bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Networking inside the organization: a case study on knowledge sharing
Authors: Rolland Nicolas , Kaminska‐Labbé Renata
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper illustrates, on the basis of a case study of a multinational corporation, the positive impact of intra‐organizational networking on the capacity to sustain competitive advantage in a highly volatile environment. It aims to provide researchers, consultants and managers with insights on how to design an organization leveraging internal resources and capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

One original case is presented, along with a series of analytical points drawn from this study. The research design is based on action research methods (one author participated in designing and implementing the “networking attitude” project) as well as primary (interviews) and secondary data (internal documents). The paper makes several basic points on the relationship between inter‐unit knowledge sharing and renewing competitive advantage in multinational corporations.

Findings

The critical findings relate to the importance of creating effective inter‐personal networks for enhancing knowledge sharing, and to the direct positive impact on overall strategic performance of transferring knowledge across organizational units. The bottom line is that knowledge is detained by people and it cannot be coordinated in a top‐down centralized manner, but rather requires organizational designs based on greater autonomy, efficient incentive systems and strategically coherent organizational cultures.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the paper are based on a single case study of a firm that successfully managed to create intra‐organizational knowledge‐sharing networks that resulted in significant improvements in overall performance, and hence generalization and robustness of the results would require the analysis of additional – successful and unsuccessful cases.

Practical implications

The paper provides insights on the creation of effective knowledge‐sharing networks in multinational corporations.

Originality/value

The data, approach, and analysis are all original. This paper enriches the existing theory on knowledge management and strategy formation by highlighting the direct link between leveraging internal resources and improved performance. It addresses the problem of knowledge sharing in multinational corporations and emphasizes the importance of interpersonal links and autonomy in organizations. The model of knowledge sharing described in the paper can easily be adapted in different contexts and should therefore be of value to managers. To researchers it offers a comprehensive framework integrating internal capabilities and strategy implementation perspectives.
From knowing to doing: experience and flexibility make the difference
Authors: Gelb Betsy D. , Geiger‐Oneto Stephanie , Gelb Gabriel M.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

While managers have many opportunities to learn about strategic principles, this article investigates how managers understand and use them. Focusing on principles from the writing of Peter F. Drucker, described by many as “the man who invented management,” the purpose of the study is to test the relationship of organizational flexibility to implementing his principles and also to explore how they are implemented.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct an online survey of senior managers about their familiarity with each of five of Drucker's ideas, their agreement with each, and how they are implemented. The respondents also report how management ideas are put into practice in their organization.

Findings

As expected, we find that implementation of strategic concepts is likelier given greater organizational flexibility, a willingness to try something new. As Drucker posited, the way an organization is organized and motivated affects whether it will implement profitable strategies.

Research limitations/implications

This is a study of 100 executives who responded to an academic inquiry. The authors do not know whether the respondents were affected by the academic focus. Further, since the respondents are employed in a wide variety of industries, the conclusions are necessarily broad and may not reflect any one industry's values.

Originality/value

It is well known that enterprises develop cultures that either welcome or repel new ideas. This paper may motivate managers to consider the flexibility of their own organization in reacting to and assimilating “not invented here” possibilities.
Strategy tools: who really uses them?
Authors: Knott Paul
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The paper complements other published material on strategy tools by presenting a picture of how practicing managers use tools and concepts in strategy activity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on interviews with a diverse set of managers. The interviews explored how these managers used tools in a chosen strategy activity.

Findings

The paper presents a profile of how managers use tools that refines and challenges existing studies. Writing on strategy tools often implies strict application of the tools. In practice, managers take parts from different tools and mould them to suit pre‐existing business objectives and processes. This requires them to have a wide knowledge of tools and to reflect on them critically. Managers use tools as a source of inspiration as much as for communication or for facilitating initiatives. When looking to extend their knowledge, they seek new ideas, not packaged solutions.

Practical implications

The implication for managers is to focus on reconstructing tools to fit local needs. The paper argues that this does not mean corrupting tools and is more effective than seeking better tools that already fit.

