bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telling stories and the practice of collaboration
Authors: Garcia‐Lorenzo Lucia , Nolas Sevasti‐Melissa , de Zeeuw Gerard
Published: March 2008

Purpose

Stories and the telling of stories constitute a major part of our daily life, yet how this happens is not clearly understood. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the ways in which stories challenge the notions of knowledge that are common in the “classical” scientific tradition. It also aims to focus on the function of stories in the collaborative, interpersonal and inter‐organisational dynamics of the way knowledge is built up in daily life.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores changes in the notion of knowledge (and what is considered scientific method). Firstly, it identifies various genealogies in which previous limitations on the experiences to be included as knowledge have been extended. Secondly, the paper will look at experiences that link to the telling of stories, and explore the way they challenge as well as link to previous notions and extensions of knowledge in collaborative contexts.

Findings

A core characteristic of stories and their telling is an increase in people's awareness both of others as sources of intentional variation as well as of their cultural and human heritage.

Originality/value

The paper initiates a much‐needed discussion of the nature of knowledge as it relates to story telling. It links the experiences elicited by story telling to a genealogy of knowledge that identifies the difficulties of including experiences other than observations (e.g. uncertainty, intentionality). To study stories one needs to search for constraints on how individuals link to other individuals. The paper proposes how one might study stories by considering how they contribute to an extension of existing concepts of knowledge.
A democratic story: collaboration in the use of public budget
Authors: Bocatto Evandro , Perez de Toledo Eloisa
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how the notion of “storying collaboration” can benefit democratic participation, collaboration among different social actors, and local development.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology relies initially on a hermeneutical epistemological view which also incorporates Aristotelian analysis of speech as a deconstructive tool. Initial findings suggest a further shift in approach towards the assumptions made by critical theory. The basic methodological tool is in‐depth interviews. The level of analysis is the individual who participates in collaborative processes.

Findings

The paper shows how collaboration is unlikely to be successful in situations where certain key conditions are absent. Ultimately, what may be seen as a conversion process reveals a circular sequence of ideals, acts and outcomes in which stories about the future become realities and realities become new stories.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that the creation of appropriate environments is required in order for individuals to become aware of their wishes and demands and make conscious choices. If the actors involved are aware of the rhetorical components of speech, then they can utilise them to persuade others. The storyteller must take into consideration which kind of assumptions, intentions and orientations respect individual and social notions of legitimacy and, thus, are likely to succeed.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the use of a bricolage of methodologies in order to shed light on the role of stories in the collaborative process.
Discursive tensions in collaboration: stories of the marketplace
Authors: Ellis Nick
Published: March 2008

Purpose

If stories can create promising practices, what does talk of “collaboration” mean in the context of what would appear to be market‐based inter‐firm relationships (IFRs)? How do managers trying to cope in industrial sectors make sense of supply chain relationships? This empirically driven paper attempts to shed some light on these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The stories collected here show how a subtle analysis of actors’ “network theories” revealed within the language of IFRs can facilitate the study of collaboration. Discourse analysis of interview material is used to illustrate how managers draw upon a series of interpretive repertoires in order to make sense of IFRs within three contrasting “supply chains” or “marketing channels”.

Findings

Managerial accounts, often in the form of “micro‐stories”, illustrate how these participants argue persuasively for a “landscape” of next possible actions. This is a landscape that, despite being moulded in part by ideas of network partnerships and “relationship marketing”, is more strongly shaped by notions of chains and marketplaces. The paper argues that the discursively constructed network theories of managers constrain their thoughts and actions as they attempt to manage relationships in supply chain contexts. Ultimately, participants appear to forego the opportunities promised by collaborative partnerships; instead their accounts suggest that they retain a world‐view dominated by a competitive market orientation.

Originality/value

Studies that reflect a better understanding of such stories of the marketplace may enable researchers to disseminate findings that help practitioners make more sense of the tensions inherent in inter‐firm collaborations.
Characters in stories of collaboration
Authors: Hibbert Paul , Beech Nic
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the ways in which narratives of collaborations tagged as successful may be constructed around common characterizations of participants, in order to provide insights to the ways in which stories may be constructed as vehicles for the adoption or adaptation of good or promising practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative interview data from three collaborative situations are analysed through a narrative‐centred procedure with a particular focus on micro‐stories.

