bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time domain sensitivity analysis of electromagnetic quantities utilising FEM for the identification of material conductivity distributions
Authors: Gawrylczyk Konstanty M. , Kugler Mateusz
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to present effective methods for computing electromagnetic field sensitivity in the time domain versus conductivity perturbations in finite elements.

Design/methodology/approach

Two‐dimensional cases in linear, isotropic media are considered and two effective methods for sensitivity analysis of a magnetic vector potential in the time domain are described.

Findings

The paper finds that the convergence of numerical identification algorithm depends on exact measurement of magnetic flux density. For identification of real cracks the application of data filtering and TSVD regularization of Gauss‐Newton algorithm is necessary.

Practical implications

The resultant gradient information may be used for solving inverse problems such as the identification of material conductivity distributions.

Originality/value

The algorithms described are based on known methods from established circuit theory – incremental circuit and adjoint circuit, these have been expanded to apply in electromagnetic field theory.
Modelling of magnetic anisotropy in the finite element method
Authors: Gómez E. , Roger‐Folch J. , Molina A. , Fuentes J.A. , Gabaldón A. , Torres R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present an approach, able to deal with different models for anisotropy in the finite element method, and how it can be integrated in its formulation.

Design/methodology/approach

This approach is to apply this to the study of power transformers, in which grain‐oriented steel sheets are usually used. In this type of analysis, magnetic characteristics of the steel sheets such as non‐linearity and anisotropy, or even the hysteresis, must be taken into account.

Findings

The Newton‐Raphson method is generally used to solve the system of equations, but it is a CPU‐time‐consuming task, especially when finite element models and circuit equations are coupled and therefore, time is considered in the analysis.

Originality/value

An approach able to deal with different models for anisotropy in the finite element method is presented.
Three‐dimensional finite element modeling of inductive and capacitive effects in micro‐coils
Authors: Dular Patrick , Sabariego Ruth V. , Kuo‐Peng Patrick
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper seeks to develop dual 3D finite element (FE) formulations for modeling both inductive and capacitive effects in massive inductors, in particular micro‐coils. The paper aims to build circuit relations relating the voltages and the currents in such inductors to be used in circuit coupling.

Design/methodology/approach

A circuit relation involving a unique voltage and complementary inductive and capacitive currents is defined for each inductor. The inductive circuit relation is first classically obtained by a FE magnetodynamic model. Then, the capacitive relation is obtained through a FE electric model, using sources evaluated from the first model. The conformity is defined on one hand for the magnetic flux density and the electric field, and on the other hand for the magnetic field and the electric flux density. Mixed FE, i.e. nodal, edge and face elements, are used to satisfy each chosen conformity level for the unknown fields and to naturally define the involved global quantities, i.e. the voltages, currents and charges.

Findings

This contribution points out the interest of satisfying conformity properties for the coupled magnetic and electric problems. An accurate computation of these effects is obtained in the critical frequency range of their strong interaction. In addition, the complementarity of dual solutions gives the possibility to estimate the discretisation error.

Originality/value

The mathematical and discretisation tools for any wished conformity level are unified for naturally coupling magnetic and electric problems. The global quantities basis functions involved in the FE circuit relations benefit from a significant support reduction, which facilitates their evaluation and gives them direct physical interpretations.
Numerical modeling of 3D intelligent comb drive accelerometer structure
Authors: Wiak Sławomir , Smółka Krzysztof , Dems Maria , Komęza Krzysztof
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the numerical modelling of 3D structure of surface micromachined (MEMS) accelerometers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the methods of mechanical design and analysis of electrostatic accelerometers (comb drive structure) and uses computer simulation procedure leading to final structure design, then to be defined as a basic structure for stress analysis.

Findings

The strategy in computer modeling of accelerometer MEMS is satisfactory in order to simulate the electromechanical characteristics of different accelerometer structures (IMEMS).

Originality/value

A novel complex strategy in computer modeling of accelerometer MEMS, based on solid modeling is proposed.
Permanent magnet synchronous motor with exterior‐rotor
Authors: Štumberger Bojan , Štumberger Gorazd , Hadžiselimović Miralem , Zagradišnik Ivan , Hamler Anton , Trlep Mladen
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to present the comparison between the performances of the exterior‐rotor permanent magnet synchronous motors with distributed windings and the performances of the exterior‐rotor permanent magnet synchronous motors with concentrated windings.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element method is used for motors performance determination. The BLDC operation mode for the motors with different slot and pole number combination and concentrated windings was accounted for in the comparison.

