bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The frictional behavior of materials under vertical vibration
Authors: Asaduzzaman Chowdhury Mohammad , Helali Maksud
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate experimentally the effect of external vertical vibration on the friction property of mild steel, glass fiber‐reinforced plastic and cloth‐reinforced ebonite.

Design/methodology/approach

A pin‐on‐disc apparatus having the facility of vibrating the test samples in a vertical direction was designed and fabricated. The experimental setup has the facility to vary the amplitudes and frequencies of vibration, while the velocity of vibration is kept constant. During the experiment, the frequency and amplitude of vibration were varied from 0 to 500 Hz and 0 to 200 μm, respectively. Studies have shown that the friction coefficient decreases with the increase of amplitude and frequency of vertical vibration for the above‐said materials. The rate of decrease of friction coefficient is different for different materials. The results of these materials are analyzed by dimensional analysis to correlate the friction coefficient with sliding velocity, frequency and amplitude of vibration. The experimental results are also compared with those available in the literature and simple physical explanations are provided.

Findings

It was found that reducing the friction coefficient of different materials was achieved by way of reducing the friction force by applying known frequency and vibration and correlating the friction coefficient with frequency, amplitude and sliding velocity.

Practical implications

The paper presents a way of reducing friction force by applying known frequency and vibration so that the mechanical process can be considerably improved (by considering the appropriate design of vibration).

Originality/value

The paper's originality lies in demonstrating the correlation among friction coefficient, amplitude, frequency and sliding velocity for different types of materials.
Materials screening of matching pairs in a water hydraulic piston pump
Authors: Yinshui Liu , Wu Defa , He Xiaofeng , Zhuangyun Li
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present some design guidelines for the selection of the materials of the main frictional pairs in a water hydraulic piston pump.

Design/methodology/approach

In the research, a specified test bench that can simulate the typical frictional pairs in a water hydraulic piston pump was built. The friction and wear behaviors of the three pairs in the pump with different materials combinations were tested on the test bench. The tested materials included metal, engineering ceramics and plastics. Some surface engineering technologies including plasma surface spray, laser clad and heat treatment were applied and tested. The matching schemes included hard‐to‐hard (such as ceramics‐to‐ceramics) and hard‐to‐soft (such as metal‐to‐plastics, ceramics‐to‐plastics).

Findings

Some principles for the materials selection in a water hydraulic piston pump were obtained. According to the test results, the combination schemes for the main frictional pairs in a water hydraulic piston pump were proposed.

Originality/value

A test apparatus that could simulate the movement of main frictional pairs in a water hydraulic piston pump more really than the other general materials machines was developed. Some materials including metal, engineering ceramics and plastics and some engineering technologies were tested. The research described here is an important foundation for the development of a water hydraulic piston pump.
Developing tomorrow's engineers: a case study in instrument engineering
Authors: McDonnell Liam , O'Neill Donal
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this case study is to outline the challenges facing industry and educational institutions in educating and training instrument engineers against a backdrop of declining interest by secondary school students in mathematics and physics. This case study cites the experience and strategies of the Kentz Group and Cork Institute of Technology, Cork, Ireland in developing tomorrow's engineers, with particular reference to instrument engineers.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted is that of a case study which describes activities and processes within industrial and academic settings and the rationale behind them.

Findings

The paper finds that educators, accrediting bodies and companies must work in alignment to continue to develop talented instrument engineers. It proposes a campaign to promote mathematics and physics in schools, and determines that companies must work carefully to support young instrument engineers entering the workplace.

Research limitations/implications

The paper reflects experiences in case study form of one academic institution and one company, drawing on established principles. Propositions put forward will need testing and in other contexts.

Originality/value

Instrument engineers are one of the key factors in enabling the growth of mature and emerging economies, yet their development rarely receives attention in scholarly journals focusing on learning and development. The paper reflects best practice in Ireland with broader lessons for engineering and construction businesses.
From apprentice to construction manager and beyond: developing a talent pipeline
Authors: McGettingan Eamonn , O'Neill Donal
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the approach taken within Kentz Engineers and Constructors to develop electrical technicians and other apprentices on an international basis.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach adopted is that of a case study which describes activities and processes within the college and the rationale behind them supported by appropriate material.

