bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children's experiences on the internet
Authors: Soeters Karen E. , van Schaik Katinka
Published: June 2006

Purpose

More and more children have access to the internet. Surfing the web can be a wonderful experience but also one fraught with danger, and not all parents and educators are aware that children can be exposed to unsuitable content online. Another question rises, and that is what is disturbing for children online? Are there gender and age differences and very important what do children do when they encounter disturbing or harmful information? Aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the positive and negative experiences of Dutch children on the web. It is based on a survey of 391 children aged eight to 13 years who have home access to the internet.

Findings

Children's most common positive experiences are playing games, using ICQ or MSN and chatting. Almost 50 percent of the respondents have had a negative experience on the internet. Children most frequently reported encountering pornography, followed by violence, computer viruses and/or their computers crashing. Approximately 80 percent told someone else about their negative experience, and, although it might be expected that this was a parent or a teacher, 45 percent of the children shared their experience with a friend.

Practical implications

Only by knowing these facts can one start thinking about how one can make the Internet a safer place for children.

Originality/value

The survey also revealed several significant age and/or gender differences in how children experience the internet.
Librarians outside the box
Authors: Quinlan Neil , Hegarty Nora
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To outline the structure and development of a library‐based Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) training programme at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and to describe its origins, implementations and long‐term goals. To explain why WIT Libraries was prepared to diversify from its traditional role and to take on the challenges involved in this project.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study report on the VLE training initiative as it has progressed at WIT. Describes WIT Libraries' experience as the main instigator of the WebCT training programme at WIT and questions whether or not this has been an effective medium for the introduction of WebCT to WIT.

Findings

Concludes by stating that the Library Unit is capable of implementing a varied, diverse and successful VLE programme. Stresses the importance of the personnel involved to the success of the project to date.

Research limitations/implications

The project is still at an early stage of development. The study provides a short‐term view of one small academic library service's experience of implementing a VLE. No full‐scale user survey has been conducted to date.

Practical implications

This account of WIT Libraries” experience of working with a VLE is likely to be a useful source of practical information for libraries in similar positions, of similar scale, faced with similar challenges.

Originality/value

Offers practical solutions for libraries in similar positions. The successful diversification of the traditional library role is likely to be of interest to all members of the library profession.
Impacts of situational factors on buying decisions in shopping malls
Authors: Zhuang Guijun , Tsang Alex S.L. , Zhou Nan , Li Fuan , Nicholls J.A.F.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To investigate the impact of situational factors on mall shoppers' buying decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on Belk's framework on situational factors in a sales situation, the study employed a dataset of mall shoppers in the USA, China and Hong Kong and logistic regression for analysis.

Findings

It is found that, whether in the combined sample or in the individual samples, nine of the 13 situational factors considered significantly affected shoppers' purchases of food or non‐food products. However, situational influences on purchases varied according to the types of products bought. More importantly, the findings on the impact of some factors were consistent across three or two samples, suggesting that their external validity may be extended to certain conditions.

Research limitations/implications

The study had a limitation in the selection of the malls where the interviews were conducted, so some of the findings may be mall‐specific rather than representative of the general population of shoppers in the nations or regions.

Practical implications

The information disclosed here may help the practitioners to better understand shoppers' (especially Chinese shoppers') behaviour in malls and, as a consequence, to undertake more efficient marketing strategies in malls (especially in the malls in China).

Originality/value

The distinguished feature of this paper is that it simultaneously examined the impacts of 13 situational factors on mall shoppers' purchase decisions with multinational data. This allowed researchers to check both the internal validity and the external validity of the observed impacts of the situational factors.
Antecedents of the difference in perceived risk between store brands and national brands
Authors: González Mieres Celina , María Díaz Martín Ana , Trespalacios Gutiérrez Juan Antonio
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The present study sets out to analyze the effects that a set of variables related to purchasing behaviour has on the difference in perceived risk between store brands and national brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology proposed to achieve the objective consists of analyzing the existing relationship between different aspects relating to purchasing behaviour of the consumer and the difference in perceived risk between the two types of brands through a causal and integrated model. Such a model covers both the direct effects and the indirect effects caused by these variables jointly. In order to do so data were obtained from two groups of people, which has allowed for cross‐validation of the methodology used, which, in turn, permitted a greater generalization of the results.

