bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retailers’ experiences with and attitudes toward the Saudi Arabian EFTPoS system
Authors: Abdul‐Muhmin Alhassan G. , Alzamel Ibrahim A.
Published: April 2007

Saudi retailers’ experiences with the system for electronic funds transfer at point of sale (EFTPoS) in Saudi Arabia and the effects of those experiences on their attitudes toward the system were examined in a survey conducted in the Eastern and Western provinces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results from a sample of 187 retailers show that adopting retailers have experienced the most benefit in the area of increased customer convenience, while the main problems have been delays at checkout counters and added responsibility for counter staff. Large retailers and retailers which are heavy users of the system report the most benefits while small retailers and light users of the system report the most problems. The results also show that adopting retailers have an overall positive attitude toward the system, and that retailers which have experienced the most benefit (or the least problems) have more positive attitudes toward the system than those which have experienced the least benefit (or the most problems). Implications of the results are outlined and discussed.
Vitality and Viability: Challenge to the Town Centre
Authors: Schiller Russell
Published: April 2007

British town centres are suffering from the growing trend towards
out‐of‐town retailing. The Continental model for the future of town
centres appears attractive, but there are problems. National durable
multiples face a locational dilemma – they have a commitment to town
centres but wish to follow the market out of town if that is necessary.
The result is that many run both town centre and out‐of‐town operations
in parallel. The three waves of retail decentralization – food, bulky
goods and comparison goods‐have varying effects on different sizes of
centre. Larger durable‐based town centres are likely to suffer slow
attrition, but some food‐anchored district centres could suffer from
new, smaller, out‐of‐town supermarkets. There is a growing amount of
leisure‐based shopping which could work to the advantage of some small
market towns. The tide of out‐of‐town retailing is running so strongly
that the new tighter government policy is unlikely to stop it
completely. Many town centres could contract commercially, but they
could continue to prosper by encouraging housing and services.
Action learning and groupware technologies: a case study in GSS facilitation research
Authors: Yoong Pak , Gallupe Brent
Published: April 2007

Effective meeting facilitation is recognised as a critical factor in group support systems (GSS) use but relatively little is known about how organisations can train and develop their “electronic meeting facilitators”. This article describes an action learning (AL) approach to the training of GSS facilitators. It begins with a description of the three schools of AL. The application of the “experiential” school of AL in GSS facilitation training is then explained. Finally, the article describes some lessons learned for both practitioners and researchers.
Investigating the interplay between structure and information and communications technology in the real estate industry
Authors: Crowston Kevin , Sawyer Steve , Wigand Rolf
Published: April 2007

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are reshaping many industries, often by reshaping how information is shared. However, while the effects and uses of ICT are often associated with organizations (and industries), their use occurs at the individual level. To explore the relationships between individual uses of ICT and changes to organization and industry structures, we examined the residential real estate industry. As agents, buyers and sellers increase their uses of ICT, they also change how they approach their daily work. The increasing uses of ICT are simultaneously altering industry structures by subverting some of the realtors’ control over information while also reinforcing the existing contract‐based structures. This structurational perspective and our findings help to explain why information intermediaries persist when technology‐based perspectives would suggest their disappearance.
Challenges for service leaders: setting the agenda for the virtual learning organization
Authors: Teare Richard , O’Hern Jim
Published: April 2007

Uses a literature‐based review to frame the questions for tomorrow’s learning organization (the review is contained in section 2 of Teare et al., The Virtual University: An Action Paradigm and Process for Workplace Learning, Cassell, London, 1998, 351pp.) and some of the applications are related to the pioneering work conducted by the global lodging organization, Marriott International during 1998/1999, in partnership with International Management Centres. The contention is that the multi‐faceted challenges of service leadership, competitiveness, profitability and return on investment, require a highly responsive and supportive learning community. This delivers on the challenges and derives benefits in the form of rapid access and reduced cost, by utilizing a “virtual” network or university design. Depicts a sequence of “change factors”, “enablers” and “impacts” that provide a reference point framework for learning and for focusing on business outcomes. If these are the key deliverables, what kind of learning process is needed to ensure that managerial and organizational activity is properly aligned? It is proposed that work‐based “action learning” is the only sustainable means of building the intellectual capital and competence of the organization so as to achieve its service leadership and business goals.
A research approach to training: a case study of mystery guest methodology
Authors: Anderson Denise N. , Groves David L. , Lengfelder Julie , Timothy Dallen
Published: April 2007

