bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrofitting commercial office buildings for sustainability: tenants' perspectives
Authors: Miller Evonne , Buys Laurie
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Buildings, which account for approximately half of all annual energy and greenhouse gas emissions, are an important target area for any strategy addressing climate change. Whilst new commercial buildings increasingly address sustainability considerations, incorporating green technology in the refurbishment process of older buildings presents many technical, financial and social challenges. This paper aims to explore the social dimension, focusing on the perspectives of commercial office building tenants.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with seven residents and neighbours of the case‐study building undergoing green refurbishment in Melbourne, Australia. Responses were analysed using a thematic approach, identifying categories, themes and patterns.

Findings

Commercial property tenants are on a journey to sustainability. Tenants are interested and willing to engage in discussions about sustainability initiatives, but the process, costs and benefits need to be clear.

Research limitations/implications

The findings, while limited by non‐random sampling and small sample size, highlight that the commercial property market is interested in learning about sustainability in the built environment.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the importance of developing a strong business case and transition plan for sustainability in commercial buildings. As sustainable buildings become mainstream, tenants predicted the emergence of a “non‐sustainability discount” for residing in buildings without sustainable features.

Originality/value

This research offers a beginning point for understanding the difficulty of integrating green technology in older commercial buildings. Tenants currently have limited understandings of technology and potential building performance outcomes, which ultimately could impede the implementation of sustainable initiatives in older buildings.
Regional Centres of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development (RCEs): an overview
Authors: Mochizuki Yoko , Fadeeva Zinaida
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer an overview of the United Nations University's Regional Centres of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development (RCE) initiative–the global process created to support the implementation of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD, 2005‐2014)–and discuss the roles of institutions of higher education (IHEs) in RCE efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a historical overview of the RCE initiative, clarifies the philosophy behind it, and describes the guiding principles for RCE establishment and operations.

Findings

The paper reveals the UNU's views about effective strategies to promote Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and discusses the roles of IHEs as partners within and among RCEs. Highlights the potential roles of IHEs in overcoming the compartmentalization of knowledge and linking policy and practice.

Research limitations/implications

The paper recognises that RCE is an evolving concept and calls attention to the RCE process as a promising example of “social learning” and “communities of practice”, and at the same time, of “knowledge management system”.

Practical implications

The paper clarifies the expected functions of RCEs as multi‐sectoral and interdisciplinary partnerships and “local‐regional knowledge base” and exhorts local ESD stakeholders, including higher education institutions to use RCEs as value‐adding learning networks at the local and global levels.

Originality/value

The paper refines the RCE concept and offers practical advice to RCEs and RCE candidates. Opportunities are indicated for higher education institutions in contributing towards ESD and sustainable development through RCEs.
Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Graz‐Styria
Authors: Mader Clemens , Zimmermann Friedrich M. , Steiner Gerald , Risopoulos Filippina
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present how the Regional Centres of Expertise (RCE) Graz‐Styria as well as RCEs as instruments can contribute to regional development. The RCE Graz‐Styria is representing a case study of Central European RCEs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the development process of RCE Graz‐Styria. Regional challenges to strengthen sustainable regional development have been investigated by literature review and interviews with regional actors.

Findings

The paper discusses challenges of establishing an RCE and describes how an RCE can face regional and global challenges by innovative actions.

Practical implications

The paper provides an insight of the establishment of the RCE Graz‐Styria. Readers who would like to establish an RCE in their own region can learn from the process of RCE Graz‐Styria. The reader has to take into account that the regional challenges might be different, and thus the RCE Graz‐Styria is a role model regarding its management structure for RCEs based at universities.

Originality/value

By 2008 and since 2006, every year more than ten new RCEs have been officially acknowledged by the United Nations University. Specially for those new RCEs coming in the next years, which can learn from reading about different management structures and different challenges experienced by different RCEs. For already established RCEs, RCE case studies are useful not only for learning from other RCEs but also for getting in contact with RCEs with common interests and initiating common projects.
Educational alliance for a sustainable Toronto
Authors: Leman Stefanovic Ingrid
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the role that the University of Toronto has had in helping to establish a Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development in Toronto, Canada. The way in which the RCE initiative has helped to move forward the university's own five‐year plan will also be discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a historical overview of the development of the Toronto RCE, acknowledging the diverse range of NGO, governmental and educational institutions that collaborate within this network. It then describes how the RCE initiative is helping to advance the objectives of the University of Toronto's own five‐year plan. Finally, the paper details how the University of Toronto has supported specific projects of the RCE, and where it hopes to help to lead the RCE into the next phase of its development.

