bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualising the link between national cultural dimensions and B2B relationships
Authors: Terawatanavong Civilai , Quazi Ali
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The main purpose of the paper is to examine the possible links between some selected dimensions of national culture and business‐to‐business (B2B) relationships.

Design‐methodology/approach

Since this paper proposes a conceptual model, a qualitative approach is taken to gather required information mainly through a search of the literature.

Findings

It is argued that the effect of trust on B2B cooperation would be stronger in the collectivist culture than in the individualist culture. Furthermore, the negative consequence of power would be relatively insignificant in the collectivist culture because collectivist network tends to maintain harmony. It is possible to use power coercively in a high‐power distance culture because in such a culture, cooperation is assumed to be power induced. However, opportunism is likely to raise a barrier to reap the benefits that cooperation generates in such cultures.

Research limitations/implications

First, only two of the six dimensions originally proposed by Hofstede in 1980 are adopted for this paper. So, the proposed conceptual model only represents a partial conceptualisation of the Hofstede's framework. Secondly, this paper included only the relationship among three constructs (trust, power, and cooperation) drawn from the relationship paradigm reported in the literature. Therefore, the paper conceptualises a partial view of possible exchanges.

Originality/value

This paper helps broaden an understanding of relationships involving power, trust, and cooperation and can be considered an advancement in research because of its approach to study relationships between the above variables in an international setting proposing culture as having moderating effects on those relationships.
A study of technical, marketing, and cultural differences between virtual communities in industrially developing and developed countries
Authors: Talukder Majharul , Yeow Paul H.P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the technical, marketing, and cultural differences between virtual communities in an industrially developing country, i.e. Bangladesh, and an industrially developed country, i.e. the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 33 virtual community sites from both countries were randomly selected and evaluated based on eight criteria relating to technical, marketing, and cross‐cultural aspects. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance and χ2‐square statistics to identify the similarities and differences between the two countries’ virtual community sites.

Findings

The study found significant differences between the countries in the use of graphics and images, the amount of advertisement and promotional messages, the choices of language, the inclusion of religious content, the frequency of message concerning group welfare, equality and loyalty, and the number of structured messages. The study also found some similarities in navigational efficiency and online product information. In conclusion, the research found gaps in the technical, marketing, and cultural aspects between virtual communities in the industrially developing and developed countries.

Research limitations/implications

The research used only 15 Bangladeshi virtual community sites due to the limited number of sites in the country.

Originality/value

Recommendations are made to narrow the gaps and enhance the effectiveness of virtual communities in the industrially developing country. This will help web developers produce better virtual community websites and help marketers understand virtual community users from different countries and cultures. In addition, the present research method is useful to replicate similar research in other industrially developing countries such as China and India and thus provide insights for improvements.
Spousal influence in Singaporean family purchase decision‐making process
Authors: Xia Yang , Ahmed Zafar U. , Ghingold Morry , Kuan Hwa Ng , Wan Li Tan , Teo Chai Ying Wendy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Although considerable consumer research has focused on family purchase decision‐making in families in Western countries, only limited attention has been paid to family purchase decision‐making within Eastern cultures. This study was designed to explore for the possible differences and similarities in spousal influences in different cultural environments by comparing Singaporean family purchase decision‐making process to that of US families.

Design/methodology/approach

Quota sampling was adopted to generate primary data for the examination of Singaporean spousal influence in family purchase decision‐making; data previously reported on US spousal families was used to compare with the primary data collected in Singapore.

Findings

Differences in marital values between Singaporean husbands and wives were found to be associated with differences in perceived patterns of influence throughout the family decision‐making process. The findings indicate that family purchase decision‐making is a culture‐specific phenomenon. The study found that the level of egalitarianism, which usually indicates a more syncratic or cooperative family purchase decision‐making, was associated positively with higher levels of education and income.

Research limitations/implications

This study revealed a positive relationship between joint decisions and the level of egalitarianism, however, such evidence is still limited. To depend the understanding of spousal influences in family purchase decision‐making in different cultural environments, future research may need to go beyond demographics to include more cognitive, psychological as well as social environmental factors, such as the involvement level, the time a spouse spent alone for shopping, the love, affection, trust and confidence a spouse would have for or earned from another spouse, the importance a spouse would attach to his or her marriage and family, etc.

