bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applicability of the FSEM for analyzing wire flat rolling process
Authors: Kazeminezhad M. , Karimi Taheri A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an assessment of the ability of combined finite and slab element method (FSEM) for analyzing the wire flat rolling process.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the FSEM, the effective strain field of flat rolled wire is predicted for different reductions in height and frictional conditions. The validity of the method is assessed by performing the Vickers microhardness measurements on the flattened wire cross section. Also, the creation of macroscopic shear bands in cross section of the flat rolled wire is investigated and confirmed by microhardness and metallographic examinations. Moreover, the lateral spread and width of contact area are predicted by the FSEM for different reductions in height and frictional conditions.

Findings

The FSEM and microhardness results show the minimum and the maximum effective strains at the round edge and center of the flattened wire, respectively. Also, the results show the bands of maximum effective strain at cross section of the flattened wire, i.e. macroscopic shear bands.

Practical implications

This paper can be useful in rolling industries to produce electronic parts, various springs, trolley cables, piston rings, and guide rails.

Originality/value

The paper shows the applicability of the FSEM for calculating the effective strain field and geometry of wire after wire flat rolling process.
Computation of multiple bifurcation point
Authors: Rezaiee‐Pajand M. , Vejdani‐Noghreiyan H.R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to develop a new method for finding multiple bifurcation points in structures.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief review of nonlinear analysis is presented. A powerful method (called arc‐length) for tracing nonlinear equilibrium path is described. Techniques for monitoring critical points are discussed to find the rank deficiency of the stiffness matrix. Finally, by using eigenvalue perturbation of tangent stiffness matrix, load parameter associated with multiple bifurcation points is obtained.

Findings

Since other methods of finding simple bifurcation points diverge in the neighborhood of critical points, this paper introduces a new method to find multiple bifurcation points. It should be remembered that a simple bifurcation point is a multiple bifurcation point with rank deficiency equal to one. Therefore, the method is applicable to simple critical points as well.

Practical implications

Global buckling of the structures should be considered in design. Many structures (specially symmetric space structures) have multiple bifurcation points, therefore, analyst and designer should be aware of these points and should control them (for example, by changing the geometry or other related factors) for obtaining a safe and optimum design.

Originality/value

In this paper a robust method to find multiple bifurcation points is introduced. By using this method, engineers can be aware of critical load of multiple bifurcation points to control global buckling of related structures.
Numerical modelling of spontaneous crack generation in brittle materials using the particle simulation method
Authors: Zhao Chongbin , Nishiyama T. , Murakami A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to present and use the particle simulation method to explicitly simulate the spontaneous crack initiation phenomenon in brittle materials, and to compare the particle simulation results with experimental ones on the laboratory scale.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the particle simulation method, the brittle material is simulated as an assembly of particles so that the microscopic mechanism of inter‐ and intra‐particle crack initiation can be straightforwardly considered on the microscopic scale. A laboratory test has been conducted using a gypsum sample model to validate the particle simulation method for explicitly simulating the spontaneous crack initiation phenomenon.

Findings

The paper finds that in terms of simulating the macroscopic sliding surface along or around the contact plane between a block and its foundation, both the laboratory test and the particle simulation have produced consistent results. This indicated that the particle simulation method is capable of simulating macroscopic cracks through simulating conglomerations and accumulations of microscopic crack initiation within the brittle material. Compared with other numerical methods, the particle simulation method is more suitable for explicitly and effectively simulating spontaneous crack initiation problems on the microscopic scale in brittle materials.

Originality/value

The particle simulation method can be used to explicitly and effectively simulate the spontaneous crack initiation on the microscopic scale in brittle materials. It can be also used to simulate the macroscopic sliding surface along or around the contact plane between a block and its foundation. The experimental results of simulating the spontaneous crack initiation on the laboratory scale in brittle materials are very valuable for validating the numerical simulation results obtained not only from the particle simulation method, but also from other numerical simulation methods.
An illustration of modeling moderating variables in cross‐national studies
Authors: Garcia Rosanna , Kandemir Destan
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore how moderation can and should be modeled in cross‐national/cultural contexts. A multi‐national study of consumer involvement is utilized to demonstrate proper methods for modeling the different types of moderation.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from a consumer survey regarding wine purchasing preferences conducted in Australia, New Zealand and the USA, the paper demonstrates how to identify moderators of form and of strength. A form moderator is modeled using multiplicative interactions while a strength moderator is modeled using multi‐group analyses in structural equation modeling (SEM). Differences in consumers across the three countries are examined from the results.

