bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying South African listed companies involved in overtrading
Authors: Steyn‐Bruwer B.W. , Hamman W.D.
Published: August 2011

This study investigates overtrading, which is the result of an expansion rate that is too high in relation to a particular business’s structure. It often results in cash flow problems. The phenomenon of overtrading is described in a case study on Profurn. In this study, a ratio was developed that can be used to identify companies in an overtrading position. Selected variables were tested by means of the Kruskal Wallis test in order to pinpoint variables that can discriminate successfully between companies that are overtrading and ones that are not. Overtrading occurred in 15.5% of the company years of listed South African companies between September 1989 and December 2005. Of the 35 variables tested, 31 were found to be able to discriminate statistically between company years in which overtrading occurred as opposed to ones in which it did not occur. These variables can therefore be used to profile companies that overtrade.
Is the transformation of public sector financial reporting in South Africa’s provincial governments on track?
Authors: van Wyk H.A.
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this article is to assess the state of financial reporting in provincial government departments in South Africa. One of the obstacles in transforming financial reporting in South Africa is changing from cash accounting to accrual accounting. The survey in this study revealed that, while most public sector accounting guidelines and legislation are in place, government departments are still using cash accounting. The current accounting information system seems to be unsuitable for accrual accounting. Respondents assigned a poor rating to the effectiveness of public sector financial reporting, and the slow rate at which this system is being transformed.
The essence of a university and scholarly activity in accounting, with reference to a Department of Accounting at a South African university
Authors: van der Schyf D.B.
Published: August 2011

There is increasing academic pressure on Departments of Accounting in South Africa whose academic programmes are accredited with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). The reason for this that the academic training of potential chartered accountants has long been their main academic focus, and they often fail to do justice to their real academic mission of scholarly activity in accounting (the pursuit of science as an endeavour), which is central to the essence of a university. The quality of such departments’ research is not yet an important criterion for their prestige. However, only Departments of Accounting that develop Accounting as a social science in scholarly activity in accounting deserve international recognition. This empirical study attempts to convince Departments of Accounting, particularly those whose academic programmes are accredited by SAICA, to embark on scholarly activity in accounting as soon as possible.
A proposed reporting framework for HIV/Aids disclosure by listed South African companies
Authors: du Bruyn R.
Published: August 2011

This article proposes a disclosure framework for the reporting of HIV/Aids‐related information in annual reports to address the lack of consistency in current disclosure practices. A literature review was undertaken to determine business risks and responses relating to the disease, followed by an empirical investigation into voluntary disclosure on HIV/Aids by companies listed on the JSE Securities Exchange. The investigation consisted of a thematic content analysis for the period 1998 to 2004. The results of both the literature review and the empirical investigation are used to recommend a disclosure framework that companies can use when reporting on HIV/Aids in their annual reports. The framework recommends the disclosure of HIV/Aids risks and responses by organisations.
Five recent developments’ impact on the traditional academic culture of Departments of Accounting at South African universities
Authors: van der Schyf D.B.
Published: August 2011

The fact that Departments of Accounting at South African universities, whose academic programmes are accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), have for many years focused primarily only on the academic training of prospective chartered accountants, has established a culture that is removed from research, and this is in contrast to the nature of a university. The aim of this paper is to evaluate some recent developments in the South African academic environment that may promote a research culture and to point out the coercive role these developments may play in changing the existing culture of a Department of Accounting. The study concludes that in view of a list of specific recent developments in the national academic environment, Departments of Accounting will be forced to change course toward becoming more research oriented. A number of recommendations are made to expedite the process.
Involving the accounting profession in the development of financial management skills of micro‐enterprise owners in South Africa
Authors: Schwarze C.L.
Published: August 2011

In order to be successful, micro‐enterprise owners in South Africa face several management challenges. To overcome these challenges it is crucial that they possess sufficient financial management skills to ensure business survival and growth. This article focuses on determining the extent to which the critical financial management skills that micro‐enterprise owners in South Africa require differ from those they possess, in order to identify specific interventions to develop the skills that are lacking. It was found that most micro‐enterprise owners do not possess the critical financial management skills required. Recommendations are made on how members of the accounting profession could become involved in developing these skills.
The application of management accounting techniques to determine the financial viability of delivery routes in the bread industry: a case study
Authors: Middelberg S.L. , van Rooyen S. , Pienaar A.J.
Published: August 2011

