bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structures of six industrial benzimidazolone pigments from laboratory powder diffraction data
Authors: van de Streek Jacco , Brüning Jürgen , Ivashevskaya Svetlana N. , Ermrich Martin , Paulus Erich F. , Bolte Michael , Schmidt Martin U.
Published: March 2009

The crystal structures of six industrially produced benzimidazolone pigments [Pigment Orange 36 (β phase), Pigment Orange 62, Pigment Yellow 151, Pigment Yellow 154 (α phase), Pigment Yellow 181 (β phase) and Pigment Yellow 194] were determined from laboratory X-ray powder diffraction data by means of real-space methods using the programs DASH and MRIA, respectively. Subsequent Rietveld refinements were carried out with TOPAS. The crystal phases correspond to those produced industrially. Additionally, the crystal structures of the non-commercial compound `BIRZIL' (a chloro derivative of Pigment Yellow 194) and of a dimethylsulfoxide solvate of Pigment Yellow 154 were determined by single-crystal structure analyses. All eight crystal structures are different; the six industrial pigments even exhibit five different hydrogen-bond topologies. Apparently, the good application properties of the benzimidazolone pigments are not the result of one specific hydrogen-bonding pattern, but are the result of a combination of efficient molecular packing and strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds.
Symmetry rules and strain/order-parameter relationships for coupling between octahedral tilting and cooperative Jahn–Teller transitions in ABX
3 perovskites. II. Application
Authors: Carpenter Michael A. , Howard Christopher J.
Published: March 2009

The structural evolution of selected perovskites containing Jahn–Teller cations has been investigated in the light of a formal analysis of symmetry hierarchies for phase transitions driven by octahedral tilting and Jahn–Teller cooperative distortions. General expressions derived from the strain/order-parameter coupling relationships allowed by symmetry are combined with observed changes in lattice parameters to reveal details of order-parameter evolution and coupling. LuVO3, YbVO3, YVO3 and CeVO3 are representative of systems which develop Jahn–Teller ordering schemes associated with irreducible representations M^+_2 and R^+_3 of the space group Pm\bar 3m. Tilting of their octahedra is associated with M^+_3 and R^+_4. The Pnma (M^+_3+R^+_4 tilting) ↔ P21/a (M^+_3+R^+_4 tilting, R^+_3 Jahn–Teller order) transition below room temperature is close to second order in character. Shear strains which depend primarily on tilt angles show little variation, implying that there is only weak coupling between the tilting and Jahn–Teller order parameters. The subsequent P21/a ↔ Pnma (M^+_3+R^+_4 tilting, M^+_2 Jahn–Teller order) is first order in character, and involves either a reduction in the R^+_4 tilt angle or a change in the strength of tilt/Jahn–Teller order-parameter coupling. In LaMnO3, the isosymmetric Pnma (M^+_3+R^+_4 tilting) ↔ Pnma (M^+_3+R^+_4 tilting, M^+_2 Jahn–Teller order) transition can be described in terms of a classical first-order transition conforming to a 246 Landau expansion with negative fourth-order coefficients. Strain evolution in Ba-doped samples suggests that the transition becomes second order in character and reveals a new strain relaxation mechanism in LaMnO3 which might be understood in terms of local strain heterogeneities due to the disordering of distorted MnO6 octahedra. Transitions in PrAlO3 and La0.5Ba0.5CoO3 illustrate the transformation behaviour of systems in which the Jahn–Teller ordering scheme is associated with the irreducible representation \Gamma^+_3. Overall, coupled tilting + Jahn–Teller phase transitions in perovskites conform to mean-field behaviour, consistent with the underlying role of strain in promoting long interaction lengths.
Symmetry rules and strain/order-parameter relationships for coupling between octahedral tilting and cooperative Jahn–Teller transitions in ABX
3 perovskites. I. Theory
Authors: Carpenter Michael A. , Howard Christopher J.
Published: March 2009

