bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial orientation and international entrepreneurial business venture startup
Authors: Kropp Fredric , Lindsay Noel J. , Shoham Aviv
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This study seeks to examine the interrelationships among three elements of an entrepreneurial orientation (proactiveness, innovativeness, and risk‐taking), age and education of the entrepreneur, and the international entrepreneurial business venture (IEBV) start‐up decision.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a sample of 539 individuals from dynamic internationally focused South African firms. Since the dependent variable is non‐metric and the independent variables associated with the IEBV new entry decision are metric, multiple discriminant analysis was used to test new entry decisions.

Findings

Results indicate that the start‐up decision is positively related to the proactiveness and risk‐taking components of an entrepreneurial orientation and the age of the lead entrepreneur and negatively related to the education of the lead entrepreneur. As predicted, the innovativeness component of entrepreneurial orientation is not a factor in the start‐up decision.

Practical implications

Investors can determine the likelihood of venture start‐up by examining the proactiveness and risk‐taking dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation and the age and education of the lead entrepreneur. Since older and less educated entrepreneurs have a greater likelihood of starting ventures, entrepreneurial training programs may provide greater returns by targeting this age and education group.

Originality/value

This is the first examination of the role of entrepreneurial orientation, age, and the IEBV start‐up decision. It examines South Africa, a more dynamic, changing and hostile business environment. Managers and financiers can enhance their probability of success by developing the proactiveness and risk taking entrepreneurial orientation dimensions.
Supply chain redesign in the healthcare industry of Singapore
Authors: Kumar Arun , Ozdamar Linet , Ning Zhang Chun
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate cost reduction in logistics and supply chain management of medical supplies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a case study.

Findings

In many healthcare systems, executives focus on cost containment efforts to lower acquisition price of supplies instead of lowering the total delivered cost. However, the case in this research presents a novel contemporary approach to reduce costs by process reengineering in supply chain management.

Originality/value

Healthcare managers are continually searching for innovative ways to contain costs without sacrificing quality. To achieve a reduction in costs, hospitals need to review their activities and associated costs, and eliminate nonvalue‐added activities. The novel process reengineering presented in this paper is concerned with the centralization of warehousing and the control of non‐production goods.
An integrated approach for supplier selection and purchasing decisions
Authors: Ting Shin‐Chan , Cho Danny I.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper seeks to provide academic researchers and practitioners with a better understanding about purchasing strategies through an integrated approach to supplier selection and purchasing decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper views supplier selection as a multi‐criteria problem. Through the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), in consideration of both quantitative and qualitative criteria, a set of candidate suppliers is identified. A multi‐objective linear programming (MOLP) model, with multiple objectives and a set of system constraints, is then formulated and solved to allocate the optimum order quantities to the candidate suppliers.

Findings

The paper provides tradeoffs among different objectives, which are more consistent with the complexity and nature of the real‐world decision‐making environment. It also offers better information and solutions supporting effective purchasing decisions.

Research limitations/implications

The main concept of the proposed approach can be applicable to any organization with a purchasing function. However, its implementation will be very specific to a particular organization of interest, as each individual organization must define its own subjective criteria and constraints. The area of decision support system development, which automates (or computerizes) the input process of the proposed models and integrates with other databases in a company, will provide great opportunities for future research.

Practical implications

The paper provides practitioners with flexibility and effectiveness in their supplier selection and purchasing decision process and with a better understanding about their future purchasing strategies. The results from the application of the proposed models to the supplier selection problem at a high‐technology firm in Taiwan show that the models are effective and applicable.

Originality/value

This paper takes an integrated approach to problem analysis (i.e. multi‐objectives with both quantitative and qualitative information), uses a sound scientific methodology in model development (i.e. integrating AHP with MOLP), and provides practical use of the models. It offers additional knowledge and value to both academics and practitioners.
Assessing the rigor of case study research in supply chain management
Authors: Seuring Stefan A.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the current practice in research on supply chain management applying a case study method. Two particular research fields, namely sustainable supply chain management (SustSCM) and performance supply chain management (PerformSCM), are used as examples.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a content analysis, where quality criteria for documenting case study research are analyzed. A total of 68 papers from the two research fields (51 SustSCM and 17 PerformSCM) forms the sample. The criteria of analysis chosen are taken from the case study research process.

