bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ELAG 2002: report of a library systems seminar on the Semantic Web
Authors: Goossens Paula
Published: February 2004

The 26th annual seminar of the European Library Automation Group (ELAG) was held in Rome in April 2002. This report provides an overview of the papers presented, including those describing relevant developments in Italy (such as the Italian Digital Library), those covering the theme of the seminar (semantic Web and libraries), as well as papers on functional requirements for bibliographic records and others. Workshops are a key feature of the ELAG seminars and a brief mention is made of these.
The effectiveness of stemming for information retrieval in Amharic
Authors: Alemayehu Nega , Willett Peter
Published: February 2004

Amharic is an example of a language with a very rich morphology, which means that systems for searching Amharic text databases can be effective in operation only if full account is taken of the many word variants that may occur. This paper reports a comparison of stem‐based and root‐based searching of Amharic text with conventional, word‐based searching. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our recently described stemming algorithm for Amharic.
Comparative study of selected essential and non‐essential metals in various canned and raw foodstuffs consumed in Pakistan
Authors: Waheed Abdul , Jaffar M. , Masud Khalid
Published: February 2004

Levels of selected essential metals (Cu, Fe and Zn) and non‐essential metals (Cd and Pb) were determined by the wet digestion based atomic absorption flame spectrophotometric method in twenty canned foodstuffs of local and foreign origin. The study revealed that on average, the concentrations of Fe, Cd and Pb in local foodstuff were more than those found in imported canned products. The contents of Fe and Pb in local canned food were almost double that of the counterpart imported versions. Analysis of the construction materials of the tins indicated that some metals, such as Pb, had levels twice as high as those found in the foreign tin containers. The results showed that the Cu concentration in various foodstuffs ranged between 0.04 and 8.88mg/kg, Fe between 3.07 and 126mg/kg, Zn between 0.19 and 22.8mg/kg, Cd between 0.15 and 1.16mg/kg and Pb between 0.11 and 2.04mg/kg. The results are compared with the levels of metals in corresponding data from the literature.
OCLC and the emerging worldwide library co‐operative
Authors: Jordan Jay
Published: February 2004

Traces the history of OCLC’s development as an international organization, reviews current activities around the world and describes evolving strategies for globalization of the OCLC co‐operative.
Necromancy or life support? Libraries, democracy and the concerned intellectual
Authors: Byrne Alex
Published: February 2004

Examines the roles of libraries and their development. Their part in fostering and supporting intellectuals in contemporary societies is discussed with particular emphasis on free access to information and freedom of expression. From the nineteenth century, libraries became recognised as necessary to society. In recent years, libraries have increasingly been seen as an instrument for the development and maintenance of a democratic society which offers the individual access to a wide and varied range or knowledge, ideas and opinions. The ubiquity of the Internet and other media and their promise of universal access to information “regardless of frontiers” have reinforced the democracy paradigm. In fulfilling a function of sustaining the discourse of concerned intellectuals, libraries demonstrate their importance to humanity.
Management musings 11: measurement vs. performance
Authors: Line Maurice B.
Published: February 2004

Discusses performance measurement in libraries and the need to consider what it represents. Attention is drawn to the danger of over‐measurement.
Diversity matters 2: share our vision
Authors: Owen David
Published: February 2004

Describes the work of the UK’s Share the Vision and the need to consider those who are visually impaired when planning library services. Draws attention to sources of advice and information on this topic.
Continuing professional development and workplace learning 2: CPD and you – how CILIP is meeting the continuing professional development needs of its members
Authors: Simmonds Penny
Published: February 2004

Describes the work of CILIP – the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals – and its contribution to the professional development of its members.
HapticMaster – a generic force controlled robot for human interaction
Authors: van der Linde R.Q. , Lammertse P.
Published: February 2004

This paper describes the technical principles of a high‐performance force controlled robot, called the HapticMaster. It is designed as a generic platform for applications with human interaction. Therefore, it differs significantly from most industrial robots on the one hand, whereas it also differs from most haptic interfaces on the other hand due to its power. An admittance control paradigm is used, which facilitates a high joint stiffness in combination with high force sensitivity. Typical applications for the HapticMaster are found in virtual reality, haptics research, and robot rehabilitation.
Technologies for haptic displays in teleoperation
Authors: Monkman G.J. , Egersdörfer S. , Meier A. , Böse H. , Baumann M. , Ermert H. , Kahled W. , Freimuth H.
Published: February 2004

