bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating value through cooperation
Authors: Lawson Rob , Guthrie John , Cameron Alan , Fischer Wolfgang Chr.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

Farmers' markets have provided new alternatives for small producers to obtain direct distribution to consumers over the past few years. The growth has been spectacular in several countries and this paper aims to understand this growth and how value might be created by looking at participation and cooperation amongst the traders at these markets.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of farmers' market members was undertaken and findings are reported with descriptive statistics and exploratory analysis to profile aspects of cooperation amongst stallholders.

Findings

Over 80 per cent of the traders at the markets were involved in some form of cooperative activity, reinforcing the idea of markets as community‐based activities with high levels of interdependence amongst participants. Cooperation could be identified in different categories and increased over the length of time trading at the market but could not be directly related to performance or the reasons traders offered for doing business at the market.

Research limitations/implications

The research was designed as an exploratory study and provides potential issues for further research as opposed to testing particular hypotheses.

Practical implications

The categorisation of cooperation methods offers traders ways in which they might seek to more formally organise joint efforts. Monitoring the degree of cooperation between traders and linking to performance would also provide the organisers of markets with a potential way of managing aspects of competitive advantage against competing food retailers.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to examine value creation and cooperation in this context and it provides a potential base for working towards sustainable competitive advantage for farmers' markets.
Value innovation in the functional foods industry
Authors: Matthyssens Paul , Vandenbempt Koen , Berghman Liselore
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on how new value creation can be driven by value innovation. It aims to study the process of value innovation within the functional foods industry, one of the fastest‐growing segments of the food industry. The paper seeks to highlight value innovation efforts by ingredient suppliers in the functional foods industry and to describe how suppliers seek to break the dominant logic, highlighting drivers of and obstacles to doing so.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds on a qualitative methodology. Two focus groups with participants from different levels in the industry's value chain were organized, combined with in‐depth interviews with managers and industry experts. This interpretive approach allows for the identifications of managerial cognitions, considered a necessity, given the fact that these types of innovations are hard‐to‐detect strategic “embryos” and they must be continuously contrasted against the experienced “industry recipe”.

Findings

The study pin‐points contrasting business logics at different levels in the chain, which might block value innovation. Value innovation initiatives in this industry are undertaken along two dimensions: breaking the dominant chain logic through new forms of collaboration and/or by crossing existing industry boundaries; and breaking the dominant product focus through introducing original value concepts. This study also revealed that upstream companies increasingly build competencies for value innovation.

Research limitations/implications

Given the qualitative methodology, the study remains explorative in nature. Nevertheless, it can form the basis for further research by offering an approach to “operationalize” the identification of value innovation initiatives.

Practical implications

This research provides tools for managers in the food industry to question their value creation processes. For food companies the paper contains interesting thoughts on the industry recipes, methods for value innovation in this industry and suggestions on how to boost the value innovation propensity.

Originality/value

This is a first application of value innovation in the functional foods industry. The methodological approach used to identify the industry recipe and the dimensions found for categorizing value innovation efforts are also contributing to the “general” value innovation literature.
Y2K: is there a lesson in the bug that did not bite?
Authors: King Ernest W. , Winters Drew B.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to determine if banks that solved the Y2K problem early created value for their shareholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of analysis is an event study.

Findings

The primary finding of the analysis is that solving the Y2K problem did not create value for bank shareholders. That is, announcements of solving the Y2K problem were not accompanied with positive stock price reactions.

Research limitations/implications

While the paper does not find support for a positive reaction to solving Y2K, it does find some evidence of concerns about banks that were having trouble solving Y2K. However, the sample size of banks with problems was small and therefore we caution readers about generalizing these results.

Practical implications

All banks needed to solve the Y2K problem, but those solving Y2K do not appear to create value for their shareholders. From this we conclude that it is better to buy the solution to a required project than to develop it internally.

Originality/value

This paper is of interest to anyone in a capital budgeting decision making process that includes required projects.
A model for outsourcing HRD
Authors: Simmonds David , Gibson Rebecca
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of approaches to outsourcing HRD in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs semi‐structured interviews and case studies. The research model was developed from a literature review.

Findings

There are many problems associated with outsourcing any or all aspects of the HRD function. Approaches to outsourcing vary between firms, largely because their impetus for taking training outside is likely to differ. There are certain key issues that need to be considered when trying to make an outsourced HRD strategy successful in any organization: making the right decision about what to outsource; engaging the right providers; and putting measures in place to build and maintain a strong, trusting, effective relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The model should be further tested, applied and refined as necessary.