Tests and analyzes a total quality management (TQM) methodology known as the mystery guest approach. The method involved the development of a research‐based approach to employee training by involving employees in the problem‐solving and strategic planning process. In this case study university student subjects were asked to participate in a focus group format which utilized the critical incidents, importance/performance analysis and planning effectiveness evaluation technique. Participants were organized to take a trip from Bowling Green, Ohio to Quebec City, Quebec with the itinerary including four major points of interest along the way and five on the return. Each point of interest was evaluated as a tourism experience for families. Findings revealed that participants developed their problem‐solving skills and improved their decision‐making abilities. It became apparent to the researchers that a research approach in training has the potential to be used in organizations to build employee loyalty, understanding and confidence.
Determinants of tourism hotel expenditure in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Catherine , Law Rob
Published: April 2007

This paper reports on a study about applying regression techniques to identify the determinants and functional forms of tourism hotel expenditure in Hong Kong. Annual time series data from 1983 to 1997 of average room rate, the number of visitor arrivals, the service price index, and hotel accommodation rates were hypothesised to affect tourism hotel expenditure. Seven exogenous variables were selected for regression model development in both linear and log‐linear forms. In view of the potential problems of multicollinearity between the independent variables, and therefore the associated instability of the regression coefficients, stepwise regression analyses were employed to improve the initial model. Final empirical results showed that the hotel expenditure in Hong Kong could be explained by four of the seven exogenous variables. A log‐linear form of the regression model appeared to slightly outperform the linear form.
Managing conferences in regional areas: a practical evaluation in conference management
Authors: Lawrence Meredith , McCabe Vivienne
Published: April 2007

The Meetings, Incentive, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry has long been recognised as a sector that provides lucrative direct and indirect expenditure for host destinations. Within Australia, Federal and State governments have recognised the opportunity afforded by this sector and have put in place a number of marketing initiatives to attract MICE business to particular high profile destinations. The issue of how regional Australia might benefit from this highly attractive market is only now beginning to be addressed. This paper examines how an Australian regional university with an established reputation for the delivery of MICE‐related subjects introduced the issue of attracting MICE business to a regional area into its curriculum through the use of experiential learning. Students were given responsibility for the planning, management and delivery of a corporate‐style conference titled “Managing Conferences in Regional Areas”, while local MICE industry representatives participated in its delivery.
Quality in scholarly publishing
Authors: Whitfield Richard , Peters John
Published: April 2007

Provides a case study featuring initiatives of an international academic publisher – MCB University Press – aimed at the promotion of quality and fitness for purpose in the articles it publishes. Considers “quality variables” such as accessibility, originality and meaningfulness to researchers and practitioners and looks at ways for publishers to work with authors to influence positively such variables. Notes, above all, that the key to success is in the relationship between the publisher and the author and highlights various ways in which MCB is seeking to develop that relationship.
A customer‐supplier interaction model to improve customer focus in turbulent markets
Authors: Griffiths John , Elson Bruce , Amos David
Published: April 2007

In turbulent, highly competitive markets corporate organisations are faced with the dichotomy of “downsizing” their costs, yet at the same time improving the service that they offer their customers. This paper shows how a more market‐orientated approach can bring greater benefits for companies. Additional “soft” services can help to tailor a package of customer service and provide product and service differentiation, while inverting the traditional organisational structure can bring customer and supplier closer and lead to greater collaboration. This requires more open communication systems for the rapid capture, transfer and management of information. This has proved difficult in the past, but Web‐based technology is changing all of that. The paper concludes that all of these features are essential for a customer‐supplier interaction model that can provide the customer with added value in product and service delivery, and the supplier with increased business opportunities.
Practices of excellent companies in the hotel industry
Authors: Ropeter Jennifer C. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: April 2007

Examines three different hotel chains in an attempt to determine the characteristics of excellent hotel companies. Presents information gathered through readings, interviews and individual hotel publications, in order to draw accurate and meaningful conclusions as to the necessary elements in managing and running a successful hotel. The hotels evaluated are Sheraton‐ITT; Marriott; and Hilton. Focuses on service to customers in a clearly service‐oriented industry. Makes recommendations and suggestions as to the successful management and operation of a hotel outfit.
ISO 9004‐2 quality management system ‐ the way to world‐class service
Authors: Chan Y.K. , Neailey K. , Ip W.H.
Published: April 2007

