bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reference service without the desk
Authors: Arndt Theresa S.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This article aims to describe how a college library critically examined its maintenance of a traditional reference desk for in‐person services and changed its service model to suit local needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The author examined quantitative and qualitative reference use data prior to changing the service model, and the purpose of reference services was formally articulated. Following the change the author again examined use data, conducted a convenience sample survey, and measured visits to the web site.

Findings

The author came to the conclusion that while maintaining in‐person reference was important for the library, a separate desk was not the best means of providing service at the college. Following the change to the service model, use of reference and consultation services dramatically increased.

Originality/value

The new on‐call, consultative reference service model is described, as is a description of how they managed the change process internally, how they marketed reference services to the students, and how they are assessing the results. Considerations for choosing a reference model appropriate to one's local conditions are outlined.
Reference at the commons: a case study
Authors: Lee Marta , Ritterbush Jon , Sivigny Robert
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether relocating the reference desk closer to the main entrance has factored into increased reference activity at Regent University Library.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistics from 1992/1993 through 2007/2008 were examined to see whether gate counts and questions asked went up, down or remained steady.

Findings

Technology changes and user expectations have affected reference service at Regent University Library. Even though the number of patrons coming to the library has declined, the number of questions being asked through e‐mail and the telephone has risen slightly. Librarians have also seen an increase in students making appointments for extended assistance.

Research limitations/implications

This case study examines the decline in gate counts and reference activity at one academic library during a period of enrollment growth. Changes to the layout and location of the reference desk resulted in an increase of in‐person reference transactions.

Practical implications

Evaluation of usage statistics documents the strong correlation between library visits and reference transactions. Both of these figures have dropped significantly during the past decade, and only recently have shown increases. Following the relocation of the reference desk, the library recorded increases in total reference questions and in‐person questions. There has been an increase in the proportion of questions received in‐person at the new location.

Originality/value

A case study covers the changing role of the reference desk at one academic library from a separate, free standing desk to a consolidated information commons model. Each stage in the development is discussed, with analysis of the impact on reference question activity and the effect of close proximity to the front door of the library.
The @One service environment: information services for and by the millennial generation
Authors: Zink Steven D. , Medaille Ann , Mundt Madeline , Colegrove Patrick T. , Aldrich Duncan
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss an academic library's need to engage all available resources to provide the services required by the changing uses, formats, and production of information.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the @One service environment as a case study. The service and staffing model employed a sample of 20 students and professionals who work at the @One desk. Attitudes toward the @One space were assessed through one‐on‐one interviews using two different interview protocols. Participants were asked open‐ended questions that allowed them to talk at length in response.

Findings

It is found that the University of Nevada, Reno's Mathewson‐IGT Knowledge Center has implemented a highly interactive service environment in support of production‐intensive information technologies. Professionals from numerous information disciplines participate in staffing the department, but student staff constitute the core of service delivery.

Originality/value

This paper provides information on an interactive staffing model in a US university.
Becoming a renaissance reference librarian in academe
Authors: Smith Debbi A. , Oliva Victor T.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This article aims to explore the attitudes of academic reference librarians toward generalist and subject specialist reference service, and to present an examination of the ways that these librarians obtain training to handle a range of research queries that fall outside their areas of expertise.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature search was conducted to explore the current best practices for ongoing professional training. A follow up survey was conducted among reference librarians to gain insights into their attitudes toward generalist and subject specialist reference activities, and their participation in, and attitudes toward, related professional education and training.

Findings

The results suggest that the reference librarians who responded have a high comfort level for answering queries in a range of subject areas, and that while some librarians may defer to a readily available subject expert this is not a reflection of their confidence in their own ability to have assisted the patron.

Practical implications

Based on the insights garnered from this survey, the authors did an additional review of the literature and incorporated the additional research for their conclusions and recommendations as to how reference librarians, regardless of whether they regard themselves as generalists or specialists, can best expand their knowledge of reference sources in additional fields and answer queries outside their areas of expertise.

