bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting decision making in risk management through an evidence‐based information systems project risk checklist
Authors: Zhou Lihong , Vasconcelos Ana , Nunes Miguel
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to present a study of Information Systems project risk management aimed at identifying a risk ontology and checklist that will enable decision making and mitigation strategy planning in information system (IS) development in the public sector. This sector is an ideal research field in risk management practices, due to the visibility that failure of IS/IT projects has acquired as a consequence of the duty of accountability that characterises it.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a qualitative approach anchored on a critical literature review, leading to the development of an analytical framework, followed by a thorough case‐study survey.

Findings

A project risk ontology was derived from the analysis of ten case‐studies in the UK, USA and New Zealand and was divided into five main categories: pre‐project, customer, project management, technological issues, and development methodology. The analysis found that a considerable number of risk factors are incurred before the start of the formal project and pre‐determine the future of the project and create predictable risks that can be avoided.

Research limitations/implications

This paper has focused on the pre‐implementation and implementation phases of IT/IS projects and further research into IS post‐implementation is required.

Originality/value

The proposed ontology is designed to fit in real life systems development cycles and is aimed at supporting risk assessment and control. The findings suggest that risk thinking should start early in the project and not, as many modern design and development methodologies propose, solely as part of the development process itself.
Management versus security specialists: an empirical study on security related perceptions
Authors: Mouratidis H. , Jahankhani H. , Nkhoma M.Z.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the rationale that governs implementation of information systems and network security expenditures through a case study approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method took the form of a mixed‐method assessment of the perceptions of persons of authority in the management and the network security areas of an organization that has implemented network security protocols. Two stages of the research process were completed in order to gather the necessary data for the study. The first stage of the study was the administration of a Likert‐type questionnaire in which respondents answered 30 unique items on network security. In the second phase of the study, a number of responders were contacted to further expand upon the themes presented in the Likert‐type questionnaire.

Findings

Empirical evidence gathered justifies theoretical claims that personnel from general management have different perspectives towards network security than personnel from the network security management. In particular, the study indicates that such differences are demonstrated on a number of areas such as the effectiveness and the efficiency of the networked system; control of network security; security‐related decision‐making processes; and users of the network. The latter being the most controversial issue with one side indicating that users should be allowed to use the network in an efficient manner, and the other side emphasizing that users pose one of the greatest security risks to the system.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the study are found in its focus on a specific company and on its perception‐centred nature of risk and risk analysis. No two persons identify and frame risk in an identical manner. This creates potential conflict of interest when the participants within a risk assessment process approach the issues and present their arguments as to how to best identify and respond to risks.

Practical implications

Through comparing and contrasting the perspectives of the two sample populations, the research assists in demonstrating how, why, and to what extent specific problems are recognized by those within management and those within network security. This allowed the analysis of how these problems are defined and what steps can be taken that would help to reduce or eliminate its impact in the organization used in our case study.

Originality/value

It has been argued in the literature that there is lack of empirically based research to explore and effectively analyze the perceptions held by management and by security specialists within organizations with respect to security. This paper presents the results of the application of a novel two‐stage framework on an empirical case study focused on a large national bank. The work allowed the identification of the various perceptions held by management and by security specialists, and the degree to which these perceptions are similar.
User profiles in organizational environments
Authors: Teixeira Claudio , Sousa Pinto Joaquim , Arnaldo Martins Joaquim
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to describe a project to provide an online web portal that can be used as a front‐end for all university users – students, teachers, staff – and services, library, administration, e‐learning, and e‐mail.

Design/methodology/approach

The profile model proposed is mainly inheritable, defined by profile components with transactional templates, security rules and layout templates. This approach is being tested on a campus prototype portal. The prototype is an underway project in development at our university.

Findings

This paper explains that, even though different from the overall approaches, the basic profile and the profile management system proposed are solid alternatives when addressing personalization of organization users.

Originality/value

This new approach explains how user modelling applications can be integrated into any organization without the cost of reengineering the entire information system already in place.
Information technology governance, funding and structure
Authors: Azizi Ismail Noor
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The paper's purpose is to investigate the issues of IT governance, funding and structure of a public university in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a case study approach, i.e. a series of interviews with users and information services provider of campus information system.

