bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outsourcing effects on firms' operational performance
Authors: Jiang Bin , Frazier Gregory V. , Prater Edmund L.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

This research aims to empirically investigate the effect of outsourcing on firm level performance metrics, providing evidence about outsourcing influences on a firm's cost‐efficiency, productivity and profitability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is concerned with empirically examining the impact of outsourcing on a firm's performance. The results are based on a sample of 51 publicly traded firms that outsourced parts of their operations between 1990 and 2002. Publicly available accounting data are used to test for changes in operating performances that result from outsourcing decisions. Operating performances are examined over a four‐quarter period after the outsourcing announcement.

Findings

This research provides evidence that outsourcing can improve a firm's cost‐efficiency. While existing literature on outsourcing has also sought to draw anecdotal and conceptual evidence that highly visible companies have improved their productivity and profitability as well through outsourcing, the research reveals no evidence that outsourcing will improve a firm's productivity and profitability.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to what is available in public databases. Also, financial data pertain to the firm as a whole and not just to the outsourcing department or division, which would obscure the real outsourcing effects on the particular department or division.

Practical implications

This research makes two contributions to both practice and theory. First, this is the first empirical study to examine the link between outsourcing implementation and firm‐level performance metrics. Second, empirical evidence is provided of the difference between outsourcing firms' performance and their non‐outsourcing competitors'. Outsourcing firms have an obvious significant advantage in cost efficiency over their counterparts which do not outsource any activities at the same time. They also may obtain more available resources from outsourcing to invest in other productive capacities.

Originality/value

This research on outsourcing effects is the first to empirically test the relation between the outsourcing decision and the firm's productivity and profitability. Never before has outsourcing played such an important role in business, yet the overall impact of outsourcing on performance remains largely an unexplained puzzle. The research explores opportunities for further research to investigate the returns on outsourcing.
Routes to chaos in macroeconomic theory
Authors: Gomes Orlando
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to survey literature on macroeconomic nonlinear dynamics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies five influential types of models where the possible generation of endogenous cycles and chaotic motion arises. First, the frameworks that make use of the one‐hump logistic type equation; second, the models inspired on the growth literature of the 1940s; third, intertemporal utility maximization problems with increasing returns; fourth, models that can be represented as piecewise dynamic maps; and, fifth, bounded rationality – heterogeneous expectations setups.

Findings

The attention will be mainly focused on the theme of business cycles; an interpretation of the deterministic real business cycle model with increasing returns is proposed and a graphical analysis of the underlying system shows that strange attractors are observable for specific sets of parameter values.

Practical implications

The study of endogenous cycles in macroeconomic literature has important implications for policy: if fluctuations are due to deterministic reasons this may imply that by manipulating policy parameters governments may be able to change the qualitative nature of the economy's dynamics.

Originality/value

The paper gives a comprehensive view of nonlinear dynamics in macroeconomics. It shows that various relevant subjects might be addressed in this kind of models, e.g. economic growth, asset pricing, business cycles, consumption decisions, among others.
Machine vision developments
Authors: Connolly Christine
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To review recent developments in machine vision hardware and techniques, as revealed in the Image Processing and Optical Technology Exhibition, 2006.

Design/methodology/approach

Different sections of the paper examine new cameras and their interfacing, smart cameras with DSP processors, a powerful framegrabber, high intensity light emitting diode (LED) lighting, and developments in teraherz sources and detection.

Findings

Smart cameras now exist with greater processing speed than a PC. A new generic programming interface aims to ease the incompatibilities of digital cameras. Water cooling has produced a very intense and long life LED light, and a novel goniophotometer has no moving parts. Rapid advances are occurring in the field of terahertz imaging.

Originality/value

Provides an update on machine vision technology for scientists and engineers generally, and a source of contact information for specialists to follow up where necessary.
Does implementation of a JIT‐with‐customers strategy change an organization's structure?
Authors: Green Kenneth W. , Inman R. Anthony
Published: October 2006

Purpose

Manufacturers have begun to develop and implement strategies that focus on strengthening the operations/marketing interface with customers. Claycomb et al. originally identified and described one such strategy, just‐in‐time (JIT)‐with‐customers, and assessed its impact on organizational structure. Generally, this study seeks to replicate their original work with two primary differences: marketing, rather than logistics executives, are surveyed and structural equation modeling, rather than regression analysis, is used to analyze the data.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 180 marketing executives are analyzed using a structural equation modeling approach to assess the impact of JIT‐with‐customers on the organizational structure dimensions of integration, performance control, specialization and decentralization.