Originality/value

Other libraries and reference librarians can use the results of the paper to develop their own training/professional development programs and activities.
Web 2.0 for reference services staff training and communication
Authors: Currie Jane P.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on applications of Web 2.0 that improve training and communication within the reference services department.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses some of the best known and most heavily used examples of Web 2.0: blogs, calendars, wikis, RSS, image collections, podcasts or vodcasts, social bookmarks, text messages, instant messages, and social networks.

Findings

Implementing Web 2.0 tools to coordinate communication and training creates a dynamic, interactive system for sharing procedures, ideas, and new developments within a reference services department.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful insight into training staff using Web 2.0 applications.
Pecha Kucha: using “lightning talk” in university instruction
Authors: Courtney Klentzin Jacqueline , Bounds Paladino Emily , Johnston Bruce , Devine Christopher
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an examination of the scholarly literature regarding both the pedagogical and practical aspects of PowerPoint.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used a post‐test experimental design to determine the effectiveness of a Pecha Kucha presentation when compared to a traditional, untimed PowerPoint‐enhanced lecture.

Findings

The results of this literature review and subsequent experimental study suggest that Pecha Kucha can be an effective instructional technique that should be considered for inclusion in the university classroom.

Originality/value

Provides an examination of the pedagogical and practical aspects of PowerPoint.
Assessing the assessment: how institutions administered, interpreted, and used SAILS
Authors: Lym Brian , Grossman Hal , Yannotta Lauren , Talih Makram
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to address the administration of Standardized Assessment of Information Literacy Skills (SAILS), the use of SAILS report data, and respondent perceptions of the utility of SAILS at institutions that comprise the “All Institutions Benchmark” – the institutions which participated in the SAILS testing through the Spring 2007 testing period.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data for the study. Overall response rate for the survey was 63.9 percent. Disregarding unusable responses, the response rate for the data analysis was 57.8 percent.

Findings

The large majority of institutions used convenience sampling in administering SAILS. With regard to the SAILS report data, there are indications that those institutions that received support for data analysis were more likely to find the results useful; the utility of the SAILS report data can also be correlated with institutional type.

Practical implications

Results from this study suggest that SAILS can be most effective if there is statistical/institutional research support for data analysis, if the sampling method for selecting test takers is more rigorous, if SAILS is used in conjunction with other instruments, and if the SAILS data is correlated with other institutional data.

Originality/value

There have been few published studies on the large‐scale administration of standardized information literacy assessments. Moreover, there has been no other published research study assessing multiple institutions' experience of administering SAILS and using SAILS results. Institutions interested in the use of SAILS and other well‐known standardized information literacy tests will find this paper especially relevant.
Outlook report on the future of European assembly automation
Authors: Onori Mauro , Barata Oliveira José
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This roadmap is primarily concerned with the adaptive assembly technology situation in Europe, a topic of particular interest as assembly is often the final process within manufacturing operations. Being the final set of operations on the product, and being traditionally labour‐intensive, assembly has been considerably affected by globalisation. Therefore, unlike most technology roadmaps, this report will not focus solely on particular technologies, but will strive to form a broader perspective on the conditions that may come to influence the opportunities, including political aspects and scientific paradigms. The purpose of this paper is to convey a complete view of the global mechanisms that may come to affect technological breakthroughs, and also present strategies that may better prepare for such a forecast.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes a technological roadmap.

Findings

This paper provides a complete overview of all aspects that may come to affect assembly in Europe within the next 20 years.

Originality/value

The paper gives an original Evolvable Ultra Precision Assembly Systems FP6 project result which will be of general interest for strategic R&D.
Palletizing candy orders and never squeezing the chocolates
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the innovative system developed to automatically palletize orders of cartons of candy for shipment to distribution centers.

Design/methodology/approach

Designers study the manual system employed by the customer and focused on dividing the workload across robotic and traditional palletizing equipment.

Findings

As many as 15 workers could be redistributed to other areas of the plant, as well as helping to prevent injuries, without increasing floor space needed.

Practical implications

Robotics can be very useful but are not always the correct answer for all aspects of every application.