Findings

The university lacks a common approach to decision making or forum for making comprehensive assessments of IT planning and funding strategy. The campus information system was developed in an uncoordinated manner, reflecting interests of different departmental units, and a decision support system is almost non‐existent. A new IT planning structure with clear roles and responsibilities is proposed to overcome existing barriers to effective campus information system.

Originality/value

This is the first study to investigate the issue of IT governance, funding and structure in Malaysian universities using a case study approach.
Comparison of TAPS packages for engineering
Authors: Manjit Sidhu S.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to present the development of technology‐assisted problem solving (TAPS) packages at University Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN). The project is the further work of the development of interactive multimedia based packages targeted for students having problems in understanding the subject of engineering mechanics dynamics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study TAPS packages are compared with other selected engineering computer packages.

Findings

The differences found were indicative of better presentation and clarity, step‐by‐step approach to solve engineering problems, user‐friendly environment, unbiased assessment of performance and flexibility to incorporate 3‐D geometric models in the TAPS packages.

Originality/value

This paper provides a brief account of the differences between the TAPS packages approach used in this research with that of commercial simulation packages accompanying the engineering mechanics dynamics textbook and will be of interest to those in the field of engineering.
Evaluation of ICT literacy differences in trainee student teachers from the view of sexuality
Authors: Moradi Rekabdarkolaei Saeid , Amuei Fattane
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to evaluate ICT literacy differences in trainee student teachers from the view of sexuality.

Design/methodology/approach

In the research, sender differences in self‐reported ICT experience and ICT literacy among first year graduate trainee teachers were investigated. The questionnaires were made available in two forms: printed and online. Also, dynamic model of ICT literacy was employed. Three main components of aspiring teachers' ICT literacy were covered: present general problem‐solving and technical ICT capabilities; situational and longitudinal sustainability; and transferability of ICT capabilities into future professional domain.

Findings

Results show no significant differences were found between females' and males' previous experience with ICT. However, males on average worked with computers significantly more hours per week than females. Significant differences between males' and females' technical ICT capabilities and situational and longitudinal sustainability were observed. Males' scores were higher. In the regression analysis, when the impact of the background and ICT experience variables was controlled, gender failed to be a significant predictor of the sustainability scores. However, it remained a significant predictor of some trainee teachers' scores, related to their technical ICT capabilities.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the literature on the evaluation of ICT literacy differences in trainee student teachers from the view of sexuality and will be of interest to those in the field.
The effectiveness of online customer relations tools
Authors: Fink Lior , Zeevi Aviv , Te'eni Dov
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the differences in how customers and organizations perceive online customer relations (OCR) tools – the online communication tools at the interface between organizations and customers – and how the different perceptions affect the implementation, use, and effectiveness of these tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model is tested empirically in three separate studies that explore the organizations' perspective of OCR tools, the customers' perspective of OCR tools, and the actual implementation and use of these tools.

Findings

The findings in this paper vary across the six OCR tools examined. The findings for the “contact form” suggest that the misalignment in the perspectives of organizations and customers can drive less effective online relationships. Conversely, the findings for the “order‐tracking system” illustrate the potential of the alternative situation, when the attitudes of organizations and customers are aligned.

Practical implications

This paper identifies two potential barriers to effective OCRs: misalignment between the attitudes of organizations and customers, and inconsistency between attitude and behavior on the part of organizations. The findings suggest ways for organizations to improve the effectiveness of their online strategy.

Originality/value

The research model emphasizes the implementation and use of tools that support relationships rather than commercial transactions, and assumes the availability of a portfolio of OCR tools rather than concentrating on an individual tool. This study contributes by developing and testing a research model that includes the distinct perceptions and behaviors of both organizations and customers.
Predicting online channel use for an online and print magazine: a case study
Authors: Srisuwan Paweena , Barnes Stuart J.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test a conceptual model to predict the determinants of online channel use in a multi‐channel environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of a free, multi‐channel entertainment magazine is used to statistically analyse a proposed model of customers' channel use (n=224) using an online survey of real consumers.