Originality/value

The paper offers insight into family purchase decision‐making within Easlern countries.
Implementing supply chain management in a firm: issues and remedies
Authors: Varma Siddharth , Wadhwa Subhash , Deshmukh S.G.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

When a supply chain initiative is taken up by a firm a number of issues come up during implementation. The purpose of this paper is to identify some of the major issues related to such implementation and draw out practices from literature to serve as remedies for these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper starts by suggesting a broad framework for implementing supply chain management (SCM) in a firm. This consists of strategy formulation, identification of areas for improving material flow, identifying issues in these areas, and finally performance evaluation in order to determine how well the supply chain initiative has been implemented. Subsequently, the paper follows this framework step by step and in the process identifies the issues likely to arise in the process of SCM implementation. By reviewing current literature it suggests how these issues can be handled effectively.

Findings

The major issues related to SCM implementation are in the areas of logistics, outsourcing/partnerships, and environment. Apart from these issues the prerequisite for implementation is formulation of strategy while the final step in the exercise is performance evaluation. These two activities need to be handled carefully also.

Practical implications

The paper has important implications for the industry since it tries to bring out practices which would help in successful implementation of SCM in a firm. This is more so for the process industry which has lagged behind its counterparts in other industries with respect to implementation of SCM.

Originality/value

The value of this paper which is based on extensive literature review lies in: suggesting a framework to implement SCM, identifying likely issues, and suggesting ways to handle them. The summary diagrams would definitely facilitate understanding. This can be of interest to SCM personnel in the industry. Major contributions by researchers relevant to handling the issues have been tabulated at the end which can be useful for academicians.
Efficiency versus effectiveness in construction supply chains: the dangers of “lean” thinking in isolation
Authors: Fearne Andrew , Fowler Nicholas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To illustrate the potential danger of applying “lean thinking” discretely and indiscriminantly in a project environment with high levels of complexity and uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

Insights are presented from two case studies of private residential construction projects which the authors believe are indicative of recent efforts to reduce the cost of construction activities.

Findings

Evidence was found of attempts to remove capacity in transportation, stockholding and on‐site labour. Some of these attempts were logical and resulted in cost‐savings but others were illogical and resulted in reduced levels of responsiveness and flexibility to respond to the uncertainty which is a characteristic of most construction projects.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is required to quantify the impact of discrete improvements in functional aspects of supply chain projects and the conditions in which lean thinking can be put to best effect.

Practical implications

Firms operating in the construction sector need to pay greater attention to the impact on the effectiveness of supply chain projects of achieving cost savings in discrete activities.

Originality/value

This paper challenges conventional thinking with respect to the application of lean principles to the construction industry and calls for greater awareness of the project‐centric nature of the construction industry and the application of lean thinking therein.
A game theory approach for solving the transshipment problem: a supply chain management strategy teaching tool
Authors: Reyes Pedro M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To describe how the well‐known Shapley Value concept from cooperative game theory can be used as an approach to solve the transshipment problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a numerical example for a three‐person game in a non‐cooperative environment, a selected cooperative environment, and a fully cooperative environment. The well‐known Shapely Value concept from cooperative game theory is used as an approach to solve the transshipment problem and show “how” the pooling coalitions should be formed. The appurtenance of the Shapley Value is verified to ensure that a stable solution exists.

Findings

The primary focus of this paper is to describe how the well‐known Shapley Value concept from cooperative game theory can be used as an approach to solve the transshipment problem and show “how” the pooling coalitions should be formed.

Research limitations/implications

While pooling coalitions are presented, this paper does not discuss revenue sharing.

Practical implications

This paper helps students understand “how to” make the right decisions about where they want to position themselves with respect to supply chain strategies.

Originality/value

The principal contribution of this approach is for establishing a pooling coalition in order to provide a more stable and cooperative solution. This paper also presents application to recent supply chain management business scenarios found in industry.
A fuzzy TOPSIS methodology to support outsourcing of logistics services
Authors: Bottani Eleonora , Rizzi Antonio
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present a multi‐attribute approach for the selection and ranking of the most suitable 3PL service provider.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is based on the TOPSIS technique (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) and the fuzzy set theory.