Originality/value

Knowing what others have accomplished can be very useful in structuring an approach to a new automated assembly requirement.
Integrated laser cell for combined laser cladding and milling
Authors: Nowotny Steffen , Muenster Robert , Scharek Siegfried , Beyer Eckhard
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Laser materials processing system technology has become indispensible to the tool and die manufacturing industries and for repairing engines and turbines. The laser build‐up welding process especially is now a standard technology where cost efficient, precisely localized and near net shape repair welds are required. The concept of integrating the modular laser components into standard machine tools makes the technology easily accessible to the user and very efficiently combines build‐up welding and metal‐cutting processes.

Design/methodology/approach

Specially designed laser system technology is available as add‐on kits for different machine tools of the end‐users. They can choose from a large variety of laser sources, manufacturing heads, welding material supply as well as process control devices. User‐friendly software guides through the entire process chain. So, optimized laser systems for different cladding and build‐up applications can be installed easily and inexpensively in common turning and milling machines.

Findings

The laser integration into machine tools connects efficiently laser and mechanical finish operations. This way, repairs, rapid design changes, and direct manufacturing of parts are available with a high level of accuracy and in very short times. Additionally, exactly specified property profiles can be realized.

Originality/value

The laser application shown here represents a new technical solution of laser integration into machine tools, which offers an efficient complete machining. It allows to quickly switch between milling and laser processing, which simplifies the combination of both processes. The computer numerical controlled process control treats the laser head just like a milling tool. This shortens the machining time and expands the capability of the machine with respect to generating multiple shapes.
Technology review for mass customisation using rapid manufacturing
Authors: Eyers Daniel , Dotchev Krassimir
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the opportunities and challenges of mass customisation (MC), together with the possibilities for enablement using the technologies of rapid manufacturing (RM).

Design/methodology/approach

A thorough evaluation of numerous approaches to RM of customised products is presented, with particular focus on relative advantages and limitations of each technology. To demonstrate the applicability of specific techniques, case studies from both consumer and medical applications are reported based on original research.

Findings

The paper highlights not only the opportunities for RM technologies, but also the limitations of specific processes. This approach provides guidance for practitioners in the selection of appropriate technologies for MC enablement.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of this practitioner review is limited to proprietary RM materials and systems which are already commercially available, with relatively little attention given the technologies presently in development.

Originality/value

Whilst RM and MC have already received much attention in the literature, comparatively little consideration has been given to the unification of both concepts. This paper has particular emphasis on this unification with respect to the selection of appropriate technologies, and presents an appraisal of existing applications making use of RM. Through this approach, practitioners gain information in the selection of appropriate technologies for MC.
An automated apparatus for dynamic inspection of mass‐produced custom parts
Authors: Davrajh Shaniel , Bright Glen
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Quality control and part inspection add no monetary value to a product, yet are essential processes for manufacturers who want to maintain product quality. Mass‐produced custom parts require processes that are able to perform high frequency of inspection, whilst providing rapid response to unanticipated changes in parameters such as throughputs, dimensions and tolerances. Frequent inspection of these parts significantly impacts inspection times involved. A method of reducing the impact of high‐frequency inspection on production rates is needed. This paper addresses these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper involves the research, design, construction, assembly and implementation of an automated apparatus, used for the visual inspection of moving custom parts. Inspection occurred at user‐defined regions of interest (ROIs). Mechatronic Engineering principles are used to integrate sensor articulation, image acquisition and image‐processing systems. The apparatus is tested in a computer‐integrated manufacturing (CIM) cell for quantifying results.

Findings

Specified production rates are maintained whilst performing high frequencies of inspection, without stoppage of parts along the production line.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of these results lie in the fact that they are suited only to the speed of the CIM cell. Higher inspection rates may be achieved, and changes in the design may be required in order to make the apparatus more suitable to industrial applications.

Practical implications

The paper shows that it is possible to maintain high standards of quality control without significantly affecting production rates.

Originality/value

Current research does not focus on maintaining production rates whilst inspecting custom parts. The use of ROI inspection for moving custom parts is a relatively new concept.
Measurement assisted robotic assembly of fabricated aero‐engine components
Authors: Jayaweera Nirosh , Webb Phil , Johnson Craig
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the measurement‐assisted assembly of aero‐engine fabricated components and evaluate its capability.