Findings

The findings in the paper confirm a number of determinants of consumer attitudes. Subjective norms and consumer attitudes positively affect behavioural intention to use and intentions directly relate to actual use. The results also indicate that three constructs (i.e. enjoyment, marketing efforts and age), one from each three main determinant groups (i.e. marketing variables, individual difference variables and channel attributes), are likely to be an accurate predictor of consumer attitudes.

Practical implications

The paper shows that enjoyment was an important factor among the younger, socially aware and somewhat hedonistically‐oriented consumers of the magazine. Firms should track consumer preferences from registration and then should try to create activities that give consumers enjoyment. Linking together of marketing efforts is very important. Advertising can be a great opportunity to grow online operations. Search engines and the use of incentives (prizes) can be useful in this regard. Firms should also advertise their web site through the offline channel or any places that can reach target consumers. A good mix of offline and online advertising can present a message and reinforce it for consumers in different channels.

Originality/value

This paper contributes towards understanding consumer behaviour in the online channel use context in a multi‐channel environment.
Towards an understanding of the behavioral intention to use online news services
Authors: Howard Chen Yen‐Hao , Corkindale David
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Research into the use/adoption of online news services (ONSs) is still in its infancy, Scholars have indicated that there is no comprehensive theoretical framework for understanding or predicting consumers' online adoption behavior. The purpose of the paper is to propose a theoretical framework as a foundation for better understanding and further analyzing the adoption of ONSs.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted together with a series of in‐depth interviews with selected key industry experts. Three paradigms (i.e. the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, the Uses and Gratifications Theory) were examined and included findings from research into some aspects of online behaviour and these are discussed in relation to the objectives of this paper.

Findings

Six factors are identified as potential key drivers in the adoption of ONSs These are based on the findings from the literature review and the in‐depth interviews with the industry experts. The six factors are: Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Core Service Quality (PCSQ), Perceived Supplementary Service Quality (PSSQ), Trust, Networking, Interface and Subjective Norm. A theoretical framework for better understanding and analyzing the adoption of ONSs is built that shows the relationship among these factors and adoption of ONSs.

Originality/value

For researchers, this paper provides a framework to identify and understand the way the potential key factors contribute to the adoption of online news services. For practitioners, this framework lists the features that specifically attract online news users. Understanding users' preferences is of major importance in e‐businesses for making strategic decisions to increase user satisfaction, as well as improving the performance of the business.
Customer satisfaction factors of mobile commerce in Korea
Authors: Choi Jeewon , Seol Hyeonjoo , Lee Sungjoo , Cho Hyunmyung , Park Yongtae
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to distinguish features of m‐commerce from those of e‐commerce and identify factors to influence customer satisfaction (m‐satisfaction) and loyalty (m‐loyalty) in m‐commerce by empirically‐based case study.

Design/methodology/approach

First, based on previous literature, the paper builds sets of customer satisfaction factors for both e‐commerce and m‐commerce. Second, features of m‐commerce are identified by comparing it with current e‐commerce through decision tree (DT). Third, with the derived factors from DT, significant factors and relationships among the factors, m‐satisfaction and m‐loyalty are examined by m‐satisfaction model employing structural equation model.

Findings

The paper finds that m‐commerce is partially similar in factors like “transaction process” and “customization” which lead customer satisfaction after connecting an m‐commerce site, but it has unique aspects of “content reliability”, “availability”, and “perceived price level of mobile Internet (m‐Internet)” which build customer's intention to the m‐commerce site. Through the m‐satisfaction model, “content reliability”, and “transaction process” are proven to be significantly influential factors to m‐satisfaction and m‐loyalty.

Research implications/limitations

The paper can be a meaningful step to provide empirical analysis and evaluation based on questionnaire survey targeting actual users. The research is based on a case study on digital music transaction, which is indicative, rather than general.

Practical implications

The paper meets the needs to focus on customer under the fiercer competition in Korean m‐commerce market. It can guide those who want to initiate, move or broaden their business to m‐commerce from e‐commerce.

