bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formal corporate social responsibility reporting in Finnish listed companies
Authors: Kotonen Ulla
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse CSR reporting in large Finnish listed companies, focusing on the following questions: what kinds of motives and objectives appear behind CSR reporting, what kinds of documents are used in CSR reporting, and what kind of information related especially to CSR policy, stakeholders, as well as economic, social and environmental responsibilities, is presented? Finally, the idea is to compare large Finnish listed companies' CSR information with corresponding international results.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the analysis of qualitative data consisting of formal CSR reports, including annual reports and special CSR reports, of 2006. The empirical analyses are supplemented with interviews with four company representatives and with two auditors. The information of special CSR reports is analysed by using the content method.

Findings

Companies understand responsibility as a duty to act responsibly towards their stakeholders and CSR reporting as a response to stakeholders' expectations and demands. The study indicates that especially corporate characteristics such as industry group and internationalization stage as well as general contextual factors such as social and cultural context affect voluntary CSR reporting. It shows that the large Finnish listed companies define corporate social responsibility as being based on Elkington's triple bottom line (TBL) model. In CSR reporting companies follow more or less GRI guidelines. Formal CSR information is presented based on the TBL model but companies emphasize different issues in their reporting.

Research limitations/implications

First, the research is based on interpretative understanding and these kinds of analyses are always more or less subjective. Second, the analysis is based on CSR information produced by large Finnish listed companies. Thus, the study does not give an extensive description of the CSR reporting in all Finnish listed companies or in non‐listed companies. Third, the research is a cross‐sectional study based on CSR information published in one particular year. And fourth, the research data include only certain formal CSR information, not all CSR disclosures. Thereby, the analysis gives a snapshot or a glimpse of Finnish CSR reporting practices. The analysis does not tell anything about history, development or future of CSR reporting practices or anything about other kinds of CSR communication of the large Finnish listed companies. Thus, the reality reconstructed in the study must not be generalized, but used to understand CSR reporting in the context.

Originality/value

The paper analyses CSR reporting in large Finnish listed companies, focusing on motives and objectives, documents used, and information related particularly to CSR policy, stakeholders, and economic, social and environmental responsibilities.
The interrelationship between corporate income tax and corporate social responsibility
Authors: David Fátima , Gallego Isabel
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the interrelationship between corporate income tax (CIT) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the international framework of the European Union (EU).

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framework of the paper is based on taxation and social responsibility theories that evaluate the impact of economic, financial and social decisions taken by firms, in the area of accounting and tax harmonization in general, and of corporate income tax, in particular.

Findings

Through the connection of CIT and CSR frameworks, the paper urges for more accountability and shows that, as each EU Member State improves accounting and taxation harmonization, the result is more comparability of economic and financial information presented by the firm.

Practical implications

The paper attempts to provide an understanding of the adoption of the social responsibility posture of firms as a key factor that negatively and positively influences the tax regime of each EU Member State. In a social responsibility, accounting and taxation transnational framework, the increasing of a firm's activity and changes in its environment require new attitudes of sustainable development.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to discuss the interrelationship between CIT and CSR within the international framework of the EU. Corporate income tax can be seen as the mechanism by which governments encourage active civic duty, corporate sponsorship and CSR practices.
Evaluating extra‐financial reporting
Authors: Gebauer Jana , Hoffmann Esther
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a long‐time report evaluation project of the Institute for Ecological Economy Research (IÖW) and the business network “future – verantwortung unternehmen”.

Design/methodology/approach

On a regular basis, the IÖW/future‐Ranking evaluates the content and communicative quality of sustainability and CR reports of Germany's 150 largest companies. The project provides a platform where stakeholder expectations concerning corporate responsibility and transparency are synthesised into a comprehensive catalogue of reporting requirements. These criteria have to be met by the companies to reliably show sustainability commitment.

Findings

The evaluation of the reports not only makes the sustainability reporting practice of companies comparable and transparent to the public. The set of criteria itself also serves as a reporting framework for companies and thus enhances directional certainty about corporate contributions to sustainable development. It is itself subject to a periodic evaluation and adaptation by means of dialogue and feedback processes with representatives from industry, politics and NGOs.