Findings

Results of this study indicate that JIT‐with‐customers impacts integration, performance control and specialization but is not related to decentralization.

Research limitations/implications

The findings generally support the proposition that adoption of a JIT‐with‐customers strategy will result in changes in organizational structure.

Practical implications

Manufacturing managers working to strengthen relationships with customers through a JIT‐with‐customers approach should prepare for organizational change in terms of increased integration, performance control, and specialization.

Originality/value

JIT strategies focusing on the operations/marketing interface are being implemented within the manufacturing sector. This study assesses the impact of one such strategy, JIT‐with‐customers, for only the second time. The results verify the earlier work of Claycomb et al. and expand the operations/marketing interface literature.
The relationship between proximate supply and build‐to‐order capability
Authors: Lyons Andrew , Coronado Adrian , Michaelides Zenon
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To investigate the opportunities provided by proximate supply to support build‐to‐order (BTO) capability and to provide empirical analysis to identify the extent to which supplier parks as a means of facilitating proximate supply can improve supply chain performance and enhance BTO capability in the automotive sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A case‐based approach was employed to analyse the relationship between proximate supply and BTO.

Findings

The key results of the research demonstrate how proximate supply in the automotive sector achieved through the presence of supplier parks situated adjacent or close to vehicle assembly plants, has provided the means for moving the customer‐order decoupling point upstream and, therefore, increase the percentage of a vehicle that is BTO. BTO is generally regarded as a qualitative concept yet the results are demonstrated by adopting measures that act as a proxy for building to a unique order. In addition, first‐rate performance is seen to be achieved in inventory levels and lead time with the proximate supply arrangement.

Research limitations/implications

The research presented in this paper considers day‐to‐day, transactional supply chain performance. No attempt is made in this work to cost the implications of setting up a supplier park or to evaluate such arrangements on a life‐cycle basis.

Practical implications

The results have practical implications for the future of supply chain design and location strategies in the automotive and other industries.

Originality/value

To date, the relationship between proximate supply and BTO capability has not been documented.
The attribution of success and failure in IT projects
Authors: Standing Craig , Guilfoyle Andrew , Lin Chad , Love Peter E.D.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine how project managers attribute information technology (IT) project success and failure.

Design/methodology/approach

IT personnel from large Australian organisations completed an adapted version of the Attributional Styles questionnaire, which asked them to attribute causes along a number of attribution dimensions, for IT projects which have either succeeded or failed.

Findings

The results indicate that IT support workers attribute failure to external factors, whilst attributing success to themselves. On the other hand, executive management took a more balanced perspective which attribute success to external factors and only partially to themselves, whereas they attribute significant personal responsibility for failure.

Practical implications

More junior professionals and operational IT employees can learn from their senior professionals in attributing success and failure. Post‐implementation reviews and debriefings conducted by senior IT professionals are ways of passing on their experience in relation to project and self‐evaluations.

Originality/value

This paper takes a well established psychology theory and applies it to the management of information systems (IS)/IT projects. IS/IT research has not examined how IT professionals attribute success and failure within projects.
TQM and market orientation's impact on SMEs' performance
Authors: Demirbag Mehmet , Lenny Koh S.C. , Tatoglu Ekrem , Zaim Selim
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The principal aim of this study is to determine the impact of market orientation (MO) and implementation of total quality management (TQM) on organizational performance of SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on theoretical considerations, a model is proposed linking the MO and TQM constructs to the organizational performance construct. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses empirically verified and validated the underlying dimensions of MO, TQM and organizational performance. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the model drawing on a sample of 141 SMEs operating in the Turkish textile industry.

Findings

Data analysis reveals that, while MO has a strong and positive impact on the extent of TQM implementation, it has no significant impact on organizational performance. Similarly, a strong and positive relationship was noted between the level of TQM implementation and organizational performance. It has also been found that the MO has a positive and significant impact on organizational performance through only a mediating role of TQM implementation.