Design/methodology/approach

The system described in this paper uses in‐process measurement sensors to determine the component's exact location prior to the assembly operation. The core of the system is a set of algorithms capable of best fitting measurement data to find optimal assembly of components.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that with a combination of non‐contact metrology systems and mathematical processing, standard industrial robot can be used to assemble fabricated components. Scanning parts after it has been picked up was very effective as it compensates for possible components deformation during previous manufacturing processes and robot handling errors.

Originality/value

The paper introduces techniques for compensating the deformation that occurs in aero‐engine fabricated components and potential component handling errors. The developed system reduces the reliance on part holding fixtures and instead uses a laser‐guided robot. This ensures that the system is highly flexible and re‐configurable.
Pipe assembly planning algorithm by imitating human imaginal thinking
Authors: Zhou Chen , Yin Yuehong
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a computationally efficient and generally applicable measure for a pipe routing problem which decides the pipe paths and affects the pipe assembly feasibility. By imitating human thinking in pipe assembly planning, human's experience and intuition are quantified and applied in the pipe routing algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

Human's imaginal thinking is simulated with procedures of knowledge representation, pattern recognition, and logical deduction; the algorithm transforms the physical obstacles and constraints into 3D pipe routing space and then into 2D planar projection, by using convex hull algorithm onto the projection, the shortest pipe route is found efficiently.

Findings

A novel pipe assembly planning algorithm by imitating human imaginal thinking is presented, which effectively solved the problem of conceiving the shortest pipe route in 3D space with obstacles and constraints.

Practical implications

The application of the algorithm in assembly planning of an aircraft engine pipe system is demonstrated. The algorithm can also be used in similar pipe planning problems such as industrial plant pipe planning and submarine pipe system design.

Originality/value

Human's imaginal thinking is introduced into pipe routing algorithm for the first time. By using graphics as the media to transfer the pipe routing information, human's experience and intuition in pipe assembly planning are quantified and computationally applicable.
The auto‐cooking system for Chinese traditional dishes
Authors: Fu Z. , Yan W.X. , Ma W.T. , Zhao Y.Z. , Liu X.Y.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a new auto‐cooking industrial system for the Chinese food industry.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the paper introduces a robotic system with the redundant control functions based on the embedded RISC fieldbus control system IP core. Second, the data acquisition of the advanced cooks' operation procedure is used to get the teaching knowledge in the different cooking actions for the typical Chinese dishes. Finally, according to the teaching‐playback method, the auto‐cooking procedure for the complex Chinese dishes is completed well.

Findings

It is found that the new auto‐cooking system can cook many Chinese traditional dishes with high quality.

Practical implications

The robot is applicable to cooking automatically for the Chinese food industry.

Originality/value

The auto‐cooking industrial system has been developed with the programming method for the cooking actions.
Gender, globalization and organization: exploring power, relations and intersections
Authors: Dawn Metcalfe Beverly , Rees Christopher J.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Current debates on neo‐liberal and universalistic globalization pay little attention to gender or to other marginalized groups, and fail to consider the complexity and diversity of the experiences of men and women in specific socio‐political contexts, especially those in the developing world. The paper challenges mainstream theories which present globalization and its associated forces as gender neutral. The main purpose of this paper is to advance theoretical debates on the gendered organizing dynamics of globalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on organization theory, gender and development studies literature, and feminist sociology, to advance critical understandings of contemporary debates of the intersecting qualities of globalization, transnational organizations and gender social divisions.

Findings

The paper provides a critical synthesis of the complexity and interconnections between gender, organization and globalization. The paper identifies international development agencies; transnational corporations; international nongovernmental organizations and government state machineries as key stakeholders in the global and national regulation of employment and diversity issues. The paper outlines the organizing praxis of these key stakeholders, and stresses the need for all actors to engage in human rights awareness and equality consciousness raising.

