bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globalization of small islands: the case of Curaçao
Authors: Goede Miguel
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of Curaçao as a small island coping with globalization and to contribute to the development of a framework to discuss globalization and corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper starts to integrate three scenarios: globalization, the paradigmatic approach of corporate governance, and the categorization of organizations. This framework is then applied to the case of Curaçao.

Findings

Globalization of Curaçao involves the introduction of the Anglo‐American model of governance into several actors. This is a major change that the society finds difficult adapting to. A significant part of the population is at risk of being excluded.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a multi‐paradigm approach to corporate governance, and in analyzing the globalization of small islands.
The shielding of CEO cash compensation from post‐acquisition earnings' charges
Authors: Dorata Nina T.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether CEO compensation is shielded from the negative effects of restructuring charges and asset impairments following the acquisition of the controlling interest in the stock of another corporation.

Design/methodology/approach

Regression tests using CEO cash compensation as the dependent variable, and restructuring charges, goodwill impairments, and other asset impairments associated with a target firm as independent test and control variables.

Findings

The results indicate that CEO cash compensation is increased when an acquiring firm with respect to the target firm records restructuring charges. Goodwill impairments have no effect on CEO cash compensation.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to the extent that it only considers CEO cash compensation. A future area of research is to examine the association of total CEO compensation and post‐acquisition earnings” charges. Shareholders encourage CEOs to proceed with synergistic restructuring following a merger/acquisition by increasing their compensation.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by concluding that compensation committees consider the contextual nature of earnings” charges and the CEO's direct responsibility for the transaction in the determination of CEO compensation.
Earnings quality following corporate acquisitions
Authors: Barragato Charles A. , Markelevich Ariel
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to examine earnings quality during the post‐acquisition period.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper defines earnings quality as an earnings stream more closely associated with future cash flows from operations. It uses the stock market's reaction at the acquisition announcement to infer merger motives and hypothesize that synergy‐motivated acquisitions will produce higher quality earnings than agency‐motivated acquisitions.

Findings

The paper finds that synergy‐motivated acquisitions produce higher quality earnings than agency‐motivated acquisitions.

Research limitations/implications (if applicable)

The findings are consistent with this prediction and support the view that managers who pursue synergy or agency‐motivated acquisitions do not face the same economic environment and incentive schemes. The results are also consistent with the notion that incentives for earnings management are greater following agency‐motivated acquisitions when compared to those of synergy‐motivated acquisitions. The authors conjecture that these differences originate from those accounting‐based contracts that are likely impacted by reported post‐acquisition balance sheet and income statement amounts.

Practical implications

The findings of the paper show that the motive for the acquisition has lasting effect, several years post acquisition on the quality of earnings produced by the merged entity; thus furnishing additional importance to identifying the motive for the acquisition.

Originality/value

The paper uses the corporate acquisition setting to examine earnings quality during the post‐acquisition period. This paper should be relevant for researchers studying either the quality of earnings or corporate acquisitions.
Why “soft science” is the key to regaining leadership in marketing knowledge
Authors: Tapp Alan , Hughes Tim
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight what the authors regard as serious problems with the continuing dominance of a “hard science” view of what constitutes “top quality” research, and to present evidence that a “softer” approach will yield work that more closely aligns with the everyday reality of marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a contrast between the marketing discipline and chemistry to illustrate their concerns about the use of “hard science” in academic marketing. This was supplemented with analyses of academic marketing work already published to illustrate particular points.

Findings

The authors propose that academic marketers need to take a “horses for courses” approach and ground their research in the reality of the discipline. Different areas within the discipline of marketing are debated, and it is concluded that some areas may still respond well to scientific approaches, while others may benefit from a relaxation into interpretive approaches. The paper argues the need to concentrate more on reflecting a reality that is recognised by the wider marketing community, rather than getting wound up in methodological strait‐jackets. To illustrate these points, the lack of recent progress in research on market segmentation is considered, and a “typical hard science paper” is critiqued. The authors summarise the reasons why it is wrong to apply a “hard science” approach on a carte blanche basis and argue for a more pluralist critical realist approach.

Practical implications

The contention is that the over‐heavy trappings of science in much academic work have the effect of removing that work from practical norms. Therefore the practical implications of this paper are potentially significant.