Findings

The paper provides a set of recurring characterizations observed within narratives of successful collaboration and their employment within the stories offered by collaborating partners. It also suggests the relationship that these characterizations might have to the stimulation or retardation of good collaborative practices.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is derived from interviews in the UK context and extrapolation to other contexts seems plausible but should be conducted cautiously and with reflection.

Originality/value

The particular style of narrative analysis conducted in this work has not been employed to the consideration of collaborative accounts and the characterizations derived may have utility as anchoring elements in stories of collaboration, helpful in both the elicitation and interpretation of such accounts.
A case study into operational team‐working within a UK hospital
Authors: Bamford David , Griffin Michael
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to report on research into human resource management within an operations management environment; specifically, operational team‐work amongst health care workers in a hospital.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight operational teams within a UK National Health Service hospital took part and the research used a combination of survey and group discussions.

Findings

The results show the construct of the team had little operational definition. Key factors identified as contributing to effective team‐working include: leadership; frequency of team meetings; a climate of trust and openness. There was limited evidence of truly multi‐disciplinary teams and of organisational support for team‐working.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology applied was appropriate, generating data to facilitate discussion and draw specific conclusions therefrom. A perceived limitation is the single case approach; however, Remenyi et al. argue this can be enough to add to the body of knowledge. In terms of implications this paper demonstrates that team‐working is no panacea; as part of a bundle of good operations management practices it is associated with efficiency, effectiveness, and in this case improved patient care.

Practical implications

The paper suggests a new input, process, output model of effective team‐working and identifies issues to be faced in adopting a strategy of developing an operational team‐based organisation.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is the conclusion that the importance of operational team‐working is as a paradigm for assessing how effectively individuals and groups work together, rather than as a specific organisational form with an optimal size.
Performance measurement in strategic buyer‐supplier relationships
Authors: Cousins Paul D. , Lawson Benn , Squire Brian
Published: March 2008

Purpose

Close links between buyers and suppliers are increasingly cited as a critical differentiator of high and low performers in global supply chains. While the application of performance measures to manage supplier relationships has been well‐identified and encouraged in the literature, comparatively little research exists on the inter‐organizational socialization mechanisms that underlie the flow of learning and information within supply chains. The authors aim to develop a model positing that socialization mechanisms play an important role in mediating the relationship between supplier performance measures and performance outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural equation model, using a sample of 142 manufacturing and service firms based in the UK, tests this hypothesised model.

Findings

The theoretical framework was supported, with results indicating that socialization mechanisms fully mediate the effects of supplier performance measures (communication and operational‐based) on firm performance.

Practical implications

This study provides additional insights for purchasing managers seeking to improve the management of their strategic supplier relationships. The authors find that monitoring supplier performance is not of itself sufficient, rather, it is the process of socializing the buyer and supplier that is critical to success.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware, no previous supply chain research has examined how supplier performance measurement systems, socialization mechanisms, and firm performance are related. The paper makes a significant contribution to this literature embedding an established theoretical construct (socialization) into the supply chain literature.
Diffusion of online reverse auctions for B2B procurement: an exploratory study
Authors: Schoenherr Tobias
Published: March 2008

Purpose

To investigate the diffusion of online reverse auctions by exploring differences between their early, late and lagging adopters. More specifically, adopter categories are compared against organizational characteristics and auction behavior as a result of learning. Organizational characteristics include number of employees and purchasing authority structure (PAS). Differences in learning are investigated by behavioral manifestations, consisting of the savings achieved, as well as the use of bundles in reverse auctions.

Design/methodology/approach

Four hypotheses were developed based on academic and trade literature. Data were collected with a large‐scale online survey among members of the Institute for Supply Management, receiving 363 complete and useable responses. Records were split into three adopter categories based on whether the respondent's firm adopted reverse auctions early (before April 2002) or late (after April 2002), or whether the adoption was merely planned. Differences related to the time of adoption were explored via nonparametricχ2contingency table analyses. Theχ2statistic was used to determine whether a hypothesis is supported or rejected.

