bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating the spare parts supply chain: an inter‐disciplinary account
Authors: Martin Harry , Syntetos Aris A. , Parodi Alejandro , Polychronakis Yiannis E. , Pintelon Liliane
Published: January 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to substantiate the need for additional research into a more holistic and multidisciplinary approach to managing the supporting supply chains that may also capture contextual information, also pointing out emerging avenues for further scholarly contributions.

Design/methodology/approach

The supply chain is viewed from a spare part consumer as well as from a supplier perspective. Key to the discussion is an accurate description of the maintenance demand pattern (MDP) known at the consumer's side as a valuable information source for the entire supply chain.

Findings

Solving the spare parts supply chain puzzle exceeds the realms of a single scientific discipline and involves hard and soft sciences. Besides, extending on the quantitative modelling aspects of MDPs, soft modelling and analysis is needed to define cooperative settings in which the supply chain parties can operate effectively.

Practical implications

In this paper, the authors argue for the sharing of the appropriately balanced combination of quantitative and qualitative information that is currently hidden, or exists in isolation, within supply chains. Debatably, such information sharing may potentially generate substantial benefits for all “players” within a given supply chain.

Originality/value

This contribution is unique in the sense that it provides a most accurate characterization of MDPs based on the proven maintenance concept design theory. In addition, the supply chain problem is analysed in a realistic context, with an open and broad mindset rather than approaching this issue from a single hard science perspective.
A framework for selection of material handling equipment in manufacturing and logistics facilities
Authors: Mohsen
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assist facility design practitioners, industrial managers, and expert systems (ES) developers identify important issues to consider and actions to follow in the selection of material handling (MH) equipment, overcome limitations of existing equipment selection approaches, and design complete MH systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework that specifies the steps that have to be taken in the selection of MH equipment is suggested. It identifies categories of equipment based on all handling‐related functions performed in a facility, which allows consideration of various categories of equipment, and selects equipment classes and types from among candidates based on user requirements and objectives.

Findings

The suggested framework is capable of producing a wide range of equipment that performs various functions in a facility, and satisfies requirements and objectives without the need for using large data bases. Applying it requires cooperation of facility managers and designers.

Research limitations/implications

Some of the steps of the suggested framework require further investigation and research.

Practical implications

Facility design practitioners, industrial managers, and developers of ES can make better selection among a large number of MH equipment and design complete systems by relying on functions performed in a facility, requirements, and objectives.

Originality/value

A framework for selection of MH equipment is lacking in the literature. This paper fills a gap by presenting design issues and organized steps that practitioners, managers, and expert system developers working on selection of MH equipment have to address and follow in order to design complete MH systems.
An examination of the differential effects of transportation in supply chain optimization modeling
Authors: Huq Faizul , Stafford Thomas F. , Khurrum S. Bhutta M. , Kanungo Saurajit
Published: January 2010

Purpose

It has been suggested that much of the potential inefficiencies associated with supply chain management (SCM) costs can be traced to wasteful practices such as inefficient, unnecessary, or redundant stocking practices, or inefficient transportation. The purpose of this paper is to develop a model which reconciles many of these inefficiencies by integrating production factors, purchasing, inventory, and trucking decisions for optimizing supply chain costs between first‐, and second‐tier suppliers and subsequent OEM customers.

Design/methodology/approach

The modeling technique is mathematical programming tested in a simulation model. In an effort to determine the significance of the transportation component of the proffered model, the fully developed model is differentially tested, including standard production variables varying transportation costs, paired with similar instances of the model in which the transportation costs are fixed.

Findings

Significant differences are found in the predictive abilities of the respective models, and this supplies pragmatic evidence of the important role that transportation issues play in the consideration of integrated SCM costs.

Research limitations/implications

The key limitation to this finding lies in the validation process. As suggested by Sargent, Monte‐Carlo studies are useful for validation purposes, and the supply chain optimization model (MHSCM) is certainly confirmed through this particular simulation.

Practical implications

The managerial focus on transportation management and cost control in SCM can be highlighted as a critical implication of the study.