Practical implications

The paper discusses the process of ranking and the possibilities for future developments in this.

Originality/value

The process described has had little academic exposure and so the paper provides an original insight into a practical subject which has academic interest.
Confucius Institutes
Authors: Chang Li Hsi , Mirmirani Sam , Ilacqua Joseph A.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on Confucius Institutes and assess the applicability of theories of leadership and knowledge sharing to multinational organizations and worldwide networks. Growth of multinational trade and decrease in international tension have facilitated the globalization of both profit‐seeking and non‐profit organizations. Changes in economic and political environment have also blurred the divide in management practices between these organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research applies recent theoretical developments to analyze leadership and knowledge sharing of the highly successful Confucius Institutes. Operational similarities and differences between this global learning organization and multinational businesses are evaluated.

Findings

Many similarities exist between the operations of the Confucius Institutes and multinational businesses. For both, strategic goals are achieved through the promotion of global expansion and the management practices of distributed leadership and knowledge sharing. The study makes clear the successful application of distributed leadership to a worldwide network. The Confucius Institutes reflect the cultural and social changes in China, combined with influences of global cultures. Findings suggest that distributed leadership is a suitable management style for coping with variant cultural and socio‐political conditions globally. This leadership style, combined with a knowledge‐sharing network, is also suitable for the situational variables encountered in making thousands of decisions across hundreds of global locations by both learning institutions and business organizations.

Originality/value

The paper explores a relatively new area of the similarities and differences between global non‐profit and business networks as learning organizations. The study is of value to both those managing and those studying such organizations.
Complex adaptive systems as metaphors for organizational management
Authors: Palmberg Klara
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of complex adaptive systems (CAS) from the perspective of managing organizations, to describe and explore the management principles in a case study of an organization with unconventional ways of management and to present a tentative model for managing organizations as CAS – system management. There is a need for the development of knowledge, metaphors and language for management of the new forms of organizing, for example, value networks, which are evolving as a response to the increased demand for efficiency, flexibility and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The frame of reference is based on a literature review of the area of CAS and an inductive and interactive approach is used to identify the management principles in the case study.

Findings

A classification of the components of a CAS is suggested and described as properties of, and approaches for, managing CAS. The identified management principles in the case study are: a clearly formulated mission, delegation of responsibility and authority, diversity and competition, and follow‐up and feedback. As a result of analyzing the frame of reference and the case study, a tentative, conceptual model for managing organizations as CAS – system management – is presented including; metaphor, components and approaches.

Originality/value

The case study contributes to the empirical body of knowledge of organizing and management. The tentative model is a contribution to the ongoing discussion about managing organizations as CAS.
Caught in the middle: multinational enterprise strategy in interstate warfare
Authors: Dai Li
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate interstate warfare and its association with foreign direct investment (FDI) and multinational enterprise (MNE) strategy by integrating insights from international business (IB) and international political economy (IPE) literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies economic and regulatory mediators for the relationship between war and FDI, laying the groundwork to evaluate strategies the MNE would undertake in the event of war in the host country.

Findings

The effects of war on MNE strategy can be separated into short‐term and long‐term effects. Specifically, the MNE may be influenced by war in its: initial investment decision; factors of significant importance for running the company's local operations; and critical factors for future foreign investments.

Research limitations/implications

Studies using actual firm‐level data can look at whether MNEs from non‐warring states conduct business as usual elsewhere or leverage war in the host country to their advantage. Further investigation is also needed to determine the power that MNEs in the home country have over foreign policy to assert their own strategies in a particular host market.

Practical implications

This paper has implications for managers of MNEs in warring host countries or contemplating the expansion of their operations overseas to a war zone with regard to the likely impact of war on firm operations.

Originality/value

Current paradigms of IB, in failing to account for the macro‐level and contingent nature of warfare, leave a gap in the business literature: specifically, how the international political context affects firms' activities, strategies, and decision‐making processes. This paper attempts to incorporate warfare, together with firm‐specific, industry‐specific, and other country‐specific determinants to inform the question: what determines the international success or failure, and in turn the long‐run competitiveness, of firms in turbulent times?
Swedish retail banking: a competitive update
Authors: Boström Gert‐Olof , Wilson Timothy L.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The present paper aims to extend an ongoing study of Swedish trade journal's, Privata Affärer, recognition of the “bank of the year.”