Findings

This study suggests that search behavior is positively influenced by involvement in New Zealand and the USA but not in Australia. It also shows that perceived risk of occasion decreases involvement in all three countries, while partial support for the positive effects of importance of tradition on involvement is found. Furthermore, “perceived risk of occasion,” identified as a moderator of form, is found to significantly moderate the relationship between importance of tradition and involvement in the US sample only. Finally, the results demonstrate significant differences across the three samples in relationships among importance of tradition, perceived risk of occasion, involvement, and search behavior, indicating that the country variable has significant moderator effects.

Originality/value

Understanding form vs strength moderation is important when evaluating multi‐national/cultural differences so that proper methodology can be utilized. This paper provides international marketing researchers with guidelines on how to model interactions and multi‐group comparisons using SEM.
Reconsidering the problem of data equivalence in international marketing research
Authors: Salzberger Thomas , Sinkovics Rudolf R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper investigates the suitability of the Rasch model for establishing data equivalence. The results based on a real data set are contrasted with findings from standard procedures based on CFA methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Sinkovics et al.'s data on technophobia was used and re‐evaluated using both classical test theory (CTT) (multiple‐group structural equations modelling) and Rasch measurement theory.

Findings

Data equivalence in particular and measurement in general cannot be addressed without reference to theory. While both procedures can be considered best practice approaches within their respective theoretical foundation of measurement, the Rasch model provides some theoretical virtues. Measurement derived from data that fit the Rasch model seems to be approximated by classical procedures reasonably well. However, the reverse is not necessarily true.

Practical implications

The more widespread application of Rasch models would lead to a stronger justification of measurement, in particular, in cross‐cultural studies but also whenever measures of individual respondents are of interest.

Originality/value

Measurement models outside the framework of CTT are still scarce exceptions in marketing research.
Researching the socio‐cultural context: putting social representations theory into action
Authors: Penz Elfriede
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at contributing to the conceptual and methodological advancement of international marketing research.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of social representations is utilized to study what the representatives of a certain culture think of objects and products; which values they associate with these, which norms they follow, and in general how they view the world.

Findings

Triangulation was employed to facilitate researchers' access to the social representations approach. Six focus group discussions were conducted combined with a free association instrument answered by a sample of 250 respondents. The empirical study began from a social constructionist perspective. Findings showed that several conceptual and functional aspects of a technological innovation (m‐commerce services) are idiosyncratic to particular groups, reflecting the group's societal affiliation and position.

Research implications/limitations

A translation problem prevails when dealing with specific words from cross‐cultural research and the similarity of concepts must be considered when translating free associations in the course of international research. Other methodologies were only conceptually presented but not empirically used. Visual approaches such as pictorial instruments or ethnographical tools should be applied in future research.

Originality/value

The results provide a solid basis for international marketing research and suggestions for expanding the current study into international marketing research are provided.
Employing information communication technologies to enhance qualitative international marketing enquiry
Authors: Loane Sharon , Bell Jim , McNaughton Rod
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Extant international marketing enquiry has been widely criticised for lacking scope and ambition. Typically, empirical investigations have involved single market studies employing quantitative methods and survey techniques. Consequently, researchers have been challenged to embrace greater methodological pluralism and broaden their geographical perspectives. This contribution posits that new information communication technologies (ICT), particularly the internet, can significantly improve the robustness of qualitative and mixed‐method international marketing research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes and evaluates the application of ICT in a recent cross‐national enquiry into rapidly internationalising small firms. Online sources were used to gather information on 218 internationalising small firms, in Australia, Canada, Ireland and New Zealand. An e‐mail instrument was then administered to verify this data and address information gaps, resulting in 143 usable responses, evenly distributed across locations. Key emerging themes were identified and a representative sub‐sample of 53 firms was selected for further in‐depth investigation via face‐to‐face interviews with CEOs.

Findings

The authors contend that such technologies can help to refine sample identification and selection procedures, improve response rates and encourage greater respondent “buy‐in” to depth interviews. They also lead to much more targeted lines of enquiry during depth interviews by identifying key research themes and issues, thus enhancing the depth and richness of the insights obtained.