Findings

There are two major findings: first, supply chain researchers have to make a greater effort to collect data from supply chains (i.e. at least two, or better, three or more stages of the supply chains). Second, the research process needs to be more comprehensively documented in related peer‐reviewed journal publications. This way, the value of case study based research might be appreciated more, as well enabling stronger conclusions to be drawn on the individual piece of research.

Research limitations/implications

The research presented focuses on two particular fields inside SCM. However, the observations made that methodological rigor is often lacking in the papers holds for both fields.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the further development of appropriate empirical research strategies for supply chain management.
The impact of information technology on the financial performance of third‐party logistics firms in China
Authors: Wang Qiang , Lai Fujun , Zhao Xiande
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the impact of information technology (IT) on the financial performance of third‐party logistics (3PL) firms in China.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire‐based mail survey was conducted in mainland China. Path analysis and spline regressions were used to model the relationship between IT and financial performance.

Findings

This study found that IT can significantly improve 3PL firms’ financial performance and there are complementarity and plateau effects of influencing financial performance between IT advantage and executives’ involvement in both IT and business strategy planning.

Research limitations/implications

The modeled relationship between IT and competitive advantages may not hold in different cultural environments and industrial settings. The sample size was small. Perceptual performance data were used.

Practical implications

To achieve better financial performance, it is essential for 3PL firms to sense strategically the importance of IT and commit sufficient managerial efforts and resources to achieve IT competency. In addition, IT executives should involve themselves in strategic business planning to better understand business strategies.

Originality/value

The results of this study – which constitutes the first to investigate IT in the 3PL industry in China – provide empirical evidence and a better description of the relationship between IT and financial performance. The findings provide valuable managerial guidance and insights for logistics managers.
Longitudinal assessment of an integrated industrial supply chain
Authors: Elmuti Dean , Minnis William , Abebe Michael
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate the impact of integrated supply chain management on productivity, efficiency, and performance of participants in the system, in an industrial setting in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses longitudinal and experiment field study. Actual organizational data from the survey firm was used. Follow‐up interviews were conduced with key managers in the manufacturing facility.

Findings

The results show positive and substantial improvements in overall performance as a result of integration and coordination of the internal functions within the firm and effectively linking them with their external suppliers. The results also support the claims that an integrated supply chain involves aligning outsourcing activities to achieve the organizational goal of responding positively to the needs of consumers. Several factors were identified as key contributors to supply chain program success in this firm. These included sharing information through new technologies, established partnerships with key suppliers, and constant communication with employees.

Research limitations/implications

Organizations must realize that integration and coordination in each stage of the supply chain design, planning and operation result in considerable impact on the complete chain. Firms should realize that it takes commitment and skill to implement an integrated supply chain program and reap its benefits. Managers interested in applying an integrated supply chain management system would benefit from this study.

Originality/value

This exploratory empirical study provides insight into the effectiveness of implementing an integrated supply chain management approach for increasing the probability of success in the supply chain management approach and identifies areas that need further investigation.
Supply chain collaboration: capabilities for continuous innovation
Authors: Soosay Claudine A. , Hyland Paul W. , Ferrer Mario
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how collaborative relationships enhance continuous innovation in the supply chain using case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from semi‐structured interviews with 23 managers in ten case studies. The main intention was to comprehend how these firms engaged in collaborative relationships and their importance for successful innovation. The study adopted a qualitative approach to investigating these factors.

Findings

The findings demonstrate how differing relationships can impact on the operation of firms and their capacities to innovate. The ability to work together with partners has enabled firms to integrate and link operations for increased effectiveness as well as embark on both radical and incremental innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The research into the initiatives and strategies for collaboration was essentially exploratory. A qualitative approach using case studies acknowledged that the responses from managers were difficult to quantify or gauge the extent of these factors.