Practical implications

Organizations wishing to outsource HRD could be guided by the model and findings of this research.

Originality/value

A novel and innovative two‐part model was developed from a literature review and tested against two large well‐known UK organizations. It will be of value to HRD managers and researchers.
Novel benzothiazapine azo dyes: synthesis, characterisation and printing properties
Authors: Helal M.H. , Elgemeie G.H. , El‐kashouti M.A. , El‐zaher Ahmed K.A.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesise new heterocyclic disperse azo dyes based on benzothiazapine moiety and their printability on synthetic fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

Ethyl cyanoacetate was refluxed with aniline derivatives for 3 h to form cyanoacetanilides which coupled with different diazonium salts. The products obtained were cyclised with 2‐amino thiophenol to form arylazo benzothiazapine derivatives. The structures of the new dyes were characterised by micro‐analysis as well as IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. Printing pastes containing the dyestuffs prepared and thickened with sodium alginate were used for printing synthetic fabrics using either transfer printing or traditional screen printing.

Findings

New heterocyclic monoazo dyes derived from benzothiazabine moiety were obtained by the coupling of diazotised aniline derivatives with ethylcyanoacetate anilides followed by cyclisation with 2‐amino thiophenol. The use of synthesised dyes for transfer‐ or screen‐printing polyester and nylon 6 fabrics has been studied. The synthesised dyes which contain electron withdrawing substituents (NO2) in the phenyl ring attached to the azo groups and electron‐donating (OCH3) group on the other phenyl ring exert a bathochromic effect.

Research limitations/implications

Synthesis of azo dyes containing benzothiazapine moiety has never been reported in textile printing.

Practical implications

Production of simple and less costly dyes.

Originality/value

Synthesis of aryl azo benzothiazapine dyes by a simple method and application in printing of synthetic fabrics.
Surface or deep change? How is a curriculum change implemented at ground level?
Authors: Bee Sng Bee
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find out how organizational and contextual factors affect a curriculum change in a University in Singapore. There is a need to research the processes of educational change in Singapore as rapid changes can result in complex problems. The university is chosen as it is at the forefront of the government's strategy for economic planning. It is also hoped that through this case study investigation of curriculum educational change of this University's Engineering School, the importance of considering people's situations and their roles in the educational change can be highlighted. Previously, students undertook one year of common engineering curriculum when they enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering program in this University. This has, however, been expanded to a two‐year common engineering program. This study examines the academic staff's collaboration and communication in implementing the curriculum change. This study investigates the organizational factors that influence the academics' communication in a curriculum change.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method used is documentary analysis of curriculum, planning and policy documents as well as annual reports.

Findings

The interviewees concurred on the points that there should be more consideration of their views on the curricular issues in the University, and that top‐down decisions should be incorporated with bottom‐up input. This study discovers that more attention should be paid to students' learning, particularly in developing skills that will help them adapt to a knowledge‐based economy and rapid economic developments. In general, the academics desired a greater and deeper involvement in decisions on curriculum changes so that they could contribute their professional and pedagogical viewpoints.

Originality/value

This study show the importance of examining the factors that influence academics to change and the stages they go through. It also shows the need to involve academics at every stage of a curriculum change.
Conducting culturally appropriate qualitative market research in the Native American landscape
Authors: Haring Rodney
Published: January 2008

Purpose

Qualitative research in the field of market research is ever‐growing and has the capability of changing from sunrise to sunset. This paper aims to add a Native American perspective, one that peers from inside the reservation community outwards, into the non‐native qualitative market research environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Introductory description of an indigenous‐based qualitative market research protocol is discussed. A native‐based elder care facility in the reservation environment is used as an example to facilitate conversation on developing an indigenous‐based model as it relates to non‐native qualitative market research methods.

Findings

The paper provides information that is useful when preparing proposals and/or selecting firms to employ in the Native American landscape. The roots of this paper can aid readers to build, implement, and understand culturally sensitive processes in developing a native relevant qualitative model that interacts with current and future market systems.

Practical implications

A list of questions is provided for native committees to use when selecting firms to provide qualitative market research services. The question list also provides a template for non‐native consulting firms to use in the proposal development process.

