bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges for science policy in Europe
Authors: Tendemans Peter A.J.
Published: June 2007

The political discussion on the best way for Europe to build its future on science and technology should not be confined to what will come after the 5th Framework Programme. A reappraisal of the institutional inheritance in the European area must face squarely our inability to turn Europe’s considerable assets in science and technology into a science system as effective as that of the USA or Japan. It must also face the obfuscating role of the subsidiarity principle in shaping EU versus national responsibilities, thereby preventing the rise of a truly European perspective and, incidentally, neglecting a better integration of the resources of the former Soviet area. Such a new perspective is presented. It will entail a European policy for the science base on which the European Research Councils, the European Science Foundation and the EU could start working now, a determined focus on sustainability, full acceptance of science’s place in society where the advancement of science and its uses occurs in a framework of ethical considerations, regulation and democratic debate on uncertainties. A Europe‐wide system of technology foresight and assessment would be a great boon.
Visionary management
Authors: Malaska Pentti , Holstius Karin
Published: June 2007

This article describes a futures‐oriented leadership process called visionary management as developed in the Finland Futures Research Centre and implemented successfully with several medium‐sized companies in the 1990s. It is regarded as an addition to advanced management processes aimed at making good business decisions. The aim of the process is to create new business ideas for the company in the form of a vision. The visionary process enriches the strategic management of the company by motivating key people to work jointly as a creative team for longer‐term success. It starts from finding a common understanding of the future business situation, and discovers the resources and options available to the company. It ends up with a vision, a synthesis of the common understanding of success and the will to accomplish it. Tools and approaches applied in this communication process are presented. Inside the company the vision becomes an empowering means for directing the future course of the company, and it is an effective way to communicate the aims of the company and attract external interest and support. The examples in the article represent real cases with the kind permission of the companies involved.
The power of information: transforming power structures in the new millennium
Authors: Pearson Ian
Published: June 2007

Power structures today are manifold and complex. Tomorrow’s world will be more complex still. This paper aims to explore just a few of the many future issues surrounding changes in power, the organizations and people that hold it and the ways in which it could be gained and manipulated. It identifies two parallel trends. One is that instantaneous communication, the growth of large network‐based communities, virtual companies and the attendant problem of taxation collection will strengthen globalization. The other, almost contradictory, trend is that advances in information technology and automation will allow for more emphasis on human issues and local community activities. The only guaranteed outcome in the new power structure is increased complexity.
A new framework for environmental scanning
Authors: Slaughter Richard A.
Published: June 2007

This paper suggests that environmental scanning (ES) has been restricted to parts of the external world and has largely overlooked the inner one. In fact the inner/outer distinction has itself been lost sight of within Futures Studies (FS), as in many other fields of enquiry and action. The result is that much well‐intentioned and otherwise disciplined work takes place in a cramped empiricist frame that has, for good reason, been dubbed “flatland”. For ES to more adequately comprehend a richer and more complex reality, a broader scanning frame is needed. This paper provides a model for working toward that goal.
The world in 2050: a normative scenario
Authors: Glenn Jerome C. , Gordon Theodore J.
Published: June 2007

This article presents a scenario based on the inputs of 550 futurists, scholars, business planners and policy advisers from around the world. Their views on global developments were distilled into a range of issues, opportunities and actions to address. These have been woven together into a scenario based on achieving norms by 2050 that were identified and rated by Millennium Project participants from around the world. This scenario describes how technological success, human development, and economic/political policies achieved a global economy that appears to be environmentally sustainable while providing nearly all people with the basic necessities of life and the majority with a comfortable living. The resulting social stability has created a relatively peaceful world and allowed the exploration of possible futures for the second half of the 21st century.
Future perspectives on ICTs
Authors: Ducatel Ken
Published: June 2007

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have featured strongly in all the recent national foresight studies. This paper documents some of the common trends that emerge from a comparison of these different studies and attempts to draw some strategic conclusions. The first section charts their relative importance. The main trends identified in the national foresight studies are then discussed by main technological areas in turn: software, components and peripherals, advanced telecommunications and telematics applications. Finally, the third part of the paper, strong interactions that ICTs have with other technological disciplines is considered, especially in relation to new materials, nanostructures and bioinformatics.
Power to the 21st century
Authors: Aguado‐Monsonet Miquel A.
Published: June 2007