Space groups, order-parameter and strain/order-parameter coupling relationships in ABX
3 perovskite structures which combine cooperative Jahn–Teller distortions and octahedral tilting have been investigated from the perspective of group theory using the computer program ISOTROPY. Two common Jahn–Teller ordering schemes are associated with the irreducible representations {M}_2^+ and {R}_3^ + of the space group Pm\overline 3m. A third, less-common ordering scheme is associated with \Gamma _3^ +. These combine with tilting instabilities associated with {M}_3^ + and {R}_4^ + to generate a predicted suite of Jahn–Teller structure types that includes many of the known structures of manganites, vanadates, Cu and Cr halides. Order-parameter coupling and possible phase transitions are described using Landau free-energy expansions, and general expressions for the relationships between symmetry-adapted spontaneous strains and particular order-parameter components are presented. These provide a general formal framework for determining structural evolution across multi-component order-parameter space and for characterizing the influence of tilting instabilities on Jahn–Teller instabilities or of Jahn–Teller ordering on octahedral tilting.
Structure determination of seven phases and solvates of Pigment Yellow 183 and Pigment Yellow 191 from X-ray powder and single-crystal data
Authors: Ivashevskaya Svetlana N. , van de Streek Jacco , Djanhan Juste E. , Brüning Jürgen , Alig Edith , Bolte Michael , Schmidt Martin U. , Blaschka Peter , Höffken Hans Wolfgang , Erk Peter
Published: March 2009

The crystal structures of two industrially produced laked yellow pigments, Pigment Yellow 183 [P.Y. 183, Ca(C16H10Cl2N4O7S2), α phase] and Pigment Yellow 191 [P.Y. 191, Ca(C17H13ClN4O7S2), α and β phases], were determined from laboratory X-ray powder diffraction data. The coordinates of the molecular fragments of the crystal structures were found by means of real-space methods (simulated annealing) with the program DASH. The coordinates of the calcium ions and the water molecules were determined by combining real-space methods (DASH and MRIA) and repeated Rietveld refinements (TOPAS) of the partially finished crystal structures. TOPAS was also used for the final Rietveld refinements. The crystal structure of β-P.Y. 183 was determined from single-crystal data. The α phases of the two pigments are isostructural, whereas the β phases are not. All four phases exhibit a double-layer structure, built from nonpolar layers containing the C/N backbone and polar layers containing the calcium ions, sulfonate groups and water molecules. Furthermore, the crystal structures of an N,N-dimethylformamide solvate of P.Y. 183, and of P.Y. 191 solvates with N,N-dimethylformamide and N,N-dimethylacetamide were determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis.
Electron diffraction, X-ray powder diffraction and pair-distribution-function analyses to determine the crystal structures of Pigment Yellow 213, C23H21N5O9
Authors: Schmidt Martin U. , Brühne Stefan , Wolf Alexandra K. , Rech Anette , Brüning Jürgen , Alig Edith , Fink Lothar , Buchsbaum Christian , Glinnemann Jürgen , van de Streek Jacco , Gozzo Fabia , Brunelli Michela , Stowasser Frank , Gorelik Tatiana , Mugnaioli Enrico , Kolb Ute
Published: March 2009

The crystal structure of the nanocrystalline α phase of Pigment Yellow 213 (P.Y. 213) was solved by a combination of single-crystal electron diffraction and X-ray powder diffraction, despite the poor crystallinity of the material. The molecules form an efficient dense packing, which explains the observed insolubility and weather fastness of the pigment. The pair-distribution function (PDF) of the α phase is consistent with the determined crystal structure. The β phase of P.Y. 213 shows even lower crystal quality, so extracting any structural information directly from the diffraction data is not possible. PDF analysis indicates the β phase to have a columnar structure with a similar local structure as the α phase and a domain size in column direction of approximately 4 nm.
Investigation of film cooling effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient for rectangular holes with two rows
Authors: Koç İbrahim , İslamoğlu Yaşar , Akdağ Ünal
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the film cooling effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient in a flat plate with two rows of rectangular injection holes.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental and numerical investigation of film cooling effectiveness in a flat plate with two rows which are rectangular injection holes. The liquid crystal technique has been used for measuring the heat transfer coefficients on the mixture region. Three injection holes in model are in a single row. The holes are rectangular cross section and they are 9 × 6.5 mm. The injection holes are inclined at 30° along the mainstream direction. The blowing ratios are from 0.5 to 2.0. The experiments and their computational models are established to investigate its effects at the 330 and 340 and 350 K injection temperatures and the different blowing ratios.

Findings

The results show that the film cooling effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient of a given flat plate surface, both along the mainstream and lateral direction, depend on the optimum selection of parameters. In this study, the highest effectiveness is determined at a blowing ratio of 0.5. Further increasing the ratio results in reverse effect on the film cooling effectiveness.