Findings

A quantitative methodology based on a structured framework, for the selection of the most appropriate 3PL service provider.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may attempt to compare the results of the methodology proposed with those of other Multi Attribute Group Decision Making methods. In particular, the selection tree could be developed in a multi‐tier hierarchy, trying to punctually address the relationships between the upper tier criteria and the lower level ones. With multi‐tier hierarchies, the performance of AHP could be compared with the one obtained with TOPSIS, not only with respect to “technical suitability” but also in terms of easiness to implement, shortcomings and general managerial viability.

Practical implications

From the application of the methodology to a real case, the approach proposed emerges as an appropriate tool, which makes it possible to easily and effectively rank alternatives. Conversely the most critical issue pointed out by the real case application is the preliminary “request of information” phase, which has to be given critical attention. The availability of a well structured body of knowledge about potential candidates emerged as the true discriminant for an effective analysis.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is threefold: first, an original framework of criteria for the selection of the most suitable 3PL service provider is presented. Second, an original methodology based on a fuzzy TOPSIS approach is presented. Third, the practical implications and drawbacks are discussed by means of a real case application.
New paradigm of steel mills in the supply chain of automotive sheets
Authors: Jung Kyung‐Hee , Lee Sang‐Kyu
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide new roles of steel mills with desirable business strategies in the supply chain of automotive steel sheets.

Design/methodology/approach

The characteristics of the relationship between automakers and steel mills, which aim to provide different patterns according to regional markets, are classified into the customer‐supplier relations in the regions of North America and Japan. Extended roles of steel mills with expected responsibilities are considered in the automotive supply chain, not just raw material suppliers.

Findings

Provides new procurement programs of automakers, indicating what can be found there for new paradigm of steel suppliers and how new procurement programs can change. Emphasizes the necessity of developing more updated and functional business models of steel mills in the value chain.

Practical implications

Steel mills have to extend their conventional roles to downstream processing in the automotive steel supply chain, in order to maintain cooperative and interdependent relations with OEMs.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils extended roles of automotive steel suppliers in supply chain management and offers collaborative partnerships to steel mills and automakers.
A proposed integrated framework for analysing supply chains
Authors: Burgess Kevin , Singh Prakash J.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Organisations need to have a profound level of understanding of their supply chains if they are to successfully find sources of competitive advantage within them. Current methodologies for analysing supply chains, such as the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model, are not sufficiently comprehensive, particularly when it comes to understanding the complex social and political factors that are an integral part of any supply chain. This paper aims to use a case study of a supply chain from the public utility industry sector in Australia to develop an integrated framework for analysing supply chains within a multi‐disciplinary and multi‐method research paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study supply chain was mapped with the SCOR modelling tool which provided insights into the physical characteristics and value points along the supply chain.

Findings

Analysis of the SCOR model map also helped identify 31 key “actors” in the chain, who were then interviewed in depth. These interviews provided insights into the social and political factors which determined the supply chain performance.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study is a framework that provides two primary benefits. First, it shows the relationships between relevant variables from different disciplines (i.e. corporate governance, infrastructure, operations knowledge, social climate and innovation), and how they impact on performance. Second, the framework provides a way forward in synthesising multi‐disciplinary and multi‐method research into a coherent whole.
Supply chain management: some sectoral dissimilarities in the Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Jharkharia Sanjay , Shankar Ravi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explore the dissimilarities, if any, in supply chain practices among different sectors of Indian manufacturing industry through development and testing of some hypotheses.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire‐based survey was conducted on four sectors of the Indian manufacturing industry. These are Auto, Engineering, Process and FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) sector. Statistical tests such as t‐tests and regression analysis were conducted to test the hypotheses.

Findings

It is observed from this study that the companies in the auto sector significantly differ from those in the other sectors in the adoption of SCM practices. Engineering and auto sectors have some similarities in certain aspects of SCM.

Research limitations/implications

Though the survey covers many companies, which together constitute many supply chains, it would be interesting to consider a few supply chains in their totality in further research on the topic.