This article reflects an analysis of the energy issues tackled in national foresight studies to date. The energy sector has not been explicitly mentioned in some of the studies but it is integrated in other sectors. What follows is a summary of the issues on which the different foresight studies are focused. The summary includes the most important topics affecting energy‐related issues for the panel of experts of each country. The article shows, first, a group of general considerations specific for each country. It then shows the types of technologies which have been considered in each foresight study. Finally, before drawing conclusions, it provides a technology table from which it is possible to see which energy technologies have been considered as important in each country.
Food for the future
Authors: Zappacosta Mario , Gomez y Paloma Sergio
Published: June 2007

This paper aims to identify the future trends in the agro‐food sector over the next two decades. Ten national technology foresight studies have been reviewed with the purpose of (i) envisaging the future socio‐economic and technology framework of the sector and (ii) highlighting major agro‐food technology clusters and their future application.
Open source: the economics of giving away stuff, and software as a political statement
Authors: Forge Simon
Published: June 2007

Looks at how software has attained incredible economic power, but recommends now is the time to break out from the current hold its creators have on the general public. Gives recommendations about “free” software (which means nothing to do with price – mostly freedom of usage), which is an “open source”. Concludes by looking at US and European information hegemony.
Not so special? merging media pluralism with competition and industrial policy
Authors: Marsden Christopher T.
Published: June 2007

How do European policymakers and media companies react to the AOL‐TimeWarner merger? In this short provocation, Marsden asks whether the successful coupling of the world’s largest ISP and media content creator signal le defi americain in communications, for Europe and the rest of the world? In particular, he questions whether market actors should be permitted a similar role in Europe. In competition policy terms, the question is whether creation of economies of scale and scope, particularly through vertical integration between carriers and content providers, now causes increasing redundancy of media‐specific ownership laws at a national level in favour of European industrial policy? The outflanking policy trend is demonstrated specifically in the merger of Vodafone‐Mannesmann, and the content alliances formed with Vivendi, and between Vodafone, Vivendi and variously BSkyB and Manchester United. Even if symbolic debate continues to give primacy to democratic principle, European public policy may switch poles, from denying concentration of media on democratic principle of pluralism of ownership, to encouraging European champions to compete with the Americans. This convergence debate will centrally occupy policymakers, with new national legislation and Commission Directives in all probability preceded by critical merger decisions by the Competition Directorate.
E‐business: is big brother watching you?
Authors: Le Goueff Stéphan
Published: June 2007

Chronicles Luxembourg authorities’ draft law on electronic commerce that indicates secrecy of correspondence may not exist in the digital world of Luxembourg. Wonders whether the “big brother” syndrome may apply, because clients do not wish to disclose that they communicate with banks.
Telecommunication privatisation: mixed progress
Authors: Noll A. Michael
Published: June 2007

Questions the effectiveness of regulation and the openness of markets in telecommunications, when government has a vested stake momentarily in a telecoms provider. Looks at various countries’ways of handling such as global alliances, and gives recommendations to safeguard sales of public property, using a Figure to give extra emphasis and explanations.
Competition in mobile telecommunications: sector growth, benefits for the incumbent and policy trends
Authors: Rossotto Carlo Maria , Kerf Michel , Rohlfs Jeffrey
Published: June 2007

Explores the impact of competition in mobile services using data on global systems for mobile communications (GSM) technology. States international experience shows that competition in any of the digital technologies brings substantial benefits to users. Sums up that increasing numbers of governments are taking specific steps to ensure that new cellular operators can compete with incumbent operators.
The evolution of US telecommunications infrastructure
Authors: McAdams Alan , Camp Jean , Divakaruni Shastri
Published: June 2007

Provides an introductory piece for a three‐day workshop (and this special issue) by the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers – United States Activities Board Committee of Communications and Information Policy (IEEE‐USA CCIP), held in Ithaca, New York, USA. Closes by stating the editors were happy to offer opportunities for reflection and debate on images of a broadband future and how that future will be shaped.
The role of optical fibre in future networks
Authors: Task Group 1 Technology
Published: June 2007

Based on work by Technology Task Group 1 (TTE‐1) for the IEEE‐USA/Cornell workshop on US telecommunications’ evolution. States the task group’s activity focused on local access Contains discussions on how fibre optics are used today and can be used in the future. Touches also on the technical and non‐technical challenges that a fibre to the home or fibre to the building network may face.
The potential for hybrid fibre coax technology
Authors: Task Group 2 Technology
Published: June 2007

Explores the development of hybrid fibre coax technology and the potential for HFC technology, in providing customers, over the next decade, with almost unlimited service options. Uses Figures to aid in explanation and concludes that the hybrid fibre coax network offers an excellent high‐speed data network solution and combines that with a high degree of scalability.
Telecommunications competition in 2010
Authors: Peha Jon M.
Published: June 2007