Practical implications

The findings have shown various methods where firms integrated with customers and suppliers in the supply chain. This was evident in the views of managers across all the firms examined, supporting the importance of collaboration and efficient allocation of resources throughout the supply chain. They were able to set procedures in their dealings with partners, sharing knowledge and processes, and subsequently joint‐planning and investing with them for better operations, systems and processes in the supply chain.

Originality/value

The case studies serve as examples for managers in logistics organisation who are contemplating strategies and issues on collaborative relationships. The study provides important lessons on how such relationships can impact on the operation of firms and their capability to innovate.
From periphery to center: how CSR is integrated in mainstream performance management frameworks
Authors: Rahbek Pedersen Ebsen , Neergaard Peter
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to analyze how CSR can be embedded in mainstream performance management models. It is frequently argued that corporate social responsibility (CSR) needs to shift from being a peripheral add‐on activity to become integrated in all core business functions. However, in order to do so it is important that CSR is absorbed in the mainstream management standards that are used by the majority of large companies today.

Design/methodology/approach

The Danish pump manufacturer Grundfos A/S serves as a good practice example to describe how CSR can be integrated in the Business Excellence model. The analysis is primarily based on secondary information and interviews with managers and senior professionals in Grundfos A/S and Grundfos Group.

Findings

The case example illustrates how CSR can become well‐integrated in the business excellence model. However, it is argued that the instrumental view dominating the Business Excellence model may suppress alternative and more value‐based approaches to CSR.

Originality/value

The analysis is primarily based on interviews which make it difficult to conclude whether Grundfos A/S actually live CSR in the daily operating practices.
The interrelationship of retailer's relationship efforts and consumers' attitude and behavior
Authors: Wang Wen‐Hung
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test a model for examination of the impact of different relationship efforts (financial bonding, social bonding, and structural bonding) made by a retailer on key relationship marketing outcomes (trust, relationship commitment, and behavioral loyalty).

Design/methodology/approach

A cross department study in the financial services industry was conducted based on three consumer samples (Department of Loans, Deposits, and Credit Cards) drawn from XYZ Bank, one of the most famous banks providing merchant banking services in Taiwan.

Findings

SEM results indicate that retailers undertaking relationship efforts to loyal consumers can positively affect these consumers' attitudes and behavior. Besides, the findings suggest that financial services with dissimilar attributes need different kinds and levels of service and relationship efforts.

Originality/value

Consequently, managers and employees of retail banks need to be trained, motivated, and rewarded for making relationship efforts to regular consumers.
Project ownership: implications on success measurement
Authors: Olsson Nils O.E. , Johansen Agnar , Alexander Langlo Jan , Torp Olav
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss measurement of project success in an ownership perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a case study of owner structures in 11 projects. For each case, an analysis was made of which stakeholder that held six different roles related to project ownership. Multiple sources of information are used, including archives, interviews and observations.

Findings

Results from the study indicate that owner responsibilities are not always concentrated to one individual stakeholder in a project. While a traditional owner can be identified for some projects, it is a more complex picture for many other projects.

Research implications/limitations

This paper has primarily analysed project ownership on a macro level, between organisations. Challenges related to identifying owners can to a certain extent also be found on a micro level, within the most involved organisations, but this has not been the aim of the research.

Practical implications

Measurement of project success in a project owner perspective needs to be adjusted to fit the projects in question. While the question “Who owns a project” is easy to answer in some cases, it requires a more differentiated answer in other cases.

Originality/value

Most literature on project ownership focuses on one owner who has all the characteristics of the owner. It is based on one stakeholder who takes the risk related to the cost and future value of the project. The study shows that owner responsibilities are not necessarily concentrated to one individual stakeholder in a project.
The board's black hole – filling their assurance vacuum: can internal audit rise to the challenge?
Authors: Chambers Andrew
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether there is a significant deficit in the assurance needs of boards and, if so, what might be done to fill this gap and whether internal auditors have a role to play in this.

Design/methodology/approach

Contemporary examples of boards being taken by surprise are analysed, making extensive use of high quality reports and other information. The role played by internal audit, both in these cases and with reference to what is currently regarded as “best practice” is explored to assess internal audit's potential to evolve to meet the challenge.