Originality/value

Prior studies of strategy tools have focused mainly on the extent of tool use. This paper considers in more depth how managers enact these tools within their firms, and hence advances from the study of fads to the study of strategy practice. Its findings are relevant to those who devise and communicate tools as well as to managers.
Business leaders speak out: their real strategic problems
Authors: Donald Hopkins H. , Swift Tim
Published: September 2008

Purpose

Many observers agree that the recommendations from academic research are not followed by real world organizations, and that business researchers rarely consult practitioners when formulating research questions. Calls are increasing to make management research more relevant for business managers. This paper aims to seek to capitalize upon this opportunity by going straight to managers on the front line and asking them about their most pressing problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors surveyed over 350 Chief Executive Officers of large, medium and small‐cap US firms. The authors asked these executives to describe the most important strategic problem facing their firms, to identify the fundamental source of the problem, and to identify the best response to this problem.

Findings

Executives tell us that their most common strategic problems relate to threats from new technology, and new competitors. Further, respondents believe that the most important threats originate outside the firm.

Practical implications

The survey can help to align the interests of academic researchers and business practitioners. Future case study research can explore the most effective tactics in use to deal with the most important strategic problems.

Originality/value

Both practitioners and researchers should consider this paper's findings. Business executives can gain insights on the key concerns of their US peers in today's market. Management researchers and educators can consider using the findings of this survey to formulate new, more pragmatic research questions, and to make management curriculum more relevant to today's managers.
A new look at the sports paradigm for business: performing isn't enough
Authors: Adcroft Andy , Teckman Jon
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This article aims to provide an original explanation of the outcome of contests using a performing‐competing framework.

Design/methodology/approach

In developing a conceptual model to explain the outcome of contests the article develops a set of assumptions that are supported by theory before combining them into a model with illustrative examples.

Findings

Understanding the outcome of contests is a complex business. Contests are not always won by the best performing team but rather are won by the team with the most appropriate blend of competitiveness and performance.

Originality/value

The article takes a novel approach by combining management theory with sporting examples in order to make a conceptual innovation.
The great game of gotcha
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the strategic irrelevancy of much prognostication in business.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides an opinion column.

Findings

This column shows how far off base recent government predictions of the price of oil have been, and compares this supposed miserable failure to similar (inevitable) failures on the part of the private sector. Single‐point prediction is essentially a sucker's game; though it is demanded by outside authorities, and often must be supplied for tactical reasons, it should never be relied upon for strategic purposes.

Originality/value

Exposes how pointless, from a strategic point‐of‐view, the mass of predictive effort in both private and public sectors can be.
Grow your business by offering less – and more
Authors: Jackson Stuart E.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

Most business leaders buy into the logic of differentiating their products from those of competitors, and of offering more complete solutions to customer needs. But what if you find that other competitors with stripped‐down offerings are gaining share? Does that mean you should abandon efforts at differentiation and switch to a simplified, low‐cost product? If so, what should you do about customers who say they like the more complete, higher‐value offering? In this column, Stuart Jackson considers a number of examples where companies have disaggregated their service offering to create a menu of options that appeal to a wide range of customers. The author then proposes four key questions for companies considering going down this path.

Design/methodology/approach

In this article, Jackson considers service disaggregation strategies for companies in a number of different industries, including retailing, airlines and software. Jackson then draws lessons that can be applied broadly across any business considering tiered levels of services and pricing as a new source of profitable growth.

Findings

Most companies want to offer more complete solutions to customer needs with all sorts of added features “built‐in”. This makes sense only as long as the large majority of customers really value all these features. If not, companies should examine ways to disaggregate their service offerings and broaden the range of their customer appeal.

Originality/value

By looking in detail at when taking away product features or charging more for specific services does or does not make sense, this article provides valuable insights into how to understand and predict when changes in service offerings will support increased competitive advantage and value creation.
Electroluminescent light sources via soft lithography
Authors: Young R.J.H. , Evans P.S.A. , Hay G.I. , Southee D.J. , Harrison D.J.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

Microcontact printing is a process used to print high‐resolution protein arrays for biosensors. The paper aims to investigate using these techniques to print electrically conductive fine line structures for electroluminescent (E/L) light sources.

Design/methodology/approach

The viability of using microcontact printing as a process for electronics fabrication is investigated. Polydimethylsiloxane stamps inked with alkanethiol compounds form self‐assembled monolayers on substrate surfaces, acting as the resist to subsequent etching processes. The printed lines are characterized with regard to their performance as high‐electric field generators in electroluminescent displays.