Discusses some views of the telecommunications sector in 2010, and some of the critical decisions that will shape it. Shows that any attempt to describe the state of competition in 2010 throughout the USA is doomed – the reality will be more complex. Concludes some parts of the USA may see a highly competitive telecommunications market emerge, allowing consumers to choose the communication services that work best for their applications.
Whose turn to play catch up? A view from the outside
Authors: Blackman Colin
Published: June 2007

Responds to two scenarios describing how the USA telecommunications infrastructure could develop over the next decade from a non‐US perspective. Insists companies in Europe are gearing up for a wireless future and the competition comes from Japan – not the USA.
1999 Review: towards a new regulatory framework
Authors: Scherer Joachim
Published: June 2007

Briefly outlines the background to the 1999 Review. Attempts to explore some of the regulatory options for the future legal framework at EU level. Examines the regulatory goals, instruments and scope of applicability of the future sector. Pinpoints some of the specific regulatory issues to be addressed with regard to mobile communications.
Why must European regulations be reviewed?
Authors: Defraigne Philippe
Published: June 2007

Identifies and outlines four categories of reasons which prompted a review of European Union telecommunications regulation and also the inputs, regulatory principles and timescale for implementation are also outlined.
Access provisions in European communications and the 1999 review
Authors: Prosperetti Luigi , Cave Martin
Published: June 2007

Evaluates the Commission’s 1999 Review, focusing on competition issues relating to access to networks. Notes the review’s revised proposals in relation to regulatory obligations imposed upon firms with significant market power. Notes the poor record of the Leased Lines Directive in controlling leased line prices. Argues that access‐pricing problems in the future are best tackled by proper enforcement of competition rules.
3G licence allocation why an auction was best for the UK
Authors: Hewitt Patricia
Published: June 2007

Argues, despite much criticism, that the recently completed auction of 3G mobile services was the best possible basis for successful and early exploitation of 3G technologies in the UK. Discuses the benefits of auctions and the argument that high licence costs will lead to high service charges. Contests whether the 3G‐auction process in the UK was a success.
Access for all? spectrum auctions in the local loop
Authors: Harrington David
Published: June 2007

Suggests an alternative approach based on a proper competitive market spectrum valuation, containing no hint of an additional tax on monopoly rents, and incorporating a comparative assessment of bidders. Emphasizes innovation does not always go hand in hand with deep pockets.
Implementing regulatory reform for telecommunications: the case of Spain
Authors: Xavier Patrick
Published: June 2007

Examines Spain’s problems in implementing regulatory reform and offers suggestions for addressing them. Hopes to be instructive to other countries embarking on regulatory reform. Concludes that other countries should concentrate on problems on implementation that they are likely to face and should be prepared for.
Teens on the telephone
Authors: Wynn Eleanor , Katz James
Published: June 2007

Analyses teen phone behaviour – regarding conversational skills among some boys with girls. Reveals some interesting household co‐ordination and parental supervision issues around the use of the telephone. Concludes that, as there is an advance in technology, more and more services will be used creatively to resolve conflict between social control and monitoring and individual identity.
The e‐business imperative
Authors: Norton Jim
Published: June 2007

Outlines the explosive growth of the commercial Internet and the meteoric rise in public attention give to e‐business, which is very important to the economy of the UK. Concludes that there are key business issues vital for e‐business strategy and not simply issues of information systems. Sums up that e‐business strategy is a vital concern for boards and not just information systems teams.
Phases in the rise of the information society
Authors: Kellerman Aharon
Published: June 2007

Proposes three phases in the emergence of an information society. Identifies these as the previously dominant industrial society, the capitalist system, the Cold War and the emerging view of culture as information. Concludes the information society consists of two major processes: production and consumption.
The “napsterization” of the European content industry: a scenario for 2005
Authors: Rapp Lucien
Published: June 2007

Considers the development of the content industry in Europe by 2005, with the anticipation of new applications such as tele‐education, tele‐medicine, tele‐detection and tele‐surveillance. Examines the interplay of the various political and industrial interests involved, using the technique of “scenario‐mapping” in particular.
The localism principle under stress
Authors: Napoli Philip M.
Published: June 2007