Research limitations/implications

The data were collected from textile manufacturers in Turkey, which may restrict to some extent generalizability of findings to other industries or firms operating in more stable environments. Given the limitations associated with perceptual measures, findings should be interpreted with some degree of caution. Finally, an implementation of alternative scales on the same sample would provide further insights into the causal links between MO, TQM and organizational performance

Practical implications

SMEs should consider TQM as a facilitating management tool for improving organizational performance in relatively more dynamic environments. Market‐oriented SMEs may not realize an increased performance gains with a successful MO implementation but, when TQM is implemented alongside MO, better financial performance can be achieved. As increasing number of SMEs are being involved in global markets, a double track approach (MO at business level and TQM implementation at functional level) to improve product and management quality becomes inevitable.

Originality/value

A triangulation of MO, TQM and organizational performance outperforms two‐way relationship of MO and organizational performance. Direct and indirect effect of each construct on organizational performance was discovered. SMEs should consider TQM as having a mediating role to improve organizational performance under a given set of market orientation.
The impact of total quality management on innovation
Authors: Thai Hoang Dinh , Igel Barbara , Laosirihongthong Tritos
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between total quality management (TQM) practices and innovation performance in the Vietnamese industry context.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of confirmatory factor analysis was applied to refine TQM and innovation scales for empirical analysis in Vietnam. The structural equation modelling method was applied to test the theoretical models.

Findings

This study confirms the results of previous studies that considered TQM as a set of practices. It confirms that TQM – considered as a set of practices – has a positive impact on the firm's innovativeness. It discovers that not all TQM practices enhance firm innovativeness. Only leadership and people management, process and strategic management, and open organization showed a positive impact on the firm's innovation performance.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was not random. Future research should select different random samples to allow for more generalization of the results. The study assessed the concept of “newness” with the company boundaries. Future research should measure “newness” within the boundaries of the specific industry. The unclear evidence found in this study on the impact of the firm's education and training policy on innovation needs to be further investigated.

Practical implications

The findings are useful for business managers in developing countries such as Vietnam, who want to enhance business performance through implementing TQM practices that support their firm's product and services innovation efforts.

Originality/ value

The study has contributed to develop a measurement system of TQM practices and innovation performance that facilitates more quality management research in developing countries. It has contributed to clarifying the disputed relationship between TQM practices and the firm's innovativeness, and shows empirical evidence in Vietnam to confirm that the TQM practice set deployed by a firm has a positive impact on its innovation performance.
Extra‐role behaviors challenging the status‐quo
Authors: Chiaburu Dan S. , Baker Vicki L.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the antecedents of taking charge, an extra‐role behavior (ERB) directed at challenging the status‐quo.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested using regression analysis on data obtained by surveying 211 employees in one work organization.

Findings

Support was found for the distinctiveness of taking charge, a type of ERB that challenges the status‐quo, from traditional ERB, such as organization‐directed and individual‐directed organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBO, OCBI, respectively), and from in‐role behaviors (IRB). In addition, individual‐related factors, such as propensity to trust, employee exchange ideology, and their interaction, predict taking charge. Supervisor‐related factors, such as output control by the direct manager, are also significant predictors.

Practical implications

Practitioners interested in interventions to enhance taking charge behaviors can rely on these findings by either selecting employees (based on the employees' propensity to trust and exchange ideologies) or by providing appropriate organizational controls.

Originality/value

The findings are valuable for those engaged in theory building and testing and for practitioners. From a theoretical perspective, the paper proposes and tests novel predictors of taking charge on a sample of administrative and line employees. In addition, if the results are properly validated in other organizational contexts, practitioners can use these ideas to design specific interventions.
Interpersonal characteristics associated with different team roles in work groups
Authors: Davies Martin F. , Kanaki Eleftheria
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate interpersonal characteristics associated with Belbin's team roles in work groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The SYMLOG Interpersonal Effectiveness Profile (an interpersonal measure of personality), the EPQ (an intrapsychic measure of personality) and a revised version of Belbin's behavioural checklist measure of team roles were administered to 145 UK managers.

Findings

Canonical correlation analysis showed that SYMLOG personality dimensions were much more clearly and strongly related to team roles than were EPQ personality dimensions. The dominance (upward) SYMLOG dimension was positively associated with the roles of implementer, coordinator and resource investigator, and this was the most important canonical variate. The accepting authority (forward) SYMLOG dimension was positively associated with the roles of completer finisher, monitor evaluator and negatively associated with plant and shaper, and this was the next most important canonical variate. The friendly (positive) SYMLOG dimension was positively associated with the roles of team worker and plant and this was the least important canonical variate. Only the extraversion dimension of the EPQ was clearly associated with team roles (implementer, coordinator, resource investigator and team worker).