Practical implications

The analysis reveals that there are few fundamental differences in the operation and working of different sectors and these might be the cause of the observed dissimilarities in their supply chain practices.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the gap of identifying and testing the dissimilarities among some sectors in their SCM practices. The analysis would be useful for the practicing managers in developing strategies for their supply chains.
E‐business strategy development: an FMCG sector case study
Authors: Webster M. , Beach R. , Fouweather I.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper sets out to discuss the development of an e‐business strategy by a UK soft drinks company. It is based within the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector (also known as Consumer Packaged Goods), which is characterised by powerful retailers, tier‐1 suppliers of industrial end‐products and ingredient/raw material producers further upstream. The paper aims to examine the tensions created at tier‐1 level relating to the adoption of e‐business solutions for B2B activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the literature to describe the technological options for achieving e‐commerce, focusing particularly on Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and internet‐mediated e‐commerce. It then explores the current uptake of e‐commerce, and the drivers and barriers that relate to its adoption. The theoretical issues identified are explored empirically using data gathered from a case study of Princes Soft Drinks. A detailed survey of organisations within its supply base was conducted in order to inform the development of its future e‐business strategy.

Findings

The results of the survey indicate a lack of enthusiasm among Princes' supply chain members for the adoption of e‐commerce generally and for internet‐mediated e‐commerce solutions in particular.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical survey is limited to the UK soft drinks sector and allows for the development of descriptive findings. These findings, discussed within the theoretical context of the paper, have potentially wider implications for the FMCG sector as a whole.

Practical implications

The work has significant implications for the development of Princes' e‐business strategy, and – by extrapolation – for other companies operating in similar commercial environments.

Originality/value

The paper reports original empirical research in the commercially important FMCG sector. Its value stems in part from the examination of the supply chain tensions created at tier‐1– between powerful e‐committed retailers and e‐reluctant industrial suppliers.
A voluntary logistics security program and international supply chain partnership
Authors: Sheu Chwen , Lee Lilly , Niehoff Brian
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate the practices and value of a voluntary logistics security program, C‐TPAT certification, and its impact on international supply chain collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

Both case study and secondary data research methods were used to collect data from five companies (one customs broker, three importers, and one transporter/freight forwarder) at different supply chain positions. A case study protocol was designed and used to guide the interviews and data collection. Data analysis was performed at three levels: within‐case analysis, cross‐case analysis, and expert analysis.

Findings

In addition to reporting the current practices of the C‐TPAT implementation, the results confirmed the significant impact of the C‐TPAT program to the international trade community. As for the overall goal of improving border security, the results suggest that the C‐TPAT is a means rather than an end and its current value to logistic security is not clear due to the inconsistent practices of supplier involvement. International supply chain security is still in its infancy and has many issues to resolve before it becomes a fully collaborative system.

Research limitations/implications

Future research with more samples is necessary to validate the findings and research positions.

Practical implications

A voluntary logistics security program such as C‐TPAT could enhance the collaboration with international suppliers. Global logistics security systems can learn from the quality movement by focusing on “prevention” and adopting the “total supply chain” approach.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the anxiety and confusion in the international trade community toward the C‐TPAT certification and its impact on international supply chain security. The findings confirmed the linkage between quality program and supply chain security systems.
Fast fashioning the supply chain: shaping the research agenda
Authors: Barnes Liz , Lea‐Greenwood Gaynor
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The phenomenon of fast fashion is under‐researched academically, yet has received attention in most of the fashion and business press. Therefore, as it would seem timely, this article aims to present the findings of some exploratory research.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept of agile supply chains or supply chain theory is explored with reference to fast fashion requirements. The research was carried out using in‐depth interviews of key informants in the fashion industry.

Findings

The major findings of this exploratory research demonstrate a developmental process occurring in supply chain management when fast fashion comes into the equation. This research provides additional complexity on the existing model of supply chain management for the fashion industry.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a research agenda for future exploration. There are implications for theoretical perspectives of supply chain management as well as retail operations.

Originality/value

This paper offers insights into the impact of fast fashion on the supply chain and the links in the process which deserve further research attention.
Supplier management in fast moving fashion retailing
Authors: Doyle Stephen A. , Moore Christopher M. , Morgan Louise
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The over‐arching purpose of this research is to explore the issue of supplier management within the context of fast‐moving fashion retailing.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research utilising key informant interviews was used.