Originality/value

The structure of the MHSCM is robust, and may be useful for cost‐control planning purposes in a dynamic environment, subject to certain limitations accruing to the methodology.
Accountability‐based order fulfillment process reengineering towards supply chain management
Authors: Zhang Linda L. , Jiao Roger J. , Ma Qinhai
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a methodology to industry and academia on how to reengineer the order fulfillment process (OFP) by capitalizing on integration and coordination across the entire supply chain to sustain supply chain management.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study at a semiconductor equipment manufacturer in Singapore is undertaken.

Findings

This paper confirms that the traditional OFPs present companies a challenge to satisfy the demanding customer requirements while achieving performance optimization of each supply chain partner; and it is imperative to reengineer the OFPs to stay competitive. To successfully reengineer OFPs, the efforts should be systematically organized to, for example, exploit potential processes as many as possible, determine an optimal process based on mathematically sound grounds.

Research limitations/implications

The use of a single case study may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Practical implications

A methodology incorporating accountability‐centered approach and simulation is developed for companies to reengineer OFPs while considering the entire supply chain.

Originality/value

The literature does not provide solutions for reengineering OFPs regardless of the fact that OFP reengineering is an emerging area of interest. This paper presents a valuable contribution to this topic by introducing a methodology and by applying the methodology to a semiconductor equipment manufacturer in Singapore.
Learning in multinational enterprises as the socially embedded translation of practices
Authors: Becker‐Ritterspach Florian , Saka‐Helmhout Ayse , Hotho Jasper J.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

With a few exceptions, the mainstream literature on learning in multinational enterprises (MNEs) has shown little concern for the transformational nature and the social constitution of learning. This paper aims to address this gap by drawing on Scandinavian institutionalism, social learning perspectives, and comparative institutionalism.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative case study of two subsidiaries of the same MNE was conducted. The subsidiaries received similar practices from headquarters (HQ) but displayed contrasting learning outcomes.

Findings

It is shown that learning outcomes differed based on the varying extent to which practices were translated, which depends on the participation of local actors. The difference in participation pattern, in turn, is rooted in differences in the institutional context of the two subsidiaries.

Research limitations/implications

It is recognized that apart from institutional influences, organizational idiosyncrasies may be at work. In addition, the paper briefly considers the extent to which the notion of contrasting forms of capitalism is still useful when comparing the German and British institutional contexts.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the importance of involving employees in the translation of new practices. A challenge for MNEs is that learning of new practices can differ by institutional context. Where enabling institutional conditions are absent, conscious effort may be needed to ensure employee participation.

Originality/value

This paper highlights that MNE practice transfer rests on the translation of the practice content to the local context, and that subsidiary‐level learning processes may be institutionally embedded, thus establishing a link between subsidiary learning and the macro‐level context. As such, this paper both illustrates the value of social learning perspectives and the relevance of the work of institutionalists for understanding MNE learning processes.
Lost in translation? Culture, language and the role of the translator in international business
Authors: Blenkinsopp John , Shademan Pajouh Maryam
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Issues of language in international business have been the focus of a growing body of theoretical and empirical work. This paper aims to contribute to this literature, focusing specifically on issues of translation. The role of translator will vary depending on the language strategy adopted, with strategies linked to differing perspectives on language in international business – mechanical, cultural and political. The paper examines these perspectives through the lens of a specific problem for transnational communication – “untranslatable” words and concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were conducted with professional linguists (translators and interpreters) to explore how they dealt with issues of untranslatable but cultural salient words in their day‐to‐day work with international businesses, using the problems of translating the Farsi word tarouf into English as a case in point.

Findings

The linguists agreed that tarouf was an untranslatable word, and described their strategies to deal with this problem. The commonest strategy was avoidance, stemming from linguists' concern to maintain their professional standing with clients, a finding which reflects an emerging emphasis on the importance of context and relationships for understanding inter‐cultural communication.

Practical implications

The study highlights the crucial role of the translator in international business, and draws attention to the potential for cross‐cultural communication problems arising from mutual lack of awareness of culturally‐salient but inherently untranslatable words or phrases.

Social implications

Effective inter‐cultural communication is an issue of great importance to wider society, and business has historically been the commonest site of such communication. The study highlights an issue of considerable importance for improving inter‐cultural communications, contributing to a growing inter‐disciplinary literature in this area.

