bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managerial decision making and competitiveness: the case of Hungary
Authors: Zoltay Paprika Zita , Wimmer Agnes , Szanto Richard
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore three key aspects of managerial decision making, namely managerial skills and attitudes, information and performance measurement supporting decision making, and companies' approaches to the management of relationship with their stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

After giving a broad view of the management practice of the sample, the paper analyzes the differences (by company size, dominant ownership, and performance) of companies according to the routines and attitudes of decision making.

Findings

The findings of the research paper suggest that managerial capabilities and skills, and attitudes toward decision making, the information and performance measurement supporting decision making, and companies' approaches to the management of relationship with their stakeholders have a significant impact on the effectiveness of managerial decision making. All these factors play an important role in the competitiveness of the Hungarian companies.

Research limitations/implications

This research was based on a questionnaire. Further investigations would be necessary to check the results by interviews and case studies.

Practical implications

Beyond summarizing the main experiences, the paper draws up some recommendations for the business community reflecting on the successful companies' practice.

Originality/value

The three factors presented by the paper can constitute a possible framework of managerial decision making in further researches.
Questioning academic standards in the age of innovation
Authors: Abeles Tom P.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how standards drive what is taught in education. International standards, for example in the areas of science and math, and US standards such as the Scholastic Aptitude Tests become ends in themselves and drive the content of education at all levels. The question asked here is whether or not the current system of education, in an internet age, has outlived its usefulness. Are there other options and other measures better suited?

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of the education system and how consideration is made to progress in a changing environment.

Findings

The paper points out that, as with addicts, fear of changing puts education in a spiral which could lead to a collapse unless the courage is found to make a transition from the present, age‐cohort‐driven model to one which acknowledges the differing rates of change inherent in individuals as they grow through life.

Originality/value

The paper challenges current paradigmatic thinking at a time when we have a window for change. It questions whether a return to the successes of science and technology in maintaining country economic/political hegemony may need to be rethought in light of the current world situation.
Toward a higher standard: the changing organizational context of accountability for educational results
Authors: Shupe David A.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the full range of choices that academic institutions presently have for attending to educational results.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a systematic comparison of the eight models currently available to colleges and universities for attending to educational results, relative to four necessary organizational purposes: individual student improvement, individual student accountability, organizational improvement, and organizational accountability.

Findings

This is a time of innovation, not of standardization. As new choices become available, the standard for accountability for educational results continues to rise.

Originality/value

The choices, ranging from established practices to expected alternatives to unexpected innovations, differ significantly in their capacities.
How to discuss accountability with educators or the external stakeholders' guide to the accountability galaxy
Authors: Manning Monica M.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to directly assist external stakeholders in their conversations with educators.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper's design is a practical review of the varied interests of external stakeholders, essential terms, the most prominent recent organizational initiatives for accountability, and the most effective kinds of questions.

Findings

Conversations about accountability are most productive when they are practical and focused.

Originality/value

The paper presents a valuable primer for external stakeholders.
Sun Ray's struggle to overcome innovation trauma
Authors: Moldenhauer‐Salazar Jay , Välikangas Liisa
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Until now there has been little attention paid to the emotional costs of innovation failures, and in particular, how prior innovation failures hinder subsequent new, related innovation. The saga of Sun Microsystems' Sun Ray computer illustrates the devastating impact of institutional innovation failure trauma. This paper aims to investigate its development.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors trace the development of Sun Microsystem's Sun Ray offering, which replaced its failed JavaStation product. As it was launched, the Sun Ray endeavor encountered the classic “innovator's dilemma” problems that are well known to those who attempt to champion disruptive innovations.

Findings

But despite its many strong competitive advantages, the Sun Ray computer has unsuccessfully struggled to catch hold with customers. To a large degree the causes are Sun Microsystems' inability to learn from its earlier innovative JavaStation failure and to recover from the trauma of that failure.

Research limitations/implications

To understand Sun Ray's story, the authors interviewed nearly 40 key people and compiled nearly 300 documents, from internal memos to market analyses to press releases to meeting minutes.

Practical implications

Companies can develop proactive management practices to prevent major trauma and consequent innovation paralysis. Six ways to do so are offered.