Findings

An integrated approach is needed to developing qualified tradespeople as junior supervisors involving work rotation, mentoring, learning and development workshops and peer support. Corporate will, together with systems and infrastructure, is needed to be successful organization‐wide.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is a case study that focuses on reflections from practice. Lessons learned and proposed will need to be tested in other organizations.

Originality/value

The paper provides original, tested solutions to problems that face the majority of organizations in the global construction industry and which will be familiar to all who manage the transition of apprentices into supervisory positions.
Setting sail in a new direction
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Campbell Quick James
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss why organizations who are looking for top executives, should enlist former military officers and senior enlisted leaders, who make excellent candidates.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires with both closed‐ and open‐ended questions generate responses from more than 300 former Navy admirals. This paper reports the qualitative findings emerging from the open‐ended questions.

Findings

The authors identify the perspectives that enable a smooth transition from the structured military to a civilian career. Embracing the new environment proves essential, while clinging to the past has detrimental outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

It is yet to be determined whether former military leaders represent the wider population of executives at traditional organizations moving to a business environment.

Practical implications

The admirals' career shift should shed light on broader questions of transition into a business environment, as well as the specific element of embarking on a second career at a late age and the impact of organizational support mechanisms.

Originality/value

Careers in industry since the last quarter of the twentieth century have become boundaryless, turbulent, even chaotic. Many people have to change their approach to careers, yet few studies examine mass transition from traditional systems to a second career in business. This paper should assist HR theorists and practitioners who deal with such career transition.
Leadership, performance evaluations, and all the usual suspects
Authors: Stark Ernie , Poppler Paul
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend investigation of differences in job performance related ratings across racial and ethnic groupings by comparing predictions derived from the theories of similarity‐attraction and social categorization with predictions derived from leader‐member exchange theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data are secured from 91 matched pairs (managerial level subordinates and immediate supervisor) secured in a field study of 17 employers of choice in the geographical area served by a metropolitan university in the USA. A moderated hierarchical regression is performed to test the two original hypotheses, and a chi‐square analysis tests a third hypothesis evolving from the data.

Findings

Examination of data reveals that supervisor and subordinate racial demographics are weak predictors of measures of subordinate performance. Measures of leader‐member exchange make any contributions attributed to racial demographics insignificant.

Research limitations/implications

This research is subject to all the concerns associated with field studies and quasi‐experiments.

Practical implications

Since high quality exchange between supervisor and subordinate is a track inward to the central core of the management system and upward mobility, this study points to the value of providing all managers and all subordinates exposure to and instruction in how to initiate and maintain a high quality social exchanges across racial and ethnic groupings.

Originality/value

While null results such as reported in this study are not typically found in the literature, they should spark additional theory development especially when the research methods used are robust.
Exploratory case studies on manufacturing agility in the furniture industry
Authors: Azouzi Riadh , Beauregard Robert , D’Amours Sophie
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the agility of advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) in furniture enterprises, and explores the appropriateness of a typology framework that correlates the technology infrastructure of the enterprise with its manufacturing strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a clear and rigorous case study design and protocol. Empirical data are collected using structured surveys of two strategically selected furniture enterprises. The collected data are used to analyze the fit between the technology infrastructure of the enterprise and its strategic goals, and how this fit correlates with the theoretical categories stated by the typology.

Findings

The case studies suggest that enterprise performance could be maximized if the competitive priorities and the customization strategy put in practice are in conformity with the available technology.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the case studies corroborate the all inclusive hypothesis suggested by the typology. The lack of triangulation of multiple data sources for more confidence about the results or the typology framework itself remains a limitation in this study. The two cases were representative to a certain extent of two out of the three theoretical ideal types stated by the typology.

Practical implications

The explored typology can serve as a supporting tool for managers when making strategic investment decisions in their pursuit of a mass customization strategy within a specific market.

Originality/value

The originality comes from the way the properties that should be displayed by the technologies used in furniture manufacturing enterprises to develop agility are drawn together.
Online purchase determinants
Authors: Broekhuizen Thijs , Huizingh Eelko K.R.E.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the moderating influence of direct online shopping experience in an e‐commerce context.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framework links attitudinal constructs such as price attractiveness, merchandise quality, service quality, time/effort costs, risk and enjoyment to future online purchase intentions. Purchasers and inquirers of a car insurance comparison website were approached by personalized email to participate in an online questionnaire. Multi‐group structural equation analysis was used to test for group differences in the structural weights.