Originality/value

The paper concludes that novel ICT‐enabled research approaches as described herein are particularly effective because, compared to conventional survey methods, they are more user friendly and better received by subjects.
Merck & Co. Inc.: communication lessons from the withdrawal of Vioxx
Authors: O'Rourke James S.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper examines communication strategies, organization, and tactics of the pharmaceutical firm Merck & Co., Inc., as corporate executives and staff faced the withdrawal from market of Vioxx, the company's most profitable product.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores decision methodology and criteria as Merck executives sought to communicate with their most important stakeholders during the most dangerous and critical period in the company's history.

Findings

As well prepared as Merck & Co. was for a product withdrawal, nothing could have prepared company officers for communicating on the scale, scope, and volume that this crisis would demand. The value of a well‐conceived crisis response plan is underscored, as well as a flexible, responsive organization. Among the more notable findings is that even large, well‐funded, experienced professionals may need to reconsider their organizational structure as they address a multi‐faceted, large‐scale problem. Issues include staffing, functional expertise, length of time on task, and strategic use of key resources.

Practical implications

A number of important lessons in communication strategy have emerged from the experience of withdrawing Vioxx from the market and defending the company against both litigation and continuing bad press. First, a crisis communication plan is essential. Their plan allowed Merck & Co. to identify key individuals to be involved, their roles and responsibilities. A second important lesson concerns persistence and a long‐term view, despite near‐term pressure for earnings performance. Overcoming plaintiffs‐bar litigation may take another five years. A third lesson involves identifying and measuring those issues which Merck stakeholders most needed to know in order to correct misconceptions. Finally, corporate officers recognized that they must have faith in their decisions and recognize the value of their employees (across the organization) in communicating the company's message.

Originality/value

This paper examines the pharmaceutical firm Merck & Co., Inc. and the withdrawal from market of Vioxx, the company's most profitable product.
Cultural competence in the business world: a Finnish perspective
Authors: Wilenius Markku
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The idea of the paper is to define the concept of cultural competence and to explore what is the role of cultural competence in today's world of business. The hypothesis of the project was that the interaction between business and culture is a neglected and poorly understood field of business creation. On the other hand, eminent authors like Richard Florida have recently strongly brought up the topic of creativity as a source of competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Finland is used as a case object of case study. The methods used to gather empirical material include expert interviews, workshops and Delphi‐queries. In total, over 200 experts from business, public administration and different fields of cultural production were involved in the study.

Findings

The analysis of the material showed that there are many ways in which business may take advantage of collaborating with cultural actors. First of all, there are things that involve or aim at strengthening, changing or developing the corporate image. A corporation can thus look to cultural actors for elements to develop their brand, by borrowing the actor's face or work for advertising, for example. Cooperation with cultural actors can also be justified for corporations in the form of work with interest groups, such as investors, the media, political decision makers, administration and pressure groups. Cooperation can also be a form of shouldering social responsibility, bringing important goodwill with it. A company can seek cooperation also for internal reasons: culture is used as a way of motivating staff and developing creativity.

Research limitations/implications

For the future, more concrete analysis is needed in terms of finding out what kind of results cooperation between business and cultural sphere may bring about.

Practical implications

The implication of the paper is that both businesses and cultural actors and institutions should be more open‐minded for collaboration and finding out true win‐win processes.

Originality/value

What is new in the paper is the way by which author treats the topic in the fashion that shows the possibilities how a single, rather technologically orientated country may find new prospectives for broadening its scope of international competition.
Memory loss? Corporate knowledge and radical change
Authors: Scalzo Nicholas J.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to understand the impact of radical change initiatives such as large VEROs or RIFs on the organizational memory system (OMS), specifically the tacit and explicit knowledge held by individuals.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study design was used to explore and describe OMS in a securities industry organization that experienced radical change. Interviews, document analysis, and observation followed by thematic coding and analysis using Atlas.ti® software were used to collect and analyze data. A total of 16 organizational officers, directors, managers, and specialists participated in the interviews.

Findings

Findings suggest the same OMS devices were in use before, during, and after radical change initiatives occurred. However, the degree or proportion of use of these devices changed after the change initiatives. Overall, there was some loss of knowledge, but the loss appeared to have no effect on the organization's profitability.