Originality/value

This is a study of a radical innovation that could have changed computing history. But Sun Ray, Sun's computing innovation was too closely associated with an earlier, highly traumatic and publicized failure of JavaStation and never really got a chance to prove its mettle. Overcoming such innovation trauma is a critical but underappreciated aspect of innovation management in companies such as Sun Microsystems that depend on continuous innovation for their competitiveness.
How El Al Airlines transformed its service strategy with employee participation
Authors: Herstein Ram , Mitki Yoram
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this case study is to trace the process by which the new management of an airline company sought to implement a premium service strategy and to assimilate this strategy into its organizational culture, with the aim of positioning the company as a high‐quality airline with a place among the leading international airline companies.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth semi‐structured interviews with the chairman, CEO, marketing manager, service manager, human resource manager and employees from different units were held during a period of four months. In addition, documents (reports, industry analyses, newspaper publications, and periodical reports) relating to the change process were collected and reviewed.

Findings

The case study suggests that any attempt by an airline company to change its service culture and to reach high‐quality standards should be led by a planned strategy which fully involves employees, utilizing their knowledge and experience. This should be done through a well‐thought‐out process designed to ascertain customers' concerns and needs, the types of service changes required to meet these needs, and practical steps that can be taken to implement these changes.

Originality/value

This case depicts a unique process of creating a premium‐service culture based on the provision of high‐quality personal service both before the flight, during the flight and after landing.
The Sears acquisition: a retrospective case study of value detection
Authors: Calandro Joseph
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This paper introduces the base‐case‐valuation pattern, which is derived from the modern Graham and Dodd valuation methodology, and it demonstrates how that pattern could be utilized in M&A by way of a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a case study of the 2004 acquisition of Sears by hedge‐fund manager Eddie Lampert. It draws on previously published Graham and Dodd methodological materials as well as Sears' publicly available financial information. The valuation calculations presented in the case is the sole work of the author.

Findings

The results of the case suggest that base‐case valuation could be practically utilized in M&A. Significantly, it could also be utilized in the formulation of an M&A‐negotiating strategy, shareholder‐communication plan, and performance‐improvement plan.

Research limitations/implications

The paper demonstrates how that acquisition contained a reasonable margin‐of safety, or price discount to estimated value, even though it occurred at a multiple of 1.8x Sears' book value at the time.

Practical implications

This case demonstrates the practical utility of base‐case value in M&A by way of the 2004 Sears acquisition.

Originality/value

This work introduces the base‐case‐valuation pattern, and it is the first work, as far as we are aware, that applies the Graham and Dodd methodology to the Sears acquisition even though Eddie Lampert is a noted Graham and Dodd‐based practitioner.
Defending corporate reputation from litigation threats
Authors: Fred Garcia Helio , Ewing Anthony
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Class action litigation has the potential to severely damage the image customers have of a company (brand), often with calamitous consequences for its strategy. Such risks increase when plaintiff's attorneys use all of the instruments of influence to embarrass and persuade large corporations to settle large lawsuits before they ever reach a courtroom. The aim of this paper is to examine this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper offers a five‐point plan that organizations can use to pro‐actively defend themselves from aggressive litigants and thus protect their brand.

Findings

The paper finds that companies that cede the litigation communication advantage to their adversaries commit a fundamental mistake. They fail to understand the threat they face.

Practical implications

Corporations facing class action litigation need to understand that: it is more than a legal fight; and plaintiffs' lawyers count on corporate defendants to act (and communicate) in predictable and often counterproductive ways. Litigation (and all supporting communication) is at its core a battle for the hearts and minds of the stakeholders. It is a simultaneous public relations and political war being waged against the defendant company.

Originality/value

The paper shows how organizations can defend their reputation in litigation by: understanding the context of the fight; identifying the likely assault; pre‐empting their adversary; and communicating forcefully.
Public private partnerships: an exploratory study in health care
Authors: Sciulli Nick
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Public private partnerships (PPPs) are a relatively new policy that some governments now use to secure infrastructure assets. The objective of this paper is to document the construction and development of a Victorian state government hospital, Casey Hospital (CH), to identify the essential features of this contract and the relationship between the government and the private sector provider.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach is employed. The boundaries of the CH case study are limited to the identification of the service or program that was/is subjected to PPP, the reasons for adopting the PPP policy in this instance and what the criteria were that led to a successful/unsuccessful outcome for this project. Data collection methods included interviews with key participants and analysis of archival documentation.