Originality/value

The paper develops a revised ACSI model to identify individual critical factors and the degree of effect.
The field researcher as author‐writer
Authors: Baxter Jane , Fong Chua Wai
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the literary authority of qualitative management accounting field research (QMAFR) and its interconnectedness with the scientific authority of this form of research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a non‐positivist perspective on the writing/authoring of QMAFR. The paper illustrates its arguments by analysing how the field is written/authored in two well‐known examples of qualitative management accounting research, using Golden‐Biddle and Locke's framework as a way of initiating an understanding of how field research attains its “convincingness”.

Findings

The paper finds that these two examples of QMAFR attain their convincingness by authoring a strong sense of authenticity and plausibility, adopting writing strategies that signal the authority of the researcher and their figuration of the “facts”.

Research limitations/implications

The paper argues for a more aesthetically informed consideration of the “goodness” of non‐positivist QMAFR, arguing that its scientific and aesthetic forms of authority are ultimately intertwined.

Practical implications

This paper has practical implications for informing the ways in which QMAFR is read and written, arguing for greater experimentation in terms of its narration.

Originality/value

The value of this paper lies in its recognition of the authorial and aesthetic nature of QMAFR, as well as it potential to encourage debate, reflection and changed practices within the community of scholars interested in this form of research.
Designing and conducting online interviews to investigate interesting consumer phenomena
Authors: Gruber Thorsten , Szmigin Isabelle , Reppel Alexander E. , Voss Roediger
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to thoroughly explain how qualitative researchers can design and conduct online interviews to investigate interesting consumer phenomena.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi‐standardized qualitative technique called laddering was applied successfully to an online environment. Laddering allows researchers to reach deeper levels of reality and to reveal the reasons behind the reasons. A web survey that included an opinion leadership scale filled in by 2,472 people served as a springboard for identifying possible participants for the online laddering interviews. In total, 22 online interviews were conducted with opinion leaders in the specific product field of digital music players such as Apple's iPod.

Findings

Conducting online interviews enabled information to be gathered from an interesting group of respondents that would have been difficult to contact otherwise. The whole online interviewing process was convenient for respondents who did not have to leave their homes and offices for the interviews. In general, respondents enjoyed the online laddering interviewing experience and in particular the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The most valued attributes of Apple's iPod are “control elements” and “design”, which are linked to values such as hedonism and individuality.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to systematically describe how qualitative researchers can conduct laddering interviews online. By explaining the online interviewing process in detail, the authors dispel criticism that qualitative research reports are often unclear, ambiguous and unstructured. Based on the detailed description of the online laddering process, other researchers can use the technique to get deeper insights into interesting consumer phenomena.
Regulating online advertising: the benefit of qualitative insights
Authors: Harker Debra
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the regulatory options available to control advertising on the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical framework for this study was derived from Harker and colleagues' work on effective advertising self‐regulation (ASR). The key areas of the legal regulatory framework, the self‐regulatory framework, prevailing community standards, and industry compliance were examined in the context of the internet; the focus being the achievement of acceptable advertising. Dick's convergent interviewing techniques were utilised during a number of depth interviews with key stakeholders and the data were analysed using Strauss' and Strauss and Corbin's guidelines.

Findings

This qualitative approach allowed great insight to be gained in a “messy” area. A number of regulatory options are suggested, ranging along a continuum from full control to no control. Whilst controlling advertising on traditional media is moving towards best practice, the dynamic context of the internet provides new challenges for all stakeholders in terms of consumer protection.

Research limitations/implications

A significant limitation of any research concerned with the internet relates to the currency of information, and this is difficult to account for in this dynamic environment.