Research limitations/implications

The present findings are too dependent on self‐report questionnaires which are prone to biases such as positivity, leniency and halo effects. Research using observational analysis of behaviour in groups would be useful for extending the present findings.

Practical implications

Organizations might improve the functioning of their teams by analysing the sorts of interpersonal characteristics that are duplicated or lacking in their personnel so that a balanced mix of personalities can be established across different roles.

Originality/value

There has been little research on the interpersonal as opposed to the intrapsychic personality characteristics of different social roles in small groups.
Implicit leadership effects on multi‐source ratings for management development
Authors: Porr Dean , Fields Dail
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To determine the effect that implicit leadership theories have on the relevance of 360‐degree review techniques used to assess managerial behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships of subordinate, superior and self ratings of manager leader behaviors with three performance indicators were examined in 60 retail stores located in the USA.

Findings

Nearly, all of the subordinate ratings of manager behaviors were significantly related to performance of internal processes, while nearly all ratings of the same manager provided by superiors were related to performance in store merchandizing.

Research limitations/implications

The performance indicators were derived from company records, independent of influence from the rater groups.

Practical implications

Multi‐source ratings of managerial behaviors may be based on overall work unit performance rather than observation and should be assessed and interpreted cautiously in providing feedback for management development.

Originality/value

The ratings of managerial behaviors may reflect implicit leadership models activated by observation of store performance rather than rater observations of the manager's behaviors.
Gender and age differences in occupational stress and professional burnout between primary and high‐school teachers in Greece
Authors: Antoniou A.‐S. , Polychroni F. , Vlachakis A.‐N.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To identify the specific sources of occupational stress and the professional burnout experienced by teachers working in Greek primary and secondary schools. A special emphasis is given to gender and age differences. Design/methodology/approach – A cross‐sectional design was used. Two self‐report measures were administered to a sample of 493 primary and secondary school teachers, a self‐report rating scale of specific occupational stressors and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (education version).

Findings

The most highly rated sources of stress referred to problems in interaction with students, lack of interest, low attainment and handling students with “difficult” behaviour. Female teachers experienced significantly higher levels of occupational stress, specifically with regard to interaction with students and colleagues, workload, students' progress and emotional exhaustion. Younger teachers experienced higher levels of burnout, specifically in terms of emotional exhaustion and disengagement from the profession, while older teachers experienced higher levels of stress in terms of the support they feel they receive from the government.

Practical implications

The findings will help to implement effective primary and secondary level prevention programmes against occupational stress taking into account how males and females and younger and older teachers perceive stress at work.

Originality/value

The study is a significant addition to the teacher stress and burnout literature, especially in Greece where few relevant studies exist dealing with these problems.
The development of the field of HRD: a Delphi study
Authors: McGuire David , Cseh Maria
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The study explored the views of leading human resource development (HRD) academics regarding five main issues: the disciplinary bases of HRD, the historical milestones in HRD, the constituent components of HRD, the leading contributions in terms of journal articles and books to the development of HRD and the future of HRD.

Design/methodology/approach

A Delphi methodology was adopted. The views of editorial board members of the four main HRD journals (Human Resource Development Quarterly, Human Resource Development International, Advances in Developing Human Resources, Human Resource Development Review) and of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Human Resource Development were sought.

Findings

Adult learning, systems theory and psychology were identified as the disciplinary bases of HRD. Works by Knowles, Nadler and McLagan were viewed as the leading contributions to the field. Adjusting to changes in work patterns and how work is organized was identified as a key trend influencing the field. Issues of professionalisation and balancing the needs of employees, organizations and society were identified as the key challenges facing the field.

Originality/value

Examines key trends and challenges facing HRD.
Relationship betweenσ‐entropy andσ‐similarity measure of fuzzy sets
Authors: Xiaojun Tong , Lin Yi , Hongjiu Tao
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To provide a simplified proof for Liu's results concerning the relationship betweenσ‐entropy andσ‐similarity measure.

Design/methodology/approach

First obtains Liu's clear and simple functional expression ofσ‐similarity measures based on the structure ofσ‐entropy by using expressions of equivalent functions ofσ‐entropy. Then, by employing the general expression of equivalent functions ofσ‐similarity measure of fuzzy sets, provides a different proof of Liu's results.