Findings

Compared to the purchasers, the inquirers were more concerned with the perceived enjoyment, risk and price attractiveness offered by the website, while caring less about time/effort savings. Inquirers were negatively influenced by the price attractiveness of their chosen insurance, which indicates that they were less likely to use the website for future transactions if they were satisfied with their current price.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could extend the current research by investigating other potential moderators, such as socio‐demographics and psychographic variables.

Practical implications

Guidelines for managers of websites for financial services about how to convert inquirers into buyers and improve the loyalty of online buyers.

Originality/value

Draws upon insights from marketing, e‐commerce and information systems to provide substantial support for the hypotheses regarding the moderating influence of direct online shopping experience.
Can the US stock market be Shanghaied?
Authors: Huang Yi‐Jer , Bacon Frank W.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the US and China stock markets between 2000 and 2007. This study attempts to categorize the event on February 27, 2007, i.e. 9 per cent plunge in Shanghai stock market followed by the $1.5 trillion global market shake out, as irrational, i.e. herd mentality.

Design/methodology/approach

To test for this relationship, the Morgan Stanley Capital International daily price index data was collected from April 15, 2002 to April 12, 2007. Daily Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), Nikkei 225 (Nikkei), Hang Seng Index, and the Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite Index (SSECI) were collected from finance.yahoo.com from January 1, 2000 until April 3, 2007. The running beta and correlation coefficients, defined as the cumulative coefficients, are used to determine the co‐movement of the SSECI and DJIA.

Findings

The strength of the relationship between the US and China stock markets has significantly increased since 2005, maybe attributed to China's policy change in 2005 to move toward a more free market economy. Because of the unique characteristics of China's stock market, it is hard to conclude that the $1.5 trillion global market shake out was ignited by the 9 per cent plunge in the Shanghai stock market on February 27, 2007.

Research limitations/implications

China's economic reform is unique since the country followed no blue print for the economic institutions to model after and policies were adopted through experimentation. Fueled by its fast growing economy (10.4 per cent in 2005 and 10.7 per cent in 2006), using past patterns or trends to predict the future of China's financial market requires further research as its stock market emerges. Research in this area requires more observations as China's stock market grows and becomes more transparent.

Practical implications

Results here suggest that the strength of the relationship between the US and China stock markets has significantly increased since 2005 and that China's 2005 policy moves toward a more free market economy are most likely responsible.

Originality/value

A better understanding of the influence of China's emerging stock market on the global stock market offers significant value to portfolio managers worldwide.
Developing an integrated model of TQM and HRM on KM activities
Authors: Ooi Keng‐Boon , Teh Pei‐Lee , Yee‐Loong Chong Alain
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an integrated model of total quality management (TQM) and human resource management (HRM) to elucidate the influence of TQM and HRM practices on knowledge management (KM) activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of KM serves as a starting‐point to develop the integrated conceptual model linking TQM and HRM aspects. Based on an extensive review of the current literature, three practices of TQM and three practices of HRM are integrated in an organized manner to examine the influence of TQM and HRM practices on KM activities.

Findings

These findings provide a basis for developing a model to advance the HRM, TQM and KM research literature.

Practical implications

The practical implication of this study could be useful for business managers, who want to enhance organizational KM activities through implementing HRM and TQM practices that support their organization's KM efforts.

Originality/value

This paper makes a significant contribution by developing an integrated HRM and TQM model as a methodological example which can be useful for tracking the degree of HRM and TQM effects on KM activities. Organizations could use this framework to do a pre‐test baseline measurement, and then periodically re‐assess the effects of any HRM and TQM change.
Trust in leadership is vital for employee performance
Authors: Sharkie Robert
Published: April 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the debate on employee performance by discussing the importance of trust in encouraging performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review of discretionary contributions to the organization and employee trust in their leaders.

Findings

There is strong evidence that the vulnerability of employees in the employment relationship has increased the importance of trust in encouraging employee extra‐role behaviour outside their legal and contractual obligation.