Originality/value

Whilst there have been many research papers describing approaches to traditional ASR, there is little to guide us when it comes to options for controlling online advertising. This paper has attempted to push the research boundary a little further in this regard and is meant to be a paper that will hopefully stimulate other research colleagues to challenge ideas and the traditional view.
Tasting as a projective technique
Authors: Pettigrew Simone , Charters Stephen
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the benefits of tasting as a projective technique (PT) in explicating consumers' thoughts and feelings towards food and beverage products.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, ten focus groups were conducted with 35 consumers, 14 wine producers, and 13 mediators. The mediator category included those involved in marketing, wholesaling, retailing, and judging wine. Participants in each focus group were given the same four wines to taste. Initially they were invited to discuss their views on wine quality. The participants were then presented with the wines and asked to discuss their responses to them, particularly their perceptions of the quality of the wines.

Findings

The primary findings related to: the changes in apparent certainty levels amongst professionals and high‐involvement informants; exposure of real and contradictory preferences; role of cognitive, affective, and sensory responses to wine; and interpretation of the language of tasting.

Research limitations/implications

Tasting as a PT has the potential to generate additional and insightful data that can increase our appreciation of the complexities involved in consumption experiences. In particular, it can reveal the uncertainty that can affect consumers' product evaluations and explicate the multiple evaluation pathways that can be used by consumers of food and beverage products.

Originality/value

The paper is of value in showing that the ability of PTs to yield both stated and actual preferences provides insight into the salient external factors that impact on consumption decisions and gives an indication of where marketers could most effectively focus their product development and promotional attention.
Research ethics
Authors: Oliver John , Eales Keith
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present empirical evidence that focuses on the use of covert participant observation as a method of data collection and consider the ethical nature of this method as a means to create knowledge that leads to direct management action. This ethical debate centres on issues such as informed consent, rights and consequences. This paper develops the consequentialist argument by reflecting on experiences of using covert participant observation and the consequences of using such a method in empirical management research.

Design/methodology/approach

Conducted independently of one another, two empirical case studies highlight the choices made and the justification for using covert participant observation as a means to investigate organisational issues.

Findings

The paper concludes that this research method can be used effectively within an ethical framework and suggests that researchers need to be more aware of the potential consequences on themselves in terms of the personal, emotional and trust issues that centre around deception when using covert participant observation.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers are now asked to consider the consequences on themselves of conducting covert participant observation and, in particular, to assess the potential problems arising in the form of emotional or personal implications when being deceptive.

Originality/value

The ethical debate concerning the rights and consequences of conducting covert participant observation is extended to include a consideration of the consequences for the researcher pertaining to the collection and use of data using this research method. The paper goes beyond the traditional aspects of the debate by extending it to consider the consequences on the researcher of using what is essentially a research method based on deception.
The relationship of strategic performance management to team strategy, company performance and organizational effectiveness
Authors: Sum Chau Vinh
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this editorial is to introduce the special issue on the relationship of strategic performance management to team strategy, company performance and organizational effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains each of the components in this relationship before introducing the problematic issues regarding this relationship and where the gaps are missing in the extant literature; hence the need for the special issue is justified.

Findings

The paper finds that the concluding remarks are offered to suggest that strategic performance management can take place at top management, middle management, or strategic operations levels, and the their impact on team strategy, company performance and organizational effectiveness can be regarded as a special phenomenon, termed “strategic team performance management”.

Originality/value

This editorial provides an overview of this compilation which comprises five original papers that are examples of latest developments in this research area, and each of these articles contains a brief introduction on how they contribute to filling in gaps in the literature.
Enhancing post‐acquisition organisational performance: the role of the top management team
Authors: Vasilaki Athina , O'Regan Nicholas
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the link between the effectiveness of the top management team (TMT) and post‐acquisition organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper undertakes a literature review, identifies four streams of research regarding TMT effectiveness and explores the role of TMT in the post‐acquisition integration process.

Findings

The paper identified the characteristics of an effective TMT in the post‐acquisition integration context. It pointed to the fact that, if TMTs effectively utilise the resources, effectively manage group processes and demonstrate high levels of group task leadership as well as personal integration to the task, then it will lead to an effective decision‐making process, demonstrate vision and be able to exert influence and commitment to the goal from their subordinates.