Design/methodology/approach

The information used in this paper came from Privata Affärer, which annually recognizes a “best” bank in Sweden. Each issue containing the annual recognition provides the rationale for selecting the specific bank as well as interviews with their CEOs. The data base is robust – every bank in Sweden is surveyed, so results come not from a sample, but a census of banks and banking practice; 17 year's selections are now available.

Findings

Results are interpreted in terms of Porter's five forces model and Stabell‐Fjeldstaad value model. For eight of the last 11 years, new entrants have dominated the award; in fact, in the last five years one winner was a virtual bank and another was a subsidiary of a retail grocery chain.

Research limitations/implications

It is tempting to extend results to the USA and elsewhere in the industrialized world, but of course results relate only to Sweden. Nevertheless, it is suggested that competitors who enter with significantly new services can, and do, become popular leaders in this industry.

Practical implications

Sweden tends to be a leader in service theory and development. Consequently, a model exists for developing a competitive edge in other countries.

Originality/value

This paper provides an independent confirmation of service models of competition, which generally are lacking in the literature.
The relationship between Machiavellianism and undergraduate student attitudes about hypothetical marketing moral dilemmas
Authors: Malinowski Carl
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the Machiavellianism of undergraduates and how it relates to their attitudes about hypothetical marketing moral dilemmas.

Design/methodology/approach

The 309 participants are presented with nine ethical scenarios after completing the Mach IV scale.

Findings

As hypothesized, undergraduates low in Machiavellianism believe the ethically questionable action is wrong, anticipate guilt if they consider doing the same thing, and say they would not do it. All correlations are significant at the 0.01 level (two‐tail).

Practical implications

Organizations can use the data to increase their global competitiveness.

Originality/value

The investigation is the first to assess the association of Machiavellianism and purely marketing moral scenarios. Educators can focus business ethics training on high Machs.
Analysis of multicultural meta‐ethical clinical perceptions concerning life and death of patients
Authors: Parhizgar Fuzhan F. , Parhizgar Suzan S. , Dean Parhizgar Kamal
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The prime objective of this article is related to dignified human beings as patients in clinical interventions. The main attention of such a perception focuses on observance of humaneness in relationships among physicians, patients, family members, and community at large. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines in depth, analytical deliberations concerning traditional and modern values of medical care and healthcare knowledge and practices.

Findings

Therefore, we need to attest that we live in a global village in which multicultural people must live side‐by‐side, if they desire to peacefully coexist. We must assume that human values are based upon general agreements about ethical issues. Such agreements rely on a framework of equitable treatments of all mankind. Medical ethics is about committed codes and oaths of professional medical authorities to protect natural rights, human rights, and civil rights of patients in clinical interventions. It strives to achieve professional objectives to facilitate patients to be recovered from pain and suffering and regain their health in order to live the good life.

Practical implications

This paper is devoted to define the notions relevant to the philosophies of quality of life, ethical, and moral problems concerning clinical medicine, and preventive care systems. It analyzes certain ethical and moral distinctions between medical care and healthcare services, and indicates that cautions should be observed in discussing these notions within the context of preventive care and clinical care systems.

Originality/value

This paper explores the following questions: What is the meaning of a psychosomatic normal life? How life should be respected? What are the meta‐medical practices? What should be the logical and philosophical foundations for medical care and healthcare ethics? How should clinicians and practitioners respect not only cost‐benefit analysis but also consider cost‐effectiveness analysis in providing and promoting medical care and healthcare services for patients?
Bean counters or bright young things?
Authors: Warren Samantha , Parker Lee
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to put forward a “next step” research agenda for investigating accountants' professional identity.

Design/methodology/approach

The visual nature of identity construction is discussed, issues of media stereotyping are revisited and recruitment/educational implications are reviewed. Attention is also paid to the accounting profession's attempts to change perceptions of the accounting identity.

Findings

A hybrid strategy of research participant generated photographs and semi‐structured interviews is exemplified as a fruitful methodology and outlined as a way forward for tapping into the identity construction processes and perceptions of accountants from their particular perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is intended to stimulate further research into accountants' identities from a visual perspective. However, it does not directly report on empirical findings.