Originality/value

It is the fist time the film cooling effectiveness is compared at the rectangular injection holes with two rows as experimental and numerical.
Studies of zenith pass tracing of the inter‐satellite linkage antenna based on mechanical tilting
Authors: kun Zhai , Di Yang
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a feasible method to solve the zenith pass problem that can occur when the inter‐satellite linkage antenna of the user satellite is tracing TDRS. The antenna uses the elevation‐over‐azimuth architecture.

Design/methodology/approach

The movement laws of the inter‐satellite linkage can be obtained based on the orbit predictions of the user satellite and TDRS. According to the movement laws, the zenith pass moments and blindness zones are found. The trajectory preprocessor is provided to design a command trajectory for driving the axis of the tilting mechanism.

Findings

In the worst situation, the blindness zone can appear once every half day. Three special orbit altitude values are obtained. When the user satellite picks one of them as its orbit altitude, the blindness zone may be avoided forever. The zenith pass tracing strategies based on the mechanical tilting method have been designed.

Research limitations/implications

This method obtains the stable tracking during the zenith pass course by changing the hardware structure of the antenna. It is too expensive and can influence the pointing precision of the antenna.

Practical implications

The research can help the engineers analyze and solve the zenith pass problem of the antenna.

Originality/value

This paper studies the zenith pass problem that can occur when the inter‐satellite linkage antenna of the user satellite is tracing TDRS and provides a solving method.
A guidance algorithm for launch to equatorial orbit
Authors: Marrdonny Mahamadd , Mobed Mohammad
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new guidance algorithm for launching a satellite using an expendable rocket from an equatorial site to an equatorial low‐Earth orbit.

Design/methodology/approach

Guidance during endoatmospheric portion is based on a nominal trajectory computed prior to take‐off. A set of updating computations begins anew at the time instant tg of transition from endoatmosphere to exoatmosphere. The updating computations determine a guidance trajectory and an associated control law for the remainder of path by taking into account the rocket state at time tg. Thus, the overall guidance involves both initial and midcourse operations, and it has both open‐ and closed‐loop aspects.

Findings

Viability and performance in terms of speed, precision, and effectiveness of the proposed scheme is demonstrated through three‐dimensional simulations and comparisons to other methods.

Originality/value

The updating computations and the fashion in which they are incorporated into the entire guidance process constitute the novel features of the proposed algorithm.
The protection of galvanised steel using a chromate‐free organic inhibitor
Authors: Angelica Hernandez‐Alvarado Laura , Salvador Hernandez Luis , Miranda Juana Maria , Dominguez Octavio
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate corrosion protection provided by a water‐soluble corrosion inhibitor as a non‐toxic alternative to the chromate and phosphate conversion coatings on galvanised steel.

Design/methodology/approach

Untreated galvanised steel samples were assessed simultaneously with galvanised steel samples treated with the chromate‐free organic inhibitor, a conventional chromate conversion coating or a zinc phosphate modified with nickel, by means of immersion – weigh loss and electrochemical tests, using a naturally aerated 0.5 M NaCl aqueous solution as corrosive medium. In addition, selected superficial conditions of galvanised steel were submitted to a salt fog test. The electrochemical tests used were: open circuit corrosion potential logging, linear polarization, potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Corrosion products formed on samples withdrawn from the solution at different intervals were characterized using X‐ray diffraction.

Findings

All tests gave concordant results, indicating that the chromate‐free inhibitor showed moderate protective properties in this electrolyte. Among the considered superficial conditions, the phosphate coating showed the most deficient performance. In all cases, it was observed that after moderately intense initial attack, the corrosion rate diminishes due to the formation and growth of insoluble corrosion product layers, which exhibit a passivating action.

Research limitations/implications

The chromate‐free organic corrosion inhibitor protected galvanised steel in this environment but the degree of protection was less than that provided by the chromate conversion coating.

Originality/value

The paper presents an alternative to the toxic treatments with chromates, since the inhibitor works as an additional coating, sealing pores and other discontinuities found in the zinc coating.
Liberating Murphy's Law: learning from change
Authors: Yeo Roland K.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine learning groups as complex systems and to address three issues about learning in organizations: learning from change; factors affecting learning; and learning leading to growth and renewal.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted at a Singapore Engineering firm to explore its two‐year change intervention experiences. Data were gathered at two stages: laddering, non‐directive interviewing with 45 employees; and focus group discussions with 20 leaders.

Findings

Learning from a state of not‐knowing gives rise to a new problem‐solving dimension, enabling individuals to thrive and survive in complexity. Understanding constraints that seemingly truncate change is ironically a generative device that frees people from being trapped by Murphy's Law.