Since the 1960s many alphanumeric to tactile data conversion methods have been investigated, mainly with the ultimate aim of assisting the blind. More recently, interest has been directed toward the display of pictures on haptically explorable surfaces – tactile imaging – for a range of medical, remote sensing and entertainment purposes. This paper examines the technologies which have been utilised for haptically explorable tactile displays over the past three decades, focussing on those which appear commercially viable in the immediate future.
Haptic communication for mobile robot operations
Authors: Barnes Dave , Counsell Mike
Published: February 2004

Teleoperations in hazardous environments are often hampered by the lack of available information regarding the state of the remote robotic device. Typically, ideal camera placements are not possible, and an operator is left with the problem of performing complex manoeuvres in the presence of severe blind‐spots. To address this dilemma, we have been investigating the use of a haptic interface, which not only allows an operator to communicate motion commands to a robot, but also allows the robot to communicate to the operator its motion when performing autonomous collision avoidance. This haptic interface provides total operator control, plus vital information that can be used to decide if and how a robot's autonomous operation should be overridden. This paper details our work in this area and presents the results we have obtained from operator/task performance experimentation with this new haptic communication approach.
A family of co‐robotic surgical set‐ups
Authors: Cepolina Francesco , Michelini Rinaldo C.
Published: February 2004

The paper describes co‐robotic devices, aiming at accomplishing surgical operations by remote overseeing and manipulation. The concept design of a modular layout is presented, assuring body penetration by curved and twisted paths, with minimal impact. The fixture develops as an articulated snake‐like forearm, carrying a wrist and the pertinent effectors; scalpels, scissors, sewing rigs, cameras, etc. The fixture is a good example of a micro electro mechanical system, with force‐actuation and shape‐control being intrinsic properties. Different options are studied and the related basic operational characteristics are summarised and compared. The jointed forearm might include one to six blocks. Specifically, task‐oriented end‐effectors are considered, e.g. a self‐operating sewing rig, able to operate with a single thread. The robot co‐operation will drastically modify surgery practice, giving freedom from anthropocentric bounds; the paper introduces such opportunities, with comments on typical control strategies and hints on actual performance, inferred by testing on virtual reality and digital mock‐ups.
Miniature pipe robots
Authors: Pan Zengxi , Zhu Zhenqi
Published: February 2004

The inspection and maintenance of small pipes with diameter of 1 in. or below are important tasks given the crucial role of these pipes in various applications, including power plants, nuclear facilities, and underwater systems. Miniature pipe robots (MPRs) are moving vehicles that could take the inspection sensors to the required place inside the pipelines. In this paper, the state‐of‐the‐art researches on MPRs are reviewed. Important design considerations are presented while introducing existing successful designs. The future work of MPRs is also outlined.
Model‐based robot teleoperation with haptic interface
Authors: Yoon Woo‐Keun , Tsumaki Yuichi , Uchiyama Masaru
Published: February 2004

An experimental teleoperation system for space robotics has been developed. The purpose of using this system is the development of space robot teleoperation technologies which can replace the skills of an astronaut. Communication time delay is one of the biggest problems encountered by teleoperation of a space robot from the ground. To solve the time delay, we proposed a mixed force and motion command‐based space robot teleoperation system that is a model‐based teleoperation. Moreover, we have also developed a compact six‐DOF haptic interface as a master device. The effectiveness of our model‐based teleoperation technologies was verified by carrying out some tasks in a real space robotic system: the Engineering Test Satellite VII (ETS‐VII).
Exoskeletons for human force augmentation
Authors: Brown M. , Tsagarakis N. , Caldwell D.G.
Published: February 2004

This paper reviews the current status of devices for use as exoskeletons for assisting or constraining human movements. Applications include teleoperation and force augmentation to allow people to operate more easily or more efficiently in a variety of situations, including military and emergency service applications.
“It's the situation I'm in”: the importance of managerial context to effectiveness
Authors: Page Carole , Wilson Marie , Meyer Denny , Inkson Kerr
Published: February 2004

Most research in managerial effectiveness, or competence, focuses upon personal attributes of the individual. This understates the impact of context, which can assist or hinder job performance. A national (New Zealand) survey assessed the impact of 16 environmental variables, four management development variables and two variables reflecting personal skills and abilities, on the ability to be effective as a manager. Analysis revealed eight factors explaining the majority of perceived management effectiveness. The results suggest that support in a variety of forms is a key influence on the ability to be effective as a manager, with particular emphasis on the role of supervisors and subordinates, as well as organisational culture. Organisational level and organisational size interacted with contextual factors. The overall results suggest that, like other employees, managers are more likely to see both their success and hindrances as a function of their environment.
Managing diversity using a strategic planned change approach
Authors: Friday Earnest , Friday Shawnta S.
Published: February 2004