Originality/value

The paper promotes the soft science stance as the most appropriate epistemology for mainstream academic marketing research.
Top versus leading journals in marketing: some challenging thoughts
Authors: Svensson Göran , Wood Greg
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to discuss some criteria in order to distinguish between top versus leading journals in marketing. The aim is to stimulate the debate of the adequacy of those issues that dominate in the top marketing journals.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors discuss three groups of criteria, namely journal, article, and research. Each is discussed based on a set of dimensions: journal criteria – the editor, the editorial board, the editorial objective and the author affiliations; article criteria – research implication, practice implication, readability and originality; and research criteria – process, paradigm, representation, readership and contribution.

Findings

While the top journals in marketing are named, the analysis is meant to be of a more general nature rather than to question or lambaste a specific journal.

Research limitations/implications

There is an underlying quest for identifying and verifying the top academic journals in different research disciplines. As an extension to the discussion of top versus non‐top journals, the authors raise another crucial issue, namely criteria to differentiate between top and leading journals in marketing.

Practical implications

These criteria are based on the authors' examination of the editorial descriptions and overall contents of six top journals in marketing. The criteria are also derived from a review of the literature on academic journals and academic publishing.

Originality/value

The discussion may stimulate and widen debate with respect to what constitutes a leading academic journal in marketing. The suggested list of criteria should be seen as a trigger for further discussion. It does not aspire to be complete, but a complement to the ongoing discussion of academic journals and academic publishing in marketing.
Marketing to postmodern consumers: introducing the internet chameleon
Authors: Simmons Geoff
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, to provide an overview of postmodern marketing in the consumer context, integrating the relevant literature around two contrary arguments. Second, it seeks to reveal the potential of the internet as a marketing tool that can address the complexities inherent in postmodern consumer markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a general review.

Findings

This paper reveals that complexity reigns supreme in the postmodern marketing consumer context, with postmodern consumers seeking both individualistic and communal brand experiences. Within this complexity, the paper identifies the internet as an enabling tool, which allows direct, real‐time individualised interaction with postmodern consumers. Further, the internet's ability to provide these consumers with the opportunity to express this individuality within homogeneous groups is also presented.

Practical implications

This paper reveals how the internet can allow an individualised one‐to‐one connection with postmodern consumers to a level unparalleled offline. Correspondingly, the paper also reveals how the internet is precipitating significant new opportunities for marketers to engage in and create enticing experiences for postmodern consumers, who crave the ability to appropriate consumption and brands as a means of individualised self‐expression within homogeneous groups.

Originality/value

This paper provides a contemporary and original overview of the opportunities proffered to marketers by the internet, in dealing with the inherent complexities erupting from within consumer markets in the postmodern era.
Satisfaction in performing arts: the role of value?
Authors: Hume Margee , Sullivan Mort Gillian
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to report on the structure and relationships between value and satisfaction in a cultural performing arts setting to identify the structure of satisfaction in the performing arts context.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines customer attitudes to value, show experience quality and peripheral service quality in a high arts setting by using a questionnaire. The pool of questions used the most recent scale measures for constructs in the area of services, in particular experiential services. The data are tested using AMOS 5.0 structural equation modelling.

Findings

This paper reports that value mediates the relationship of show experience quality and peripheral service quality to satisfaction and the direct link of these pathways to satisfaction was not significant. This research supports the notion that customers determine service satisfaction based on attribute performance of the show and peripheral service aspects, and derive value from this.

Practical implications

This research informs cultural organisation managers of the importance of delivering high levels of service quality and show experience in order to offer a value for money experience. This paper identifies the importance of understanding the heterogeneous and complex nature of customer‐derived value.