Research limitations/implications

Findings suggest that certain factors (industry role, nature of the work, and the configuration of work groups) may have influenced the results. Other factors were a management team strongly committed to change, protention of thinking, and continuous communication. Through activities of sense‐making, succession planning, automation, and training, the organization managed to develop and increase the use of its memory system to retain knowledge as well as generate new knowledge.

Practical implications

This research provides information for practitioners who may be helping their organizations transform through radical change and are concerned about the potential loss of information and knowledge resident in organization memory systems.

Originality/value

This case study points to some important practical lessons and actions that can serve as a blueprint for how to manage radical organizational change and preserve the tacit and explicit knowledge aspects of organizational memory.
Bouncing back: response strategies to the dotcom bust in Israel
Authors: Etgar Michael
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present and analyze the responses of high‐tech firms to the crisis of 2000‐2003 when demand declined rapidly.

Design/methodology/approach

A group of industry experts from the industry in Israel were interviewed about the practices adopted by firms as a result of the crisis. The responses were used to categorize several distinct strategic responses. The analysis was done for firms in all the three stages of high‐tech firms' lifecycle – seed, mezzanine and full production.

Findings

The article identifies three major managerial business orientations (MBO's) – financial, technological and marketing. High‐tech firms responded to the crisis by changing their MBO's from financial or technical to market oriented. Those firms in the full production stage that have embraced a market orientation before the crisis responded by adopting the more advanced strategic marketing orientation.

Research limitations/implications

This study was carried out towards the end of the crisis cycle. It is important to find out the dynamics of the reported change – whether it has been retained also after the industry started to improve from 2004 onwards. The study should be also replicated in additional countries besides the one in which it was performed.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the general knowledge about behavior of firms facing a major crisis especially in a new and fast developing industry that has not experienced such crises before. It also shows the value of marketing managerial orientation vis‐´‐vis other managerial business orientations. Managers in other industries that may face rapid crisis like change in business conditions should learn how to get ready and set up relevant defense strategies.

Originality/value

The data, approach and analysis are original to this paper. It introduces to managers, in technically‐based industries, the notion of competing managerial business orientations and points out that the prevailing emphasis on financial and technological orientation may fail in times of crisis. It concludes that such firms should adopt the marketing orientation right from their initiation because this ensures survival in times of crises. The paper should be also of value to researchers interested in studying how firms react in times of crises and in analyzing survival strategies.
Corporate governance best practices: the proof is in the process
Authors: Dalton Catherine M. , Dalton Dan R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper looks at the failure of corporate boards to incorporate best practices into their functioning.

Design/methodology/approach

The study discusses the failure of corporate boards to incorporate best practices into their functioning.

Findings

One answer to the continued failure of corporate governance, albeit not likely the answer, is a misplaced focus on structural aspects of the board of directors at the expense of process issues.

Practical implications

Provides executives with information on important factors to consider in monitoring board performance.

Originality/value

This article is of particular value to CEOs and other board members.
Strong brands and corporate brands
Authors: Kay Mark J.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to review the development of branding theory, particularly from the organizational context of building an effective corporate brand.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the literature on “strong brands” and the experience of several established brands.

Findings

The study finds that no coherent theory defines brand management tasks. Instead, paradigmatic cases of successful brands have come to define branding processes – the logic of the “strong brand” has shaped management branding practices. “Difference” and “consistency” are identified as the primary means of bringing about strong brands, yet these can be difficult to apply, particularly to corporate brands.

Originality/value

A new perspective of the social co‐production of brands as meaningful representations, each with its own logic, is proposed as a managerially useful framework to research and frame brand development tasks. Given the development of anti‐branding attacks, managers need to pay close attention to the new risks of managing corporate brands, and how they tie brands to their corporate social responsibility practices.
Internal brand building and structuration: the role of leadership
Authors: Vallaster Christine , de Chernatony Leslie
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to clarify the relationship between organisational structures and individual brand supporting behaviour. It proposes modelling the social transformation process and outlining why and how leadership is important throughout the internal brand building process. The study aims to expand the domain of corporate branding by including a broader range of human resource and leadership‐related aspects than is normally found in the branding literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using the open‐ended approach of grounded theory, including 30 depth interviews and one expert group discussion with employees representing middle and senior management having mainly a marketing and corporate communications background. The data were complemented by documentary analysis, including brand documents, descriptions of internal processes, and copies of employee magazine articles.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights about how change is brought about during internal brand building. It suggests that successful leaders act as “integrating forces” on two levels: integrating the elements of corporate identity structures, and mediating between the corporate branding structures and the individual.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalisability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the development of a powerful brand image, the development of “brand ambassadors” and for managing the balance between stability and change.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to study how brand‐supportive behaviour can be enabled.
The corporate brand association base
Authors: Uggla Henrik
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and discuss the strategic positioning of associations that can be established between a corporate brand and entities in its surrounding network such as brands, product categories, persons, places and institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A semiotic approach is used to describe image transfer processes between the corporate brand and other entities. The paper provides a structure to leverage the corporate brand in different product market contexts.