Practical implications

The paper can be used by managers to help them identify the critical factors that contribute to the success of an acquisition.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the literature on TMT effectiveness, applies it to the M&A context and proposes a way of examining this relationship.
Interpersonal conflict and resolution strategies
Authors: Leung Alicia S.M.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of interpersonal conflict on team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a qualitative study in which a total of 40 executives were interviewed who represented employees working in various Chinese organizations.

Findings

The paper finds causes of conflicts including a demanding boss, inconsistency between word and deed, and in‐group favouritism. The conflict‐resolving strategies were categorized as avoidance and cooperative. No competitive or confrontational strategies were adopted. Avoidance strategies involved deference to authority, giving face and maintaining harmony, whereas cooperative strategies involved building trust.

Practical implications

Avoidance strategies discourage open communication and clarification, which further suppresses hidden conflicts. This leads to forbearance and the suppression of personal goals in pursuit of a superficial harmonious yet conflicting relationship. In contrast, cooperative strategies have much to offer. However, adopting a cooperative strategy can have both a positive and a negative effect on a team's performance. On the positive side, trust is an essential component in cooperation that promotes synergistic relationships. On the negative side, it induces low conflict efficacy among employees, because they feel obliged to identify with the boss's goals and values, and be faithful.

Originality/value

On an individual level, failing to comply with differences and relational contracts can be perceived as a personal deficiency, and these attributions can adversely affect employees' short‐term career prospects and long‐term career development. On an organization level, interpersonal conflict can result in higher rates of turnover and absenteeism, and time can be lost owing to angry emotional reactions that in turn translate into financial losses.
ICT (information communication technology), peripherality and smaller hospitality businesses in Scotland
Authors: Irvine Wilson , Anderson Alistair R.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of information communication technology (ICT) in small rural hospitality businesses. Although ICT is often presented as a means of reducing the impact of being rural, little is known about the extent or level of use of ICT. This paper addresses these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather and analyse data. The study had two stages: an initial survey to determine the extent and pervasion of ICT; and a second interview stage to explore the role and applications of ICT.

Findings

The authors find that 84 per cent of the businesses use ICT effectively, mainly to provide information and improve service quality. In addition, some firms had adopted very successful methods of using the internet for sales and marketing but ignored supply functions. The authors were surprised to find that ICT was seen as a way of enhancing personal service and that rather than a barrier, it was seen to promote quality of service. Moreover the respondents did seem to have used ICT effectively to overcome the disadvantages of location and rurality.

Research limitations/implications

The survey was carried out in a single rural environment and this limits its generalisability. Nonetheless, the study develops some interesting issues about the application of ICT in the rural context.

Practical implications

The paper identifies the benefits derived from the enthusiasm of some rural business owners. They had recognised the efficacy of computing and can provide lessons in how to apply ICT to overcome distance.

Originality/value

The paper addresses a gap in research and offers some insights into the application of ICT in rural areas.
Bounded emotionality in entrepreneurship: an alternative framework
Authors: Jayasinghe Dennis Thomas Kelum , Wickramasinghe Danture
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advocate the employment of “bounded emotionality”, as borrowed from organisational studies on emotionality, as an alternative framework to examine and understand entrepreneurial behaviour and practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors review the debate and trends in entrepreneurship research with particular regard to structure and agency. They then argue that the application of Mumby and Putnam's concept of “bounded emotionality” strengthens the critical tradition and particularly contributes to that strand which utilises Giddens' structuration theory by explicitly treating the emotional aspects of entrepreneurial behaviour that operate outside the consciousness of individual agency.

Findings

The adoption of an alternative methodological framework, involving “bounded emotionality”, within a broad socio‐cutural and political‐economic perspective, can assist policy makers to rethink their generalised approach to the design and implementation of specific programmes and initiatives to support entrepreneurial development in favour of devising alternative approaches to fit particular contexts and localised settings.

Research limitations/implications

This theoretical paper contributes to the critical debate in entrepreneurial research, which advocates the need for an alternative, more socialised approach that attempts to account for the relationship between social structure and individual entrepreneurial action.