Findings

Boards are exposed to a partial assurance vacuum which urgently needs to be filled. If internal audit can make a further quantum leap, as internal audit has done in other respects in the past, then internal audit may fulfil this need.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on the plentiful information in the public domain which has been sufficient to reliably support the conclusions drawn.

Practical implications

Nothing less than a root and branch revamp of internal auditing is called for. If responded to, the rewards for internal audit and the added value for boards and their stakeholders will be massive.

Originality/value

While internal auditors are tentatively moving into the audit of governance processes, this paper argues that internal audit must be much bolder to become a respected corporate governance partner to the board.
Telling the story
Authors: Brophy Peter
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that libraries are facing challenging environments in which services and content must be delivered into the users' workflows and “lifeflows”.

Design/methodology/approach

An understanding of linguistic codes and language games, and similar concepts, will help librarians to appreciate the enormous challenge of becoming an accepted member of each user community.

Findings

In order to assess performance in this changing environment, much greater emphasis will need to be placed on qualitative methods, including ethnographic approaches, externally‐moderated, reflective self‐evaluation and narrative‐based practice.

Originality/value

Libraries themselves are changing, and most of all are being challenged to reinvent themselves within the workflows and lifeflows of their users. If this challenge is to be met then innovative yet robust methods need to be developed to assess performance in this new milieu.
LibStats
Authors: Jordan Elizabeth
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development and practical applications of a highly configurable online tool – LibStats – licensed under GNU GPL, for collecting and reporting on statistics in the academic library, developed at the University of Queensland Library.

Design/methodology/approach

LibStats – an online tool – was used to make quantitative and qualitative assessments and to benchmark the results against those of other academic libraries in Australia and New Zealand.

Findings

Beyond an introduction to the tool this paper explores the potential benefits it brings to the organisation in terms of information available to management and staff time saved.

Originality/value

LibStats is a tool which is available as open source software and which facilitates the collection, recording, analysis and reporting of statistics in an academic library. It is highly configurable, which allows for customised implementation in other organisations.
Ten years after: Measuring Quality revised
Authors: Poll Roswitha
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the new edition of the IFLA handbook Measuring Quality that since its publication in 1996 has influenced performance measurement in many countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used is to acquaint librarians and information professionals with the present state of performance measurement and the different ways of assessing quality in specified library services.

Findings

Based on the research for the handbook, the paper presents an overview of today's performance measuring worldwide, as well in individual libraries as in joint library projects. Examples show typical varieties in measuring processes and results and possible methods for the evaluation of specified library services and products. The new edition widens the perspective to public libraries and adds indicators for electronic services and cost‐effectiveness. The 40 performance indicators in the handbook follow the structure of the Balanced Scorecard. Each indicator shows examples of results obtained in libraries and information about other possible methods.

Originality/value

A comprehensive overview and state‐of‐the‐art analysis of the core publications concerning performance measurement in libraries.
Supported self‐evaluation in assessing the impact of HE libraries
Authors: Markless Sharon , Streatfield David
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the progress made in developing mechanisms for self‐supported impact assessment for a range of library service providers in the UK, and higher education libraries in particular. There is no established tradition for the higher education libraries to evaluate the impact that they have within their organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have created and developed a range of techniques which have been applied across the United Kingdom in school, health, public and higher education libraries, refining the techniques over the last decade.

Findings

The impact initiative so far is reviewed and areas for further promotion and development identified.

Originality/value

The work described is one of few that has achieved impact assessment across a wide range of libraries and over a significant period.
A comparison of usability techniques for evaluating information retrieval system interfaces
Authors: Zabed Ahmed S.M.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to compare the results of two different usability techniques in evaluating the Web of Science interface.

Design/methodology/approach

At first three human factors experts conducted a heuristic evaluation with the interface. Then, usability testing was conducted with 22 students recruited from various departments at Loughborough University, UK.

Findings

A comparison of these techniques showed that heuristic evaluation revealed qualitative information whereas usability testing uncovered mostly quantitative data about usability of the interface. Although heuristic evaluation found more problems than usability testing, it also identified complementary information.

Research limitations/implications

This paper recommends applying multiple usability techniques to ensure comprehensiveness in evaluating IR interfaces.