Findings

Here, the proof is much simpler than the original one provided by Liu. And, on the basis of Shannon's probability entropy as introduced by De Luca and Termini, aσ‐similarity measure is constructed, on which a No answer to an open question as proposed by Liu is provided.

Originality/value

Constructs a new approach to some known results and provides a definite answer to an open question.
Analysis of smoothing techniques: application to production‐inventory systems
Authors: Wikner Joakim
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To provide an overview of how a number of frequently used smoothing‐based forecasting techniques can be modelled for use in dynamic analysis of production‐inventory systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The smoothing techniques are modelled using transfer functions and state space representation. Basic control theory is used for analysing the dynamic properties.

Findings

A set of expressions are derived for the smoothing techniques and dynamic properties are identified.

Practical implications

Dynamic properties are important in many applications. It is shown that the different smoothing techniques can have very different influences on the dynamic behaviour and therefore should be considered as a factor when smoothing parameters are decided on.

Originality/value

Dynamic behaviour of production‐inventory systems can be analysed using control theory based on, e.g. transfer functions or state space models. In this paper a set of models for five common smoothing techniques are analysed and their respective dynamic properties are highlighted.
Modelling systems by hypergraphs
Authors: Gazdík Igor
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To present the hypergraph as a systems model that is more versatile than are the single‐purpose models known from literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Parting from a previously known approach, pertinent hypergraph structures are specified, three new propositions are proved and the role of system elements and relations is analyzed.

Findings

Unlike a simple graph and a simple logical analysis, hypergraphs make it possible to apply a single theoretical approach to modelling a variety of systems. A worked‐out example illustrates the procedure.

Originality/value

Hypergraphs as a research tool appear sparsely in scientific literature. This paper fills the gap by presenting the hypergraph‐based systems model as being more versatile than are the models known from literature. It also highlights the effect of system elements and relations on the make‐up of the system in point.
Interdependence of systems theories – potential innovation supporting innovation
Authors: Mulej Matjazˇ , Kajzer Stefan , Potocan Vojko , Rosi Bojan , Knez‐Riedl Jozica
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To show that systems theory (ST) has surfaced as innovation of worldview and thinking, aimed at holism. After ST's subordination to narrow specialists using it inside traditional disciplines, if at all, humankind needs a new innovation of ST. An option is offered.

Design/methodology/approach

Mulej's Dialectical ST is applied as worldview and methodology of requisite holism using Mulej's Dialectical System concept.

Findings

Mulej's Dialectical System concept applies to synergies of several STs, not only viewpoints. Here, six soft STs and the social responsibility (SR) concept are combined around human subjective starting points aimed at holism and innovation, including ethics of interdependence. Combination offers new insights.

Research limitations/implications

Research is limited to soft STs and implies knowledge of more STs and SR as well as participants' readiness for creative interdisciplinary co‐operation.

Practical implications

The new concept offers a new step toward increased innovation capacity, especially toward innovation of culture toward requisite holism and innovation. This is a crucial precondition for survival in the modern global society and economy.

Originality/value

The authors know neither books nor articles presenting synergies of several STs and SR nor their application to preconditions of innovation.
Fractal planning for integral economic development
Authors: Dyck Robert G.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To conceptualize a new approach to economic development that fully embraces its fractal complexity, providing a basis for sustained socioeconomic welfare within cultures that encourage collaborative democracy and social learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the premise that healthy development must follow the natural laws of growth that apply to all ecosystems, the paper examines fractal intricacy as the basis of economic systems that are able to sustain sufficient flows of energy and information to all sub‐systems. Two methodological approaches that emerge for planning are called hierarchical (fractal) coherence and fractal connectivity. The first refers to sufficient density and variety of nodes (firms, economic processes, customers, etc.) at all scales in the hierarchy of an economic system; and the second denotes multiple paths of connection between the nodes, to handle the necessary flows.

Findings

This approach highlights the fundamental importance of locally‐based entrepreneurship and democratic control, and also suggests new methods for measuring system interconnectedness at all scales, supplementing economic growth measures such as GDP.

Research limitations/implications

The paper indicates the need for empirical research to calibrate and further refine the approach in real‐world settings.

Practical implications

The paper outlines a fresh planning strategy for dealing with the geometrically worsening dimensions of uneven economic development and poverty, at all levels of scale from the local to the global.