Cost management is essential in every organisation, especially in an increasingly competitive environment (Jain & Yadav 2006:352). The management of distribution costs has become increasingly important because of the rising fuel costs in recent years (Gaffney 2008:40). Delivery routes should be optimised in order to reduce distribution costs. This article presents a comprehensive segment margin approach model for determining the financial viability of delivery routes. A specific bakery (henceforth referred to as Bakery A) was selected as a case study, and the use of general management accounting principles in determining the financial viability of delivery routes was specifically investigated.
Factors affecting Southern African students’ success in CIMA examinations
Authors: Roos S.
Published: August 2011

This study explores the factors affecting the results obtained by Southern African students in the professional qualification examinations of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). Thirteen variables were identified and included in a questionnaire sent to CIMA students. It was found that three variables were significantly associated with examination success: age, tuition and study material. Younger candidates, candidates who attended part‐time tuition classes and candidates who used the textbooks published by BPP were more successful. Trends were also detected regarding gender, the number of papers written, and examination attempts: females tended to outperform males, candidates had a smaller chance of passing all the papers they sat if they took on more papers at a time, and first‐time candidates had a higher tendency to pass than repeat candidates. Opportunities for further research are discussed.
South African chartered accountants’ views on and expectations of a career in academia
Authors: Steenkamp L.P.
Published: August 2011

Black and Coloured chartered accountants (CAs) are under‐represented in Accounting departments at academic institutions in South Africa. It is generally accepted that this is because of the poor remuneration offered in academia and a general shortage of Black and Coloured CAs. This study, which is based on a questionnaire to CAs, assesses their perceptions of a career in academia. It contrasts these perceptions of and requirements for a career in academia with current employment conditions and makes recommendations about increasing the number of Black and Coloured CAs in academia. These recommendations include increased remuneration and better promotion of the benefits of an academic career.
Corporate social responsibility assurance: how do South African publicly listed companies compare?
Authors: Ackers B.
Published: August 2011

As companies begin accounting for the triple bottom line, external corporate social responsibility (CSR) assurance provides stakeholders with assurance that CSR disclosures may be relied upon. In this way, companies may go some way towards avoiding their CSR efforts simply being perceived as greenwash or a public relations exercise. Several organisations currently provide this assurance, using different methodologies and standards. Using a content analysis, the annual and/or CSR reports of the top 100 South African publicly listed companies were investigated in respect of CSR assurance, and compared with international trends. Despite a slow response, the evidence suggests that CSR assurance prevalence is growing. It was found that despite its developing country status, the prevalence of CSR assurance by South African companies compared favourably with that of their counterparts in developed countries. In South Africa and the UK, the audit profession, led by the “Big 4” firms, is the dominant provider of CSR assurance. As the demand increases, the auditor’s role as a CSR assurance provider is expected to become increasingly more important, especially in South Africa, where the audit profession is highly regarded. This increased demand for assurance services will require the global audit profession’s paradigm to be re‐examined to include competence in contextual accounting and auditing.
South African training officers’ perceptions of the knowledge and skills requirements of entry‐level trainee accountants
Authors: Barac K.
Published: August 2011

Changes in business environments have challenged the competencies (technical knowledge, skills and attitudes) of professional accountants. Accounting professions have responded by developing competency frameworks. In 2008, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) issued a draft competency framework encapsulating a broad range of knowledge, skills and attributes. The objective of the study reported on here was to determine training officers’ perceptions of the knowledge and skills requirements of entry‐level trainee accountants. SAICA could consider the findings of this study in the finalisation of its competency framework. The study reveals that nearly three‐quarters of all the topics in the current prescribed SAICA syllabus are considered to make at least an important contribution to the knowledge requirements of entry‐level trainee accountants. Although more than half the management accounting topics prescribed in the SAICA syllabus are perceived as being only reasonably important, further statistical analysis revealed that TOPP (training outside public practice) training officers disagreed significantly with their TIPP (training inside public practice) counterparts on the importance of management accounting topics and perceived them to be at least important. Except for specialised topics, all other topics covering the remaining core subjects (Financial Accounting, Financial Management, Taxation and Auditing) were perceived to be important or even more than important by the respondents. The study demonstrates that there is a movement towards an expanded set of competencies beyond the technical knowledge typically taught to prospective CAs, and that there is evidence of a need for today’s entry‐level trainee accountants to receive training in communication, analytical, interpersonal and computer skills.
Factors influencing a prospective chartered accountant’s level of financial literacy: an exploratory study
Authors: de Clercq B. , Venter J.M.P.
Published: August 2011