Findings

In the BLDC operation mode motor structures with concentrated windings with similar slot and pole numbers exhibit at the same current density similar or even higher torque capability and lower electromagnetic torque ripple in comparison to the motor structure with distributed windings. Motor structures with 9‐slot/8‐pole, 9‐slot/10‐pole, 12‐slot/10‐pole slot and pole number combinations are the most appropriate for the BLDC operation.

Originality/value

The paper shows which motor structures with distributed or concentrated windings in the BLDC operation mode produce lower torque ripple and higher average torque per ampere.
The necessity of trans‐scientific frameworks for doing interdisciplinary research
Authors: Brier Søren
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this theoretical research paper in philosophy and theory of science is to argue for the necessity of developing transdisciplinary frameworks in order to be able to interact in an interdisciplinary fashion.

Design/methodology/approach

Reflects on interdisciplinarity and the prerequisites of doing scientific and scholarly research and develops a non‐reductionistic and transdisciplinary view on human knowing in the light of the growing development of interdisciplinary practices and sciences.

Findings

It is argued that there is at present an incompatibility between scientific and phenomenological approaches to cognition and communication. A broader framework is, therefore, needed to encompass both, if one wants to make coherent theories and models in this subject area. The work, therefore, focuses on the relation between information science and semiotics and creates a framework for the analysis of both meaning and truth.

Research limitations/implications

The framework is very abstract here in the description. It has to be developed in detail and its effect demonstrated in practical examples.

Practical implications

They have to be judged both on how well their descriptions fit better than others with what actually goes on in the sciences and humanities and on their usefulness to function as a common map coordinating interdisciplinary work.

Originality/value

A trans‐scientific framework, which is suggested as a basis for the sciences and humanities to understand themselves in relation to other kinds of knowledge such as philosophy, art, religion, political ideology, etc. New also are the visual structural models.
Corporate social responsibility from the viewpoint of systems thinking
Authors: Knez‐Riedl Jozica , Mulej Matjaz , Dyck Robert G.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an essential topic of both life and sociocybernetics. It requires businesspersons and other decision makers to be broad and hence to apply inter‐disciplinarity incorporating many, mutually partly different and therefore interdependent, viewpoints for requisite holism. To do so, they should use systems thinking. But the modern diversity of systems theories, including cybernetics, opens the issue: which systems theory and/or cybernetic should one use? Aims to discuss the dialectical systems theory (DST), its definition of holism and its definition of the seven principal groups of notions making systems thinking possible, when applied in a synergy. This may lead to a requisite holism, and hence to efficiency and effectiveness of the work on and of the CSR; it has often been done so in the 30 years of DST.

Design/methodology/approach

Desk research and indirect field research were used. The concept of CSR is a rather soft topic. It demands a holistic treatment and hence a plural theoretical foundation following recent trends in economics (business and environmental), management as well as systems thinking. The problem was investigated empirically from the systems‐oriented perspective supported by DST, because it tackles human personality and impacts over it and by it, rather than offers tools for people to use for whatever purposes.

Findings

The CSR concept belongs in sociocyberbetics linking cybernetics, systems theory and social aspects of the reality. The definition of CSR requires humans to think, decide, and act on a very broad basis rather than to reduce their horizons to the narrow habit of businesses to find profit only essential. CSR links the hard‐systemic and soft‐systemic versions of modern systems theories. It could be seen as an attribute of human personality and as a process between humans and organisations.

Research limitations/implications

As CSR has many dimensions (economic, environmental and social ones, at least), the research focused on the requisitely holistic performance of an organisation being aware of diversified needs of multi‐stakeholders (including its own employees, as well).

Practical implications

The research findings and conclusions can support endeavors to implement the CSR concept in practice: in organisations, among different stakeholders and broader public audience (including governmental institutions and communities).

Originality/value

The paper provides the theoretical foundation to raise and improve socially responsible activities by supporting a maturing management philosophy approaching the viable, balanced organisation.
Social knowledge for a world in transition
Authors: Lee Richard E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide an overview of the historical development of non‐reductive currents in science that underpinned the sociocybernetic movement and from that perspective assess the importance of the movement for social science.