Originality/value

The paper articulates a viable cybernetic alternative to prevailing economic development approaches that are based on the neo‐classical, neo‐liberal, and neo‐conservative models embodied in our present system of economic globalization.
Systemic approach to innovations – standards vs software
Authors: Ženko Zdenka , Marn Jure
Published: October 2006

Purpose

In this paper we tried to apply some system theory in the complex problems of intellectual property management by presenting some relevant current issues regarding standards and possibilities of computer software protection. Systemic approach to involvement in lucrative business of software is examined, from the point of innovations incorporated within standards and software.

Design/methodology/approach

Two competing concepts are confronted: public accessible standards, and public exclusionary patents, both in the area of software development and software patenting. Actual examples of controversies are presented, and commented.

Findings

Patents are legalized monopolies. Monopolists exact higher prices than free market enterprises. Our results indicate that there needs to be balance between public interest in free access to technological information and monopolies. Owing to the lack of system theory applied in this problem solving processes the issues remain unsolved and also unclear to many involved in the process.

Research limitations/implications

More research in different fields of specialization and selected view points would be needed to present, understand and excellently manage this area of intellectual property to balance the advantage of general public benefits versus inventors. In this paper only some economic and legal views are presented.

Practical implications

Implications for managers strategies are discussed. Managers should take active role in standard setting, and software patenting. Public interest should be in influencing these developments and regulations.

Originality/value

The subject of standards and software is a less studied one and is becoming more important.
Communication and information technologies to enable viable organizations
Authors: Pérez Ríos José
Published: October 2006

Purpose

This paper attempts to show how the new communication and information technologies and the internet in particular can help in the design of viable organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a set of specific software tools based on internet, created for the purpose as given above. The tools are bundled in two packages. The VDMod package supports the application of Beer's viable system model (VSM) and the inclusion of system dynanics simulation models into the VSM model, as well as easy access to other tools such as team syntegrity. The SystemsNet package allows the members of the systems community to communicate with each other and gain swift access to these tools through the internet.

Findings

Communication and information technologies are enablers which help in the design of viable organizations by means of internet‐based software tools. They make the application of systemic approaches such as Beer's VSM and its combined use with System Dynamics (SD), or other methodologies and tools, easier and more readily accessible.

Research limitations/implications

The paper refers mainly to Organizational Cybernetics and SD and does not take into consideration all other systems‐thinking methodologies.

Practical implications

This paper reveals the possibility of very easy access to software tools for applying the VSM and its combined use with SD as well as facilitating communication among systems‐thinking field members.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the design of more viable organizations by providing researchers and practitioners of Organizational Cybernetics with the requisite software tools.
Informational topology and globalisation process
Authors: Otlacan Eufrosina , Otlacan Romulus‐Petru
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To explain the objectivity of the globalisation process by using the mathematical theory of topological structures.

Design/methodology/approach

After a brief presentation of the history and features of the globalisation phenomena, there are presented the basic notions of the mathematical concept of topology. Besides geometrical distance and geometrical topology, the authors define informational distance and informational topology. An informational neighbourhood of a person P is the informational medium that he/she masters, a set of persons with whom P communicates in a well‐determined interval of time. There is presented a hierarchy of informational topologies which structured human life on Earth. Nowadays, the world benefits from the finest topology, the topology of communication by the internet (TCI).

Findings

The possibility to conceive the globalisation process as a multidimensional vector function defined on the set of the world population. The projections of this vector function on the subsystems of human life refer to the political, economic, military, cultural or religious life. The continuity of this function in the TCI sense expresses the possibility for the globalisation phenomenon to be controlled.

Practical implications

The very understanding of the objectivity of the globalisation process and an important conclusion: the control of the situation only on a compact geographic area cannot ensure the stability of this area; it must have control over a neighbourhood of the informational topology. This means possessing informational instruments so as to be able to manage the economic, political and social activity and to avoid catastrophe.

Originality/value

Concept of mathematical topological structure applied to a complex social phenomenon.
The quantum turn in cybernetics
Authors: Lunca Marilena
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The aim is to identify and demonstrate the paradigmatic changes that quantum information science engenders in observing and the cybernetics thereof. The new paradigm obviates articulation nodes between the physical and non‐physical worlds (in the sense of Penrose).