Recent developments in media technology have led some within the communications policy field to question traditional approaches to localism and its continued viability as a meaningful policy principle. In response to this potential turning point, this paper explores the underlying rationales for localism and examines the principle’s relevance in an era when media technologies are less restrained by geographic barriers. In terms of its underlying rationales, it is clear that the principle need not be entirely abandoned. The traditional “spatial” conceptualizations and applications of the localism principle still have relevance. If it can be expanded to account for alternative definitions of community, the principle will remain an important principle for communications policymakers and policy analysts.
Internet diffusion in the USA and China
Authors: Tan Zixiang (Alex) , Clark Theodore H.K.
Published: June 2007

Examines Internet diffusion in the major academic institutions of China and the USA, by age, gender, occupation and educational attainment. Reckons similar data from other nations is needed t support the conclusion that diffusion of the Internet into general population is faster in developed than in developing nations.
The draft cyber crime convention: creating an international law enforcement standard
Authors: le Goueff Stéphan
Published: June 2007

Looks at the rise of crime on the Internet, particularly crimes against prominent commercial Websites, which have disrupted legitimate commerce, interfered with information services and violated computer network security.
The future of online journalism: mediamorphosis or mediacide?
Authors: Calmon Alves Rosental
Published: June 2007

Looks at how the news media is making use of, and adapting to, the Web and whether any of the media has found a language that is better than traditional print. Recommends that the newspaper business has to reinvent itself right away or, in a short time, it could disappear for good.
Levering open the local loop: shaping BT for broadband competition
Authors: Sandbach Jonathan
Published: June 2007

Argues the effectiveness of regulation can be enhanced once monopoly local loop facilities are separated from the remainder of the network and services. Asserts some companies might see Telcos having to create separate “loopcos”, but believes it would maximize their commercial position in the telecommunications marketplace. Uses 2 figures to explain in full the possible and alternative structure of BT. Concludes regulations and governments have vital roles to play in the process of achieving an improved competitive framework.
Pillars of virtual enterprise: leveraging physical assets in the new economy
Authors: Steinfield Charles , de Wit Dirk , Adelaar Thomas , Bruins Arnout , Fielt Erwin , Hoefsloot Markus , Smit Alko , Bouwman Harry
Published: June 2007

Suggest hybrid e‐commerce strategies can take many forms – ranging from approaches with limited interaction between the physical and virtual entities – to where these two modes are inseparable. Investigates theoretical strengths of synergy models, presenting a series of case studies that illustrate that some companies and industries have hybrid strategies. Sums up that contrary to the former e‐commerce rhetoric, distance is not dead and geography still bears an influence on e‐commerce retail activity.
The economics of Internet TV: new riches vs. mass audiences
Authors: Waterman David
Published: June 2007

Investigates TV on the Internet, acknowledging it cannot rewrite the economic rulebook, stating it will be under great pressure to syndicate entertainment to and from other media. Concludes that, so far, Internet‐original entertainment programming shows great creative promise, but the economic challenges will not be easy to overcome.
ICT for education and development
Authors: Rodriguez Casal Carlos
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the contribution that information communication technology (ICT) can make in development and education, covering different application fields.

Design/methodology/approach

This work looks into the practical application of ICTs covering the application possibilities, the limitations and the methodological application. Information has been taken from multiple real experiences.

Findings

The paper finds that there are significant opportunities for improving the benefits of integrating ICTs within development programs. Limitations should be accepted at present while a holistic approach should be taken to consider the real local needs.

Originality/value

ICTs should be taken into account within multiple development programs as a tool to improve their efficiency. Limitations are covered in the paper, as well as recommendations about the deployment of ICT infrastructures with other development targets.
Private sector influence in the International Telecommunication Union
Authors: McCormick Patricia
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the influence of private corporations in the tripartite structure of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU): Telecommunications Standardization, Radiocommunication, and Telecommunications Development.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs institutional ethnography in conjunction with the case study.

Findings

The paper finds that, in the standardization sector, power has been effectively transferred from nation states to the private corporate sector since the approval process now enables standards to be approved by members of the study group that developed them, which is essentially the private sector. In the radiocommunication sector, the private sector continues to conduct much of the requisite technical work, but national governments are ultimately the decision makers and, further, it is difficult to distinguish between treaty and non‐treaty work. In the development sector, the ITU seeks to create an enabling environment for private investment in developing countries and actively seeks to build private sector partnerships. In the long run the ITU may be unable to satisfy either its narrow corporate constituency or the vast majority of its developing country members.