Originality/value

Much of the research on language in international business has focused on the emergence of English as a lingua franca, but the present study focuses on specific issues of translation and does so in an under‐researched location, Iran. It draws attention to a problem of translation not widely discussed, and shows how important this issue can be for international business.
A response to “Reflections on a global financial crisis”
Authors: Hudson Robert , Maioli Sara
Published: January 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to draw out the main themes of the debate on the current financial crisis as published in the special issue of critical perspectives on international business Vol. 5 Nos 1/2 (2009) and place them in the context of subsequent events. It also considers what conclusions can be drawn both for future policy and for the conduct of future academic research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper overviews existing literature and summarises the main findings, focusing particularly on some topics deemed important and interesting for directing future research.

Findings

The paper finds that while the neoclassical approach to finance has evidently failed there is currently little consensus on how to replace it. This opens up the possibility of debate, new avenues for research and ultimately radical change.

Practical implications

The paper argues that more interactions between academic and finance practitioners are needed. Research in finance should be interdisciplinary or embed the insights from other disciplines and it should put behavioural finance under mainstream attention. The teaching of management and finance should also be more informed by issues of ethics, politics, social corporate responsibility, distribution of wealth and power and it should stimulate more critical and creative thinking.

Social implications

The authors argue that capitalism works well only when it is adequately regulated and when there is a solid mechanism of balancing and counterbalancing of powers among the major players. The paper therefore calls for a “democratisation” of capitalism, to stop the trend of growing global inequality and reverse the existent plutocratic capitalism.

Originality/value

The paper outlines several viewpoints and interpretations of the financial crisis taken from the extant literature and hence offers a reflection on several dimensions that shaped the crisis.
Usage of public corporate communications of social responsibility in Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC)
Authors: Alon Ilan , Lattemann Christoph , Fetscherin Marc , Li Shaomin , Schneider Anna‐Maria
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the status of corporate social responsibility (CSR) communications in Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC) nations. The four countries are among the biggest emerging markets, forecasted to have increasing influence in economic and political spheres. How these countries manage their corporate communication in regards to CSR is, thus, the focus of the investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper compares the extent and content of corporate communication with respect to CSR from a sample of over 100 companies from the BRIC nations by investigating the nature of CSR motives, processes, and stakeholder.

Findings

The results of the analysis show that CSR activities differ among BRIC nations with respect to CSR motives, processes, and stakeholder issues. China seems to be least communicative on a number of CSR issues.

Practical implications

The research shows that great variations exist in the implementation of CSR in BRIC nations. Even though India's GDP per capita is lower than that of China, for example, its communication of CSR is more intensive. This suggests that economic development alone cannot fully explain the differences in CSR communication. A full understanding of differences in CSR communications across BRIC is, thus, needed.

Originality/value

The paper is original in providing across BRIC country analysis of corporate communication relating to CSR activities.
Bank market concentration and interest spreads: South Asian evidence
Authors: Perera Shrimal , Skully Michael , Wickramanayake J.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether any deviations in South Asian banks' interest margins can be attributed to market concentration (MC) after controlling for other bank‐specific factors and exogenous environmental influences.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs an improved structural price‐concentration model with multiple definitions of market share (MS) covering loan and deposit markets. This model is estimated using generalized least squares method and random effect estimates are reported. The sample consists of 120 South Asian banks with a total of 1,226 bank‐year observations over 1992‐2005.

Findings

The findings suggest that no significant deviations in bank interest margins can be attributed to MC. Instead, only dominant South Asian banks with larger MSs are found to extract higher interest margins.

Research limitations/implications

This paper suffers from three main limitations: first, due to data limitations the sample only consists of South Asian domestic commercial banks. Second, due to the lack of product‐specific interest rates the authors have to contend with approximated bank‐specific interest margins. Third, throughout the study, annual bank‐specific data are used due to lack of high‐frequency data.

Practical implications

The regulators should closely monitor dominant banks with larger loan and deposit shares because these institutions operate with higher interest margins. Similarly, state‐owned banks (with relatively inefficient cost structures) should also draw regulatory attention for they extract higher interest margins, possibly, for survival.