Findings

Adopter categories differ in regards to number of employees, the savings achieved, and their use of bundles. No differences were detected in terms of PAS. Explanations for these findings are provided.

Practical implications

The results support the diffusion of online reverse auctions, provide encouragement for their adoption especially also by smaller firms, and suggest that late adopters are not disadvantaged when compared to their early‐adopting counterparts.

Originality/value

No published studies have investigated the diffusion of online reverse auctions for business‐to‐business procurement, or explored potential differences between early adopters, late adopters and laggards.
Exploring the six sigma phenomenon using multiple case study evidence
Authors: Nonthaleerak Preeprem , Hendry Linda
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This research paper aims to: explore areas of weakness in six sigma implementations that may require enhancements in the methodology; to investigate implementation differences between manufacturing and services; and to investigate critical success factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory empirical evidence is presented from nine case study companies in Thailand, including manufacturers, sales and service companies and a national airline.

Findings

Key findings include: six sigma is more appropriate for high risk, complicated, large‐scale and cross functional projects; the six sigma methodology could be enhanced to ensure that projects are aligned to company goals; the evidence questions standard text book advice that a “Black Belt” (BB) should have a full time role, as a part‐time BB role can be more realistic particularly in a small company and the training materials available need to be improved to be more appropriate for service operations.

Research limitations/implications

The main research limitation is in the number of companies studied and the restriction to companies located in Thailand. In addition, the research is exploratory and future research is needed to look at the issues raised in depth.

Practical implications

All of the findings have practical implications. For example, the conclusion on the nature of the BB role is seen as a key issue for successful use of six sigma in small businesses.

Originality/value

Six sigma has been widely used in industry, but there has been limited rigorous academic research. This paper seeks to identify a series of issues worthy of further attention from the academic community using a rigorous research approach.
Ethernet cuts fieldbus costs in industrial automation
Authors: Hunt James A.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to provide an update on the status of current fieldbuses and high‐speed Ethernet technologies for industrial automation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides information on the various fieldbus technologies for industrial automation connectivity and examines high‐speed deterministic Ethernets for automated manufacturing and assembly plant.

Findings

The paper finds that the standards issue has still not been fully resolved, that Ethernets reduce manufacturing costs compared with conventional fieldbuses, that most effort has gone into making Ethernets work deterministically, rather than concentrating on IT and enterprise resource planning (ERP) integration, and that the internet will increasingly feed real‐time data to ERP levels.

Originality/value

The paper provides information on recent developments in Ethernet technologies.
BMW lifts robot total to 500 at Plant Oxford
Authors: Mortimer John
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to describe how BMW in the UK has increased the number of industrial robots at Plant Oxford in the UK; this plant is part of a production “triangle” that brings together three of its four manufacturing plants in the UK to produce the latest version of the Mini passenger car – the Mini Clubman.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the major production line techniques that are used in the manufacture of the body‐in‐white (BIW) structure as well as the functions of painting and final assembly of the vehicle. The BIW techniques include spot‐welding and ultrasonic weld inspection for parts assembly.

Findings

Over the space of the last three or four years, the management of BMW Group has increased significantly the stature of its UK manufacturing units with the aim of increasing the diversity of models produced, while at the same time achieving greater utilization of its existing capacity, and improving productivity.

Research limitations/implications

The BMW Group continually assesses all of the functions involved in the manufacture of a motor vehicle, and in this context is working both with its own plants and with suppliers of equipment and components to enhance production and quality processes. This includes all of the processes of joining steel and other materials using spot welding and adhesives. There is also much to be gained from the interchange of information between the various plants in the group world‐wide with a view to implementing continuous improvement. The benefits achieved from one process in one particular plant are quickly communicated to other facilities, again with the object of improving quality and productivity. A typical example here is the paint shop.

Practical implications

It is likely that, arising out of greater plant integration and utilization, the management of BMW Group will be able to further increase the capacity of its Mini production units to be in a position to move to the next stage of expansion, namely to reach a target of 300,000 units a year.