Findings

The paper offers the “corporate brand association base model” as a conceptual framework for brand‐to‐brand collaboration. The model structures how a corporate brand can develop more expansive brand architecture through transfer of image from sources of brand equity in the internal brand hierarchy and surrounding brand network.

Practical implications

A useful source for brand managers in the process of co‐positioning corporate brands and assessing risks, in relation to brands, product categories, persons and institutions. The framework will make it easier for brand managers to design strategic brand alliances.

Originality/value

The value of this study is that it has presented a model that adds depth and texture to the current academic discussion of corporate brand capitalization, by introducing a balance between in‐house leverage and external leverage of the corporate brand.
Corporate rebranding: destroying, transferring or creating brand equity?
Authors: Muzellec Laurent , Lambkin Mary
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Companies changing their brand names are frequently reported in the business press but this phenomenon has as yet received little academic attention. This paper sets out to understand the drivers of the corporate rebranding phenomenon and to analyse the impact of such strategies on corporate brand equity.

Design/methodology/ approach

A cross‐sectional sample of 166 rebranded companies provides descriptive data on the context in which rebranding occurs. Two case studies provide further detail on how the process of rebranding is managed.

Findings

The data show that a decision to rebrand is most often provoked by structural changes, particularly mergers and acquisitions, which have a fundamental effect on the corporation's identity and core strategy. They also suggest that a change in marketing aesthetics affects brand equity less than other factors such as employees' behaviour.

Research linitations/implications

The paper proposes a conceptual model to integrate various dimensions of corporate rebranding. Analysing the rebranding phenomenon by assessing the leverage of brand equity from one level of the brand hierarchy to the other constitutes an interesting route for further research.

Practical implications

Managers are reminded that corporate rebranding needs to be managed holistically and supported by all stakeholders, with particular attention given to employees' reactions.

Originality/value

This paper is of value to anybody seeking to understand the rebranding phenomenon, including academics and business managers.
The effect of corporate branding dimensions on consumers' product evaluation
Authors: Souiden Nizar , Kassim Norizan M. , Hong Heung‐Ja
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate both Western and Eastern corporate branding thoughts and examine the interrelation among four corporate branding dimensions (i.e. corporate name, image, reputation and loyalty) and their joint impact on consumers' product evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on extensive literature, a model of consumers' product evaluation that includes the major determinants of corporate branding is proposed. Based on a sample of 218 Japanese and American consumers, structural equation modeling and general linear model analyses are used to test hypotheses.

Findings

The research reveals that Japanese and American consumers have different perceptions with respect to the effect of corporate image and corporate loyalty. The corporate name was found to have a significant impact on corporate image and corporate reputation was found to have a significant affect on corporate loyalty. The corporate reputation is also found to be a mediator of the corporate image's effect on consumers' product evaluation.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that marketers should carefully consider the corporate name when designing their branding strategies. Marketers are also called on to adapt their corporate branding approaches to fit each marketing environment and enhance corporate loyalty to reduce the switching behavior of consumers.

Originality/value

The paper clarifies the interrelation among the four corporate branding dimensions and shows that consumers of different cultures do not perceive in the same way the impact of corporate branding determinants.
Seven dimensions of corporate identity
Authors: Melewar T.C. , Karaosmanoglu Elif
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper investigates what organisations perceive as the essential components of corporate identity concept and their contents. It proposes an operational definition of corporate identity on the basis of the practitioners' views.