Originality/value

The existing literature is extended by utilizing a pooled cross‐section and time series data model which controls for sample heterogeneity using proxies for cost structures, risk profiles and regulatory restrictions.
The effect of marketing knowledge management on organizational performance
Authors: Akroush Mamoun N. , Al‐Mohammad Samer M.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Appreciating the limited empirical research in the knowledge management (KM) field, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between marketing knowledge management (MKM) and performance in Jordanian telecommunications organizations (JTOs).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative methodology is adopted in which a model is developed, and hypotheses are stated, in order to examine the proposed relationship between MKM assets and capabilities and JTOs' performance. A highly structured questionnaire is developed and distributed to a sample of 339 managers in JTOs. With a response rate of 92 percent, 312 questionnaires are returned; the number of valid and usable questionnaires is 292. Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, MKM assets are classified into built‐ and invested‐in marketing assets, while MKM capabilities are classified into internal and external marketing capabilities. Furthermore, JTOs' performance is classified into three dimensions: market, customer, and financial performances. Structural equation modeling is utilised to test the stated hypotheses and model.

Findings

Empirical findings indicate that MKM assets and capabilities have a positive effect on the overall performance of JTOs, with all its dimensions. Built‐in marketing assets show the strongest influence on market performance, internal marketing capabilities show the strongest influence on customer performance, while external marketing capabilities show the strongest influence on financial performance. On the other hand and despite showing the least influence on financial and market performances, invested‐in marketing assets have maintained a positive relationship with all dimensions of JTOs' performance.

Practical implications

A holistic approach should be adopted when addressing MKM. MKM assets and capabilities should be applied collectively in a competitive manner that reflects on organizational performance. This requires constant consideration of available marketing assets and capabilities, with continuous investments in developing and acquiring marketing assets. While financial measures are generally used in assessing KM contribution, other non‐traditional measures should be applied in order to give a more realistic and holistic view of MKM contribution to organizational performance.

Originality/value

Focusing on MKM assets and capabilities, the paper introduces a new perspective of MKM in Jordan, as a developing country. While focusing on a special scope of KM, i.e. MKM, the paper provides further empirical support to the relationship between KM and organizations' multiple dimensions of performance. The fact that this is the first empirical study conducted in Jordan where KM research is relatively scarce, adds to its originality.
Beer in the Ukraine: consumer choice criteria
Authors: Khmel'nyts'ka Ol'ga , Swift Jonathan S.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the attitudes and behaviour of Ukrainian consumers in terms of the purchase of beer (both foreign and domestic brands). There is an emphasis on the relative importance of the country of origin (COO), when compared to other factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary research is based on a convenience sample of 774 beer drinkers in the city of Simferopol, Ukraine, surveyed through face‐to‐face questionnaires.

Findings

Findings suggest that the COO are important to consumers, as is image, and the role of advertising in the creation of this image and in informing as to product availability. However, the COO would appear to be of lesser importance than quality, taste, brand and availability. Respondents commented on the image of foreign beers and the excellent advertising campaigns created by international companies. The Ukrainian consumer is brand conscious and also displays intense patriotism‐reflected in the popularity of local beers. However, consumption patterns are changing, and the demand for foreign beers are growing rapidly.

Practical implications

This would suggest that any foreign company developing a market presence in the Ukraine, should seek to buy outright (or at least acquire part ownership) of a Ukrainian beer producer. This will provide an entrance into the market, and a production/distribution channel for international brands produced under licence. Ownership will also facilitate the importation and distribution of foreign‐produced branded beers.

Originality/value

There has been relatively little published research on the newly independent Ukraine, yet it has a sizeable population, and as such, represents attractive business opportunities. This attraction will increase with the country's likely accession to the EU in the near future.
Effectiveness of global advertisement on culture of India: an emerging market
Authors: Srivastava Rajesh Kumar
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find out whether a global advertisement will be effective and how it is perceived; is it affected by consumers' age, education, religion besides collectivism, and individualistic behavior?

Design/methodology/approach

Descriptive research involving 1,000 respondents. Global advertisements of fast moving consumer goods and consumer durable products are taken for study using questionnaire technique. The focus is to elucidate information on the perception of a global advertisement and how it will be affected by education, age, religion and collectivism, and individualistic behavior.

Findings

It is found that culture does affect the perception of global advertisement. Religion, age, and education do play a role in perception of global advertisement – they play an important role in buying intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to the Indian scenario and can be applicable to SARC countries or South‐East Asian countries as they are the fastest growing emerging world markets.

