bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequently asked questions with reference to the corporate university
Authors: Dealtry Richard
Published: November 2002

This article lists all the foundation questions that are uppermost in people’s minds when they are considering introducing the corporate university development platform into their company or organisation. Some of the questions are simple and direct whilst others are rhetorical in nature. All the questions are those which have arisen most frequently in early discussions with client companies. Answers to the questions are provided from an advisory point of view using references to previously published articles to elaborate on the answer information provided. The approach taken in this article is to provide informative insights into the subject of the corporate university and to initiate thought leadership that will result in the full realisation of the corporate university concept.
The powerful triangle of marketing data, managerial judgment, and marketing management support systems
Authors: van Bruggen Gerrit H. , Smidts Ale , Wierenga Berend
Published: November 2002

Conceptualizes the impact of information technology on marketing decision making. Argues that developments in information technology affect the performance of marketing decision‐makers through different routes. Advances in information technology enhance the possibilities of collecting data and of generating information for supporting marketing decision making. Potentially, this will have a positive impact on decision‐making performance. Managerial expertise will favor the transformation of data into market insights. However, as the cognitive capabilities of marketing managers are limited, increasing amounts of data may also increase the complexity of the decision‐making context. In turn, increased complexity enhances the probability of biased decision processes, thereby negatively affecting decision‐making performance. Marketing management support systems, also being the result of advances in information technology, are tools that can help marketers to benefit from the data explosion. The analysis leads to the expectation that the combination of marketing data, managerial judgment, and marketing management support systems will be a powerful factor for improving marketing management.
An evaluation of styles of IT support for marketing planning
Authors: Wilson Hugh N. , McDonald Malcolm H.B.
Published: November 2002

IT support for marketing planning can aid in the use of marketing tools, facilitate group planning, and support moves towards continuous planning based on a live marketing model of the business. But, amongst other factors, achieving these benefits depends on the style of support provided by the system. After a review of relevant decision support system (DSS) literature, describes here the findings relating to support style from a qualitative evaluation of a system named EXMAR. The findings support Little’s classic rules of “decision calculus”, such as the importance of ensuring that managers understand and can control the system, rather than the objective influenced by management science of prescribing an optimal recommendation. Also emphasises the role of systems in enhancing mutual understanding in a cross‐functional planning team, and hence in building commitment to the resulting plan.
Prioritising customers and other stakeholders using the AHP
Authors: Jackson John
Published: November 2002

Marketers often presume that the statement “the customer always comes first” is an axiom. Other specialists usually do the same with their own stakeholder priorities. Other than for internal political and prestige purposes, this is helpful neither to marketing nor to stakeholder strategic management. This research did show that customers are regarded as key stakeholders generally, and also for the achieving of most corporate objectives. They were in effect regarded as a type of default priority stakeholder. However, two other stakeholder groups – managers and employees – were ranked as just as important or more important to the achieving of organisational success generally and several of the corporate objectives. Slogans about customers always being No. 1 need to be dismissed by professional marketers. Equally important, the research indicates that marketing might well need to give as much attention to the strategic management of managers and employees as it does to customers.
Adaptive AHP: a review of marketing applications with extensions
Authors: Davies Mark
Published: November 2002

A review of marketing applications of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) shows that major concerns involve the accuracy of knowledge elicitation and choice of a suitable knowledge base. Decision support is suggested with a series of decision rules based on different variations of AHP for both structuring and evaluation, presented in the user interface. Models that solved historical information needs can also be adapted for current marketing conditions by incorporating AHP within a marketing knowledge‐based decision support system (KB‐DSS). Current decision rules might be chosen on the basis of past behaviour that has proved successful, sharing similar marketing conditions and characteristics, captured within a suitable knowledge base. Decision rules are then chosen on the basis of their relevance to the current problem, based on historical AHP case data that are continuously revised. This proposal reduces data collection and processing time.
Neural market structure analysis
Authors: Mazanec Josef A.
Published: November 2002

Over the last decade various parametric approaches toward modelling segmented perception‐preference structures such as combined MDS and latent class procedures have been introduced. These methods, however, are not tailored for qualitative data describing consumers’ redundant and fuzzy perceptions of brand images. A completely different method is based on topology‐sensitive vector quantization (VQ) for consumers‐by‐brands‐by‐attributes data. It maps the segment‐specific perceptual structures into bubble‐pie‐bar charts with multiple brand positions demonstrating perceptual distinctiveness or similarity. Though the analysis proceeds without any distributional assumptions, it allows for significance testing. The application of exploratory and inferential data processing steps to the same database is statistically sound and particularly attractive for market structure analysts. A brief outline of the VQ method is followed by a sample study with travel market data, which proved to be particularly troublesome for conventional processing tools.
The ISO 9000 series as a tool for organisational change
Authors: van der Wiele A. , Williams A.R.T. , Brown A. , Dale B.G.
Published: November 2002