Originality/value

This paper provides an indigenous model of qualitative market research. It is proposed as a valuable tool for both First Nation communities and non‐native consulting firms world‐wide.
CAQDAS: a supplementary tool for qualitative market research
Authors: Rettie Ruth , Robinson Helen , Radke Anja , Ye Xiajiao
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The aims of the paper are twofold: to assess the usage of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis (CAQDAS) in the UK market research industry; and to evaluate the use of CAQDAS as a supplement to paper‐coding in market research.

Design/methodology/approach

CAQDAS usage was assessed by a questionnaire, sent to a sample of 400 UK market researchers. The second part of the research is a case study of a research experiment. The authors conducted focus group research into online grocery shopping, supplementing a paper‐coding‐based analysis with a further analysis based on computer coding.

Findings

Usage of CAQDAS in commercial market research is very low at only 9 percent. The research suggests that CAQDAS can be a useful supplement to traditional methods. Using computer software, the paper was able to mine the data for more detail; clearly identify minority views; and produce a useful resource for future research.

Research limitations/implications

The survey response rate was 38 percent, but only 13 respondents used CAQDAS. Generalisation from a single experiment is problematic; the findings are affected by the research topic, research briefs and the two research analysts.

Practical implications

The study has important implications for commercial qualitative market research. Repositioning CAQDAS as supplementary, rather than as an alternative, circumvents arguments about time pressure, and highlights its data management role.

Originality/value

This is the first large‐scale survey of qualitative research analysis in the UK market research industry. The case study describes an approach to CAQDAS that is innovative and relevant to commercial market research.
Jargon as imagining: Barthes' semiotics and excavating subcultural communication
Authors: de Burgh‐Woodman Hélène , Brace‐Govan Jan
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to expand existing qualitative parameters in current marketing research discourse by integrating Barthesian theory into the study of subcultural marketplaces.

Design/methodology/approach

While essentially conceptual in nature, this paper adopts a comprehensive intertextual, semiotic approach which argues for the substantive investigation of the marketing text as a foundation for understanding consumption in a subcultural context.

Findings

To date, the integration of Barthesian intertextual theory has proved to be an effective method of interrogating subculturally‐oriented materials.

Practical implications

Marketers, in commercial contexts, will access a greater depth of insight into the subcultural market by applying an intertextual, semiotic framework as demonstrated in this paper.

Originality/value

While marketing discourse has taken interest in semiotics, this has typically occurred via the work of US semiologists, rather than the French school in their organic form. This is one of the first papers to locate Barthes within the marketing paradigm as a potential analytical framework. The paper suggests ways in which his influential theories may be applied as a viable analytical tool in qualitative research.
A novel solid freeforming method using simultaneous part and mould construction
Authors: Yang S. , Mohebi M.M. , Evans J.R.G.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a new powder‐based solid freeforming method based on conventional furnace sintering after co‐deposition of mould and part powder materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on acoustic powder deposition, both mould and part powder materials are delivered simultaneously into the forming area according to the cross section of the 3D computer file. The part is formed in the form of loose powder surrounded by the mould powder again in a loose state. The whole assembly can then be sintered by a conventional method and the mould powder, which has a higher sintering temperature than that of part powder, remains in the loose state after sintering and can be removed.

Findings

Complex‐shaped components containing re‐entrant cavities and the capability of being made with 3D functional gradients can be rendered directly as a powder preform suitable for subsequent compaction or direct sintering in a conventional furnace. The flowability and compatibility of the powders need to be selected carefully and the track distance between part/mould powders is important for forming a vertical wall.

Research limitations/implications

The main factors affecting building from powder tracks are identified, including the effect of track distance at an interface on integrity, discontinuous feeding on bends and the effects of fill strategies. The flow rates of the part and mould powder as well as their geometrical maps are controlled computationally. Materials and instrumental aspects are discussed.

Originality/value

This paper describes a method to produce complex‐shaped object without residual stress and expensive lasers and the process could be modified to include 3D functional gradients.
The challenges of supply strategy selection in a project environment: evidence from UK naval shipbuilding
Authors: Sanderson Joe , Cox Andrew
Published: January 2008

Purpose

There is a view that firms should decide between a lean or agile approach to supply management primarily on the basis of whether their product offering is “functional” (predictable demand, low variety and a long life cycle) or “innovative” (unpredictable demand, high variety and a short life cycle). This paper aims to present and test the proposition that this dichotomy is less useful in complex, one‐off project environments, such as shipbuilding or construction, because projects typically require the assembly of many different, largely functional, products in a unique or innovative configuration.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports a case study focusing on one of the supply chains serving a major UK shipyard. The case study data were gathered by means of semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews with key personnel (procurement, sales, production, materials management and engineering/design) from each company within the defined supply chain.