Research limitations/implications

The importance of trust for employee behaviour has been well documented but the fragility of the psychological contract shows that discretionary extra‐role behaviour will be context specific.

Practical implications

Organizations need employees to perform beyond expectations and this paper shows the importance of trust in encouraging this performance.

Originality/value

This paper is important for managers and academics because of the imperative of being able to access and then use the knowledge and skills of employees.
Are child prostitutes child workers? A case study
Authors: Montgomery Heather
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Based on a case study of a small community in Thailand, the purpose of this paper is to analyse the explanations that child prostitutes give for selling sex. It looks at whether child prostitution can be considered as a form of labour and if children themselves understand what they do as work or exploitation. It focuses on children's relationships within their families and argues that international legislation calling for child prostitution to be abolished, while well meaning, is too simplistic and does not deal with the complex social relations underpinning prostitution and the lack of alternatives for many children.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on ethnographic fieldwork and participant observation among a small group of child prostitutes in Thailand.

Findings

Certain children have very different understandings of prostitution to those campaigning to end the practice. They do not see prostitution as a form of work or necessarily as a form of abuse. Instead they claim it as a way of fulfilling perceived social and moral obligations to their families.

Research limitations/implications

The importance of listening to children themselves, even on such sensitive and emotive issues, is paramount as it reveals a gap between ground level realities and proposals put forward in international legislation.

Originality/value

The growing literature on child prostitution rarely takes into account children's own perspectives. This paper engages directly with children and takes seriously their own justifications and rationalisations.
Child labour and cocoa: whose voices prevail?
Authors: Berlan Amanda
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide ethnographic data on the lives of children working in cocoa‐producing communities in Ghana and to illustrate the importance of contextualisation in understanding the phenomenon of child labour.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on anthropological fieldwork carried out in Ghana using participant observation and child‐focused participatory research methods. It also includes an analysis of media sources and policy documents.

Findings

It shows that the children involved in this study worked freely and willingly on family cocoa farms. It also shows that research and interventions must be context‐based and child‐centred as forms of child labour in cocoa are not uniform across West Africa.

Research limitations/implications

Unfortunately, the scope of the paper does not allow for a discussion of recent interventions and progress relating to child labour in the West African cocoa industry.

Originality/value

This paper challenges many of the assumptions made about child labour in cocoa and offers new insights into the lives of children in these communities.
Child labor and mothers' work in Brazil
Authors: DeGraff Deborah , Levison Deborah , Robison Mary
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore associations between children's and mothers” work.

Design/methodology/approach

Brazilian household survey data are used to examine characteristics of children's and mothers' work in tandem.

Findings

Children are more likely to be in the labor force if their mothers are working, especially girls, younger children and rural children. There are strong connections between mothers' and children's employment characteristics, including industry and sector, location, commute times and whether paid. Employed children are more likely to work long hours if their mothers do, or if their mothers are not employed.

Practical implications

Connections between women's and children's work imply that changes in women's employment can change the work activities of their children. Policies and programs designed to influence women's labor force participation, such as micro‐credit programs, should consider their effects on children's time. Moreover, programs, laws, and international conventions that address only child labor ignore the family context of child work, limiting their potential impact.

Originality/value

The paper uses quantitative techniques and survey data to examine a topic usually investigated through small qualitative studies.
Adolescent work experience and self‐efficacy
Authors: Cunnien Keith A. , MartinRogers Nicole , Mortimer Jeylan T.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the relationship between high school work experiences and self‐efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

Ordinary least squares regressions are applied to longitudinal data from the Youth Development Study to examine work experiences and self‐efficacy.

Findings

The analyses indicate that employment fosters self‐efficacy in multiple realms. Occasional and sporadic workers exhibit less self‐efficacy than steady workers. Supervisory support may be especially important in enhancing adolescents' confidence as they anticipate their future family lives, community participation, personal health and economic achievements.

Research limitations/implications

This research includes only a small set of the work dimensions that may be important for adolescents. Ethnography and in‐depth interviews are recommended to further explore the subjective and emotional dimensions of youth work experiences.

Practical implications

In developing policies and guidance, educators, parents and employers should be aware that steady employment and supervisory support enhance the development of adolescent self‐efficacy.