Research limitations/implications

Change provides the stimulus for learning in complex contexts and paradigms where reciprocal relationships are sought to stabilize feedback loops and revitalize decision making. Mediating the variety of learning dynamics is an integration of two metacommunicative activities: dialogue and reflection.

Practical implications

Leaders are the connecting tissues to facilitating a learning that is highly interpretive and socially constructed. Process leadership is characterized by leaders assuming appropriate stewardship and walking the talk. A shared vision is necessary for contextualizing change and stabilizing learning conditions.

Originality/value

Combining Murphy's Law with the complexity of organizational dynamics gives rise to a new understanding of learning in unpredictable contexts. It is a learning that creates a projection of language which transcends time and space, a learning that presents itself as an intertwined activity celebrated by complex systems and processes.
The romance of the follower: part 1
Authors: Hurwitz Marc , Hurwitz Samantha
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to provide a compelling argument that followership has significant practical value in enhancing career and organizational value; and, second, to encourage dialogue about followership. Part 2 will extend current ideas about followership to provide a more comprehensive, holistic model. Part 3 will show how the model can be used as a training tool, in mentoring, for performance appraisals, and in designing HR solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The strengths and weaknesses of current theories are highlighted, motivating both the need for making followership more visible within an organization and the need for a more comprehensive model.

Findings

Good followers report higher career satisfaction, get promoted more often, and add greater value to their organizations. Moreover, followship skills can be developed.

Originality/value

Previous research has focused on followship as either a fixed set of behaviours or traits, or as something a leader has to learn to manage. This is the first paper to empower followers – everyone in an organization is a follower and followership skills can be learned. As such, the three articles are of particular interest to senior executives and HR departments.
The paradox of change: how to coach while dealing with fear and uncertainty
Authors: Griffiths Bob
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide guidance for individuals who are learning to help others make significant changes in their lives.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the author's own work and observations of how people change.

Findings

It was found that in order to create significant change it is necessary to build an effective relationship with the client, understand the restraining forces that hold the status quo in place and have an effective problem‐solving methodology.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is not based on formal research. More research on the fastest way to build change skills is needed.

Practical implications

By following the methodology here a coach can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome when working with the client on a problem.

Originality/value

The paper will be of use to anyone who works with others to solve problems.
Communications to engage light‐speed leaders
Authors: Nichols Ellen
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This paper seeks to describe the workplace phenomenon of attention‐challenged leaders and how managers and others in the organization can get an executive's attention in order to gain input, direction or collaboration on decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The material draws on the author's work in coaching and counseling leaders and followers.

Findings

The workplace is now filled with attention‐challenged leaders. Decision makers thanks to the continuous and infinite data flow that 24/7 technology provides, are over‐extended. They are not able to fully engage with their teams and provide direction and guidance. And the staff who work with and for these attention‐challenged individuals struggle to engage their leaders. It is a challenge for them to obtain reliable information and move forward on projects or execute decisions in a productive and timely fashion.

Practical implications

Exhorting the leaders to change their ways is a possibility, but 24/7‐technology has permanently changed communications. The opportunity lies in using time‐sensitive methods to bridge an information gap. Middle managers are in an excellent position to restyle their communications and better engage those leaders who are in a state of partial attention. In this way, managers can get real input, decisions and direction.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on what the middle manager can do to solve this problem.
Developing the library
Authors: Kann‐Christensen Nanna , Andersen Jack
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine and critique the dominant new public management (NPM)‐mode of thinking in library development.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine the Danish Library Act from 2000 and a library policy from the municipal library of Aarhus in Denmark in order to show how they respectively display new public management thinking and handle pathologies of recognition.

Findings

The Danish Library Act from 2000 reflects an economic discourse which makes it hard for libraries to develop any normatively grounded agenda. The library policy from the municipal library of Aarhus reveals that it intends to deal with handling recognition but actually does the opposite.

Research limitations/implications

The context surrounding libraries and library development is becoming more political than ever. User groups are more diverse than ever and some do not even feel as being part of society. If libraries are to cope with this situation, they must try to work with the concept of recognition as an explicit part of their library activity. Otherwise libraries stand in danger of being considered a party closed to all but a selected few which would then contribute to a lack of recognition for those who are not being invited to the party. The forms of recognition can thus be used to structure library policies and library development

Originality/value

The analyses provided in this article show that libraries should be aware of how they describe and see their activities and practices.
Digital library research 1997‐2007
Authors: Li Liew Chern
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This review aims to provide a snapshot of digital library research of the past 11 years (1997‐2007) that focuses on organisational and people issues, including those concerning the social/cultural, legal, ethical, and use dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

The review covers articles published in mainstream peer‐reviewed library and information science/studies journals. The analysis was done by drawing on a sample of 577 articles published in both academic and professional LIS journals.