Findings

The variables which have proven to be most relevant when explaining this difference are the perceived quality of the store as opposed to that of the national brands, familiarity with the store brands and confidence in the extrinsic attributes of the product to assess its quality.

Originality/value

Previous empirical research has focused primarily on the individual effects of these variables. A causal model is proposed capable of demonstrating that, besides the direct effect of a variable on the difference in perceived risk between store brands and national brands, there may be other ways for this variable to exercise its influence. This is important because of the implications for retailers when managing their own brands.
Pursuing opportunities
Authors: Grundvåg Ottesen Geir , Grønhaug Kjell
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Aims to address the important but little researched question of why so many firms fail and so few succeed in their pursuit of opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

By reporting investment behaviour and performance among firms in the turbulent seafood industry, it was possible to raise important questions that guide the analysis of why some firms succeed while many fail in pursuing opportunities. Based on in‐depth interviews with top managers, the thinking and behaviour of one successful firm are analysed and compared with other less successful firms in the filleting branch of the seafood industry.

Findings

Shows with that the opportunity‐seeking behaviour of unsuccessful firms is influenced by over‐optimism, the success of other firms, and pressure to follow the “herd”. But also that the success of one firm addressed specifically is based on deep‐seated knowledge expressed as a simple rule that cuts through the various influences and guides its pursuit of opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on a single industry and is limited to technology investments in manufacturing firms. An important implication is that, in turbulent environments, salient and positive information may easily overshadow the actual risk in pursuing apparently clear‐cut opportunities. This implies that opportunities and their associated threat(s) should be scrutinized carefully.

Originality/value

Provides insights into the under‐researched question of why so many firms fail and so few succeed in their pursuit of opportunities.
Corporate universities: a catalyst for strategic human resource development?
Authors: Holland Peter , Pyman Amanda
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the extent to which the concept of the corporate university is emerging as a simple re‐labelling of the functional training area or a key strategic platform in developing organisational competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was taken to provide an in‐depth understanding of the development of a corporate university. Interviews with key informants and background/archival information was used to explore the focus of the corporate university. A typology developed by Taylor and Paton in 2001, was used to analyse the role and integration of the corporate university within the case study organisation.

Findings

The research indicates that the development of the corporate university within the case study organisation has focused resources to strategically develop their human capital and is clearly linked to the strategic objectives of the organisation to enhance competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

The research was exploratory and whilst indicating a link between the corporate university and the organisation's objectives, this was a single case study. The limitations of single case study analysis prohibit generalisability. More research is needed to identify trends developing across industry sectors. From this a more detailed review of the impact of corporate universities can be made.

Originality/value

This is the first research into the strategic development of corporate universities in Australia. As such, it provides insight into the development of the phenomena in an advanced market economy. The initial findings indicate strategic development of the corporate university to support and enhance the organisations focus and competitive advantage.
Trigonometric interpolation at sliding surfaces and in moving bands of electrical machine models
Authors: De Gersem Herbert , Ion Mariana , Wilke Markus , Weiland Thomas , Demenko Andrzej
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To propose trigonometric interpolation in combination with both sliding‐surface and moving‐band techniques for modelling rotation in finite‐element electrical machine models. To show that trigonometric interpolation is at least as accurate and efficient as standard stator‐rotor coupling schemes.

Design/methodology/approach

Trigonometric interpolation is explained concisely and put in a historical perspective. Characteristic drawbacks of trigonometric interpolation are alleviated one by one. A comparison with the more common locked‐step linear‐interpolation and mortar‐element approaches is carried out.

Findings

Trigonometric interpolation offers a higher accuracy and therefore can outperform standard stator‐rotor coupling techniques when equipped with an appropriate iterative solver incorporating Fast Fourier Transforms to reduce the higher computational cost.

Originality/value

The synthetic interpretation of trigonometric interpolation as a spectral‐element approach in the machine's air gap, the efficient iterative solver combining conjugate gradients with Fast Fourier Transforms. The unified application to both sliding‐surface and moving‐band techniques.
Finite element analysis of saturation effects in a tubular linear permanent magnet machine
Authors: Demenko Andrzej , Mendrela Ernest , Szeląg Wojciech
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to find the simple and accurate model for the analysis of a drive with a tubular linear permanent magnet machine (TLPMM). Attention is paid to the models that take into account the saturation effects and is useful in the calculations of electromagnetic forces.