Findings

It has been demonstrated that microcontact printing is a cheap, repeatable process for fabricating electronic devices. The results demonstrate the viability of the process to fabricate electric field generator structures for E/L light sources with reduced driving voltages.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that microcontact printing can produce electrically conductive fine‐line structures with high resolution, confirming its viability in printed electronics manufacture.
ProSurf technology road map – a summary
Authors: Ling John , Starkey Peter , Weinhold Michael
Published: September 2008

Purpose

In August 2007, the European Institute of Printed Circuits produced a Technology Roadmap for the industry for the period 2007‐2017. The purpose of this paper is to give details of the roadmap, the aim of which is to provide information which underpins the aims of the EU‐funded ProSurf project, which are to strengthen European small‐to‐medium enterprises (SME) competitiveness in both the medium‐ and long‐term through increasing knowledge and awareness of high‐tech methods in these industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is an outline of the ProSurf project which will enable SMEs to have a clear view of the trends that will affect their businesses in the coming decade, and be delivered in a way that is readily comprehensible.

Findings

The summary highlights the present market, the market characteristics, and the position of the European PCB industry today. General factors which influence market trends are listed, within which the demands for miniaturisation and weight reduction, and higher data transmission rates are notable. There are specific requirements of each market sector, viz military, consumer, and automotive electronics, and here the roadmap looks at design rules and manufacturing capabilities. Towards the end of the roadmap attention is paid to the environmental considerations.

Originality/value

The ProSurf technology roadmap is a unique document without peer, and is specific to the European PCB industry whilst having considerable influence in other global areas as the technology demands within Europe impact upon production elsewhere.
The sonochemical surface modification of materials for electronic manufacturing. The effect of ultrasonic source to sample distance
Authors: Cobley Andy , Mason Tim
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To build on the results detailed in the previous paper where it was shown that sonochemical surface modification could be achieved in water. This paper aims to look at one of the factors affecting sonochemical surface modification, namely the ultrasonic source to sample distance.

Design/methodology/approach

Ultrasound was applied through deionized water for the surface modification of three materials: a high Tg PCB laminate (Isola 370HR), a polyphenylene ether – polystyrene polymer (Noryl HM4025) and an acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene/polycarbonate (Cycolac S705). The efficacy of the treatment was determined by weight loss, scanning electron microscopy, contact angle, roughness and tape testing after electroless copper plating.

Findings

The study confirmed, and extended the previous findings, that a range of substrates could be sonochemically surface modified in water, even though in this work the ultrasonic horn had a larger tip size and produced a different ultrasonic intensity. Although the results were material dependent, the ultrasonic source to sample distance was found to be critical. Employing a spacing of 5 mm produced samples which generally exhibited higher weight loss, roughness and significant changes in surface morphology than when a distance of 25 mm was utilized.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that sonochemical surface modification has the potential to be a much more sustainable surface modification process than those currently employed in the electronics industry. However, to achieve this outcome acoustic cavitation and factors affecting it (such as source to sample distance) must be understood so that suitable equipment can be built.
Reliability aspects of electronic devices for advanced requirements
Authors: Schüßler Florian , Rösch Michael , Hörber Johannes , Feldmann Klaus
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to detail the qualification of alternative substrate materials and reliability aspects for quad flat no lead (QFN) packages for highly stressed electronic devices, e.g. for use in automotive applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Detailed information is given on the advanced climatic and mechanical requirements that electronic devices have to withstand during life cycle testing to qualify for the automotive industry. Studies on the suitability of high‐temperature thermoplastics as substrate materials for printed circuit boards and the qualification of QFN packages for advanced requirements are described. In addition, information on cause‐effect relationships between thermal and vibration testing are given.

Findings

With respect to adhesion of metallization on high‐temperature thermoplastics and the long‐term stability of the solder joints, these substrate materials offer potential for use in electronic devices for advanced requirements. In addition, the long‐term stability of the solder joints of QFN packages depends on the design of the landings on the PCB and the separation process of the components during manufacturing.

Research limitations/implications

The paper covers only a selection of possible high‐temperature thermoplastic materials that can be used in electronics production. Also, this paper has a focus on the new packaging type, QFN, in the context of qualification and automotive standards.