Practical implications

Questions of identity construction offer us a window into the degree to which public stereotypes are matched by professional accountants' own personal definitions and the bearing these may have on current and future career intentions. Such insights can provide foundations for a range of profession policy issues spanning recruitment, retention, training and professional development.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a visual methodology not employed in accounting research before and addresses the neglected area of accountants' identities as individual professionals.
Timing and drivers of management control systems in joint ventures
Authors: Porporato Marcela
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the timing of management control systems (MCS) implementations, their drivers and effect on joint venture (JV) survival.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on case study data (archival data, interviews, and site visits) collected at three JVs in the automotive industry. Contingency theory is used to define Cartesian relationships.

Findings

A description of the timing and reasons for MCS implementation in JVs is provided. Initially, environment, strategy, and partner culture are considered to implement governance mechanisms and transfer prices/cost allocations for long‐term transfers of technology and corporate services. Later, structural and technological factors are considered to implement operative MCS such as budgeting, transfer prices/cost allocations of manufactured parts and performance measurement.

Research limitations/implications

All three JVs studied: belong to the automotive industry (SIC 3174); have balanced ownership (50/50); and have one partner in common (a European family‐owned business with professional management). Data are obtained mainly through site visits, five interviews, five mailed questionnaires, and public and private archival data.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to offer a descriptive model of the timing of MCS implementation in 50/50 JVs explained by the effect of contingent factors in each stage of the JV life and in JV survival.
Special treatment regulation in China: potential unintended consequences
Authors: Green Wendy , Czernkowski Robert , Wang Yi
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to trace the behaviour of Chinese companies receiving a special treatment (ST) designation in order to determine the extent to which the application of this regulation may have led companies to engage in activities conducive to the removal of the ST designation. In particular, the paper examines evidence of opinion shopping or earnings manipulation by these companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical analysis of annual report databases for Chinese‐listed companies, including statistical significance testing relating to ST companies.

Findings

Most ST companies have removed the ST status by the third year after the initial ST designation. Compared to non‐ST companies, ST companies losing the ST status are more likely to engage in practices indicating earnings manipulation. Also, compared to non‐ST companies, ST companies are more likely to change auditors after an initial or second year of ST designation. However, while this behaviour suggests opinion shopping, auditor switching for the ST companies is not associated with losses becoming profits nor with improved audit opinions.

Research limitations/implications

The results reported in this paper must be considered in light of the limitations inherent in empirical analyses. That is, the relationships identified in this paper are indicative of potential earnings management or audit opinion shopping; however, the study cannot provide the actual reasons for these empirical results.

Practical implications

The results suggest the ST regulation did not lead to unintended consequences in terms of auditor switching by ST companies to improve either their reported earnings or their audit opinion.

Originality/value

The ST status is unique to China and this paper is the first to report on potential reporting and audit quality implications of this regulation.
Cost‐system functionality and the performance of the Malaysian palm oil industry
Authors: Foong Soon‐Yau , Anak Teruki Neilson
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between cost‐system functionality and the performance of oil‐palm enterprises in Malaysia, as well as whether manager's perceived usefulness of cost information mediates the cost‐system functionality‐performance relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire is used to gather data from oil‐palm enterprises located in Sarawak.

Findings

The results indicate that the cost relevance/timeliness dimension of cost‐system functionality significantly enhances the performance of oil‐palm enterprises. However, manager's perceived usefulness of cost information only partially mediates the cost‐system functionality‐non‐financial performance relationship, and this is possibly due to the nature of control over the estate operations by the head office.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the small‐sample size and because the oil‐palm enterprises are located only in Sarawak, the generalisability of the results may be limited. Besides, the findings are based on the estate setting whereby decisions made are relatively structured and therefore, they may not apply in less‐structured decision‐making settings.

