bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tourism services quality (TourServQual) in Egypt
Authors: Eraqi Mohammed I.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This research paper aims is to evaluate the customer's views related to tourism quality in Egypt. It attempts to measure the extent to which tourism business environment is creative and innovative as necessary conditions for internal customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives of this research have been achieved through reviewing a number of literatures in the fields of services quality management and tourism quality measurements. The paper's outcomes have been obtained through two surveys, one to measure the satisfaction of the internal customer (employees) and the second to measure the external customer satisfaction (tourists).

Findings

The main conclusions of this research paper are: quality can be considered as a philosophy for guiding tourism organization/destination when taking decisions related to tourism services; tourism business environment in Egypt does not support the internal customer satisfaction because the absence of a suitable system for encouraging people to be creative and innovative; and in the area of the external customer satisfaction there is still a need for things to be done such as the environmental conditions improvements, internal transport quality enhancement, increasing people awareness, and improving the level of safety and security conditions.

Research limitations/implications

There is a number of limitations which faced this paper research they are: the sample size is small, compared with the size of total population, that was reflected on the level of reliability of the research results; and the limited time allowed to the respondents was reflected on the validity of the research outcomes, because they interviewed at the last time of their journey by the time they are ready for departure.

Practical implications

A useful source of information about total quality management (TQM) and how practitioners can measure it. It provides wide guidelines for improving the quality of tourism services in total manner in Egypt.

Originality/value

This paper provides useful information that are needed for tourism services quality improvement. It offers a practical help to tourism planners and marketers in Egypt to understand the concept of TQM and how they can improve their services continually.
A worldwide analysis of ISO 9000 standard diffusion
Authors: Franceschini F. , Galetto M. , Cecconi P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a cross‐section of International Standardization Organization (ISO) 9000 quality certification diffusion over time and its impact on industrial systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The starting point of the analysis is “The ISO survey of ISO 9000 and ISO 14001 certificates” document. Available data concur to trace a synthesis of what has happened and what is in process all over the world. Five main aspects are discussed: the correspondence between ISO 9000 standards and total quality management strategy; the effects of ISO 9000 certification on business performance; the ISO 9000 certificates diffusion in the world; the comparison between economical and entrepreneurial structure of different countries and certificates diffusion; the proposal of a prediction model for the diffusion of ISO 9000 certificates.

Findings

The evolution curve of the number of certificates over time in each country presents a “saturation effect.” This behavior has been analyzed by a diffusion forecasting model. The analysis of regional share certificates evolution evidences a sensible increase of Far East countries. The analysis of ISO 9000 certificates' share by industrial sector highlights a growth for the most sectors; only a few of them show a negative trend in last two years. A relationship between ISO 9000 certificates and socio‐economic indicators of a country (human development index, gross national product) has been individuated.

Practical implications

The stunning growth of ISO 9000 certifications all over the world confirms a strong polarization of enterprises' interest in this practice. Looking at the empirical data, some questions come out about the future. Will the certification market go on? Will certified enterprises continue to be interested to the certification process?

Originality/value

This paper analyzes the worldwide evolution of ISO 9000 certification and suggests a new prediction model for the diffusion of ISO 9000 certificates.
Next generation mobile telecommunications networks: challenges to the Nordic ICT industries
Authors: Palmberg Christopher , Bohlin Eric
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the papers in the special issue on “Next generation mobile telecommunications networks challenges to the Nordic ICT industries”.

Design/methodology/approach

This introductory paper summarises the key points of each paper.

Findings

The competitive environment of the Nordic ICT industries has changed and is far more complex now compared to the previous single‐standard environment of 2G. The avenues for influencing competition between basic technology platforms and standards are much narrower and involve interaction with a much greater number of stakeholders and technologies on a global level.

Originality/value

The six papers of this Special Issue highlight interesting viewpoints both on the possible future evolution of the mobile telecommunications industry in general, as well as on the past development and present challenges that the Nordic countries face.
3G Standards: the battle between WCDMA and CDMA2000
Authors: Saugstrup Dan , Henten Anders
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to analyze which standard/technology will win the 3G mobile markets. In addition, two sub topics are examined. First, which kind of victory will it be – will one technological solution be all‐dominating or is co‐existence more likely? Second, which are the most decisive factors in the battle between the different standards – which roles do respectively technology path‐dependence, network effects and strategic concerns play?