Findings

In addition to presenting a case study of an RCE, the paper includes critical discussion of broader conceptual issues, such as how one might best interpret “interdisciplinarity” and community “outreach” in a university setting.

Originality/value

The UN University's RCE is, in itself, a highly original and valuable initiative. The paper describes one of these networks and its own, unique focus, while also drawing conclusions about how universities might more actively engage with community partners to advance environmental awareness.
Working in the action/research nexus for education for sustainable development
Authors: Tormey Roland , Liddy Mags , Maguire Helen , McCloat Amanda
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Higher education has a key role and responsibility in creating change and addressing issues of fundamental human concern such as inequality and social justice, globalisation and development, environmental protection and sustainability. The purpose of this paper is to describe how RCE‐Ireland, established in September 2007, aims to develop awareness and engagement with these realities and ensure they become integrated into education in Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

Action research is based on a cyclical process of action, observation, reflection and adaptation, and has been adopted by RCE‐Ireland as key to reorienting the practice of education towards sustainability. Two case studies of action research projects are the focus of the paper: Critical Thinking in Large Scale Lectures, University of Limerick, and Reorienting Course Content towards Ethical and Ecological Consumerism, St Angela's College, Sligo. The methodologies employed include both qualitative and quantitative data collection, and address critiques of action research while remaining true to the aims of democratic teaching and engaged scholarship.

Findings

The case studies demonstrate action research as a valuable and valid research methodology in itself, as well as recognising its appropriateness in reorienting education towards sustainability. The University and University‐based educationalists have a unique role here by linking research and practice, blurring the boundaries of research as objective and value‐free, and in demonstrating innovation and leadership in addressing global challenges and human concerns.

Originality/value

The University can provide opportunities for reorientation towards sustainability, as well as presenting challenges to this work. There is much evidence that higher education settings find it more difficult to adjust their practices than to adjust their content. One approach to engender such change in practice is the promotion of action research in higher education settings, where the twin roles of the academic practitioner as teacher and as researcher are brought together to adapt educational practice.
Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Rhine‐Meuse: a cross‐border network
Authors: Rikers Jos H.A.N. , Hermans Jos H.C.L.M.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the case of the cross‐border RCE Rhine‐Meuse established as the first Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development in Europe. RCE Rhine‐Meuse is an initiative of two institutions of higher education in the South of The Netherlands, but reaching out to the German and Belgian border regions.

Design/methodology/approach

The case of the RCE Rhine‐Meuse is used to give a comprehensive description of the building of a multi‐national and multi‐stakeholder collaboration network aiming at knowledge dissemination on education for sustainable development. The regional approach is complementary to the global approach behind the RCE network.

Findings

The development of the RCE Rhine‐Meuse over the last two years, shows the development of a functional RCE as described by United Nations University. A regional network for collaboration in the field of learning for sustainable development is created. The governance of the RCE is stable and the activities create an added value to the development of the region.

Practical implications

The case of the RCE Rhine‐Meuse does not provide a blue‐print for setting up an RCE like network. What the case of the RCE Rhine‐Meuse does show, is the influence of the regional context on the development of the RCE. In addition, the RCE Rhine‐Meuse does provide general notions that can be of use for other regions that want to establish an RCE.

Originality/value

The case of the building of the oldest RCE in Europe over the period 2004‐2008 provides the first comprehensive overview of the creation of a new mechanism that is focussing on knowledge transfer to further regional sustainable development.
Mutual learning for sustainability
Authors: Ferrer‐Balas D. , Buckland H.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) and RCE‐Barcelona in the context of two organisations with a strategic aim to further Education for Sustainable Development. A special emphasis is put in the role that UPC has had in the creation and development of this project, understood as a regional, multisectorial network that aims to reinforce the Universities' own commitment and leadership in ESD.