Findings

The case study reveals that the design and build process used in the shipyard introduces radical unpredictability into the demand for “functional” components of naval vessels.

Originality/value

The paper raises important questions as to the conceptual robustness and the empirical generalisability of some of the extant literature on supply strategy selection. In particular, the case study suggests that a core assumption – that the demand for functional products is relatively predictable – is not sustainable in the context of project specific supply chains where the ultimate demand is generated by an active organisational buyer.
Facilitating learning and knowledge transfer through supplier development
Authors: Giannakis Mihalis
Published: January 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how supplier development programmes can be adapted to create value for organisations through generation and transfer of knowledge between supply chain partners.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the existing literature on supplier development, knowledge transfer and learning and on the interaction model of the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing group, certain factors that condition learning and knowledge transfer through supplier development programmes are discussed and a conceptual framework for improving knowledge transfer is developed. Empirical research is conducted in four large multinational organisations, exploring how supply chain partners can better utilise their capabilities and facilitate knowledge transfer through these programmes.

Findings

Several organisational and relational factors that affect the success of knowledge transfer in supplier development programmes are identified and discussed and several management practices are proposed to enhance the knowledge transfer process within these programmes.

Research limitations/implications

The research provides evidence that knowledge transfer requires not only financial commitment and strategic decision making, but also appropriate design and execution of certain processes and a distinctive governance structure. Based on the findings a research agenda is proposed to investigate the impact of knowledge transfer on suppliers' productivity and the associated risk arising from knowledge leakages.

Practical implications

A systematic methodology is proposed to explore how supplier development programmes can achieve their potential among supply chain partners, by examining how certain factors influence the knowledge transfer process.

Originality/value

The paper proposes an innovative framework for analysing knowledge transfer among and between organisations and a knowledge‐based perspective in the design and management of supplier development programmes, so that a learning and knowledge transfer environment can be fostered.
Serving under‐serviced areas in South Africa: the potential for Wi‐Fi community network deployment and the role of regulation
Authors: van Gorp Annemijn , Morris Chris
Published: January 2008

Purpose

Wi‐Fi technologies enable small‐scale, bottom‐up development of community networks in (rural) under‐serviced areas in developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to examine: the constraints and opportunities that small Wi‐Fi providers have faced to date in their endeavors to develop Wi‐Fi community networks in South Africa; and the extent to which the newly introduced Electronic Communications Act of 2006 might alleviate any of the constraints.

Design/methodology/approach

Through interviews and document analysis the paper analyzes regulations and license application procedures in South Africa, and exemplifies the impact of both through discussion of experiences of a municipal and small private Wi‐Fi provider.

Findings

While formal regulation prohibits community network deployment due to low power limits and restriction of the use of Wi‐Fi within private premises, informal regulatory constraints as a result of lack of clarity on licensing requirements as well as time‐consuming application processes further prevent small Wi‐Fi providers from entering the market. In order to further stimulate universal access strategies, regulators may find incentives to ease these constraints, particularly as innovations in wireless technologies will continue to increase bottom‐up development of ICT networks by small local entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs, without extensive expertise in law and regulation, will increase the burden and workload of regulators that, particularly in developing countries, frequently face under‐capacity.

Originality/value

This paper extends the debate about spectrum‐licensing barriers for Wi‐Fi community network development in developing countries by providing insight into not only formal but also informal regulatory constraints that impede Wi‐Fi community network provision.
Higher education for sustainability: seeking affective learning outcomes
Authors: Shephard Kerry
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to interpret aspects of education for sustainability in relation to educational theories of the affective domain (values, attitudes and behaviours) and suggest how the use of these theories, and relevant experience, in other educational areas could benefit education for sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis based on a literature review of relevant educational endeavours in affective learning.