Design/methodology/approach

Examines the principles of general system theory, cybernetics, and sociocybernetics, in a relevant selection of the founding literatures as an outgrowth of the long‐term development of the structures of knowledge in the modern world and as related to contemporary geopolitics and the world‐economy.

Findings

Indicates how sociocybernetics, as a holistic alternative, may be a part of the solution to the crisis of analytic approaches in applications targeting an understanding and interpretation of human reality.

Originality/value

Suggests how scholars may confront today's world as active agents without losing their status as producers of authoritative knowledge.
Information systems for e‐business continuance: a systems approach
Authors: Bajgoric Nijaz
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In today's e‐business, system downtime is an unacceptable option since each hour, even minute of downtime may generate negative financial effects. In order to stay competitive, e‐business must be continuous from a data availability perspective and agile with regard to data access. Therefore, there is a need for an information system which can support such a kind of business which will have high availability ratios. This study seeks to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

A systems approach has been used. Methodological framework is based on a MS/OR‐based definition of a system given by C.W. Churchman.

Findings

The paper presents a framework for the development of an e‐business‐oriented information system from business continuance perspective. It identifies high system availability and agile data access as two critical attributes in designing information systems for e‐business. In addition, it identifies two sets of information technologies (business continuity and business agility drivers) that are crucial in developing such information systems.

Practical implications

The presented framework can be used while selecting an appropriate operating platform in order to achieve higher levels of continuous computing.

Originality/value

Systems approach as defined by C.W. Churchman has been applied in the field of information systems for e‐business continuance.
Study of the connexity of the set of affine controllable systems
Authors: Kadem Abdelouahab
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper sets out to review a study of the set of affine controllable systems connexity denoted by Ca.

Design/methodology/approach

With each affine system a homogeneous system is associated. Jurdjevic and Sallet proved that, if a homogeneous system is controllable in R2−{0} and, if the affine system has not a fixed point, then the affine system is controllable in R2.

Findings

It is shown that these systems are denoted by S, and are dense in Ca.

Research limitations/implications

Allows one to tackle the problem by using the connexity of a dense set in S.

Originality/value

Succeeds in completing a study of the set of affine controllable systems connexity denoted by Ca.
A connection between derivates and processes
Authors: Lloret‐Climent Miguel
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to describe to the dependence and independence functions associated with the system and the environment system, as also the interdependence functions between the two systems.

Design/methodology/approach

These functions, like the connections between pairs of entities in the systems, are formulated using the derivative concept. The system will thus be analysed in function of processes between mathematically formulated variables.

Findings

For each entity in the system or in the environment system it will be possible to determine networks of dependence and interdependence, which will be represented by their associated functions.

Originality/value

The functions described in this paper aim to decipher the processes that occur in systems. The characterisation of these functions via derivates implies an acknowledgement of the processes in the system, given that by simply observing the value of the derivatives obtained, one can uncover the network of interdependences between system entities.
Two mathematical notes – new homogenised Simpson's rules and a riffle shuffle conjecture
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Seeks to derive a class of “homogeneous” rules for numerical integration from earlier results and empirical findings to treat the apparently magical reordering of a pack of cards after successive shuffles, previously discussed by Zeeberg, from a new angle and to form a mathematical conjecture.

Design/methodology/approach

The studies were made using computer programs for which the language JavaScript proved adequate.

Findings

The rules for numerical integration are more precise than earlier versions. The conjecture associated with card shuffling appears to be novel.

Practical implications

Improved methods of numerical integration have practical value in many areas. The conjecture is in the field of number theory, with no obvious immediate applications.

Originality/value

The findings and methods are original. The demonstration of a plausible mathematical conjecture may provoke further studies aimed at its proof as a theorem, or its refutation.
Emergence decision using hybrid rough sets/cellular automata
Authors: Hassan Yasser , Tazaki Eiichiro
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim is identifying and analyzing some well‐defined types of emergence where the paper uses ideas from machine learning and artificial intelligence to provide the model of cellular automata based on rough set theory and response in simulated cars.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes, as practical part, a road traffic system based on two‐dimensional cellular automata combined with rough set theory to model the flow and jamming that is suitable to an urban environment.

Findings

The automaton mimics realistic traffic rules that apply in everyday experience.

Research limitations/implications

The modeled development process in this paper involves simulated processes of evolution, learning and self‐organization.

Practical implications

Recently, the examination and modeling of vehicular traffic has become an important subject of research.