Findings

The research suggests that retailers may adopt a multi‐tiered approach, whereby dynamism and responsiveness are achieved through only partially agile supply chains.

Practical implications

Based on the nature of the qualitative data, the paper provides useful insight into the mechanism by which retailers may balance the need for customer responsiveness with the need for operational and financial viability.

Originality/value

The research highlights the need for the establishment of relationships, the benefits of developing a networked approach, and suggests three distinct stages for a multi‐staged approach.
Fast fashion requires fast marketing
Authors: Sheridan Mandy , Moore Christopher , Nobbs Karinna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to review the potential contributions of category management (CM) to the UK fashion sector and subsequently to establish evaluation criteria for the application of CM in the UK fashion sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research was employed through an exploratory case study method.

Findings

Category management is limited in its application in the fashion industry. The study found that fashion companies adopted collaborative structures in order to implement a CM approach and a CM approach contributes to the development of a fast fashion business orientation.

Research limitations/implications

Exploratory case study method does not allow for the results to be generalised.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a model of the evaluation of the application of category management in the fashion sector.
Supply chain influences on new product development in fashion clothing
Authors: Tyler David , Heeley Jo , Bhamra Tracy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study sets out to focus on the textiles and fashion clothing supply chain with the objective of identifying factors that constrain company activities and inhibit competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology for this research involves multiple case studies involving UK companies. Supply chain management theory and ecological concepts have been used to interpret the data and to identify significant blocks affecting dynamic performance of the participating companies.

Findings

The research has identified seven significant blocks to responsiveness that were apparent in the observed supply chains: timing of fabric trade shows, lack of control of availability of fabric, forecasting, late stage product changes, geographical proximity to market, decision making decoupled from fashion trends, stock‐outs and slow selling products.

Practical implications

The paper draws conclusions about the strategic directions of fashion supply chains and suggests the need to develop strong personal and organisational relationships in order to produce a culture characterised by common goals, trust and mutual interest.

Originality/value

The observations and analyses of responsiveness barriers establish a framework for strategic thinking regarding the supply chain responsiveness, with academic and commercial implications.
Buyer behaviour for fast fashion
Authors: Bruce Margaret , Daly Lucy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to address the complex nature of fast fashion buying through case studies with a supermarket, department store and own brand label. The phenomenon of fast fashion raises questions about traditional approaches to sourcing and buying, which are addressed here.

Design/methodology/approach

Case studies were compiled with companies managing fast fashion, alongside other purchase and retail activities, namely a supermarket, department store and specialist fashion chain.

Findings

Reveals the buying practices for fast fashion, namely, a combination of global and local suppliers, a leagile approach is typical; trust is an important factor in the supplier‐retailer relationship to ensure fast delivery at an agreed quality; and integration of key internal activities and processes to facilitate the speed of buying decisions that may be required.

Originality/value

Gives insight into the factors affecting buying behaviour for fast fashion.
A mass customised supply chain for the fashion system at the design‐production interface
Authors: Pan Bernice , Holland Ray
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The objective of the research is to develop implementation strategies for producers at the fashion apparel supply chain upstream, in order to move towards a more coordinated, streamlined and responsive process.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative action research was conducted using non‐participatory observations on sampled producers, following a literature review on the design process and mass customization.

Findings

Main activities with contributing factors that funnel in and out of this crucial junction are mapped and broken down into a series of processes that involve producers' selection and customers' choice, where decisions are currently made based on informal correlation of supply push and demand pull, months ahead of end‐users' (“customers” hereon) real demand. Key “integrated decision points” where customers' input is identified and can be introduced into the outbound supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

This conceptual model offers the possibilities for implementing collaborative mass customization with reduced risk for producers and increased satisfaction for customers. However, producers' resistance to change from existing work methods may present potential obstacles. Further work is to be done on collecting, utilizing, and transforming customers' data in order to inform the total design process effectively and comprehensively.