Originality/value

This paper finds evidence that adolescent work experiences spill over to influence youth's developing confidence in the realms of family life, community and personal health. It also suggests that sporadic and occasional work patterns can impair the development of self‐efficacy in adolescence.
Exploring risks faced by child workers in Britain
Authors: Hobbs Sandy , Anderson Seonaid , McKechnie Jim
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent of accidents amongst child workers and to test the hypothesis that the tendency to have an accident is related to low perception of risk.

Design/methodology/approach

Over 700 Year 10 school students answered questionnaires concerning their experience of employment. The school students completed another questionnaire in year 11; from these 55 working children were selected to be interviewed and respond to a new tool, the Job Risk Card Sort.

Findings

Whereas 45 per cent of the interviewees had reported having had an accident in the questionnaire, this rose to 80 per cent in the interview. Those who stated in the questionnaire that they had had an accident tended to have lower perception of risk on the card sort than those who did not, thus supporting the hypothesis.

Research limitations/implications

Previous questionnaire‐based research on accidents amongst young workers may have underestimated their extent. Further investigation of risk perception and accidents should be undertaken with a larger sample and more sophisticated techniques.

Practical implications

Procedures to safeguard young workers against accidents should be strengthened.

Originality/value

This is the most detailed study of accidents to child employees so far undertaken in Britain.
School pupils' firms and mini‐companies in Germany
Authors: Liebel Manfred
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the emergence of pupils' firms in Germany since the beginning of the 1990s.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory study is mainly based on a survey conducted with 88 projects that were presented at a pupils' firm fair in Berlin in November 2005, where pupils' firms from all over Germany presented themselves. During the fair, pupils, teachers and representatives of supporting organisations were interviewed. Furthermore, a comparison of other pupils' firms and supporting organisations' information material was undertaken.

Findings

The paper concludes with questioning the exclusive conceptualisation of the pupils' firms as educational projects within school and renders problematic their emphasis on providing business ideas and management skills. The paper argues for more reflection on the wider social and political implications around issues to do with pupils' autonomy and makes a case for preferred forms of self‐determined and cooperative working.

Originality/value

The paper discusses the goals and interests pursued in founding and promoting pupils' firms. It asks what experiences, opportunities and risks are involved for the pupils and what further approaches are becoming apparent, or are thinkable. In Germany, pupils' firms have not been systematically analysed.
The PSO triangle: designing product, service and organisation to create value
Authors: Pawar Kulwant S. , Beltagui Ahmad , Riedel Johann C.K.H.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advance the understanding of product‐service systems (PSS). It uses a multiple method approach to analyse literature and cases and synthesise a framework for the understanding and investigation of PSS. It demonstrates the need to consider the “organisation” or network, of firms involved in defining, designing and delivering value through the PSS. This is conceptualised as a product‐service‐organisation (PSO).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses three complementary methodologies: a road‐mapping analysis, investigating industrial challenges for collaborating enterprises, a multidisciplinary literature review of PSS concepts and analysis of two cases.

Findings

The paper finds that value can be most effectively delivered by networks of collaborating firms, integrating the products and services they offer to create the value which customers seek. In short, creating value requires the simultaneous design of product, service and organisation – the PSO triangle.

Research limitations/implications

The paper offers a new classification of PSS related literature, drawing on a broad review of research in marketing, design and operations management related to service and PSS. The framework helps researchers understand the organisational challenges of PSS and provides suggested future research directions and questions.

Practical implications

The framework provides the foundations for a process to develop PSS. It highlights the organisational challenges and suggests that a systematic yet iterative process can be devised to create and deliver value. This means defining customer value which can be profitably delivered; designing the PSS to create this value and identifying the required capabilities; and finally creating and managing the network of partners responsible for delivering value.