Design/methodology/approach

A circuit model and a field‐circuit model (FCM) are considered. The FCM includes finite element (FE) formulation for the axisymmetric electromagnetic field, equations which define the connections of windings and converter elements, and expressions that describe the control system. The FE method is used to determine the parameters of the circuit model. In order to simplify the circuit model, saturation effects caused by armature reaction are ignored. The electromagnetic force calculation is based on the virtual work principle and uses an approximate expression for the derivative of system co‐energy. The results obtained for the proposed models have been compared.

Findings

The proposed FE method of force calculation conforms with the applied method of movement simulation. For the rotor position when the cogging force is equal to zero the calculated cogging force is “almost” zero within seven‐decimal‐place accuracy. The effects of armature reaction on the performance of a TLPMM machine are similar to those which occur in a classical DC machine; in particular the demagnetising effect caused by saturation is observed.

Originality/value

The paper shows the influence of the saturation effects on the electromagnetic force of a TLPMM. In the case of “strong saturation”, the classical circuit model may be inappropriate for engineering calculations.
Interpolation technique for effective determination of switching time instants for field‐circuit coupled problems with switching elements
Authors: Benderskaya Galina , De Gersem Herbert , Weiland Thomas , Clemens Markus
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To provide a numerical technique for the quick and simple determination of the switching time instants for field‐circuit coupled problems with switching elements.

Design/methodology/approach

3D magnetic vector potential formulation coupled to an electrical circuit with switching elements, for example, diodes, is presented. The change of the state of the switching elements is implemented as a modification of the model topology.

Findings

Since every step of the singly diagonally implicit Runge‐Kutta methods delivers not only the solution of this time step but also its stage derivatives, they can be efficiently employed to construct a dense‐output‐based interpolation polynomial, with their roots approximating the switching time instants.

Originality/value

This paper presents a computationally cheap interpolation approach for quick and accurate determination of switching time instances for field‐circuit coupled problems with switching elements. The proposed technique can be successfully incorporated into software packages designed to model coupled problems of different nature, where sudden changes of quality may take place.
Determination of the magnetic parameters at no‐load of a variable reluctance machine excited by DC and AC currents
Authors: Taïbi S. , Tounzi A. , Piriou F.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Aims to determine the magnetic parameters at no‐load of a variable reluctance machine excited by DC and AC currents.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents the linear analytical model used to determine the electro‐magnetic variables of a stator current excited reluctance machine. The 2D FEM approach is also introduced. Then the prototype designed in the laboratory is presented and its magnetic characteristics determined. The results are calculated using both models and compared with the experimental values.

Findings

According to the different results, apart from the atypical E(Ie) characteristic, for both excitation models, the doubly slotted machine excited by current in the stator can be modelled in a manner similar to that of a smooth rotor synchronous machine with an electromagnetic gear box.

Originality/value

This paper has succeeded in determining the magnetic parameters at no‐load of a variable reluctance machine excited by DC and AC currents.
High frequency extension of non‐linear models of laminated cores
Authors: Roger D. , Napieralska‐Juszczak E. , Henneton A.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The paper gives a new measurement method of the parameters characterising the magnetic laminations for broadband low‐level signals defined at any operational point.

Design/methodology/approach

High frequency phenomena machines fed by PWM inverters are related to low‐level signals corresponding to minor hysteresis loops around the instantaneous working point, which moves on the main loop at the basic frequency. The minor loops are assimilated to ellipses, which are characterised by only two parameters: the incremental magnetic permeability (μ) and the electric conductivity (σ).

Findings

For small signals high frequency field components, the laminated steel behaviour can be described by two local parameters (μ,σ) and skin effect. The values ofμandσdo not depend on frequency up to 1 MHz, but only on the operating point.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed broadband characterisation should be associated with a Priesach model that defines the operating point for computer simulation of high frequency phenomena.

Practical implications

The broadband characterisation of magnetic laminations is useful for studying the behaviour of the windings of the PWM‐fed machines.