Using exploratory research, this study analysed some of the factors that have an impact on the level of financial literacy of undergraduate students studying to become chartered accountants. The study utilised an internationally developed instrument to measure financial literacy. It investigated whether some of the factors that were identified in international studies also influence the financial literacy levels of chartered accountant students in South Africa. In line with previous international studies, the study concluded that gender, age, language, race and income levels do have an impact on the level of financial literacy. This information should enable chartered accountant firms to identify trainee accountants who might require special training in the field of financial literacy.
The use of multiples in the South African equity market: is the popularity of the price earnings ratio justifiable from a sector perspective?
Authors: Nel W.S.
Published: August 2011

The price earnings (P/E) ratio is generally regarded as the most popular multiple used to value equity in practice. Although this is supported by evidence from practice, the use of the P/E ratio has not been substantiated by evidence from research. This article investigates the accuracy of the five most popular multiples, including the P/E ratio, in valuing the equity of South African companies listed on the JSE Securities Exchange, for the period 1988 to 2007. The research results revealed that the P/E ratio does not perform the most accurate valuations across all sectors and that different multiples should be used for different sectors. There is an opportunity to enhance the accuracy of equity valuations based on multiples by employing multiples other than the P/E ratio.
CFC translation rules: is the taxpayer currently getting the short end of the stick?
Authors: van Heerden M.
Published: August 2011

Controlled foreign company (“CFC”) legislation, governed by section 9D of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962, serves as anti‐avoidance legislation in South Africa’s residence‐based tax system. Section 9D provides for the calculation of a deemed amount which must be included in the South African resident’s income. This deemed amount is calculated with reference to the net income for the CFC’s foreign tax year. Section 9D(6) provides for this deemed amount, which is denominated in the foreign financial reporting currency, to be translated into South African rand by applying the average exchange rate for that year of assessment. The legislation refers to the South African resident’s year of assessment and not the CFC’s foreign tax year. It is submitted that the average exchange rate for the CFC’s foreign tax year should be used for translation. The author therefore disputes the period to be used in calculating the average exchange rate.
Section 80A(c)(ii) of the Income Tax Act and the interpretation of tax statutes in South Africa
Authors: van Schalkwyk L. , Geldenhuys B.
Published: August 2011

Section 80A(c)(ii) of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962, as amended (the Act), introduced a new concept to the South African income tax environment: misuse or abuse of the provisions of the Act, including Part IIA thereof. According to the Revised Proposals on Tax Avoidance and section 103 of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962 (Revised Proposals) the rationale behind the insertion of section 80A(c)(ii) was to reinforce the modern approach to the interpretation of tax statutes “in order to find the meaning that harmonizes the wording, object, spirit and purpose of the provisions of the Income Tax Act”. The objective of this article is to examine the rationale behind section 80A(c)(ii) of the Act.
Factors that could influence the ethical behaviour of tax professionals
Authors: Nienaber S.G.
Published: August 2011

In an attempt to enhance the core professional values of tax practitioners in South Africa, the South African Revenue Service has proposed the regulation of tax practitioners’ services. It is arguable whether or not this would be the only factor to influence the ethical behaviour of tax practitioners. A literature review was conducted to identify factors that could influence the ethical behaviour of tax practitioners. Numerous possibilities emerged. It is therefore recommended that if regulation is to be successful, caution should be exercised in writing a code of best practice for tax practitioners.
A South African study comparing the effectiveness of computer‐based learning materials and face‐to‐face teaching
Authors: Halabi A.K. , Essop A. , Joosub T. , Padia N. , Vawda M. , Yasseen Y.
Published: August 2011