Many organizations have implemented various types of initiatives within the last few decades in an effort to deal with diversity. A possible missing vinculum (link) between how an organization deals with diversity and its impact on the bottomline is a corporate diversity strategy that is executed using a planned change approach to systemically manage diversity. While many organizations have implemented a corporate diversity strategy, most have not used a “planned change‐corporate diversity strategy”. The lack of a “planned change‐corporate diversity strategy” is quite likely to inhibit managing diversity from becoming systemic to an organization's culture and its way of doing business, thus tending to disallow the potential benefits of diversity to be maximized. Hence, this paper offers a framework for using a “planned change‐corporate diversity strategy” to: progress along the “diversity continuum” starting with acknowledging to valuing, and ultimately to managing diversity; and systemically managing diversity using a eight‐step “managing diversity process”.
Developing future energy performance standards for UK housing: The St Nicholas Court project – Part 1
Authors: Lowe Robert , Bell Malcolm , Roberts David
Published: February 2004

This paper (and Part 2, to appear in the next issue) set out the results of a housing field trial designed to evaluate the impact of an enhanced energy performance standard for dwellings. The project was designed to inform the next review of Part L of the Building Regulations for England and Wales, which, following the publication of the UK government's white paper on energy policy, is expected in 2005. The project explores the implications of an enhanced standard in the context of timber frame construction. Although for programming reasons it was necessary to terminate the research project at the end of the design phase, the results suggest that the standard investigated is well within the capacity of the industry but it was clear that the whole supply chain will need to take a positive approach to the development of new solutions. The secret to a smooth and cost optimised transition is for the necessary development work to begin immediately, not when regulation changes.
New working practice and office space density: a comparison of Australia and the UK
Authors: Warren Clive M.J.
Published: February 2004

The growth of facilities management has brought with it a greater emphasis on the way in which we use office space. The drive for greater economic efficiency has resulted in more intense use of offices and the introduction of new office practices. This paper compares the effect of new office practices on office densities in both Australia and the UK. Comparing the office use across a range of organisation functions and use categories, it provides a framework for future performance measures within the selected markets and wider comparison of office space globally and, as such, establishes a foundation for the development of strategic asset plans based on clear measured objectives.
A low‐cost maintenance approach to high‐rise flats
Authors: Shabha Ghasson
Published: February 2004

During the 1960s, thousands of high‐ and medium‐rise single sided corridor blocks were designed and constructed using prefabricated concrete cladding systems. Most were characterised by inferior quality material and poor workmanship, poor supervision and inadequate environmental services which subsequently deteriorated to a state of disrepair. The main culprits were condensation, water ingress and cold bridging effects owing to low energy efficiency standards and lack of thermal insulation. It was initially contemplated that at the end of their life span these problems would be remedied by adopting “high‐tech” components involving composite cladding methods and highly automated environmental services to improve the operational efficiency and optimise their long‐term durability and life cost cycle. However, the cost has proved to be beyond client affordability. Meeting the requirements of today’s users and the current building regulations necessitated rethinking of the whole process; and alternative cost‐effective maintenance and energy efficient approaches had to be developed. This paper critically evaluates the approach to low‐cost maintenance and refurbishment of high‐rise buildings in parts of Birmingham, UK.
Cosenza hierarchical analysis model for the performance assessment of office buildings
Authors: Rheingantz Paulo A.
Published: February 2004

This paper explains the results of a doctoral thesis in production engineering and presents a tool for the qualitative evaluation of office buildings performance, using the Cosenza hierarchical analysis model (HAM). This embodies the principles of the complex thought of Edgar Morin, of fuzzy sets approach and of linguistic variables use. Starting from a group of regular attributes, HAM confronts, in one single operation, the competing forces of space and building facilities by different organizations with the supply of a group of buildings. The results of the simulation confirm the effectiveness of a tool that links manageability to a formal representation of a subjective decision‐making processes, based on environment‐behaviour aspects. Whilst confronting different organizational demands with the supply of a group of buildings, this model makes possible rapid decision making and the identification of a supply profile for the purpose of acquisition.
Mobile working with Connexions
Authors: Watson Ian , Lightfoot David Joseph
Published: February 2004

This paper presents a definition of mobile working. The paper looks at mobile and remote working and then the benefits are of these forms of working. It also outlines the limitations of mobile and remote working. The paper goes on to detail the type of mobile working used by Connexions (an organisation that formerly titled the Tyne and Wear Careers Service) what hardware and software are used by the company and how it is used. The paper concludes by identifying what the future holds for Connexions with this form of working. It argues that the staff expectations are not fully met by the technology now available.
Hedonic estimation of income multipliers
Authors: Janssen Christian T.L.
Published: February 2004