Originality/value

BMW continues to rationalise its UK plants in Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall, further integrating these production facilities with those of major component suppliers to produce a finished vehicle. There is a heavy concentration of KUKA robots within the BIW and sub‐assembly manufacturing facilities.
A model for function block communication and diagnostic messaging with EtherNet/IP
Authors: Piggin Richard , Hajarnavis Vivek
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a model for the provision of EtherNet/IP device‐specific function blocks by discrete industry device vendors and to outline how multi‐vendor network environments can benefit from the use of function block programming to encapsulate code for configuring communication, diagnostics and visualisation tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach makes use of function blocks to facilitate simpler use of the EtherNet/IP protocol. The EtherNet/IP messaging mechanisms are described, along with the methodology for configuring communication for both time‐critical and non‐time‐critical messaging, including device‐specific status and diagnostic data. The same approach is utilised for communication to visualisation systems.

Findings

Validation of the model was found to make data transfer between controller and device easier and faster, owing to a reduction in the number of operations a programmer was required to implement. Implementation time was found to be just 6.25 per cent of that needed to achieve the same functionality without the use of function blocks.

Practical implications

The use of function blocks to describe EtherNet/IP communication was tested with a commercial product in an application environment, and subsequently adopted by multiple vendors. A reduction in technical support was noted owing to the use of identical interfaces for multiple device instances. With complete device functionality described and readily available to the end‐user, greater device functionality is utilised and more often may otherwise not have been implemented for time, cost, or complexity reasons.

Originality/value

In the discrete industry, it is uncommon for device vendors to provide device‐specific function blocks describing network communication interfaces and functionality, since they reside in the controller, not the device. This research presents a novel method that provides a consistent, yet flexible approach for the configuration of EtherNet/IP communication for differing devices from multiple vendors within a controller.
An investigation into programmable logic controller software design techniques in the automotive industry
Authors: Hajarnavis Vivek , Young Ken
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the results of an investigation into the techniques used to design factory control systems in the body‐in‐white section of car‐manufacturing plants in Germany, the UK and the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was conducted through a set of semi‐structured interviews with the individuals responsible for planning control system architectures in a number of companies world‐wide.

Findings

The challenges faced by the users of industrial control systems, such as the need to conduct changes quickly, accurately and without errors, are identified. Each organisation participating in this study was seen to use a company‐specific standard to bring commonality to systems and to improve the ease of developing, maintaining and modifying their control systems. Similar software structures were seen to be in use in many of the companies participating in this survey, though in some cases differing attitudes to the use of the same tools were observed.

Practical implications

This work captures, documents and reviews industrial practice in a structured manner, providing an insight into the factors affecting the selection of control system technology by industrial users, and serves as a starting‐point for researchers wishing to investigate the relative importance to industrial practitioners.

Originality/value

Existing work on industrial programming practice is extended by detailing specific software structures used in manufacturing operations in the car industry.
Definition and execution of a generic assembly programming paradigm
Authors: Maaß Jochen , Molkenstruck Sven , Thomas Ulrike , Hesselbach Jürgen , Wahl Friedrich
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a generic robot‐programming paradigm for assembly tasks that overcomes the strong coupling between the motion commands and underlying algorithms of programming languages currently on the market. Therefore, it allows an improved method of assembly task programming.

Design/methodology/approach

A manipulation primitive (MP) is defined which decouples the programming concept from the algorithms. These primitives can be integrated into existing programming languages and are supported by an intuitive graph‐based language which is introduced in this paper. An open reference architecture to support those primitive‐based programming languages has been designed.

Findings

It is possible to describe complex assembly tasks such as manipulation on conveyors or sensor‐integrated compliant motion without abandoning the generality of the programming paradigm. Execution on a reference control system has proven to be successful for several manipulation tasks on different machines.

Originality/value

A complete definition of the MP and a graphical language based on this primitive is given, accompanied by extensive detail information on crucial aspects of the control architecture such as modular trajectory generation, generic interfaces, and real‐time task scheduling.
High‐speed TFT LCD defect‐detection system with genetic algorithm
Authors: Lin Chern‐Sheng , Liao Yo‐Chang , Lay Yun‐Long , Lee Kun‐Chen , Yeh Mau‐Shiun
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop an automatic optical inspection system for thin film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD).