Originality/value

This is an original research paper and its findings could be important in minimizing wastage. India, Thailand, Brazil, China, and Russia are important emerging markets. Understanding their culture, education, age, and religion could improve global advertisements' effectiveness.
The role of cultural values in understanding the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in Nigeria
Authors: Mordi Chima , Simpson Ruth , Singh Satwinder , Okafor Chinonye
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the challenges female entrepreneurs face in the development of their business in the context of Nigeria. In so doing, it addresses a gap in the literature on the experiences of female entrepreneurs in a non‐Western context and acknowledges the contribution that women make in this area of work.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on survey data from 274 female entrepreneurs currently engaged in their businesses in three states – Lagos (Nigeria's largest city), Ogun and Oyo within the South West of Nigeria.

Findings

Results indicate that female entrepreneurs are generally confident and resourceful and that they enjoy the challenge of entrepreneurial activity. As in the West, they experience difficulties relating to family commitments and access to finance – as well as problems gaining acceptance and accessing networks.

Originality/value

It is argued that cultural values specific to the situation mean that these challenges, while common to female entrepreneurs in other national contexts, “play out” differentially and that they are experienced with different levels of depth and “intensity”. It is also argued that future research might uncover at a deeper level and drawing on qualitative methodology how some of the factors identified are experienced in women's day‐to‐day lives. The paper suggests some policy implications in the form of support for female entrepreneurs in this context.
The career progression of women in state government agencies
Authors: D'Agostino Maria , Levine Helisse
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the impact of the utilization of organizational practices on the career progression of women to executive positions in state‐level government organizations in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

The design included an online survey instrument sent to a purposive sample of 600 female administrative agency executives in 50 states. A standard multilinear regression model tests the predictive power of three composite explanatory utilization variables on the dependent variable, career progression of women to upper level management. The composite predictor variables are: utilization of work/family practices; utilization of diversity practices; and utilization of promotional practices.

Findings

Contrary to expectations, the relationship between career progression of women and family‐friendly utilization does not appear to be statistically significant. However, the time it takes respondents who utilized family‐friendly practices in their organizations to reach upper‐level management decreased by 0.037 years. And contrary to expectations, women who utilize promotion practices are more likely to achieve executive‐level status, even though it does not necessarily take them less time to do so.

Originality/value

This research is distinct from previous studies in that it considers the relationship between the utilization of practices and women's attainment of executive‐level positions.
Is gender inclusivity an answer to ethical issues in business? An Indian stance
Authors: Gill Suveera
Published: January 2010

Purpose

If females are more ethical than males, as the literature on the subject generally suggests, engaging and encouraging females in their careers would certainly promote an ethical environment. The present paper is motivated by such a viewpoint and aims to investigate gender‐based differences in the ethical disposition and the underlying dimensions in ethical decision‐making processes, by specific examination of business students.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research instrument is a quantitative questionnaire through which the responses of 162 business students (45 females and 117 males) are examined. For data analysis univariate analysis by invoking one‐way analysis of variance and multivariate approach using cluster analysis are conducted to investigate gender‐based differences in the ethical disposition. To determine the underlying dimensions in ethical decision‐making processes, for female and male business students, the principal axis approach to factor analysis has been used.

Findings

The findings provide evidence that female business students are more ethically predisposed than their male counterparts. It is further observed that males exhibit less diversity in ethical decision making while females more readily invoked different ethical dimensions for different business scenarios.

Originality/value

The paper offers valuable insight into the role of gender in ethics in the context of Indian business. The fact that females appear to demonstrate greater sensitivity on ethical issues suggests that practitioners may want to use this knowledge for developing their organizational strategies, ethical codes, and evaluation systems. Further, the study also highlights the importance of realigning the curriculum in a manner that the teaching of ethics becomes an integral part of business school education.
Contextualizing entrepreneurship in the boundaryless career
Authors: Hytti Ulla
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how the transition into entrepreneurship is constructed in the context of the boundaryless career. The paper focuses on a particular type of career transition driven by dismissal or unemployment.

Design/methodology/approach

The research material is collected in life‐story interviews with three Finnish female owner‐managers. In the study, a narrative analysis of the career move into entrepreneurship is conducted.

Findings

The results demonstrate how the concept of the boundaryless career and career discourse as such, and the personal career history and the larger employment setting in particular, are applied in making sense of the transition into entrepreneurship. The significance of dismissal or unemployment is not uniform, but is dependent on the participant's interpretation of the boundaryless career and work‐based security. Entrepreneurship is constructed both as a gender‐neutral and gendered process.