Examines a range of reasons relating to ISO 9000 series certification and the implementation of total quality management (TQM). Identifies five different types of strategies in relation to the approach taken to ISO 9000 series certification and defines their key characteristics. Also identifies and describes four different types of TQM maturity, following the achievement of ISO 9000 registration. Points out that the development of a TQM approach to managing a business is based on the emotional commitment of the chief executive officer, the understanding and knowledge of the management team about TQM, appropriate systems to stimulate, guide and direct TQM activities, and the involvement and participation of employees in the business. The findings indicate that ISO 9000 series registration can be a tool for organisational change, but only if the organisation has a plan to develop its approach to the management of quality on the principles of TQM.
A critique of BPR from a holistic perspective
Authors: Cao Guangming , Clarke Steve , Lehaney Brian
Published: November 2002

Business process reengineering (BPR) is widely applied. However, its high failure rates give much cause for concern and call for more research, thus future BPR programmes might be implemented more successfully. Reports on one such research programme. Based on a holistic perspective, it critiques BPR as an approach to change management, in which four types of organisational change are classified: change in process, structure, culture, or power distribution. They are often seen to be interrelated, thus the management of the interaction is central. BPR, it is argued, is powerful in addressing process change, but incapable of dealing with other types of organisational change. Suggests that if BPR is to be applied successfully, either its usage needs to be restricted to change situations where process dominates, or a holistic approach is needed to help address adequately change situations where different types of organisational change are surfaced.
The competitive strategy of China’s township enterprises
Authors: Li Ji , Karakowsky Leonard
Published: November 2002

China’s township enterprises have developed rapidly since the country’s economic reform. Discusses the competitive strategy of these businesses, and offers an explanation for the survival and growth of these enterprises despite the presence of powerful competition and uncertain legal and political environments. Aims to contribute to a fuller understanding of the nature and influence of these enterprises and their important role in China’s economic future.
Knowledge discovery in marketing
Authors: Beynon Malcolm , Curry Bruce , Morgan Peter
Published: November 2002

Rough set theory (RST) involves techniques for knowledge discovery or data mining. RST is typically applied within decision tables and offers an alternative to more conventional techniques for classification and rule induction. It is based on describing decisions or categories by means of certain approximations. Offers an overview of the basic principle through the use of a small example. Concludes with a marketing case study, dealing with the characteristics of different brands of cereal.
Image or substance? Candidate or campaign? A case study of a presidential election campaign in Finland
Authors: Juholin Elisa
Published: November 2002

This study examined reasons why Elisabeth Rehn – labelled by the media as the queen of the polls – lost her lead position a month before the presidential election. Rehn’s campaign had two approaches – traditional and marketing oriented. On one hand it represented a voter‐driven campaign with various non‐political and political professionals at its disposal but on the other hand the candidate was closer to the traditional party‐driven or ideology‐driven concept holding to traditional political themes. The main internal weaknesses of Rehn’s campaign were four factors: the weakness of the (civic) organisation, the lack of resources, the candidate’s credibility problems and the wrong themes. The relevant external factors were: the line‐up of the candidates with two strong right‐wing female candidates and overwhelming resources of the competitive organisations. The study provides evidence that most of the theoretical factors based on previous research to be relevant also in this campaign and emphasises the meaning of the candidate’s credibility. The indicators of the credibility were her competence and appearance (external credibility), and personality and commitment (internal credibility) even though in the very beginning the candidate was evaluated by the campaign workers as the most competent and experienced candidate. The polls and the media were considered to be factors that strengthened the result more than created it.
Corporate communication: a powerful tool for stating corporate missions
Authors: Yamauchi Kiyoshi
Published: November 2002

This paper analyzes some of the issues regarding the belief that a company’s values are encapsulated in its corporate philosophy and that conveying these values is what corporate communication is all about. It draws upon the results of a 1997 survey, by the author, of 76 representative Japanese global enterprises on the current state of their overseas business.
Corporate identity strategy: empirical analyses of major ASEAN corporations
Authors: Foo Check‐Teck , Lowe Andy , Foo Check‐Tong
Published: November 2002