Findings

This paper suggests that most teaching and assessment in higher education focus on cogitative skills of knowledge and understanding rather than on affective outcomes of values, attitudes and behaviours. Some areas of higher education, however, have effectively pursued affective outcomes and these use particular learning and teaching activities to do so. Key issues for consideration include assessing outcomes and evaluating courses, providing academic credit for affective outcomes, key roles for role models and designing realistic and acceptable learning outcomes in the affective domain.

Practical implications

Educators for sustainability could use this relevant theoretical underpinning and experience gained in other areas of education to address the impact of their own learner‐support activities.

Originality/value

Educators have traditionally been reluctant to pursue affective learning outcomes but often programmes of study simply fail to identify and describe their legitimate aims in these terms. This paper emphasises the application of a relevant theoretical underpinning to support educators' legitimate aspirations for affective learning outcomes. It will also help these educators to reflect on how the use of these approaches accords with the liberal traditions of higher education.
Impact of the internal business environment on knowledge management within construction organisations
Authors: Chen Le , Mohamed Sherif
Published: January 2008

Purpose

Recent knowledge management (KM) literature suggests that KM activities are influenced by the elements of the internal business environment (BE) of organisations. This paper attempts to provide some unique insights into the contextual input of the KM process through empirically identifying the major factors (i.e. “forces”) within the internal BE of construction organisations operating in Hong Kong, and investigating their impact on the intensity of KM activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was administered to a sample of construction contractors operating in Hong Kong to elicit opinions on the internal BE and intensity of KM activities as executed by targeted organisations. A total of 149 usable responses were received from 99 organisations representing about 38 percent of the research population. In parallel, to the survey, a total of 15 semi‐structured interviews were undertaken to provide more insights into the phenomenon under investigation.

Findings

Supported by the empirical and qualitative evidence, this study established that firstly, both organisational and technical environments have the capacity to either positively or negatively impact the intensity of KM activities, and both environments serve as stimuli in increasing each other's dynamism; secondly, certain types of KM activities are stronger “energy receivers” and easily to be “powered up” by manipulating factors representing these two environments. Then, through interactions between KM activities, the intensity of the whole strategic KM cycle will be increased thus helping to strengthen organisational competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The impact of internal BE on KM activities was both empirically and qualitatively investigated, from a strategic perspective, within the construction business context.
User perceptions of software with embedded spyware
Authors: Sipior Janice C. , Ward Burke T.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a research model and hypotheses that explores software users' perceptions of privacy, trust, and US legal protection in using application software with embedded spyware.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental study was undertaken requiring subjects to use an online analytical processing software product. After use, the experimental group was told spyware was embedded in the software. Questionnaire responses for the experimental and control group were compared using independent samples t‐test. Multiple regression was used to determine significant predictors of overall trust in the software vendor.

Findings

Users of software with spyware, versus users of software without spyware, have lower trust perceptions of a software vendor. Further examination of trustworthiness as a multi‐dimensional construct, reveals trustworthiness‐ability and trustworthiness‐integrity are important influences of overall trust of a vendor.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of the findings is the use of a convenience sample, limiting the generalizability of the results.

Practical implications

The results may provide guidance to software vendors and government regulatory agencies in addressing the concerns associated with spyware.

Originality/value

Software vendors should rethink the practice of embedding spyware in software applications, unless user trust can be maintained.
The Law and Defamation: An Australian Case
Authors: Perry Peter J.
Published: January 2008

The law has an increasing impact on business operations. This article reviews the relevance of the law to auditing practice based on the current legislation operating in Australia which can serve as a basis of comparison with other countries.
Team Management and Auditing
Authors: Margerison Charles J. , McCann D.J.
Published: January 2008

The audit manager has a key task in being a managerial linker to ensure top team performance. This article highlights key points to guide professional practice and shows the use of a new instrument called the Team Management Index.
THAT AWKWARD QUESTION — HOW TO PUT IT
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: January 2008

Auditors frequently ask questions that are regarded as awkward or inconvenient by those who are expected to answer them. The psychologist's distinction between personality and item characteristic is explained. Questions that are socially desirable and those that are socially undesirable are discussed. To maximise undistorted response, the classic question ‘“Did you kill your wife?” is used. Ten possible approaches to reducing bias, with which the auditor may wish to experiment, are then considered.
OPEN vs CLOSED QUESTIONS — A CLOSED QUESTION?
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: January 2008

The respective merits of open and closed questions are suggested. Research evidence is then presented. A consideration of the factors that indicate which type of question to opt for is described and a mixed diet of closed and open questions is recommended.
INTERNAL AUDITING AND ACTION LEARNING
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: January 2008