Income multipliers are commonly used in the valuation of income streams. All income dollars, however, are not alike, and investors make distinctions based on the nature and source of the income. The income multiplier is adjusted for the characteristics of the investment. The present study deals with major apartment buildings and concerns the estimation of income multipliers from market observations. Regression analysis is used to estimate the gross and net income multipliers, as well as adjustments for differences in property features, zoning aspects, and economic conditions. The multipliers are then used in the valuation of two subject properties. An important issue is reconciling the estimates when the two multipliers lead to somewhat different values. The sample consists of high‐rise buildings in the West End area of downtown Vancouver, Canada, but the approach is general and widely applicable.
Politics and image in the organizational landscape
Authors: Vigoda‐Gadot Eran , Vinarski‐Peretz Hedva , Ben‐Zion Eyal
Published: February 2004

This paper reports on two separate studies (S1,n= 169; S2,n= 224) that were designed to examine the relationship between organizational image, perceptions of workplace politics, and an additional set of job related variables (i.e. job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and job autonomy). The paper suggests that perceptions of politics have never been examined in relation to organizational image, despite the fact that both concepts are closely related to more general ideas of climate and atmosphere in and around the workplace. For this purpose, a structural equation modeling with LISREL 8.30 was used to compare three alternative models in each of the studies. Findings reveal that the first model, where perceptions of politics function as antecedents of satisfaction and commitment that have an impact on organizational image, fitted the data best. The article concludes that perceptions of politics may have an important initial impact on the formation of organizational image via other job attitudes. Relevant implications for future studies in this area are discussed.
An exploration of the relationship between emotional intelligence and leadership potential
Authors: Higgs Malcolm , Aitken Paul
Published: February 2004

This research note explores the extent to which the claims for the importance of emotional intelligence as a predictor of leadership potential are borne out. The paper reports the results of an exploratory study of a leadership development centre in which participants also completed an established measure of emotional intelligence – the EIQ Managerial. The sample comprised 40 senior managers working within the New Zealand Public Service (NZPS). The results provide some evidence to support the relationships between EI and leadership potential asserted from both a theoretical standpoint and from other studies of leadership performance. The limitations of sample size are clearly identified. The results do however, indicate that further research using both larger and more diverse samples may be warranted.
Reflections on the integration of paid work and the rest of life
Authors: Lewis Suzan , Rapoport Rhona , Gambles Richenda
Published: February 2004

Despite a wealth of research and policy initiatives on “work‐family”, “work‐life balance” or what we prefer to call work‐personal life integration, societies seem stuck about how to make equitable, satisfactory and sustainable changes in the ways in which paid work can be combined with the rest of life. So what is holding back satisfactory change? And how can people move beyond this apparent deadlock in workplaces and other institutions and really go forward? This paper looks at some of the reasons why issues about work‐personal life integration have become so pressing and then reflects on implications for working towards more fundamental changes at many different levels. It highlights sticking points holding back change and argues that these could be developed into new levers for change by emphasising the need to rethink and question many deeply held – but outdated – assumptions about working practices, families, culture and personal lives.
The challenges of implementing quality in the Irish hotel industry
Authors: Keating Mary , Harrington Denis
Published: February 2004

This paper reviews the literature on the implementation of quality programs in the Irish hotel industry. Through a review of the literature in service quality, empowerment, and strategy implementation, key issues that affect the achievement of quality are identified. Many quality programs fail from lack of commitment on the part of senior management, middle management, and front‐line employees. Quality management is focused on involvement, communication, and teamwork; but studies show that the management of quality in contemporary hospitality organisations is lacking in these dimensions. The integrative nature of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) model for business excellence might provide a useful framework for quality implementation in Irish hotels, and it is concluded that further research should be conducted to consider the potential of such frameworks in an Irish context.
Preparation and characterisation of re‐dispersible acrylic powders
Authors: Umiński M. , Saija L.M.
Published: February 2004

A comparison of the difference in chemical nature of re‐dispersible polymer powders useful for the modification of cement based compositions is made. Core‐shell acrylic lattices synthesised by multi‐step sequential polymerisation are formulated and spray‐dried to obtain re‐dispersible powders. The heterogeneous acrylic copolymers prepared are characterised by excellent re‐dispersibility, high chemical stability and good application properties.
Preparation and characterisation of pigmented UV curable coating based on cresol novalac epoxy acrylate resins
Authors: Bajpai M. , Shukla V.
Published: February 2004