Design/methodology/approach

Two main methodological approaches are used. The evolution of RCE strategic projects in its two years of existence is analysed through the FLA systems approach, while the demand on ESD (and particularly that of the Education and Sustainability Magazine) in the region is explored through an electronic questionnaire sent to 1,000 people.

Findings

The study shows that the strategy of RCE Barcelona has evolved from a focus on diversity of participation to concrete activities based on common objectives with the communication of outputs rather than structures as being more practical and effective. The production of a magazine with input from actors from different levels of education and diverse sectors (based around key sustainability themes) is proving to be a useful resource for educators. Shared governance of the network and a more balanced share of resources and responsibilities amongst members remain a challenge, and as with other RCEs there is still limited evidence of the added value of being part of the global network of RCEs.

Originality/value

This study uses a systems based analytical methodology which is adaptable to the context of any sustainability initiative within higher education. The initiation of a thematic‐based sustainability magazine targeted at educators of formal and non formal education is considered as an innovative initiative.
Why and how do universities work for sustainability in higher education (HE)?
Authors: Axelsson Harriet , Sonesson Kerstin , Wickenberg Per
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to open up a discussion about the roles and responsibilities of universities in society.

Design/methodology/approach

The vision of the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Skane a leading example on how to develop new knowledge about education for sustainable development (ESD) at all levels. The paper poses the question “Why do universities involve in this process?”. Lund University as the old, traditional university and the ten‐year old university of Malmö on the other hand was formed on the bases of a vision about a university for all people.

Findings

The paper finds that two universities have been active in creating RCE Skane, together with three political organizations. The vision has developed to include issues like capacity for cross‐boundary action, knowledge‐sharing and civic education, all important parts in learning for a sustainable future.

Practical implications

The paper discusses the processes at these universities that led up to working together in RCE Skåne and the importance of having the Act on Higher Education in 2006 about responsibility for education for sustainability at all universities.

Originality/value

In forming RCEs all over the world it is important to learn from each other and universities play an important role in these actions.
Contribution of Kobe University to the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Hyogo‐Kobe
Authors: Itoh Masayuki , Suemoto Makoto , Matsuoka Koji , Ito Atsushi , Yui Kiyomitsu , Matsuda Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Masanobu
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on education for sustainable development (ESD) Hyogo‐Kobe, and the contribution of Kobe University as a model case. An attempt to develop and implement a new ESD programme in higher education is also reported.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief description of RCE Hyogo‐Kobe, which was approved in 2007, is followed by the description of the contribution of Kobe University to the RCE's starting phase to date and in the near future. The initiative of establishing the RCE as well as the design and implementation of the ESD programme developed through the collaboration of three faculties: the Faculty of Human Development, the Faculty of Letters, and the Faculty of Economics. The programme focuses on students carrying out participatory action research enabled by collaboration with regional stakeholders on ESD and SD.

Findings

Interdisciplinary collaboration was found to be essential in creating an innovative education programme in higher education. Activities and projects on ESD that existed earlier played important roles in the initiative, in formation of the network, and in directing RCE activities.

Originality/value

Information from the case study will be useful in the establishment and development of an RCE through the initiative of an institute of higher education.
Regional Centre of Expertise as transformational platform for sustainability
Authors: Abidin Sanusi Zainal , Khelghat‐Doost Hamoon
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the experience of Universiti Sains Malaysia in promoting the sustainable development agenda through its leadership role in the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Penang using an “inside‐out approach”.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes the institutional structure, policies and programme within the campus, and activities carried out with the surrounding community to promote sustainable development.

Findings

Being part of the RCE network provides various reciprocal benefits. One, it provides a greater opportunity and an impetus for the university to transform itself into an agent of sustainable development. Two, it serves as an excellent platform for the university‐community partnership programme which brings the two closer together. Three, it improves the university's reputation and allows it to participate in regional and global discussions on sustainability and the sustainable development agenda.