Originality/value

The paper details the requirements electronic devices have to meet to be qualified for the automotive industry. Therefore, this contribution has its value in giving information on possible substrate alternatives and the suitability for the usage of QFN components for highly stressed electronic devices.
The application of X‐rays in the failure analysis of electronic devices and systems
Authors: Smith C.A.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The aim is to focus on the application of X‐rays in the failure analysis of electronic devices and systems, with an emphasis on X‐ray radiography and X‐ray spectroscopy.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory behind X‐ray radiography and X‐ray spectroscopy is reviewed, and relevant case studies are used to illustrate the application of these techniques in the failure analysis of electronic devices and systems.

Findings

Examples from recent case studies are given.

Originality/value

The paper provides an introduction to X‐ray methods for engineers working on the failure analysis of electronic devices and systems who may be unfamiliar with these techniques.
Toward a formal theory of socioculture
Authors: Yolles M. , Frieden B.R. , Kemp G.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to initiate a new, formal theory of sociocultural physics.

Design/methodology/approach

Its intended scope is limited to predicting either long‐term, large‐scale or short‐term, small‐scale sociocultural events. The theory that the authors develop, called sociohistory, links three independent but relatable approaches: part of Sorokin's epistemological theory of sociocultural dynamics, Frieden's epistemological theory of extreme physical information (EPI), and Yolles's social viable systems (SVS) theory.

Findings

Although not all of Sorokin's ideas are universally accepted, a subset of them is found to be extremely useful for describing the conceptual context of complex systems. This includes how sociocultural processes link closely into political processes.

Research limitations/implications

The theory that develops helps explain how opposing, cultural enantiomers oryin‐yangforces (represented, for instance, by the polar mindsets represented in Islamic fundamentalism and global enterprise) can result in violent conflict, or in either viable or non‐viable social communities. The informationsIandJof EPI theory are regarded, respectively, as sensate and ideational enantiomers.

Originality/value

While the resulting sociocultural physics is in its infancy, an illustrative application to the developmental dynamics of post‐colonial Iran demonstrates its potential utility.
A new definition of the Adomian polynomials
Authors: Rach Randolph C.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To provide a new proof of convergence of the Adomian decomposition series for solving nonlinear ordinary and partial differential equations based upon a thorough examination of the historical milieu preceding the Adomian decomposition method.

Design/methodology/approach

Develops a theoretical background of the Adomian decomposition method under the auspices of the Cauchy‐Kovalevskaya theorem of existence and uniqueness for solution of differential equations. Beginning from the concepts of a parametrized Taylor expansion series as previously introduced in the Murray‐Miller theorem based on analytic parameters, and the Banach‐space analog of the Taylor expansion series about a function instead of a constant as briefly discussed by Cherruaultet al., the Adomian decompositions series and the series of Adomian polynomials are found to be a uniformly convergent series of analytic functions for the solutionuand the nonlinear composite functionf(u). To derive the unifying formula for the family of classes of Adomian polynomials, the author develops the novel notion of a sequence of parametrized partial sums as defined by truncation operators, acting upon infinite series, which induce these parametrized sums for simple discard rules and appropriate decomposition parameters. Thus, the defining algorithm of the Adomian polynomials is the difference of these consecutive parametrized partial sums.

Findings

The four classes of Adomian polynomials are shown to belong to a common family of decomposition series, which admit solution by recursion, and are derived from one unifying formula. The series of Adomian polynomials and hence the solution as computed as an Adomian decomposition series are shown to be uniformly convergent. Furthermore, the limiting value of themth Adomian polynomial approaches zero as the indexmapproaches infinity for the prerequisites of the Cauchy‐Kovalevskaya theorem. The novel truncation operators as governed by discard rules are analogous to an ideal low‐pass filter, where the decomposition parameters represent the cut‐off frequency for rearranging a uniformly convergent series so as to induce the parametrized partial sums.