UV curable systems have found wide applications in clear coatings. However, coatings containing pigment showed a degree of curing inhibition due to the absorption, scattering and reflection of the UV radiation caused by the presence of pigments in the coating film. This results in poor through‐cure and consequently in poor adhesion. Thus, pigments used in the UV curable coating systems should not absorb radiation in the same region as the photo‐initiators. One of the solutions to such a problem, reported in this paper, was to develop more reactive, alcohol soluble, non‐heat reactive, low molecular weight cresol based, pigmented novolac epoxy acrylate systems, which have a lower absorption in the UV region. In addition, the effects of several photoinitiators having absorption in the longer wavelength region of the UV spectrum were investigated.
Accounting for biodiversity: operationalising environmental accounting
Authors: Jones Michael John
Published: February 2004

This study seeks to operationalise the reporting of corporate natural assets (i.e. habitats, flora and fauna). A natural inventory model is used, building on existing methodology. This study significantly extends the prior research by considering environmental accounting in the context of a large site and by using a UK publicly listed company, Hyder plc. The research finds that the methodology is generally applicable. Data were available to identify and value ten important habitats. Moreover, data were present for critical species (especially birds and mammals), and for flora and fauna on critical habitats. However, for some non‐critical species, data, particularly population data, was problematic. The potential benefits of the natural inventory model are substantial, the costs are modest.
The railway mania of 1845‐1847: Market irrationality or collusive swindle based on accounting distortions?
Authors: McCartney S. , Arnold A.J.
Published: February 2004

The wild boom and slump of 1845‐1847 was the most important of the nineteenth century railway manias, in terms both of its scale and effects on the economy as a whole. It has almost invariably been seen as a market irrationality, a view fundamentally challenged by Bryer’s theorisation of it as a deliberate and collusive device of the “London wealthy”, aided by central government, to swindle provincial middle class investors. This analysis also greatly extended previous perspectives on the rôle of accounting by asserting that accounting practices were crucial to the success of the process and were thus “deeply implicated” in a great, class‐based swindle. The acceptance of such a perspective would have important implications for the way we understand the functioning of accounting and capitalism in the mid‐nineteenth century, but this paper instead argues that such notions are misconceived, looking to both the evidence that was available when Bryer’s paper was written and to recently collected data on the depreciation accounting practices of the time.
Understanding the dynamics of the Australian accounting profession: A prosopographical study of the founding members of the Incorporated Institute of Accountants, Victoria, 1886 to 1908
Authors: Carnegie Garry D. , Edwards John Richard , West Brian P.
Published: February 2004

Numerous studies have examined the institutional setting of accounting as a professional occupation. However, institutional deeds and outcomes derive from the behaviour of individual actors, particularly those key players who drive the creation, policy development and outlook of practitioner associations. Recognising this, and in search of a more detailed understanding of the dynamics of professional formation, this study applies the prosopographical method of inquiry to accounting development in Australia during the period 1886 to 1908. Motives and actions are identified with the founding members of the Incorporated Institute of Accountants, Victoria, during this formative era, which saw key personalities transfer their allegiance to the Australasian Corporation of Public Accountants. The beliefs, preferences and ambitions of individual participants are shown to exert significant influence over the process of professional formation, highlighting the capacity of prosopographical studies to augment the predominantly vocational and institutional focus of the prior sociology of professions literature.
Accounting for change: professional status, gender disadvantage and self‐employment
Authors: Marlow Susan , Carter Sara
Published: February 2004

Research investigating female self‐employment has often highlighted gender‐based differences in the performance of women‐owned firms. Some studies have linked the under‐performance of women‐owned firms to the lower levels of capitalisation used at business inception, associating this with disadvantages accrued in waged work and occupational segregation more generally. Drawing on this association, there has been a tendency to treat self‐employed women as an undifferentiated group, failing to recognise heterogeneity therein. Considers the impact of the possession of professional qualifications on self‐employment and to what degree they might have the potential to mobilise substantial business capital. The discussion explores the influence of gender in the work and career experiences of women and whether the advantages accrued from professional status might challenge gender disadvantage within self‐employment. Results are presented from an exploratory study of male‐owned and female‐owned accountants in independent practice, which suggest that gender disadvantage persists, even within the context of professional practice.
Participation in the workplace: gender perspectives from Bangladesh
Authors: Andaleeb Syed S. , Vanneman Wolford Gretchen
Published: February 2004