Research limitations/implications

The career perspective could be more widely applicable to research into entrepreneurship, and perceiving entrepreneurship as work could offer an interesting avenue for future interdisciplinary study within career research.

Practical implications

By portraying the transition from unemployment/redundancy into entrepreneurship as a normal career shift, entrepreneurship is potentially made accessible to a broader group of people including unemployed women. Narratives have potential to be applied as career management tools.

Originality/value

The paper provides a contextualised view of the transition into entrepreneurship after unemployment and demonstrates how the entrepreneurship process is connected to the individual work history, employment setting, and gender.
Hospitality technology: a review and reflection
Authors: Muller Christopher
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Technology is a combination of tools and crafts, a balance of hardware and software. Hospitality technology has advanced through innovation in the application of both machines and tools, and systems and organizations. The purpose of this paper is to offer perspective on past technological advancements and some predictions for those just on the horizon in the hospitality field.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the definition of technology and the changes that have occurred in the hospitality industry in relation to the technology used. It then goes on to make some forecasts about the use of technology for the future through past studies and an insight into the technology of today.

Findings

Technology is heading in a direction that will produce more dramatic change than at any time over the past 100 years. Expected changes are to turn the hospitality industry from the age of labor to the age of wireless – as equipment becomes more efficient, less labor will be required. As the consumers and employees become more wireless in their orientation, restaurants, and hotels must be accommodating to these changes.

Practical implications

Restaurants and hotels are adapting to technology at a slower pace than other organizations and that could mean problems as the technology continues to change at an extremely rapid rate over the next decade. The changes that are occurring will help with human resource practices in screening applications, bringing more knowledge of the brand to consumers and employees, processing of orders in a more efficient way, and eliminating some of the inefficiencies of old.

Originality/value

The paper takes a look at the past and projects the current scenario related to technology and hospitality into the future. Human resource practices will change as the technology for training and recruiting gets more cost‐effective, and guest services will improve as marketing can be done to the guests where they live – online and wireless.
Enterprise resource planning systems: revolutionizing lodging human resources management
Authors: Jackson Leonard A.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The e‐business revolution which the world experienced over the past decade is forcing businesses to review, re‐engineer, and revolutionize traditional approaches to running a successful enterprise. Globalization and competition have also made it essential for companies to find innovative ways to manage daily administrative tasks as smoothly, seamlessly, and cost‐effectively as possible. Companies are achieving such capabilities and efficiencies by adopting enterprise resource planning systems. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the fundamentals of enterprise resource systems and their practical application in the lodging industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the fundamentals of enterprise resource systems and discusses their practical applications in managing the human resources (HR) function of lodging enterprises.

Findings

The integration of company‐wide day‐to‐day HR administrative tasks through the use of enterprise resource systems results in both tangible and intangible benefits for lodging organizations. These include: improved productivity, reduced cycle times, and availability of timely information.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that the use of enterprise resource systems to consolidate and integrate routine HR functions will continue to grow and prudent lodging executives should pay close attention to this trend so that they can adopt the technology into their operations and enjoy the benefits it offers.

Originality/value

Both practitioners and educators will benefit from the information presented as it communicates information and provides insights about a relatively new form of technology.
Have human resource information systems evolved into internal e‐commerce?
Authors: Shani Amir , Tesone Dana V.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of technology on the human resources (HR) function in organizations, in general, and in hospitality firms, in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

The issue is presented through an extensive literature review, in addition to practical examples and demonstrations from the hospitality industry.

Findings

The literature clearly points to a substantial incorporation of technology in HR operations, to the extent that human resource information systems (HRIS) are perceived today as internal e‐commerce. This transition offers significant potential but also raises challenges and concerns. In addition, certain constraints often prevent HRIS from being utilized to their full potential, and therefore need to be addressed at the managerial level.

Practical implications

The review particularly raises the importance of managerial commitment to the successful performance of HRIS in organizations. In addition, suggestions for overcoming the barriers of the effective implementation of HRIS across HR functions are detailed throughout the paper.