Findings

The analysis reveals that there are several topics that are dominant in the sample. There are significant research streams into one or more aspects of digital library use and usability, organisational and economical issues, as well as legal issues. In comparison, there is very little research in the sample that addresses ethical issues and social/cultural issues. D‐Lib Magazine tops the list as the journal with the highest number of articles published and in spite of some fluctuations, there was an overall upwards trend for journal publications in these research areas. The years with the largest numbers of works published in these areas in the study sample were 2004, 2005 and 2006.

Research limitations/implications

It would be inaccurate to claim that the literature searches conducted in this study include every relevant journal article. They provide an extensive but not comprehensive sample. Also, to account for inconsistencies in indexing, a range of descriptors related to “digital library” was used in the searches in conjunction with other descriptors representing the various topics related to organisational and people issues. Nevertheless, this does not take into account journal articles that do not mention any of the digital library terms and yet, may discuss digital library themes. Hence, certain issues might have been under‐represented in this study.

Originality/value

This review and meta‐analysis is the first that focuses on analysing digital library research that has a focus on organisational and people issues. Given the manifestos that digital libraries are to grow into socio‐technical systems that function within an organisation and society, the subject area as a whole has also evolved over the years, with a move away from purely technical issues towards the application, use and effectiveness issues. Therefore, it is highly likely that research into these emerging issues will continue to grow and this review provides a preliminary overview of this important development as well as a point of departure to highlight gaps in the literature.
How does strategic uncertainty and project sponsorship relate to project performance?
Authors: Liu Li
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a model on the contingent effects of project sponsorship on project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The propositions are tested with survey data from project managers and senior managers with project management oversight in Australian companies.

Findings

The results support the hypotheses that the level of perceived management priority has both a direct effect on project sponsorship and project outcomes, and a moderating effect on the effect of project sponsorship on project outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

This is an exploratory study into the relationship between project sponsorship and project performance. The model proposed is validated from a sample of Australian project managers. Further studies are needed to validate/modify the model in other culture/contexts.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that organisations could improve their overall project performance by demonstrating management attention to and appointing sponsors to projects with high strategic uncertainties.

Originality/value

Management support in the form of project sponsorship has consistently been cited as critical to achieving project objectives. Yet, there is mainly anecdotal evidence on the effect of project sponsorship and little validated knowledge exists on how project sponsors and senior management effect project performance. This study is the first to conceptualize and provide empirical support for the contingent effect of project sponsorship on project performance.
Aligning competitive priorities in the supply chain: the role of interactions with suppliers
Authors: Vachon Stephan , Halley Alain , Beaulieu Martin
Published: March 2009

Purpose

Over the last decade, competition in the manufacturing sector has increased as globalization and customer requirements have evolved. Now, organizations are competing not only with their internal capabilities but also on their abilities to leverage capabilities in the supply chain. Recent studies suggest that strategic alignment in the supply chain, assessed by the degree of matching between supply management and market requirements, is critical for the success of organizations in the global marketplace. The purpose of this paper is to examine the possible linkage between strategic alignment (or lack of) in the supply chain, based on the traditional competitive priorities (i.e. cost, quality, flexibility and delivery), and the type of interactions with suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

Strategic alignment in the supply chain was measured by the difference between customer's requirements and the emphasis that the organization puts on these same requirements in dealing with its suppliers. The types of interactions were assessed by six items, three of them to measure the degree of arm's length practices and the other three to assess the degree of cooperation with suppliers. The empirical analysis used data from 512 manufacturing companies in Canada surveyed in 2003 and 2005. Linear regressions were conducted to test a series of four hypotheses linking alignment in the supply chain and the type of interactions with suppliers.

Findings

Interactions with suppliers that are increasingly based on cooperation were found to be linked with a better alignment of competitive priorities that are characteristic of responsive supply chains. An unexpected result was the positive link between arm's length interactions and delivery, a dimension that is also associated with responsive supply chains.