Originality/value

Broadband measurements are now possible on small magnetic steel lamination samples.
The effect of strategic and tactical cause‐related marketing on consumers' brand loyalty
Authors: van den Brink Douwe , Odekerken‐Schröder Gaby , Pauwels Pieter
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The first objective was to find out to what extent consumers reveal an effect of strategic and tactical cause‐related marketing on brand loyalty. Second, the article seeks to assess the moderating role of consumer involvement with a product on the relationship between cause‐related marketing and brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design with 240 participants was used.

Findings

The results show that consumers perceive a significantly enhanced level of brand loyalty as a result of strategic cause‐related marketing as long as the firm has a long‐term commitment to this campaign and the campaign is related to a low involvement product. Consumers do not exhibit a significant impact of tactical cause‐related marketing campaigns – whether related to high or low involvement products – on brand loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

First, all respondents were students from a western European university. Second, the experiment relied on imaginary storyboards. Third, the program dimensions were not manipulated separately.

Practical implications

If companies intend to increase brand loyalty through CRM they should set up long‐lasting CRM campaigns linked to the product that shows the lowest level of consumer involvement.

Originality/value

The added value of this paper is the link between cause‐related marketing programs and brand loyalty. Moreover, a distinction is explicitly made between tactical and strategic CRM programs.
Improving attitudes toward brands with environmental associations: an experimental approach
Authors: Montoro Rios Francisco J. , Luque Martínez Teodoro , Fuentes Moreno Francisca , Cañadas Soriano Paloma
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to determine the relative importance of the ecological attribute when other attributes referring to the functional performance of a brand are taken into account, and check the effectiveness of environmental labels.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper establishes an experiment in which 352 women responsible for the household shopping are exposed to different levels of environmental information. The study analyses the effect said information has on product attitude and purchase intention. In order to transmit the information, a leaflet specifically designed for the research was used.

Findings

This study confirms the presence of a positive effect of environmental associations on brand attitude, though this effect is smaller than that of other functional attributes. It also demonstrates that using independent environmental certifications strengthens beliefs in the product's ecological performance.

Research limitations/implications

The use of washing powder can limit the feasibility of extrapolation of the results to other products. Therefore, a replication in other product categories is necessary/advisable.

Practical implications

In the light of the results, using environmental associations certified by independent bodies is recommended. This would help improve both brand attitude and brand equity.

Originality/value

This paper increases the knowledge about the precise commercial usefulness of environmental associations in relation with other attributes.
Dimensions of consumer knowledge and its impacts on country of origin effects among Australian consumers: a case of fast‐consuming product
Authors: Phau Ian , Suntornnond Vasinee
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The main purpose of the study is to extend Schaefer's paper by investigating how different dimensions of consumer knowledge may affect country of origin cues with an Australian sample.

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐administered mail survey was used in this study. The main sample consisted of Australian residents who are aged 18 and above and may or may not be alcoholic drinkers. The mailing list was purchased from a local council consisting of a suburb of metropolitan Perth, Western Australia. The total usable response rate was 38.7 per cent.

Findings

The results indicated that country of origin cues affect Australian consumers in beer evaluations despite its weak influences. It suggested that brand familiarity and objective product knowledge mediate the extent to which consumers relied on country of origin in product evaluation. However, the study found inconsistent results between different levels of objective knowledge and its effects on country of origin of manufacture.

Originality/value

The paper replicates Schaefer's with extensions. Despite the inconclusive results, objective product‐country knowledge, to some extent, may distort country of origin influences on consumers. This finding yields some insight for the efficiency in market segmentation. By segmenting consumers on different levels of knowledge, the marketers will subsequently make a better decision of how brand and country of origin should be managed.
Business relationships facing the end: why restore them?
Authors: Tähtinen Jaana , Vaaland Terje I.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss business relationships drawing to an end, and the reasons why company managers should attempt to restore the relationship instead of terminating it.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies a qualitative method and in‐depth interviews with companies in the North Sea oil industry.

Findings

The paper offers two contributions. First, it suggests an empirically grounded categorization of attenuating factors, i.e. the reasons to restore a relationship. Second, the categorization is extended to attenuating analysis, through which the value of the troubled relationship can be clarified. Thereafter, if the relationship is considered worth restoring, the managers may actively engage in restoring actions.

Research limitations/implications

Because this study is limited to one business setting, future research applying the attenuating analysis to other industries by using action research is suggested.

