bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the assumptions underlying information systems methodologies
Authors: Russo Nancy L. , Stolterman Erik
Published: May 2004

Assumptions about an object under study can influence research in many ways. These preconceptions color the researcher’s perspective, and influence the research purpose, the research questions addressed, and the research methods used. This paper identifies and analyzes the following assumptions regarding information systems methodology (ISM) research: the positive impact of methodologies on the process and product of information system design; the irrationality of design practice; the existence of knowledge about good design practice; the ability to communicate design knowledge to practicing designers; and the ability to change the rationality of design practitioners. The impact of these assumptions on ISM research is examined for the purpose of highlighting limitations of past research and identifying more promising directions for the future.
The “Modernisation” of the Australian Taxation Office:
Authors: Segall Patsy , Cebalo Michael , Jolly Cath , Wilson Bruce
Published: May 2004

The difficulties in designing and implementing successful technological
systems which support business objectives, good work practices and high
quality outcomes are well known. Discusses the “modernisation” of the
Australian Taxation Office – an ambitious ten‐year programme of
organizational and tech‐nological change – which has its origins in the
need for re‐equipment and the recognition that the new systems must
support the way in which the Taxation Office would work in the future.
Review of the programme mid‐term shows considerable success, but also
areas where it has been difficult to achieve some of the aims. In spite
of the participatory framework, participants tend to feel that
technology has driven the process, rather than business or workplace
requirements. In particular, some initiatives have impacted negatively
on workers, and it has been difficult to integrate the implementation of
new systems with the design of better work practices. Recognition of
these problems has encouraged the development of new approaches to work
and systems design, and considerable further organizational and
structural change.
The EDI project in Slovenia: a case study and model for developing
countries
Authors: McCubbery Donald J. , Gricar Joze
Published: May 2004

Describes the adoption of electronic data interchange (EDI) in
Slovenia. Explains how this was aided by the co‐operation of companies,
government agencies, universities and several international
organizations. Proposes that Slovenia can serve as a model for other
developing countries.
Reflecting over a practice
Authors: Heiskanen Ari
Published: May 2004

Explores the possibilities of basing scientific investigation on
the practical experiences gained by the author when he participated in
the development of the Student Information System of a Finnish
university. The practical process which lasted over a decade contained
several theoretically interesting issues which could be formulated as
meaningful research problems. They concerned the design of acts, the
evaluation of the outcomes of the various phases of the process, and the
formulation of the experience to models which could be transferred to
other contexts. The overall analysis method is reflection‐in‐action in
the form suggested by Donald Schön. Each practical problem is
paraphrased through reflection‐in‐action which yields a theoretical
understanding of the phenomenon at hand. This frames the situation; the
framing is necessary for the solution that is to be designed. Indicates
that reflection‐in‐action can yield research results just as valid as
other types of organizational studies. It is not superior to other
possible approaches such as action research or organizational
ethnography, but the threats to its quality, like the danger of
partiality and revisionism of the investigator involved, are compensated
for because the researcher has excellent access to the target
organization and even confidential data.
Case study on exceptions
Authors: Saastamoinen Heikki
Published: May 2004

Discusses exceptions in office work and the link between rules and
exceptions in office information systems. After describing the nature of
exceptions, examines their effect on rules. Provides a case study of a
factory purchasing process, including unmatched invoices, costs,
classification and strategic changes.
The truth is out there: the search for emancipatory principles in information systems design
Authors: Wilson F.A.
Published: May 2004

Examines how information systems design may enable progress towards the “ideal speech situation” where free and undistorted communication between equally empowered agents may take place and result in a consensus that has been rationally negotiated. Considers the assumptions of several current information systems design proposals which claim to encourage social reflexivity among the design participants. Develops an analysis of whether or not a systems based solution may be developed which is truly emancipatory for the individual living and working within an organization.
Augmenting group sense making in ill‐defined, emerging situations
Authors: Nosek John T. , McNeese Michael D.
Published: May 2004