Originality/value

This paper shows that using multiple usability techniques resulted in a high degree of comprehensiveness in evaluating IR user interfaces.
Trust and organisational effectiveness
Authors: Ole Pors Niels
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to discuss the relationship between the concepts of social capital and organisational effectiveness in a library setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The concepts are discussed in relation to two studies of information behaviour. One of the studies is a local public library study and the second is a nationwide survey into high school students' information behaviour.

Findings

The data indicate a discrepancy between the development of (especially) public library services and the perceptions of a library in the mind of both users and non‐users.

Research limitations/implications

It has only been possible to raise a few questions on the basis of the two surveys. However, these questions relate to the theoretical concepts introduced in the beginning of this paper.

Originality/value

The paper highlights discrepancies that need to be remedied if the trust that is so important for public institutions is to continue to be at a high level.
Pay‐for‐performance programs in Israeli sick funds
Authors: Gross Revital , Elhaynay Asher , Friedman Nurit , Buetow Stephen
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the development of “pay‐for‐performance” (P4P) programs implemented by Israel's two largest sick funds, insuring 78 percent of the population.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of the main features and their evolution over time, the observed outcomes and concerns related to implementing these programs.

Findings

Our analysis revealed that although implementation has been successful, both managers and physicians have voiced concerns regarding the effect of measuring clinical performance such as focusing attention on the measured areas while neglecting other areas, and motivating a statistical approach to patient care instead of providing patient‐centered care.

Originality/value

The Israeli case provides an interesting example of nation‐wide, long‐term implementation of the pay‐for‐performance program. Therefore, it provides other countries with the opportunity to assess features that may facilitate successful implementation, as well as highlighting issues related to the outcomes of P4P programs.
Pay‐for‐performance in New Zealand primary health care
Authors: Buetow Stephen
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the introduction of pay‐for‐performance in New Zealand primary health care; compare this policy development with analogous English initiatives; discuss the risk of unintended, adverse consequences of the New Zealand programme; and consider key lessons for the policy development of pay‐for‐performance in health care.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based on description and analysis of policy developments for performance management in New Zealand and England.

Findings

It is not clear that the New Zealand Programme appropriately reflects the values and goals of primary health care providers. It encourages slow, incremental change by paying bonuses to Primary Health Organisations, rather than practices, for meeting targets on a small number of performance indicators. The bonuses account for a tiny proportion of the total income of PHOs and in general are for service improvement rather than to supplement practitioner incomes. It is important to align performance incentives with stakeholders' values and goals.

Originality/value

The paper discusses New Zealand developments in pay‐for‐performance in the context of English policy initiatives and considers lessons for all health systems.
Incentives and control in primary health care: findings from English pay‐for‐performance case studies
Authors: McDonald Ruth , Harrison Stephen , Checkland Kath
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The authors' aim was to investigate mechanisms and perceptions of control following the implementation of a new “pay‐for‐performance” contract (the new General Medical Services, or GMS, contract) in general practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This article was based on an in‐depth qualitative case study approach in two general practices in England.

Findings

A distinction is emerging amongst ostensibly equal partners between those general practitioners conducting and those subject to surveillance. Attitudes towards the contract were largely positive, although discontent was higher in the practice which employed a more intensive surveillance regime and greater amongst nurses than doctors.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was small and opportunistic. Further research is required to examine the longer‐term effects as new contractual arrangements evolve.

Practical implications

Increased surveillance and feedback mechanisms associated with new pay‐for‐performance schemes have the potential to constrain and shape clinical practice.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the emergence of new tensions within and between existing professional groupings.
Whither British general practice after the 2004 GMS contract?
Authors: Huby Guro , Guthrie Bruce , Grant Suzanne , Watkins Francis , Checkland Kath , McDonald Ruth , Davies Huw
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide answers to two questions: what has been the impact of nGMS on practice organisation and teamwork; and how do general practice staff perceive the impact?

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on comparative in‐depth case studies of four UK practices.