This paper compares the effectiveness of in‐house developed computer‐based learning (CBL) materials with face‐to‐face teaching. Two groups of higher education students were randomly assigned to complete tutorial work in one highly structured topic of introductory accounting using either CBL materials (treatment group) or face‐to‐face teaching (control group). The effectiveness of both approaches was measured according to the students’ performance in a class test, in relation to their prior accounting knowledge and gender. The results showed that the students with no prior accounting knowledge who completed the CBL materials achieved a significantly higher test mark than the face‐to‐face teaching group. However, there was no significant difference in the marks of the students with prior accounting knowledge, and there was no difference on the basis of gender. The results of this South African study correspond to results in existing literature in other countries, and contribute to the overall knowledge of the effectiveness of CBL materials with respect to prior accounting knowledge and gender.
An examination of the due process in South Africa which led to the adoption of the draft International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium‐sized Entities
Authors: Stainbank L.J.
Published: August 2011

Differential reporting was introduced in South Africa with the enactment of the Corporate Laws Amendment Act 24 2006. Since it was urgent that the standard‐setters provide limited interest companies with interim guidance as to the preparation and presentation of financial statements, South Africa adopted the International Accounting Standards Board’s International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Mediumsized Entities in its draft form. This study looks at the development of accounting standards for small and mediumsized entities in South Africa. It also examines analyses of prior research on differential reporting and the due process of the International Accounting Standards Board on this topic, as well as the due process of the South African standard‐setter. The paper provides a contextual analysis of the unique reporting environment of South African companies and concludes that adopting the draft IFRS for SMEs may have been the best option for the standard‐setting body in providing relief for limited interest companies from the cost of complying with the International Financial Reporting Standards while still enabling auditors to express an opinion on the financial statements.
Rapid casting solutions: a review
Authors: Chhabra Munish , Singh Rupinder
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to review the industrial applications of state‐of‐the‐art additive manufacturing (AM) techniques in metal casting technology. An extensive survey of concepts, techniques, approaches and suitability of various commercialised rapid casting (RC) solutions with traditional casting methods is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The tooling required for producing metal casting such as fabrication of patterns, cores and moulds with RC directly by using different approaches are presented and evaluated. Relevant case studies and examples explaining the suitability and problems of using RC solutions by various manufacturers and researchers are also presented.

Findings

Latest research to optimize the current RC solutions, and new inventions in processing techniques and materials in RC performed by researchers worldwide are also discussed. The discussion regarding the benefits of RC solutions to foundrymen, and challenges to produce accurate and cost‐effective RC amongst AM manufacturers concludes this paper.

Research limitations/implications

The research related to this survey is limited to the applicability of RC solutions to sand casting and investment casting processes. There is practically no implication in industrial application of RC technology.

Originality/value

This review presents the information regarding potential AM application – RC, which facilitates the fabrication of patterns, cores and moulds directly using the computer‐aided design data. The information available in this paper serves the purpose of researchers and academicians to explore the new options in the field of RC and especially users, manufacturers and service industries to produce casting in relatively much shorter time and at low cost and even to cast complex design components which otherwise was impossible by using traditional casting processes and CNC technology.
Rapid prototyping assisted fabrication of the customised temporomandibular joint implant: a case report
Authors: Deshmukh T.R. , Kuthe A.M. , Chaware S.M. , Vaibhav B. , Ingole D.S.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to find a successful treatment modality for patients suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis who could not be treated through traditional surgeries.

Design/methodology/approach

This work integrated the unique capabilities of the imaging technique, the rapid prototyping (RP) technology and the advanced manufacturing technique to develop the customised TMJ implant. The patient specific TMJ implant was fabricated using the computed tomography scanned data and the fused deposition modeling of RP for the TMJ surgery.

Findings

This approach showed good results in fabrication of the TMJ implant. Postoperatively, the patient experienced normalcy in the jaw movements.

Practical implications

Advanced technologies helped to fabricate the customised TMJ implant. The advantage of this approach is that the physical RP model assisted in designing the final metallic implant. It also helped in the surgical planning and the rehearsals.