Originality/value

The main value of the model is that it provides an illustration of how simple learning processes may lead to the formation of the state machine behavior, which can give an emergent to the model.
EvoPOL: a framework for optimising social regulation policies
Authors: Abraham Ajith , Petrovic‐Lazarevic Sonja , Coghill Ken
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a novel computational framework called EvoPOL (EVOlving POLicies) to support governmental policy analysis in restricting recruitment of smokers. EvoPOL is a fuzzy inference‐based decision support system that uses an evolutionary algorithm (EA) to optimize the if‐then rules and its parameters. The performance of the proposed method is compared with a fuzzy inference method adapted using neural network learning technique (neuro‐fuzzy).

Design/methodology/approach

EA is a population‐based adaptive method, which may be used to solve optimization problems, based on the genetic processes of biological organisms. The Takagi‐Sugeno fuzzy decision support system was developed based on three sub‐systems: fuzzification, fuzzy knowledge base (if‐then rules) and defuzzification. The fine‐tuning of the fuzzy rule base and membership function parameters is achieved by using an EA.

Findings

The proposed EvoPOL technique is simple and efficient when compared to the neuro‐fuzzy approach. However, EvoPOL attracts extra computational cost due to the population‐based hierarchical search process. When compared to neuro‐fuzzy model the error values on the test sets have improved considerably. Hence, when policy makers require more accuracy EvoPOL seems to be a good solution.

Originality/value

When policy makers require more accuracy EvoPOL seems to be a good solution. For complicated decision support systems involving more input variables, EvoPOL would be an excellent candidate for framing if‐then rules with precise decision scores that could help the government representatives as to what extent to concentrate on available social regulation measures in restricting the recruitment of smokers.
Regular grammars of L(MT): a language for ecological systems modelling (I) – part I
Authors: Usó‐Domènech J.L. , Vives‐Maciá F. , Mateu J.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

All models have in common that they encode experience and always involve signs, signals, syntax, semantics and an ability to decode and derive meaning from what is encoded. Therefore, an ecological model can be considered a text T, written in a formal (mathematical) language defined by the authors as L(MT).

Design/methodology/approach

The language chosen is a regular language generated by regular grammars which in turn are generated by finite automaton.

Findings

A text results from a union of some finite automata defining a textual grammar. Recognoscitive and generative grammars of words, defining the basis of the L(MT) language are developed.

Practical implications

A mathematical modelling of ecological systems is developed in parts I and II of this research project.

Originality/value

A language for ecological systems modelling has been defined and its implementation discussed.
A virtual electronic trading system for business‐to‐business e‐commerce
Authors: Fong A.C.M. , Hui S.C.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Until recently, only large companies could afford to develop and maintain computer systems to automate their trading processes. Thesead hocsolutions are expensive and preclude widespread applications because they often address specific issues. This paper addresses some of these issues by proposing a business‐to‐business (b2b) electronic trading framework known as virtual electronic trading (VET).

Design/methodology/approach

With personal computers and the internet, it is now possible to realize a generic electronic infrastructure for virtual trading. A modular approach has been adopted in the development of VET to ensure a high degree of flexibility, scalability, maintainability and upgradeability. Overall, the design goal is to make sure that the system performs effectively and reliably.

Findings

A survey of existing b2b electronic trading systems has been conducted. Key attributes of these systems and areas of improvements are highlighted. These form the basis of VET.

Research limitations/implications

The VET framework forms the basis for further research. Two examples are highlighted, namely: application of intelligent agents to perform the of market‐maker task; and development into a mobile commerce system when mobile technology and infrastructure can support such services.

Practical implications

An important contribution of our work is that the VET system provides a generic framework for a variety of business models and practices. Owing to the modular design, it can be easily customized to suit different (specialized) trading communities.

Originality/value

It is a systematic approach in developing a b2b e‐trading system that addresses users' needs by applying the most up‐to‐date computing and internetworking technology.
Ecology, environmentalism and system theory
Authors: Certomà Chiara
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To consider the links between ecology, environmentalism and system theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept of system and its philosophical implications are examined in relation to ecology and environmentalism.

Findings

That in human systems complexity is organised through forms of hierarchy, coevolution connected to the environment, emergency and information phenomena which transform disorder into order. Concludes that these traits have a deep impact on the system man – environment and offer opportunities for scientific research and social mobilisation to think and act in a broader context.