Originality/value

This paper examines a service sector that receives little attention. Cultural organisations operate as non‐profit organisations and are accountable for scarce fund allocation. Government support has decreased and corporate sponsorship is scarce and competitive. This paper offers assistance to organisations in the quest to balance the economic issues and constraints by creating value and satisfaction and balancing service quality and show delivery.
The role of ethnic affiliation in consumer ethnocentrism
Authors: Vida Irena , Dmitrović Tanja , Obadia Claude
Published: April 2008

Purpose

In view of the increasingly dynamic ethnic composition of nation states in Europe and elsewhere, this paper aims to examine the effects of ethnic affiliation on ethnocentrism and domestic purchase bias, and to test a model of consumer ethnocentrism antecedents and outcomes in a multi‐ethnic transitional economy.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were collected via personal interviews from 580 urban consumers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which was, in the aftermath of violent ethnic conflicts in the Balkans, divided into two major sub‐regions inhabited by three clearly identifiable ethnic groups. A structural model with five first‐order reflective constructs was evaluated to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The findings confirm that both national identity and nationalism are significant predictors of consumer ethnocentrism, and that ethnic affiliation has a direct effect on both consumer ethnocentrism and on domestic purchase bias. However, the antecedent nature of cultural openness in relation to consumer ethnocentrism was not confirmed.

Practical implications

While it has been suggested previously that, when consumers have dual allegiances, the construct of national identity may be of a lesser explanatory power, the results attest to the value of both nation‐state level constructs in the model as reliable predictors of consumer ethnocentrism. The findings also suggest that a differentiated marketing strategy may be warranted on entering multi‐ethnic markets.

Originality/value

Unlike most prior studies that tested ethnocentrism models across different countries with citizens of each country being addressed as a culturally/ethnically uniform group, this study does not limit in‐groups to a nation state, but examines groups based on ethnic affiliation.
Experiences as gifts: from process to model
Authors: Clarke Jackie
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the giving and receiving of gifts that are experiences rather than physical goods, and to illuminate how the behavioural processes in the selection, exchange and consumption of such intangible gifts might differ from the generic understanding of gift giving.

Design/methodology/approach

A trio of qualitative research methods – depth interviews, self‐completion written instrument, and semi‐structured telephone interviews – captured donor, recipient and industry expert perspectives, yielding a total of 189 real life incidents of experience gift exchange.

Findings

The model of experience gift‐giving behaviour encapsulates the behaviour of donors and recipients with sufficient flexibility to incorporate purchased, modified and donor‐created experiences, differing donor decision‐making styles, and immediate or delayed consumption. It is structured around the process stages of decision making, exchange, and post‐exchange/consumption/post‐consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical evidence is drawn from the UK, and is biased towards close personal relationships and experience gifts of higher monetary value.

Practical implications

Consumers in Western societies are actively giving gifts that are experiences. Greater understanding of their behaviour in this marketplace – as evidenced in the paper – will enhance marketing practice for those service organisations recognising the gift potential of their products.

Originality/value

This research is believed to be the first to examine the phenomenon of experiences as gifts – a theoretical contribution that starts to close the gap between real world consumer behaviour and corresponding academic knowledge.
Online marketing communication potential
Authors: Bach Jensen Morten
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper seeks to indicate where resources should be directed to utilize online marketing communication (OMC) further, including the identification of the diversity of OMC adoption, prioritization and future potential.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model of prioritization and potential of OMC, specified as a structural equation model is developed. Research data are collected from both Danish advertising agencies and major companies, and based on these data the model is estimated by using partial least squares (PLS).

Findings

The adoption of OMC by companies, as opposed to advertising agencies, is rather diverse. Companies should take responsibility for the holistic utilization of OMC, as well as the development of holistic prioritization methods. Special attention should be given to online relationship communication, as this discipline is the primary driver of confidence in future potential, and online interactive communication, which has the largest potential for improvement.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on a single geographic market (Denmark), and its transferability to other markets can be questioned. The geographical constraint also means that the sample is limited.

Originality/value

The paper presents original findings for online marketing communication planning and prioritization, and thereby adds to a green field that lacks both theory and practical recommendations.
Can performance‐related learning outcomes have standards?
Authors: Brockmann Michaela , Clarke Linda , Winch Christopher
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the distinction between educational standards and learning outcomes and to indicate the problems that potentially arise when a learning outcomes approach is applied to a qualification meta‐framework like the European Qualification Framework, or indeed to national qualification frameworks.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods used are documentary, political and conceptual analysis, with some reference to empirical work carried out in relation to other projects.

Findings

It is found that there are substantial differences between learning outcomes and standards with large educational and political implications. Furthermore, the “pure” form of learning outcomes approach contains a design flaw, which makes its coherent implementation problematic.