Originality/value

The results of the “integrated decision pulse point map” proposed by this paper provide a threshold to the benefits of mass customization at the heart of the fashion system.
Knowledge integration in organizations: an empirical assessment
Authors: Kenney Jacqueline L. , Gudergan Siegfried P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide the results from empirically testing the effects of different combinations of organizational forms and combinative capabilities on the efficiency, scope and flexibility of firm‐level knowledge integration, given the influence of knowledge types and forms.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a case‐study methodology employed to collect data from ten firms of low, medium and high knowledge complexity environs; manual and automated data mining techniques were employed.

Findings

The findings suggest that organizational form and combinative capabilities explain the effects of efficiency, scope and flexibility on firm‐level knowledge integration. In turn, differences in knowledge types and forms necessitate the use of secondary combinative capabilities.

Research limitations/implications

While the study provides a coherent and detailed understanding of firm‐level knowledge integration and explain the development of a firm's knowledge architecture through organizational structures and synthesize existing literature contributing to an emergent understanding of the ambiguities surrounding combinative capabilities, further research identifying the effects of and relationship with the deep knowledge in combinative capabilities on strategic capabilities and a firm's knowledge vision would be beneficial.

Practical implications

Of practical relevance is the strategic and operational management implications detailing the specific organizational structures to achieve desired firm‐level knowledge integration capacity and manage particular integration efficiency, scope and flexibility requirements to enhance the development of architectural knowledge and, thus, firm capabilities.

Originality/value

The original contribution of this paper is reflected in providing empiric and theoretic insights, which directly address the specific combinations of organizational structures that influence integration process characteristics and thus accommodate differences in knowledge types and forms.
An adaptive strategy for managing knowledge in organizations
Authors: Sherif Karma
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This article proposes an adaptive strategy for managing knowledge in complex organizations. Specifically, this article aims to extend understanding in the field of knowledge management (KM) by examining how an adaptive strategy for managing knowledge can help organizations become innovative and build dynamic capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature on complexity theory and KM is reviewed to propose the development of an adaptive strategy that will assist organization in managing knowledge and becoming innovative. The paper is structured around the following constructs: complexity theory, complex adaptive systems, and KM.

Findings

A link between an adaptive strategy for managing knowledge, innovation and dynamic capability is established. The central proposition of the article is the organizations that follow adaptive complex processes for managing knowledge are better able to compete in the market today.

Research limitations/implications

This article extends prior research on KM by proposing complexity theory as a framework for establishing adaptive strategies for managing knowledge and fostering innovation.

Practical implications

With the dramatic environmental changes and fierce competition that organizations are faced with today, managing knowledge becomes critical for driving creativity and adapting to changing markets. Organizations lack direction on how best to develop an adaptive strategy for managing knowledge. The revelation of adaptive processes for managing knowledge in complex systems can lead to more effective KM practices and a higher rate of creativity and flexibility.

Originality/value

The study answers recent calls for defining processes for the second generation of KM that shift focus from the codification and transfer of knowledge to the creation of new knowledge. Although previous studies have established a link between complex adaptive systems and KM, this study takes it one step further in defining an integrative strategy for the creation of knowledge based on the processes of complex adaptive systems. The paper provides a foundation for future studies to test the causal relationship between adaptive processes for knowledge creation and innovation.
Narratives of knowledge and intelligence … beyond the tacit and explicit
Authors: Williams Roy
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to revisit the key terms in knowledge management (KM), particularly tacit and explicit, to develop a better framework for a theoretical and practical understanding of KM.

Design/methodology/approach

With the help of concepts like articulation and discourse, borrowed from applied linguistics, the relationships between data, information, the components of information in its various forms, knowledge and narrative are explored, to develop an integrated framework for the understanding of the complexities of the domain of knowledge management.

Findings

This study rovides a detailed assessment of the contribution of the tacit/explicit distinction to the KM debate. Develops new distinctions between formal and ante‐formal information, procedural information and contextual analysis, a model of the process of developing objective information, and a model of knowledge as an articulation of procedural information and contextual analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The usefulness of the framework will only be tested when it is applied in research and in management practice. This will depend on whether the concepts and terms introduced here find their way into more common usage.

Practical implications

The study provides a useful framework and set of tools for understanding and managing the various different aspects of information, knowledge, intellectual capital, and competitive intelligence.