Originality/value

Political near scientific thought as presented encourage a rethinking or concepts such as resposibility limit, diversity when the future of the earth is deemed to be threatened.
A study of the effects of SSL on the adhesion property of phenolic resin in production of agro‐based composite
Authors: El‐Saied H. , Basta A.H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate the role of spent sulphite liquor (SSL) retained on neutral sulphite bagasse pulp in the binding action of phenolic resin, for the purpose of enhancing its performance to produce high quality agro‐based composite.

Design/methodology/approach

Pulps used in this work as agro‐based fibres were prepared from Asplund defibrator and neutral sulphite pulping processes. The performance of the resol resin in presence of SSL, were evaluated in terms of the effects of SSL constituents and using novolac as phenolic resin, in comparison with that prepared from pulps in absence of SSL and conventionally prepared resol – Asplund bagasse composites. Preparation of pulp free from sulphonyl groups and pre‐out‐precipitating the resol or lignosulphonic acid (LSA) on the strength and water resistance properties of the composite produced was also examined. The degraded hemicellulose and LSA in SSL were polynomial correlated with the changes in composites properties.

Findings

All neutral sulphite pulps investigated, in presence of SSL, were found to enhance the strength quality of agro‐based composite compared to commercially available resol‐agro‐based composite. The retained SSL on NS‐raw bagasse pulp could replace the Asplund bagasse pulp together with resol resin in production of agro‐composite. As well as, using neutral sulphite – Asplund bagasse pulp reduced the percent of added resol to half, to produce commercial resol agro‐based composite. The performance of the composite produced from novolac resin‐SSL‐neutral sulphite pulp and resol‐LSA‐neutral sulphite pulp exceeded 1.5 to 1.9 times the strength of commercially available composite.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the SSL retained on pulp success in improving the strength property of the resol resin‐agro‐composites, but it has an undesirable effect on water resistance of the product. This problem was resolved by avoiding the undesirable effect of sulphonyl groups on pulp fibres as well as the degraded hemicellulose in SSL.

Practical implications

The approach developed provided a simple and practical solution to enhancing the performance of phenolic resin as well as agro‐fibres and SSL wastes in the production of high performance lignocellulosic composite.

Originality/value

The resol, together with SSL constituents retained on neutral sulphite pulp, are economic bonding agents for agro‐fibres and could be used in wood mills for production of medium density fibre‐board.
Environmental values and lifestyles as determining factors of ecological consumer behaviour: an empirical analysis
Authors: Fraj Elena , Martinez Eva
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim of this study is to identify what values and lifestyles best explain environmentally friendly behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adapts the Values and Lifestyle scale and the Environmental and Attitude and Knowledge scale to the Spanish context in order to describe the ecological consumer profile. The data were obtained from a questionnaire handed out to a random sample of 573 individuals. With the information obtained, and after the scales validation process, a structural equation analysis has been conducted.

Findings

Findings of the study highlight that environmental patterns and self‐fulfilment values are those that best characterise the ecological market segment. This group of consumers is characterised by their self‐fulfilment feeling. They are people who always try to improve themselves and take actions which pose a new challenge for them. They are also characterised by having an ecological lifestyle, that is, environment consciousness, selecting and recycling products and taking part in events to protect the environment. This kind of consumer would be interested in firms that are committed to the environment and launch new products, showing them as a new and exciting experience.

Originality/value

The results of this study might interest consumer behaviour researchers and those firms that care about the ecological consumers. Further research is needed including new psychographic variables.
Modeling store loyalty: perceived value in market orientation practice
Authors: Chen Shu‐Ching , Quester Pascale G.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study developed a model of customer store loyalty for retail service based on a value‐based market orientation practice, staff performance and customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive qualitative study was undertaken to develop measurements, derived from both perspectives of firms and consumers. The model was then tested empirically in a retail setting in Taiwan, using a dyadic data collection approach. For each service provider from a random sample of hairdressing salons in Taiwan included in our survey, a matched set of customers provided information concerning their expectation and evaluation of service.

Findings

Our findings provide an insight into the effect of perceived customer value in market orientation practice as well as its impact on customer retention. The model indicates that marketing practitioners should manage customer satisfaction and perceptions of value in their implementation of market orientation as they are directly related to customer store loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This study involved only one service industry (hairdressing salons) in one country (Taiwan). However the scales and methodology described here could and should be replicated in other settings.