Practical implications

This paper provides an example of establishing and promoting education for sustainable development through university research, teaching and learning as well as community engagement.

Originality/value

The format of the main discussion is offered as a potential model for adoption by others engaged in education for sustainability.
An appraisal of analytic network process and its role in sustainability assessment in Northern Italy
Authors: Bottero Marta , Mondini Giulio
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to assess an urban transformation project in Italy, from a sustainability point of view. Taking into consideration alternative solutions for the project (zero option, initial project and final project), the paper highlights the most important elements for the sustainability evaluation and the best solution for the transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The sustainability assessment of the transformation project is performed using a particular multicriteria analysis, the analytic network process (ANP). Multi‐criteria techniques provide a useful support when a choice must be made among several alternatives with different objectives and criteria and also allow one to include tangible and intangible factors in the evaluation. The ANP is used to derive relative priority scales of absolute numbers from individual judgments and it offers a general framework to deal with complex decisions which provides a comparison of the different options.

Findings

The priority list of the alternatives gives a great deal of importance to the final project, with respect to the other possibilities. With reference to the most relevant criteria for the sustainability of the project, the problems related to energy efficiency, the aspects concerning the landmark and the new services for the inhabitants were given the most importance.

Practical implications

The procedure described in the paper is suitable for dealing with the complexity of the problem, in a transparent way, taking into consideration the multiplicity of the aspects involved and the presence of several stakeholders in the decision‐making process.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first examples of the application of the ANP to the field of urban transformation at an international level.
Direct and indirect impact of the tourism industry on drylands: the example of Southern Tunisia
Authors: Dłuzewska Anna
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to attempt to answer the question of how tourism influences the behaviours connected with natural environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on the example of the attitude towards water usage among indigenous inhabitants of the Douz, Tozeur and Nefta oases in southern Tunisia. The research was conducted on the basis of the methodology of cultural anthropology, such as indirect and direct observation, verified in the time period between 1983 and 2006, partially categorized questionnaire interviews with natives of Douz, Tozeur and Nefta oases (43 people altogether). A supplement to the questionnaire interviews with natives was the research conducted in a group of hotel managers and tourists. As far as the information on water economy is concerned the author's work is grounded on research conducted simultaneously in the same area by another team as well as on a research conducted in similar environmental conditions.

Findings

The development of the tourism sector in the south of Tunisia started simultaneously with investments in artesian wells and pipelines transporting water to irrigate the oases. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate explicitly to what extent the behaviours concerning water economy were influenced by the investments and to what extent by tourism. Tourism has, however, undoubtedly the function of a “starting factor” which initiated a change in the traditional attitude towards water. As a result, the behaviours of indigenous inhabitants of the dry areas are subject to violent transformation – the highest water usage (often water waste) is observable in the agricultural sector, not in the tourism sector. It is worth emphasizing that the fatal consequences are often provoked not by the tourists' behaviours, but by the behaviour of the hotel staff – frequent filling of swimming pools, excessive watering of hotel gardens – which is being observed by indigenous inhabitants.

Practical implications

The lack restrictions concerning water consumption may undoubtedly lead to “self‐destruction of tourism”. Tunisian Government should definitely intervene in these matters (e.g. through the introduction of water usage restrictions for hoteliers).

Originality/value

Showing the interconnections between the development of the tourism sector specializing in mass tourism services and increased water consumption in the agricultural sector in dry areas.
An analysis of product properties affecting performance of end‐of‐life systems for electrical and electronics equipment
Authors: Johansson Glenn , Huge Brodin Maria
Published: October 2008

Purpose

On the basis of empirical studies, the purpose of this paper is to identify and analyse product properties that affect performance of end‐of‐life systems for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out as case studies of end‐of‐life management of EEE. Case A focused on disassembly of computer screens and TV‐sets, whereas Case B addressed logistics systems for recycling of various types of EEE. Data collection methods include interviews, on‐site visits and observations, video recording, and studies of documents.

Findings

In total, nine product properties that affect performance of end‐of‐life systems for EEE are identified. The properties relate to three different product levels: the product assortment, the product structure, and the component levels. A model is presented which indicates that choices made and decisions taken in the product development process affect the end‐of‐life system performance. Application of modular product architectures and component standardisation are suggested as relevant design strategies during product development.