Originality/value

This case report illustrates the benefits of imaging/computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing/RP to develop the customised implant and serve those patients who could not be treated in the traditional way.
Comparison of density measurement techniques for additive manufactured metallic parts
Authors: Spierings A.B. , Schneider M. , Eggenberger R.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

In the optimisation of processing parameters for additive manufactured parts using, e.g. selective laser melting (SLM) or electron beam melting, the measurement of the part densities is essential and of high interest. However, there is no common standard. Different institutes and system providers are using their own principles and guidelines. This study investigates the accuracies of the three measurement principles: Archimedes method, microscopic analysis of cross sections and X‐ray scanning.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 15 test samples on five density levels (densities between 90 and 99.5 per cent) were produced using the SLM process. The samples are analysed regarding the accuracy of the measurement principles and their reproducibility taking into account influencing parameters like the buoyancy of a sample in air (Archimedes method) or different magnifications of a cross section.

Findings

The Archimedes method shows a very high accuracy (±0.08 per cent for high densities) and repeatability (±<0.1 per cent) on all density levels. In contrast to the Archimedes method, taking a micrograph of a specific cross section allows to influence the resulting density and the coefficient of variation reaches values>4 per cent. However, for low porosities, mean densities are comparable to the results of the Archimedes method even though calculated densities are typically somewhat too high. The advantage of the image guided analysis (2D and 3D) is getting more information about the distribution, size and form of pores in the part.

Originality/value

The findings do not only refer to metallic parts but generally to all parts having a specific porosity. The study is a contribution to the American Society for Testing and Materials initiative F42 “Additive Manufacturing Technology” and especially to the subcommittee “test methods”.
3D printed tooling for thermoforming of medical devices
Authors: Chimento Jairo , Jason Highsmith M. , Crane Nathan
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the performance of 3D printed materials for use as rapid tooling (RT) molds in low volume thermoforming processes such as in manufacturing custom prosthetics and orthotics.

Design/methodology/approach

3D printed specimens of different materials were produced using the Z‐Corp process. The parts were post processed using both standard and alternative methods. Material properties relevant to the 3D printed parts such as pneumatic permeability, flexural strength and wear rate were measured and compared to standard plaster compositions commonly used.

Findings

Three‐dimensional printing (3DP) can replicate the performance of the plaster materials traditionally used in prosthetic/orthotic applications by using modified post process techniques. The resulting 3D printed molds can still be modified and adjusted using traditional methods. The results show that 3D printed molds are feasible for thermoforming prosthetic and orthotic devices such as prosthetic sockets while providing new flexibility.

Originality/value

The proposed method for RT of a mold for prosthetic/orthotic manufacturing provides great flexibility in the manufacturing and fitting process while maintaining proven materials in the final device provided to patients. This flexibility increases the value of digital medical records and efforts to develop model‐based approaches to prosthetic/orthotic device design by providing a readily available process for recreating molds. Depending on the needs of the practitioners and patients, 3DP can be incorporated at a variety of points in the manufacturing process.
Effective optimization of integrated circuits with embedded passive modules by applying semisymbolic LCS AC analysis method
Authors: Balik Franciszek
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a new method of optimization of electronic integrated circuits (IC) with imbedded passive modules (PM). The reported method constitutes an attempt to streamline the optimization process in the AC electrical model stage of the RF Microsystems design.

Design/methodology/approach

In this method, the PM are described in symbolic form while the IC blocks remain described numerically. Whole PM can be represented as some sequence of expressions containing crucial model parameters, nominal and parasitic, which are first precompiled and next, merged automatically with the main program.

Findings

The input data can be updated online according to the user's desiderata. Further, the system offers the possibility to optimize PM in diverse circumstances as well as using different technologies, and including parasitic effects.

Originality/value

Usage of the semi‐symbolic method for IC with embedded PM optimization based on large‐change sensitivity AC analysis method, which appears to be a very efficient and flexible approach to solving such problems.
Comparison of results from empirical ALT test to CAE simulation for wireless clients
Authors: Huang Chien‐Yi , Huang Hui‐Hua
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how to reduce the time and cost required to conduct reliability testing. With increasing competition in the electronics industry and reduction in product life cycles, it is essential to diminish the time required for new product development and thus time to market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts empirical sample test for wireless card and analyzes the fatigue life through finite element modeling (FEM). Simulation results are compared to the data collected from a temperature cycling test under conditions of −40°C to 150°C and −40°C to 100°C.