Findings

The findings suggest that clear outcomes as specified in the contract specifications, previous experience in the hospital sector and a willingness to be flexible were key factors that resulted in a successful outcome. The government defines success for PPP projects as being built on time and within budget.

Research limitations/implications

Given that governments in Australia and in many developed countries worldwide have now accepted the procurement model known as public private partnerships, further research is required to ensure that future projects meet defined objectives. This study provides an analysis of one case study and further research needs to be carried out for a thorough assessment of this policy.

Originality/value

Casey Hospital was the first hospital in Australia to be constructed and its ancillary facilities operated under the auspices of a PPP policy. This study is significant as public sector managers can use the findings of this report to help inform future decision making with respect to PPP projects.
The efficiency and profitability effects of China's modern enterprise restructuring programme
Authors: Chen Gongmeng , Firth Michael , Wei Zhang Wei
Published: May 2008

Purpose

In the mid‐1990s, China introduced the Modern Enterprise System (MES) to selected state‐owned enterprises (SOE). The paper aims to examine whether this reform led to improved efficiency and profitability.

Design/methodology approach

The efficiency and performance of enterprises before and after the economic restructuring are examined. Univariate and multivariate (regression) analyses are used to investigate whether there has been a significant change in an enterprise's performance.

Findings

The paper finds there is no improvement in efficiency and profitability after the restructuring. This can be attributed the lack of improvement to the state's ownership of enterprises, bureaucratic management, and poor corporate governance. These things have to change in order to improve corporate efficiency and performance.

Originality/value

China's reform of SOEs is very important to the economic well‐being of the country. This paper is the first to investigate the MES as applied to wholly state‐owned enterprises.
Particle velocity detection in laser deposition processing
Authors: Giuliani V. , de Witt B. , Salluzzi M. , Hugo R.J. , Gu P.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Particle velocity is a critical factor that can affect the deposition quality in manufacturing processes involving the use of a laser source and a powder‐particle delivery nozzle. The purpose of this paper is to propose a method to detect the speed and trajectory of particles during a laser deposition process.

Design/methodology/approach

A low‐power laser light sheet technique is used to illuminate particles emerging from a custom designed powder delivery nozzle. Light scattered by the particles is detected by a high‐speed camera. Image processing on the acquired images was performed using both edge detection and Hough transform algorithms.

Findings

The experimental data were analyzed and used to estimate particle velocity, trajectory and the velocity profile at the nozzle exit. The results have demonstrated that the particle trajectory remains linear between the nozzle exit and the deposition plate and that the particle velocity can be considered a constant.

Originality/value

The use of low‐power laser light sheet illumination facilitates the detection of isolated particle streaks even in high‐powder flow rate condition. Identification of particle streaks in three subsequent images ensures that particle velocity vectors are in the plane of illumination, and also offers the potential to evaluate in a single measurement both velocity and particle size based on the observed scattered characteristics. The method provides a useful simple tool to investigate particle dynamics in a rapid prototyping application as well as other research fields involving the use of powder delivery nozzles.
Over‐infiltration mechanisms in selective laser sintered Si/SiC preforms
Authors: Stevinson B. , Bourell D.L. , Beaman J.J.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to evaluate mechanisms for silicon overfilling including volume expansion of silicon on solidification for composite silicon/silicon carbide (SiC) objects generated using post‐process infiltration of selective laser sintered (SLS) SiC preforms.

Design/methodology/approach

Overfilling was characterized through geometrical means and microscopy, and results were used for further study and discussion of overfilling mechanisms.

Findings

Silicon overfilling in silicon infiltrated SLS SiC parts is attributed primarily to its infiltrant silicon volume expansion on solidification. Si/SiC composites were found to be thermally stable with good material bonding.

Research limitations/implications

Silicon as an infiltrant is unusual as it expands on solidification, whereas most infiltrants contract. Overfilling during infiltration of SLS porous performs is therefore not considered to be prevalent.

Originality/value

This paper provides an examination of the value of silicon as an infiltrant material for SLS SiC preforms. Various mechanisms are presented for volume change during post‐process infiltration of indirect SLS non‐metallic performs.
Effect of infra‐red power level on the sintering behaviour in the high speed sintering process
Authors: Majewski C.E. , Oduye D. , Thomas H.R. , Hopkinson N.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

To investigate the effects of the infra‐red power level on sintering behaviour in the high speed sintering (HSS) process.