Findings

There was a discrepancy between changes observed and the way practice staff described the impact of the contract. Similar patterns of organisational change were apparent in all practices. Decision‐making became concentrated in fewer hands. Formally or informally constituted “elite” multidisciplinary groups monitored and controlled colleagues' behaviour for maximum performance and remuneration. This convergence of organisational form was not reflected in the dominant “story” each practice constructed about its unique ethos and style. The “stories” also failed to detect negative consequences to the practice flowing from its adaptation to the contract.

Originality/value

The paper highlights how collective “sensemaking” in practices may fail to detect and address key organisational consequences from the nGMS.
Implementing payment by results in the English NHS
Authors: Mannion Russell , Marini Giorgia , Street Andrew
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper draws on economic theory and empirical evidence in order to explore the role of incentives and information in the successful implementation of the new hospital funding system in the NHS.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on case studies in two strategic health authorities comprising in‐depth interviews with key stakeholders and analysis of background statistics and documentation.

Findings

The structure of tariffs under payment‐by‐results (PbR) provides high‐powered incentives for providers to increase activity because they are rewarded for hospital activity, and payments for increases in activity are made at full average cost. However, there is a danger that hospitals will increase activity beyond affordable levels and possibly induce demand inappropriately.

Practical implications

In future, as PbR is extended, it will be important to monitor its intended and unintended effects. Such evaluation should consider the extent to which commissioners are able to live within their budgets and whether hospitals are engaging in opportunistic behaviour and gaming the new funding system.

Originality/value

This study has shed light on the incentive structure of PbR for NHS organisations and has provided insights for the development of information strategies for providers and commissioners in the NHS market. It also highlights a number of policy issues that need to be addressed as PbR is rolled out nationally as well as several important gaps in knowledge that are in need of more sustained investigation.
ICT and the tension between old and new: the human factor
Authors: Górniak‐Kocikowska Krystyna
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen the understanding of tensions between old and new in the emerging global society driven by information and communication technology (ICT); and to argue that creation of a theory of this society would contribute in the easing of these tensions.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods used in this paper are mostly analytical, descriptive, and qualitative. An analysis of the creation and development of ICT from a mathematical discipline of computer science to a universal tool and a driving force of the emerging global society, a development which is paralleled by the commercialization of ICT, is followed by two case studies illustrating the tensions between old and new and the role ICT plays in them. One case is centered on the challenges of traditional models of education by new, ICT‐friendly approaches, like the Multiple Intelligences Theory; the other addresses tensions between old and new that in many societies presently take the form of tensions between local/national and global.

Findings

A claim is formed that the existing tensions between old and new are closely linked to the tensions between the two most common forms of society, inclusive (egalitarian) and exclusive (elitist).

Originality/value

The paper will help understand some of the reactions to the process of globalization. It can serve as a tool for assessment and prediction regarding this process. Lastly, the paper contains a justification of merit in the creation of a “grass root” theory of an ICT‐driven global society built on a universally accepted ethical foundation.
Computer ethics for the computer professional from an Islamic point of view
Authors: Al‐A'ali Mansoor
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the ethical behaviour of Muslim IT professionals in an attempt to stop many unethical practices such as software piracy, software intellectual property violations and general software development.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the computer ethical principles presented in the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) code of conduct from an Islamic point of view through studying some relevant verses of The Holy Quran and Hadiths of Prophet Mohammed. An evaluation of the benefits of this newly proposed Islamic computer code of ethics is presented by surveying how IT students, IT professionals and software house owners would adhere to it. The evaluation was carried out by teaching different groups of participants aspects of the ACM code of conduct and the proposed Islamic computer ethics code and then surveying their opinions by a questionnaire.

Findings

The study demonstrates that teaching computer ethics in general, and computer ethics from an Islamic point of view in particular, clearly contributes to ethical behaviour of Muslim IT professionals with regards to software development issues.

Research limitations/implications

It is not possible to put participants through real life scenarios and practically observe how they would react to different ethical situations. The empirical research thus relies on what participants said they would do.

Practical implications

The newly developed Islamic code of computer ethics and its proposed implementation method can be utilised by organisations for their benefit.