Originality/value

The paper presents an important contemporary issue that has received very little attention in the hospitality and tourism literature. By providing a state‐of‐the‐art review on the potential contribution of HRIS to the industry, and elaborating on critical issues related to the topic, the paper can be of value for both HR educators and practitioners.
Key issues for ICT applications: impacts and implications for hospitality operations
Authors: DiPietro Robin B. , Wang Youcheng (Raymond)
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand several key issues regarding technology strategies for the lodging industry, including the use and impact of technology, technology adoption and implementation, the role of organization technology environment in technology use, channel management strategies, as well as future trends of technology development.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative interviews are conducted with hotel practitioners to gain knowledge in order to help explore issues and generate hypotheses for future research regarding information and communications technology (ICT) applications in the lodging industry.

Findings

The research finds that technology will continue to impact guest service and customer relationship management in the lodging industry, and that companies vary in their implementation and use of the technology applications.

Research limitations/implications

Using qualitative research limited the number of hotels that could be interviewed; as a result, the findings cannot be generalized to every hotel.

Practical implications

Hotel owners and managers can look at the various trends and determine which can help their guest service, focusing on providing added value to guests.

Originality/value

The paper provides insight from the viewpoints of practitioners rather than just from technology experts.
Towards a functional model of website evaluation: a case study of casual dining restaurants
Authors: Gregory Amy , Wang Youcheng (Raymond) , DiPietro Robin B.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and apply a conceptual model that can be used to evaluate the functional performance of hospitality and tourism websites. This model will evaluate the websites from the perspective of information provision, communication, transactions, relationships, and technological merit, and how that applies to overall website functionality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a case study methodology in order to evaluate a random sample of the top 400 casual dining restaurant chains of 2007. The casual dining restaurant segment is chosen because of its importance in the overall foodservice industry, as well as its predominant use of websites.

Findings

Restaurant websites appear to be fairly strong in providing information in a technologically savvy environment. The areas that are found to be lower in functional efficiency are communication, relationship, and transaction. The three lowest‐rated individual attributes of the websites studied in the current research are the use and functionality of banners, reservations, and language on the websites.

Research limitations/implications

As a case study, the limitations of this research are that the findings cannot be generalized to all restaurants because only a sample of casual dining chain restaurants is used. In addition, the model evaluated all of the components of the websites as being equal with the understanding that different website components weigh differently in their importance with consumers.

Practical implications

The implications of the paper are critical for website developers and hospitality organizations as the analysis shows that there is still a gap between customer perceptions of restaurant websites and the potential to use the website to engage and connect with guests. The paper will give industry practitioners some insight into the perceptions regarding the usability of their websites in order to allow the organizations to make changes accordingly.

Originality/value

The paper is pioneering in developing and proposing a conceptual model of website evaluation and applying this theory‐supported conceptual model to the casual dining chain restaurants website evaluation.
An HR perspective: the global hunt for talent in the digital age
Authors: Dickson Duncan R. , Nusair Khaldoon
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide the reader with a practical understanding of the dynamic changes in how résumés are handled by recruiters and the application of technology to the human resource (HR) functions not only of reading résumés, but also of how technology is making some of the initial decisions on how they are passed on to hiring managers. HR information system has changed the way talent is accessed, prescreened, sorted, and stored. Knowledge of these systems is imperative for the twenty‐first century job‐seeker.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interview industry practitioners regarding the use of résumé scanning and identify the pros and cons of the systems from an industry perspective.

Findings

These discussions find that technology will continue to impact HR group in the hospitality industry. As the HR teams find more and better ways to utilize the technology the applicant pool will have to adjust to ensure that they are not screened out because they are missing a “key word.”

Research limitations/implications

The ever changing technology makes the information dated immediately on publication. The implication is that the search and hiring process has changed so dramatically that awareness of technology is important.

Practical implications

Recruiters and job seekers must be aware of artificial intelligence, optical character recognition, and other scanning technologies. Understanding how technology is changing, even the most basic of HR practices is crucial.

Originality/value

The paper presents a discussion about the new technologies being used in the job search and résumé‐handling process, as well as the industry practitioner opinion of the uses and benefits of the technology.
Restaurants and technology – past, present and future: a practitioner's viewpoint
Authors: Doran Doug
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a practitioner perspective on the impact of technology on restaurant operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the development of technology and its application to restaurant operations, as viewed by a senior practitioner. It offers a viewpoint on the current state of development and the future developments that are needed and expected.