Research limitations/implications

The choice of interactions with suppliers can be critical in the alignment of competitive priorities in the supply chain. A limitation is that the empirical analysis rests on data collected from one respondent per organization.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to research by providing empirical evidence of the link between the type of interactions with suppliers and the alignment of competitive priorities in the supply chain.
Analysis of the relationships among TOC use, TOC outcomes, and organizational performance
Authors: Inman R. Anthony , Lair Sale Martha , Green Kenneth W.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine empirically the relationships among the three elements of the theory of constraints (TOC), a number of observable outcomes expected to be associated with the application of TOC, and organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A model, which incorporates TOC elements as antecedent to TOC outcomes and TOC outcomes as antecedent to organizational performance, is proposed. Data were collected from 110 organizations identified as TOC adopters, and the model was assessed using a structural equation modeling methodology.

Findings

Results indicate that the proposed model fits the data well. Adoption of TOC yields observable TOC outcomes, which lead to improved business unit performance. Analysis suggests that the use of TOC is effective in improving organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications

Scales are developed for use in future TOC research.

Practical implications

TOC is found to be effective in improving organizational performance.

Originality/value

While this work was begun much earlier than the work of Boyd and Gupta, this work revises their model and main hypothesis. TOC scales are developed and validated for use by future TOC researchers.
A process for managing manufacturing flexibility
Authors: Cousens Alan , Szwejczewski Marek , Sweeney Mike
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a procedure to enable organizations to establish a competitive capability to manufacture flexibly.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of manufacturing businesses and two case studies in separate plants of an international manufacturing company led to the design of a process to improve manufacturing flexibility. The proposed process was subsequently tested and refined in workshops and interviews in additional collaborating companies.

Findings

Insight gained from the combination of case study and survey research has identified key steps in a process to improve manufacturing flexibility, which have not been emphasised previously. In addition a framework is proposed which matches operational capabilities with desired dimensions of flexibility; mix and/or volume.

Research limitations/implications

Further trials of the proposed process in a range of manufacturing operations are required to establish its robustness and generic value.

Originality/value

A new conceptual framework has been developed to improve manufacturing flexibility. The results of an initial trial of this framework are reported.
Exploring deeper structures in manufacturing strategy formation processes: a qualitative inquiry
Authors: Kiridena Senevi , Hasan Maruf , Kerr Roger
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explicate deeper structures in manufacturing strategy (MS) formation processes, in order to advance process understanding. This would be useful in identifying and nurturing appropriate forms of MS formation within specific organisational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Nine case studies in the Australian metal products, machinery and equipment manufacturing sectors, guided by the grounded theory approach.

Findings

Deeper structures in MS processes represent linear and parallel, convergent and divergent, sequential and iterative progression of strategic initiatives across four broad phases identified as: initiation, consolidation, commitment and realization. The multiple progressions are explained by the nature of strategic initiatives, the causal relationships between the phases or modes and the influence of internal and external organisational contextual factors. The aggregate patterns are presented in the form of a conceptual model.

Research limitations/implications

The conceptual model needed to be tested with a large sample of data using statistical techniques to improve its external validity. Causal relationships explored in this study may be further strengthened using longitudinal qualitative studies.

Practical implications

The findings are grounded in empirical data. The model presented using simple formalisms is capable of providing rich insights in aggregate terms. As such, it is expected to hold a natural appeal to practitioners. If the findings can find their way into MS pedagogy, they can make a more substantial and progressive contribution to MS practice.

Originality/value

The findings of this study have corroborated and explained the findings of several recent studies that have uncovered alternative forms of MS formation. The deeper understanding of MS process developed in this study contributes to theory‐building with the added significance that this study has successfully crossed the traditional analytical boundaries.
A long journey: an interview with Jeffrey Weeks
Authors: Jones Jackie
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an interview with academic and author, Professor Jeffrey Weeks.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the significance of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 and same‐sex relationships.

Findings

Professor Weeks divulges some personal and intimate thoughts, in particular his thoughts about marriage.

Originality/value

The interview comments highlight the pace of change in relation to same‐sex partnership recognition.
The prospects of legal recognition of same‐sex marriage in Germany
Authors: Jones Jackie
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the likelihood of successfully introducing constitutional changes to the definition of marriage in Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the values underpinning the German constitution through academic writing and case law.

Findings

Fundamental change is unlikely to occur in the foreseeable future, despite EU case law.

Research limitations/implications

Incremental changes have taken place in all countries. These have begun in the workplace and spread to more fundamental areas such as challenges to marriage definitions in many countries. In a conservative country such as Germany the fact that even the highest constitutional court has come close to opening the door to change can be interpreted to mean the wait will not be too long.