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken in the paper is to examine the different kinds of stakeholders – in this field, first and foremost, equipment manufacturers, network operators, policy makers/administrators and end users; to analyze how such stakeholders are intervening in the different relevant steps – technology development, technology deployment and technology take‐up – and to analyze these issues from different angles – technology, markets and economy, policy and regulation, and other social aspects.

Findings

The paper concludes that WCDMA will dominate the markets, but that there will be a co‐existence of different solutions – also inside individual countries where more than one solution is implemented.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the understanding that a vast array of different factors in a complex dynamic environment goes into the determination of the outcome of such standardization games. However, the battle between 3G standards has already reached a level, where relatively certain predictions can be made. And, the paper contributes with a methodologically based discussion concerning the outcome of the battle between 3G standards.
Innovation system dynamics in the Swedish telecom sector
Authors: Lindmark Sven , Andersson Erik J. , Bohlin Erik , Johansson Mattias
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyse the evolution of the Swedish telecommunications sector (1970‐2003), with a focus on barriers and drivers of innovative activity.

Design/methodology/approach

Developing a functional approach to innovation systems analysis, where six basic interdependent functions need to be served for a new technology to be developed and diffused and for a supporting industry to evolve. The sector is divided into four major sub‐sectors: traditional fixed telecom; mobile telephony; fixed data communications (including internet); and mobile data communications (including mobile internet).

Findings

Relate to two questions: first, how did it happen that Sweden developed a leading innovation system for mobile telephony but not for data communication; and second, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the innovation system for mobile data communications? Findings include that early developments mattered, innovative search direction is crucial as are the provision of incentives for innovative activity.

Research limitations/implications

Functional analysis of innovation systems useful for guiding policy actions, which should have the purpose of strengthening weak functions, removing bottlenecks and stimulating inducement mechanisms, in particular if used to stimulate the transition from one phase to another. It needs further development, in particular with respect to the understanding of diffusion processes.

Practical implications

The stimulation of innovation in, and diffusion of, mobile and broadband data services is crucial to development of the innovation system, globally, in Europe and in Sweden. An innovation system which allows for entrepreneurial experimentation should be fostered. Early stage financing and diffusion of services are major system weaknesses. Regulatory authorities should consider addressing innovation explicitly.

Originality/value

New (adapted) approach for guiding policy action. Better understanding of dynamics in the telecom sector, and the comparative success and failure of Swedish industry in sub‐sectors.
Diversification in response to ICT convergence – indigenous capabilities versus R&D alliances of the Finnish telecom industry
Authors: Palmberg Christopher , Martikainen Olli
Published: July 2006

Purpose

While the ICT industry as a whole is undergoing a potentially disruptive phase of development due to the convergence between information and telecom technologies and the rapid diffusion of internet‐related applications. Against this background the purpose of the paper is to analyse recent patterns of internal/indigenous and external diversification of prominent Finnish telecom firms using data on patents and strategic R&D alliances.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology comprises of statistical analyses of patterns of patenting of Finnish telecom firms to capture the internal/indigenous nature of diversification, compared with patterns of external diversification based on a new database of alliances of Finnish firms.

Findings

The results indicate that the Finnish telecom industry has diversified its technological base in recent years. The industry appears internally/indigenously weak in internet‐related “new” telecom technologies and related applications. However, telecom firms have also extensively engaged themselves in complementary R&D alliances in these fields.

Research limitations/implications

The paper carries important implications for policymakers and managers alike related to the sustainability of previous success of Finnish telecom. Limitation related to the use of Finnish patent data that might to capture software technologies sufficiently, and does not aim to/cannot capture the diversified technological competencies of Nokia on a global level.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the combination of patent and R&D alliances data, as well as the development of a concordance table to link technology classes to broader developments in the industry, for a novel and systematic analysis of the responsiveness of the Finnish telecom industry to ICT convergence
The Danish ICT sector in an international perspective: a mismatch between demand and supply
Authors: Pedersen Christian R. , Dahl Michael S. , Dalum Bent
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To analyse the past developments and future challenges of the Danish ICT industries with a focus on the mobile communications industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on ICT employment and usage is analysed from an innovation system perspective in a case study of the Danish ICT industries.