Originality/value

The paper provides an original gendered organization analysis of globalization which reveals the specificity of global‐local linkages mediated by national states, international organizations, women's NGOs and gendered government machineries.
Becoming an international man
Authors: Tienari Janne , Vaara Eero , Meriläinen Susan
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address gender and management in contemporary globalization by focusing on the ways in which male top managers in a multinational corporation (MNC) construct their identities in interviews with researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative analysis based on interviews with virtually all top managers in the Nordic financial services company Nordea (53 men and two women).

Findings

It is found that becoming international induces a particular masculine identity for the top managers. In becoming international, however, their national identification persists. The unstability of the MNC as a political constellation leaves room for questioning the transnational identity offered.

Originality/value

This paper's findings suggest that in the global world of business, national identity can also be interpreted as something positive and productive, contrary to how it has been previously treated in feminist and men's studies literature.
The construction of gender identities in public sector organisations in Latin America
Authors: Rodriguez Jenny K.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Literature on “gender and organisation” in developing countries is scarce. The purpose of this paper is to unveil the way in which gender construction is understood and operates within public organisational settings in the Dominican Republic.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 27 women and 13 men from three organisations in the public sector in the Dominican Republic. The research was developed using a feminist poststructuralist methodological framework and used discourse analysis.

Findings

Gender construction and dynamics in the Dominican public sector reproduce paternalistic assumptions and beliefs. Organisational culture operates as a gendered system where sexualised structures and processes perpetuate ideas about male superiority and female inferiority, which translate in expectations of men being dominant and women being submissive.

Research limitations/implications

The experience of a group of employees from three public institutions cannot generalise the whole of the public sector all around the country. More importantly, it cannot be assumed to represent all feminist voices from developing countries.

Practical implications

The implications of this research are significant both for gender sensitive employment public policy reform and human resource management practices in the public sector.

Originality/value

The research focused on how gender is articulated in organisational culture, situating this problematisation in the public sector in the Dominican Republic. The paper contributes to the limited knowledge of gender and organisation in the Hispanic Caribbean, particularly the Dominican Republic.
Gender, development, and sex work in Lesotho
Authors: Braun Yvonne A.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the intersections of gender, development and globalization through an investigation of the ways in which a large‐scale, internationally financed multi‐dam development project, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), impacts gender relations through its physical presence in the highlands of Lesotho, Southern Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

Field research including interviews with men and women impacted by the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) in Lesotho in 1997 and 2000‐2001.

Findings

The paper finds that, by positioning themselves as sex workers for foreign development workers, non‐elite women are able to access development monies indirectly. The devaluation of women's labor on farms and in the household excludes them as legitimate receivers of “development”, reproducing male ownership and patriarchal authority, and ultimately pushing some women into work that is precarious, low wage, risky, and often demeaning.

Research limitations/implications

This research highlights the complicated and contradictory gendered gains and losses in the development context and how they mirror larger globalization processes and their effects on gender inequality. Further research with sex workers is needed.

Originality/value

Feminist inquiries into globalization, particularly those focused on militarization and economic restructuring, have revealed the gendered effects of globalizing processes as they take place in particular locales (military bases, industries, corporations, factories). The ways in which the presence of sites of development creates particular gendered dynamics have been understudied. Incorporating analysis of the presence of large‐scale development projects in local areas offers opportunities to link the investigation of development in a larger context of globalization, and reveals a more nuanced reading of the gendered politics of development.
Equality and diversity rhetoric: one size fits all? Globalization and the Portuguese context
Authors: Barbosa Iris , Cabral‐Cardoso Carlos
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which Portuguese companies have incorporated equality‐ and diversity‐related issues into their management discourse, and examine the prevalent rhetoric on these matters.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive content analysis of the web sites of the 500 largest companies plus the 20 best companies to work for in Portugal, in 2005, according to the ranking of The Great Place to Work® Institute Portugal.