Practical implications

The study improves the awareness of inter‐organizational risk, enhances the manager's ability to assess the risk of losing a core relationship, and implements a method to reduce this risk. Troubled but valuable business relationships can be saved by applying the suggested attenuating analysis.

Originality/value

To one's knowledge, this is the first study that both systematically identifies the reasons for not leaving a business partner, and provides a practical framework for restoring a relationship based on the attenuating factors.
Customer value and switching costs in business services: developing exit barriers through strategic value management
Authors: Liu Annie H.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the concept of customer value and its role in building switching costs perceptions. The current research develops scales and empirically validates a typology of customer value for business services.

Design/methodolgy/approach

Through an extensive literature review, qualitative interviews, and an empirical investigation, the current study identifies three facets of customer value for business services (i.e. economic value, relational value, and core value) and investigates their relationships with buyers' perceptions of switching costs. Structural equation modeling techniques were used to evaluate a measurement model and structural relationships.

Findings

The findings show that economic value and the value obtained from relational and support aspects of a service exert strong positive impact on customers' perceptions of switching costs and thus serve as barriers to exit. Although core service does not seem to have positive impact on switching costs, core value maybe a “hygiene” factor that may promote customers' switching if not properly managed.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study are generated from a single industry; additional studies in other industries may strengthen the generalizability of the proposed constructs and framework.

Practical implications

Business suppliers need to build exit barriers through co‐creating relational value. Through communications, suppliers may be able to monitor customers' desired value as a proactive action to anticipate changes and to influence positive changes in customer value.

Originality/value

The current study sheds some light on how supplier firms can enhance switching costs, and consequently raise exit barriers by better managing various aspects of customer value perceptions.
Obasanjo Presidential Library: to be or not to be?
Authors: Aghwotu Tiemo Pereware
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the planned project to create the first presidential library in Africa, the Obasanjo Presidential Library.

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on public concerns and criticisms in the media, the obstacles that may prevent the Obasanjo Presidential Library from being completed are enumerated.

Findings

While the Obasanjo Presidential Library is intended to record the President's activities, foster democracy and promote good governance, the methods used to raise fund to date have been controversial. There is widespread criticism of the donations raised for the library project, even though most people see the library as a worthy project to pursue.

Originality/value

Provides an example of how even the most worthy project may be headed for failure if not handled properly. The general support for the presidential library may not be enough to see it to completion due to the controversial methods used to secure funds for the project.
Knowledge development, social capital and alliance learning
Authors: Ratten Vanessa , Suseno Yuliani
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to elucidate information on what creates the different types of knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

In the conceptual model it is argued that the concept of social capital provides an interesting view on the creation of market‐specific and firm‐specific knowledge.

Findings

The major finding from the paper is that knowledge is an important by‐product of an alliance forming process, a process commonly termed as alliance learning.

Research limitations/implications

Both market‐specific and firm‐specific knowledge have implications on two main types of alliance learning, that of mutual and non‐mutual learning.

Practical implications

Alliance managers need to be aware that knowledge is a key driver as well as a beneficial outcome in the formation of alliances.

Originality/value

This paper examines how the different types of knowledge evolve and how these different types of knowledge impact upon alliance learning.
Health services management: what are the ethical dimensions?
Authors: Palfrey Colin , Thomas Paul , Phillips Ceri
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Sets out to examine arguments that attribute a lack of an ethical dimension to the management function.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the role of health service managers in the context of the NHS and the political and economic contexts in which they operate.

Practical implications

The challenge faced by senior managers in the NHS, i.e. trying to provide high‐quality, accessible services and to remain within budgets, is recognised as formidable and ethically complex.

Originality/value

Efficiency and choice can be compatible objectives but their achievement within the NHS is likely to be more difficult than political rhetoric might suggest.
From bureaucratic to post‐bureaucratic: the difficulties of transition
Authors: Josserand Emmanuel , Teo Stephen , Clegg Stewart
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Modern bureaucracies are under reconstruction, bureaucracy being no longer “modern”; they are becoming “post” bureaucratic. Defining the post‐bureaucratic organization as a hybrid form provides insight into the intrinsic difficulties involved in the refurbishment of large complex organizations. The purpose of this paper is to examine these difficulties empirically.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the case of an Australian public sector agency, subject to “corporatization” – a metamorphosis from a strictly public sector outlook to one that was imputedly more commercial. It focuses on the transition from personnel management to strategic HRM in the HR function.