Design/methodology/approach

A new algorithm that accounts for the closing, opening, etching, dilating, and genetic method is used. It helps to calculate the location and rotation angle for transistor patterns precisely and quickly. The system can adjust inspection platform parameters according to viewed performance. The parameter adaptation occurs in parallel with running the genetic algorithm and imaging processing methods. The proposed method is compared with the algorithms that use artificial parameter sets.

Findings

This system ensures high quality in an LCD production line. This multipurpose image‐based measurement method uses unsophisticated and economical equipment, and it also detects defects in the micro‐fabrication process.

Originality/value

The experiment's results show that the proposed method offers advantages over other competing methods.
The “new” policy partnership
Authors: Gatta Mary , McCabe Kevin P.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce this special issue on “the ‘new’ policy partnership”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper highlights the significance of policy‐academic partnerships and outlines the papers included in this issue.

Findings

It is important to form and maintain partnerships and collaborations with new nontraditional stakeholders. One place where this is evident is in academia.

Originality/value

The special issue includes original articles that address innovative ways in which researchers and policy makers can collaborate to move policy agendas forward.
Voices from the past, lessons for the future
Authors: Zimmerman Julie N.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

As academic fields increasingly turn to social action and seek partnerships with groups beyond the academy, so too are we looking for guidance. Rural sociology developed out of applying research to social action and within this field was a unique unit. The purpose of this paper is to present a history of the Division of Farm Population and Rural Life, which was part of the US Department of Agriculture from 1919 to 1953 was a pioneer in applying sociological knowledge to policy and action.

Design/methodology/approach

This article looks back to the history of this unit to examine the lessons to be learned.

Findings

Placing these lessons within the context of contemporary issues underscores the continuing relevance of this historical experience.

Originality/value

The issues surrounding engaging external partners are both particularistic and universal. However, without an historical sense of the challenges, each time we encounter them, the challenges feel new and somehow unique. This article looks back to history to examine lessons that can be learned. Placing these lessons within the context of contemporary issues underscores relevance of the historical experience from events and people that occurred several generations of professionals ago.
Connecting fractured lives to a fragmented system: Chicago housing for health partnership
Authors: George Christine , Nargang Chernega Jennifer , Stawiski Sarah , Figert Anne , Valdivia Bendixen Arturo
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the nation's first hospital to housing for homeless individuals. The Chicago Housing for Health Partnership (CHHP), a Housing First and Harm Reduction model, creates a new comprehensive system of health care, housing and supportive services.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers conducted a year long process evaluation of the housing program using a multi‐method approach, which involved qualitative interviews, focus groups, document analysis and observations. The paper examined the CHHP system at three different levels (the administrative, service provision and the client levels).

Findings

The study allowed the organizational participants the ability to better understand their program by visually modeling the system for the first time and documenting its effectiveness. It also furthered the understanding of how and why the housing first model is best accompanied by a harm reduction approach. Finally, the paper was able to show how and why organizational system design is important in creating the most effective environment in which programs have a real impact.

Originality/value

The authors were able to help CHHP program leaders conduct strategic planning and to present their program as an effective model future funding agencies and to policy makers. CHHP has incorporated the recommendations into their permanent model. In addition, the CHHP leadership, in a network with other Housing First advocates, has disseminated the findings at national conferences and networking meetings. The authors' relationship with CHHP will continue with the design of a second stage research strategy in order to continue research on Harm Reduction Housing and policy advocacy.
Owning and implementing labour market research
Authors: Bennett Cinnamon
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the Gender, Employment and Local Labour Market (GELLM) Programme of Research (2003‐2006), which is delivered through a partnership of academics, policy‐makers, trade unions and practitioners at national and local levels of the UK, directed by Professor Sue Yeandle of Sheffield Hallam University. It discusses the contractual and task‐based relationships, which are set up among the partners and the ways in which the research process is designed and executed collaboratively. The GELLM partnership is maintained without complicated information technology or customised training, relying instead on the commitment of the individuals involved and a very clear and well managed face‐to‐face report‐back structure. The paper concludes by analysing the criteria that made this partnership work successfully and the types of impact it is able to achieve locally and nationally on gender equality policy‐making.