Findings

The Danish ICT sector is characterised by high skill levels and advanced demand while the supply side is lacking behind. However, opportunities is found in the emerging next generation mobile communication network standard due to a combination of a broad skill base, influence of US firms and relatively lesser vested interests in previous generation networks, standards and business models.

Originality/value

This paper is a part of a special issue on next generation mobile telecommunications networks – challenges to the Nordic ICT industries. This paper presents the past development and future challenges of the Danish ICT industries emerging from the mismatch between demand and supply.
Implementing BPM systems: the role of process orientation
Authors: Reijers Hajo A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The presentation and validation of a checklist that can be used to determine an organization's process orientation prior to a business process management systems (BPMS) implementation. Its aim is to help predict the success of BPMS implementation on the basis of the identified process awareness within an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The checklist has been developed on the basis of relevant literature and augmented with practical experience from staff of one of the world's largest BPM system vendors. The study of three BPM System implementations at different client sites have been used to validate the checklist.

Findings

The study suggests that a lack of process orientation may be related to all kinds of problems that affect the speed and cost of a BPMS implementation. The checklist seems useful to predict those problems at sites where process orientation is insufficient.

Research limitations/implications

The number of cases used (3) is quite small. Furthermore, the retrospective assessment of the situation prior to BPM system implementation limits the reliability of the findings. Current results seem a good basis for further refinement and validation.

Practical implications

A very practical, easy to use instrument that can directly be applied by organizations that are expected to be involved in multiple BPM system implementations (e.g. large banks, consultancies, system integrators, etc.).

Originality/value

This paper presents an instrument that does not yet exist to measure a relation often hypothesized upon in existing research.
Business process orientated holonic (PrOH) modeling
Authors: Clegg Ben
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how the application of systems thinking to designing, managing and improving business processes has resulted in a new and unique holonic‐based process modeling methodology know as process orientated holonic modeling.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes key systems thinking axioms that are built upon in an overview of the methodology; the techniques are described using an example taken from a large organization designing and manufacturing capital goods equipment operating within a complex and dynamic environment. These were produced in an 18 month project, using an action research approach, to improve quality and process efficiency.

Findings

The findings of this research show that this new methodology can support process depiction and improvement in industrial sectors which are characterized by environments of high variety and low volume (e.g. projects; such as the design and manufacture of a radar system or a hybrid production process) which do not provide repetitive learning opportunities. In such circumstances, the methodology has not only been able to deliver holonic‐based process diagrams but also been able to transfer strategic vision from top management to middle and operational levels without being reductionistic.

Originality/value

This paper will be of interest to organizational analysts looking at large complex projects whom require a methodology that does not confine them to thinking reductionistically in “task‐breakdown” based approaches. The novel ideas in this paper have great impact on the way analysts should perceive organizational processes. Future research is applying the methodology in similar environments in other industries.
Telecommuting's past and future: a literature review and research agenda
Authors: Siha Samia M. , Monroe Richard W.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Telecommuting continues to be a topic of interest for practitioners and researchers alike. There are significant numbers of employees currently involved in telecommuting around the globe. Organizational implications, global workforce implications and the scarcity of scholarly publications make this research topic one that warrants our further investigation. The purpose of this paper is to explore the literature to identify the substantive work, examine the state of this phenomenon as of to date, particularly the failure and success factors, provide valuable insight to the practitioners and research directions to researchers

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review was conducted in an effort to identify the significant, substantive work to date. We reviewed two major business data bases and limit our review to refereed journals because of the rigorous review process that these articles go through before publication.

Findings

A schema was identified to help categorize topics found in the literature. A framework model is proposed to further explore the relationships between the motivating factors for telecommuting and the resulting outcomes from telecommuting programs.

Practical implications

The literature review and the model should be useful information for both practitioners and researchers in a variety of disciplines including management, communication, and information technology.