This paper examines corporate identity on three different levels: regional; national and industrial. It then empirically integrates corporate identity with strategy within ASEAN corporations. Multi‐leveled analyses are drawn from statistical results obtained from an already established database of 109 ASEAN public‐listed companies. It seeks to relate corporate identity to the anatomy of strategic planning within major corporations in the ASEAN region.
The implication of language style in business communication: focus on English versus Japanese
Authors: Kameda Naoki
Published: November 2002

An advisory group to the Prime Minister proposed early this year that Japan should consider making English its official second language. This proposal has proven highly controversial, igniting a national debate. While the philosophical debate rages, many in the business community say they face an urgent need to use English to cope with increasing economic globalization. Both the proposal and the claim presuppose that Japanese cannot communicate well simply because they cannot use English well. However, we should understand that linguistic capability and communicative competency are two different things. To improve their communicative competency in business situations, Japanese businesspeople should first be aware of the unique characteristics of their own language habits which are deeply rooted in their ethics. If properly coordinated with English, a widely used international business language, a human‐oriented Japanese communication style may find its way into the global business communication of the twenty‐first century.
How important is professionalism to corporate communication?
Authors: Steiner Carol J.
Published: November 2002

Professionalism is a hot topic in journals serving a wide range of disciplines, but few articles critically question the desirability or value of professionalism. This article raises doubts about the desirability and value of professionalism in corporate communication. It uses Heideggerian philosophy and Kuhnian paradigm theory to suggest that professionalism could transform a heterogeneous, flexible, dynamic, communication‐centred occupation into a routine science characterised by paradigmatic protocols and techniques and prescribed values and beliefs. It argues that the uniformity of thought and conformity of behaviour that underpin professionalism can reduce the value of corporate communication to strategic management and undermine the identity of corporate communicators.
Applying and measuring strategic evaluation to the case of Microsoft
Authors: Kim Jihye , Kim Yungwook
Published: November 2002

To achieve objective information about how media delivered messages to cover an issue, the Microsoft antitrust trial case was investigated from the media coverage of five national newspapers in the USA. From the outcomes, this study revealed that Microsoft got better media coverage at the early issue status than the later issue status, public policy status. As the issue developed, the amount of coverage as well as the number of cases had grown. However, at the later public policy status, unfavorable coverage dominated favorable coverage, thus, monetary value which Microsoft had obtained from the coverage was smaller than that of the earlier status. Newly devised formulae for media content analysis were successfully applied to this case and showed the elaborated methodology for investigating an issue. The research register for this journal is available at http://www.mcbup.com/research_registers. The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at http://www.emerald‐library.com/ft.
Designing and developing multimedia CD‐ROMs: lessons from the Treasures of Islam
Authors: Beheshti Jamshid , Large Andrew , Moukdad Haidar
Published: November 2002

A multilingual and multimedia CD‐ROM containing rare Islamic works of art is designed and produced under fiscal constraints. The disparate rare materials are organised and presented through an intuitive interface based on a book metaphor for a diverse audience. The major portion of the cost (35 percent) was devoted to digitising the images, texts, audio and video segments. Approximately 20 percent of the production team’s time was spent on interface design, while an equal amount of time was spent on analysing and organising the collection of materials for inclusion in the CD‐ROM. The procedure and associated costs for developing this digital exhibition are discussed.
The place of eprints in scholarly information delivery
Authors: Garner Jane , Horwood Lynne , Sullivan Shirley
Published: November 2002

The continuing high costs of scholarly information provision have encouraged the proliferation of eprint servers. We have seen the establishment of the Chemistry Preprint Server, PhilSci Archive and ClinMed, to mention just three examples. Both the well‐established and the evolving eprint repositories offer hope that academic libraries can continue to provide access to required scholarly information at reasonable cost. The paper describes the advantages of eprint servers and possible obstacles to their acceptance.
Outsourcing library technical services – what we think we know, and don’t know
Authors: Sweetland James H.
Published: November 2002

While a considerable amount has been spoken and written about the subject of outsourcing, or contracting out, of technical services in libraries, there is little consensus on even the definition of the phenomenon, or its history. The available research shows that arguments in favour of outsourcing are based on supposed cost and time savings, while opposition tends to emphasise quality issues. Evidence as to whether outsourcing in general in fact saves money or time tends to be spotty, while there is some data supporting concerns about a decline of quality in many outsourcing projects.
Critical issues of Web‐enabled technologies in modern organizations
Authors: Khosrow‐Pour Mehdi , Herman Nancy
Published: November 2002