Design/methodology/approach

Single‐layer parts were produced using the HSS process, in order to determine the effect of the infra‐red power level on the maximum achievable layer thickness, and the degree of sintering. The parts were examined using both optical microscopy and contact methods.

Findings

It was initially expected that an increase in the infra‐red lamp powder might allow an increase in the depth of sintering that could be achieved, as a result of increased thermal transfer through the powder. However, results in fact indicated that there is a maximum layer thickness that can be achieved, as a result of part shrinkage in the z direction. Optical microscopy images have shown that a greater degree of sintering occurs at higher power levels, which would be expected to correspond to an improvement in the mechanical properties of the parts produced. These images also indicate that the radiation absorbing material forms in small “islands” on the powder bed surface. As sintering progresses, these islands begin to merge; this occurs to a greater extent at higher infra‐red lamp powers.

Research limitations/implications

These results are based only on single layer parts. Further work will examine the sintering characteristics of multiple layer parts.

Practical implications

Results have shown that, whilst it is not possible to increase the achievable layer thickness of the parts produced by modifying the infra‐red lamp power, the degree of sintering can be improved greatly by increasing the power.

Originality/value

HSS is an entirely new process which is currently still under development; the results presented here will directly impact the direction of further development and research into this process.
Local‐genetic slicing of point clouds for rapid prototyping
Authors: Percoco G. , Galantucci L.M.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose to overcome the limitations of polygonization of point clouds for rapid prototyping purposes, by using a direct slicing approach, based on a hybrid local‐genetic algorithm to achieve a robust direct slicing system.

Design/methodology/approach

At first a volume analysis is performed on the point cloud and a space decomposition is realized using elementary voxels. Then, considering each Z level of the voxelized point cloud, the external non‐void voxels are linked togheter using an hybrid local and genetic approach, to generate the contour of the object with an automatic process. The contour of the object is finally converted into slice files suitable for the rapid prototyping machine.

Findings

The genetic algorithm (GA) is very effective in detecting those slices where an optimal solution is not achieved with the local approach, and in finding the minimum path that connects the points belonging to the slice contour.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies must be conducted to improve the efficiency of the approach to the travelling salesman problem (TSP) and to the relation between the cell dimension and the point cloud density. In this context, the use of adaptive slicing will be considered, in order to improve time performances.

Practical implications

The approach is fully automated and enables the direct creation of layered manufactured copies of 3D scanned products directly from the point clouds, avoiding the tessellation phase that is often time consuming and characterized by errors in the STL file.

Originality/value

The use of TSP problem to solve the direct slicing of point clouds is more effective than simple spline fitting techniques, avoiding self‐crossing curves. This approach solves the TSP problem for each slice, exploiting the volumetric space decomposition to fasten the achievement of the solution. In fact the local knowledge is used by the nearest neighbours local search and the partial solution achieved is the starting point of the GA. The GA is effective in finding global minima and results to be fastened by the local approach.
Hedge fund administrators and asset valuations – does it all add up?
Authors: McVea Harry
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of hedge fund administrators, particularly in relation to valuing complex and/or illiquid financial instruments.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proceeds by way of an analysis of key trends and developments within the hedge fund administration industry in relation to the regulatory challenges posed by complex and/or illiquid instruments.

Findings

The paper argues that, because of inherent problems over the attribution of value to complex and/or illiquid assets, emphasis on independent valuation by administrators is largely misplaced. Recent events concerning valuation difficulties in the subprime mortgage market illustrate these very concerns.

Originality/value

The paper questions the ability of independent hedge fund administrators to provide reliable valuations for complex and/or illiquid instruments. Independent valuation of such assets suggests a level of scrutiny that is in fact not present. Moreover, the financial market meltdown surrounding the collapse of the subprime mortgage market provides a timely and salutary reminder that independent valuations of complex and/or illiquid instruments are inherently unreliable.
Trading strategies of the US‐based international mutual funds and test of the SEC regulation
Authors: Imtiaz Mazumder M. , Miller Edward M. , Naka Atsuyuki
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the predictability of the US‐based international mutual fund returns by investigating 2,479 daily observations for all categories of international equity, bond and hybrid mutual funds. Further, trading strategies are proposed and tested under different scenario including a proposed regulation by the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample is split and the initial sub sample is used to investigate return patterns of international funds and to develop trading rules based on the predictable return patterns. Trading rules are then tested on the holdout sample.