Originality/value

Few published papers have attempted to thoroughly review the telecommuting literature. Many of the articles concentrate solely on the individuals who telework. This review, looks at many facets of the telecommuting phenomenon like the workers, their managers, the organization as well as the technological and environmental issues.
Success factors in dealing with significant change in an organization
Authors: Chrusciel Don , Field Dennis W.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

As organizations attempt to deal with change that is transforming, research has identified factors that need to be present in order to optimize the change transformation. The purpose of this research paper is to focus on those critical success factors.

Design/methodology/approach

After presenting a summary of the identified success factors, a combined quantitative and qualitative research methodology focusing on a single case study examines these critical factors in more depth.

Findings

Presented are identified factors of previous research, and two additional critical factors are revealed: flexible curriculum – the need for a comprehensive action plan having a prescribed curriculum; and perception of personal gain – the need to present a clear understanding addressing the aspirations and individual personal goals of those who are both involved and affected by the significant change.

Research limitations/implications

Beyond the limitations inherent in conducting both qualitative and quantitative research on a single case study, the emphasis of this investigation was at one end of a success continuum. While the focus was on the critical and important factors (one end), that leaves the discussion of any other factors and the continuum itself for future research.

Practical implications

By having an action plan that addresses the critical factors for dealing with significant change, the organization increases its chances of a successful transformation, and it may also become a more flexible organization able to deal with future change.

Originality/value

Through this research, two new critical success factors are identified that have impact upon organizations attempting to go through a major significant change transformation.
Exploring the interdependency between reengineering and information technology by developing a conceptual model
Authors: Akhavan Peyman , Jafari Mostafa , Ali‐Ahmadi Ali R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the role of information technology (IT) in business process reengineering (BPR) and their interdependency in the organization, and also to provide a framework for facilitating BPR efforts through IT tools for leading the organization towards knowledge‐based organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on review of recent literature, this is a conceptual paper that examines current perspectives of BPR regarding IT and provides a general framework for the study of BPR and IT.

Findings

Provides a conceptual framework that clarifies the interdependency between IT and BPR and also presents the major IT functions in different areas in the organization during the change program.

Research limitations/implications

Suggests further research studies in case‐based studies implementations and analysis

Practical implications

Provides a very helpful guideline for practitioners in implementing IT tools for change programs. They can also understand to take into account both the emergent nature of change itself and the role of IT in BPR efforts through this paper. Meanwhile organization development researchers, knowledge management practitioners, IT consultants and change leaders may benefit this paper very much.

Originality/value

The paper may be of value to researchers in the change management field and to practitioners involved with BPR and IT. This study further opens up new lines of research and highlights implications for process redesign considering IT necessities, including issues associated with leading adoption of change program through IT tools. The paper also provides a synthesis and analysis of the viewpoints as reflected in the literature on various dimensions of BPR efforts and IT.
Supply chain risk mitigation: modeling the enablers
Authors: Nishat Faisal Mohd , Banwet D.K. , Shankar Ravi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Supply chain risk management assumes importance in the wake of organizations understanding that their risk susceptibility is dependent on other constituents of their supply chain. The purpose of this paper is to present an approach to effective supply chain risk mitigation by understanding the dynamics between various enablers that help to mitigate risk in a supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Using interpretive structural modeling the research presents a hierarchy‐based model and the mutual relationships among the enablers of risk mitigation.

Findings

The research shows that there exists a group of enablers having a high driving power and low dependence requiring maximum attention and of strategic importance while another group consists of those variables which have high dependence and are the resultant actions.

Practical implications

This classification provides a useful tool to supply chain managers to differentiate between independent and dependent variables and their mutual relationships which would help them to focus on those key variables that are most important for effective risk minimization in a supply chain.