Findings

The paper cites significant examples of technological innovation over a period of some 30 years and discusses the impact of technology on restaurant operations, organization, and management.

Practical implications

The paper aligns technological advances with the experiences of a senior professional's personal experience in operating and managing restaurants throughout a period of sustained technology change.

Originality/value

The paper offers a strategic viewpoint on the evolving nature of restaurant operations and the various ways in which technological innovation is driving new applications and change in the restaurant sector.
Weighing the option of biometrics in the hospitality industry
Authors: Warren Kelly
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a practitioner perspective on the growing influence and impact of biometric technology on the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the different types of biometric authentication and its uses in hospitality operations and explores current and future applications in providing secure and safe guest services.

Findings

The paper cites examples of technological innovation and discusses the implications of biometric authentication for hospitality operations, organization, and management.

Practical implications

The paper aligns technological advances with the experiences of a senior professional's personal experience in operating and managing restaurants.

Originality/value

The paper offers a strategic viewpoint on the potential range of applications for biometric verification and explores some of the complexities arising from its adoption and application to hospitality operations.
Summary
Authors: DiPietro Robin B. , Wang Youcheng (Raymond)
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this summary is to review the question: What have we learned about the impact of technology in hospitality operations?

Design/methodology/approach

The summary considers the contribution made by each theme issue article to an overall understanding of the impact of technology – past, present and future – on human resource practices and in terms of monitoring guest satisfaction in hospitality operations.

Findings

The summary cites examples of technological innovation and discusses the implications of biometric authentication for hospitality operations, organization, and management.

Practical implications

The paper summarizes the types of change that are being driven by developments in technology and comments on the operational implications.

Originality/value

The paper interlinks with the editorial and provides a concise review of the range of innovations that are continuing as a direct result of advances in technology.
Molecular pathways during marine fish egg hydration: the role of aquaporins
Authors: Cerdà J.
Published: January 2010

The pre‐ovulatory hydration of the oocyte of marine teleosts, a unique process among vertebrates that occurs concomitantly with meiosis resumption (oocyte maturation), is a critical process for the correct development and survival of the embryo. Increasing information is available on the molecular mechanisms that control oocyte maturation in fish, but the identification of the cellular processes involved in oocyte hydration has remained long ignored. During the past few years, a number of studies have identified the major inorganic and organic osmolytes that create a transient intra‐oocytic osmotic potential for hydrating the oocytes, whereas water influx was believed to occur passively. Recent work, however, has uncovered the role of a novel molecular water channel (aquaporin), designated aquaporin‐1b (Aqp1b), which facilitates water permeation and resultant swelling of the oocyte. The Aqp1b belongs to a teleost‐specific subfamily of water‐selective aquaporins, similar to mammalian aquaporin‐1 (AQP1) that has possibly evolved by duplication of a common ancestor and further neofunctionalization in oocytes of marine teleosts for water uptake. Strikingly, Aqp1b shows specific regulatory domains at the cytoplasmic tail, which are key to the vesicular trafficking and temporal insertion of Aqp1b in the oocyte plasma membrane during the phase of maximal hydration. These findings are revealing that the mechanism of oocyte hydration in marine teleosts is a highly regulated process based on the interplay between the generation of inorganic and organic osmolytes and the controlled insertion of Aqp1b in the oocyte surface. The discovery of Aqp1b in teleosts provides an important insight into the molecular basis of the production of viable eggs in marine fish.
Molecular phylogeny of the Cobitoidea (Teleostei: Cypriniformes) revisited: position of enigmatic loach Ellopostoma resolved with six nuclear genes
Authors: Chen W.‐J. , Lheknim V. , Mayden R. L.
Published: January 2010

Molecular variation in six nuclear genes provides substantive phylogenetic evidence for the recognition of a new cypriniform family, the Ellopostomatidae, to include the enigmatic Southern Asia loach genus Ellopostoma. The current six loach families form a monophyletic group, with the Nemacheilidae as the sister group to Ellopostomatidae; Vaillantellidae forms the sister group to all families exclusive of Botiidae. While the superfamily Cobitoidea includes eight families, the monophyly of this large clade within the Cypriniformes remains a vexing problem despite extensive molecular analyses and is in need of further investigation.