Originality/value

As the United Nations agency which coordinates satellite spacing and allocates access to the electromagnetic spectrum on an international basis, the ITU is the world's most prominent international telecommunications institution, so its structural modifications and membership changes are of great significance in a world increasingly dependent on a global grid of wired and wireless telecommunications networks. This paper sheds light on these.
The dim future of the book
Authors: Noam Eli M.
Published: June 2007

Stresses that books and reading as we know it are “old hat” and that electronic media is the newer, faster and cheaper way for creativity to go. Reckons that far from backing away we should embrace the new media in all its phases.
A borderless world: the OECD Ottawa Ministerial Conference and initiatives in electronic commerce
Authors: Ypsilanti Dimitri
Published: June 2007

Reviews issues discussed at the Ottawa OECD Multinational Conference of 1998, including government roles and other, aligned areas. States electronic commerce has potential far‐reaching economic implications. Concludes future work needs to be done to facilitate e‐commerce’s successful development.
Deep impact: the Web and the changing media economy
Authors: Schiller Dan
Published: June 2007

Espouses the Web with regard to the media and all its areas of relevance. Encourages and supports multinational forms of production as new but admits they may be no more sympathetic to social need and democratic practice than previous commercial media. Charts the market and the Web’s changes for commercial business.
Convergence: navigating bottlenecks in digital pay‐TV
Authors: Cowie Campbell , Marsden Christopher T.
Published: June 2007

Examines abuse potential with regard to digital pay‐TV services and permitted competition which is allowed, and these are referred to as bottleneck facilities (technology). Looks at technical analysis ad bottleneck control in addition to self‐regulation and industry standard settings, and further discusses public policy concern. Concludes that it may be cautionable to pursue narrower objectives in the communications industry – especially where other declarations of public policy are feasible.
Visions of sugarplums: can everyone gain profit from GMPCS?
Authors: Wright David
Published: June 2007

Looks at initiatives in global liberalizations for satellite services, particularly at national and regional levels. Highlights GMPCS legislation with regard to The Philippines, South Africa, India, Canada, Australia and a member state of Europe. Further investigates licence fees and who to licence plus conditions harmony and other relevant areas.
The billy goats gruff: a fairy tail for the third anniversary of the 1996 telecommunications act
Authors: Roycroft Trevor R.
Published: June 2007

Chronicles a series of errors in the Telecommunications Act by using a “fairy tale” scenario to aid in explanation of this US 1996 procedure. Addresses local market jurisdiction and dual cost standards. Concludes many of the Act’s goals remain largely unfulfilled as local exchange customers will not see the benefits the Act was hoped to deliver, until technology allows better delivery.
Convergence and the World Trade Organization
Authors: Bhatnagar Pradip
Published: June 2007

Examines the impact of convergence on the various rules and agreements, administered by the WTO and vice versa. Concludes there is need to review provisions of some rules administered by the WTO to enable the multilateral trading system to deal adequately with convergence, and to ensure benefits are spread wide enough. Recommends the WTO should encourage policy reforms leading to widespread and efficient communications.
Telecom demonopolization: why did India get it so wrong?
Authors: Chowdary T.H.
Published: June 2007

Discusses India’s bungling of telecom reform (demonopolization) and answers the question of how India got it wrong, and what to do in the future to put it right. Looks at how the early (1855) Indian Telegraph Act governs telecommunications and the problems this had led to. Elaborates on the new information technology policy of 1998 giving full and complete explanations, using a Table for added emphasis.
Telcos take over the world?
Authors: Curwen Peter
Published: June 2007

Examines data demonstrating how the telecoms industry is affected by takeovers, mergers and stake acquisition. Catalogues the ability of companies to use cash instead of stock in all the highest capitalized companies. Explains happenings, reasons and long‐term consequences for the global economy with regard to industrial restructuring, as it appears telecoms companies are taking the world over.
The road ahead: towards third generation mobile telecommunications
Authors: Gruber Harald , Hoenicke Marion
Published: June 2007

Unravels the main points of the mobile telecoms industry that are likeliest to change, discussing prospects for diffusion of third generation technology. Illustrates the main factors likely to change in the mobile telecoms industry in the next few years and looks at its evolution. Uses figures to aid in explanation and concludes that predictions of how the industry will proceed are difficult to make at the present time.
Good governance in the age of cyberspace
Authors: Grewlich Klaus W.
Published: June 2007

Argues a common framework is needed to help e‐commerce stakeholders implement high quality governance in the emerging global information society. Considers essentials for good governance that revolve around sovereignty, regulation of markets, safeguarding access and competition and various other related areas.
Employment in the information age: information technology and information work
Authors: Martin Stana B.
Published: June 2007

Examines information work changes in relation to investment in IT, from 1970‐1995. States IT’s tend to render routine information handling occupations redundant while simultaneously contributing to growth in non‐routine handling of information. Employs an appendix giving information occupations as types of information work, with 6 different categories. Argues wide‐scale investment in It’s contributes to slowing employment growth but this requires more monitoring.
Mining and mapping web content
Authors: Paltridge Sam
Published: June 2007