Findings

The analysis of the web site data shows that equality and diversity rhetoric mirrors, to a large extent, the dominant US discourse and ignores the necessary adaptation to the local context. However, there are significant differences in the adopted rhetoric according to the origin of the ownership control (native vs foreign) and the intended audience (local vs global). Native owned companies with web sites intended to a local audience tend to ignore diversity issues altogether.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to a single country's data, and to the discourse rather than actual practices. However, the paper adds to the debate on the globalization of management knowledge stressing the limitations of adopting the “one size fits all” management rhetoric as opposed to developing rhetoric more appropriate and that fits into the local context.

Originality/value

The paper provides an account of the equality and diversity rhetoric adopted by the most prominent organizations operating in Portugal, suggesting that such rhetoric is mainly for external consumption.
Islamic sisters
Authors: Pio Edwina
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of ethnic minority entrepreneurship in Sweden offered through the sacred‐secular lens of the Islamic Dawoodi Bohra community, with the purpose of exploring the relationship of spirituality to entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a case study, this paper spotlights the entrepreneurship of immigrant women from the Dawoodi Bohra Islamic community in Sweden. Utilizing the literature from spirituality, ethnography and ethnic minority entrepreneurship, this paper seeks to foreground the importance of a transcendent dimension in entrepreneurship which is woven into and sustains the day‐to‐day beliefs and practices of ethnic minority women entrepreneurs.

Findings

The women seem to be able to negotiate their spirituality within their role as ethnic minority women entrepreneurs, which gives meaning to their daily existence and increases theirizzat(honour) in their community.

Research limitations/implications

This is a specific case study and represents a particular Islamic community, hence cannot realistically reflect all Islamic women in entrepreneurship. Future research can uncover the role of migrant Islamic women from various communities and countries.

Practical implications

The paper presents the interweaving and leavening effect of spirituality and entrepreneurship for Islamic women entrepreneurs and is a valuable insight on how such women negotiate their lives.

Originality/value

The paper presents a close look at Islamic women from the Dawoodi Bohra community whose lived experience represents a negotiation between their spirituality, patriarchy, migration, ethnicity and minority.
Redefining the way we look at diversity: a review of recent diversity and inclusion findings in organizational research
Authors: Holmes Oscar
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the findings of studies presented at the 24th annual conference of the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) in relation to how diversity is studied, microaggressions, when diversity is perceived, and employment outcomes for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) job applicants.

Design/methodology/approach

A select group of presentations are summarized based on observation, notes, discussions, and reading of material.

Findings

Researchers are beginning to redefine how diversity is studied as well as focus more on within‐group variation that might uncover considerable interpretation differences based on study results. More subtle forms of racism are being explored in addition to examining experiences of sexual orientation minorities.

Originality/value

The diversity and inclusion presentations at the 2009 SIOP conference continue to evolve diversity theory and inform evidence‐based organizational practice. This report summarizes a variety of findings during this conference.
Implementing corporate social responsibility in the UK construction industry
Authors: Barthorpe Stephen
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a general overview of the origins, development and rise in importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and demonstrate how CSR has been incorporated and implemented in the UK construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper briefly introduces the concept and origins of CSR and then provides appropriate examples of how the UK construction industry implements it. A literature review provides the historical context and development of CSR and this is augmented with a “milestone of events” which summarises the notable events and identifies the influential people that have shaped the development of CSR throughout the world. The paper is structured on the following themes: introducing corporate social responsibility; incorporating and reporting corporate social responsibility; and implementing corporate social responsibility.

Findings

The findings of this paper reveal a surprising and welcome contrast to the generally held negative views expressed in recent seminal reports that castigate the UK construction industry for lacking innovation and the desire to embrace change. This paper demonstrates, through the use of case study examples, how the UK construction industry organisations add significant value to local and national communities by implementing CSR.

Research limitations/implications

Although an appropriate literature review has been able to provide the historical overview and development of CSR, the case study examples provided have been limited to ten major UK contracting organisations and will therefore not necessarily be representative of small or medium sized organisations.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this paper are potentially significant. Individuals or organisations should be able to apply the principles and examples provided and apply them to suit their own circumstances.