Research limitations/implications

The stimulation of further research on learning outcomes based approaches to qualifications and the problems that arise in their implementation.

Practical implications

The EU needs to think carefully about the fitness for purpose of the current descriptors for EQF and whether or not it is desirable to move away from a pure outcome‐based approach to qualification frameworks and meta‐frameworks.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware, this is the first paper to draw attention to this distinction.
European qualifications framework
Authors: Bouder Annie
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to question the appropriateness of a proposal for a new European Qualifications Framework. The framework has three perspectives: historical; analytical; and national.

Design/methodology/approach

The approaches are diverse since the first insists on the institutional and decision‐making processes at European level questioning the impact that could have on the recently formalised Open Method of Coordination. The second goes into more detailed analyses of the instrument itself and of its shortcomings both in conceptual terms and on its pragmatic ones. The last approach is a comparative one by which the French system is “benchmarked” against EQF guidelines.

Findings

The main conclusion is that there is obviously a political will to question the role and the structure of qualifications in view of an economy and a society of knowledge and that research has much to contribute – on very different levels – like the three chosen for this article.

Research limitations/implications

Choosing to mix three quite different approaches in one short text is an attempt to be valued since it shows the different aspects under which a so‐called “neutral” instrument needs to be regarded.

Practical implications

Practically, this speaks for the further involvement of research in the present, very institutional and organisational discussions on European qualifications.

Originality/value

In terms of research, it is seldom that these various levels are considered together. The article proves that there is a case to do so.
Professional competence as a benchmark for a European space of vocational education and training
Authors: Grollmann Philipp
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper's aim is to present a critical review of the current European process of co‐operation in VET with a special view to the European Qualification Framework and its competence orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach reviews the official documentation and the consultation process and a contrastive analysis of the state of the art of research and developments in VET.

Findings

In order to make European VET a direct contribution to the revised Lisbon agenda, a more concise shared vision with regard to the processes and structures of vocational education might be needed.

Research limitations/implications

It does not seem possible logically and pragmatically to fully abstract from the processes in which competence is acquired and in which it is going to be used.

Practical implications

Research and development activities in the European Union should be integrated towards an agenda that covers structures, conditions and processes of learning for the world of work.

Originality/value

Apart from a few other contributions, critical accounts of current policies and its implications for research and practice are scarce.
Putting Dreyfus into action: the European credit transfer system
Authors: Markowitsch Jörg , Luomi‐Messerer Karin , Becker Matthias , Spöttl Georg
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to look closely at the development of a European Credit Transfer System for Vocational Education and Training (ECVET). The European Commission, together with the member States, are working on it and several pilot projects have been initiated within the Leonardo da Vinci Programme of the European Commission. The problem of the transfer as well as a convincing transparency of vocational competences has yet been developed. The aim is to discuss this in the article.

Design/methodology/approach

This contribution illustrates a model using the Dreyfus/Dreyfus approach of acquisition of profiles in such a way that the levels of competence development are not applied to overall professional actions (as shown for pilots, nurses, teachers and others), but to smaller entities of professional profiles.

Findings

While strongly taking into account work related tasks and contexts (objects, tools, work organisation) the authors define “groups of competencies” and apply Dreyfus' ladder to these new entities. That means the authors adopt Dreyfus' model in two ways: by applying the model to groups of competencies (corresponding to specific core work profiles) instead of using it for overall competency profiles (corresponding to professionals/ experts); and they make the model flexible and dynamic by not restricting it to a certain number of levels, but only defining the differences between levels.

Research/limitations/implications

The background of the paper is the so‐called work process analysis to identify the work related tasks and related groups of competencies.

Practical implications

The article offers a new concept for the European discussion of the Qualification Framework as well as the Credit Transfer System.

Originality/value

This article provides an alternative to existing European policy.
Evaluating progress of European vocational education and training systems: indicators in education
Authors: Lauterbach Uwe
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The quality of an education system or a comparative international assessment refers more and more to quantitative parameters, i.e. “educational indicators”. The paper aims to analyse the structure of several educational indicators and indicator systems and answer the question “What can educational indicators achieve?”