Provides brief overviews of new interactive tools and indicators surrounding content analysis on the web, focusing on those windows and tools that are publicly accessible on the web. Contends emerging Internet indicators need to be further analysed if they are to be applied usefully in assisting the building of strategies. Finishes with a Table showing the structure of different domains mapped by AltaVista.
The quest for information highways and media convergence in Canada
Authors: Winseck Dwayne
Published: June 2007

Studies media convergence in Canada, arguing it has always been a possibility as change is not a consequence of new technologies but a shift from efforts to prevent cross‐media combinations, to initiatives that promote this aim. Sums up that media reconvergence and the information highway are at the top of the communications policy agenda, but how it will involve is unclear.
User protection in cyberspace: some recommendations
Authors: Louveaux Sophie , Poulett Yves , Salaün Anne
Published: June 2007

Makes recommendations for protecting users in cyberspace, which relate to commercial communications, relationships between the service provider and consumers, and data protection. Concludes that initiatives involving trust and confidence are a means of developing confidence in electronic commerce.
Business process approach towards an inter‐organizational enterprise system
Authors: Vathanophas Vichita
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To review an existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) literature and provide the inter‐organizational practice of ERP system.

Design/methodology/approach

A focus group (FG) method was adopted as an exploratory means to gain insights and perspective of ERP systems.

Findings

The study suggests researchers re‐examine the following ERP issues at the inter‐organizational level, namely: selection of ERP packages, integration of business processes, knowledge and applications, implementation approaches, training as well as organizational transformation and software migration.

Originality/value

The study examined the different ERP lifecycle phases and provided the insight factors that were crucial to overall success in implementing ERP. In addition, the empirical findings would be useful to ERP practitioners by providing better understanding of ERP from both the user and organizational perspectives. Regarding the FG methodology, practitioners can use FG at the beginning of ERP projects to gather customer needs and organizational information, which can facilitate better business and IS planning.
Clinical governance in primary care: from blind‐eye to no‐blame culture in one short leap?
Authors: van Zwanenberg Tim
Published: June 2007

Recent changes in the National Health Service in the UK have included a drive towards better quality health care through enhanced professional regulation, clinical governance and lifelong learning. It has been stated that the successful adoption of programmes of clinical governance is dependent on the right culture prevailing within the NHS. Progress and problems in the implementation of clinical governance to date are discussed.
Putting governance into research and development
Authors: Clough Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

Looks at the importance of research and development in clinical decision making, stating that research is the first building block in this process. Examines the Department of Health’s Research Governance Framework and how this can be used in the National Health Service. States that an implementation plan will be pubished shortly which will prioritise areas for early compliance.
Research governance and the fate of research
Authors: Earl‐Slater Alan
Published: June 2007

Looks at evidence of the fate of medical research and provides a template for gauging the value of money spent. Provides key issues and learning points which need consideration in order to improve research skills and capabilities. Offers evidence that could be used to improve research governance in health care. Gives learning points for those sponsoring, hosting or managing research and for others becoming involved in research. Concludes that understanding past practices should help in improving those which are current.
Blog searching
Authors: Thelwall Mike
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate how blog searching can be used as a retrospective source of public opinion.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper a variety of blog searching techniques are described and illustrated with a case study of the Danish cartoons affair.

Findings

A time series analysis of related blog postings suggests that the Danish cartoons issue attracted little attention in the English‐speaking world for four months after the initial publication of the cartoons, exploding only after the simultaneous start of diplomatic sanctions and a commercial boycott.

Research limitations/implications

Blogs only reveal the opinions of bloggers, and blog analysis is language‐specific. Sections of the world and the population of individual countries that do not have access to the internet will not be adequately represented in blogspace. Moreover, bloggers are self‐selected and probably not representative of internet users.

Originality/value

The existence of blog search engines now allows researchers to search blogspace for posts relating to any given debate, seeking either the opinions of blogging pundits or casual mentions in personal journals. It is possible to use blogs to examine topics before they first attract mass media attention, as well as to dissect ongoing discussions. This gives a retrospective source of public opinion that is unique to blog search engines.
The Galician virtual library
Authors: Places Ángeles S. , Brisaboa Nieves R. , Fariña Antonio , Luaces Miguel R. , Paramá José R. , Penabad Miguel R.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This study aims to present the digital library Galician virtual library (BVG, for “Biblioteca Virtual Galega”) in Galician.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows the objectives pursued by the BVG, its development, putting special emphasis on the main technological challenges, and presents some data about its usage.