Findings

Empirical results demonstrate statistically significant predictabilities. Various trading strategies show that the returns of both load and no‐load funds are economically significant beating a buy‐and‐hold strategy. Empirical findings are consistent across the fund categories irrespective of sizes and styles. The tested strategies are profitable even with various limits on frequency of trading, minimum holding periods and even under a recent SEC's proposed regulation. Further, possible contracting and regulatory changes are proposed to improve the efficiency in the mutual fund industry.

Originality/value

The results confirm previous findings of statistically and economically significant regularities from trading strategies that involve following the US markets. A test of SEC's proposed regulation documents that short‐term investors may benefit from active trading strategy even if the SEC's rule is implemented.
Lloyd's names fail in claim against government based on failure to implement insurance directive
Authors: Gray Joanna
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report and comment on the Court of Appeal, Poole and Others v. HM Treasury.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the facts surrounding the case and comments on the ruling.

Findings

Lord Justice Buxton gave the only judgment in this appeal, with which his fellow judges concurred, and he confirmed that the lower Court was right to dismiss the appellants' claim based on their interpretation of the 1973 insurance directive and the effect of the European Court of Justice decision in Francovich.

Originality/value

The Court of Appeal, in this decision, confirms that the principles of European law surrounding state liability are unlikely to be of much help to those who suffer such losses and see them partly as a result of state or regulatory failure.
Supply chain visibility: lost in translation?
Authors: Francis Vernon
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe miscommunication about the ubiquitous term “supply chain visibility” (SCV), to propose a precise definition for it and identify its salient characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature search was conducted to describe the widespread use of the term SCV and the miscommunication that occurs surrounding its use. The proposed definition and the salient characteristics of SCV are original conceptual contributions.

Findings

The study finds that the term SCV is widely used in the supply chain management and logistics communities Many vendors, third party logistics providers, transportation and other companies profess to have or provide it, yet SCV remains one of the top issues consistently mentioned in surveys of supply chain management professionals. This occurs in part because of the confusion surrounding its meaning.

Research limitations/implications

Usage of the term SCV is ubiquitous and a complete review of all sources is not possible, revealing over 348,000 sources from internet and academic database searches. Only selected, key results are from these sources are reported. The proposed definition for and characterization of SCV are the author's conceptual contributions, open to discussion and debate.

Practical implications

A precise definition of SCV along with its important attributes helps to promote consistent understanding, interpretation and to clarify communications, especially between vendors and logistics service providers.

Originality/value

The proposed definition is new, as well as the discussion of its important attributes and implications.
Drivers for the participation of small and medium‐sized suppliers in green supply chain initiatives
Authors: Lee Su‐Yol
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to describe what facilitates small and medium‐sized suppliers in participating in green supply chain initiatives. These initiatives are inter‐organizational initiatives attempting to improve environmental performance throughout the entire supply chain. This paper seeks to examine buyer green supply chain management practices, government involvement, and internal readiness of the suppliers themselves, as possible drivers.

Design/methodology/approach

The research framework and hypotheses were examined by using a mail survey conducted in South Korea in 2005. The empirical analysis used data from 142 small and medium‐sized suppliers. Validity and reliability of the scales for the construct of interest were assessed through a factor analysis and Cronbach‐alpha test. To test the hypotheses for the drivers of suppliers' willingness to participate in green supply chain initiatives, hierarchical linear regression was adopted.

Findings

The study finds that buyer environmental requirements and support were positively linked to their suppliers' willingness to participate in green supply chain initiatives. The government can play an important role in motivating these suppliers. Finally, the paper reveals that the more slack resources and organizational capabilities suppliers had, the more willingly they were to participate in those initiatives.

Originality/value

This research is one of the few studies which explore the drivers of participation in green supply chain initiatives by considering small and medium‐sized suppliers and their most important stakeholders, including buyers and the government.
Creating satisfaction in the demand‐supply chain: the buyers' perspective
Authors: Cambra‐Fierro Jesús J. , Polo‐Redondo Yolanda
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to analyze the concept of satisfaction in firm‐supplier relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach is considered in the study. The paper offers a set of scales to analyze the main antecedents of the relationship quality concept. Causal relations are also analyzed by testing a model based on structural equations.