ISO 9000 series standards and total quality management (TQM) are two widely accepted approaches to quality management. The effectiveness of establishing a quality system on the basis of the former standards depends on the degree of understanding them. The tendency of adopting ISO 9001 and ISO 9002 standards for certification for the service industry, however, may not provide the appropriate quality management system. Service organisations should try to integrate ISO 9004‐2 framework with TQM criteria to establish a fit‐for‐purpose model that can help the organisation provide world‐class service. This paper outlines why and how ISO 9004‐2 standards are used in this report.
Numerical natural convection in a sector‐shaped enclosure
Authors: Sarr Joseph , Sall Mactar , Mansour Kane Mamadou , Ba Bassirou , Daguenet Michel
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this paper is to compare the numerical laminar two‐dimensional unsteady natural convection in a partial sector‐shaped enclosure submitted respectively to a constant heat flux density q1 and a uniform temperature T1 on the inner cylindrical wall. The numerical model performed in this paper is applied more particularly for high Grashof numbers, in order to point out the advent and the development of pre‐turbulent flows. Results of numerical runs are presented. The mean Nusselt number on active walls is represented as a function of the Grashof number Gr and the aspect ratio Fr. The results may be correlated very well with an expression of the form \overlineNu = k1 Gr1k2, for technical calculations.
Boundary integral formulation and mushy zone model for phase change problem
Authors: Ahmed S.G.
Published: April 2007

In the present paper, a simple mushy zone model and the boundary integral technique are applied to solve a phase change moving boundary problem. Owing to the use of the mushy zone model, some mathematical considerations are taken when applying the integral equation at the extreme points of the domain. A numerical algorithm is developed to track the moving boundaries that appear throughout the process. Good accuracy is obtained using the developed algorithm and the results give good agreement with previous solutions.
Core threads of continuous improvement
Authors: Chang Richard
Published: April 2007

Discusses a recent survey of companies which shows that, although
73 per cent of the respondents had implemented total quality
initiatives, 63 per cent of these initiatives were failing. Suggests
that many organizations are trying to implement too many quality
improvement activities too fast without taking the time to develop
systematic, long‐term implementation strategies. Gives guidelines on
critical success factors for continuous improvement, empowerment,
learning and training.
Indian lessons in organizational issues
Authors: Hay Julie
Published: April 2007

Reports on a lecture tour in India, featuring the main themes of change, culture, conflicts and creativity, and examines current Western organizational trends, such as: “decent” behaviour; “cashing out”; the notion of “gold‐collar workers”; and the increasing visibility of women entrepreneurs. Draws an analogy between an organization and a ship in order to demonstrate how to create a culture which can cope effectively with a rapid rate of change.
Drawn into change
Authors: Reddiford Sarah
Published: April 2007

Describes a four‐year study to identify the emotional state of National Health Service and local government senior and middle managers. This was accomplished via managers’ drawings to express their feelings about change. Describes various drawings and discusses their implications.
Design and the Environment
Authors: Tong Gregg
Published: April 2007

Reports on the Management Roundtable′s Second Annual Congress on
Enovironmentally‐consciuous Design and Manufacturing: From Best
Practices to Profit held in Dearborn, Michigan, USA. States that
environmental issues are not a fad, and that environmental factors
should be integrated into the manufacture and design of products.
Investigates the key issues in the implementation of a corporate
environmental programme including cost and time. Examines a few working
examples of corporate environmental programmes and concludes that these
work. Suggests that implementing such programmes is the way forward.
Developing with the Best
Authors: Nichols Keith
Published: April 2007

Operational improvement is being overtaken by the ability to bring
superior, cheaper products on to the market in amazingly short periods
of time. EDS and the Design Council joined forces to initiate the UK
Benchmarking Survey examining how well UK manufacturing companies are
performing in bringing new products to the market. Questionnaires, sent
out in 1992 to a range of discrete manufacturing companies in the UK,
sought opinions from the board room down to the planning offices.
Surveys included questions on time predictability, cast predictability
and engineering changes. Results show a small group of companies are
capable of competing on the top level, while many other companies have
potential but lack the ability to convert investment into results.
Implementing a New Design Process
Authors: Mill Helen , Ion Bill
Published: April 2007

Discusses why many organizations still perform design in an ad
hoc manner, despite the benefits of a structured design process
exemplified by organization such as Land‐Rover and Xerox.Looks at the
experience of three companies which have instituted changes in design
practices and draws conclusions.Lists the benefits gained from such
changes and makes recommendations for their future application.
Customer‐driven Designs through QFD
Authors: Nichols Keith , Flanagan Derek
Published: April 2007

Combines some of the challenges which the authors have experienced
in applying quality function deployment (QFD) to different applications
in achieving better, cheaper, faster products to market. Highlights the
issues, conflicts, decision points and the ways forward in achieving
results. Shares experiences with the reader.
Exploiting the potential
Authors: Ohtani Nobuoki
Published: April 2007