Studies on participation in organizational decision making in the context of developing countries are limited, especially from a gender perspective. Based on a survey of government and private sector employees in Dhaka, Bangladesh, this study explores the extent to which women have been integrated in the workforce and how both genders perceive their participation in decision making. Organizational climate is perceived as healthy, while communication between the genders does not reflect major barriers or animosities. Yet, in the largely traditional male‐dominated organizational setting, it is interesting to note that while overt resistance to women has decreased, subtle hostilities continue to resonate. Such hostilities adversely affect perceived participation. A strain of conservatism also continues to exert some negative influence on perceived participation but mostly on women.
Digital economy and management in Spain
Authors: del Águila Ana R. , Padilla Antonio , Serarols Christian , Veciana José M.
Published: February 2004

The digital economy is an economic sector that includes goods and services, whose development, manufacturing, merchandising or supply depend on critical digital technologies. The digital economy can be conceptualized into four different subsectors; on the one hand, it consists of infrastructure and applications and, on the other, electronic commerce and new intermediaries. This natural structure can be directly traced to how business generates revenues. The aim of this paper is to explain what is understood today by digital economy and to identify its dimensions and impact on the firm. For this purpose, it is necessary to develop its theoretical basis. In the second part of this paper, we refer to the results of an empirical research in the Spanish context.
Web site design benchmarking within industry groups
Authors: Kim Sung‐Eon , Shaw Thomas , Schneider Helmut
Published: February 2004

For corporations engaged in e‐commerce, the Web serves as their primary interface with customers. Consequently, quality Web site design is a critical success factor for corporations with an e‐commerce strategy. However, no comprehensive and coherent set of evaluation criteria exists that corporations and researchers can use to examine Web sites. This paper fills this gap by proposing Web site evaluation criteria and applying these criteria to different industry groups within Korea. Based on the literature survey, six categories of Web site evaluation criteria are defined: business function; corporation credibility; contents reliability; Web site attractiveness; systematic structure; and navigation. Using these criteria, Web sites in 12 industries were evaluated to determine if there are differences in Web site design between industries. The objective was to determine differences between industries which may provide information for benchmarking purposes. The results show significant differences in the design of Web sites across these different industry groups.
Impact of the high‐speed Internet on user behaviors: case study in Korea
Authors: Cho Sungbin , Byun Jae‐Ho , Sung Minje
Published: February 2004

The growth of Internet usage, spurred by rapidly advancing network technologies, has been bringing about broad changes in customer behaviors related to the Internet, attitudes toward the traditional mass media, and satisfaction. This study attempts to investigate what types of changes have been made in Korea due to the transition of the networking environment. According to the findings, Internet users with a high‐speed Internet service system tend to enjoy various kinds of services, including e‐mail, and depend less on the traditional media, such as TV and radio, for information and entertainment. They also have an increased level of satisfaction in the dimension of convenience.
Improving Internet archive service through proxy cache
Authors: Yu Hsiang‐Fu , Chen Yi‐Ming , Wang Shih‐Yong , Tseng Li‐Ming
Published: February 2004

Traditionally, file transfer protocol (FTP) servers are major archive providers and users apply the Archie server to locate FTP archives. With the extreme popularity of the WWW, Web servers are now important archive providers and users download archives via HTTP. To reduce HTTP traffic, proxy cache servers are deployed on the Internet. However, we find the hit rate of archives in cache servers is quite low. This study proposes a combination of caching and better searching mechanisms to alleviate the problem. We enable a proxy server to automatically collect WWW and FTP archives from its cache, organize them in the form of an FTP directory, and then offer the directory list to the Archie. Accordingly, users can find archives on WWW and FTP servers through the Archie, and they can directly download archives from the proxy server, thus improving the reuse of cached archives. A system was implemented and operated in a real environment to evaluate the approach and results are discussed.
The myth of the crisis in academic publishing
Authors: Abeles Tom P.
Published: February 2004

The high cost of academic journals has led researchers to seek alternative venues for both publishing and accessing scholarly research. The Internet will provide an appropriate vehicle once there is a model which is not a simple mapping of brick space into click space. This will require The Academy to apply knowledge management to their own practices.
The coming conflict between science and spirit
Authors: Halal William E.
Published: February 2004

This review of a fine book on recent advances in neuroscience shows that the field has successfully demonstrated the use of game theory and probability to model animal behavior. However, science may be claiming too much by contending that this approach explains away consciousness, will, and other qualities attributed to mind and spirit. A balanced assessment of evidence on both sides of this historic debate shows that it is impossible to resolve this issue now, but the results of this great social experiment can be expected by about 2020 when computer power matches the brain.
Digital loyalty networks: continuously connecting automakers with their customers and suppliers
Authors: Koudal Peter , Wellener Paul
Published: February 2004