During the past two decades, advances in computer technologies combined with telecommunication technologies have led to the development of the Internet and its most popular application, the World Wide Web (WWW). Like many other technologies, the WWW has not been free of problems and challenges. A Delphi technique was utilized to assess a list of issues identified in the existing literature. In addition to this list, the panel of experts who participated in the Delphi study identified other critical issues and eventually ranked them in their order of priority and importance. The critical issue identified provides closer insights into issues affecting the overall utilization and management of Web‐enabled technologies, and offers many implications and challenges for businesses, governments and the user community.
Special libraries – how to survive in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Wittwer Roland
Published: November 2002

Libraries must balance traditional services with those evolving from new technologies. Those trying to understand how technological, social and economic issues affect the company for which they work, should never forget their own goals. The small steps they take in shaping the services they deliver today will take their companies into the future. They should develop a clear view of the complex issues involved and equip themselves to meet these challenges. For librarians the challenge to adapt and continue developing professionally has never been greater. If librarians are going to lead this revolution, they may not only be competent at searching and finding information, but should also be fully computer‐literate and skilled in the use and application of these emerging technologies.
Scholarly misconduct and misinformation on the World Wide Web
Authors: Calvert Philip J.
Published: November 2002

The World Wide Web is a potentially powerful channel for misinformation. Focusing upon scholarly misconduct as a source of misinformation, examines the potential impact of misinformation on the Web. Floridi has suggested three methods of countering misinformation on the Web: quality certification of information sources; limiting monopolies controlling information resources on the Web; and greater information literacy among Web users. Focus groups composed of LIS faculty and research students in Singapore discussed this topic. Members of the groups felt that there was sufficient motivation for trying to publish the results of scholarly misconduct on the Web. Group members agreed that greater information literacy was a good way to counter misinformation. They did not believe that quality certification would stop misinformation, and that there was a danger that a certifying group would become a censoring body. Focus group members said that greater plurality would decrease misinformation. Some argued that large and prestigious publishers should be welcomed on to the Web rather than opposed.
Document delivery as an aspect of co‐operation: the British Library’s Co‐operation and Partnership Programme
Authors: Smith Geoff
Published: November 2002

Following the British Library’s 1998 Strategic Review a unit was set up to develop and co‐ordinate the Library’s Co‐operation and Partnership Programme in the areas of collection development, collection management and access. The unit co‐ordinates existing and new BL co‐operative activities and provides an external focus and point of contact relating to co‐operation. A new fund, administered by the unit, was established to support practical co‐operative and partnership activities and projects. The article describes the activities of the Programme, including the review of existing co‐operative activities, the establishment of dialogue and communication mechanism, and the pursuit of co‐operative and partnership initiatives with other organisations, both at a level of strategic frameworks, and on a bilateral or multilateral basis, including through the funding of projects.
The co‐operative education process and organisational socialisation: a qualitative study of student perceptions of its effectiveness
Authors: Garavan Thomas N. , Murphy Claire
Published: November 2002

Argues that co‐operative education allows students to acquire essential practical skills through exposure to the real world. Uses a qualitative approach to reveal factors students perceive as influencing their experiences. Study methodology allowed students to experience empowerment through participation in the study.
Excelling under pressure: increasing your energy for leadership and innovation in a world of stress, change and unprecedented opportunities
Authors: Cooper Robert K.
Published: November 2002

Leaders at all levels of an organization need vision, strategic focus, and a bias toward action. But to shine in today’s complex and changing world, leaders also need new insights and skills that upend conventional thinking about how to increase energy and attentiveness in the face of ever‐rising pressure. Recent scientific discoveries are demonstrating that when people keep their energy high they not only make the most of their current capabilities, but they also reach most deeply into their untapped potential. Research also shows that there are two very distinct kinds of energy – tense energy and calm energy. The author suggests a few simple adjustments in the way people manage their days to help them stop the gear‐grinding effects of tense energy and shift into calm energy.
National training packages: a new curriculum framework for vocational education and training in Australia
Authors: Wheelahan Leesa , Carter Richard
Published: November 2002

National training packages have become the mandated framework for course delivery in Australia’s vocational education and training sector. Each training package contains: qualifications that can be issued, industry‐derived competencies, and assessment guidelines but do not contain an endorsed curriculum component or learning outcomes. All public and private vocational education and training providers must use training packages, or industry‐endorsed competencies in cases where they do not exist, if they are to receive public funding for their programs. This article describes the operation of Australia’s national training packages and considers some of their strengths and weaknesses, many of which may be shared by similar systems elsewhere. Argues that training packages may result in poorer student learning outcomes, and that they may threaten the end of effective credit transfer between the vocational education and training and higher education sectors. Suggests that national training packages are not a good model for other countries and that Australia’s current vocational education and training policy needs to be reviewed.
Evaluation of sintering temperature and tribological properties of ceramic materials with Cr2O3, SiO2 and MnO2 additive compounds
Authors: Mimaroglu A. , Çaliskan M. , Calli I.
Published: November 2002