States that industrial design has in the past emphasized styling
and tended to ignore the importance of satisfying consumer needs.
Suggests companies should learn to cultivate designers′ skills by
integrating industrial designers from early on in the process,
harnessing the full potential of industrial design. Indicates that most
Western companies have poor product design management. Suggests that one
way to help improve both integration and design management would be
through extra postgraduate education.
A faster, cheaper and safer route to CE
Authors: Evans Stephen , Lettice Fiona , Smart Palminder
Published: April 2007

Describes the FAST concurrent engineering (CE) implementation
methodology that has been developed by the authors at Cranfield
University, through research and consultancy activities. The methodology
is presented in a paper‐based work‐book and describes three stages a
company could proceed through to take it from an initial interest in CE,
to the successful implementation of a pilot CE product development
project and then expansion. The focus is on the introduction of
multidisciplinary product development teams as the main vehicle for
radically improving product development performance.
Using benchmarking to drive R&D improvement
Authors: Jackson Steve , Gilmore Dean
Published: April 2007

Focuses on the R&D effectiveness index developed by PRTM,
which, when combined with an in‐depth, qualitative assessment of skills
and effectiveness, can provide an accurate measure of overall product
development process performance. The index is defined as the ratio of
new product profit to R&D costs. Describes how the R&D
effectiveness index was used by PRTM for one of its clients to help it
decide how to restructure its R&D organizations.
Computer‐aided concurrent engineering: the SCOPES solution
Authors: Wallace Gary
Published: April 2007

Discusses the crucial integration of engineering and production
knowledge which is the objective behind the SCOPES (Systematic
Concurrent design of Products, Equipments and control Systems) project.
Presents the results of this three‐year project to develop a suite of
integrated software modules which enable design support on the
downstream functions associated with the assembly of mechanical and
electromechanical products throughout the design process. Provides an
outline of overall system architecture and the specifications of the
individual modules – product design, assembly planning, resource
planning, simulation, scheduling and flow control shopfloor control and
monitoring – which make up the SCOPES solution.
The development partner
Authors: McElroy John
Published: April 2007

Outlines a product definition process which has proved to be
successful with the Queensferry Telecom Operation within Hewlett
Packard. The process involves two levels of customer relationship
– one classed as “development partners” – and
the rest as “other” customers. The development partners
directly influence a new product definition with supporting information
drawn from the other customers and the market competition. The other
customers′ needs are addressed after product launch as part of a
follow‐on programme of incremental development.
QFD: setting up for success
Authors: Dickinson Bill
Published: April 2007

Gives advice for those embarking on the QFD path. Specifies what it
is and is not, and what it can do if deployed in the proper manner.
States that it is important to pick the right leader and lists the
factors that lead to QFD team success. Emphasizes the importance of
senior management participation and suggests what is needed to make it
work.
Breathing easier with DFMA
Authors: Parker Miles
Published: April 2007

Illustrates the advantages of goal definitions at the earliest
stages of product design, both for project engineering teams and for the
general management of the design process. Details the progress of a
Respironics team which was given the task of redesigning a manual
resuscitator to meet demanding quality, standards and short
time‐to‐market deadlines. Offers an explanation of their success in
meeting these and other requirements, including reduced cost, improved
ease‐of‐assembly and added features.
Transforming the vision
Authors: Lee Tuttle B.
Published: April 2007

Postulates that once the DFMA team has analysed an original product
concept and improved the manufacturability and ease‐of‐assembly of that
concept, they must change the vision of the product in their mind′s eye
to leap forward. The description of the product verbally in terms of
functions, not features, frees the product from physical form in the
mind′s eye. Once freed from the embodiment of the original product, the
DFMA team can teach‐launch its concept probe to explore strange new
visions, seek out new product concepts and break through the design
paradigms. Contends that the journey of the concept probe through time
and space is fired by the launching of concept triggers that burst new
ideas from the endless darkness of the mind. Explains the development
and the application of some personal DFMA team concept triggers.
Profiles of “successful managers” held by male and female banking managers across Europe
Authors: Cames Isabelle , Vinnicombe Susan , Singh Val
Published: April 2007

Personal conceptions of what constitutes a “successful manager” are important, as they influence an individual’s personal development and subsequent careers. This study investigates profiles of “successful managers” held by male and female managers working in ten European banks operating in Luxembourg. Respondents completed the personality attributes questionnaire (PAQ) and took part in semi‐structured interviews. Results are presented from the 66 managers as a group, and by gender. Next, responses are considered from individuals within three of those banks, chosen by position of the owning/originating country on Hofstede’s masculinity/femininity scale, to see whether differences in perceived successful leadership styles exist between the banks in accordance with Hofstede’s research. Results indicated that gender differences were more significant than nationality of the bank in determining perceptions of “the successful manager”.
The Problematic Nature of Dress for Women Managers
Authors: Catherine Ehrich Lisa
Published: April 2007