Findings

Assuming that the results of product lifetime from empirical sample test and software simulation exhibit a linear relationship, a “scale factor” should exist for any given product structure, process condition and materials composition scenario. The scale factors were found to be approximately 0.1 in both temperature cycling scenarios. Also, the effectiveness of various adhesive dispensing patterns on solder joint reliability is evaluated through software simulation. The L shape adhesive dispensing was proven to effectively enhance the fatigue life of chip scale package solder joints roughly 100‐fold.

Originality/value

The scale factor is used to convert the results from software simulation to empirical sample test for a given set of processing environments and materials. This helps to reduce the time and cost required to conduct reliability testing.
Elemental cost estimating: current UK practice and procedure
Authors: Soutos Michail , Lowe David J.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to establish the extent to which quantity surveyors undertake cost planning and the manner in which elemental cost estimating is currently applied. Elemental cost analysis is perhaps the best known product‐based cost model and provides the data upon which elemental cost planning is based. The technique has been used by quantity surveyors to base their predictions during the design stage since the 1950s. There has, however, been no recent attempt to establish the extent to which practicing quantity surveyors use this technique (if indeed they still do so) and the manner in which cost analysis is currently carried out.

Design/methodology/approach

A nationwide questionnaire survey of UK quantity surveying practices was undertaken. The survey sought to establish: the extent to which elemental cost estimates are prepared for proposed developments; the format used to prepare these estimates (together with the degree to which the BCIS Standard Form of Cost Analysis (SFCA) is still used); the factors that affect the use of elemental cost estimates; and the level of the detail to which these estimates are analysed. Further, the survey investigated the predilection within the surveying profession for single‐figure and elemental format cost models.

Findings

The study clearly establishes that UK quantity surveying practices routinely undertake elemental cost planning during the design phase of a project and that the BCIS SFCA is the most popular approach to cost planning. Further, it establishes that while around 70 per cent of the respondents would not currently use single figure estimating software, between 85 and 95 per cent indicated that they would be encouraged to use it if it was able to generate an elemental breakdown of its prediction.

Originality/value

The paper offers insights into the current use of cost planning and analysis methods in the UK.
A stakeholder‐based perspective in the value impact assessment of the project “Valuing intangible assets in Scottish renewable SMEs”
Authors: Lerro Antonio
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to provide an assessment of the value generated for the stakeholders by the implementation of the project “Valuing Intangible Assets in Renewable – VIA”, managed by the Intellectual Assets Center in Scotland. The project is aimed at supporting the adoption of intangible asset management initiatives for driving performance improvement and to enhance the organizational value creation capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operating in the renewable energy sector in Scotland, and specifically in the Highlands and Islands contexts. In order to understand the value impact of the VIA Project it is necessary to adopt a stakeholder‐based perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the lack of structured approaches for the task at the hand, this paper first introduces an interpretative framework. In particular, the “Stakeholder Value Matrix” is proposed as a structured approach to identify the value dimensions affected by the project. Then, the results of a qualitative analysis based on a panel of semi‐structured interviews carried out with a selected group of opinion‐leaders, aware and informed of the project, are illustrated.

Findings

A general positive judgement of the relevance and impact of the project at territorial level emerges. However, it seems that this project has had mostly an impact on the economic dimension rather on the socio‐cultural and environmental value.

Originality/value

Consistent with today's strategic view of the position and role of firms for the generation of sustainable wealth in the ecosystem, this paper presents the results of a stakeholder value‐based assessment. In particular, it not only investigates the value generated by the project in terms of value added enhancement of the firms involved in the program, but also analyses the socio‐cultural and environmental value dimensions.
Design and implementation of the Balanced Scorecard at a university institute
Authors: Philbin Simon P.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to identify how the management of university institutes can be improved through adoption of an integrated performance measurement system based on the Balanced Scorecard.

Design/methodology/approach

Through building on literature studies and management best practice, formulation of the performance measurement system was explored. The Balanced Scorecard solution was then designed and implemented at a university institute. Benefits and outcomes are discussed through reflective analysis of the case study investigation.