Originality/value

This paper unifies the notion of the family of Adomian polynomials for solving nonlinear differential equations. Further it presents the new notion of parametrized partial sums as a tool for rearranging a uniformly convergent series. It offers a deeper understanding of the elegant and powerful Adomian decomposition method for solving nonlinear ordinary and partial differential equations, which are of paramount importance in modeling natural phenomena and man‐made device performance parameters.
Understanding the time dimension in resource management
Authors: Walter Stefan
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The paper's aim is to present a concrete approach of understanding economic time and how acceleration might be controlled based on the application of operation logics of social systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the reasoning of an indicator that reflects acceleration/deceleration in the economic system and based on the economy's operation logic, a correlation analysis has been undertaken where interest rate and inflation rate statistics from Sweden, Finland and Russia are combined with statistics of roundwood logging from the three countries.

Findings

Analysis shows that a confiding environment of the economic system is needed for the control measure to work. Furthermore, given that for complex systems control is limited, not only the question whether control is possible is important but also whether this possibility is probable.

Practical implications

Informs policy makers about the need to maintain a confiding and trustful environment for the economic system to maintain control possibilities.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the research on the management of time and acceleration, the management of the economic system in general and the wider sustainable development discourse.
A value‐based pricing system for strategic co‐branding goods
Authors: Chang Wei‐Lun
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to propose a novel pricing system for co‐branding goods by utilizing perceived value, which employs prospect theory (PT) and mental accounting to acquire the consumer's perceived value and to estimate an appropriate price.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken is design science, an artifact of automatic pricing system for co‐branding goods.

Findings

The results reveal that PT is superior to expected utility theory in terms of adjusted perceived prices and decision weight probabilities.

Practical implications

This paper aims to provide clues for industries in terms of providing a customer‐centric pricing method, systematic and automatic approach, and pricing‐based strategic information system.

Originality/value

The proposed pricing method: applies value‐based method to estimate the co‐brand price, considers risk and real‐world decision making, provides an efficient and effective approach, and enhances the competitiveness of price through the system.
The grey extent analysis
Authors: Çakir Ozan
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The aim is to present a novel approach for tackling multi‐attribute decision problems with using concepts from grey system theory and the extent analysis method.

Design/methodology/approach

Underlying judgment set of a multi‐attribute decision problem is modeled with employing grey numbers. Fundamental principles for comparing a set of grey numbers are established. A procedure for evaluating the decision alternatives is explained in detail and referred to as “The grey extent analysis”.

Findings

It is shown that the proposed procedure can be used as a decision‐making tool where the judgments of the decision maker are not exact (i.e. in terms of grey system terminology they are not “white”).

Research limitations/implications

The grey numbers utilized are assumed to be asynchronous and uniformly distributed over their domain.

Originality/value

The extent analysis is well studied as an evaluation tool under a fuzzy system. This study is set apart from the previous extent analysis research for two reasons: this paper provides basic guidelines for applying the extent analysis procedure within a grey system; the (grey) number comparison principles are totally different.
Emerging order in CAS theory: mapping some perspectives
Authors: Wallis Steven E.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The aim is to investigate the state of complex adaptive system (CAS) theory in the organizational theory literature and to provide a map for future studies of CAS theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Abstracts were searched via electronic database and a range of recently published (1996‐2004) books and articles were identified that contained a relatively concise description of CAS. Content analysis is used to deconstruct the CAS descriptions into “component concepts.” Those concepts are analyzed from multiple viewpoints.

Findings

There is no single, shared, sense of CAS theory. Differing understandings of CAS theory are identified based on “expert version” and “most popularly identified concepts.” Also, differences and similarities are identified between an “academic” version of CAS and a version developed by those who are influenced by both academic learning and practical experience.

Research limitations/implications

Study is limited to concise definitions of CAS, so could be improved by including more lengthy conversations. Additionally, study is limited to organizational theory, so may be less applicable in other disciplines.

Practical implications

When working within a CAS framework, academics should specify their CAS perspective to improve clarity of their work. When using a CAS framework to study organizations, researchers should include a comprehensive suite of concepts. Though not described in depth, no effective application of CAS for organizational change were found.

Originality/value

For those who study CAS theory and theory of theory, this paper provides an important benchmark by identifying a bifurcation in the evolution of CAS theory.
Cybernetics and e‐democracy
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Design/methodology/approach

A discussion in the CYBCOM discussion list, on possible revision of the definition and nomenclature of cybernetics, is reviewed and discussed, as are also certain proposals for enhancement of existing systems of parliamentary democracy, indicated by e‐democracy.