Originality/value

The paper brings together concepts and analytical tools from different disciplines (KM, applied linguistics, semiotics) to develop a new framework for analyzing how the component elements of KM articulate with each other. In more detail, the paper unpacks the relationships between ante‐formal and formal information, procedural information and contextual analysis, the processes of objectification of information and the formation of knowledge, and the notion of knowledge as inherently narrative.
Strategic knowledge transfer and its implications for competitive advantage: an integrative conceptual framework
Authors: Carlos Bou‐Llusar Juan , Segarra‐Ciprés Mercedes
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to analyze the implications for competitive advantage deriving from strategic knowledge and knowledge transfer process.

Design/methodology/approach

One major issue in a knowledge‐based (KBV) view consists of delimiting the source of competitive advantage, that is, knowledge versus knowledge management processes (acquisition, transfer, generation). Based on the KBV and knowledge management literature, the current paper considers the importance of both elements. Specifically, the paper focuses on strategic knowledge and knowledge transfer process.

Findings

The contributions of this paper are the proposal of strategic knowledge characteristics and the suggestion of a theoretical framework to study the internal transfer of strategic knowledge. The main conclusion is that the characteristics of knowledge that generate competitive advantage also create barriers for internal transfer. The research question addressed here is what firms must do to transfer strategic knowledge within the firm while limiting involuntary transfer.

Originality/value

In order to answer this question, this paper suggests a theoretical framework that focuses not only on the implications of knowledge of a strategic asset, but rather takes a much broader perspective, considering the transfer process as a whole and highlighting the role of the different elements of this process (source, receiver and context) in order to facilitate the efficient transfer of strategic knowledge.
Factors influencing knowledge productivity in German research groups: lessons for developing countries
Authors: Wang Junxia , Peters Hans Peter , Guan Jiancheng
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at studying implicit knowledge management practices in research groups using a theoretical model of knowledge creation. The goal is to identify factors that contribute to high knowledge productivity. Based on the findings of a study of German research groups, implications for developing countries shall be discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 15 in‐depth face‐to‐face interviews with heads of German academic research groups in the field of physics were conducted. The questions referred to the current practices of knowledge creation and knowledge management and to the subjective assessments of these practices.

Findings

The study identified human resource management as the weakness of the German knowledge management practice. There seems to be an inherent contradiction between the goals of attracting promising students to a career in science and securing mobility. Knowledge management and infrastructure otherwise seems well‐developed and the heads of research groups consider themselves very important for knowledge productivity.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the small sample‐size and the limitation to only one research field and one country the results cannot be generalized. The survey thus has to be regarded as a pilot study.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information on factors influencing knowledge productivity in research groups.
Knowledge flows in self‐organizing processes
Authors: Laihonen Harri
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This article aims to point out the essential role of knowledge flows when studying new ways of organizing in a knowledge‐intensive service sector where organizations operate in rapidly changing markets. The purpose of this article is to analyze the concept of self‐organization and its basic characteristics from a knowledge flow point‐of‐view.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual analysis and literature review are provided.

Findings

The article offers a way to understand how self‐organization emerges from lower‐level or local interaction, i.e. knowledge flows. The results of earlier studies indicate that if experts working in customer interface are empowered to make independent decisions and to adjust their working according to the ongoing situation, i.e. to self‐organize, co‐operation with customers becomes more active.

Originality/value

The article presents a new way of looking at self‐organization and its basic characteristics as managerial tools in knowledge‐intensive organizations. The article brings up the fundamental role of knowledge flows in a self‐organization process.
Community of practice in a small research institute
Authors: Pavlin Samo
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to examine a community of practice (CoP) of a small research organization is examined and compare it with CoPs in large organizations that are broadly described in the literature of knowledge management..

Design/methodology/approach

The argumentation includes a case study of a small research institute (public), which performs the CoP related activity. For that purpose three community meetings were attended in the period of four months (attendance with observation). Five formal in‐depth interviews with the organizational staff (mostly with the CoP's coordinator) have been conducted.

Findings

The paper finds that a higher degree of community engagement, overlapping of organizational roles such as sponsor and coordinator, scare resources, more dispersed and heterogeneous membership are the main aspects that differentiate a community based on the social network of small organizations from a CoPs in large organizations.