Over the past two years, senior managers at several automotive companies have begun to implement a new business model called a digital loyalty network (DLN). The model enables companies in any industry to continuously collect and monitor their customer, product and supply chain data and more precisely adjust engineering, production, distribution and sales/marketing activities to meet current and future demand. Moreover, they can use the same data to enhance their partnership with suppliers. For example, GM has put in place a number of components of a digital loyalty network, including the implementation of an integrated network connecting the company with suppliers, alliance partners, dealers and customers. GM has also adopted a new formula for managing the order‐to‐delivery process, has launched Web‐portals for customers and suppliers and continues to enhance and support its OnStar system, which allows drivers to communicate on the road with GM customer service representatives and vendors. Digital loyalty networks have three components: (1) Digital – the companies use sophisticated information technologies to manage information more effectively; (2) Loyalty – the system is designed to target, satisfy, and retain the most profitable customers and, in turn, use customer information and loyalty data to make the supply chain more efficient; (3) Networks – the information system links suppliers, producers and customers and is continuously updated. DLN companies use information technology resourcefully to increase the effectiveness of supply chain and customer relationship management initiatives. They develop a solid network of digitized information that ties together the value chain and creates loyalty and on both the front and back end of business operations. On the supply side, DLN companies continuously monitor customer value based on feedback about customer requirements, purchase history, and potential purchases and rely on digital technology to make certain their most valuable customers are kept satisfied. They do this by managing inventory through the supply chain so that the best customers are served first, and making certain short and long‐term capacity planning responds to these customer priorities. In addition to General Motors, Deloitte Research identified three other innovators in the automotive industry – Porsche, DaimlerChrysler and Renault/Nissan – that are developing certain aspects of a DLN.
Managing stakeholders vs. responding to shareholders
Authors: George Bill
Published: February 2004

The pressure on corporate executives to increase their stock prices and shareholder value in the short‐term has caused them to lose sight of how lasting shareholder value is created in the first place. The enterprise must be managed to meet the needs of all stakeholders rather than making decisions based solely on short‐term shareholder value considerations. The primary management emphasis should be on meeting the needs of our customers and motivating employees to do so. Companies that put their customers first and empower their employees to serve them will inevitably provide greater growth in shareholder value than those corporations that focus primarily on boosting their stock price and only giving lip service to other constituencies. The demands of all stakeholders must be met concurrently. Leaders must juggle the competing interests of their stakeholders – customers and customer’s customers; current employees and those in acquired companies; short‐term and long‐term shareholders; media; local, national, and international communities; government and regulators.
Women entrepreneurs in Oman: some barriers to success
Authors: McElwee Gerard , Al‐Riyami Rahma
Published: February 2004

This study presents a preliminary report of an exploratory, qualitative investigation of the role of Omani women entrepreneurs in Muscat. It establishes the factors that motivate women to become entrepreneurs. Opportunities for the growth and expansion of women’s entrepreneurship in Oman as well as barriers women encounter are discussed. Suggestions as to how women’s entrepreneurship in Oman might be encouraged are presented; questions for future research are suggested.
Factors affecting the transferability of HRM practices in joint ventures based in Iran
Authors: Namazie Pari
Published: February 2004

Human resource management (HRM) is still a new concept in Iran and there is significant research to be done, mainly because of the changes over the past two decades and the recent increase in the re‐emergence of multinational companies (MNCs). An active area of academic debate is the degree to which HRM practices follow the multinational or local partners practice in international joint ventures (IJVs). The research suggests the significance of ownership structure of critical resources. The study also shows the importance of socio‐cultural differences on the transferability of HR practices and whether these are MNC standardised or localised to the host country. Based on the information from the research findings, the main factors which influenced MNC standardisation or localisation of HRM practices were ownership and control of critical resources, the compatibility of national culture and socio‐cultural differences, mutual trust and respect between partners and the compatibility of management styles of the IJV.
Total quality index: a benchmarking tool for total quality management
Authors: Tavana Madjid , Mohebbi Barbara , Kennedy Dennis T.
Published: February 2004

The total quality index (TQI) proposed in this study is an information technology‐supported benchmarking tool that helps managers assess a total quality management program by enabling the cost‐effective measurement of key organizational processes. TQI utilizes the analytic hierarchy process and the Delphi technique to measure ideal and actual quality management along eight critical factors synthesized by Saraph et al. and supported by subsequent research. A study utilizing TQI was conducted to evaluate the progress of quality management in clinical and non‐clinical settings. Eight clinical and six non‐clinical departments were selected from four different hospitals to participate in this study. The results show that, contrary to the common beliefs, there is little difference in the actual and ideal scores on the eight critical factors between the clinical and non‐clinical settings.
Benchmarking the use of information technology by the quantity surveying profession
Authors: Shen Qiping , Li Heng , Shen Liyin , Drew Derek , Chung Jacky
Published: February 2004