Originality/value

Past findings on the causal link between cost‐system functionality and performance are mixed. However, high‐functional cost systems are expected to be more cost beneficial when environment is highly uncertain. The palm oil industry operates in a highly turbulent economic environment due to serious external challenges and it is expected to benefit from high‐functional cost systems. Unlike previous studies based on firms from diverse industries, the operational homogeneity of the oil‐palm enterprises in this paper enables the effects of cost‐system functionality on performance to be examined in a more controlled setting. By analyzing the attributes of cost‐system functionality into two major dimensions, this paper shows that performance could be enhanced only through provision of relevant and timely cost information.
The impact of customer‐related strategies on shareholder value: evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Chang Chen
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Much empirical evidence is in conflict with the expectations of the service‐profit chain which suggests that increases in customer satisfaction will increase customer loyalty and earn additional profits from customers. Management focus on the achievement of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, and associated investment, might, therefore, be misguided, if they believe that the available empirical evidence supports a link between these variables and firm performance. The purpose of this paper is to help firms understand the value of their intangible assets – most notably the important role played by customers in increasing a firm's value.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of survey‐based research carried out in the Taiwanese credit card market, this paper generates a structural equation model facilitating the measurement and evaluation of the relative efficiencies of customer‐related strategies.

Findings

The findings help managers to understand the relationship between customer‐related strategies (customer acquisition, retention, and add‐on selling) and their impact on customer measures and ultimately firm performance. Customer lifetime value is shown to be the most important indicator of financial performance and the firm's shareholder value; the customer loyalty measure is shown to have no impact on shareholder value, and to be negatively related to the implementation of an acquisition strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is conducted within the Taiwanese credit card market, and the findings may not be generalisable to other locations or to other markets.

Practical implications

These empirical findings suggest that marketing strategy has a central role in the formulation of financial policy, since such strategies can be shown to have an impact on the financial value of the business.

Originality/value

The paper provides further evidence linking customers with firm value, which will be important for management decision making and resource use.
Potential niche markets for luxury fashion goods in China
Authors: Gao Ling , Norton Marjorie J.T. , Zhang Zhi‐ming , Kin‐man To Chester
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate market segmentation of affluent Chinese consumers and develop profiles of identified segments for potential target markets for luxury fashion goods.

Design/methodology/approach

The data are from the 2006 edition of an annual survey called the “China's New Rich Study”. The respondents form a representative sample of affluent consumers, 18 to 45 years old, residing in China's 12 largest cities. A psychographic segmentation approach is employed to classify these consumers.

Findings

Five distinct market segments of affluent Chinese consumers are identified and profiled. Of these segments, three seem the most promising target markets for luxury fashion goods.

Practical implications

When companies understand the similarities and differences between consumer segments as well as the unique characteristics of segments, they have a meaningful basis for selecting receptive target markets and formulating and implementing effective marketing strategies. The findings of this study can be useful not only to companies that offer luxury fashion goods, but also to those targeting the upscale market with a plethora of products and services like yachts, luxury cars, high‐end electronics, resort vacations, and credit cards and other financial services.

Originality/value

This is the first study on segmentation of Chinese consumers for potential target markets for luxury fashion goods. Results reveal heterogeneity among affluent urban Chinese consumers. Strategies for marketing luxury fashion goods to promising target markets in China are outlined on the basis of segment profiles and culturally based motivations for purchasing such goods.
Information source usage in teen apparel purchases: China, Japan and the United States
Authors: Schaefer Allen D. , Stephen Parker R. , Hermans Charles M.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

China, Japan, and the USA represent three of the world's most important teen apparel markets. The purpose of this study is to consider the sources of apparel brand information utilized by 14‐ to 17‐year olds in these three nations. Nine hypotheses are developed based on the interpersonal influence and the individualism/collectivism constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

Respondents include public high school students between 14 and 17 years of age from the nations of China, Japan and the USA.

Findings

Chinese teens report a greater likelihood to use their parents as apparel information sources than do the US and Japanese teens. Of the three groups, the US teens report the greatest likelihood of using marketer based information sources (i.e. advertising and salespersons).

Practical implications

The findings suggest the need to develop specific apparel marketing strategies directed at teens targeted in these nations.