Design/methodology/approach

Starting with a general consideration of the term “indicator” the findings are applied to the educational area and the development of educational indicators is analysed critically.

Findings

Indicators allow for the illustration of outcomes and of system processes. Beginning in the 1950s, following the empirical turn in research methods, and the growing significance of approaches from economics of education, indicators are now applied in national and international settings. The findings show that the combination of the quantitative and qualitative approach is more successful as the isolated research.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on secondary analysis. A combination of quantitative and qualitative research methodology should be undertaken in following the progress of educational systems.

Originality/value

The findings of quantitative research based on educational indicators determine the general public and political discussion and often the discourse in the scientific community. The analysis shows that a critical distance especially when preparing political decisions is a necessary attitude.
Effective virtual new product development teams: an integrated framework
Authors: Badrinarayanan Vishag , Arnett Dennis B.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Research on virtual teams is still in its nascent stages. The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretically grounded integrative framework of key factors influencing the effectiveness of virtual new product development teams.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework is developed by integrating perspectives from several research streams, including relationship marketing, new product development, knowledge management, the resource‐based view, virtual teams, innovation, and communication.

Findings

Factors impacting effective virtual interactions (i.e. improved decision quality and decision speed) and new product development (i.e. increased levels of creativity, innovativeness, and product development speed) are proposed.

Research limitations/implications

Guidance is provided for managing virtual new product development teams. The paper offers testable propositions that can serve as a foundation for further research in this promising area.

Originality/value

By synthesizing relevant perspectives from diverse literature streams, the paper offers a new framework for understanding and improving the functioning of virtual new product development teams.
Successful B2B customer database management
Authors: Zahay Debra
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to present a study of the question of customer information management in business‐to‐business (B2B) firms, what distinguishes firms that manage customer information well, and what internal processes are necessary for success.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes the themes from several research studies using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Findings

The study finds that companies that distinguish themselves from others in the area of customer information management practices pay attention first to their company's overall strategy, establish and/or enforce data quality standards, involve functional departments in the development of customer databases and their applications, and use both relational and transactional data in their data applications.

Practical implications

Managers in this area would do well to follow the precepts suggested in this work, especially in terms of developing quality databases before embarking on a customer marketing strategy.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is the consistent themes throughout research studies in various B2B contexts.
Costs and funding of New Zealand local authorities: the role of democratic discourse
Authors: Barrett Jonathan , Scott Colin
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate how two New Zealand local authorities have engaged with their duty under the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act) to foster community participation in decision making, specifically with regard to costs and funding of local authority activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A “middle‐range” methodological approach was used which sought to flesh out a skeleton of theory with empirical data to demonstrate the richness of particular contexts. The basic premise was that Habermasian theory provides both a guide to engagement with local, democratic participation and also idealised goals for local authorities under the Act.

Findings

The local authorities investigated have taken significant steps to engage with community participation in local authority costs and funding decisions. However, lack of speech competence in the “language of accounting” precludes many community members from participating in informed dialogue on relevant issues. One authority sought to overcome this barrier by way of public meetings; the other by encouraging representative interest groups.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings are not generalisable but are relevant to other organizations similar to those observed.

Practical implications

Broad community participation in local authority cost and funding decision‐making is hampered by the language of accounting. Accountants could do more to accommodate different constituencies for accounting information.

Originality/value

The article highlights two appropriate and practicable approaches the local authorities observed have adopted to foster democratic participation in local decision making. These efforts, but also the remaining problems, are relevant to a broad range of organisations seeking to include different community interest groups in decision making.
The formation of public‐public partnerships
Authors: Greasley Kay , Watson Paul J. , Patel Shilpa
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This article aims to explore public‐public partnership issues arising when public sector organisations work together in order to deliver a new government sponsored initiative.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted for this study, employing in‐depth interviews across four UK case study sites. The rich qualitative data gathered from these interviews is analysed utilising a thematic framework.

Findings

The findings indicate that most of the participants did not feel that they were involved in a partnership and had little or no contact with their partner. The key role of inter‐personal relationships amongst individual members is emphasised.

Research limitations/implications

The findings presented represent the pilot sites utilised in a government sponsored initiative. As future public‐public partnerships develop, further research should be undertaken to explore this phenomenon and establish the generalisability of these findings.