Findings

Cooperation, communication, trust and adaptation to expectations explain satisfaction. Proposals for further research related to commitment and long‐term orientation of supply relationships are also included.

Research limitations/implications

This paper takes the Spanish context as reference. Generalization of the conclusions should begin with a previous analysis to consider the similarities and differences between contexts. The data of the research are based on the buyer's perspective.

Practical implications

Suppliers are able to identify elements affecting satisfaction. In order to establish lasting relationships, suppliers must identify the real needs of companies. They must also manage cooperation, communication and trust. The model and measurement scales could easily be adapted beyond the dyad and beyond the whole demand‐supply chain. The conclusions could be valuable to both buyers and sellers.

Originality/value

The paper highlights that some works published in Supply Chain Management: An International Journal indicate that the factors determining company‐supplier relationships have to be thoroughly studied and additional models explaining these relationships have to be tested.
Determining a cost‐effective customer service level
Authors: Jeffery Mariah M. , Butler Renee J. , Malone Linda C.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an approach for determining inventory levels that result in a minimum cost customer service level for specific products based on their demand characteristics and profit margin.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses logistic regression to quantify the relationship between customer service level and inventory on‐hand in relation to forecasted demand, as well to estimate the impact of factors such as forecast accuracy, customer lead‐times, and demand variability on this relationship. It then performs financial analysis in order to associate a cost with customer service level.

Findings

Empirical results based on data from a semiconductor manufacturer indicate significant cost‐savings can be achieved by applying the proposed method over the organization's current ad hoc practices.

Research limitations/implications

The minimum cost customer service level identified via the methodology is based on values of dynamic factors that are specific to the time when data were collected. Therefore, frequent updating is necessary to ensure the customer service level remains close to the minimum cost. Future research could identify the ideal frequency for updating inventory levels based on cost minimization and production stability.

Originality/value

This research presents an inventory management methodology for organizations with variable, non‐stationary demand. In contrast to much of the current inventory modeling literature, in which service level goals are selected in an ad hoc or a priori manner, this research determines an ideal (minimum cost) customer service level from the supplier's perspective based on products' unique characteristics.
Relative effects of design, integration and information sharing on supply chain performance
Authors: Sezen Bülent
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The aim of this study is to empirically investigate the relative effects of supply chain integration, supply chain information sharing and supply chain design on supply chain performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 125 manufacturing firms in Turkey are used for analyzing the relationships between the study variables. Regression analyses are used to find the relative impacts of predictor variables (design, integration and information sharing) on flexibility, resource and output performances of a supply chain.

Findings

According to the results of regression analyses, the only significant effects on resource and output performances belong to supply chain design. Integration and information sharing are correlated with performance measures, but their relative effect sizes are lower than supply chain design.

Originality/value

The construct of supply chain design developed in this study reveals a significant impact on resource and output performances of a supply chain. Therefore, this study can be viewed as an attempt to increase the level of awareness on supply chain design issues.
Supply chain planning using multi‐stage stochastic programming
Authors: Nagar Lokesh , Jain Karuna
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the functionality of multistage programming approach on network supply chain structure.

Design/methodology/approach

The general supply chain structure is considered and the supply chain planning model is developed using a two stage programming approach. The same model is extended to cover the applicability and advantages of a multi‐stage programming approach.

Findings

A multi‐period supply chain model for new product launches under uncertain demand for supply chain network structure has been developed. The model allows simultaneous determination of optimum procurement quantity, production quantity across the different plants, transportation routes and the outsourcing cost in case of shortages. The proposed multi‐stage model is compared with the standard two‐stage model by examining the difference between the objective values of two solutions. The research clearly shows the importance of the multi‐stage model as compared to the two‐stage programming model.

Research limitations/implications

The models developed here are limited to covering demand uncertainty, whereas real supply chain exhibits different uncertainties like capacity, processing time, etc. This can be the future direction for extending the work.

Practical implications

The model is very useful in designing and planning the supply chain in an uncertain environment. The model allows the adjustment of the production plan as time progresses and uncertainties become resolved.