Originality/value

Few, if any, studies have examined differences between Asian and US teens in their apparel information source usage.
Perception of appearance and use of appearance products among Chinese women
Authors: Kaigler‐Walker Karen , Gilbert Zelda L.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine and assess generational differences in Chinese women's perception of appearance and appearance products that can be explained by the political, economic, and social policies of China over the past 40 years.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory research using focus groups and a survey. Three age cohorts of Chinese women, those who came of age during the Cultural Revolution, those who came of age during the early and mid years of China's economic reforms, and those born after the implementation of China's one‐child policy and the market economy, are assessed as to their perception of appearance and use of appearance‐related products. Six cohort differences that could be attributable to these socio‐economic‐political events are found.

Findings

Significant differences between the age cohorts are found on four of six appearance‐related factors – sources of fashion information, happiness in purchasing new apparel, confidence in appearance, and preference for purchasing luxury goods.

Research limitations/implications

Although the study identifies cultural and generational constructs of Chinese women's perception of appearance and use of appearance products, due to its exploratory nature the findings are not generalizable to the larger Chinese community. In addition, to provide a more complete understanding of the generational differences, future research needs to take into account additional demographic information such as education and income.

Originality/value

No previous study has attempted to determine the impact of China's economic, social, and political policies on generational cohorts of Chinese women as to their perception of appearance and use of appearance products. Fashion marketers will benefit, as understanding these powerful determinants of purchasing behaviour are paramount to successfully planning, developing and marketing of apparel products.
Creating brand equity in the Chinese clothing market
Authors: Tong Xiao , Hawley Jana M.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of eight selected marketing activities in creating brand equity in the Chinese clothing market.

Design/methodology/approach

A shopping centre intercept survey is conducted to collect data in the two largest Chinese cities, Beijing and Shanghai. The empirical tests, using a structural equation model (SEM), support the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate the positive effects of store image, celebrity endorsement, event sponsorship, web advertising, and non‐price promotions on brand equity in China as well as the detrimental impact of frequent price promotions.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to consumers in Beijing and Shanghai.

Practical implications

The findings answer the following questions: how do foreign clothing brand suppliers develop effective brand strategies for the China market? Should marketing activities designed to build brand equity be modified to accommodate different attitudes or behaviors in China?

Originality/value

Few studies have investigated how to build brand equity in China. A structural model was used to examine the relationship between eight widely used marketing activities and the dimensions of brand equity for imported clothing brands in China. The study also examines the directional relationships between brand equity dimensions.
Integrated marketing communications
Authors: Navarro Angeles , Sicilia Maria , Delgado‐Ballester Elena
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the synergistic effects derived from an integrated marketing communication (IMC) strategy with a criterion of strategic consistency in the message between two different communication tools (advertising and sponsorship) compared to a non‐integrated strategy. Specifically, it focuses on the synergistic effects that IMC has on consumer information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the experimental methodology in order to compare two conditions (integrated campaign versus a non‐integrated campaign).

Findings

The results of this study show that a strategic consistency‐based integration has more positive effects on information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign compared to the non‐integration strategy.

Research limitations/implications

This paper offers empirical evidence that might be useful for advertisers about the increased effectiveness of a strategic consistency‐based integration campaign. Research limitations in this paper provide avenues for future studies in order to validate the effectiveness of this strategic consistency‐based integration in others contexts.

Originality/value

The originality of this research resides in testing the synergistic effects of an IMC strategy by a new experimental methodology to operationalizing the strategic consistency in the message communicated between the two communication tools.
Building brand equity: the genetic coding of Mediterranean brands
Authors: Cuomo Maria Teresa , Metallo Gerardo , Tortora Debora , Testa Mario , Kitchen Philip J.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to stimulate reflection on the concept of Mediterranean brands, to map and qualify their specific genetic make up and their influence on brand equity.

Design/methodology/approach

From an overview of the available literature and using the brand genetics model, conceptual dimensions inherent to the Mediterranean brand are identified, so as to evaluate their contribution in the building and transfer of brand value.

Findings

This paper shows how the properties of Mediterranean elements are reconciled with branding models and more in general, with sustainable business.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the generating drivers of value from a Mediterranean marketing perspective. Management has to govern these strategically in order to retain lasting competitive advantage.
Climate change: a social and commercial marketing communications challenge
Authors: Peattie Ken , Peattie Sue , Ponting Cerys
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relevance and implications of the issue of climate change to marketing communicators in both the private and public sectors, and some of the challenges involve in developing effective climate change communications.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a combination of findings from secondary sources combined with some specific key insights drawn from primary research.