Practical implications

By using our scale and results, service providers may be able to enhance their customers' perception of value and increase their degree of store loyalty.

Originality/value

Despite the importance of customer value for organizations seeking to become market oriented, customer value measures are not included in market orientation scales. This study shows how including customer value into market orientation measurements can assist in enhancing business performance via customer retention.
Honest talk about finance in director recruitment
Authors: Holt Glen E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview on how important funding is to what can be accomplished by a library director, and how it impacts library management decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using eight financial areas common to all libraries, the importance of adequate funding is presented in the paper and the consequences of different funding levels are examined.

Findings

The paper finds that no matter how innovative or progressive a library director may want to be, libraries that are not on solid financial ground will not remain relevant in the future. A library director needs to know the level of funding, where the funds are coming from, and level of continued support they can expect if they are to manage effectively.

Originality/value

Great leadership cannot solve an institution's numerous problems when lack of operating revenue is the heart of the issue. Because of this, discussions about the financial health of a library are important when considering to become a library's new director.
How does it look?
Authors: Maxymuk John
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to remind readers that library online catalogs should be simple, easy to use, and graphically appealing if they are to be successful.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper lists and examines several issues relevant to web page design and online user behavior.

Findings

The paper finds that many online catalogs are still not easy to use, even for librarians. Layout and design can still be confusing and frustrating, even to those with experience in using online catalogs regularly.

Originality/value

Web site design is impossible to ignore, and can be the difference between a successful online catalog and one that is not. Librarians need to remember that users familiar to online searching expect their sessions to be simple, quick, and relevant. Bells and whistles that clutter up the screen and obscure its use should be avoided.
Follow the leader
Authors: Shinners Kathleen D.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how a university and public school partnership was structured regarding the partners' contribution and leadership roles within the partnership.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected over a four‐year period that involved faculty and graduate students (K‐12 fellows), with students and teachers in selected public schools in Rhode Island and a regional university. The data were analyzed by examining mutuality characteristics, the level of partner involvement, as well as the influence of leadership on the project's success.

Findings

Over time, it was clear that leadership emerged at the partner level, where skills and strategies were developed to support partnership goals.

Originality/value

This research presents the variance experienced by partners as to their level of involvement and the importance leadership played as a means of guiding the partnership through several stages of maturation, resulting in an enduring relationship among partners. Leadership and partnerships at school and university level can learn from the lessons found in this study and apply them to their own environments.
Institutional focus and non‐resident student enrollment
Authors: Baryla Edward A. , Dotterweich Douglas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper uses institutional characteristics and regional economic data to determine if institutional mission may help drive non‐resident undergraduate enrollment.

Design/methodology/approach

A two‐stage least squares regression models is employed on 180 Doctoral, 333 Comprehensive, and 501 Baccalaureate higher education institutions to determine if there is a correlation between non‐resident enrollment and tuition for each of the separate mission‐based classifications.

Findings

The study finds a significant positive correlation between non‐resident undergraduate enrollment and tuition for both doctoral and baccalaureate institutions. There is no significant correlation between non‐resident enrollment and tuition for comprehensive institutions.

Research limitations/implications

Suggests that non‐resident undergraduate students are attracted to both larger flagship institutions, as well as to smaller institutions that are almost entirely focused on undergraduate instruction. Comprehensive institutions do not generally experience this phenomenon; however, the more selective schools within this category are also attractive to non‐resident students.

Originality/value

Attracting non‐resident students is an important issue for a higher education institution. This research article presents tantalizing evidence that institutional mission may be a factor in non‐resident enrollment. This may allow a higher education institution to garner excess returns when pricing non‐resident tuition, and in addition it may allow for some leeway in pricing resident tuition.
Towards the ethical or the unethical side?
Authors: Karassavidou Eleonora , Glaveli Niki
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the ethical orientations of undergraduate business students in Greece by exploring the relations among students' internalized code of ethics, anomia and students' judgment related to ethical problem situations within classroom as well as business context.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework was developed and a pilot empirical research was conducted based on a questionnaire addressed to a sample of 123 business school undergraduate students. Hypotheses were stated and tested.

Findings

The paper finds that internalised code of ethics (ICE) and anomia constructs proved to be reliable and captured the examined students' profile in terms of both their ethical orientations and their world view. Greek future business people's ethical judgement tends to incline towards the ethical side. The ICE appears to influence students' ethical judgment while anomia has no impact. Further, academic dishonesty is positively related to students' attitudes towards unethical managers' behaviors in the business context.