Originality/value

The paper looks at CoPs from a different angle – asking whether CoPs in small organizations share the same theoretical characteristics as those in large organizations. As there is not much literature about the application of knowledge management in small organizations the theoretically‐based case study adds originality to the paper.
Knowledge management: securing the future
Authors: Randeree Ebrahim
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Increased focus on knowledge within firms has not addressed the security implication. This paper aims to examine the implications of knowledge management for security.

Design/methodology/approach

This approach highlights the competitive advantage of knowledge with an emphasis on security. This paper reviews security for data and information and explores the dimensions of secure knowledge systems. The emphasis is on knowledge security and the development of future knowledge management systems.

Findings

This paper finds that there exists a general lack of focus on security in the knowledge management framework – both in a research setting and in practical applications. Knowledge is different from information and data and needs special consideration in firms.

Research implications/limitations

Designers of knowledge management systems can implement levels of security for different types of knowledge that reside within the organization. The concept of “secure knowledge management” has provided nascent models to address the management and protection of knowledge resources. Information systems researchers that are investigating knowledge have to include the protection and security of knowledge.

Originality/value

Knowledge management has moved to the forefront of both the research and corporate agendas. Harnessing the information and knowledge contained within firm data warehouses is one method to achieve competitive advantage. Various types of knowledge require different solutions. Designers of knowledge management systems can implement levels of security for different types of knowledge that reside within the organization. Future developments need to address securing the knowledge of a corporation, its most valuable asset.
The use of multi‐attribute utility theory to determine the overall best‐in‐class performer in a benchmarking study
Authors: Collins Terry R. , Rossetti Manuel D. , Nachtmann Heather L. , Oldham James R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate the application of multi‐attribute utility theory (MAUT) to aid in the decision‐making process when performing benchmarking gap analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

MAUT is selected to identify the overall best‐in‐class (BIC) performer for performance metrics involving inventory record accuracy within a public sector warehouse. A traditional benchmarking analysis is conducted on 14 industry warehouse participants to determine industry best practices for the four critical warehouse metrics of picking and inventory accuracy, storage speed, and order cycle time. Inventory and picking tolerances are also investigated in the study. A gap analysis is performed on the critical metrics and the absolute BIC is used to measure performance gaps for each metric. The gap analysis results are then compared to the MAUT utility values, and a sensitivity analysis is performed to compare the two methods.

Findings

The results indicate that an approach based on MAUT is advantageous in its ability to consider all critical metrics in a benchmarking study. The MAUT approach allows the assignment of priorities and analyzes the subjectivity for these decisions, and provides a framework to identify one performer as best across all critical metrics.

Research limitations/implications

This research study uses the additive utility theory (AUT) which is only one of multiple decision theory techniques.

Practical implications

A new approach to determine the best performer in a benchmarking study.

Originality/value

Traditional benchmarking studies use gap analysis to identify a BIC performer over a single critical metric. This research integrates a mathematically driven decision analysis technique to determine the overall best performer over multiple critical metrics.
Role of human factors in TQM: a graph theoretic approach
Authors: Grover Sandeep , Agrawal V.P. , Khan I.A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To represent the effect of ‘human factors in total quality management (TQM) environment’ in terms of a single numerical index by considering their inheritances and interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

Various human factors affecting the TQM culture in an organization are identified and discussed for the sub factors affecting them. These factors are interacting with each other and their overall effect helps an organization in attaining TQM enabled needs. The paper attempts to represent the overall effect of human factors quantitatively by developing a mathematical model using graph theoretic approach. In this approach, interaction among identified human factors is represented through digraph, matrix model and a multinomial.

Findings

The extent of human aspects present in an organization, conducive to TQM culture is represented in terms of the “human index”. It provides an insight into the human factors at system and subsystem level. The developed procedure may be useful for self‐analysis and comparison among organizations.

Research limitations/implications

Since, human behaviour is difficult to predict, so are the human factors. The paper considers general factors, which may vary depending on type of organization, size of organization and geographical location. There is a scope of research in factor specific organizations.

Practical implications

It provides a useful methodology for organizations to assess human aspects and improve upon therein. Procedure for stepwise application of methodology is given with example that may help an industry to implement it.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to quantify the intangibles through systematic approach and is of value to industries to improve upon their work environment.