Originality/value

The model uses a scenario approach to address the supply chain planning problem for a supply chain network structure under an uncertain environment and compares the two‐solution approach for a set of problems. Generally supply chain costs are in millions of dollars and the saving using multi‐stage programming can be significant.
Purchase of clothing and its linkage to family communication and lifestyles among young adults
Authors: Lu Hsu Jane , Chang Kai‐Ming
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how family communication patterns and lifestyles are linked to purchases of sports shoes and casual clothing for young adults.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey was conducted in 2005, and total valid samples were 576. Differences in purchasing decisions among various segments of young adults are analysed for two product categories: sports shoes and casual clothing.

Findings

This study segments the respondents into two clusters, pragmatic and fashion‐cognisant. The family communication patterns for respondents in the pragmatic cluster are more likely to be low concept‐oriented, Protective and Laissez‐faire. The respondents in the pragmatic cluster purchase sports shoes and casual clothing less frequently, and pay less attention to marketing‐related information. The fashion‐cognisant respondents pay special attention to the marketing‐related information and brands can be influential in decisions. These fashion‐cognisant young adults are considered to be opinion leaders, and purchase sports shoes and casual clothing more frequently with higher budgets. The family communication patterns of respondents in this cluster are high concept‐oriented: Pluralistic and Consensual.

Practical implications

Strategic marketing designed to attract pragmatic young adults can follow two directions: atmosphere in stores and discounts. For young adults who are fashion‐cognisant, directions of strategic marketing are to strengthen the brand image and utilise advertising to disseminate information.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the area that has not been studied exclusively, the linkages of family communication patterns and lifestyles to purchases of sports shoes and casual clothing.
The effects of facial image and cosmetic usage on perceptions of brand personality
Authors: Guthrie Michelle , Kim Hye‐Shin , Jung Jaehee
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine women's perceptions of brand personality in relation to women's facial image and cosmetic usage. This study seeks to develop a better understanding of how various factors influence perceptions of cosmetic brands.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic survey was administered to a sample of 225 female participants at a mid‐Atlantic university in the USA. The survey included items measuring facial image, cosmetic usage, brand personality, and brand attitude. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationship among variables.

Findings

While the brand personality of competence was found to be important across all three brands, consumer perceptions pertaining to the remaining brand personality traits differed. This study found that consumers' facial image influenced the total quantity of cosmetics used but not the variation in quantity in different situations. Results also indicate that a relationship exists between facial image and brand perceptions. Also, it was found that a different group of brand personality traits influenced brand attitude for each cosmetic brand.

Research limitations/implications

By examining how facial image and cosmetic usage determine brand perceptions, companies can improve their marketing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and increase their customer base. Moreover, by identifying the brand personalities that attract consumers, companies can pin‐point the characteristics customers look for in a product, which in turn can be used to enhance brand image. Further research on different age groups and cultures should be conducted to better understand cosmetic consumers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge in the area of consumer behavior and cosmetics. From this study, a better understanding of cosmetic consumers is gained and the results provide brand marketers with valuable information.
Advertisements: interpreting images used to sell to young adults
Authors: Dana Adomaitis Alyssa , Johnson Kim P.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify images used in advertising directed toward young adults, investigate what young adults thought of these images, and explore how young adults used these images.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of 674 apparel and cosmetic advertisements located in four fashion magazines (Elle Girl, Seventeen, YM, and TeenVogue) resulted in eight categories. Participants (n=32) viewed advertisements representative of the categories and answered questions related to their thoughts about the model depicted in the advertisement and their use of the images.

Findings

Participants' used the models as a point of comparison. Participants primarily commented on their own weight relative to the thin models and expressed a need to lose weight to appear like them. With two categories of advertisements depicting average weight models participants noted that the model appeared realistic. However, they did not draw comparisons between themselves and these models.

Research limitations/implications

Young adults do make comparisons between themselves and models used in fashion advertising. These comparisons were primarily downward. Use of average‐sized models may not be a solution to negative impacts on body image, as these participants did not make use of the average‐sized models as a point of comparison.