Originality/value

The major contribution is a link between the emerging PSS literature and previous research on virtual enterprises and other types of organisational networks. The paper argues that PSS often creates the need to identify and access capabilities through a collaborative network. This is conceptualised in the PSO triangle.
Towards an operations strategy for product‐centric servitization
Authors: Baines Tim , Lightfoot Howard , Peppard Joe , Johnson Mark , Tiwari Ashutosh , Shehab Essam , Swink Morgan
Published: April 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to present a framework that will help manufacturing firms to configure their internal production and support operations to enable effective and efficient delivery of products and their closely associated services.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the key definitions and literature sources directly associated with servitization of manufacturing are established. Then, a theoretical framework that categorises the key characteristics of a manufacturer's operations strategy is developed and this is populated using both evidence from the extant literature and empirical data.

Findings

The framework captures a set of operations principles, structures and processes that can guide a manufacturer in the delivery of product‐centric servitized offering. These are illustrated and contrasted against operations that deliver purely product (production operations) and those which deliver purely services (services operations).

Research limitations/implications

The work is based on a review of the literature supported by data collected from an exploratory case study. Whilst it provides an essential platform, further research will be needed to validate the framework.

Originality/value

The principal contribution of this paper is a framework that captures the key characteristics of operations for product‐centric servitized manufacture.
Machine vision advances and applications
Authors: Connolly Christine
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the progress of machine vision as it applies to automated assembly applications.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of technological developments is described: 3D vision, smart cameras, near infrared (NIR) imaging and LED illumination. Associated with each are relevant assembly applications.

Findings

Advances in multi‐core processors are facilitating the development of 3D image processing algorithms for robot guidance and product inspection, which in turn enable the automation of skilful and labour‐intensive tasks. Machine vision products are becoming more capable, yet simpler to use. NIR imaging is useful for inspecting semiconductors and bottle filling. Advances in LED lighting address difficult inspection tasks at the macro and microscopic levels.

Originality/value

The paper recognises the emergence of 3D machine vision as a new tool in assembly automation. Updates engineers on other relevant machine vision advances.
Agent‐based framework for pre‐contractual evaluation of participants in project‐delivery supply‐chains
Authors: Ilie‐Zudor Elisabeth , Monostori László
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an agent‐based model for partners' selection in inter‐organizational supply‐chains. Screening activities undertaken by the main contracting organization for the case of large project deliveries and parameters to be considered are identified, a multi‐level quantitative framework to support the decision‐making process in effectively selecting an efficient and a compatible set of partners is proposed. Different agent behaviours are introduced and modelled; their impact on the results of the bidding processes is analysed through a simulation model specifically developed for this purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

Among the biggest challenges, companies confront with is the finding of appropriate action lines, methods or IT tools to overcome problems introduced by the saturation of the market, fierce competition and downfall of entry‐barriers. The paper uses a paradigm that is seen as one of the most promising in responding to the needs of modern companies: the agent‐based paradigm.

Findings

Designing an efficient supply network greatly influences the level of uncertainty that a company is encountering. An agent‐based model may efficiently help the inter‐organizational networks partners' selection process. To operate effectively in open environments such as supply chains, agents must be adaptive. System/agents performance can be improved by doing what‐if simulation runs.

Research limitations/implications

A further possible work direction, considering that nowadays a society must find a compromise between being internationally competitive and having a healthy environment, would be the introduction in the model of a special type of agent, namely the project delivery waste management agent.

Practical implications

In addition to contributing to the scientific literature, this research also aims at supporting practical business situations in the industry by creating a normative decision‐making model based on an agent‐based approach. The simulation model developed supports the tuning of parameters used in the evaluation process and makes possible analyzing the effect of different agent behaviours.

Originality/value

Research that identifies means to constrain the pre‐contracting selection problem for specific delivery chains as bridge constructions is needed. The paper details the particularities of such chains, and makes a presentment of roles of actors with impact on the assessment process. One specific of the approach is that in addition to participants as suppliers and main contracting organization also issues (goals) relevant in the supplier's appraisal process are represented by independent agents.
Variation propagation modeling and analysis at preliminary design phase of multi‐station assembly systems
Authors: Wang Haixia , Ceglarek Dariusz
Published: April 2009

Purpose

Dimensional variation management is a major challenge in multi‐station sheet metal assembly processes involving complex products such as automotive body and aircraft fuselage assemblies. Very few studies have explored it at a preliminary design phase taking into consideration effects of part deformation on variation propagation, since early design phase involves the development of imprecise design models with scant or incomplete product and process knowledge. The objective of this paper is to present a variation model which can be built into the preliminary design phase taking into consideration all of the existing interactions between flexible parts and tools in multi‐station sheet metal assembly process.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses this problem by first, presenting a beam‐based product and process model which shares the same data structure of the B‐Rep CAD models, and therefore can be embedded in CAD systems for automatic product skeletal design; second, determining the influence of part deformation, for various, differing joining and releasing schemes, on variation propagation; and third, utilizing this information to generate a vector‐based variation propagation model for multistation sheet metal assemblies.