Design/methodology/approach

Using modal/conditional heuristics, falsification, and consistency analysis, the study designs a formal approach to operating distinctions and (re‐)unifying them through their (formal) languages. To be able to introduce new concepts, consequences of key theses in cybernetics, information, and quantum information science are discussed.

Findings

The observer's observer turns into a quantum observer through extending both the how‐controls to what‐why‐controls, and cybernetics' competence of conveying control across disciplines. This turn confines successive‐orders cybernetics to particular applications, but enables the observing to become nearly as self‐generative as information or knowledge is. Quantum observer and cybernetics are shown to be tight in a mutual learning circularity.

Research limitations/implications

Immediate implications concern the framework for unifying observation‐based disciplines with those relying on knowledge generated formally. A limitation is that the framework is necessarily incomplete. At the far‐end, formalisms that solve problems of observer‐dependent complexities are expected to result.

Originality/value

The approach and findings are reported here for the first time. These and the philosophy/epistemology behind cross‐, or non‐disciplinary observers‐languages are crucial for designers of research programmes as well as for actualising sociocybernetics' potential of becoming a unifier.
Systems approach to complex systems modelling with special regards to tourism
Authors: Jere Lazanski Tadeja , Kljajić Miroljub
Published: October 2006

Purpose

The importance of context dependent modelling of complex systems, depending on the observer's point of view will be discussed. Thus, context is synonymous for the content of a problem in a frame of the goals, starting points and ways to achieve these aims. In this light, difficulties of model validation and a general method how to overcome them was discussed. The relations among subject – object – model in the light of a systems approach; Charles Sanders Peirce's triad principle and the semiotic principle of communication was presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The appropriateness of a system dynamics methodology, which is due to its transparency and clarity an excellent tool for modelling of complex systems.

Findings

In the paper the equivalence of different methodologies was shown, whose differences and similarities can be judged only in context of a problem and the aims of researches. For illustration, the methodology is applied to a tourism system, which possesses the typical properties of global and local organisations. A verbal description of a tourism problem is followed by a causal loop diagram, which helps to discuss the problem categorically.

Practical implications

As the methodology is implemented using quantitative model and POWERSIM tools; it offers the solution of national tourism strategy implication, selected from different scenarios.

Originality/value

This paper presents a simulation model of the tourism in a frame of system dynamics, developed from qualitative models, as an illustration of the discussed methodology.
Data fusion: a study of adaptative combinations with incomplete certainty qualification
Authors: Oussalah Mourad
Published: October 2006

Purpose

In previous work, the algebraical properties of this rule and its relationship with other generalized operator was studied. In this paper, the aim is to focus on one of the previous steps, which consists in certainty qualification, and it is investigated how this factor influences the behavior of the induced combination rule.

Design/methodology/approach

Dubois and Prade have proposed an adaptive combination rule that moves gradually from a conjunctive mode to a disjunctive mode as soon as the conflict between the sources increases. The proposal can be viewed as a result of some rational steps. This includes: conjunctive combination; re‐normalization of a subnormal result that may results from conjunctive operation where the lack of normalization is interpreted as a conflict; certainty qualification; restriction of the conflict influence; generalization to more than two sources.

Findings

Algebraical properties of the proposals have been investigated and illustrations of some special cases are highlighted and evaluated. Further studies continue in Part II.

Originality/value

New functional adaptive rules are put forward based on Residual implicators andt‐conorm operators.
Effects of acetophenone‐formaldehyde resin on the degradation of high‐density polyethylene by UV‐irradiation
Authors: Yildiz Y. , Kizilcan N. , Uyanik N.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

Proposes to examine acceleration of photo‐oxidative degradation of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) by using photosensitive acetophenone‐formaldehyde resin (AFR).

Design/methodology/approach

Degradation of HDPE by UV light was investigated in the presence of photosensitive AFR on natural weathering. The experiments were done at constant temperatures (40, 65 and 90°C). The results were determined by FT‐IR spectrophotometric and viscometric methods. Measurement of the rate of formation of carbonyl groups on the FT‐IR showed the evidence of degradation. The carbonyl indices of photo‐oxidation of HDPE with/without AFR were determined by FT‐IR spectroscopy. The molecular weights of the samples (Mη values) were measured by viscometry.

Findings

The amount of carbonyl present in the AFR containing HDPE samples and the changes in their molecular weights were found to depend on the irradiation period, temperature and amount of AFR in the mixture. The improvements in UV performance have been observed by using 1 per cent photosensitive AFR in the mixture. Photo‐oxidative degradation also appeared to be accelerated by heat.