Argues that dress is not a straightforward issue for women managers
today. It is problematic on a number of different levels. Women receive
many messages via the media concerning the importance of their
appearance and presentation. The “dressing for success” slogan is
problematic as it infers that success is as easy as donning well‐cut
clothes. Contends that this argument trivializes the difficulties women
managers face when they wish to break the glass ceiling. Highlights the
argument that women managers confront a number of dilemmas as they try
to maintain a “feminine” but “businesslike” presentation, as well as an
“individual” yet socially appropriate style.
Don’t panic: behaviour in major incidents
Authors: Shaw Richard
Published: April 2007

Argues that there are real misunderstandings about survivors’ reactions and their abilities to act rationally and altruistically immediately in the aftermath of a disaster. Illustrates, with case histories from the Thorpe Park fire, a BA jumbo incident, the Paddington rail crash and others. People can and do act rationally, fearlessly and selflessly after major incidents, often reducing loss of life, introducing some sense of order and beginning the real job of rescue and care for the injured.
The cultural context of emergencies
Authors: Rozakis Manolis
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the level of co‐operation among organisations with different backgrounds, professional and regulatory relations and self‐perceptions for the purpose of efficiently managing a disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical concept of this paper is presented within the organisational framework of risk perception and culture, and the interrelation among the involved parties. It will be enriched with cultural theory and the social construction of risk perception, along with the classification of organisations, according to their tasks and structure, proposed by the Disaster Research Center (DRC). In addition, issues on blame, secrecy, decision making and authority, communication, and training involved in the respective cultural context, are examined as the main causes that may prevent a(n) holistic approach to emergency management. On the other hand, the practical element of this study involves a case study analysis of the King's Cross Underground fire, in 1987. The outcome of operations and the 31 casualties reveal the cultural diversity among the involved agents in the managing of the respective disaster. The issue on “symbolic interaction” among agents may determine the institutional position of society during a disaster.

Findings

This paper stresses the potential for isomorphic learning as the most significant issue on the cultural context of organisations, during emergency operations.

Practical implications

In this sense, future practice should embrace the concept of isomorphic learning, within the cultural context of organisations; additional efforts should focus on the mutual exchange of information, resources and personnel among organisations, prior to a disaster.

Originality/value

Finally, this paper offers insight to organizations, in order to reduce the impact of cultural differences among them and enhance the issue of co‐ordination, during emergencies; it may serve the purpose of reducing human casualties, by supporting a(n) holistic approach on disaster management.
Teenage attitudes to bicycle helmets
Authors: Takriti Rachel , Mann Nicholas P. , Lee Angela J.
Published: April 2007

Reports a study investigating teenage attitudes towards bicycle helmets. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 1,093 11‐16‐year‐olds to assess their helmet ownership and use and their attitudes towards bicycle helmets. More 11‐13‐year‐olds owned cycle helmets than 14‐16‐year‐olds, with similar wearing rates across age. Girls placed more importance on whether helmet wearing was compulsory at school and comfort of helmets, while boys placed more importance on whether helmet wearing was compulsory by law. Those who owned helmets were more likely to place importance on whether wearing a helmet was law and whether it was a school rule than were those who did not own helmets. The 11‐13‐year‐olds placed more importance on whether helmet wearing was compulsory at school and by law, while 14‐16‐year‐olds placed more importance on comfort, appearance, cost, and their friends’ opinions as reasons.
Cannabis and Alcohol
Authors: King Adrian
Published: April 2007

Compares past, present and possible future effects and merits/demerits
of using cannabis, and whether it leads to something even “harder” –
like heroin. Shows that past and present governments in the UK and USA
have had various restrictions and derestrictions running at differing
times. Concludes that there would need to be a shift of both public and
political opinion for cannabis to be decriminalized here.
The future of the insurance market – do insurers need crystal balls?
Authors: Rice Eamonn
Published: April 2007

This article looks at the changes in the insurance market which are being forced by new economy pressures. The author considers the squeeze created by consolidation in the financial services market and by globalisation and how companies have responded by creating asset management products and tapping increased customer demand for an ever wider range of products. The benefits of technology are turning the market upside‐down but are benefiting new entrants rather than existing players. The key in the end will be those companies which can add value.
Enterprise risk: who knows my business better than me?
Authors: Mundy Chris
Published: April 2007