Advanced ceramics such as alumina are widely in use in the design of components for high engineering applications mainly because of their high wear resistance, high compressive strength, low specific density and high temperature capability. Processing and manufacturing of pure alumina products is a difficult and expensive task. Therefore, additional compounds are added to alumina to achieve a more complex component design and to minimise the product processing and manufacturing costs. This paper examines the effects of speed, load values and the addition of Cr2O3, SiO2 and MnO2 compounds on the friction and wear behaviour of alumina ceramic. Wear tests for alumina and alumina samples containing w1.5% Cr2O3 w3% SiO2 and w1.5% MnO2 compounds was carried out on a pin‐on‐disc machine. Tribological tests were under 2.5, 5 and 10N loads and at 0.5, 0.75 and 1m/Sec speeds. The specific wear rates were deduced from mass loss. The wear rate for alumina without additional compounds was in the order of 10–8 to 10–7mm2/N, while the wear rate values for alumina with additional compounds were in the order of 10–6. Moreover, the wear rate showed more sensitivity to the applied load, particularly at low sliding speeds. Furthermore, it is concluded that a 20 per cent decrease in the sintering temperature resulted in 300 per cent increase in the specific wear rate of alumina ceramic material.
Comparison of journal bearing operational magnitudes calculated using various modern theoretical simulation models
Authors: Pandazaras C.N.
Published: November 2002

This paper presents comparative theoretical results regarding the computational estimation of operational magnitudes of hydrodynamically lubricated finite journal bearings which are either smooth or of negligible roughness and waviness. Results are obtained using various calculational simulation methods. It is concluded that various modern mathematical models used to determine journal bearing properties lead to similar results and support further investigations via the calculational code developed by the author on rough and wavy journal bearing tribosystems for determining their behaviour via an efficient and accurate approach.
Study of the key problems in a water hydraulic piston pump and its applications
Authors: Dong Wang , Zhuangyun Li , Yuquan Zhu
Published: November 2002

In recent years water hydraulic systems have become of major interest because of the human friendly and environmental safety aspects. The piston pump is one of the most frequently used hydraulic units in recent engineering techniques. In a water hydraulic piston pump, poor lubrication is more likely to happen than in a oil hydraulic one because of differences in properties between water and oil. There are some key problems, such as corrosive wear and erosion, which are briefly investigated in this paper. Many new materials have been developed, which give longer life expectancies in water without corrosion and erosion. Recently, a new type of seawater hydraulic piston pump with better suction characteristics had been developed at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China. Much of this research has concentrated on new materials, structure and experiments, which are also specially introduced in this paper.
Active compensation system of influence of non‐linear receivers on power network
Authors: Gwóźdź Michal , Porada Ryszard , Fraockowiak Leszek
Published: November 2002

Presents a system capable of achieving optimal compensation (in real time) by elimination of differential current and employing power electronic controlled current sources. The functional block diagram and a description of the working principle are included. Simulation tests were carried out on current source and active compensation system. The results of simulation and experimental tests of prototype model of controlled current source and compensator confirm a considerable reduction of source current distortion at strong distortions of voltage and current of receiver, a fast response to step changes of load and good stability of its work.
Simplified analysis of circuits containing ferromagnetic cores without air‐gaps
Authors: Wlodarski Z. , Wlodarska J.
Published: November 2002

The evaluation of currents in circuits with ferromagnetic cores leads to troublesome graphical or numerical procedures. These difficulties may be overcome by the introduction of a simple analytical approximation of the magnetization curve directly into the inductance of a circuit. In this way one can clearly describe currents in electric circuits and magnetic induction in a toroidal core (without an air‐gap), including magnetization due to eddy currents and some other effects not considered in the commercial PSpice program.
Implicit descriptions of piecewise‐linear configurations
Authors: Cel J.
Published: November 2002

By a polyhedral or piecewise‐linear configuration in Rn we mean the finite union of finite intersections of open or closed halfspaces. It is proved that every such configuration can be characterized by the single algebraic‐like equation involving only addition, subtraction, multiplication, absolute value and signum operators. Next, all such simplest implicit characterizations are found for idealized diodes, the ideal step function and the hysteresis function. Finally, the one‐dimensional infinite potential trough is analysed and the obtained equations are conjectured to be the simplest possible. All this allows among others to describe systems containing piecewise‐linear elements in a compact form suitable for further analytic studies.
The export propensity of small firms
Authors: De Toni Alberto , Nassimbeni Guido
Published: November 2002