Originality/value

The study is the first to address the issue of computer ethics and Islam for IT professionals. This paper presents a first Islamic computer code of ethics and presents a methodology for applying it. It also reports a study undertaken in Bahrain of how attitudes might be influenced by teaching computer ethics in general, and computer ethics from an Islamic point of view in particular.
The clash between standardisation and engagement
Authors: Gerdes Anne
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how standardisation influences home care work practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a qualitative interview‐based case study from the elderly care sector in a Danish council. The interviews reveal care workers and administrative staffs' interpretation of how the implementation of IT and standards affects their work situation. Findings from the case study are supported by a large‐scale quantitative study regarding organisational transformations in the elderly care sector.

Findings

The paper discusses how standardisation, in the form of implementation of IT‐systems and categorization tools, influences the potential for development of competencies. The findings show that an engaged practice is difficult to maintain when working under circumstances characterized by lack of time and a requirement for standardisation and documentation.

Originality/value

The study provides insight into the divergence between standards and the importance of relying on experience‐based knowledge and value rational skills in relation to care work. The paper stresses the point that standards are necessary to coordinate workflow activities and support decision making. Nevertheless, it is shown that when reification dominates, the degree of standardisation will lend itself to an instrumental practice not supportive of growing competencies within the field of care giving.
Surveillance at workplace and at home
Authors: Vuokko Riikka
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how surveillance facilitates new power relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This longitudinal qualitative study is predicated on observations of the home care workers interacting with their managers and clients. The emerging picture was complemented with interviews of the participants. The home care workers were chosen as being crucial in the construction of new everyday relationships, and their interpretations were given most value in presenting how surveillance and monitoring relationships are constructed as embedded mundane practices and as emerging from practical needs.

Findings

The paper discusses an implementation and use case of surveillance capable technology in a social home care setting. The findings suggest discrepancy of how surveillance is being interpreted by different participants depending on their positioning in the context of use.

Originality/value

The study presents a case study where surveillance issues emerge not only at the workplace but also in the domestic sphere. The paper explores the workers' role in defining surveillance at the workplace, and questions the limits of legitimate surveillance in the social care context concerning vulnerable citizens as clients.
Global ICT‐ethics: the case of privacy
Authors: Collste Göran
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The world wide use of information and communication technology (ICT) is one aspect of globalisation. In the ethical discussion of the implications of ICT the right to privacy is in focus. However, ICT‐ethics has been developed in a Western context and hence, privacy might be a Western value without relevance in other cultures. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the general problem whether one can expect a global convergence on ICT‐ethics, with the right to privacy as a case in point. Is privacy a universal or contextual value?

Design/methodology/approach

In order to answer the research question, methods for conceptual and ethical analysis are used. The concept of privacy is analysed and an argument asserting that there is a deep disagreement between Western and Japanese understanding of a right to privacy is critically examined.

Findings

Privacy is a vague concept and it is not possible to identify one Western view of privacy and, hence, to distinguish between the Western and – for example – the Japanese views of privacy. Common arguments for privacy within ICT‐ethics do not presuppose contextual Western premises. While globalisation implies increasing inter‐cultural communication one may well envisage a growing global convergence of a right to privacy. Thus, there is not a deep cultural disagreement concerning the right to privacy.

Originality/value

The paper critically examines arguments for the view that privacy is a Western value without relevance in Japan. It clarifies the meaning of privacy and provides reasons why one can expect a global convergence of a right to privacy in particular and ICT‐ethics in general.
Improving construction planning through 4D planning
Authors: Allen Chris , Smallwood John
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Construction planning will play an increasingly more critical role within the realm of the built environment due to the unprecedented growth in the industry and a general skills shortage. Existing practices are failing to deliver the desired results for construction companies and clients alike. The increasing availability of 3D models has facilitated their use in a process known as 4D planning, allowing the visual planning of activities including the communication of logistical and other interfaces. The purpose of the research was to better understand the implementation of such a process, and determine the benefits thereof.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of the literature was followed by an observation/participation case study. A further survey of construction personnel was conducted to provide data to inform opinion's generated during the case study.