Findings

A digital library can be used to stimulate a lesser‐used language and to promote the culture and tourism of a region.

Originality/value

The paper shows how a digital library can be used to strengthen the Galician language, which is currently categorised as a “Lesser Used Language” in the European Community and to contribute to the preservation and spreading of Galician culture and literary works, either from current authors or from previous documents. It also provides a digital publishing house for new authors and opens a communication channel between current authors and their readers. Finally, it helps to connect a scattered community like the Galician, offering a centralised access point to any information about Galicia. This work also presents some technological innovations included in the BVG, especially from the viewpoint of user interface design and search by content.
A scholarly semantic web system for advanced search functions
Authors: Tho Q.T. , Fong A.C.M. , Hui S.C.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The semantic web gives meaning to information so that humans and computers can work together better. Ontology is used to represent knowledge on the semantic web. Web services have been introduced to make the knowledge conveyed by the ontology on the semantic web accessible across different applications. This paper seeks to present the use of these latest advances in the context of a scholarly semantic web (or SSWeb) system, which can support advanced search functions such as expert finding and trend detection in addition to basic functions such as document and author search as well as document and author clustering search.

Design/methodology/approach

A distributed architecture of the proposed SSWeb is described, as well as semantic web services that support scholarly information retrieval on the SSWeb.

Findings

Initial experimental results indicate that the proposed method is effective.

Research limitations/implications

The work reported is experimental in nature. More work is needed, but early results are encouraging and the authors wish to make their work known to the research community by publishing this paper so that further progress can be made in this area of research.

Originality/value

The work is presented in the context of scholarly document retrieval, but it could also be adapted to other types of documents, such as medical records, machine‐fault records and legal documents. This is because the basic principles are the same.
Current state of IT usage by Australian subcontractors
Authors: Ng S. Thomas , Eng Chen Swee , McGeorge Denny , Lam Ka‐Chi , Evans Simon
Published: June 2007

The fragmented and highly competitive nature of the construction industry (CI) limits efficiencies and inhibits communication. However, through the effective use of information technology (IT), these communication barriers between clients, consultants, suppliers, subcontractors and contractors can be broken down. Public sector clients in Australia have proposed an IT implementation strategy with the aim of improving communication and increasing productivity in the CI. However, IT is relatively new to the industry and so are the problems associated with it especially for the small subcontractors. The aims of this paper are to examine the current usage of IT by Australian subcontractors, and to identify the potential problems for subcontractors in IT implementation. The results indicate that the uptake of email and the internet by subcontractors is at a low level and the awareness of IT training and education is very low. The indications are that Australian subcontractors are not yet ready for the implementation of even rudimentary IT technology.
A fuzzy sets model for construction dispute evaluation
Authors: Cheung Sai‐On , Ng S. Thomas , Lam Ka‐Chi , Sin Wing‐Sang
Published: June 2007

Unresolved construction dispute can be detrimental to project success. A systematic method to evaluate the seriousness of construction dispute of a construction project will assist management to take appropriate corrective actions. Evaluation of construction disputes requires an analysis on both the likelihood of occurrence and its impact, which are normally expressed by practitioners in linguistic terms. The application of classical discrete analysis will not be able to accommodate the fuzzy nature of this information. To determine how fuzzy sets theory can be applied to construction disputes evaluation (CDE), a fuzzy CDE model has been developed based on the knowledge extracted from practitioners in Hong Kong. The fuzzy CDE system consists of four components: dispute identification, dispute analysis; dispute evaluation; and dispute control. This paper describes the framework and operation of the fuzzy CDE system developed. The results indicate that CDE can be modelled by the fuzzy sets theory.
Utilizing the balanced scorecard for IT/IS performance evaluation in construction
Authors: Stewart Rodney A. , Mohamed Sherif
Published: June 2007