The abundant literature on what determines the export propensity and intensity of firms pays limited attention to some organisational and operational management variables, especially where small enterprises are concerned. It could be argued, however, that new effective organisation schemes and advanced operational management practices are required for small enterprises given the complexity of foreign ventures. An empirical investigation was carried out on a sample of small units. Exporters and non‐exporters are compared in terms of just‐in‐time, concurrent engineering and total quality management practices adoption, as well as the management of human resources and inter‐organisational relationships.
Power losses in a steel sheet under deformed flux condition
Authors: Gmyrek Zbigniew , Zwoliński Grzegorz
Published: November 2002

The commonly used power electronic systems in the drives of electrical machines as well as in the nonlinear receivers, being the transformer’s load, are the main origin of the deformation in the voltage supply. Due to these, the voltage curve is not sinusoidally variable. In these cases additional power losses take place in the motor and transformer cores which occur due to higher order harmonics of the flux. This paper presents a method to determine the power losses for the core where there are two fluxes in the steel sheet: one with relatively small amplitude and high frequency, and the other one with relatively large amplitude but low frequency.
Women entrepreneurs: moving beyond family and flexibility
Authors: McKay Ruth
Published: November 2002

Women entrepreneurs are a vital contributor to today’s economy, employing one from every four employees in the USA. Yet, there is still a dearth of research on women entrepreneurs. This study examines a particular group of women entrepreneurs largely ignored by the literature: entrepreneurs over 50 years old. It focuses on women who do not have a family, or whose children have grown up. Given the aging population this group will increase in numbers and impact on gross domestic product and employment statistics. This paper explores the characteristics of this unique group of entrepreneurs and considers if gender is implicit in the organizational structures of the businesses established by these women.
Discrete Huygens’ modelling simulation of scattered and guided waves at microwaves and optical frequencies
Authors: Kagawa Yukio , Tsuchiya Takao , Yamaguchi Hirohisa , Fuke Akihiro , Chai Lingyun
Published: November 2002

The two‐dimensional discrete Huygens’ modelling or TLM simulation is presented for the TE electromagnetic field problems. The TLM element or node with variable traveling speed and characteristic impedance is applied to several practical problems including scattering at the edge of a wall and over periodic grids or grooves, wave propagation along a dielectric structure, and a mode coupling between two parallel optical waveguides. The TLM solutions are compared with the theoretical ones or the results of other numerical methods and reasonable agreement is achieved.
Hysteresis loop modeling techniques and hysteresis loss estimation of soft magnetic materials
Authors: Faiz Jawad , Sharifian M.B.B.
Published: November 2002

This paper presents various available and new techniques for prediction of the hysteresis loop, no‐load current curve and hysteresis losses. It is shown that linearization is a convenient method to be employed for quick estimation of the hysteresis loop with acceptable accuracy. Although the third and fifth order functions for saturation curve prediction lead to more accurate results, it requires more data and also more complicated equations resulting in longer computation time. Use of various third and fifth order functions for saturation curve are the noticeable advantages of the techniques. The three proposed techniques could predict the hysteresis loop of transformers using simple experiments and iterative computer computations.
Park equations for distributed constants line
Authors: Leva Sonia , Paolo Morando Adriano
Published: November 2002

By using the Park‐transformation the three‐phase TEM‐mode is analysed under the two different points of view: circuit and field. The first one leads, in terms of voltage and current line‐space vector, to a distributed constants active line. The second one leads, in a formal way, to the deduction of the “Maxwell‐Park equation”. The obtained result brings again, in terms of distributed constants, to the instantaneous sequence components algebra. This result allows a unified analysis, valid for any regime, of the poly‐phase travelling phenomena. This approach is particularly effective in presence of harmonics and sequence components. Under these circumstances, due to the wide spread of this kind of phenomena, the extension of the Park approach, already consolidated for the lumped constants, to the distributed constants case appears an obliged step particularly useful in a conceptual and practical path.
Dual formulations for error estimation in non‐uniform transmission lines
Authors: Corti Lorenza , de Magistris Massimiliano , Maffucci Antonio
Published: November 2002