Originality/value

This paper has provided a useful historical overview of CSR and succinctly demonstrates the significant milestone events that have shaped the development of this increasingly important phenomenon. CSR has, over the past few years developed into a powerful agenda in the boardrooms of organisations throughout the developed world. Initial token philanthropic gestures have latterly expanded and developed into mainstream corporate strategy. CSR is now becoming embedded in business practice and is not just seen as an altruistic burden but as making sound business sense and for providing an opportunity to gain strategic competitive advantage.
Understanding property cycles in a residential market
Authors: Reed Richard , Wu Hao
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to review property cycle theory and the relevance of the larger body of knowledge about cycles with reference to the housing market. It also aims to highlight the lack of research into property cycles in the residential sector on a suburb or smaller region basis, as well as the potential for increased knowledge about cycles to assist to avoid housing stress.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper conducts a literature review of previous cycle research and encourages the use of cycle theory. It discusses the established body of knowledge about business cycles and the office market sector, as well as investigating levels of housing affordability and how detailed knowledge about property cycles can assist to decrease housing affordability in residential areas, which will eventually experience a downturn.

Findings

It is argued that an increased level of certainty about cycle behaviour in particular suburbs will give households a higher level of confidence when considering whether and when to enter the market. Property cycle research has the potential to assist low‐income homeowners to better understand the characteristics of cycles and associated risks in each residential.

Research limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper and has conducted a review of cycle research and housing affordability in certain countries. Some areas or countries may be affected to varying degrees by property cycles and levels of housing affordability.

Practical implications

In extended periods of high volatility it is argued that a better understanding of housing cycles will allow more homeowners to avoid negative equity and the stress associated with repossessions. Property cycles are unavoidable although there is typically relatively little information available in the open market about the timing and amplitude of cycles in individual areas.

Originality/value

This paper is unique as it highlights the potential for property cycles to be used to avoid housing stress in the residential market. Traditionally cycle research is used to increase returns and avoid downturns in the office and/or business sectors.
The perceived effectiveness of surveillance in reducing crime at shopping centers in Finland
Authors: Kajalo Sami , Lindblom Arto
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This study seeks to analyse managers' perceptions of the effectiveness of both informal and formal surveillance in reducing vandalism, disturbance, and shoplifting in their shopping centers in Finland.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study utilizes elements of crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) in its theoretical approach. The data are based on an internet survey in Finland conducted in February and March of 2009. The sampling frame of the present study consistes of the 58 shopping centers and especially those managers who are responsible for security and safety management investments at these centers. All together 32 managers completed the survey.

Findings

This study reveales that perceived effectiveness of both formal and informal surveillance in reducing all three types of crime is high. Security guard patrols are clearly perceived to be the most effective formal surveillance method. Also, activity of personnel and premises that are easily monitored, are perceived very effective in reducing incidence of crime at the shopping centers.

Research limitations/implications

Qualitative studies could reveal issues that would enable more thorough operationalization of the concepts linked the surveillance and security in shopping center context.

Practical implications

The paper sensitizes managers to think where informal and formal surveillance work best in shopping centers.

Originality/value

Very little empirical research has evaluated the effectiveness of surveillance at shopping centers. The present study fills this research gap.
Market orientation in the mental models of decision makers: two cross‐border value chains
Authors: Grunert Klaus G. , Trondsen Torbjørn , Gonzalo Campos Emilio , Young James A.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether predictions about different degrees of market orientation in two cross‐border value chains also appear in the mental models of decision makers at two levels of these value chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The laddering method elicits mental models of actors in two value chains: Norwegian salmon exported to Japan and Danish pork exported to Japan. The analysis of the mental models centers on potential overlap and linkages between actors in the value chain, including elements in the mental models that may relate to the actors' market orientation.

Findings

In both value chains, decision makers exhibit overlap in their views of what drives their business. The pork chain appears dominated by a focus on efficiency, technology, and quality control, though it also acknowledges communication as important. The salmon chain places more emphasis on new product development and good relations between chain partners.

Research limitations/implications

While confirming prior results regarding the role of competitive pressure, end‐user heterogeneity/dynamism, regulations, and trade associations, the results also generate new insights into the possible role of relational governance in promoting the market orientation of value chains.