Leading organizations do not stop at the gathering and analysis of performance data; rather, these organizations use performance measurement to stimulate improvement efforts and successfully translate strategy into action. In other words, they use performance measurement for managing their organizations. The most commonly used performance evaluation tool, the balanced scorecard (BSC) has been used extensively in the manufacturing, government, banking, retail, insurance and financial services sectors. This paper looks at potential applications and benefits of using the BSC as a framework to evaluate the performance improvement resulting from IT/IS implementation by a construction organization. The paper firstly seeks to adapt the original BSC concept to construction and then attempts to develop a performance measurement framework in the form of a tiered “Construct IT” BSC. The developed framework allows for the measurement of IT/IS performance at three different decision‐making tiers (i.e., project, business unit and enterprise tiers). At each tier, a group of performance indicators are used to describe key aspects of activities that occur frequently enough to warrant meaningful measurement and comparison. The proposed framework applies the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and multi‐attribute utility theory (MAUT) to facilitate aggregating the obtained diverse performance measurements, thus giving rise to an overall IT/IS performance improvement measure (score) at each decision‐making tier. To illustrate the application of the proposed framework, a project tier example is provided.
Achieving a responsive industrial relations environment for construction industry workers: a project alliancing case study
Authors: Walker D.H.T. , Peters R.J. , Hampson K.D. , Thompson M.J.
Published: June 2007

This paper outlines how the project agreement operating on the Australian National Museum project in Canberra, Australia facilitated a responsible and responsive workplace environment for construction workers. A project alliancing approach was adopted and designed to encourage industrial relations innovation in the workplace. The trigger for this approach was the perceived success of the alliancing working arrangements between key project delivery teams and a desire to extend this arrangement to subcontractors, suppliers and the workforce. Changes in the Australian workplace relations environment and introduction of a national code of practice for the Australian construction industry provided impetus for reaching a new type of workplace agreement. The workplace culture and characteristics of relationships formed between workers and management on that site shaped the agreed terms and conditions of work. It also spurred the pursuit of innovative approaches to project delivery from a technology, management and workplace culture perspective.
An Internet‐based electronic product catalogue of construction materials
Authors: Kong S.C.W. , Li H. , Shen L.Y.
Published: June 2007

As the potential of the Internet is gradually realized and its importance progressively recognized, waves of companies are now trying to utilize this new means of commerce by conducting business online and offering their products for cyber‐exchanges. Suppliers in the construction industry, coming to understand the advantages of e‐commerce, have also begun putting their product catalogues online. However, before suppliers can truly benefit from e‐commerce, a comprehensive and user‐friendly electronic product catalogue must be developed so that buyers can easily navigate through e‐markets to find what they need. This paper attempts to review problems of existing electronic product catalogues on construction material websites and presents an electronic product catalogue designed to facilitate easy searching, comparing and evaluating of construction materials.
An on‐line glossary as a way to foster the construction of a common culture among urban experts, stakeholders and decision‐makers
Authors: Teller Jacques
Published: June 2007

Negotiation and public participation are a key aspect of present urban development projects. Argumentation support tools, based on the Toulmin logic, have often been presented as a way to increase the accountability of the debates between the different urban actors. It should still be assumed that any collaborative decision making requires some common culture to make the dialogue possible and constructive. Such a common understanding of basic terms, references and methods is often missing in present‐day urban disputes, especially when complex issues such as cultural heritage are at stake. The present paper discusses the relevancy of web glossaries as a way to build up such a common culture among urban experts, stakeholders and decision makers.
Enthusiasm, commitment and project alliancing: an Australian experience
Authors: Walker D.H.T.
Published: June 2007

Team leaders require enthusiasm and commitment from their team members to enable them to be agile, adaptable and responsive. This paper uses results from a longitudinal study of a successful building construction project delivered using a project alliancing approach. Results presented use a model pioneered by the US academic Peter Senge. This helps explain the system dynamics that generated the necessary enthusiasm and commitment to support collaboration and co‐operation within and between project teams. It became clear that enthusiasm and commitment can be achieved on construction projects provided that a collaborative and co‐operative workplace environment is carefully nurtured and crafted, which not only supports drivers for enthusiasm and commitment, but also addresses barriers that inhibit those values. Experience gained from studying the exemplar project illustrated in this paper provides the basis for a model of how to create and maintain the necessary workplace environment.
Knowledge management in the architecture, engineering and construction industry
Authors: Kamara J.M. , Augenbroe G. , Anumba C.J. , Carrillo P.M.
Published: June 2007

Knowledge management (KM) is now recognized as a core business concern and intellectual assets play a vital role in gaining competitive advantage. Within the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, where the need for innovation and improved business performance requires the effective deployment and utilization of project knowledge, the need for strategic knowledge management is also being acknowledged. This paper reviews various initiatives for KM in order to assess the extent to which it is being implemented in the AEC sector. Contextual issues are identi. ed, and the findings from two research projects are used to assess current strategies for KM in AEC firms. These studies show that effective knowledge management requires a combination of both mechanistic and organic approaches in an integrated approach that incorporates both technological and organizational/cultural issues. The paper concludes with recommendations on how this could be achieved in practice.