Findings

Effective communication on climate change which is capable of motivating changes in consumer behaviour (rather than simply raising awareness further) will depend upon: the relevance of climate change to consumers' lives and the relationship to their consumption behaviours being made clear; targeting strategies which take account of differences amongst key consumer segments; and developing a message which motivates rather than overwhelms consumers whilst avoiding any perceptions of “greenwashing”.

Practical implications

This paper explores a number of practical aspects of the challenges faced by commercial marketers seeking to engage with consumers about climate change, and it illustrates the potential for the transfer of knowledge and insight with social marketers working in the public sector.

Originality/value

The paper is original in its analysis of the multi‐faceted challenge of climate change as an important but challenging subject for marketing communications efforts, and in exploring the potential for the transfer of knowledge and insight between marketers in the public and private sectors.
Men and women as public relation managers in Greece and Turkey
Authors: Panigyrakis G. George , Athanasios Poulis G.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and compare gender differences of Greek and Turkish public relations (PR) managers. In addition to that, the background variables, the job‐related factors and activities of the PR managers are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present paper, a cross cultural study between Greece and Turkey is undertaken. A mail survey is adopted as the most efficient data gathering technique and a total of 138 questionnaires are collected from companies of the service sector in both countries.

Findings

There are minor differences between male and female Greek and Turkish PR managers of the service sector, since there is a standardized type of scientific management. The role of PR managers is shown to be evolving, following a similar route internationally.

Research limitations/implications

Difficulties are encountered in specifying the firms that use PR managers in Turkey. A list of service companies known to use PR managers in Greece as well as in Turkey is provide by three major international advertising agencies.

Originality/value

The findings of this study provide an insight for the PR managers in Turkey. It is the first time that the PR managers in the Turkish service sector are under investigation.
Cypriot parental perceptions of children's internet usage
Authors: Liu Wen‐Ling , Kitchen Philip , Moskovos Argyris
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine parental perceptions of the impact of children's internet usage in the Republic of Cyprus.

Design/methodology/approach

The measures for the survey are synthesized from the existing literature. The paper looks at how Cypriot parents' attitudes lead them to empower their children's use of the internet. It also explores whether parental attitudes act as an obstacle in restraining children's usage of the internet, and their rationales.

Findings

The research findings highlight the importance of children's internet protection in relation to the role of parents. Apart from virus concerns and governmental promotions strategies as main barriers to children's internet usage, the engaged family time is found as a unique barrier to retard internet adoption in Cyprus.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations of this paper is that the data are limited by use of non‐probability quota sampling with only the views of parents, which may limit the generalization of the results.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the marketing literature on children internet usage and the roles of parents and governmental promotion strategies related to internet adoption.
Vertical phasing as a corporate real estate strategy and development option
Authors: Guma Anthony , Pearson Jason , Wittels Kate , de Neufville Richard , Geltner David
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the potential value of significant vertical phasing – that is, the addition of five or more stories to an existing building – as a valuable real option in real estate development, in particular for corporate real estate strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The demonstration is done through in‐depth case studies of four major projects in North America: the 24 story, 880,000 square feet expansion of the Health Care Service Corporation building in Chicago; the Court Square Citicorp Campus in New York City; the Bentall Five project in Vancouver; and the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine building in Boston.

Findings

Vertical expansion appears to have significant organizational and logistical advantages for corporate developers, such as the ability to keep staff in one building, and the elimination of the need to relocate with its resulting inconvenience and potential to lose employees. Further, the financial analysis indicates that the option to expand vertically is a reasonable way for corporate developers to access convenient expansion space, while limiting their downside risk. Commercial developers on the other hand may find that the ability to scale back designs in the case of market downturns is particularly valuable. The case studies also confirm by example that the vertical expansion of buildings is technically possible. Although the process of erecting a major new building on top of a fully occupied building is clearly complex, it is not extraordinary difficult so long as the possibility of vertical expansion is built into the original design.