Practical implications

The implications for managers are that the findings presented in this paper provide strengthened arguments that modular product architectures and component standardisation are favourable approaches to apply in product development. Complementary to the benefits for manufacturing and logistics also end‐of‐life system performance will improve when these approaches are applied.

Originality/value

Previous research has indicated some product properties that are supposed to influence performance of end‐of‐life systems. These properties originate primarily from conceptual discussions rather than empirical studies. This paper adds to current understanding by presenting empirically‐based insights regarding which specific product properties affect performance.
An assessment of energetic efficiency improvement of existing building envelopes in Italy
Authors: Brunoro Silvia
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to remark the importance of sustainable technologies in the façade renewal of existing buildings in order to fit their energetic performance to different climatic inputs, following the new European Energy Standards for energy savings.

Design/methodology/approach

Technical data and typical examples of upgrading interventions in the direction of the passive solar gaining, natural cooling and other relevant sustainable technologies for building envelopes are presented and critically examined.

Findings

The energy failure in existing buildings is mainly due to the poor insulating efficiency of the façades. Making use of hi‐tech envelopes, not only the energetic balance, but also the architectural value of a building can be improved.

Practical implications

Architects and builders can use the advices from this study in determining the advantages of up‐to‐date technologies in the enhancement of the energetic performance of buildings.

Originality/value

Examples presented in this paper indicate how sustainable technologies, that are commonly used in new constructions where the concept starts from a low‐environmental impact, can be also employed in the refurbishment of existing buildings, which is the main challenge for the global reduction of CO2. An overview on the main technical of intervention can indicate to architects and planners the potentiality for the improvement of the existing buildings, in order to reduce the overall energy balance.
Managing Lake Kariba sustainably: threats and challenges
Authors: Tumbare Michael James
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to communicate and share experiences with stakeholders on how the sustainability threats and challenges associated with managing Lake Kariba and the Kariba Dam wall are being managed by the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA).

Design/methodology/approach

The case study area is Lake Kariba and Kariba Dam wall located in the mid‐Zambezi river basin. The data and information for the case study is from ZRAs own records.

Findings

The case study concludes that the threats and challenges so far experienced have been mitigated adequately with management programmes and tools having been put in place. However, a lot still needs to be done to improve the socio‐economic living conditions of the displaced Tonga/Korekore people.

Originality/value

Lake Kariba was created in the late 1950s to provide water primarily for hydro‐power production. However, this water resource now serves many users and has its sustainability threats; invasive weeds, water pollution, cyclic drought and flood events, the competing uses and multiple legislative provisions. The Kariba Dam wall, as an engineering structure, has its own sustainability challenges; effects of alkaline aggregate reaction, the spillway plunge pool stability and the general ageing of the dam structure. The Tonga/Korekore people, who were displaced on both banks of the Zambezi River when Kariba Dam was built, still feel short‐changed. Stakeholders will be able to associate and relate to similar threats, challenges and experiences and use the management solutions being applied at Kariba. The opinions and conclusions drawn in this case study are those of the author.
Corporate governance research: a contingency framework
Authors: Dedman Elisabeth , Filatotchev Igor
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this editorial is to discuss the problems inherent in examining the effectiveness of corporate governance without explicit consideration of the environment faced by firms. It advocates a contingency approach to the research area, illustrating its ideas by reference to the research papers contained in this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses several papers in the literature, placing the papers in this special issue in context, and making recommendations for future research.

Findings

It is apparent that the mixed results from the vast body of research in corporate governance are potentially due to failure to adequately consider all factors affecting optimal governance practice.

Research implications

Researchers should beware of assuming research findings from one environment will be replicated in another environment.