The author traces the history and philosophy behind the concept of risk transfer and concentrates on the underlying theory of insurance. He argues that the complexity of the modern business world has meant that the simplicity of the concept has been lost. To this has been added the additional burden of regulation and a greater concentration on risk management. He suggests that the concept of enterprise risk management is the one which cuts this Gordian Knot and describes its benefits in adding value to the enterprise.
Turnbull 2000: corporate governance and the financial sector
Authors: Writer Neal
Published: April 2007

Corporate governance in the financial services sector is influenced by factors peculiar to the industry. The author assesses the influence of analysts and points out that reporting timetables across the industry mean that peer pressure becomes an unusually influential factor. He assesses how this year’s reporting is likely to progress and provides advice to businesses in the financial services sector on how to enhance their corporate governance disclosures.
Building society case study: planning and forecasting
Authors: Kyte Abby
Published: April 2007

Describes, in case study form, how a UK‐based building society installed and operated a new system for financial planning and forecasting. Looks at the objectives, the way in which these were satisfied and how its financial planning and strategic requirements have been changed and enhanced.
Financial change: who is benefiting?
Authors: Neagle Jeff
Published: April 2007

The field of financial services is one of the fastest changing sectors of the economy. The author argues that this and the changing motivation of people working in the financial services sector mean that a new approach is required to ensure that change both can be managed and can benefit the organisation and its staff.
Derivatives – new guidance for auditors
Authors: Billing Keith
Published: April 2007

The Auditing Practices Board (APB), the audit standard setting body for the UK and the Republic of Ireland, has published a Consultation Draft of a Practice Note “Auditing derivative financial instruments”. Here the project director at the APB explains the thinking behind the guidance and explains how auditors should assess the different issues raised by the use of financial instruments.
A revolution in financial reporting
Authors: Damant David
Published: April 2007

The nature of reported financial performance and financial disclosure is undergoing a dramatic change. The author argues that the issue of accounting for financial instruments and its emphasis on fair values goes to the heart of the problem. He argues that the thoughts provided by the AIMR provide the chance for a searchlight into corporate affairs which will create greater stability and guard against the worrying signs that greater instability is likely.
Accounting for financial instruments under IAS: The European dimension
Authors: Moore Richard
Published: April 2007

The proposals on accounting for financial instruments developed by the Joint Working Group look as though they will take several years to sort out. In the meantime listed companies in Europe have to report under international standards by the year 2005. The author looks at how companies, and in particular financial institutions, are going to have to respond to the European deadline.
ABN AMRO: managing interest rate risk
Authors: Ferranti Kimberly
Published: April 2007

The author describes how SunGard installed a sophisticated interest rate risk analysis system for ABN AMRO’s North American headquarters in Chicago. She details the problems involved, the difficulties overcome and the benefits gained.
Quantitative value management: the way ahead
Authors: Mariathasan Joseph
Published: April 2007

Investment markets are becoming less rather than more efficient. The author argues that this is because qualitative analysis depends on individuals who are not objective but rely on value judgements which are sometimes successful and sometimes not. The results also depend on the particular individuals remaining within the organisation. The alternative is quantitative value management, which depends far more on independent number‐crunching and computer analysis.
The role and importance of outsourced independent research
Authors: Bootle Roger
Published: April 2007

In recent years investment research has been produced by banks and investment houses which have conflicting interests between clients as investors and clients as investment targets. This creates problems for large institutional investors. They need independence and more focused investment research. The author argues that buying in independent research will increasingly be the solution to these problems.
The dynamically projected balance sheet: implications for earnings, value and funds transfer pricing
Authors: Fiedler Robert , Brown Karl , Moloney James
Published: April 2007

Advanced software and hardware solutions are enabling institutions to progress from traditional asset liability management to earnings sensitivity and future market valuation across dynamically modelled balance sheets. By implementing pre‐defined management trading strategies across scenarios and through time for the portfolio, firms can not only protect themselves from risk, but also actively manage short‐term earnings against long‐term value and enhance their net worth.
The regulation and distribution of hedge funds in Europe – changes and challenges
Authors: Phillips Graham , Dawson Jerry
Published: April 2007

The growth of the use of hedge funds in both the USA and in Europe has led to greater attempts to regulate the market. The authors provide a guide to the way regulations are likely to be imposed and the differences which may occur in the USA and European markets as a result.
The continuing saga – Basel II developments: bank capital management in the light of Basel II – how to manage capital in financial institutions
Authors: Rowe David , Jovic Dean , Reeves Richard
Published: April 2007