Findings

This paper presents a beam‐based product and process model which shares the same data structure of the B‐Rep CAD models, and therefore can be embedded in CAD systems for automatic product skeletal design; determines the influence of part deformation, for various, differing joining and releasing schemes, on variation propagation; and utilizes this information to generate a vector‐based variation propagation model for multistation sheet metal assemblies.

Originality/value

A truck cab assembly is presented to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed model over the state‐of‐the‐art approach used in industry for sheet metal assemblies.
RFID‐enabled supply chain systems with computer simulation
Authors: Zare Mehrjerdi Yahia
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review key points about the radio frequency identification (RFID) and the fundamental concepts of supply chain management (SCM). To understand important supply chain (SC) strategies for a complete success, main strategies are identified. Some applications of RFID in SC are briefly reviewed and three large cases of RFID implementation in SC are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides key elements of SCM, a brief background on RFID, and the integration of SC and RFID to generate new systems with higher level of profitability and efficiency. Three cases using computer simulation techniques for system evaluation are reviewed.

Findings

The paper finds that to make the SCM functional and successfully operational, management must be committed to high standard of performance including competitive lead times to customers, significantly reduced inventories, world‐class product quality, and reduced process and product complexity.

Originality/value

Owing to the fact that a better management of a production system is related to the full understanding of the technologies implemented and the system under consideration, sufficient background on the RFID technology is provided and a SCM system including its appropriate strategies are discussed.
How using an allocation formula changed funding allocations at Long Island University
Authors: Guarria Charles I.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how the Brooklyn Campus Library of Long Island University evaluated the present budget allocation process and took corrective action regarding the distribution of the materials budget (books, CDs, DVDs, and VHS).

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review is conducted to discern which (if any) budget allocation formulas would be useful in updating the budget allocation process.

Findings

There is some controversy in the literature about the value of using a mathematical equation or formula to distribute the materials budget. Within the group of librarians who favor using these equations there is a debate as to which model is the most effective. Further, there is a division over the best approach to an allocation. The efficacy of allocation formulas, historical spending and circulation statistics are a few of the issues that are debated in the literature.

Practical implications

This article provides useful information for acquisitions librarians in analyzing a budget line – in this case, the materials budget that in many libraries is being restricted or reduced. It serves as a reminder that processes need to be reviewed periodically as opposed to simply accepting the process because “that's the way it's always been done”.

Originality/value

The paper provides insight into an urban mid‐sized library's acquisitions department efforts to manage more effectively the monies allocated to the department. Peer institutions may gain a new perspective that helps in their budget allocation process.
Selection criteria for mobile library collections
Authors: Davidson Glenn , Dorner Dan
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discover the criteria upon which selection decisions are made in six mobile libraries in New Zealand.

Design/methodology/approach

In this qualitative study data were gathered from interviews with six mobile librarians. The study is guided conceptually by the perceived need for a collection development policy and a selection procedures statement to guide selection, and the needs versus wants debate.

Findings

The data suggest that there is no universal approach to the selection of material for mobile library collections; mobile librarians achieve a balance between users' needs and wants to some extent when selecting; and there is no relationship between the nature of mobile library services and the serving of needs and wants. The researchers contend that mobile librarians' selection decisions are influenced by various criteria other than users' needs or users' wants.

Research limitations/implications

This qualitative research is based on the analysis of the selection practices of six mobile librarians in New Zealand. Future research might seek to replicate this study's methodology using a larger population or investigate the lack of emphasis on reference services on some mobile libraries or the management of fixed, floating, and integrated mobile library collections.