Findings

It is argued that the term “governance” has vagueness and that its use in a definition of cybernetics does lead to clarification. Wiener's reference to “control” is defended, with the observation that it should be realised in loops‐within‐loops, contrary to some treatments emphasising simple circularity. It is observed that principles of e‐democracy are cogently defended by several writers.

Practical implications

Reference to “governance” highlights a need to be clear about the aims of government in general. Proposals for e‐democracy deserve serious consideration.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
New perspectives for research and development
Authors: Rudall B.H. , Mann C.J.H.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to review current developments in the fields of systems, cybernetics and management sciences that are being harnessed to meet some of the needs of the present‐day society.

Design/methodology/approach

A general review and survey of selected research and development topics.

Findings

The paper illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary nature of cybernetics, systems and management sciences.

Practical implications

The choice of reviews provides an awareness of the current trends in these areas of endeavour.

Originality/value

The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of present‐day research and development initiatives.
Understanding project complexity: implications on project management
Authors: Vidal Ludovic‐Alexandre , Marle Franck
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better identify, define and model complexity within the field of project management in order to manage better under conditions of complexity (and manage better complexity‐induced risks).

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review enlightens the lack of consensus on project complexity and thus provides a broad view and a critical analysis of the underlying concepts. A project complexity framework and definition are then proposed. After underlining the stakes of project complexity in accordance with these proposals, a project complexity model is then built notably due to systems analysis.

Findings

Proposal of standard project complexity framework and definition. Proposal of a synthesis of the relationships between the concepts of project uncertainty and project complexity. Proposal of a project complexity model (and validation due to industrial application).

Research limitations/implications

The literature review and project complexity framework tries to be exhaustive even though it is likely to be completed. The final version of the model is still to be computed and tested.

Practical implications

Avoiding confusion when defining and managing a complex project, particularly between project team members (and as a consequence improving communication and information sharing), improves the assessment of the propagation of a change within the project.

Originality/value

The paper proposes an original framework and a definition of project complexity. The complexity model permits the navigation from any element of the project to any other (when detail is needed) and is, as a consequence, original and complementary with traditional project management models and tools.
Healthy organizations: toward a diagnostic method
Authors: Iván Tarride Mario , Ariel Zamorano R. , Nicolás Varela S. , Julia González M.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose, from the way in which an allopathic physician makes a diagnosis of a person's health, an organizational diagnosis metaphor that can contribute in the search for an increasingly more integral way of qualifying an organization as healthy.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach is essentially functional and is based on the cybernetics of W.R. Ashby with respect to the concept of a model and especially on “iso‐” and “homomorphisms.” In this way, similarities are found between the behavior of the components observed by the physician in a person, according to his diagnostic guidelines, and the functioning of an organization.

Findings

The paper finds that various authors recognize the value and power of the use of metaphors, following the spirit of L.V. Bertalanffy, in the search for a better understanding of the organizational phenomenon, particularly that of human health, including the definition of the World Health Organization, from which a way is proposed here to understand a healthy organization and a general model of organizational diagnosis. It is estimated that one of the most significant finding made so far is the need to formalize structurally dependencies meant to apply “organizational awareness” as a way of permanently reflecting on the organization, helping its members to distinguish what belongs to the person and what belongs to the emergent phenomenon called organization, a task that until now is done partially, considering only some actors and at some points in time. Strategic planning, coaching higher executives, and empowerment of employees have gone in that direction, but still show insufficient efforts.

Research limitations/implications

The work done so far has consisted in the theoretical development of homomorphism and some applications about which it is not yet possible make a report because of their scarcity. However, this method of work has made it possible to refeed the initial model and make some adjustments according to the divergencies seen between the theoretical and the practical. Consequently, this is a proposal that requires discussion – the purpose of this communication – and further experimentation that may lead to its eventual validation.

Practical implications

The proposal of a general model for making organizational diagnoses.

Originality/value

Some degree of originality is considered with respect to known work, because the idea is to articulate a model having an integral character that allows an organization to be qualified as healthy, trying to go beyond partial views that attributed that condition to organizations that were seen from a particular perspective, such as the health of its workers or its economic‐financial performance.
Text organization via projection from researcher‐space onto text‐space
Authors: Tayefeh Mahmoudi Maryam , Badie Kambiz , Kharrat Mahmood
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new approach for organizing texts for researchers based on projection from researcher space (consisting of reasoning ability and research ability) onto text space (consisting of text features).