An outline of worldwide surveys and research related to the training of internal auditors is given. A comparison of managers in the UK and those in Europe, USA and Japan is made. The growth of internal auditing as a profession is traced and the relevance and application of action learning to internal auditing is stated. The question “Are professional bodies ready for action learning?” is asked.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR INTERNAL AUDIT — THE CHALLENGE IN SOUTH EAST ASIA
Authors: Cooper Barry J.
Published: January 2008

South East Asia is the area for challenge, opportunities and expansion. An overview of the opportunities in various SE Asian regions is given, together with a commentary of how these opportunities can be seized and capitalised upon.
When Quality is Considered Why Buy British?
Authors: Mortiboys R.J.
Published: January 2008

In this article the author notes the tendency in the UK to protect the short‐term interests of groups and individuals and our failure to develop coherent industrial and economic policies. He then outlines the need for cost‐effective quality management and believes it is no exaggeration to say that success in the management of quality is proportional to the quality of management. The dangers of imposing quality assurance as distinct from quality management are also pointed out.
Making Quality Everybody's Business
Authors: Hutchins D.
Published: January 2008

This article, intended to show that industrial competitiveness depends on an effective strategy for quality improvement, begins by looking at the various definitions of quality to show that quality means different things in different contexts. It then goes on to explain how quality strategies can only be effective if they involve all levels of staff and include both well‐planned and well‐implemented systems of Quality Control. The development of people‐based quality improvement programmes requires the support of management at all levels, and the paper shows how this can be achieved through the creation of management task force teams. These, in conjunction with Quality Circles, can be organised to involve all people at all levels in the process of making their organisation the best in its business.
Reliability Concepts Applied to Service Industries
Authors: Hashim Mohammad
Published: January 2008

This article sets out to prove that the basic concepts and techniques of reliability engineering, which are normally applied to material products, can also be applied effectively to intangible services. It deals in some detail with the power and communication industries and refers also to government.
Is Reliability Assessment Worthwhile?
Authors: Thomas F.H.
Published: January 2008

The article first examines some of the important criteria involved in evaluating the worth of a reliability and cost analysis facility within a manufacturing company. Using the author's specific experience, examples are given under each heading. It is argued that the benefits which may arise from reliability assessment can, in monetary terms, be very substantial, easily offsetting the cost of the activity.
Control of Critical Attributes Defectives in Can Making
Authors: Price Frank
Published: January 2008

In any multi‐stage production process poor quality from earlier stages is detrimental to the quality achievable at a later stage. Furthermore, since the raw materials of one conversion process are the finished goods of a previous conversion process — that of the raw material supplier — the same condition prevails. Thus the imposition of high quality requirements at the conclusion of a manufacturer's operations demands the imposition of high quality standards on all preceding stages of production. This Right First Time approach, if it is to be successful, has to be enforced right back to the beginning of the production operation, and even further back into the processes of the raw material suppliers. This article describes the application of this total approach to product and process quality as it was successfully and profitably implemented in a can‐manufacturing enterprise.
Elements of Axiomatics for the Quality Control of Mass Produced Parts
Authors: Perdijon Jean
Published: January 2008

Eight axioms, usually implicitly assumed, are formulated. They concern the correlation between non‐destructive and destructive testing, the constitution of a lot, the specification of the maximal permissible fraction of parts having a defect larger than a maximal permissible size, the monitoring of the adjustments of NDT equipments by control charts, the determination of the rejection measurement taking the lack of precision of equipments into account, and the acceptance inspection by the consumer.
Statistical Techniques and the Management of Quality Improvement
Authors: Payne B.J.
Published: January 2008

In this article the author first reviews the management activities of “control”, “improvement” and “the rest”. Using various examples, the use of people and data are explained in the management of control and improvement. It is concluded that if companies are to improve their product's quality, they must review the needs for improvement of data collection and presentation and the quality skills needed at all managerial levels.
Improving the Quality of Service
Authors: Christopher Martin
Published: January 2008