Research limitations/implications

This study can be focused on using photosensitive resins for the polymer degradations just as powder mixture, but the HDPE sample used did not contain antioxidants. From this point of view, commercial HDPE and AFR must be mixed as a film‐former and the AFR concentration will be higher than those of this work.

Practical implications

This work provides technical information for the application of photosensitive resins for easy degradation of HDPE packaging materials.

Originality/value

The method in which a photosensitive resin is used in the polymer degradation may be a reference for other relevant studies.
Preparation and characterisation of silicon dioxide obtained via emulsion method
Authors: Jesionowski Teofil
Published: October 2006

Purpose

Proposes to investigate preparation of amorphous silica via precipitation reaction from aqueous solution of sodium metasilicate and hydrochloric acid in emulsion medium, focusing on determination to optimise the dispersive and morphological properties of silicas studied.

Design/methodology/approach

The silicas obtained were analysed using modern research techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy for studies on particle surface morphology and dynamic light scattering technique for studies on particle structure and their tendency for agglomeration. Moreover, the sedimentation characteristics of the silica powders were evaluated.

Findings

The properties of silicas precipitated from emulsion systems depend on several variables but the amount and concentration of the applied reagents and pH of the emulsion are of critical importance. Using 16, 14 or 12 wt% solution of sodium metasilicate (per SiO2 content) and 5.0, 4.3 or 3.7 wt% solution of hydrochloric acid, the particles obtained were of best dispersive parameters. Mean diameter, polydispersity, shape and sedimentation of particles reflect the applied preparation procedure. Several of the silicas obtained manifest tendency for formation of secondary agglomerates and aggregates. The pH of the solution obtained from two mixed emulsions exerts a pronounced influence on quality and properties of the prepared silica. The best silica is obtained at pH 6‐7. In the cases where the emulsion has been dosed with “pure” sodium metasilicate solution, particles of irregular shape of high mean particle diameters, with a tendency to form large particle accumulations, have been formed.

Research limitations/implications

In the precipitation reaction, aqueous solution of sodium metasilicate, hydrochloric acid and emulsifiers in the form of non‐ionic surfactants were used as substrates. The organic phase involved cyclohexane. Alternatives could be explored.

Practical implications

The method developed provides a novel and practical solution to precipitation of hydrophilic/hydrophobic silica fillers.

Originality/value

The method for obtaining amorphous types of silica could find numerous applications, particularly as polymer fillers.
Specular reflectance and derivative spectrometric studies on lac‐melamine formaldehyde (MF) resin blends
Authors: Bhatia D. , Sarkar P.C. , Alam M.
Published: October 2006

Purpose

To find out the molecular level changes in lac‐MF blends, occurring due to the effect of thermal stress on the blends at elevated temperature and at different intervals of baking time.

Design/methodology/approach

Films of lac‐MF blends, applied on tin panels were baked at 200°C for different time intervals. The baked films were examined by specular reflectance spectroscopy, as they were otherwise difficult to examine through conventional IR techniques, using KBr pellet method, due to their amorphous and tacky nature. The results obtained were compared and reported.

Findings

On baking the blends of lac‐MF resin at 200°C for different time intervals, cross‐polymerisation sets in via esterification and condensation. In addition to this, etherification may take place among different molecules of lac and MF resin. In terms of different physico‐chemical parameters, blends of 7:3 (w/w) lac:MF and of 1:1 (w/w) lac:MF were found to be better than blends of 3:7 (w/w) lac:MF, baked at 200°C for different time intervals.

Research limitations/implications

Chemical researches on lac‐synthetic resin blends have been typically limited due to the complex nature of resins and also due to the lack of suitable modern tools and techniques. This has been solved using state‐of‐the‐art instrumentation and computational techniques, which may prove to be useful to industry and for research.

Practical implications

Lac and its blends retain their significance in diverse fields of applications, ranging from surface coatings and food applications, to the formulation of lacquers, varnishes and in the finishing industry. Findings made in this study could have significant application for such industries from an application point of view.

Originality/value

To date, there is no record of specular – reflectance and derivative spectrometric studies on lac‐synthetic resin blends. This paper represents the first attempt to obtain and correlate reflectance data on such blends. It also highlights the convenience of the method and the scope of sophisticated data analysis, including derivative spectrometry.