Originality/value

Presentation of enablers in a hierarchy and the classification into driver and dependent categories is unique effort in the area of supply chain risk management.
The role of project‐based learning in the “Political and Social Sciences of the Environment” curriculum at Nijmegen University
Authors: Leroy Pieter , Ligthart Saskia , van den Bosch Herman , Ligthart Saskia
Published: July 2006

Since the end of 1996, teachers at the Faculty of Policy Sciences at Nijmegen University, The Netherlands, have been working on a new educational programme called “Political and Social Sciences of the Environment” (PSSE). In fact, the PSSE curriculum builds on the Environmental Policy Sciences curriculum that had existed since 1989, and which from 1998 onwards integrated the former programme (Social Sciences and Environmental Studies). The (re)designing of the PSSE curriculum has been inspired by innovative ideas in education, in which project training plays an important role. This paper discusses the educational background of the new curriculum, its main structure and the goals and functioning of project training therein. We relate our efforts to the goals of pursuing sustainability in higher education, and conclude by summarising the specific profile and features of the curriculum.
Distance education, environmental education and sustainability ‐ An overview of universities in Commonwealth Asia
Authors: Tahir Farrukh
Published: July 2006

Commonwealth countries in Asia are a mixed group, small in number but varying in size from Singapore to India. This paper starts by looking briefly at the current status of distance education in universities in Commonwealth Asia and then presents an overview of the current status and place of environmental education in a sample of higher‐education institutions in some Commonwealth countries. Finally, the paper describes a survey conducted in a number of higher‐education institutions specialising in distance education in Commonwealth nations across Asia, with subsequent considerations of trends seen in Pakistan.
City networks and sustainability ‐ The role of knowledge and of cultural heritage in globalization
Authors: Jan D’Auria Alessio
Published: July 2006

Sustainable development has clearly taken on a global dimension, even if in recent years it has increasingly been acknowledged that there is a close mutual interaction between local and global processes. Politicians, economists and practitioners have realised that regional differences and particularities have become very important for building a people‐based development which is not only goods‐based. Thus, some new keywords for endogenous self‐sustainable development are: networks, knowledge and local milieux. The integration of sustainable development aspects in spatial planning, territory governance and development has become stronger and stronger, combined with a spread of local knowledge and the preservation of both the cultural and environmental heritage. This paper considers all these factors and tries to explain these types of relationships, starting from the idea of city network as a basis for global competition, and moving on towards discussing the role of universities and scientific parks as institutions for knowledge production and dissemination. Finally, the important role of cultural heritage in a territory is investigated, as tool for building a culture‐based growth that should increase social cohesion, local identity and equity. Although largely descriptive, this analysis is of special use to those teaching courses in the fields of architecture, planning and civil engineering, where a broader knowledge of city networks offers a more solid basis upon which awareness of sustainability may be built.
Institutional ecological footprint analysis
‐ A case study of the University of Newcastle, Australia
Authors: Flint Kate
Published: July 2006

With documented declines in the biophysical state of the planet, there is a need to develop indicators of sustainability. Ecological footprint analysis (EFA) can be considered an indicator of sustainability that converts consumption and waste production into units of equivalent land area. Based on the reality of biophysical limits to growth, and presenting data in an aggregated, quantifiable, yet easily comprehensible form, EFA is also a useful tool for environmental policy and management. EFA has typically been applied at the national and regional level as well, as for assessment of technology. This paper develops an ecological footprint model for institutional contexts and this study of the University of Newcastle (NSW) is the first institutional level EFA undertaken in Australia. The case study shows tertiary institutions to be net importers of consumption items and thus dependent on a vast external environment. The EFA highlights those areas of consumption which constitute the largest part of the footprint and thus provides the opportunity for targeting those areas for active management. EFA for this tertiary institution clearly identifies that a reduced ecological footprint would mean a movement towards sustainability.
Backcasting the future
Authors: Roorda Niko
Published: July 2006