This paper introduces the findings of a recent benchmarking study on the use of information technology (IT) among quantity surveying (QS) companies in Hong Kong. The study was conducted through a questionnaire survey among 15 QS companies registered in Hong Kong, representing around 50 per cent of the total number of companies in the profession. The study focused on how QS companies use IT in their daily operations, including information flows among business partners, the use of computer hardware and software, IT expenditure and training, management support, the perceived benefits of IT applications, perceived obstacles in IT implementation, and major criteria used in software selection. The content validity and measurement reliability of the questionnaire survey have been evaluated, and both of them have shown satisfactory results. This study provides an up‐to‐date and holistic view of the current state of IT applications among QS companies in Hong Kong, in terms of how well they have equipped with IT and their attitude towards adopting this technology. These findings provide a strong foundation for subsequent benchmarking studies to identify best practices among the quantity surveying profession in the construction industry. Based on the findings, this paper suggests major areas for improving IT usage in this sector of the construction industry.
Institutional involvement and the REIT January effect over time
Authors: Lee Ming‐Long , Lee Ming‐Te
Published: February 2004

The Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1993, implemented since 1 January 1994, facilitates the increase of institutional investment in the real estate investment trust (REIT) market. Utilizing this particular feature in the market, we examine the time‐series effect of institutional holdings to distinguish the tax‐loss‐selling hypothesis and the window‐dressing hypothesis for REITs. Consistent with the tax‐loss‐selling hypothesis, we have evidence that the January premiums decreased with the level of institutional involvement for REITs. Furthermore the January premiums declined significantly for equity REITs only that attracted more institutional investors than mortgage REITs. On the other hand, the January premiums did not decrease significantly for mortgage REITs. Overall the results suggest that trading strategies to profit the higher January returns may work only when institutional investors exit and leave the market.
Expertise and evidence in the assessment of library service quality
Authors: Walters William H.
Published: February 2004

The assessment of library service quality requires both expertise and objectivity. Undergraduate students are neither expert nor objective, and assessment methods that rely heavily on students’ perceptions are likely to be inadequate in several respects. Students’ needs are not necessarily consistent with their preferences, for example, and the limited experiences of most undergraduates give them only a partial understanding of library collections and services. Although user surveys provide valuable information about patrons’ perceptions, that information is no substitute for objective standards based on professional knowledge.
Exploring the Budgetary Base in Georgia
Authors: Lauth Thomas P.
Published: February 2004

This article is an exploratory study of the budgetary base in Georgia. Using agency, gubernatorial, and legislative estimates for all state agencies during the fiscal years 1980 to 1987, it examines the place of budgetary base decisions in the politics of state budgeting, and seeks to improve the theoretical understanding of that concept.
Reforming the Expenditure Budget Process: The Canadian Experience
Authors: Savoie Donald J.
Published: February 2004

During the past twenty years the government of Canada has introduced three distinct approaches to managing its expenditure budget. The approaches were all introduced with considerable fanfare and also with the promise that they would enable the government to finally get a firm handle on its expenditure budget.

This paper looks at the three approaches and outlines their most important features. The paper also presents the reasons that led to the downfall of both the Program Planning Budgeting System (PPBS) and the Policy and Expenditure Management System (PEMS). The paper goes on to argue that the recently introduced approach—labeled the Expenditure Review Committee (ERC)—is also unlikely to meet expectations. It also provides an historical context for understanding why each particular approach was adopted.
The Need for Enhanced Defense Contractor Cost Management Systems
Authors: Rezaee Zabihollah , Elmore Robert C.
Published: February 2004

Technological advances, increasing government regulations, and the structural decline in the size of U.S. defense spending are placing ever‐greater requirements on the information provided by the contractor's cost accounting system. A survey of defense contractors reveals that their cost accounting systems are mainly used to provide cost estimation and, accordingly, these systems are not utilized for performance evaluation and managerial decision making. Since the traditional defense contractor's cost accounting systems do not produce the information that management requires, new cost management systems (CMS) must be designed and implemented. The CMS can assist contractors to: (1) obtain financial and operating information to evaluate and improve the performance of contracts, and (2) provide contractors with relevant information to plan, manage, control, and direct contracts. This article examines the effectiveness and efficiency of currently used cost accounting systems by government contractors, discusses the nature and characteristics of the CMS and their relevance for government contractors, and suggests step‐by‐step procedures for proper implementation of the CMS.