Capital is key to any financial institution. Companies in other industries need capital to buy property and production equipment. For financial institutions, the primary function of capital is to cover unexpected credit and market risks losses, because risk of such losses inevitably accompanies a bank’s core business of lending money and making markets. David Rowe, Dean Jovic and Richard Reeves explain why it is crucial for financial institutions to build an advanced economic capital framework and how that plays into current initiatives to implement the Basel II Capital Accord.
Assessing the regulatory impact: the challenges of UCITS III – Germany’s regulators become the first to launch derivatives ordinance
Authors: Leifert Kai D.
Published: April 2007

UCITS III has direct implications on risk management activities of asset managers. On 13 February 2004, German regulators published a derivatives ordinance (German: “Derivateverodnung”, Derivate V) being the first regulatory body throughout Europe to implement the EU regulation into local law. Since the first draft was issued in late November 2003, the finance industry faced open questions implementing a reasonable approach for managing other people’s money. Until BaFin, the German regulator, held a presentation to clarify their intents, the new regulation was seen as overkill for most asset managers. Since then, opinions have changed in that many industry representatives detect opportunities in the regulation. Full compliance with the proposed qualified approach still implies further investments in the risk management architecture, but the approach is now seen as reasonable.
What color is your balance sheet? The relevance and explanatory power of wealth accounts
Authors: Melse Eric
Published: April 2007

The growing need for more relevant detail in financial statements proper to be produced annually, quarterly or monthly, and possibly continuously, translates into an urgent need for more advanced methods and tools for trend analysis. This paper takes a broader view at balance sheet analysis. We observe balance sheet items at the highest level of aggregation and compare them with the next level of detail. This exposes a multidimensional structure produced by all balance sheet items and their time points. This innovative approach to balance sheet analysis provides a new method to determine the relevance and materiality of accounting information. Instead of computing accounting ratios separately, we apply multivariate analysis as to explore the “data space” of the balance sheet of our example company: 3M. We study ten‐years of quarterly balance sheets and discuss some trends by comparing scatter plots with spectral map analysis – spectramap for short – and color coding to expose latent variables hidden in this data. We substantiate that we can explain the larger part of variance present in balance sheets in a more meaningful manner. This paper also seeks to corroborate the generality assumption that underlies the structure of the balance sheet. We strive to increase the usability of balance sheet data and underpin its explanatory power.
Job performance attributions and career advancement prospects for women in the academic libraries
Authors: Nkereuwem E.E.
Published: April 2007

Examines the role of employee gender in the performance attribution process. Seeks to determine whether library managers attribute a job performance by a woman to different causes then the job performance of a man; whether differences in attributions are attenuated as managers gain more extensive work experience with their supervisors; whether library supervisors performance attributions are related to judgements regarding subordinates career advancement prospects.
A management synopsis of empowerment
Authors: van Oudtshoorn Mike , Thomas Laurie
Published: April 2007

Investigates “empowerment” and its relevance to
management and organizations. Discusses in detail the advantages and
disadvantages of empowerment and disempowerment. Business organizations
are set up so that no one is totally empowered nor totally disempowered.
Shows various stages of empowered and disempowered people and cultures
to enable further progress and concludes that clarifying, coaching and
counselling individuals is the progressive way to go.
Graduates’ perceptions of the quality of MBA programmes
Authors: Louw Lynette , Bosch Johan K. , Venter Danie J.L.
Published: April 2007

The primary purpose of this article is to report on the opinions and perceptions of graduates of the quality and standing of South African Masters of Business Administration (MBA) programmes. This article seeks to assess specific outcomes of the MBA programmes offered by South African business schools; to gauge the quality of the MBA programmes of South African business schools, based on graduates’ perceptions; to extract factors relating to the MBA programme outcomes; and MBA programme quality; and to elicit the opinions of graduates on the future development of the MBA programme in South Africa. The main findings pertain to the MBA graduates’ perceptions of the outcome and quality of the MBA programme as well as the most prominent findings in respect of the open question on the future development of South African MBA programmes, from the perspective of graduates.
Assessment of case study courses
Authors: Peterson Polly A. , Quarstein Vernon A.
Published: April 2007

Objective assessment of educational and training courses has proven to be difficult in the past, and methods employed seldom provide the type of information needed by instructors to make meaningful changes to their teaching methods. This problem has proven particularly difficult for non‐traditional case study courses in which group learning is an important and integral part. The most commonly used approach is to obtain students opinions on how the course was presented and structured. This student based approach is neither objective nor meaningful because it is biased by grades, personalities, and by rigorousness. This research was an attempt to find or develop an assessment model that reduces these biases and provides instructors with meaningful feedback. The research shows that the model is more objective than student based assessments, and provides descriptive input and process information, and output information on individual and group performance and development.
Model calculations to estimate the probability of secret reconstruction in computer environments
Authors: Lee Ching‐Yun , Yeh Yi‐Shiung , Chen Deng‐Jyi
Published: April 2007