In this feature article, sustainable development will be discussed, and it will be explained why eco‐efficiency will have to be raised with a factor of 20 to achieve sustainability. This can be realised through three trajectories: product improvement, product innovation, and system innovation. The relation with strategic decision making will be shown, and the concept of “consequence period” will be introduced. As an example, a transportation system in a large city will be discussed. The method of “backcasting” will be explained, and the consequences of long‐term sustainable development for the work of universities and companies will be considered.
Transdisciplinary case studies as a means of sustainability learning
Authors: Scholz Roland W. , Lang Daniel J. , Wiek Arnim , Walter Alexander I. , Stauffacher Michael
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at presenting the theoretical concepts of the transdisciplinary case study approach (TCS), which is a research and teaching approach developed and elaborated at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), as a means of transition support.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reveals the historical roots of case studies, transdisciplinarity and sustainable development as teaching and research paradigms. The TCS approach is presented, which has been developed at ETH for supporting transition management of regional, urban, and organizational systems. This approach is entrenched by an ontology that reveals the basic characteristics of ill‐defined transition problems, an epistemology that refers to Probabilistic Functionalism and distinguishes between multi‐layered systemic and normative epistemics, a methodology that includes a set of methods for case representation (including modelling and projection), assessment, and strategy building, and a project management model that refers to more than a dozen TCSs in the field of sustainable development. Problems of validity of TCSs as a research methodology are discussed.

Findings

Three major strengths of the TCS approach presented in the paper are: that it is based on three sound paradigms, which focus on different, relevant characteristics of complex, human‐environment systems; i.e. the case study approach, transdisciplinarity and sustainable development, that it is strictly organized according to an elaborated and consistent theoretical framework that includes ontological, epistemological, methodological, and organizational considerations, and that it is itself subject to an ongoing inquiry and adaptation process. All theoretical considerations of the paper are clarified be elaborated examples from the more than 10 years experience with TCS of the authors.

Practical implications

The paper gives a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundation of TCS that might assist other scientists engaged in case study research and teaching to further develop their approaches. Additionally, relevant topics for further research in the field of TCS are presented which hopefully induce an inspiring discussion among case study researchers.

Originality/value

As far we know, this paper is one of the first that presents a comprehensive and theoretically sound overview of applying transdisciplinary case studies as means of sustainability learning. Thus, it can be seen as a first, crucial step for establishing the new research field of TCS research and a sound research community of complex, transdisciplinary problem solving towards sustainability learning.
Learning to research environmental problems from a functional socio‐cultural constructivism perspective
Authors: Stauffacher M. , Walter A.I. , Lang D.J. , Wiek A. , Scholz R.W.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the transdisciplinary case study (TCS) as a learning framework based on what we call functional socio‐cultural constructivism and project‐based learning (PBL). In doing so, the paper attempts to illustrate the applicability of TCS to learn competencies and skills necessary to research problems of sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

TCS is considered a learning framework based on the principle of self‐regulated learning; i.e. students must actively deal with the requirements as well as plan and execute their project work within their own worldviews and goals. TCS methods are essential as we tackle complex real‐world problems.

Findings

The paper discusses challenges and obstacles of such an approach and present lessons learned since 1994, on both the viewpoints of students and of teachers. It conclude that case study learning is a demanding task, especially in a transdisciplinary context where more challenges emerge than in PBL, since goals of teachers, case agents, and students have to be balanced.

Practical implications

TCS or courses like it are important for universities at the present time. Under present budget restrictions and a wide‐ranging mistrust of society toward universities, there is a necessity for a new contract between society and research: students should learn to take over responsibility in societal contexts and be able to communicate beyond the “ivory tower”.

Originality/value

The learning goals of TCS differ from the goals of most university courses. They are more comprehensive and include complex problem solving, societal context, and group processes. The ambitious goal is that students become enabled to tackle complex, real‐world problems.
Integrating research and teaching on innovation for sustainable development
Authors: Posch Alfred , Steiner Gerald
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to point out the necessity of implementing more appropriate approaches instead of the traditional single disciplinary approaches, in order to be able to cope with the ill‐defined, highly complex problem of sustainable development in systems such as organizations or regions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on empirical data concerning expert and stakeholder preferences, it is argued that research and teaching on innovation for sustainability need to be both inter‐ and transdisciplinary.

Findings

Here, the approach of transdisciplinary case studies, developed at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, allows appropriate integration of research and teaching activities and thus leads to mutual learning between the case study actors.

Practical implications

In the second part of the paper, these conceptual considerations are illustrated with the so‐called Erzherzog Johann case study, an integrative research and teaching project at the University of Graz.