Design/methodology/approach

The projection from researcher space onto text space is performed on the grounds of the differences between the sets of essential text features which are consistent, respectively, for the reasoning ability (as researcher's existing ability) and the research ability (as researcher's desired ability) using the concept of a dependency graph.

Findings

Through the projection from researcher space onto text space, one can expect to find an effective text which can help a person with certain reasoning ability acquire a certain research ability in the related domain.

Research limitations/implications

Acquisition of reasoning ability (ies) may call for a comprehensive questionnaire or test protocol whose validation by the expert may not necessarily be convenient. Appropriate questionnaires/test protocols, as well as knowledge‐based models for the text features at different layers (to assure derivation of more reliable features), is suggested as future work.

Practical implications

A salient benefit of the proposed approach is its flexibility in responding to a wide range of users with different models. It thus can be used as an efficient tool for online e‐learning and e‐research purposes in cyber‐learning environment.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper mostly lies in the concept of projection from researcher space onto text space as an approach for provision of appropriate text features; and the application of dependency graph as a potential means for identifying those text features whose prerequisites exist in the research abilities of the researcher.
Solution of the two dimensional second biharmonic equation with high‐order accuracy
Authors: Dehghan Mehdi , Mohebbi Akbar
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce efficient methods for solving the 2D biharmonic equation with Dirichlet boundary conditions of second kind. This equation describes the deflection of loaded plate with boundary conditions of simply supported plate kind. Also it can be derived from the calculus of variations combined with the variational principle of minimum potential energy. Because of existing fourth derivatives in this equation, introducing high‐order accurate methods need to use artificial points. Also solving the resulted linear system of equations suffers from slow convergence when iterative methods are used. This paper aims to introduce efficient methods to overcome these problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers several compact finite difference approximations that are derived on a nine‐point compact stencil using the values of the solution and its second derivatives as the unknowns. In these approximations there is no need to define special formulas near the boundaries and boundary conditions can be incorporated with these techniques. Several iterative linear systems solvers such as Krylov subspace and multigrid methods and their combination (with suitable preconditioner) have been developed to compare the efficiency of each method and to design powerful solvers.

Findings

The paper finds that the combination of compact finite difference schemes with multigrid method and Krylov iteration methods preconditioned by multigrid have excellent results for the second biharmonic equation, and that Krylov iteration methods preconditioned by multigrid are the most efficient methods.

Originality/value

The paper is of value in presenting, via some tables and figures, some numerical experiments which resulted from applying new methods on several test problems, and making comparison with conventional methods.
Solutions to the problem of prey and predator and the epidemic model via differential transform method
Authors: Suat Erturk Vedat , Momani Shaher
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to solve both the prey and predator problem and the problem of the spread of a non‐fatal disease in a population which is assumed to have constant size over the period of the epidemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The differential transform method (DTM) is employed to compute an approximation to the solutions of the systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations of these problems.

Findings

Results obtained using the scheme presented here agree well with the results obtained by the Adomian decomposition and power series methods. Some plots are presented to show the reliability and simplicity of the method.

Originality/value

This paper is believed to represent a new application for DTM on solving systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations.
Solution of population balance equations via rationalized Haar functions
Authors: Alipanah Amjad , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to solve the population balance equations, by applying rationalized Haar functions, described by stretched differential equation.

Design/methodology/approach

An illustrative example is given and numerical results are compared with Block‐Pulse, Wavelet‐Galerkin and Shifted‐Legendre methods.

Findings

The results show the superiority of this method in comparison with the Block‐Pulse and the weighted residual methods.