Originality/value

The paper provides a comparative analysis that will highlight the types of arguments that have been successfully pushed through the courts as well as persuading political actors to enact positive legislation.
Where will it all end?
Authors: Curry‐Sumner Ian , Curry‐Sumner Scott
Published: March 2009

Purpose

In total, 11 US legal jurisdictions have enacted registration schemes of various types. The purpose of this paper is to clarify, describe and analyse the developments of these various same‐sex relationship types in the USA and the role State constitutions play in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses the various types of registration schemes and categorises them into different theoretical themes as well as analysing the jurisdictions which permit and prohibit same‐sex relationship legal recognition.

Findings

The findings indicate that State constitutions have been used in order to gain access to legal recognition as well as to deny access to rights and duties of legally recognised relationships. A classification has been put forward which categorises and catalogues which states have used their constitutions to prohibit as well as permit same‐sex marriage and registered same‐sex relationships.

Originality/value

This type of categorisation is valuable in attempting to keep track of and understand the very fast‐moving area of law and law making, especially for other legal jurisdictions which may be able to use the theoretical approach of one of the US states.
Severing the link between marriage and children's best interests
Authors: Kelly Fiona
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the attitudes of lesbian mothers towards same‐sex marriage, focusing in particular on how they perceive the relationship between marriage and children's best interests.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on 36 semi‐structured interviews with lesbian mothers living in British Columbia and Alberta, comparing their views on marriage and children's best interests with those articulated by lesbian and gay litigants during the Canadian same‐sex marriage campaign.

Findings

It was found that few of the mothers made any positive link between having married parents and children's best interests. Only a quarter of the couples had married or intended to marry.

Research limitations/implications

Whether the views expressed in this research will be embraced by the next generation of lesbian mothers is difficult to predict. Prospective lesbian mothers will be able to marry before having children, will likely experience greater societal pressure to marry, and may have weaker ties to feminist politics. The issue should be revisited to see whether the views expressed in the research resonate with the next generation of mothers.

Practical implications

Law reform directed at same‐sex families should not presume that lesbians perceive there to be any positive relationship between marriage and children's best interests.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical data on how lesbian mothers understand the relationship, if any, between having married parents and children's best interests. It challenges the universality of the very traditional views expressed in the same‐sex marriage litigation, and argues that amongst the wider lesbian mothering community attitudes towards the relationship between marriage and parenting are considerably more diverse.
Extracting appropriate scope for information systems: a case study
Authors: Laitinen Erkki K. , Länsiluoto Aapo , Rautiainen Iiris
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the practical suitability of the frameworks of Tillema and Dixonet al.for assessing the scope of information systems (IS). The study also investigates whether these frameworks help determine an appropriate scope for a new IS before implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes both qualitative and quantitative data from a case company. The company is a middle‐sized Finnish international technology company with about 1,000 employees.

Findings

Both frameworks are useful in assessing scope. The integrated contingency framework (ICF) by Tillema lacks detailed suggestions of how to design an IS. The performance measurement questionnaire (PMQ) by Dixonet al.makes it possible to determine detailed information requirements in addition to an appropriate scope.

Research limitations/implications

The study has the general case study limitations.

Practical implications

Companies should utilize both ICF and PMQ frameworks when implementing IS. ICF allows determination of the general scope of IS whereas PMQ enables investigation of the specific measures of IS.

Originality/value

Earlier IS scope contingency theory studies used few contingency factors, and were primarily quantitative and so did not provide useful frameworks for determining scope in practice. ICF and PMQ are exceptions but their usability in determining the appropriate IS scope is not evaluated in earlier studies. This study also combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches; which has been a limitation of earlier studies.
Service innovation through dynamic knowledge management
Authors: Shang Shari S.C. , Lin Shu‐Fang , Wu Ya‐Ling
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the findings of a study on the management of intellectual capital in Fortune Motors. It intends to highlight how an automobile service firm apply dynamic knowledge management concept to create new service processes which resulted in breaking through the bottleneck of profit loss.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on an in‐depth case study, semi‐structured interviews and extensive access to the secondary data on the firm. A qualitative approach was used to analyze the data due to the complexity of contextual content.

Findings

The proposed model has been validated and found that dynamic capabilities could enhance knowledge management by linking external resources or stimuli and internal knowledge management practices. Empirical evidence has also been provided on how a firm can apply dynamic capabilities to its knowledge management to substantiate service innovation.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies verifying the linkage between knowledge management and specific capabilities can be extended from this study.