Originality/value

Only a slight amount of literature exists about the selection of mobile library collections. This study will be of interest to mobile librarians in New Zealand and elsewhere who wish to obtain a better understanding of current selection practices. It will also act as guiding literature to help mobile librarians to make better informed selection decisions.
Learning from experts: collection development in business
Authors: Kim Soojung
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the types of information useful for the business domain and resources for specific information types. Also, it aims to discuss a methodological approach for identifying core resources in a particular discipline.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of business materials identifies a set of business tasks and questions. Based on the results of content analysis, a survey simulating real reference situations is conducted with academic business reference librarians.

Findings

The paper identifies the types of information most useful both for business as a whole and for the sub‐fields (entrepreneurship, finance, management, and marketing). The resources suggested by participants are summarized for each type of information.

Practical implications

The findings are helpful for academic business librarians for collection development as well as for database selection for a specific query.

Originality/value

The suggested methodology for identifying core resources in a particular discipline has general applicability across other disciplines.
Building a pre‐Code video collection
Authors: Tang Jennifer
Published: April 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on a group of films that were made during a little‐known period of Hollywood filmmaking known as the “pre‐Code” era. It seeks to provide an overview, historical background, and a general discussion about censorship and the cinema.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines key actors, directors, and films that exemplify the characteristics of “pre‐Code”. The criteria for inclusion set by this study take into account not only their subject matter, but their availability on home video.

Findings

This comprehensive bibliography includes information on some of the actors who appeared in these films as well as summaries of select films. Commercial web sites that distribute and sell pre‐Code films are also presented. Key actors, directors, films, and companies that were involved in the production of pre‐Code films are identified and discussed. General reference works about film are highlighted as well as web sites, blogs, and other online resources that provide reviews and detailed discussions of pre‐Code Hollywood films.

Originality/value

The article offers guidelines for building a pre‐Code video collection and discusses why its subject matter is of interest to academia, especially in regard to women's and ethnic studies courses.
Strategy in India: why doesn't it deliver?
Authors: Pillania Rajesh K.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss fundamental issues and problems with the concept of strategy in general and its various tools in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

Five fundamental flaws are examined.

Findings

There are many instances in which CEOs/top management/strategic consultants/professors are faced with this issue of a question mark over strategy.

Originality/value

However good a strategy one may develop, if it is not implemented, it will be of no use. Research shows there are increasing business failures. Generally the fault is identified with wrong strategy. Firms are still fighting to find the right strategy.
Implementing an open innovation strategy: lessons from Napoleon
Authors: Read Stuart , Robertson David
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer learning from NetFlix's open innovation strategy to other firms considering implementing open innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint looks at the case study of NetFlix.

Findings

The paper finds four generalizeable aspects of NetFlix’ open innovation strategy that may be useful to other firms considering implementing open innovation.

Originality/value

This is a strategy implementation piece and is an original work based on a current case study.
Leadership for innovation: what you can do to create a culture conducive to innovation
Authors: von Stamm Bettina
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the importance of leadership in an innovative organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at how leaders can support innovation with the organization.

Findings

The paper suggests that there are three phases of the innovation process.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful suggestions for the leadership of innovation in organizations.
Interview with Vijay Govindarajan
Authors: by Ruth Young Interview
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at the views of Vijay Govindarajan on innovation and corporate strategy for its implementation, Earl C Daum 1924 Professor of International Business at the Tuck School and founding director of Tuck's Centre for Global Leadership and an expert on strategy and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of an interview with Vijay Govindarajan.

Findings

The paper reveals Vijay Govindarajan's views on innovation and its implementation within the company and his five barriers to breakthrough innovation.

Originality/value

The paper provides insights on corporate strategy for innovation from an established expert on strategy and innovation.
Equality, equal opportunities and diversity
Authors: Johns Nicholas R. , Green Alison J.
Published: April 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the aims of equal opportunities policies in the UK and to link them to market forces, European integration and the wider aims of economic growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical literature around equal opportunities and managing diversity is examined. The paper looks at how these have been implemented in practice by examining a policy document relating to Higher Education.

Findings

The paper concludes that the policy document examined exhibits a high degree of confusion and misunderstanding about many of the key principles underlying equal opportunity theory and practice.

Originality/value

The arguments presented add to the wider debates about the nature and role of equal opportunities policies and their relationship to economic policy.