Information technologies have ushered in a new era for computer‐related communications. Use of the Internet for commercial applications and resource sharing has accelerated in recent years as well. Owing to such developments, computer security has become a critical issue nowadays. In some applications, a critical message can be divided into pieces and allocated at several different sites over the Internet for security access concern. To access such an important message, one must access the divided pieces from different sites to reconstruct the message. In this paper, we propose model calculations to evaluate the probability of secret reconstruction and a weighted share assignment algorithm for assigning shares on hosts in such a way that the probability to be able to reconstruct the secret becomes the highest. Examples are presented to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Robust intrusion tolerance in information systems
Authors: Ye Nong
Published: April 2007

Intrusions exploit vulnerabilities and introduce external disturbances into information systems to compromise security attributes of information systems such as availability, integrity, and confidentiality. Intrusions into information systems cause faults of software and hardware components in information systems, which then lead to errors and failures of system performance. Intrusion tolerance requires information systems to function correctly in a timely manner even under impact of intrusions. In this paper, we discuss causes, chain effects and barriers of intrusions into information systems, and reveal roles that various information security techniques play in intrusion tolerance. We present two robust intrusion tolerance methods through fault masking: Taguchi’s robust method for system configuration and sharing of resources via an information infrastructure for redundancy.
A policy for sending secret information over communications networks
Authors: Cresson Wood Charles
Published: April 2007

Proposes that one of the fundamental design principles of information security is that information should be consistently protected, and that this principle should apply in all instances. Investigates how policies for sending secret information might be implemented, e.g. by encryption. Concludes that the policy applies to many environments.
Executive information systems in financial institutions: an introduction
Authors: Ramarapu Narender
Published: April 2007

Discusses the use and impact of executive information systems(EISs) for financial institutions. Describes the functions of EISs and suggests the essential elements of a good one: integration of data from multiple sources; timely information reporting; individualized and user friendly. shows how EISs can be used by managers in financial institutions for strategic advantage.
Removal of all unauthorized access paths in production software
Authors: Cresson Wood Charles
Published: April 2007

Presents a policy considered necessary to prevent breaches of security when software is moved from development to production. Contends that although information is a valuable, global commodity it is often unprotected. Presents suggestions to prevent encryption code from being broken. Gives guidelines for the security of encryption keys. Looks at the costs and benefits of encryption, packet encryption and the Internet. Discusses US policy, the US Computer Security Act and the US government proposals for information security
Government initiatives in information technology security
Authors: Orlowski Steve
Published: April 2007

Examines the balance between privacy and law enforcement and initiatives from central governments to retain control. Describes the computer security tools available and discusses the main threats to IT infrastructures.
The evaluation and certification of information security against BS 7799
Authors: Barnard Lynette , von Solms Rossouw
Published: April 2007

Electronic commerce has become a reality, but unfortunately it is held back by the lack of information security associated with it. Business partners will have to prove to each other that they are adequately secured, before electronic commerce will really blossom. This can best be done through a scheme whereby information security can be evaluated and certified. To enable this, some international or generally accepted information security standard needs to act as a memorandum against which evaluation can be conducted. The British Standard, BS 7799, can fulfill this role as it is becoming very well known internationally. This paper proposes a scheme whereby information security, within an organization, can be evaluated against BS 7799 and certification can take place, if successful. This scheme will provide the mutual trust between business partners, as far as information security is concerned, that is required in electronic commerce.
Year 2000 legal and regulatory environment
Authors: Catania Philip
Published: April 2007

The aim of this paper is to survey some of the “hotspots” of potential Y2K‐related legal liability, as well as some of the Y2K regulatory requirements of which organisations need to be aware.
Appraisal and learning in a government agency
Authors: Corbett Barry , Kenny Brian
Published: April 2007

The government agency at the centre of the study is concerned with public welfare. Its appraisal system is based on a “performance management system”, the purpose being to ensure that employees work in the most effective way possible to deliver the agency’s business. Individuals are assessed on how well they have met the behaviour characteristics for selected competencies. A survey of middle management shows that whilst the agency attempts to use its appraisal system as part of a performance management system, the model is to some extent faulted. All the elements of the system are present but they do not necessarily link together as intended. The role of appraisal and the cultural expectation of appraisal are well managed by the performance management system, although the link to competence is weakened by the difficulties middle managers have in relating competence to training and performance. The link to change and learning is shown to be single loop and change that is effected tends to be of a minor nature.