Design/methodology/approach

The aims and objectives of the research programme included the production in partnership of gender‐disaggregated “Gender Profiles” of the labour market in 12 local authorities, awareness‐raising about gendered inequality in their local labour markets, and the exploration of specific issues in new, multi‐method local research studies whose focus is agreed with the project partners with a view to “gender mainstreaming” the research findings.

Findings

The GELLM research findings are not discussed as the focus is on the partnership arrangements.

Originality/value

Criteria for the successful working of the partnership, and the challenges faced are discussed in the paper.
Interview: Jane Oates on collaborations between academia and government policy makers
Authors: Boyer Teresa M.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this interview is to gain insight from the career of policy‐maker and researcher, Jane Oates, on the collaborations between academia and government to effect social change.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based on an interview with Jane Oates conducted in May of 2007.

Findings

Based on her experiences, she states that social change requires a three‐way partnership between academia, government, and the people they serve. She makes specific recommendations for the ways these groups can find a common language to reach their shared goals.

Originality/value

This account provides the unique perspective of a professional who has spent years in both academia and policy‐making.
The Joytoy Company
Authors: Patten Lynne
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase the student's knowledge of the value chain and its importance in managing costs.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a teaching case with practical implications, which also includes teaching notes.

Findings

It is important to effectively manage a company's value chain. A clear understanding of the value chain, combined with effective management of all aspects of the value chain can often lead to a competitive advantage in today's business environment.

Practical implications

A company can improve decision making with a clear understanding of the value chain.

Originality/value

This case presents a practical and straightforward approach for instructors to explain the value chain concept and how important managing the value chain can be to the company's overall success.
The role of technical skill in perceptions of managerial performance
Authors: Hysong Sylvia J.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether technical skill provides incremental value over managerial skill in managerial performance for first‐tier managers, and explore potential mediators of this relationship. Hypotheses: technical skill incrementally predicts managerial performance; referent and expert power mediate this relationship; and inspirational appeals and rational persuasion mediate the relationship between power and managerial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 107 first‐tier supervisors from local petrochemical and engineering companies completed an online survey about their professional background and managerial skills; subordinates rated supervisors' technical skill, power, and influence tactic habits. Managerial performance was measured as: production output, subordinate job satisfaction, and subordinate ratings.

Findings

Technical skill incrementally predicted subordinate perceptions of managerial performance over managerial skill. Referent power mediated the relationship between technical skill and both subordinate ratings and job satisfaction; expert power only mediated for job satisfaction. Rational persuasion mediated the relationship between expert power and subordinate ratings of managerial performance.

Research limitations/implications

Clear measurement of multidimensional constructs such as managerial performance and technical skill is essential. Limitations include self‐selection bias and availability of objective technical skill measures. Future research should develop component‐based measures of these constructs.

Practical implications

Technical skill is valuable to managers as a source of credibility and a means to identify with subordinates. Technical skill should not, therefore, be the most important criterion in selecting technical managers.

Originality/value

This study helps technical managers better leverage their technical skills in managerial contexts, and provides new research directions for component‐based performance measurement.
TQM implementation and change management in an unfavourable environment
Authors: Jones Jefferey P. , Seraphim Daniele
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The total quality management (TQM) concept was originally developed to increase the efficiency of occidental and Japanese organisations. As a consequence of its success there, it has spread world‐wide. Companies in many developing countries are attempting its implementation. However, the cultural environment in these countries may be significantly different from the prevalent one in the regions where TQM has flourished. This paper aims to examine the potential for successful TQM implementation in a “theoretically” unfavourable TQM environment, and what can be expected from such implementation if it is successful.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a case of a company with characteristics that are in conflict with what are accepted to be necessary for successful implementation of TQM. The development of TQM in the company is examined and successes and failures in the implementation process they implemented are evaluated. The degree of success in implementing TQM is assessed through the changes that resulted in both internal performance indicators and an independent external governmental evaluation of the company.