Policy implications

Policy makers should not assume that transferring “best practice” from one regime to another will lead to the same outcomes
Creating knowledge‐based innovation in China
Authors: Lu Lucy
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This research paper attempts to address the strategic challenges of developing knowledge‐based innovation (KBI) in China through the analysis of the triple helix (TH) innovation networks between university, government and industry in China. In so doing, the TH model is adopted as an analytical framework to investigate the format and operations of knowledge networks within university, government and industry during the economic transitions in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper incorporates field observation, interviews with senior government officials, desk research on various government policy document as well as critical review of the existing literature related to KBI and the TH model in order to build up the strategic overview of the current state of KBI in China.

Findings

Based on the critical literature review and interviews, it is identified that the formation and operation of knowledge production system in China on the one hand reflects the three dimensions within TH model: normative control (government), wealth generation (industry) and novelty production (university and public research institutions), on the other hand highlights dynamic institutional interactions and transformational processes in creating the knowledge economy. The key factors that have an effect on the inter‐institutional relations and evolutions of different knowledge functions within the TH innovation networks, have also been identified and manifested in the proposed theoretical framework of the knowledge production system in China.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper rests in addressing the strategic implications of TH innovation model for developing KBI in China, and highlighting the challenges facing both policy makers and innovation managers in terms of managing the organizational and institutional changes during the process of knowledge creation.
A multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment
Authors: Zhang Jing , Daim Tugrul U. , Choi Byung‐Chul , Phan Kenny
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment, apply it to mobile broadband technologies selection in China and give recommendations based on the assessment results.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment using HDM is developed based on literature review and experts suggestions. Data are collected from a survey on China telecom experts.

Findings

TD‐SCDMA got the highest score because of its potential political and social effects, and WCDMA and CDMA2000 following with close scores. While for WiMAX and 4G, Chinese experts showed relatively lack of confidence.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new multiple‐perspective model that can be generally applied to technology assessment problems at organizational level.
Breaking into China's design and construction market
Authors: Zou Patrick X.W. , Wong Alison
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aims of this research are to identify the opportunities and risks and develop effective business strategies for foreign design and construction management companies to penetrate into the Chinese market.

Design/methodology/approach

Ten interviews with directors of design, construction and engineering firms who are operating in China were carried out. It also include a literature review.

Findings

The results show that the interviewees were very optimistic about the China market and believed that establishing wholly foreign‐owned enterprises was the most effective entry mode. The research also found that “differentiation strategy by providing niche or superior products or services” is the fundamental and best strategy for penetrating into China market. In addition, the research found that the foreign companies must cultivate a network of contacts (i.e. Guanxi) and be culturally adaptive to have a competitive advantage in China.

Originality/value

this paper is original in that it provides insight from the first hand face‐to‐face interviews who have been operating successfully in the Chinese market. With the entry to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and its rapid economy growth, China presents the world enormous opportunities virtually in every industry sector including the design, and construction industry. Due to the complex and dynamic nature of the Chinese market, there are risks associated with these opportunities. The foreign companies entering into China market must develop capability to assess the opportunities, analyse the risks, and make informed decisions concerning market entry mode and business development strategies.
The effects of country‐of‐origin on Chinese consumers' wine purchasing behaviour
Authors: Hu Xiaoling , Li Leeva , Xie Charlene , Zhou Jun
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This research is designed to explore Chinese customers' wine purchasing behaviours and to investigate the effect of country‐of‐origin (COO) information on their wine evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from the shopping malls both in Shanghai and Hangzhou, China, using the systematic sampling method. A total 148 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed by SPSS.

Findings

The results confirmed that Chinese customers consider COO as the most important factor in their wine evaluation when a single‐cue approach is applied. When a multi‐cue approach is used however the results showed that there was no significant difference in the importance in COO and price as indicators. This research also revealed some salient characteristics of Chinese consumers buying behaviour associated with Chinese culture. When the Chinese are evaluating wine for gift giving and consuming wine in public, they tend to attach more importance to COO than to other variables and are more likely to purchase foreign or imported wine instead of domestic brands.

Research limitations/implications

Only respondents from Shanghai and Hangzhou were chosen, limiting the representativeness of the sample. Future research will be benefited from increased sample size from different geographical regions and by examining the relationship between the consumer demographic characteristics and the COO effects.