Design/methodology/approach

The information was gathered through 32 in‐depth interviews with managers from different organisations (mainly multinational companies) and an analysis of corporate literature and web sites. The initial analysis is based on a multidisciplinary categorisation developed by the first author, which facilitated the systematic analysis of a wide range of components (e.g. corporate communication, corporate design, corporate culture etc.) associated with corporate identity.

Findings

The study shows that there is a considerable divergence in opinions concerning the fundamental components of corporate identity among practitioners. Most interviewees heavily associated identity with the areas of corporate design, communication, behaviour and strategy whereas there was no unanimous agreement as to whether or not corporate culture was a product or determinant of corporate identity.

Research limitations/implications

Developing sub‐items and their measures for each dimension presented in the proposed definition and examining the possible relationships between them might be the further step. Also additional empirical research which considers consequences of corporate identity management in relation to company performance indicators could enhance overall understanding of the concept.

Practical implications

Senior company management can use the categorisation discussed in this paper as a starting point for development of corporate identity management strategies.

Originality/value

Recategorisation of Melewar's corporate identity dimensions, which help define corporate identity concept in measurable terms.
The impact of organisational characteristics on corporate visual identity
Authors: van den Bosch Annette L.M. , Elving Wim J.L. , de Jong Menno D.T.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a research model to investigate corporate visual identity (CVI) management from an organisational perspective. It is assumed that characteristics of the organisation and of the way a CVI is managed will affect consistency of CVI.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested in a survey carried out among employees in 20 Dutch organisations. Structural equation modelling with AMOS was conducted to get insight into the various influences and relationships.

Findings

CVI management characteristics – socialisation processes related to CVI, knowledge of CVI strategy, and CVI tools and support – have a strong impact on the consistency of CVI, and organisational characteristics affect the way CVI is managed. With the exception of the openness and dynamics of an organisation, no supporting evidence was found for a direct relationship between organisational characteristics and CVI consistency.

Research limitations/implications

CVI has been measured by the judgement of the respondents, all employees of the organisation concerned. Therefore the measure was theperceivedconsistency of CVI. Further research could include a visual audit and the perception of external stakeholders towards the visual identity. There was no distinction examined among the main corporate visual identity and sub‐ or product brands. The study was conducted in the Netherlands, where the Dutch termhuisstijlis unambiguous and clearly related to the corporate brand or identity. Future research can take different brands into account or can broaden the concept of CVI (including cultural aspects, language, rituals, myths, etc.).

Practical implications

The results indicate that CVI management matters, that CVI management is related to more general organisational characteristics, but that communication managers nevertheless have a considerable amount of freedom in determining the way they manage their CVI.

Originality/value

Corporate visual identity has received little attention in research and hardly been studied at all from the perspective of this paper. This paper has value to both researchers in the fields of corporate identity and organisational identity, as well as professionals involved in managing the corporate identity.
A reflective approach to uncovering actual identity
Authors: Simcic Brønn Peggy , Engell Andreas , Martinsen Håvard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to present a case study of a unique identity‐building process employed in a Scandinavian service firm. As noted by many authors, the concept of corporate identity is probably one of today's most explored areas by both academics and practitioners. Most agree that there is neither one way to define it nor one way to measure it. Some authors suggesting it is a multiple concept further complicates it. One thing is clear; uncovering identity starts internally with individuals and the organization. This article discusses the technique used in a Norwegian collection agency, Conecto, to develop an understanding of their actual identity.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective of the case study was to find the core values of the firm defined from an employee perspective, which would then provide an anchor for the firm's future work on its identity. The methodology employed is an existential psychotherapeutic framework, combining Socratic dialogue techniques refined by previous researchers, along with the concepts of personal identity and thought experiments. The project involved the entire organization in a year‐long process to uncover past personal values that could provide a present anchor for the firm's future work on their identity, as defined from an employee perspective.

Findings

Consistency in communication is a critical factor for a successful branding strategy. Employees are critical in this process, particularly in service firms. This case study demonstrates that by engaging employees deeply in the identity process, a more solid and consistent branding platform can be built. The project initially started with internal research from a corporate branding perspective. The point was to identify the fundamental values of the organization and to make them more explicit in the firm's marketing communication, with the intent to help Conecto create a solid position in its sector. However, the project quickly developed into a much deeper process where each member of the organization participated in answering the existential question “who are we?” It evolved from a simple corporate communication task to an effort embracing different disciplines: existential philosophy, organizational psychology and culture. Summarily, the firm has identified what we refer to as a “super value” – responsibility. Another result of the process has been a redefinition of the firm's role in its business sector. By anchoring their business activities in the concept of responsibility, the firm sees itself as a mediator between its customers and the debtors. Therefore responsibility provides the foundation for “branding” strategies with all stakeholders.