Practical implications

The proposed model provides a guideline for practitioners in managing their valuable knowledge and enhancing the existing knowledge management practices.

Originality/value

This paper identifies a gap in the linkage between knowledge management and constant environmental changes that has been overlooked. To narrow down this research gap, a model of a cyclical flow has been proposed containing processes of integration/coordination, learning/experimentation and innovation and transformation.
Managing consumer adoption of broadband: examining drivers and barriers
Authors: Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Lal Banita , Williams Michael D.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The commonly used internet service provider's (ISP) business models based on price comparison may prove to be a successful strategy for organisations in the short‐term. However, it may be argued that a sustainable business model for the long‐term requires a detailed understanding of the various factors that may help ISPs in attracting future customers. The purpose of this paper is to examine the drivers and barriers of consumer adoption of broadband in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research approach was utilised to examine the effect of a number of constructs from attitudinal (utilitarian outcomes and hedonic outcomes), normative (social influence), control (self‐efficacy and facilitating conditions resources) and demographic (age) categories on the behaviour of consumers when adopting broadband in the UK.

Findings

Results indicate that all the constructs, apart from hedonic outcomes, significantly influenced the adoption behaviour of consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a snapshot of the adoption behaviour of broadband within UK households. The findings may therefore change as technology becomes established and consumers become more experienced in its use. By undertaking a longitudinal study, the elimination of any variables could achieve anomalies in the obtained results. In addition to a discussion of the findings, the paper outlines the contributions and limitations of the study and provides suggestions for future research activity.

Originality/value

The research presented in this paper is a part of doctoral research which forms one of the initial efforts towards understanding the adoption behaviour of broadband within UK households.
Effects of daily and “woot‐off” strategies on e‐commerce
Authors: Wang Bin , Liu Lai C. , Koong Kai S. , Bai Shuming
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the prices and consumer behavior at Woot.com, a deep discount online retailer, and compare two selling mechanisms it uses – the regular “one deal a day” and the “woot‐off” mechanisms. The paper also compares the “one deal a day” business model with the mainstream multi‐product retail business model.

Design/methodology/approach

Product, pricing, and sales data for products sold on Woot.com were collected using an automatic online data‐collection agent. The data set of 572 products includes 270 products sold using the regular “one deal a day” format and 302 products sold on ten woot‐off days.

Findings

Two periods of the day were identified when most orders were placed. It is found that Woot.com's prices were usually lower than the lowest found elsewhere online, and the price differences were even greater during woot‐offs. The analysis reveals that the price elasticity at Woot.com is lower than those at internet retailers such as Amazon.com or BarnesandNobile.com. In addition, factors such as having the lowest online price, a large customer base, and selling during a “woot‐off” and on weekdays all help increase sale outcomes. The comparison of the “one deal a day” and the multi‐product retail business model suggests that the former focuses on niche markets and primarily sells closeout and refurbished products to online bargain hungers.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to both research and practice toward understanding prices and consumer behavior at “one deal a day” web sites. Future research can examine other aspects, such as the order arrival on these sites.
When to measure productivity: lessons from manufacturing and supplier‐selection strategies
Authors: Phusavat Kongkiti , Jaiwong Pensuda , Sujitwanich Supattra , Kanchana Rapee
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This study aims to identify the set of circumstances that requires productivity information. It is part of an effort to improve productivity measurement. For this research, when to measure productivity is addressed by linking with manufacturing and supplier‐selection strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey is developed in order to gain insights into three areas: manufacturing strategies, supplier‐selection strategies for maintenance services (MS), and productivity. The development and distribution of a survey are conducted jointly with the Federation of Thai Industries. There are 40 companies completed the survey. The analysis on top executives' opinions, by the correlation analysis, is based on a two‐stage manner. The first stage is to list a circumstance that indicates the positive relationships between manufacturing and supplier‐selection strategies. The second stage is to match each circumstance with productivity information.

Findings

Altogether, they are nine circumstances that need productivity information. For example, when delivery is selected as a manufacturing strategy and quality is chosen as a supplier‐selection strategy for MS, productivity measurement is required for an effective management process.

Practical implications

Awareness of the relationship between strategic decisions and productivity information helps strengthen performance measurement and subsequently a management process. A strong management process can drive organizational policies and objectives.

Originality/value

The more insights into when to measure productivity have been urged by several prominent researchers. A research methodology in this study is also perceived to be useful for possible future applications.