Originality/value

This paper offers three novel ideas: using the concept of mental models as a possible mediator between factors that influence the degree of market orientation and market‐oriented activity; using a laddering method to elicit mental models; and considering concepts shared among actors in a value chain as possible indicators of the degree of market orientation.
New product development proficiency and multi‐country product rollout timeliness
Authors: Bong Lee Keon , Wong Veronica
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address a gap in the understanding of the indirect effects of marketing and technical factors on time efficiency in developing a new product and international new product launch.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a contingency perspective in examining the relationships between antecedents and on‐time completion (or timeliness) of new product development (NPD) and international new product rollout (INPR). A conceptual framework is tested based on data obtained on 232 NPD projects undertaken by Korean firms.

Findings

The results show that NPD proficiencies mediate to a greater or lesser extent the effects of key antecedents (e.g. cross‐functional linkages, project fit with available marketing resources, and effective coordination of headquarters‐subsidiary/agents' activities) on timeliness in NPD and INPR.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical research on the role of marketing and technical proficiencies in improving NPD timeliness and rollout timeliness in the context of international NPD affirms the importance of adopting a contingency perspective in examining the antecedents of NPD and multi‐market entry timeliness.

Practical implications

This paper lends insight into the role of overseas subsidiaries or agents in helping to build the technical proficiencies of emerging country companies.

Originality/value

This is the first review focusing on the mediating influences on time dimensions (e.g. timeliness) in multi‐country product launches.
On importer trust and commitment: a comparative study of two developing countries
Authors: Bianchi Constanza , Saleh Abu
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Relationship trust and commitment are two key dimensions of international exchanges. Both have been extensively investigated from an exporter (as opposed to importer) perspective in developed country (as opposed to developing country) contexts. To address these gaps, this paper aims to develop a model of antecedents and outcomes of importer trust and commitment in two developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper tests the proposed model using data from Chile and Bangladesh. Hypotheses are tested using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

SEM analysis reveals that most of the hypotheses are supported in both the Bangladeshi and Chilean context. The findings of this paper also suggest that the effects of importer transaction‐specific investments on importer commitment are distinct in the Bangladeshi context.

Practical implications

Practically, these results show that trust and commitment are essential for enhancing importer relationship performance in developing countries. Importer trust in a foreign supplier is effective when suppliers are competent and provide relatively superior facilities, as opposed to opportunistic proclivity. Importer commitment to a foreign supplier is stronger when importers perceive that the foreign supplier is not opportunistic, but is knowledgeable and experienced with the importer market, and they perceive that it is an advantage importing from that supplier. Cultural similarity between importers and foreign suppliers improves importer trust in both countries. However, importer commitment in Chile increases with importer transaction‐specific investment, but this is not found to be the case in Bangladesh.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the importer‐exporter exchange relationship literature by testing a model of antecedents and outcomes of importer trust and commitment. The tested model is one of few that considers developing country contexts and incorporates two novel antecedents of trust and commitment: importer knowledge and experience, and supplier resource competency.
Examining the role of beliefs and attitudes in online advertising
Authors: Wang Ying , Sun Shaojing
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate online advertising across different cultures such as Romania and the USA. In the meantime, this paper attempts to examine the relationships among beliefs about online advertising, attitudes toward online advertising (ATOA), and consumer responses to online advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveys are conducted among 577 internet users from both Romania and the USA structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationships among variables.

Findings

Belief factors (i.e. information seeking, entertainment, economy, credibility, and value corruption) are statistically significant predictors of ATOA; ATOA is a significant predictor of consumer responses to online advertising; as compared to Americans, Romanians tended to hold a more positive ATOA and are more likely to click advertisements, whereas Americans are more likely to buy online than do Romanians.

Research limitations/implications

Convenient sampling technique and the operationalization of culture are main limitations associated with the paper.

Practical implications

Findings may help businesses and organizations employ online advertising more effectively and efficiently in their global marketing endeavors.

Originality/value

Currently little is known about online advertising in developing countries, particularly eastern European countries such as Romania. The current paper extends research on ATOA to a cross‐cultural context.