Findings

The study identified how the development of scorecard reports that include economic and non‐economic measures can improve the operational management of a university institute through providing tangible benefits to stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

The scorecard was investigated at an industry‐supported university institute and so features of the scorecard design and implementation may be less relevant to other types of organisations.

Practical implications

This research paper provides details on how the scorecard has been modified to provide an accessible and durable measurement system. The paper includes specific guidance for practitioners who are considering implementing the scorecard.

Social implications

The role of intellectual capital and soft measures as systemic determinants of performance is discussed and this is viewed in terms of university‐industry collaborations.

Originality/value

A comprehensive literature review underpins a two‐year research project involving strategy mapping, design and implementation of the Balanced Scorecard. Advice on modification of the scorecard and provision of representative data and information from reports serve to further the scorecard research agenda.
The development of a high‐tech international new venture as a process of acting
Authors: Mainela Tuija , Pernu Elina , Puhakka Vesa
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to analyze the development of high‐tech international new ventures as an acting process by individuals in relationship networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The study cross‐fertilizes research on internationalization of international new ventures, opportunity development of entrepreneurs and innovation development in technology‐based firms. A longitudinal case study on the development process of an international new venture operating in the software business is used as a base for analytical generalization and theory development.

Findings

The study illustrates events at three intertwined levels of acting on the development of an international new venture. It defines internal problem solving, external solution creation, opportunity selling and opportunity organizing as the behaviors driving the emergent, multi‐level process and embedding the venture in various networks.

Research limitations/implications

Statistical generalization based on common patterns experienced by several firms was not sought in this study. Using the process research approach with event‐based analysis, the study, however, provides an in‐depth analysis of international new venture development through the actions of individuals at the level of key events. The methods for examining a complex development process over time can be utilized by other process researchers.

Practical implications

The complexity of building high‐tech international new ventures is, to a great extent, due to the necessity of handling the process at three levels simultaneously and in connection with one another. Since international new ventures are often based on business opportunities that have a short window of opportunity, the timeline creates further challenges. Embedding the business into various resourcing, legitimizing and otherwise assisting networks is crucial.

Originality/value

The study provides an insight into the ways of acting in networks that intertwines the internationalization, opportunity and technology development with development of a high‐tech international new venture. The study follows the development process in real time, something that is quite rare in previous international entrepreneurship research.
The impact of internationalisation on small firms' choice of location and propensity for relocation
Authors: Rasmussen Erik , Møller Jensen Jan , Servais Per
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The primary focus of this paper is to examine the international (import and export) activities of the firm and the impact on the firms' criteria for choice of location and the propensity for relocation.

Design/methodology/approach

A web survey was carried out among small and medium‐sized Danish firms. Data used in the present study are based on responses from 622 firms. The analysis is conducted in two sub‐sections. The first section focuses on how export/import intensity is related to the location motives of the firm and the propensity to relocate the firm to another national location or abroad. Pearson's correlation with corresponding test of significance is used to explore the possible relationships between the international engagement and the firm's criteria for choice of location. In the second section the responding firms are classified into one of four categories, as suggested in a local/global typology. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is conducted in order to assess whether there exist any significant differences between the four types of firms with regard to the location motives and relocation propensity for the firms.

Findings

The study shows that the international engagement of the firm influences the need for better location with regard to infrastructure (especially airport and highways) and to a lesser degree other types of infrastructure (railways and harbours). Interestingly, firms put less emphasis on the direct economic factors (infrastructure) compared with access to customers/suppliers, local network and, above all, access to research institutions. The study shows that international firms put significantly more emphasis on the relationship with research institutions than more local firms. The study also indicates that a higher international engagement increases the firm's intention to relocate abroad, which could be one of the unwanted sides of firms' internationalisation.