Originality/value

Vertical expansion of buildings has not been appreciated as an attractive feasible option for flexible development of real estate in a risky environment. These case studies and analysis bring this possibility to the attention of the real estate industry and corporate real estate managers.
Accommodating “accelerating” time: the use of timescapes in corporate real estate strategies
Authors: Too Linda , Harvey Michael
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of timescape and examine its impact on corporate real estate strategy, i.e. the people, process, space and technology elements of strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper utilises a qualitative approach to analyse secondary data in order to develop a conceptual framework of timescape for corporate real estate strategies.

Findings

Time is an integral part of strategic corporate real estate management. There are seven key elements that make up the timescape for corporate real estate strategies.

Research limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper and future empirical research should be conducted to validate the propositions made in this paper.

Practical implications

The paper clearly identified the need to incorporate timescape into corporate real strategy formulation. The discussion on the impact of timescape on corporate real estate is useful in providing the impetus for managers who operate in a hyper‐competitive global business landscape to review their existing strategies.

Originality/value

This paper is high in originality as it pioneers the concept of timescape for application within corporate real estate management.
Structuration and social identity theories
Authors: Broady‐Preston Judith
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore qualitative methodologies appropriate to a research project investigating the boundaries and scope of the information profession, with specific reference to the skills/knowledge base and concepts of “professionalism”.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviewed and critically evaluated here are social theory frameworks, focusing particularly on Structuration theory.

Findings

Strong Structuration Theory either singly or in combination with Social Identity Theory, appears to offer a sound methodology to explore concepts of change, conflict and professional identity, from both micro and macro perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

Strong Structuration Theory stands as a powerful tool in discovering reconstituted “boundaries along which professions can build new strategies of legitimisation” and remake themselves.

Originality/value

This review provides a critical evaluation of some of the current methodologies available to help define professional expertise.
Individual differences in service quality assessment
Authors: Hossain Shoeb Zahid , Zabed Ahmed S.M.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate users' individual differences such as gender and status in service quality assessment of Independent University, Bangladesh Library (IUBL), a top‐ranking private university library in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted among IUBL users using modified version of SERVQUAL instrument. User responses for minimum, expected, and perceived services were calculated by gender and status. The gap scores between perceived and minimum services (adequacy gap) and perceived and expected services (superiority gap) by different groups were computed. Finally, the gap scores of gender and status groups were compared statistically using Mann‐Whitney and Kruskal‐Wallis tests.

Findings

The results showed overall IUBL met minimum service expectations of its gender and status groups. However, desired service expectations were not met though they were close to desired service quality. There were significant differences in gap scores by both gender and status groups. The overall and dimensions superiority gaps were significant between male and female users. Similarly, the overall adequacy gap and dimension‐wise gaps were significant across status groups. These findings suggest that SERVQUAL scores differ across library users' gender and status.

Originality/value

The SERVQUAL modification is done carefully as per local settings. Furthermore, this is the first time an attempt has been made to assess individual differences in service quality of a private university library system in Bangladesh.
Equating scores on “Lite” and long library user survey forms
Authors: Thompson Bruce , Kyrillidou Martha , Cook Colleen
Published: December 2009

Purpose

In 2009, in Performance Measurement and Metrics, the authors reported results of LibQUAL+® experiments at four universities in which the use of the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol was investigated. The purpose of this article is to briefly report related results for the first use of LibQUAL+® in Hebrew. The authors also take the opportunity to propose another method for equating scores across the LibQUAL+® Lite and the traditional LibQUAL+® protocols.

Design/methodology/approach

Matrix sampling is a survey method which can be used to collect data on all survey items without requiring every participant to react to every survey question. Here, the authors investigate the features of data from one such survey, the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol, exploring the participation rates, completion times, and result comparisons across the two administration protocols – the traditional LibQUAL+® protocol and the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol – at an Israeli University and for the first time, in Hebrew.

Findings

This experimental approach confirms the previous work which showed that greater completion rates were realized with the LibQUAL+® Lite protocol. The data from the Lite protocol might be the most accurate representation of the views of all the library users in a given community.

Originality/value

This is the first time LibQUAL+® has been used in Hebrew.