Practical implications

The study indicates that while there are clear benefits of partnership working, achieving successful collaboration is not straightforward. Improvements need to be made to develop partnerships using both formal and informal communication methods.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the importance of the relationships between, and perceptions of, personnel at an individual level in the success of public‐public partnerships.
Agents of change in the disability field: bridge‐builders who make a difference
Authors: Hamner Doris , Cohen Hall Allison , Ciulla Timmons Jaimie , Boeltzig Heike , Fesko Sheila
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to highlight the systemic conditions that facilitate the emergence, longevity, and effectiveness of bridge‐builders across organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers conducted longitudinal case studies in six One‐Stop Career Centers across the USA over four years. Interviews were conducted with approximately 20 people in various positions at each of the sites visited. The data analyzed spanned the four years of the study.

Findings

Researchers uncovered particular characteristics present in individual bridge‐builders that enabled them to accomplish their goals. This research indicates that, when the right conditions intersected with the right type of person, champions emerged who helped move the organization in new and innovative directions.

Originality/value

This paper provides an outline of the organizational change that can happen in the disability field. By delineating bridge‐builders and the context in which they operate, others can identify the conditions within organizations to help them move forward.
An organization called Harry
Authors: Aarum Andersen Jon
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics to gods, plants, animals or inanimate objects (the wind, rocks, etc.). This paper sets out to disprove the association of anthropomorphic characteristics with individual organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses anthropomorphism in organization theory because many scholars argue that organizations are human or like human beings. Some examples of “An organization called Harry” in organization literature are presented.

Findings

Three causes of anthropomorphism can be traced. The negative, rather than any positive, consequences of anthropomorphism in organization literature are discussed.

Originality/value

A new agenda for organizational studies is suggested where anthropomorphism is avoided together with the fallacy of the human metaphor. Anthropomorphism creates confusion rather than advancing the field of organization theory.
Reliability test and failure analysis of high‐density packages assembled with a low‐temperature lead‐free solder (SnBiAg)
Authors: Lau John , Gleason Jerry , Schroeder Valeska , Henshall Gregory , Dauksher Walter , Sullivan Bob
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The High Density Packaging Users Group Consortium has conducted a study of process development and solder‐joint reliability of high‐density packages on printed circuit boards (PCB) using a low‐melting temperature lead‐free solder. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reliability tests (e.g. temperature cycling and shock and vibration) and failure analysis (FA) of high‐density packages on PCB with the low‐melting temperature lead‐free solder (Sn‐57 wt%Bi‐1 wt%Ag).

Design/methodology/approach

The design for reliability, materials, and assembly process aspects of the project have been discussed in “Design, materials, and assembly process of high‐density packages with a low‐temperature lead‐free solder (SnBiAg)” also published in this journal issue. In this study, reliability tests (e.g. temperature cycling and shock and vibration) and FA of high‐density packages on PCB with the low‐melting temperature lead‐free solder (Sn‐57 wt%Bi‐1 wt%Ag) are investigated.

Findings

Lead‐free solder‐joint reliability of high‐density packages, such as the PBGA388, PBGA256, PBGA208, PBGA196, PBGA172, PQFP80, and TSSOP56 were determined by temperature cycling, shock, and vibration tests. Temperature cycling test data for over 8,100 cycles between 0 and 100°C in a 44 min. cycle were statistically analyzed. Shock and vibration test data based on the HP Standard Class Bi‐II Products SPEC have also been reported.

Originality/value

Currently there is a lack of experimental and simulation data and field experience in respect of one of the critical issues for industry – that of solder joint reliability in lead‐free soldering. The paper contains some important research results and recommendations.
Reliability study of surface mount printed circuit board assemblies with lead‐free solder joints
Authors: Lo Jeffery C.C. , Jia B.F. , Liu Z. , Zhu J. , Ricky Lee S.W.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the lead‐free solder joint reliability of a variety of surface mount components assembled onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) under a number of different tests.