Originality/value

The paper contains the first attempt to apply the concept of “bounded rationality” to entrepreneurship research.
The entrepreneur: a new breed of health service leader?
Authors: Exton Rosemary
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to critically examine the notion of entrepreneurship in the UK National Health Service (NHS), promoted by government ministers and senior civil servants as part of the rhetoric of the modernisation agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores literature on entrepreneurship in the private and public sector and qualitative case study evidence on the emergence (and non‐emergence) of “entrepreneurs” who led the improving working lives (IWL) initiative in the UK National Health Service and discusses the issues involved.

Findings

The rhetoric serves an essentially ideological function, obscuring the real difficulty of securing effective and sustainable change, in organisations with deeply engrained power structures and as complex and intransient as the NHS in particular and health services more generally.

Practical implications

A “new breed of entrepreneurial leaders” may eventually appear but they face the challenge of surviving in the hierarchical NHS culture and in a climate of turbulent change created by the volatility of government policy.

Originality/value

The paper shows that efforts to pursue entrepreneurship in the UK NHS have to overcome obstacles involving the interplay of power, gender and language.
The effect of a full shift system on doctors
Authors: Bamford Nicola , Bamford David
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the implications and impact from the implementation of European Working Time Directive (EWTD) compliant working patterns (the introduction of shifts) on doctors.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, case study based research method was used. Data collection involved: the application of semi‐structured, open‐ended interviewing to elicit information based upon categories defined from the literature survey; follow‐up conversations with many interviewees; participant observation; thematic coding and analysis of the results.

Findings

Shifts are here to stay. All doctors interviewed acknowledged that, but there was a general feeling of minimal flexibility in the system. A recurrent theme when asked how things could be improved was to split‐up the week of night shifts into two shorter periods. Some doctors, particularly those working full‐time with small children, already split their weekends in order to spend time with their family.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology applied was appropriate, generating ample data to facilitate discussion and from which to draw specific conclusions. A perceived limitation is the single case approach; however Remenyi argues this can be enough to add to the body of knowledge.

Practical implications

The research generated suggestions for how shifts could be scheduled to make them more palatable for those who work them. Specific recommendations for future research are made.

Originality/value

The research questions of the paper draw out the personal implications for doctors of their employers' adherence to the implementation of EWTD.
Work satisfaction of medical doctors in the South African private health sector
Authors: Pillay Rubin
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the extent of work satisfaction among general practitioners and to examine the variables influencing the different aspects of their work satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a cross‐sectional survey of general practitioners in the private sector, conducted throughout South Africa, using a self‐administered questionnaire. Univariate statistical models were used to evaluate levels of satisfaction with various facets of work, while inferences about the effect of several independent variables on the work satisfaction facets were drawn from multiple regression models using a stepwise regression procedure.

Findings

Doctors were satisfied with the social and personal aspects of their work and dissatisfied with the practice environment pressures and work setting issues. Overall, doctors were dissatisfied with their work and their careers. Being female, working in large groups, having been in practice for 20 years or more, having a high proportion of insured patients and being incentivised to conserve resources were significant predictors of lower overall satisfaction. Clinical freedom, positive perceptions of managed care strategies, remuneration on a fee‐for‐service basis and working in small groups were predictors of greater overall satisfaction.

Originality/value

The paper shows that, although doctors were generally dissatisfied, there are opportunities for enhancing work satisfaction and care provision if policymakers, administrators and health care managers work in collaboration with doctors to provide the specific working conditions that health professionals desire.
Dependence and identity: nurses and chronic conditions in a primary care setting
Authors: McDonald Ruth , Rogers Anne , Macdonald Wendy
Published: June 2008