Originality/value

In the paper the very complex task to integrate research and teaching on sustainability‐related innovation is described and illustrated with the first transdisciplinary case‐study conducted in Austria according to the ETH approach.
Initiating transdisciplinarity in academic case study teaching
Authors: Muhar Andreas , Vilsmaier Ulli , Glanzer Michaela , Freyer Bernhard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe experiences with the initiation of transdisciplinarity in academic case study teaching with special reference to regional planning, based on the case study “Leben 2014 (Life 2014) – perspectives for regional development in the national park region Ober‐pinz‐gau, Salzburg”.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used, was the evaluation of process steps of the project, based on the general project concept, protocols and questionnaires.

Findings

A key for successful transdisciplinary cooperation is the integration of non‐academic actors at an early stage of the project. Important principles are the implementation of a structure of communication and networking in the case study region and the definition of rules of collaboration. The establishment of personal relations and network building is indispensable in order to guarantee a constant and broad exchange between all participants. Joint decision‐making processes are essential for stable cooperation, which includes a joint problem definition process at the outset of the case‐study phase as well as joint responsibility for decisions and joint ownership of ideas during and after the case‐study phase.

Practical implications

Transdisciplinarity in case‐study teaching also requires thorough preparation of academics. A constant discussion of different approaches to inter‐ and transdisciplinarity, the adaptation of existing conceptual frameworks to the specific requirements of the current case, the building of a committed teaching team and joint teaching of classes are all important. The careful selection of students and their specific preparation with respect to methodology and content are prerequisites for a successful outcome of a transdisciplinary case study.

Originality/value

The paper describes the experience of initiating transdisciplinarity in academic case study teaching.
System experts and decision making experts in transdisciplinary projects
Authors: Mieg Harald A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at a better understanding of expert roles in transdisciplinary projects. Thus, the main purpose is the analysis of the roles of experts in transdisciplinary projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of the ETH‐UNS case studies from the point of view of the psychology of expertise and the sociology of professions is based on findings and considerations from the psychology of expertise and the sociology of professions – as both lines of research are concerned with experts and the use of expertise. This paper focuses on projects in the framework of the so‐called transdisciplinary case study approach that has been developed at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich in the 1990s.

Findings

It is claimed that, firstly, system experts provide important information on the local human‐environmental system and have to be regarded as serious experts, that is knowledge specialists with a certain responsibility for information. Secondly, decision‐making experts run into problems integrating other professionals into transdisciplinary projects and should, therefore, professionalize themselves.

Practical implications

The paper encourages the use of residents, etc. as system experts in transdisciplinary projects.

Originality/value

The roles of experts in transdisciplinary project are clarified.
Is too much of our work in organizations remedial? Do we have to pay more attention to how children and young people learn?
Authors: Cunningham Ian
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To make the case for those involved in organizational learning to take an interest in (and do something about) the problems with schooling.

Design/methodology/approach

Think piece based on experience

Findings

The need is for adults to take action on behalf of young people.

Practical implications

Organizations will run better if schools did a better job in providing a rounded education for young people.

Originality/value

Linking organizational needs with schooling.
Managing mistakes to the players' advantage: lessons from coaching in football (soccer)
Authors: Allpress John
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To show how coaching of footballers has relevance to organizational life.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on experience of coaching coaches in England for the Football Association.

Findings

Significant issues for coaches have been identified and this paper focuses on learning from mistakes.

Practical implications

Coaches need to consider what they are trying to achieve and how they go about it.

Originality/value

This is unique paper that provides real insight into sports coaching that have significance for all coaches.
Executive coach certification and selection: a contrarian's viewpoint
Authors: McCleary David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper is written to increase awareness and focus on the choice of executive coaches. There is a growing trend of selecting coaches based solely on a certification. This methodology of coach selection could lead to disappointing and lackluster results.

Design/methodology/approach

This scope of the paper is executive coaching within organizations, with a specific focus on the potential prerequisite of a coaching certification. The paper is written from the author's point of view. The author has interacted with and interviewed numerous coaches and leaders and extensive personal experience on the subject.