Design/methodology/approach

Lead‐free solder with a composition of Sn96.5‐Ag3.0‐Cu0.5 was used in a surface mount reflow process. Different types of surface mount dummy components with a daisy chain, such as CBGAs, BGAs, PLCCs, CSPs, and QFNs, were assembled onto PCBs. Both the mechanical and thermo‐mechanical reliability of the solder joints were evaluated by several tests. The experiments included package shear, package pull, three‐point bending and accelerated thermal cycling testing for 2,000 cycles. The packages were examined by X‐ray and C‐SAM before the reliability tests were carried out. The maximum load and the corresponding load‐displacement curve were recorded in the mechanical test.

Findings

The results from the mechanical tests show the major failure mode is on the copper pad. Weibull analysis shows that the characteristic lives of most packages are between 1,100 and 2,400 cycles. For the CBGA, the characteristic life of 96 cycles is relatively short, due to the serious CTE mismatch. Cross‐section inspection shows failures occur at the solder joint. Copper pad failure is also observed.

Originality/value

This paper provides both the mechanical and thermal‐mechanical reliability of lead‐free solder joints. The experimental data are very useful in the lead‐free SMT industries.
Global supply chain risk management strategies
Authors: Manuj Ila , Mentzer John T.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Global supply chains are more risky than domestic supply chains due to numerous links interconnecting a wide network of firms. These links are prone to disruptions, bankruptcies, breakdowns, macroeconomic and political changes, and disasters leading to higher risks and making risk management difficult. The purpose of this paper is to explore the phenomenon of risk management and risk management strategies in global supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on an extensive literature review and a qualitative study comprising 14 in‐depth interviews and a focus group meeting with senior supply chain executives.

Findings

The study provides insights into the applicability of six risk management strategies with respect to environmental conditions and the role of three moderators.

Research limitations/implications

The model is developed in a global manufacturing supply chain context. It should be tested in other contexts and with other methods to provide generalizability. The study takes a much needed step toward building a theory of risk management in global supply chains, which opens important future research directions.

Practical implications

This research provides direction to managers for choosing risk management strategies based on the global supply chain environment. Moderators have practical implications for global supply chain managers.

Originality/value

The paper addresses an identified gap in the literature for selecting risk management strategies in global supply chains. It employs grounded theory, a methodology appropriate for theory‐building, to explore a phenomenon with an inadequate theoretical base.
How procurement managers view low cost countries and geographies
Authors: Carter Joseph R. , Maltz Arnold , Yan Tingting , Maltz Elliot
Published: April 2008

Purpose

There is good evidence that the shift in global sourcing is toward so‐called “low cost country suppliers.” Yet conditions in these countries are often not well‐known. At the same time, best practices in integrated supply dictate a multi‐faceted decision, rather than basing supplier location on a single attribute say, labor cost alone. With these issues in mind, a research project was formulated with two primary objectives. First, the authors wanted to compile the knowledge and perceptions of purchasing managers regarding low cost regions and their capabilities and to reflect the multiple factors involved in current sourcing strategies and supplier selection decisions in these low cost geographies. Second, the authors wanted to compare managers' subjective perceptions with objective data regarding attributes of sourcing locations to identify the relationship between perceptions and reality. This paper aims to explore the issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors surveyed over 100 sourcing professionals on their perceptions of various low cost sourcing alternatives. Perceptual mapping techniques were used to combine the rankings on some 12 different attributes to visualize how the various attributes relate to each other and how the low cost regions compare when rated against sourcing managers' ideal perceptions.

Findings

The research results show that procurement managers select regions for low cost sourcing based on both specific measures and individual and/or group perceptions of the region, whether these perceptions are correct or not. This paper probes these perceptions. Also the paper compares these subjective perceptions with objective data to show that cultural stereotypes may bias managers' perception of location‐specific characteristics. The paper closes with implications for procurement managers and opportunities for further research.

Practical implications

The authors have demonstrated that purchasing managers choose sourcing locations using multiple criteria instead of only focusing on cost. But some perceptions are biased by cultural stereotypes and do not reflect reality. This suggests that managers have to be careful when using their subjective judgment in choosing sourcing locations.