Originality/value

The case study can be useful for organizations undergoing an identity process. It gives insight into the human side of the process and also the rewards that the process can provide.
The monarchy as a corporate brand
Authors: Greyser Stephen A. , Balmer John M.T. , Urde Mats
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of corporate communications on behalf of the monarchy as a corporate brand.

Design/methodology/approach

Draws on the preliminary findings of a major study on monarchies.

Findings

Argues that corporate communications is an important aspect of corporate brand management (especially in relation to constitutional monarchies).

Research implications

That monarchies are analogous to organisational brands and are amenable to being managed as such.

Originality/value

Draws on a unique study relating to monarchies as corporate brands.
Shellac‐acrylic emulsion paint for cementations surfaces
Authors: Ansari M.F. , Goswami D.N.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explore compatibility of natural resin shellac with acrylic resin in order to make a more eco‐friendly coating composition and also to open a new avenue for consumption of shellac.

Design/methodology/approach

Different compositions of paint were prepared by varying the contents of shellac and acrylic resin. Selection was made for the composition yielding the best combination of properties like water resistance, alkali resistance, washability, etc.

Findings

Modification of shellac with acrylic resin showed improved film performance. The modified product showed good adhesion, finish; the films were smooth, flexible and no flaking/detachment was observed from the surfaces. This resulted in from esterification linkages between shellac and acrylic resin.

Research limitations/implications

The concentration of shellac in the composition was limited to a certain extent. Increase in shellac content impairs the film performance of the composition, especially with regard to alkali resistance.

Practical implications

Shellac was found to be very compatible with acrylic resin at all concentrations, this may be adopted in developing other shellac‐acrylic based products.

Originality/value

The modification of shellac with acrylic resin has been done, for the first time, to open a new vista for the consumption of shellac in surface coating.
Synthesis, photochromic, thermochromic, piezochromic and solvatochromic properties of new bis‐imidazole derived from substituted chlorobenzaldehyds
Authors: Asiri Abdullah M. , Badahdah Khadija O.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the photo, thermo, piezo and solvatochromism of new bis‐imidazole derived from three isomers of chlorobenzaldehyde.

Design/methodology/approach

The synthesis of the three new bis‐imidazoles was accomplished using modified procedure of the previously reported method, by dissolving the imidazol derivative and cooling in ice bath, and adding potassium ferricyanide drop wise. The compounds were used evaluate the effects of the position of the substitutions on the aromatic ring, on the photo, thermo and piezochromic properties.

Findings

New bis‐imidazole derived from 2‐chloro, 3‐chloro and 4‐chloro phenyl have been synthesised and their photochromic properties upon irradiation with ultraviolet light were studies in different solvents. The photochromic properties and performance were affected remarkably upon changing the solvent. Also, the thermochromic properties upon heating in different solvents were studied. The dimers showed piezochromism on grinding.

Practical implications

The method reported for the synthesis is simple. The new compounds showed photochromic, thermochromic, piezochromic, and solvatochromic making them potential candidates for many applications such as sensors, optical data storage and heat sensitive materials.

Originality/value

The method for preparation was modified and improved. The materials prepared were new compounds.
Specular reflectance and derivative spectrometric studies of lac‐phenol formaldehyde resin blends
Authors: Bhatia D. , Sarkar P.C. , Alam M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate changes at molecular level in lac‐resole blends, occurring due to the effect of thermal stress at higher temperatures and different intervals of baking time.

Design/methodology/approach

Films of lac‐resole blends were applied on tin‐panels and baked at 200°C for different time intervals. The baked films were examined by specular reflectance spectroscopy, as they were otherwise difficult to examine through conventional IR techniques, using KBr pellet method. The results obtained were compared and reported.

Findings

When lac‐resole blends are baked at 200°C, in addition to possible chromic ring structures, esters linkages are formed between lac and resole molecules through cross linkages among different reactive sites of lac and PF resin. Blend of 70 per cent lac: 30 per cent resole, baked at 200°C for 20 min was found to be the best in terms of different physico‐chemical properties.