Findings

A series of difficulties affected these changes: difficulties in inventing a new identity; differences in perception of that identity; organizational philosophy towards strategic HRM; unsuitability of extent networks; and identity conflicts. Two factors emerge as the core explanation for the difficulties encountered: the “stickiness of identity” and the difficulties associated with network development.

Originality/value

The paper outlines the difficulties experienced in the putative “refurbishment” of a large public sector agency as it made its way to “corporatization”.
A structurationist analysis of post‐bureaucracy in modernity and late modernity
Authors: Briand Louise , Bellemare Guy
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use case study evidence to show that post‐bureaucracy is less marked by a discontinuity in surveillance than by its displacement and intensification.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the complex changes that occurred at the International Development Research Center, a Canadian public corporation.

Findings

Fundamental clash of values is evident. The reform has brought about a “new order” which relies on a centralized model of governance. Moves towards the “post‐bureaucratic organization” have entailed intensified surveillance and produced a new structure of domination.

Originality/value

The paper argues that Anthony Giddens' theories of late modernity and structuration contain elements that explain the emergence of new organizational forms, their continuity and transformation.
The underground mall
Authors: Boyd Thomas Jane , Lee Okleshen Peters Cara
Published: June 2006

Purpose

A dynamic retailing format is emerging in metropolitan cities across the USA: the underground mall (UGM). The UGM is a place of trade where a cluster of socially networked buyers (i.e. potential customers) and sellers (i.e. retailers) meet face‐to‐face in a private setting (i.e. in the seller's garage or in a neighborhood clubhouse) for the purpose of trade. This study seeks to detail how this unique retailing format operates and examines factors influencing consumption within this gray market.

Design/methodology/approach

Two theories were utilized in developing a framework for data collection: gray markets and market embeddedness. Data were collected via in‐depth interviews with 16 UGM shoppers. The data were analyzed and interpreted according to the protocol for phenomenology.

Findings

A combination of diverse retailing and socialization benefits drives the gray market of the UGM. Retailing benefits include a wide variety of vendors and products, unique items, convenience, a personalized shopping experience, and a comfortable shopping context. Socialization benefits include strengthening interpersonal relationships and building connections within one's community.

Research limitations/implications

This study makes an important contribution to the gray marketing literature. The findings illustrate that a combination of diverse retailing and socialization benefits, not price, drives this particular gray market.

Originality/value

This research is original to the gray market, market embeddedness, and retailing literatures within the field of marketing. The findings of this study suggest that consumer motives for shopping in the gray market of the UGM are more hedonic than utilitarian in nature.
The usage of third party logistics in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sadiq Sohail Mohammed , Saad Al‐Abdali Obaid
Published: June 2006

Purpose

With competitive pressures placing an increasing dependence on the ability of organizations to deliver customer‐adapted products quickly and on time, logistics has been an area that has been subjected to investigation. While there is a growing evidence of organizations increasingly seeking to outsource their logistics activities, there have been few comprehensive studies on the outsourcing of logistics in the Middle Eastern region. The purpose of this paper is to examine the usage of third party logistics (TPL) services in Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical research is used to study the extent firms use the services of logistics companies; the time period these have been used; the decision‐making process for choosing contract logistics and its impact on the organization.

Findings

Results based on the analysis of data relating to 496 firms in Saudi Arabia indicate that most of these users are satisfied with the services providers and has largely seen positive developments within the organization.

Practical implications

The results provide managers with evidence supporting the benefits of logistics outsourcing. The study also contains useful information for the providers of contract logistics services on the most frequently used services.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant addition to literature on logistics outsourcing as little empirical research has been previously reported from Arab world and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia to establish linkages between organizations and TPL providers. Moreover, the results of this study will also serve as a future benchmark for the entire Gulf Cooperation Council region, as Saudi Arabia happens to be the largest country in the Middle East.
Application of numerical methods to study the effect of axial conduction in plates and flow channels on the performance of plate heat exchangers
Authors: Mehrabian M.A. , Sheikhzadeh G.A. , Khoramabadi M.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to predict the plate heat exchanger performance when axial conduction in plates and in flow channels are present and fluids' viscosities are temperature dependent.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach to achieve the objective of the paper is deriving the governing equations and developing a computer program based on finite differences to solve them. The governing equations become dimensionless defining reference values and then discretized using FTBCS and FTCS methods. To solve the governing equations, the flow channel is divided into small elements in axial direction. Physical properties are constant for each element, while viscosity changes from one element to another one.