Research limitations/implications

The nature of the research is explanatory, addressed to students of one semester and thus results cannot be generalized on a broader context. Also the construct developed by the authors need to be further tested to increase its validity.

Practical implications

Business schools need to empower students' internalized code of ethics towards the development of more socially responsible future managers and leaders.

Originality/value

The developed construct of the internalized code of ethics and its revealing key role on Greek business students' ethical judgment is considered by the authors as the main contribution of this study.
Practice enhancement: optimising teaching performance in schools
Authors: Perillo Suzanne
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that in comparison to performance appraisal, “practice enhancement” is offered as a conceptual tool that can be used to develop strategies for reflecting on, communicating changes in and planning for excellence in teaching practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual notion of practice enhancement is underpinned by assumptions from the discipline of positive psychology and supported by the need for a performance management process targeting teaching practice that considers the contributions made by social learning theory and organisational learning theory. Indicative of a postmodern persuasion, a data “story” from case study research is used to support the applicability of practice enhancement in schools. Actor‐network theory is used to analyse movements in local professional learning preferences and practices in an independent boys' school in Australia.

Findings

The paper finds that applicability and conceptual accuracy of managerial notions such as performance appraisal should be critically considered by educational researchers, policymakers, school leaders and teaching practitioners when developing processes for managing the performance of teachers in schools.

Research implications/limitations

Empirical studies evaluating the effectiveness of performance management processes underpinned by the notion of performance enhancement (in schools and other workplace settings) are required.

Practical implications

A conceptual tool for guiding the development of processes and tools for managing teaching excellence is provided.

Originality/value

This paper draws on cross‐disciplinary knowledge and the work of teaching practitioners to provide recommendations for cultivating conditions that enable teaching excellence.
The distinctiveness of the Welsh partnership agenda
Authors: Entwistle Tom
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to consider whether there is significant divergence between the Welsh and English approaches to partnership working.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis reported stems from a research project, commissioned by the Welsh Assembly Government in 2002, which examined the extent and effectiveness of three‐sector partnerships. The findings from the Welsh study are contrasted with the findings of a number of studies of the modernisation agenda in English local government.

Findings

First there are increasing numbers of partnership programmes which are born and bred in Wales. Second, Wales has unitary local government and so it does not have the complexity of two‐tier structures which frustrate partnership working in the English shires. Third the Welsh polity is a small one with short and close vertical linkages between national and local actors. Fourth, the engagement with the private and voluntary sectors as political stakeholders is a higher political priority in Wales than the involvement of these sectors in service delivery. These differences mean that partnership has a rather different emphasis in Wales.

Research limitations/implications

Although focused on Wales, the article raises greater questions about the purposes of partnership working. More work is needed, however, on the measurement of partnership performance.

Practical implications

The paper raises questions both about the rationale of partnership governance and about the institutional factors likely to influence success.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the new research area of comparative patterns of UK governance.
Partnership meets politics: managing within the maze
Authors: Friend John
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present a perspective on partnership grounded in empirical management research. This paper is based on a keynote presentation by the author at a conference on partnership in Durham in 2004.

Design/methodology/approach

It reflects on the particular challenges of realising partnership ideals in the field of public policy with its rich textures of accountability, reflecting a career perspective of management research and the facilitation of planning workshops in inter‐organisational policy domains.

Findings

The challenge of managing decisions within an often obscure maze of inter‐agency relations is interpreted as one of developmental decision making, within which personal capacities for responsible scheming play a crucial role.

Research limitations/implications

It is argued that this view offers more appropriate guidance to partnership practice than a more conventional system‐centred perspective; and that this has important implications for future research and education in public management.

Practical implications

To learn from one another's experiences, it is suggested that public managers should cultivate capacities to map graphically the shifting patterns of structural relations among issues and among organisational roles. It is argued that the firmer grasp of new communication technologies exhibited by emergent generations offers new promise in this direction, bridging the traditional educational divide between the arts and the sciences.

Originality/value

The paper offers fresh perspectives on partnership that are intended to challenge the thinking of practitioners and consultants as well as researchers.
Public management reform in Malaysia
Authors: Alam Siddiquee Noore
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The present paper seeks to examine the recent changes in public management in Malaysia in relation to new public management and assess their impacts on administrative performance and service delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

The scope of the paper is limited to the period of 1981 till the present date. The paper is mainly based on secondary sources of information, and it uses a combination of descriptive and analytical methods.