Findings

It is possible to implement TQM principles in an environment deficient in factors that are generally accepted as critical to its successful implementation. The identification of and reaction to cultural difficulties are central to a successful TQM implementation approach taken. Positive outcomes may exceed, in terms of speed and scale, what could be expected from the occidental/Japanese model for successful TQM implementation.

Research limitations/implications

As the research is based on a specific case study, it does not provide a proof that all companies in unfavourable environments can benefit from TQM implementation.

Originality/value

Very little research is currently available about TQM implementation in unfavourable environments, about how to deal with these specificities, and what benefits can realistically be expected if the implementation is successful.
Diversity and learning for innovation: dialogue for collaboration
Authors: Rose‐Anderssen Christen , Allen Peter M.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an approach for improving linguistic skills to enhance work collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework has been developed using principles of complex systems thinking, cultural‐historical activity theory and theories of intercultural communication in an action research setting.

Findings

Organisational development and change are never a straightforward task, which the case clearly demonstrates. These are tension‐filled processes of continuously changing power relationships and distances between people. The development of shared sense making is an iterative learning process. Co‐developing shared communication strategies enhances dialogue and collaboration.

Research limitations/implications

A single and in practice unsuccessful case has been the basis of the research findings. Although saturation of data was therefore never reached, typical inhibiting factors were brought to the surface. Controversy and underlying inhibitions may not always be easy to detect in successful cases. The understanding from this unsuccessful case may therefore be helpful for further research.

Practical implications

Collaboration and change in the workplace are complex processes and are therefore difficult to implement. Collective approaches for developing communication strategies are highly dependent on including all affected actors.

Originality/value

The realisation of the complexity of organisational change processes is important. This creates an awareness of a need and responsibility for everyone affected to try and co‐develop the practices for change. It is the bringing together of the diverse experiences into learning processes through dialogue that facilitates these changes. There must be an appreciation that the outcome is still unpredictable in a process of change. Collective ownership of the changes is essential for success.
Who will be committed to an organization that provides support for employee development?
Authors: Maurer Todd J. , Lippstreu Michael
Published: March 2008

Purpose

A prevailing notion in the management development literature is that support for employee development by organizations is positively associated with organizational commitment by employees. This paper aims to examine whether learning and performance goal orientations of employees act as moderators of this effect. The authors hypothesized that support for development would have differential effects on commitment depending on the goal orientations of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were obtained in a sample of 651 employees from across the US workforce using a two‐wave internet survey sampling method.

Findings

The authors found that perceived support for development is positively related to commitment for some workers; however, individual learning and performance orientations act as moderators. For some individuals, support for development by an organization will not be associated with greater commitment and might even be negatively associated with commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The data are self‐reported; however, methodological steps were taken to reduce risk of a negative impact on results.

Practical implications

The notion that support for employee development enhances organizational commitment is widely accepted, and significant resources are sometimes devoted to leveraging development as a source of competitive advantage in recruiting and employee retention. The findings show the importance of understanding individual differences in this context because they may make a difference in how development affects commitment. Options are discussed for organizations in which learning and development are required and not all people are oriented toward learning.

Originality/value

This paper illustrates that it is important to understand psychological differences in employees to effectively understand and manage an employee development initiative to have optimal impact.
Business schools: a new sense of purpose
Authors: Hay Michael
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the purpose of the business school in light of the growing globalization of the business world.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates the purpose of the business school, with views from the literature. It also presents views as to the purpose of the business school today.

Findings

The paper finds that the purpose of the business school is to create value in the forms of academic, personal and public or social value.

Originality/value

This paper has interesting information as to the purpose and role of business schools in the globalizing modern world.
A clear sense of purpose? The evolving role of the business school
Authors: Starkey Ken , Tempest Sue
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to question the purpose of the business school and its role in management education.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops an historical analysis of the origins, development and identity of the business school, reflecting the views of the business school's multiple stakeholders. The paper reviews traditional business school design and how this is driven by particular concepts of purpose and identity. It questions whether these concepts are sustainable in the light of current forces for change.