Research limitations/implications

Lac‐synthetic resin blends are structurally complex in nature. Chemical researches on such blends have been typically limited due to lack of modern tools. The present method, to determine molecular level changes in lac‐resole blends due to heating effects, using state‐of‐the‐art instrumentation and computational techniques, opens a new field for research and industry.

Practical implications

Lac and its blends retain their significance in the surface coatings and food applications, in the formulation of lacquers, varnishes and in the finishing industry. This study could have significant implication for such industries from application point of view.

Originality/value

As of now, there is no report of specular reflectance data on lac‐synthetic resin blends. This paper represents the first attempt to obtain and correlate reflectance data on such blends. It also highlights the convenience of the method and the scope of sophisticated data analysis, including derivative spectrometry.
Mechanical properties of modified epoxy: effect of chain length
Authors: Samanta B.C. , Maity T. , Dalai S. , Banthia A.K.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the mechanical properties of cured epoxy modified with amine terminated poly (ethylene glycol) benzoate (ATPEGB) along with the comparison of results with change in chain length of ATPEGB.

Design/methodology/approach

ATPEGB prepared from poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) of different molecular weights (200, 400 and 600) were used as modifiers for epoxy resin here. For effective toughening, different compositions were made by adding various concentration of each ATPEGB to epoxy. The impact, adhesive, tensile and flexural strengths of modified and unmodified epoxy were characterised and compared for each ATPEGB.

Findings

Modification of epoxy resin using each ATPEGB showed significant enhancement of mechanical strengths over unmodified epoxy. The modification caused a chemical linking between ATPEGB and resin which led not only to a phase separation but also to ensuring their intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the ATPEGB phase/resin matrix interface and this was the main cause to the improved mechanical strengths. The optimum results were obtained at 12.5 phr (parts per hundred parts of epoxy resin) concentration of each modifier.

Research limitations/implications

The modifiers, ATPEGB, used in the present context were synthesised from PEG of molecular weight 200, 400 and 600. Besides, it could be synthesised from PEG of molecular weight 4,000 and 20,000, etc. and modification of epoxy resin could also be studied effectively by using these.

Originality/value

The method for enhanced toughness of cured epoxy was novel and could find numerous applications as surface coating and adhesive onto an intricate structure.
Using framing and credibility to incorporate exercise and fitness in individuals' lifestyle
Authors: Arora Raj , Stoner Charles , Arora Alisha
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate the influence of message framing and message credibility on one's attitude and intention toward exercise and fitness activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 136 respondents participated in the study. A 2 × 2 factorial design was utilized and tested using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA).

Findings

The findings reveal the significance of source credibility for influencing both attitude and intention toward exercise and fitness activities. Additionally, the results reveal a significant impact of current lifestyle on attitude as well as intention toward exercise and fitness activities.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest the importance of carefully designed messages to reach and affect a target population whose exercise activity has been largely unaffected despite years of public pronouncements and publicity.

Practical implications

Service marketers could most effectively encourage physical activity by utilizing highly credible sources in their messages. If high credibility sources cannot be secured, positively framed messages should be used.

Originality/value

The interaction effects of message framing and source credibility have received limited research attention, particularly in the exercise and fitness context.
M‐loyalty: winning strategies for mobile carriers
Authors: Lim Heejin , Widdows Richard , Park Jungkun
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study aims to investigate determinants of satisfaction and loyalty decisions in the use of mobile services.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model was designed to identify multi‐dimensions of mobile service quality and perceived value, and investigate their influences on satisfaction and loyalty. Structural equation modeling was employed to test hypotheses.

Findings

Statistical analysis identified five distinct dimensions of mobile service quality, and their direct and indirect effects on economic value, emotional value on loyalty intention through satisfaction. Two dimensions of perceived value (i.e. economic value, emotional value) had significant influences on customer satisfaction, and then, on loyalty intention. Also, the results show interrelationship between economic and emotional value.

Originality/value

In particular, each dimension of mobile service quality appeared to have different effects on perceived economic value, emotional value, and the level of satisfaction. Accordingly, mobile service managers are recommended to develop strategic promotion efforts based on targeted consumers' needs and marketing goals.