Originality/value

The paper is of value in introducing the scaled operation matrix and also the method is straightforward and suitable for digital computation.
An exponential smoothing model for predicting traffic in the library and at the reference desk
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad , Dileepan Parthasarati , Murgai Sarla R. , Roth Wendy
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a mathematical model that can be used to forecast the number of individuals who enter the library as well as the number of patrons that seek assistance at the reference desk of the library. An accurate estimate of demand at the reference desk is valuable for effective staffing decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

An exponential smoothing model (Winter's model) was developed for forecasting. Data were gathered at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for an entire year. Using these data, an exponential smoothing model was formulated for forecasting the number of patrons seeking assistance. Since the data showed no trend but the presence of two seasonality factors, one for the week‐of‐the‐semester effect and one for the day‐of‐the‐week effect, the Winter's method appeared to be best suited. The Winter's method develops a formula from the data and allows the formula to be continuously fine‐tuned as new observations come in day after day.

Findings

The modified Winter's exponential smoothing model proved to be a good predictor of the number of patrons seeking assistance. In spite of large natural random variability present in the data, the actual values seem to follow the forecasts very closely.

Originality/value

It is vital to be able to forecast the number of clients at the reference desk that seek assistance per day. The modified exponential smoothing model is a valuable tool for such forecasting.
Collection building barter: a proposal
Authors: Marcum James W.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at the sustainability of collections within libraries and suggest a means for maintaining this.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes a system of bartering with libraries offering those elements of their collection which are rarely used if at all to those who might be able to use them. It suggests that this might be done through a system of trading dollars.

Findings

The paper suggests that bartering might be a way of adding lasting value to print collections.

Originality/value

The paper suggests a system of bartering which could add lasting value to the print collections of libraries.
Advocating and mooching: practical savings plans
Authors: Steele Kirstin
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to share practical ideas about acquiring more and varied library resources in spite of a flat budget.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports The Citadel's efforts to do numerous things to reinforce the importance of library materials as well as a library building.

Findings

The paper reports that these networking efforts, including mandatory library instruction in first‐year experience courses, have borne good karma and might even lead to increased book money. In a continuing quest for open‐source alternatives to paid subscriptions, web‐based services were found to augment the collection and perhaps even supplant a few purchases. Additionally, serendipity has revealed outside help in the form of LSTA grants and cooperative collection development.

Originality/value

The paper shares practical ideas about acquiring more and varied library resources when holding a low budget.
Getting onto the agenda
Authors: Linn Mott
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to argue that when managing strategically it is important to consider how to get one's priorities onto the institution's agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses and gives examples to illustrate why and how one would get an issue onto an institution's agenda.

Findings

The paper suggests that, in advancing the library's issues, it is helpful to determine methods of getting on the governing body's agenda.

Practical implications

This paper provides concepts to be considered when a manager attempts to move a library's priorities forward.

Original/value

Hopefully, this paper will motivate librarians to think strategically when working to advance their library's interests.
Time management part I: goal setting as a planning tool
Authors: Fitsimmons Gary
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to establish the leadership quality of good time management as the second of the “leadership performance standards” introduced in the first installment of this column and begins with proper goal setting as a powerful time management and planning tool.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper introduces planning as the first key to good time management, and then establishes the place of goal setting in the planning process. It covers personal work goal setting and setting goals for subordinates.

Findings

The paper finds that career goal‐setting can be used effectively as a time‐management tool to aid in departmental and organizational goal‐setting and planning.

Originality/value

The value of using this approach is in more fulfilled employees offering more effective service.
23 Things and more
Authors: Maxymuk John
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at social networking aspects of Web 2.0 and how they might relate to libraries and library education.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at The 23 Things, a focus of the Public Library of Charlotte and Meckenburg County in North Carolina's (PLCMC's) learning program for librarians, which focused on two or three new things to discover and learn about each week. The paper looks at various sites that might be useful to the librarian.

Findings

The paper suggests that the PLCMC's process represents a path that all librarians should follow.

Originality/value

The paper presents a variety of sites that are useful tools for the librarian.
Issues in library human resources management
Authors: Kieserman Robert H.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the rules and regulations for using independent contractors in a library setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the personal expertise of the author who has been a professor of human resources management as well as a library consultant to all types of libraries for over 15 years.

Findings

The importance of treating independent contractors very differently from employees is emphasized. The paper provides a step‐by‐step guideline on the compliance issues by which every library and independent contractor must abide to guarantee a legitimate relationship in the eyes of the Internal Revenue Service.

Originality/value

This paper helps the library director and the library department manager more intelligently use independent contractors within the operation of a library organization.