Findings

The results are that quality coaching is primarily about whom the coach is, not what techniques or certifications they hold. The “self” of the coach is the instrument of change, not a bag of tricks accumulated during a “coaching college”.

Practical implications

Coaching certification for many is a defense against personal accountability and responsibility: the responsibility to select and hire quality coaches and the responsibility to be a quality coach. Orchestrating quality coaching programs is difficult and laborious work that cannot be minimized or made more efficient. By certifying coaches we could be sterilizing otherwise potentially powerful relationships and denuding overall quality learning experiences (let alone creativity and further learning) on a grand scale. Any attempt to make the choice of a coach more efficient will potentially reduce the quality of the future coaching experience. Perhaps coaching leaders to coach is a more valuable and meaningful intervention then merely coaching one person's performance.

Originality/value

Quality coaching experiences consistently and significantly increase performance for many leaders. This paper is intended to help leaders and those that assist them in coach selection and coaching program orchestration increase the value and return on investment of coaching interventions.
Adventure education – a new way to confront reality!
Authors: Dwyer Rocky J.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to outline the principles and supporting rationale for the utilization of adventure education in enhancing individual and team synergy for future organizational requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

An examination of theorists' perspectives on adventure education was undertaken to determine the relevancy of the theory to guide individual and group learning to support and enhance individual and team learning in a changing business environment.

Findings

The paper advocates that an understanding of the adventure education concept can enable business leaders to build individual and team synergy to create practical business strategies to support organizational goals, which in turn will lead to enhanced competitiveness and growth opportunities.

Practical implications

Understanding the parallels between training and everyday situations, will enable business leaders to utilize adventure activities to facilitate a continuous learning culture while at the same time building individual and team synergy in support of improved organizational excellence.

Originality/value

This paper presents an overview of the relevance of adventure education which both enhances personal knowledge and understanding at practical level so as to enable business leaders to gain insight on the inherent factors that may be influenced to advance organizational goals and objectives.
Management development through self managed learning: the case of West Sussex County Council
Authors: Davies Anne
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To identify how other authorities in England applied Self managed learning to management development and learning opportunities. The success of the programme within WSCC offered an opportunity to identify good practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The article discusses the application of self‐managed learning within West Sussex County Councils Advanced Management Development Programme.

Findings

It has been identified that the use of self‐managed learning has proved an invaluable technique for getting individuals to think and learn about their own personal development as well as committing to the development of the county council. It has heightened managers' ability to think more strategically and use their learning in practical applications within the workplace.

Originality/value

This article is a useful case study in applying self managed learning to management development, it is not only a clear and coherent programme but also shows the degree of partnership working that is being undertaken with the local university to ensure that delegates not only get a huge amount of learning and development from it but also succeed in achieving a recognised qualification which can lead to a Masters in strategic management
How to be an effective charismatic leader: lessons for leadership development
Authors: Tuomo Takala
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To highlight and explore the concept of charisma and charismatic leadership and to suggest how good leadership is possible.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on the conceptual consideration.

Findings

A way to better charismatic leadership is possible to achieve, but this needs a lot of work and commitment.

Practical implications

The article suggests some key points to develop better charismatic leadership.

Originality/value

The article will be of value to those business managers who want to develop their skills of leadership
Do investors herd intraday in Australian equities?
Authors: Henker Julia , Henker Thomas , Mitsios Anna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to consider whether market wide herding occurs intraday.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the 1995 Christie and Huang and the 2000 Chang et al. models, the paper tests whether market wide and industry sector herding occurs intraday in the Australian equities market.

Findings

Neither market wide nor industry sector herding occurs intraday.

Research limitations/implications

Both herding measures focus on one specific type of herding, herding evidenced by changes in the cross‐sectional return distribution. Therefore the herding measures are ill suited to capture the effects of period specific abnormally high or low market returns and they can also capture herding of market participants or groups of market participants only in as far as it manifests itself in security specific returns.

Originality/value

No previous studies have considered the possibility of intraday herding in equities markets. Even if there is little evidence of herding over longer time periods, market frictions and inefficiencies continue to be exploited at least anecdotally by traders with very short time horizons to the detriment of longer term investors.