Findings

The effect of axial conduction in plates as well as in flow channels on temperature distributions, are studied individually and simultaneously. The program is run under four different conditions, namely: no axial conduction, axial conduction in the plates and in the flow channels, axial conduction in the plates only, and axial conduction in the flow channels only.In all the above cases, temperature distributions are achieved and characteristic curves are plotted. The numerical results are validated by comparing them with those published in an established reference carried out ignoring the effect of axial conduction, using the same plate geometry and flow details.

Originality/value

This paper gives valuable information and offers practical help to plate heat exchanger design engineer in order to choose the proper material for the plates as well as the right service and product fluids.
Solution of Navier‐Stokes equations by fourth‐order compact schemes and AUSM flux splitting
Authors: Mawlood Mahmood K. , Basri Shahnor , Asrar Waqar , Omar Ashraf A. , Mokhtar Ahmad S. , Ahmad Megat M.H.M.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To develop a high‐order compact finite‐difference method for solving flow problems containing shock waves.

Design/methodology/approach

A numerical algorithm based on high‐order compact finite‐difference schemes is developed for solving Navier‐Stokes equations in two‐dimensional space. The convective flux terms are discretized by using advection upstream splitting method (AUSM). The developed method is then used to compute some example laminar flow problems. The problems considered have a range of Mach number that corresponds to subsonic incompressible flow to hypersonic compressible flows that contain shock waves and shock/boundary‐layer interaction.

Findings

The paper shows that the AUSM flux splitting and high‐order compact finite‐difference methods can be used accurately and robustly in resolving shear layers and capturing shock waves. The highly diffusive nature of conventional flux splitting especially on coarse grids makes them inaccurate for boundary layers even with high‐order discretization.

Originality/value

This paper presents a high‐order numerical method that can accurately and robustly capture shock waves without deteriorating oscillations and resolve boundary layers and shock/boundary layer interaction.
Clearing the way for gender balance in the management of the UK financial services industry
Authors: Ogden Susan M. , McTavish Duncan , McKean Lindsay
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Females now comprise just over half of the workforce in the UK financial services sector. This paper aims to report on the current position relating to factors that are facilitating and inhibiting women from moving into middle and senior levels of management within the financial services sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative analysis of four case studies from a cross‐section of the financial services industry is presented, each compiled using interviews with male and female senior and middle managers, and gender‐defined focus groups usually of employees who are in the promotion pipeline.

Findings

Despite progress in the case study organisations, both men and women concur that females encounter more barriers to career progression in the industry than men and that these relate primarily to a long hours culture and networking. This leads some women to exclude themselves from working in certain parts of the industry, such as corporate banking. Further, this aspect of the industry culture tends to permeate into areas of the industry where these activities are less important for fostering client relationships.

Practical implications

The research implies that the industry needs to do more to make networking events and activities more gender neutral. Additionally, as more women move up the career pipeline, they should be encouraged to access networks that tap into their equivalent “female networks”.

Originality/value

The paper provides a current picture of managerial working life in the UK financial services industry and provides empirical evidence of the managerial work cultures within the sector.
Exploring parents' responses to their child's deliberate self‐harm
Authors: Raphael H. , Clarke G. , Kumar S.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Deliberate self‐harm (DSH) is a serious public health problem and, although in the past research has focused mainly on the DSH patient, it is now recognised that parental involvement in the therapeutic process is beneficial. This study aimed to understand parents' concerns, expectations and experiences following an episode of deliberate self‐harm in young people in order to identify their support needs.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a qualitative study using a phenomenological approach. Data were generated primarily from face‐to‐face, in‐depth interviews with parents of young people who had self‐harmed and with health professionals directly concerned in the management of DSH patients.