Findings

The results of the research suggest that 4D planning provides the tools for visualising the process implications in creating 3D reality whilst facilitating the improved coordination, communication and delivery of a project to programme.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study emanate from a single project environment, namely a case study, and therefore further research should be undertaken to substantiate and validate the findings.

Originality/value

The findings have major implications in that the benefits of the use of 4D planning have been documented. Consequently, clients need to mandate the use of 3D in the design phase, to enable design phase information to be used downstream for planning, off‐site pre‐fabrication and facilities management. Contractors need to use 4D models to evaluate their critical activities, maximise the use of labour and materials, and communicate the site‐based planning process.
Architectural and building features disparity and preservation of structural and fabrics integrity
Authors: Ilozor B.D.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to identify and discuss those architectural and building features associated with certain faults and defects, and by implication, impact preservation of buildings' structural and fabrics integrity.

Design/methodology/approach

Building condition survey and analysis was conducted.

Findings

It was observed that the differing structural and fabrics integrity of these buildings overtime was connected most significantly to their different roofing styles and features.

Research limitations/implications

Investigation was limited to two distinct buildings located on the same block at Hampton University, Virginia, USA.

Practical implications

This finding underscores the importance of choosing and designing features of buildings with their operation, maintainability, and life‐cycle preservation in mind, if structural and fabrics integrity must be maintained, and sustainability achieved, while restoration dollars are saved.

Originality/value

Ilozor et al.'s building defects cause‐effects model was applied in understanding the contributions of various architectural and building features to certain faults, defects or failures that impact the preservation of buildings' structural and fabrics integrity.
Quantification of agility
Authors: Vinodh S. , Sundararaj G. , Devadasan S.R. , Rajanayagam D.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a tool for quantifying agility in organisations and test its practical compatibility.

Design/methodology/approach

An agile quantification tool was designed initially by referring to a 20 criteria agile model. A scoring pattern with a maximum 1,000 marks was incorporated in the agile quantification tool which was then subjected to experimentation in an Indian electronics switches manufacturing company.

Findings

A feedback session was conducted among the executives of the company to test the practical acceptability of the agile quantification tool. A statistical analysis of the study revealed that 90 per cent of their views were in favour of adopting it.

Research limitations/implications

The marks allotted against the 20 agile criteria incorporated in the agile quantification tool are not supported with research findings. This leads to the questioning of the rationale behind allotting the marks against these criteria. In order to overcome this limitation, the opinions of the executives were gathered. Their opinions revealed that the marks allotment followed in the agile quantification tool is practically compatible.

Practical implications

In order to acquire agile characteristics, modern organisations should measure the agility levels at which they operate. This agile quantification tool explained in this paper fulfils this need.

Originality/value

The agile quantification tool presented in this paper rests its foundation on the 20 criteria agile model which is well supported by the research findings reported in literature. By the virtue of its research background and practical compatibility, the agile quantification tool is considered to be highly valuable.
Construction workers' health and safety knowledge
Authors: Edwards David J. , Holt Gary D.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Numerous factors relate to the effectiveness of health and safety (H&S) management within construction; but a specific factor influencing the extent of H&S “incidents” on site, is the amount of H&S knowledge held by construction workers. This paper aims to offer some initial observations on construction workers' H&S knowledge, based upon test‐result data from an invigilated online H&S test.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 564 candidates were analysed principally by observing mean performance scores and apparent differences, among the sample and defined sub‐samples, for each of five H&S subject groupings that make up the test.

Findings

Mean scores indicate better retained knowledge in “general H&S” questions and lower knowledge in “manual handling” questions. There was little difference in mean scores between defined candidate age groups; or between different size classifications of candidates' employer organisations. Perceived characteristics of employers' training regimes did not appear to impact test results either.

Research limitations/implications

Disparity among sub‐sample sizes within the data means that these findings are indicative and accordingly, have implications for a follow‐on study that will utilise deterministic modelling to more definitively confirm the effect of formal training and other (e.g. workplace) characteristics, on worker H&S knowledge retention.

Originality/value

The paper shows that workers having recently undertaken H&S training exhibit greatest retained knowledge, the level of which remains relatively consistent regardless of where a candidate lives, or a candidate's age group.