Originality/value

Guided by insights from location and relocation theory and international entrepreneurship theory, the connection between firms' export and import engagement and the reasons for location and propensity for relocation are explored. The paper also suggests an internationalisation typology of firms that can be used in future research on the internationalisation of the firm.
Knowledge assimilation processes of rapidly internationalising firms
Authors: Fletcher Margaret , Prashantham Shameen
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The accumulation of knowledge and learning by firms has been identified as being critical to their internationalisation. This paper aims to explore the knowledge assimilation processes of rapidly internationalising small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative enquiry in two stages. First, four case studies were selected from firms that were participating in an internationalisation programme run by Scottish Enterprise, the regional development agency. Data collection involved semi‐structured interviews with chief executive officers (CEOs) and programme providers, and archival data. Second, two focus groups were held with six CEOs participating in the programme.

Findings

The findings indicate that knowledge sharing is important for rapidly internationalising SMEs and that firms adopted high levels of formality in assimilating knowledge. Two key aspects of formality were identified as important; formal planned events to share explicit and tacit knowledge and the codification of tacit to explicit knowledge. Knowledge may be assimilated less formally by the retention of tacit knowledge as tacit, while utilising elements of formality. The paper finds that learning for internationalisation can be transferred to support domestic growth.

Practical implications

It is important for firms to develop appropriate knowledge assimilation processes within their management systems to support internationalisation. The CEO and management team need to take the lead in marshalling commitment to learning processes and in cultivating an organisational culture that is supportive of learning.

Originality/value

This research contributes to international entrepreneurship by providing insights into the knowledge assimilation processes employed by rapidly internationalising SMEs to manage the tensions between the need for greater formality to be efficient at learning, and informality to enable speedy decision making.
Value creation of an internationalizing entrepreneurial firm
Authors: Sainio Liisa‐Maija , Saarenketo Sami , Nummela Niina , Eriksson Taina
Published: August 2011

Purpose

In order to respond to the call for a broader perspective on the internationalization of entrepreneurial firms, this study aims to bring the business model concept to the context of international entrepreneurship, with special emphasis on the notion of value formation and value exchange at company interfaces.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a cross‐case study based on qualitative data from business model workshops with key company informants in each case firm.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate that, although the business models of firms with comparable positions may appear similar, there are fine‐grained differences both in their activities and in their value formation. In addition, the data collection workshops revealed that firms tend to neglect the inspection of their incentives to their partners, as they concentrate on value formation to end‐customers.

Practical implications

From the managerial point of view, the study shows how the managers of international entrepreneurial firms may describe and analyze their business model, including the whole value chain, systematically from the perspective of value exchange. Firms may gain insights from examining the business models of similar organizations.

Originality/value

Even though the role of the business model has also been discussed in previous studies, it has not been so explicitly pronounced in the domain of international entrepreneurship. The paper contributes to previous business model conceptualizations by adding the notion of value exchange at the company interfaces.
Internationalisation and the internet in UK manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Kevin Tseng Ko‐Min , Johnsen Rhona E.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the influence of the internet on the internationalisation process and international customer relationship interactions of UK manufacturing small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). The paper is positioned at the interface of the literature on international entrepreneurship and the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the findings from multiple case studies of ten UK manufacturing SMEs from a variety of UK sectors, producing high‐, medium‐ and low‐tech offerings. In‐depth interviews with directors or managers of the SMEs were conducted. Individual and cross‐case analysis was carried out using coding frameworks to reduce and analyse the data and capture patterns in the findings.

Findings

The findings reveal how the influence of the internet in the internationalisation process and international customer relationship interactions differed in the high‐, medium‐or low‐tech SME categories. The influence of the internet differed across three main dimensions: the way in which the SMEs invested in and used different internet applications for internationalisation and customer relationship support, the SMEs' perceptions of the internet as a tool to support communication with international customers; the SMEs' reliance on more personal and interactive forms of contact with international customers.

Practical implications

The results demonstrate that the level of technological advancement of an SME's offerings has an important bearing on how these firms adopt the internet in their internationalisation process and gain advantages in their international customer interactions. The managerial implications of the study are relevant for manufacturing SMEs, their customers and government agencies involved with SMEs.

Originality/value

This research is amongst the first empirical contributions to examine the themes of the internet, internationalisation and international customer interactions in UK manufacturing SMEs and to highlight the importance of the level of technological advancement of an SME's offerings in distinguishing the ways in which the internet is used by entrepreneurial small firms in their internationalisation process.