More often than not when “quality” is under review in the organisation the focus tends to be very much product‐oriented. Whilst clearly product quality is a vital factor in achieving success in the market place, it should also be remembered that the customer buys much more than a set of tangible features when purchasing a product or service. Indeed, it is often the “intangibles” that surround and augment the product that determine the customer's choice between competitive offerings. The focus of this article is on one of the major elements that forms a part of this “product surround”—customer service—and on the need for a strategy of quality in this vital area.
DOCTOR — A Whole‐Life Reliability Cost Model
Authors: Wheatcroft P.A.C.
Published: January 2008

The need for guidance in setting reliability requirements for military equipment is explored and the conclusions of a study into the feasibility of constructing a reliability cost model are summarised. A suite of three reliability cost models is described together with the results of example applications.
Credibility as a Quantification of Software Reliability
Authors: Veevers A. , Davies K.A.
Published: January 2008

This article reports the first phase of an investigation into the quantification of software reliability. Following an extensive literature search the current approaches are critically reviewed. The difficulties in interpretation attached to quantifications in probabilistic terms are highlighted. The notion of software credibility is proposed as a means of condensing quality assurance techniques into a measure of reliability suitable for use in general reliability assessments.
The Application of Probabilistic Risk Assessments in Demonstrating the Adequacy of Safety in the Design of Nuclear Chemical Plants
Authors: Hensley G.
Published: January 2008

The Reprocessing Engineering Division of British Nuclear Fuels undertakes the design of nuclear chemical plants for construction and subsequent operation at the Sellafield Works of the Reprocessing Operations Division. Plant construction cannot take place until it has been demonstrated that the chosen design will allow the plant to operate in an adequately safe manner, corresponding to an extremely low level of risk. Risk, or the cumulative frequency and consequences of all potential hazards, is evaluated by means of probabilistic risk assessments (PRA).
Quality Costing — A Practical Approach
Authors: Carson J.K.
Published: January 2008

Total Quality Management has, as one of its cornerstones, the measurement of quality‐related costs. These establish where the main areas of failure costs are and also monitor the progress of the Quality Improvement Programme. A practical approach to both these aspects is contained in this article.
Review of Problems with a Quality Cost System
Authors: Whitehall F.B.
Published: January 2008

Despite the widespread acceptance of the benefits of quality cost systems very few of the systems have attained their full potential. This article looks at some of the problems which have prevented the realisation of the goals and suggests some alternative strategies. These ideas are presented against an evolving company system.
The Strategic Management of Quality: A Conceptual Synthesis
Authors: Walsh Malcolm
Published: January 2008

Various conceptual models are brought together to provide a comprehensive approach for the strategic management of quality at the business level. A synopsis of these models is given, and these are related to each other. Using strategic planning models, implications are drawn for the management of quality control systems, quality cost procedures and organisational procedures.
Metalworking Accuracy and Small Batch Production
Authors: McGoldrick Peter F. , Melay Alexander M.
Published: January 2008

The structure presented here could be useful in the determination and presentation of the accuracy of a metal working process as determined by both surface finish and size. The difference in small‐batch production is recognised and emphasis is placed thereon, but the structure examined is suitable for all types of metalworking process, whether or not computer supervision and control is involved.
Product Liability and Quality Assurance
Authors: McRobb M.R.M.
Published: January 2008

The relationship between product liability and quality assurance is discussed and the role of the latter in minimising risk is examined. The future impact of the EEC Directive on liability is emphasised.
Analysis of Reliability Data Using Graphic‐Based Interactive Techniques
Authors: Allan R.N. , Abu‐Sheikhah N.M.
Published: January 2008

Analytic and computational techniques for evaluating reliability functions and data are described. Estimation and goodness‐of‐fit tests using graphical methods and interactive procedures are presented, based on several alternative distributions.
Inspection by Attributes: A Method of Comparing Rules for Passing Between Normal and Tightened Inspection
Authors: Hobbs C.F.
Published: January 2008

Sampling plans for inspection by attributes contain rules for passing from normal to tightened inspection. Usually only the operating characteristic curve (O.C.) will apply but in tightened inspection, lots are unlikely to remain in tightened inspection and inspection will be terminated. This means that the normal and tightened O.C. curves are boundary curves and the true O.C. curve is a composite of both. This article presents a method for calculating the composite O.C. curve and proposes three criteria to compare switching rules.
The Application of Robots to Fixed Gauge Quality Control Processes
Authors: Abdel‐Malek Layek
Published: January 2008