A time domain discrete model for nonuniform transmission lines, based on a complementary formulation of the transmission line equations, is considered. By recasting the line equations in terms of flux and charge, one has to discretize alternatively only one of the two equations, the other being exactly verified. This approach has been widely used in electromagnetics to evaluate the discretization error. With reference to simple examples, we show how the error estimation can be used for a selective meshing of the line, leading to much better approximation with the same computational effort.
Numerically efficient Green’s function for planar structures on multilayered dielectric in cylindrical enclosure
Authors: Pronić Olivera , Marković Vera , Milovanović Bratislav
Published: November 2002

A convenient form of spatial‐domain Green’s function for a point charge in multilayered dielectric medium enclosed by a conducting cylinder of circular cross‐section is presented in this paper. Green’s function expression is obtained by solving Poisson differential equation in cylindrical coordinates and applying analogies with multistep electrical transmission lines. Convergence of the proposed expression obtained in the form of a double infinite sum is investigated and compared with triple‐sum solution for the same problem obtained by standard variable separation method. The numerical investigation has shown that the proposed expression has much faster convergence than the standard solution. Also, contrary to the variable separation method, increasing the number of dielectric layers is not an obstacle in determining of proposed Green’s functions, as it is shown for the three layers dielectric structure.
On the computation of eigen modes for lossy microwave transmission lines including perfectly matched layer boundary conditions
Authors: Hebermehl Georg , Hübner Friedrich‐Karl , Schlundt Rainer , Tischler Thorsten , Zscheile Horst , Heinrich Wolfgang
Published: November 2002

The design of microwave circuits requires detailed knowledge on the electromagnetic properties of the transmission lines used. This can be obtained by applying Maxwell’s equations to a longitudinally homogeneous waveguide structure, which results in an eigenvalue problem for the propagation constant. Special attention is paid to the so‐called perfectly matched layer boundary conditions (PML). Using the finite integration technique we get an algebraic formulation. The finite volume of the PML introduces additional modes that are not an intrinsic property of the waveguide. In the presence of losses or absorbing boundary conditions the matrix of the eigenvalue problem is complex. A method which avoids the computation of all eigenvalues is presented in an effort to find the few propagating modes one is interested in. This method is an extension of a solver presented by the authors in a previous paper which analyses the lossless case. Using mapping relations between the planes of eigenvalues and propagation constants a strip in the complex plane is determined containing the desired propagation constants and some that correspond to the PML modes. In an additional step the PML modes are eliminated.The numerical effort of the presented method is reduced considerably compared to a full calculation of all eigenvalues.
A phenomenological mathematical model of hysteresis
Authors: Takács J.
Published: November 2002

This paper starts with the description of a purely mathematical model of the saturation curve and the hysteresis loop based on the fundamental similarities between the Langevin function the specified T(x) function and the sigmoid shape. The T(x) function which is composed of tangent hyperbolic and linear functions with its free parameters can describe the regular anhysteretic magnetisation curve. Developed from this function the model describes not only the regular hysteresis loop but also the biased and other minor loops like the ones produced by the interrupted and reversed magnetisation process and the open “loops” created by a piecewise monotonic magnetising field input of diminishing amplitude. The remanent magnetism as the function of the interrupted field co‐ordinates is predicted by the model in this mathematical form for the first time. The model presented here is based on the principle that all processes follow the shape of the T(x) function describing the shape of the major hysteresis loop of the ferromagnetic specimen under investigation. The model is also applicable to hysteretic processes in other fields.
An asymptotic solution for the SHE equations describing the charge transport in semiconductors
Authors: Fabio Liotta Salvatore
Published: November 2002

In this paper an asymptotic solution of the spherical harmonics equations describing the charge transport in semiconductors is found. This solution is compared with a numerical solution for bulk silicon device. We also indicate application of this solution to the construction of high field hydrodynamical models.
Perceived organizational support for satisfying autonomy needs of Japanese white‐collar workers
Authors: Yamaguchi Ikushi
Published: November 2002

Examines the differences in strength of autonomy needs and perceived organizational support for satisfying autonomy needs between workers in Japanese and US‐affiliated companies. A total of 340 Japanese white‐collar workers in the Tokyo area participated in this study. The results of multiple regression analysis showed that white‐collar workers in US‐affiliated companies perceived organizational support for satisfying autonomy needs as higher than their counterparts in Japanese companies. However, there were no significant relationships between company affiliation (Japanese vs US) and perceived importance scores. The company affiliation was not related to the gaps between importance and support scores, either. The results suggest that both Japanese and US‐affiliated companies in Japan are currently not able to meet autonomy needs, which are emerging in society as cultural values shift from collectivism to individualism.
A historic perspective on organizational ignorance
Authors: Harvey Michael G. , Novicevic Milorad M. , Buckley M.R. , Ferris Gerald R.
Published: November 2002