Originality/value

The authors believe that visual representations of alternative sourcing options have great potential to improve the efficiency of cross‐disciplinary and multi‐company teams that are increasingly responsible for global sourcing strategies. Comparing managers' perception with objective data of location attributes shows that mangers' perception may be biased by cultural stereotypes.
Hidden effects of variable order review intervals in inventory control
Authors: Waller Matthew A. , Williams Brent D. , Eroglu Cuneyt
Published: April 2008

Purpose

Whereas inventory theory traditionally assumes the periodic review inventory model (R, T), with an order‐up‐to level R, has a random demand and lead time coupled with a deterministic review interval T, firms often deviate from a strict adherence to a fixed review interval when they attempt to capture transportation scale efficiencies. Employing this policy introduces additional supply chain variability. This paper aims to provide an expression for the standard deviation of demand during the protection period, important in setting safety stock, as well as an expression for the amount of order variance amplification induced by a stochastic review interval.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical modeling is used to develop the expression for the standard deviation of demand during the protection period as well as the calculation for the amount of order variance amplification induced by a stochastic review interval.

Findings

In terms of the variance of demand over the protection period, a stochastic review interval has a similar effect to that of a stochastic lead time, but its impact on demand variance amplification within the supply chain differs fundamentally. Specifically, a stochastic review interval creates an order batching bullwhip effect not identified in existing literature.

Research limitations/implications

This study offers an expression for the standard deviation of demand during the protection period when stochastic review intervals are employed. The expression can be used to more effectively set safety stock. The paper also offers an expression for the order variance amplification induced by a stochastic review interval.

Practical implications

The study offers suggestions for retailers and suppliers regarding when the use of a stochastic review interval is effective in terms of cost efficiencies.

Originality/value

While the existence and effect of lead time variability is well‐established in the literature, traditional approaches the periodic review inventory model ignore the stochastic nature of review interval. This paper highlights the use of stochastic review intervals as a contributing factor to the bullwhip effect.
Foundations for building share of heart in global brands
Authors: Pitta Dennis A. , Franzak Frank J.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the relationship between global brands and the emotional connections between consumers and the brand.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper integrates concepts including a range of recently published (1995‐2006) theoretical works in the branding, global branding, and share of heart literature.

Findings

The paper provides information and action approaches to marketers to aid them in managing the emotional ties of global brands to specific market segments. The term “global brand” is used extensively in business but its nature and scope are not understood by all. Global brands are few in number and must satisfy several criteria to be considered truly global. This study explores the requirements for global branding as well as the characteristics and advantages of global brands. Brands may be considered in two dimensions based on their acceptance by consumers. One dimension is the brand's deliverable benefits relevant to its target segment. The other is the type and depth of emotional connection between the consumer and the brand. The article reviews the state of global branding and types of emotional connections. It then postulates a series of actions to build share of heart to aid in taking brands global.

Research limitations/implications

The theoretical concepts that form the foundation of the paper appear to have a significant application to consumer marketing but have not been tested empirically.

Practical implications

The paper explores a global phenomenon that has implications for the nature and scope of market segmentation, product design and promotion.

Originality/value

The paper describes the nature and application of emotional connections to particular brands. While most literature has concentrated on local or national brands, the paper provides a perspective that may help to understand how global brands generate emotional ties to consumers.
Alternative measures of satisfaction in cross‐cultural settings
Authors: Ross Robert H. , Allen Broyles S. , Leingpibul Thaweephan
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to develop and test a model that enables examination of the cross‐cultural comparative influence of the meets expectations versus feeling state perspectives of consumer satisfaction for a product or brand.

Design/methodology/approach

New measures were developed for the meets expectations and feeling state constructs, leading to a survey that was administered to Chinese and Americans. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling in order to test hypotheses that were developed from the extant literature.

Findings

The study found that meets expectations and feeling state are two distinct separate constructs with Americans and Chinese, and that their influence on future purchase intent differs between cultures, and between brands.

Research limitations/implications

Only two brands were used in the study. The survey was completed with university students in the USA and China versus a broader range of age groups. The dissimilar nuances of English and Chinese may lead to different understandings of the measurement items.

Practical implications

This study provides a foundation for future cross‐cultural consumer research, and provides empirical insights into the ongoing standardization versus localization marketing strategy debate.

Originality/value

This study is a benchmark comparative cross‐cultural consumer satisfaction study with vastly disparate American and Chinese consumers.