The use of robots to control for quality in manufacturing raises the issue of choice and its effect on the probability of accepting defective parts or rejecting good ones. The application of robots to the quality gauges is described and robot repeatability and errors in production processes are examined.
A Socio‐Technical Model for the Planning and Prediction of Communications Software Reliability
Authors: Hashim Mohammed
Published: January 2008

This article suggests a socio‐technical approach to the planning of reliable communication software by considering the various unique features that influence its reliability and performance. It proposes a realistic model for the prediction and estimation of communication software reliability with measurable parameters. The objective is to achieve the required reliability goals effectively, efficiently and economically. The model suggested employs limited test data and is based on the assumption that software malfunctions or fails owing to the manifestation of a proportion of residual faults according to a random independent process; the rate of fault manifestation is time dependent and the complexity of the software is relevant.
Sensitivity of Alpha‐Optimal Sampling Plans
Authors: von Collani Elart , Meder Klaus
Published: January 2008

The most frequently used attribute sampling plan in MIL‐STD 105 D. In cases, however, when the quality level of incoming lots is generally sufficiently good, MIL‐STD 105 D often leads to unnecessarily high sampling cost. This can be avoided by using α‐optimal sampling plans. The authors outline the α‐optimal sampling scheme along with a simple procedure to determine α‐optimal sampling plans at workshop level. These plans depend on three parameters which have to be estimated from recorded data. In this article the effects of estimation errors in these parameters are investigated.
The Influence of Cost, Function and Process Capability on Tolerance
Authors: Cheikh Abdelmadjid , McGoldrick Peter F.
Published: January 2008

Some studies concerned with the allocation of tolerances have been published, but only a few deal with both cost and function. In order to overcome this drawback, and to tighten the liaison between design and production, work has been carried out in the area of tolerance, with cost, function and process capability the main parameters in mind. Such work is discussed, where the problem covered is the manner of specifying the component tolerances of an assembly, so that the resulting functional variables of the assembly can meet their respective functional requirements, and the cost of manufacturing all the components to their respective tolerances is minimised. It shows that, when manufacturing cost information and process capability information are available, functionally correct design at minimum cost can be achieved. Furthermore, how statistical analyses of the manufacturing processes involved can lead to the relaxation in requirements, thus, promoting industrial harmony while, at the same time, maintaining the desired levels of product quality and reliability, is shown.
Monitoring, Targeting and the Use of Statistical Process Control within the Energy Profile of the Iron Founding Industry
Authors: Griffiths A.J.
Published: January 2008

The significance of energy within the manufacturing industry is identified and the relative energy costs are considered in terms of the process routes used. Energy requirements for the foundry industry are given as an example to highlight the consumption/cost relationship. The structure of energy management is presented with practical energy management experience discussed. Concepts of monitoring and targeting of energy are presented and the analysis of energy data is discussed, using SPC.
TQM in Tertiary Education
Authors: Saunders Ian W. , Walker Michael
Published: January 2008

Total Quality Management (TQM) has achieved some success as a philosophy of management in manufacturing industry. The differences between the manufacturing situation and that of tertiary education are examined to identify the similarities and differences and highlight the likely difficulties in implementing TQM in tertiary education. It is concluded that, while there are substantial differences from a manufacturing situation, where TQM has achieved its most conspicuous successes, the differences work as much in favour of the success of TQM as against it.
The Administrative Environment: An Unrecognised and Neglected Key to Greater Sustainability in Development Lending
Authors: Kearns James M.
Published: January 2008

Many Third World capital project investments lack “sustainability” — they are often successfully designed and implemented but then fail to operate well enough or long enough to realise the full intended benefits. It is argued here that the administrative environment within which such projects operate is a major determinant of their suitability. The remedy proposed is for international development finance institutions to establish special units to facilitate a creation of a supportive administrative environment.
The Nature and Effectiveness of Training for Decentralised Administrative Systems in Africa
Authors: Balogun M.J.
Published: January 2008

The factors which produced an excess of centralisation in Africa are described. The training needs arising from the new emphasis on decentralisation are then outlined. An assessment is made of current training efforts and a programme for future action offered.
The Consequences of IT for the UK Civil Service
Authors: Hyde Peter
Published: January 2008

Almost all Government Departments are currently involved in major information technology (IT) projects. All have set objectives, but the true impact on the Departments is often unclear. The different IT systems being introduced are considered, along with the issues they raise. The implications of their introduction are examined, and an assessment, of how these implications can best be managed, is made.