Attempts to document how different forms of ignorance may evolve in different organizational dialogues and become embedded in organizational context. Develops the four primary forms of ignorance based on the research from social psychology, public opinion studies, legal studies, behavioral economics, and clinical psychology. The recognition of the historic interdisciplinary evolution of the concept of ignorance plays an important role in the knowledge economy and learning organizations. If management is not aware of the various latent forms of organizational ignorance, it is difficult to develop meaningful innovation programs for organizations in the twenty‐first century. Develops a framework to address the issue of “not knowing what one does not know” (i.e. ignorance of ignorance) that may be the biggest barrier for organizations to becoming an active participant in the knowledge economy.
Interrole conflict as a predictor of job satisfaction and propensity to leave
Authors: Lui Steven S. , Ngo Hang‐Yue , Wing‐Ngar Tsang Anita
Published: November 2002

Interrole conflict arises from incompatible role requirements between two or more work‐related roles. This study examined its effect on job satisfaction and propensity to leave. Data were collected from a sample of 251 professional accountants employed in Hong Kong firms. Results from hierarchical regression analyses revealed that interrole conflict was associated with low job satisfaction and high propensity to leave. In addition, finds that professional commitment moderated the relationship between interrole conflict and propensity to leave. Research and managerial implications of these findings are discussed.
European quality management practices
Authors: Mathews Brian P. , Ueno Akiko , Kekäle Tauno , Repka Mikko , Lopes Pereira Zulema , Silva Graça
Published: November 2002

The patterns of adoption of quality management practices and techniques vary across national boundaries. This article presents the findings of a questionnaire survey into the quality management procedures and tools adopted in three European countries, the UK, Portugal and Finland. A total of 450 responses are analysed. The main differences between the three countries are outlined with regard to factors motivating the implementation of quality systems, quality tools and techniques used, outcomes from quality management and problems encountered in providing quality training. The results are then analysed under the perspective of the probable impact of national culture. The models of national culture developed by Hofstede, Trompenaars and Earley and Erez were used for this purpose. The main conclusion is that these models can help to explain, to a great extent, much of the variation observed and constitute a basis for understanding why particular quality management approaches are adopted.
Quality dimensions, perspectives and practices
Authors: Zhang Qingyu
Published: November 2002

Reviews quality dimensions, perspectives and practices. An integrated framework is developed to analyze the relationships among quality dimensions, perspectives and practices. This framework incorporates two dimensions of the internal‐external focus and objective‐subjective measurement. It clarifies the concept of quality and helps practitioners to position their quality management practices. It explains how to resolve equivocality and reduce uncertainty in improving the quality of the products, ultimately to achieve competitive advantage.
A cross‐cultural study of the differing effects of corporate culture on TQM in three countries
Authors: Sousa‐Poza Andres , Nystrom Halvard , Wiebe Henry
Published: November 2002

Explores the impact of cross‐cultural differences on the facilitating effects of corporate culture on the implementation of total quality management (TQM). Measures corporate culture using the competing values model pioneered by Quinn and Rohrbaugh. Measures implementation levels of TQM using a questionnaire developed at the University of Missouri‐Rolla by Wu. Applies these measures to 133 manufacturing companies in the USA, Switzerland and South Africa to investigate the relationship between corporate cultures and the implementation of TQM. Using canonical correlation analysis on the two variable sets (corporate culture and TQM), identifies the relationships between corporate culture and TQM for each region. The results show that, in each region, several distinct relationships between the dimensions of TQM implementation and corporate culture exist. Also determines that the relationships differ between the regions, implying that the application of TQM should take into account ethnological cultures. Makes conclusions and recommendations for management action.
Market orientation development: a comparison of industrial vs consumer goods companies
Authors: Gounaris Spiros P. , Avlonitis George J.
Published: November 2002

While significant empirical work exists around the conceptualization of the notion of market orientation (MO), as well as its relation to company performance, little empirical work has attempted to depict the actual steps a company has to take in order to increase its adaptability to market situation and, thus become market oriented. Furthermore, no empirical work has attempted so far to investigate the degree of MO between companies producing consumer goods vs companies producing industrial goods. By examining a number of research propositions, this paper attempts to investigate the marketing practices of consumer goods producers vis‐à‐vis the practices of companies that participate in industrial markets and to discriminate industrial from consumer goods companies based on their marketing practices and MO adoption profile.