Originality/value

Young women do compare themselves with models used in advertising. They recognize average weight women in advertising but do not make the same types of comparisons with these models, suggesting that the use of average weight models may be a solution to advertising's impact on developing negative body images in young adults.
A study of the pyjamas purchasing behaviour of Chinese consumers in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Rahman Osmud , Zhu Xiuli , Liu Wing‐sun
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This study aims to explore and understand consumers' perceptions and behaviour towards pyjamas in the People's Republic of China (China).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative analysis and comparative methods were used for this study. From a large body of literature, seven product attributes were identified and used to measure and evaluate what constitutes consumers' purchasing decision for pyjamas. A total of 203 usable surveys were compiled, analyzed and collated.

Findings

This study shows evidence that consumers are more conscious of the functional values of a low‐involvement product than the symbolic values. The results of this survey indicate that comfort, fabric and quality are significant attributes, whereas country‐of‐origin and brand are relatively insignificant determinants for purchasing a pair of pyjamas.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this study include the use of a convenience sample of female college students and confinement to a specific product – pyjamas. The results of this study are useful for fashion designers and marketers to understand Chinese consumers' perceptions of pyjamas.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few consumer research studies on a low‐involvement and privately consumed apparel product – pyjamas. The findings of this study provide insight and implications for fashion practitioners to develop their product and business in China.
Purchasing global luxury brands among young Korean consumers
Authors: Park Hye‐Jung , Rabolt Nancy J. , Sook Jeon Kyung
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Since South Korea has widened its market doors to global trade, demand has been continuously on the rise for foreign luxury brands, especially from young South Korean consumers. This study aims to identify the determinants of young South Korean consumers' purchasing intentions toward foreign luxury fashion brands and their relative importance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used in this study were gathered by surveying university students in Seoul, South Korea using convenience sampling, and 319 questionnaires were used in the statistical analysis. In analyzing data, factor analysis, correlation, and regression were conducted.

Findings

The results showed that all determinants, except for vanity, were significantly related to the purchasing of foreign luxury fashion brands. Regarding their relative importance, purchasing frequency was the most influential factor followed by conformity, age, consumer ethnocentrism, social recognition, and pocket money, in that order.

Originality/value

For the luxury brand marketers, practical implications of why young South Korean consumers have increasing demands for foreign luxury brands, the potential market growth, consumer profiles, and marketing strategies were discussed.
Evolution of the Los Angeles County apparel industry
Authors: Bailey‐Todd Allyson , Eckman Molly , Tremblay Kenneth
Published: May 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze business patterns in the Los Angeles County apparel industry, with the primary focus being globalization, trade policy and offshore sourcing, to establish how trade policy may affect small or mid‐size apparel manufacturers.

Design/methodology/approach

The method was a qualitative analysis of telephone interviews with apparel firms and associations in Los Angeles County. In total, 25 executives were interviewed. Analysis of the interviews enabled the investigation of the impacts of trade policy on apparel manufacturers and afforded an understanding of the viability of transitioning to a capital‐ and technology‐intensive industry.

Findings

The Los Angeles County apparel industry can succeed with both high and low value‐added activities. This combination will allow its infrastructure to survive while simultaneously growing and evolving in design and marketing.

Research limitations/implications

The apparel industry in Los Angeles County has historically been made up of immigrant workers, labor‐intensive production activities and low cost apparel products. Continued analysis of the industry concerning possible continued decline is warranted.

Practical implications

The Los Angeles County apparel industry is re‐positioning to become increasingly design‐ and marketing‐intensive, outsourcing many low value‐added activities to offshore contractors. Integration of the data may provide insight into ways in which trade policy changes alter offshore sourcing practices in Los Angeles County.

Originality/value

This study is a benchmark for the Los Angeles County apparel industry to measure its evolution. The replication of this research in subsequent years will provide a timely profile of a dynamic industry.
Towards a model of work engagement
Authors: Bakker Arnold B. , Demerouti Evangelia
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of the recently introduced concept of work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative and quantitative studies on work engagement are reviewed to uncover the manifestation of engagement, and reveal its antecedents and consequences.

Findings

Work engagement can be defined as a state including vigor, dedication, and absorption. Job and personal resources are the main predictors of engagement; these resources gain their salience in the context of high job demands. Engaged workers are more creative, more productive, and more willing to go the extra mile.

Originality/value

The findings of previous studies are integrated in an overall model that can be used to develop work engagement and advance career development in today's workplace.