Findings

The paper identifies the current major design challenges facing business schools as knowledge, narratives and practices and argues for a new narrative of sustainable strategic management as a guiding force for future development.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the current knowledge challenges facing business schools and argues that business schools need to rethink their focus on “school” as well as “business”.
The globalization of business education: through the lens of semiglobalization
Authors: Ghemawat Pankaj
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a personal perspective on the extent to which business schools have globalized what they teach and to make content‐ and process‐related suggestions about how to make further progress.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a mixture of quantitative and qualitative/interpretative analysis.

Findings

The paper finds that rhetoric around the globalization of business education has greatly outrun the reality of curricular change and this problem seems unlikely to be solved until the craving for distinctively global content can be satisfied.

Research limitations/implications

Semiglobalization – the intermediate state of integration in which neither the bridges nor the borders between countries can be ignored – is proposed as a conceptual umbrella for organizing curricular change and in terms, of process, a two‐track‐approach, combining infusion and insertion, is recommended.

Originality/value

Both the conceptual and procedural recommendations of this paper are novel.
Technology and the business school world
Authors: Fleck James
Published: March 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to consider the range of technologies currently affecting the business school world, and to draw out some of the implications and ramifications that we should bear in mind.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on insights from other analyses of technology development, the paper starts from a broad view of technology as including organisational and cultural aspects as well as the narrowly instrumental “hardware” aspects to analyse how technology is affecting how business schools will operate in the future.

Findings

Several important general observations are argued for: first, technical elements can be used in different ways to realise a range of distinct business and learning models. Second, technology can be deployed either to sustain existing operations or to disrupt them in fundamental ways. And third, those running Business Schools can, and should, actively “shape” technology, as otherwise they shall by default become victims of its impact.

Originality/value

The paper reveals that, deans must ensure their schools actively explore the immense potential and the wide ramifications of the new technologies coming on stream in the context of increasing globalisation, rather than just waiting to adopt passively the technologies that become available. That is, they should become technology makers rather than merely technology takers. Nevertheless, deans should also remember that technology is always just the means to an end, and so they have to be clear about what their purposes (ends) actually are.
Are business schools studying and teaching the right things?
Authors: Ulrich Maerki Hans
Published: March 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to raise awareness of the importance of services as a subject for scientific research and teaching. Services represent the majority of the world economy but universities and business schools have not generally considered services to be an appropriate subject for scientific research and teaching. With the help of industry, universities and business schools need to bring together a variety of current academic disciplines, including engineering, statistics, management theory, and human psychology, to develop a formal, interdisciplinary curriculum around service science. It is imperative that we do this to drive much needed service innovation and to equip graduates for the jobs of tomorrow.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on first‐hand experience of working with over 50 universities from around the world which are developing service science as an academic discipline and research topic.

Findings

The paper finds that the number of business schools and universities running service science on their curriculum is on the rise. By being part of the Service Science, Management and Engineering (SSME) academic initiative, business schools and universities are enabling their graduates to benefit from the swiftly growing service sector and strengthening their linkages with business.

Originality/value

This paper sets out to inspire academic and business school leaders to find out more about SSME.
Ant colony optimization for finding medians of weighted graphs
Authors: Kaveh A. , Sharafi P.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

Medians of a graph have many applications in engineering. Optimal locations for facility centers, distribution of centers and domain decomposition for parallel computation are a few examples of such applications. In this paper, a new ant system (AS) algorithm based on the idea of using two sets of ants, named active and passive ants is proposed for the problem of finding k‐medians of a weighted graph or the facility location problem on a network.

Design/methodology/approach

The structure of the algorithm is derived from two known heuristics; namely, rank‐based AS and max‐min ant system with some adjustments in pheromone updating and locating the ants on the graph nodes. The algorithms are designed with and without a local search.

Findings

An efficient algorithm for location finding, and the novel application of an ant colony system can be considered as the main contribution of this paper.

Originality/value

Combining two different tools; namely, graph theory and AS algorithm results in an efficient and accurate method for location finding. The results are compared to those of another algorithm based on the theory of graphs.