S&P 100, 500 and the NASDAQ 100 index are considered and volatility in each series is captured using option‐implied estimates taken from the Chicago Board Options Exchange. A seemingly unrelated regression approach is used in which trading volume and volatility are simultaneously modelled.

Findings

The results of this study suggest that low or even negative return autocorrelations are more likely in situations where: return volatility is high; price falls by a large amount; traded stock volumes are high; and the economy is in a recessionary phase.

Research limitations/implications

The results confirm that previous related work showing a link between autocorrelation and volatility is not induced by a mechanical relation.

Practical implications

Usage of endogenously determined volatility measures in this area of the literature is justified.

Originality/value

This study provides a robustness test of the autocorrelation/volatility relation, as well as a further exploration of the utility inherent in option‐implied volatility.
Molecular, structural firm adaptations to environments: empirical Tao of the CEO
Authors: Foo Check‐Teck , McKiernan Peter
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate CEOs as leaders in manufacturing organizations. The focus is on the roles of CEOs in organizational adaptations to changing and continuously evolving external environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is grounded on a conceptual theory of molecular structuring inside organizations. The authors then investigate CEOs' leadership roles. For this purpose a long established Singapore perceptual database of corporate productivity practices is utilized. Two contrasting samples (N=65) of high and low adaptability manufacturing firms are obtained. Statistical technique of Pearson product correlation yields intriguing, contrasting patterns of findings. On the basis of these results, we then discuss the roles of CEOs in highly adaptive versus lowly adaptive manufacturing firms.

Findings

The results are seen through the lenses of molecular structuring of organizations suggest a sharp contrast in the nature of the roles of CEOs. In organizations that are highly adaptive, there is much closer interactions. In the lowly adaptive, CEOs seem uninvolved, staying aloof from core operations of their firms.

Research limitations/implications

Since, the contrasting samples are from within the manufacturing sector, these insights are particularly relevant to China as a global manufacturing centre.

Originality/value

This is the first paper of its kind to empirically validate the prescriptions of Lao Tzu, the ancient Chinese sage and author of the 2,500 years oldTao Te Ching.
Strategic adaptations to environments inside China
Authors: Kang Jian , Cheah Charles Y.J. , Chew David A.S. , Liu Guozhi
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine a series of environmental factors and industrial conditions governing the construction industry in China. The outcome of this part of the analysis sheds light on the development of appropriate competitive strategies and important resources and competencies (IRCs) to establish long‐term competitive advantages.

Design/methodology/approach

The overarching conceptual framework consists of both external and internal analyses. Since, the scope of work is very broad, the materials presented in this paper is limited to external analysis of environmental factors. The study is primarily derived from a literature review and synthesis of data gathered from various public sources. Certain parts of the analysis utilize frameworks developed by other researchers and selective statistical methods.

Findings

Some environmental factors, such as government intervention and legal and regulatory systems require the development of Guanxi (relationships) to cope with. Other factors including market structure, project procurement systems, horizontal market segments related to construction, regional characteristics and upstream and downstream functions within the construction value chain are suggestive of five potential types of competitive strategies: cost leadership, differentiation, market/product diversification, geographical diversification, and vertical/functional integration.

Research limitations/implications

The research study as a whole is targeted at large construction firms in China that belong to the First class qualification category. Therefore, the proposed competitive strategies and IRCs may not be applicable to small and medium construction enterprises.

Originality/value

Application of strategic management theories and empirical findings related to the Chinese construction industry is lacking. This research fills this gap and builds a foundation for future studies related to this industry.
Constructions of entrepreneurship: a discourse analysis of academic publications
Authors: Berglund Karin , Johansson Anders W.
Published: March 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to investigate opposing versions of entrepreneurship and to introduce a metaphor to stimulate a dialogue about the diversity and complexity of enterprising communities.

Design/methodology/approach

A discourse framework is developed in order to describe dominating – and even new and challenging – versions of entrepreneurship. The discourse analysis is presented in three steps: the introductory text to a handbook of entrepreneurship is deconstructed to expose some basic assumptions of entrepreneurship; drawing on several research articles, some dominating versions of entrepreneurship are analysed; drawing on research articles which have recently been published in two special issues in entrepreneurship journals, alternative versions of entrepreneurship are analysed.

Findings

This paper compares three dominating and three alternative versions of entrepreneurship. All the versions are related to the idea of entrepreneurship as a story of creation for our times, where it is implied that entrepreneurship appears to be something inherently good for society and for people. The versions share a common denominator but are also distinguished by different ontological and epistemological assumptions that make a dialogue between the versions problematic.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this research paper have obvious limitations because of the methodology employed and due to the limited number of texts analysed.

Originality/value

The concept of a discursive web to analyse the world of entrepreneurship is introduced.
The transition to hydrogen‐based energy: combining technology and risk assessments and lay perspectives
Authors: Ricci Miriam , Newsholme Gordon , Bellaby Paul , Flynn Rob
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper attempts to highlight and discuss the limitations of the current discourse around the role of hydrogen‐based energy in a more sustainable future.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws upon preliminary findings from qualitative fieldwork in three case studies. Focus groups were conducted with members of the public in three different areas of the UK where hydrogen projects are being planned and/or developed. Findings are connected to evidence gathered in other similar studies addressing the relationship between publics and new technologies.

Findings

In the case of hydrogen energy and its role in a future economy, questions about safety were present but did not dominate the debate. Participants in our focus groups were not only concerned about the technical and economic aspects of hydrogen technologies, but they also wanted to understand what hydrogen as an energy carrier and fuel would mean for them and in their daily lives; whether it would deliver the promise of realising a better future, for the global environment and the people; and whether it would disrupt people's lifestyles and require a significant change in collective and individual behaviour. Moreover, a frequent issue raised by many people was their ambivalence about what, and whom, to trust in the provision of information about hydrogen.

Originality/value

This research on public attitudes to a future hydrogen economy provides empirical insights about the socio‐cultural contexts in which lay understandings of new, unfamiliar technologies and technological systems are developed, and what issues are raised by members of the general public when an informed debate is encouraged. The research attempts to contribute to the wider debate about public engagement in technological change.