Findings

The study suggests that an incident of DSH by their son or daughter is an extremely traumatic experience for parents. Parents reported being deeply distressed with feelings of helplessness, they had concerns regarding coping with their child on discharge from hospital and were worried about the possibility of future incidents. These anxieties were exacerbated by a perceived lack of information and support from some health professionals. These results suggest that parents need more support and if given this they might be enabled to better contribute to improving the long term prognosis for their child.

Originality/value

The information reported here may help health professionals to engage more fully with parents as they have a key part to play in the success of the therapeutic process. The findings could be used to increase awareness and understanding amongst health professionals and so facilitate the development of mutual trust and understanding between all parties involved in the therapeutic process.
How is your walking group running?
Authors: Kwak Lydia , Kremers Stef , Walsh Anthony , Brug Hans
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The present study sought to obtain a better understanding of the determinants that influence the adherence to individual walking groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The study took place as part of the “Just Walk It” (JWI) programme of the Australian National Heart Foundation. The research model incorporated social environmental, physical environmental, cognitive and socio‐demographic factors. Participants (n=284; response rate 49.6 per cent) of the JWI programmme completed a survey, which measured environmental, cognitive and socio‐demographic factors. Exercise adherence was monitored over a period of 12 months. To identify the potential predictors bivariate correlation analyses and linear regression analyses were performed.

Findings

Social cohesion was identified as the sole predictor of adherence to walking groups, while cohesion was further associated with positive attitudes regarding physical activity. Furthermore, participants who perceived their neighbourhood as positive in terms of safety and friendliness were more likely to have a positive attitude toward exercising.

Originality/value

The present study indicates the importance of acknowledging the social environment in designing walking group interventions. This paper offers useful information for individuals designing interventions aimed at increasing physical activity.
Evaluating school‐based health services to inform future practice
Authors: Chase Elaine , Goodrich Rosalind , Simon Antonia , Holtermann Sally , Aggleton Peter
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the process and lessons learned from an evaluation of “Teen Talk”, a health drop in service at Kidbrooke, a state secondary school in Greenwich.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi‐pronged approach was adopted for the evaluation. This included a questionnaire survey of a sample of 180 pupils within the school; in‐depth discussions with 12 young people who had used the service; interviews with health and education professionals and parents; desk research including an analysis of costs and discussions with senior staff in other schools in Greenwich to determine the feasibility of replicating the “Teen Talk” model elsewhere in the borough.

Findings

“Teen Talk” is greatly valued by pupils and staff at the Kidbrooke and was seen to provide a unique service. The overall perception is that it provides good value for money. However, the evaluation identified important lessons in setting up and managing the project which can help refine the service and which have relevance for local and national contexts.

Research limitations/implications

This paper illustrates the advantages of embedding evaluation research in health service design and implementation, particularly when there is the potential of replicating service delivery models in other school settings.

Originality/value

Creating safe and confidential spaces for young people to access help and advice on a range of health issues is by now well recognized as good practice. School‐based health facilities are a relatively new approach to young people's health promotion. Although the benefits of this type of provision are largely undisputed, to date, few such services have been evaluated.
Measurement of productivity and quality in non‐marketable services
Authors: Färe R. , Grosskopf S. , Forsund F.R. , Hayes K. , Heshmati A.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to model and compute productivity, including a measure of quality, of a service which does not have marketable outputs – namely public education at the micro level. This application is a case study for Sweden public schools.

Design/methodology/approach

A Malmquist productivity index is employed which allows for multiple outputs or outcomes such as test results and promotions without requiring price data with which to aggregate these outputs. It also allows one to account for inputs such as teachers and facilities as well as proxies for quality of the inputs (e.g. experience of teachers) and outputs. This model generalizes the basic data envelopment analysis (DEA) models – used successfully to measure performance in many educational applications – to the intertemporal case. A way of computing quality and quantity components of overall productivity is employed.

Findings

The case study is an application to the Swedish primary and secondary school system over the 1992 to 1995 period. It was found that quality “matters”, i.e. productivity growth changes when one accounts for quantity.

Research limitations/implications

The data available implied that the specification is restricted to an intermediate production model, i.e. the output data only account for the intermediate outcomes of education like grades and promotions, but not the longer term outcomes related to success in the job market or higher education, which one proposed as a task for future research.

Originality/value

The indices which are computed at the micro level are of value for policy purposes (does investment in quality matter?) and in an evaluation context.