Purpose – This paper aims to explore the ways in which practice nurses engage in identity work in the context of chronic disease management in primary care and assess the extent to which this is compatible with the identities promoted in government policy. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on qualitative interviews with nurses applying the concepts of “identity threat” and Hegel's Master‐Slave dialectic to explore the implications of nurse‐patient interdependence for identity in a policy context which aims to promote self‐management and patient empowerment. Findings – The nurses in the study showed little sign of adapting their identities in line with government policies intended to empower health care “consumers”. Instead, various aspects of identity work were identified which can be seen as helping to defend against identity threat and maintain and reproduce the traditional order. Practical implications – The paper provides information on barriers to self‐management that are likely to inhibit the implementation of government policy. Originality/value – Whilst much has been written on the extent to which patients are dependent on health professionals, the issue of professional dependence on patients has received much less attention. The paper hightlights how viewing the nurse‐patient relationship in the context of a struggle for mastery related to identity represents a departure from traditional approaches and sheds light on hitherto unexplored barriers to self‐management.
Assessment of destination performance: a strategy map approach
Authors: De Carlo Manuela , Cugini Antonella , Zerbini Fabrizio
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Notwithstanding a growing interest on destination management, little is known about the formation and evaluation of destination managers' strategies. Strategy assessment is essential to understand whether, and how, destination managers allow the reconciliation of the diverse stakeholders' interests within an integrated destination plan, pursuing the development of the destination. The purpose of this paper is the exploration and building of a strategy assessment approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology is adopted, to identify key dimensions of strategy assessment and their combination within an integrated destination plan. Data come from the city of Turin, and the destination management organization developed for 2006 Winter Olympic Games.

Findings

The use of balanced scorecard approaches points out how a financial dimension is key in meta‐management contexts, notwithstanding the public interests of the destination supply system. Also, this work discloses the formative process that characterizes strategic planning within supply networks of tourism destination. It describes the hierarchy of strategy assessment, taking into consideration externalities emerging from integrated supply systems developed at the destination level.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations are intrinsic to case study methods, and points on findings generalizability.

Practical implications

The paper offers insights on developing analytical capability within meta‐management organizations, to diagnose value creation and competitiveness gaps. Also, it gives insights on developing co‐ordination capabilities, allowing different strategic goals to be drawn into an integrated design.

Originality/value

The paper offers a novel approach for developing a strategy map, and contributes to prior research on strategy assessment in meta‐management.
Determinants of children's attitudes towards “advergames”: the case of Mexico
Authors: Hernandez Monica D.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors contributing to positive attitudes toward advergames among later elementary school children in Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was conducted via experiments in an elementary school computer lab followed by a paper‐and‐pencil questionnaire.

Findings

Regression analysis revealed that entertainment and sociability positively related to positive attitudes toward advergames, whereas escapism was found to be negatively related. The most robust finding was the significant effect of entertainment on attitudes. Interestingly, Mexican children perceived entertainment and sociability as closely related. In sum, they claimed that they play online games for fun or as a means to socialize, but not to get away from their responsibilities.

Research limitations/implications

The games selected for the study promote global brands of an international corporation with considerable time in the market. Future work could develop local or hypothetical brands and test them in the same context.

Practical implications

Empirical evidence by means of a Mexican sample contributes by providing support about attitudes' formation and computer usage among Latin American children.

Originality/value

The study contributes by providing valuable insights about children's attitudes toward advergames formation.
Adolescents report television characters do not influence their self‐perceptions of body image, weight, clothing choices or food habits
Authors: Winham Donna , Hampl Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Social cognitive theory (SCT) suggests that the observation of role models prompts the formation of beliefs that will govern future behaviors. The paper's objective is to explore the perceived influence of television media on feelings about eating habits, body image, clothing styles, and physical attractiveness attributes by high schools students in terms of SCT.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on attitudes and perceptions were collected using an online survey of a convenience sample of high school students (n=467) to determine influence of television media characters on behaviors.

Findings

The results of this survey suggest that high school students do not indiscriminately model behaviors depicted by television programs, but may selectively incorporate some views that fit with their reality such as the importance of attractiveness in romantic partners, but not influences of clothing styles or eating habits.

Research limitations/implications

Recognition of the fictional quality of television characters does not refute that they have influence on the high school respondents, but it does suggest some degree of cognitive recognition about the lack of reality of television characters. The convenience sample of adolescents may be more media‐savvy than others because of associations with high‐school journalism programs.

Originality/value

High school students do not indiscriminately model behaviors depicted by television programs, but may selectively incorporate some views that fit with their reality in accordance with SCT.