Findings

The paper shows that although reforms are steps in the right direction, their impacts so far have been modest. Despite reforms and a few improvements they have made in service provisions, the public bureaucracy in Malaysia continues to suffer from inefficiency, corruption and a host of other problems.

Originality/value

The paper shows the gap between rhetoric and reality of public management reforms in Malaysia. It is expected to be of great value to all those interested in public management – be they in academia or in policy circles.
Strategic responses to a high‐turbulent environment
Authors: Cueille Sandrine
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to characterize the French public hospitals (FPHs) according to their strategic behaviour. Until recently, FPHs used to ignore strategic issues, for their mission was clearly defined by regulating authorities and their activities were quasi‐automatically funded by the latter. This situation fundamentally changed as the environment of all “health care providers” became more demanding: FPHs have now to engage in a strategic process. The paper seeks to focus on the content of FPHs' strategies, and compare our results with standard findings of the strategic management literature, notably the strategic behaviour typologies established by Miles and Snow and Zaleznik and Kets de Vries.

Design/methodology/approach

A three‐stage empirical approach is conducted, mixing qualitative and quantitative methods. The measurement stage, based on a questionnaire survey realized with the support of a professional union, gathered the answers of 276 FPHs' decision‐makers, representing 51 per cent of the target population. This stage allows the formation of classes among these respondents, according to the environmental, organisational, and strategic features they describe.

Findings

The results are globally consistent with Miles and Snow's and Zaleznik and Kets de Vries' typologies. This is noteworthy since they were obtained in a different context and with different methodological approaches.

Research limitations/implications

This article tackles the issue of the universality of the strategic process.

Practical implications

Finally, implications for policy makers and hospitals' managers are drawn from the study.

Originality/value

What mostly differentiates the paper' results from the standard typologies is that FPHs can be separated according to the alliances criterion.
Public private partnerships in China
Authors: Adams John , Young Alistair , Zhihong Wu
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Public private partnership (PPP), which has been operating in China for over 20 years. In addition, an increased focus on value for money in the public sector has led to a need to improve the efficiency of the management, delivery and effectiveness of public services, especially at the local level. This paper aims to examines the PPP system and the problems yet to be overcome at a time when China is seeking to widen the use of PPP in sectors as yet not open to it.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the current PPP system in China and identifies the constraints facing it in the context of several models of bureaucracy arguing that these are as valid in China as they have been in the West.

Findings

The paper argues that there are five key constraints present in the Chinese PPP system and that these are fundamentally associated with risks of various types.

Practical implications

Extending PPP in China will require significant reform of public sector administration, closer supervision, transparent regulatory systems and easier access to capital for local private sector firms.

Originality/value

This paper should be of interest to both academics and practitioners in the field of PPP in terms of theoretical debate, key issues and the specific prospects for PPP in China.
“Bureaucracy, meet catastrophe”
Authors: Takeda Margaret B. , Helms Marilyn M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

An analysis of the way the bureaucratic management system responded to the Tsunami disaster of December 26, 2004 was repeated in handling of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in the USA at the end of 2005. This research note aims to follow up on the original paper “Bureaucracy meet catastrophe: analysis of the Tsunami disaster relief efforts and their implications for global emergency governance”, to be published in early 2006. It again highlights the severe shortcomings of the bureaucratic model as a paradigm for responding to situations in which the magnitude of the system's task is overwhelmingly complex and the timing process is bounded by urgency.

Design/methodology/approach

Evidence of the findings for this research is driven by primary references, namely news reports and web site information provided in the aftermath of the fall 2005 hurricane.

Findings

Like in the Tsunami disaster, the reports from Hurricane Katrina highlight the key problems of bureaucratic management including slow decision making, inability to absorb and process outside information, and escalation of commitment to failed courses of action.

Research limitations/implications

Suggestions for future research are provided.

Practical implications

It is this very requirement (absorbing and processing outside information and escalation of commitment to failed initial courses of action) which may undermine all relief efforts when such a high magnitude event occurs.

Originality/value

The tragic irony of this analysis is that most emergency relief organizations of the proper size and complexity to effectively deal with “shocking” events must work within the bureaucratic systems created by large federal relief organizations (such as FEMA) as the “price” for staying in operation.