Originality/value

The results from this study stand in contrast to previous studies relating to the role of COO in product evaluation. It illustrates the importance of culture in relation to COO.
Developing a route to market strategy for mobile communications in rural India
Authors: Anderson Jamie
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges of reaching low‐income customers in developing markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured Interview.

Findings

The paper suggests that managers need to go beyond traditional approaches to serving the poor, and innovate by taking into account the unique institutional context of developing markets.

Research limitations/implications

Single interview.

Practical implications

The experience of Hutchison Essar in India provides some important lessons for mobile network operators (MNOs) and other firms in other developing markets who are hoping to serve the rural poor: Hutchison has recognized the value of corporate and non‐corporate partners. The company has proactively established relationships with individual entrepreneurs, and has provided has provided development support to other partners such as distributors. The company has recognized the value of leveraging existing local institutions, and has seen gaps in local infrastructure or missing services as potential opportunities rather than barriers to growth. The company has seen the rural market as an opportunity – not just an obligation to be served because of universal service obligations.

Originality/value

In most cases, MNOs have served the poorest consumers through shared‐use models such as GrameenPhone's Village phone concept in Bangladesh, due to the commonly held belief that reaching these consumers is difficult due to two key challenges – affordability and availability. This paper demonstrates that MNOs can deliver availability and affordability to achieve increased individual or household penetration through business model innovation.
Impacts of a Thai cause‐related marketing program on corporate image
Authors: Chattananon Apisit , Lawley Meredith , Supparerkchaisakul Numchai , Leelayouthayothin Lackana
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe research which tested a Thai model of cause‐related marketing's impact on corporate image.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 1,071 participants in an established award winning cause‐related program in Thailand and analyzed using multiple regression.

Findings

Findings indicated that a cause‐related marketing program can create positive attitudes toward corporate image. One specific demographic characteristic of respondents, household income level, showed a significant influence with participants from lower income households developing more positive attitudes than those from higher income households.

Research limitations/implications

The data were gathered from participants in one program only, hence future research could extend these findings to other programs to test their generalisability.

Practical implications

The proposed model serves as a basis for marketers to understand the influence of a cause‐related marketing program on the attitudes of Thai consumers who participated in the program toward corporate image. The results highlighted the importance of matching the company, its target market, participants in the program and the communication about the program to achieve desired results.

Originality/value

This empirical study contributes to cause‐related marketing research by focusing on a previously unresearched group, the participants in a program. In addition it was undertaken in an emerging market, Thailand.
Evaluating the effectiveness of export support services in developing countries
Authors: Tesfom Goitom , Lutz Clemens
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The lack of detailed statistics in many developing countries makes it very difficult to assess the effect of export support services on the firm's export performance. Moreover, a fundamental factor that creates confusion is the lack of a straightforward causal relationship between a specific export support activity and changes in actual trade patterns. Despite these difficulties, the purpose of this paper is to show that an assessment of the effectiveness of export promotion and support services can be made on the basis of the perceptions of the manufacturers involved. The method is simple and informative.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on a survey of 88 footwear and textile manufactures from a small new African country, Eritrea. The sample size accounts for 90 percent of the overall population.

Findings

On average, the quality of the export support services is rated as satisfactory. This can be considered as rather low, as the export promotion policy of the government is much more ambitious. The results of the discriminant analysis are in line with the literature and show that small enterprises in Eritrea have less access to export support services than larger firms. This can be considered as a major failure of the policy as in the modern entrepreneurial export economy small firms play a crucial role.

Research limitations/implications

Although the sample size accounts for 90 percent of the population, it is relatively small. To verify the results it would be interesting to conduct a comprehensive survey that includes all export manufacturing industries in Eritrea.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are useful for export policy makers in developing countries. The presented method shows that it is possible to measure the perception of the manufacturers with regard to the effectiveness of export promotion and support services. It also allows to compare the performance of those services and to identify priorities for the policy agenda.

Originality/value

The study develops a simple evaluation tool for the effectiveness of export support services in developing countries.
Excess sensitivity of consumption
Authors: Deng Shengliang , Jin Xiaotong
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Until now, traditional western consumption theories have not been able to adequately explain the consumption behavior of Chinese residents in the economic transitional period. Based on annual data from 1986 to 2004, the purpose of this paper is to examine the excess sensitivity of consumption through a variable parameter model.

Design/methodology/approach

A regression model was used to analyse annual consumption data from 1986 to 2004 in China.

Findings

The analysis demonstrates excess sensitivity characteristic in Chinese residents' consumption in the economic transitional period.

Research limitations/implications

The paper concludes that in order to make the demand stimulation policy in China more effective, it is necessary to take a series of measures to correct the excess sensitivity of consumption, so as to establish a healthy cycle of national economy. The paper has only explained excess sensitivity of Chinese residents' consumption from the point of view of economics. While consumption is an economic problem as well as a social problem, those factors beyond economics should not be excluded from the analysis.

Originality/value

This paper differs from former studies in that previous scholars failed to take into consideration the special economic characteristics in China's transitional economy. The variable parameter model this paper employed takes full consideration of such unique factors as economic expectations and systems changes during the transitional period so as to better explain Chinese people's consumption behavior and provide a new perspective to make government policies stimulate domestic demand more effectively.
Trust and commitment in Vietnam: the industrial distributor's perspective
Authors: Tuang Arlene , Stringer Christina
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Emerging economies provide a challenging backdrop for the building of trusting and committed cross‐border relationships; weak legal institutions and a turbulent business environment necessitate such relationships between business partners to effectively cope with external instabilities. The purpose of this paper is to focus on foreign supplier‐incumbent industrial distributor relations in the emerging economy of Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an exploratory and expository study of relationship marketing incorporating personal experiences and the opinions of five incumbent industrial distributors in Vietnam.

Findings

Using Lewickiet al.'s multi‐dimensional conceptualization of trust (which included the dimension of distrust), this exploratory study corroborated with preceding works in identifying some of these positive consequences of trust; but diverged from this research area, by also identifying the areas of distributor distrust that marked out the constraints of the relationship. Trust and commitment was found to be context‐dependent, where the narrative of a “good relationship” was contextually bound by the individual distributors' various experiences in Vietnam.

Originality/value

This paper allows researchers and practitioners to gain an understanding of the business environment and to build a contextual picture of the challenges faced by distributors operating in Vietnam.
Nollywood and the home video revolution: implications for marketing videofilm in Africa
Authors: Evuleocha Stevina U.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

In the last 15 years, Nigeria has developed a feature film industry based on video and video compact disc distribution which currently produces over 600 films a year making Nigeria (in terms of numbers) one of the largest film producing nations in the world. English language films (Nollywood) have become a dominant media form all over the African continent. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implications of this phenomenon for marketing video film in Africa, and examine the structure of the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the case study method, the paper examines how a technological innovation such as video home system (VHS) is being used in ways never imagined or intended by the innovators. Consequently, the emergence and proliferation of inexpensive VHS video tape recorders have led to the growth of video‐based movie production in several African countries, especially Nigeria.

Findings

It is hoped that findings of this case study will provide the basis for future scholarly analysis of the economy of the Nollywood industry, and also provide a template for practitioners to engage in future research in video film in Africa.

Originality/value

There have been no studies of Nollywood published to date.
A snapshot of strategy research 2002‐2006
Authors: Adcroft Andy , Willis Robert
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess both the philosophical underpinnings and contributions to knowledge made by research in the field of strategy in the five years between 2002 and 2006.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a review of the literature on the philosophy, purpose, process and outcome of management research which leads to the development of a conceptual model. Following this, almost 4,000 articles from 23 journals are assessed on the basis of their philosophical underpinnings and contribution to knowledge. Findings are reported and implications are discussed.

Findings

Most strategy research, especially in higher ranked journals, comes from a positivist perspective. Across all journals, most contributions to knowledge are in the form of stretching theory. There is a limited amount of reflective work in the strategy literature.

Practical implications

Given the form and content of strategy research, it is increasingly unlikely that research will make the crossover from the academic to the practitioner world.

Originality/value

This paper provides a better understanding of the process through which academic management research can be carried out and the barriers to this process. The paper provides a number of important insights into the nature of strategy research.