Describes how, in ill‐defined, emerging situations, team members struggle to make sense of the situation, react to stimuli from the external environment, and interact with each other and human artefacts to develop an interpretation of the environment. Presents a general model of this process, lessons derived from experiences in trying to support it, and issues for future development.
Customer‐vendor co‐operation
Authors: Kjær Arne , Halskov Madsen Kim
Published: May 2004

Illustrates a case story detailing the customer‐vendor co‐operation in a project concerning the beta test of hardware and software at a radiology department. A qualitative analysis of the project has unveiled that contextual conditions like the nature of the technology, the organizational structure at both the customer and the vendor side, the development strategy, and the project organization were very important forces during the project. Technologically, the project was more complex than usually was seen at the hospital because it concerned both biomedical and administrative aspects. Conflicting interests in particular on the part of the customer side as well as between the customer and the vendor affected the course of the project. Methodologically, the project lacked a proper strategy for the co‐operative process. There was no formalized project organization which otherwise could have provided different conditions for the project.
Trends in food safety management in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Margaret Roberts Linda , Deery Margaret
Published: May 2004

This paper examines the implementation of recent changes to Victorian food safety legislation with particular reference to the implications for the foodservice industry. The research findings reported in this paper are based on a major food safety management audit undertaken for the Victorian Auditor General's Office. The components of the audit, on which this paper is based, involved a quantitative survey of all 79 of the Victorian local councils, in‐depth qualitative audits of 12 of these councils selected across the range of councils, from central business district to urban, suburban and rural locations, and a telephone survey of 219 food businesses within these 12 councils. Concludes that, to improve food safety awareness among operators, local councils need to pay attention to the provision of effective education and training programs, to the timely review of food safety programs, and to have a risk‐based approach to inspections.
Who's kicking whom? Employees' orientations to work
Authors: Martin Emma
Published: May 2004

Despite the renowned poor employment practices across the hospitality industry recent analysis of the Workplace Industrial Relations Survey reported higher levels of job satisfaction among hospitality employees than those in other industries. This paper presents a collective case study of hospitality employees across four small independent restaurants to shed light onto why this situation might exist. The paper discusses the influence an employee's orientation to work has and demonstrates how orientations underpin individual attitudes and behaviour. In presenting four different orientations to work, how individuals manage work and life for personal satisfaction and gain, is illustrated. Indeed, this individualistic ideology contributes to the levels of job satisfaction reported.
The relationship between strategy and entrepreneurship
Authors: Elwood Williams Care , Tse Eliza C.Y.
Published: May 2004

Proposes primarily to test empirically Smith′s entrepreneurial
typology and Miles and Snow′s typology of strategy in the restaurant
sector, and then to establish whether or not there is a relationship
between type of entrepreneur and type of strategy. Evidence suggests
that Smith′s two entrepreneurial types may not be mutually exclusive and
that a third group of entrepreneurs exists combining characteristics
from both Smith′s craftsmen and opportunistic types. Finds support for
Miles and Snow′s four generic strategies of defender, prospector,
analyser and reactor. Through the use of discriminant analysis, it was
possible to demonstrate a relationship between type of entrepreneur and
type of strategy.
TQM – Lessons to Be Learned from Failure
Authors: McManus John
Published: May 2004

Describes a survey of staff attitudes to TQM undertaken within the IT
department of a well‐known UK company. Discusses the findings and
concludes that other companies can learn from the company’s unsuccessful
implementation.
The “Safe Way” to Quality Management
Authors: Sohal Amrik
Published: May 2004

Describes how in Australia Safeway introduced TQM into one of its
loss‐making country stores with such good results that TQM has now been
adopted throughout the corporation.
Measuring and Achieving Quality Customer Service in the Public Sector
Authors: Nwankwo Sonny , Richardson Bill
Published: May 2004

Advocates a value‐based approach to achieving and managing customer
service. Sees quality as being on a low‐profile path in public sector
organizations. Describes four stages – ideation, design, delivery and
maintenance – by which a turnaround to a high‐profile path can be
achieved.
Does the rhetoric of customer service match the reality?
Authors: Nicolson Julia , Kemp John , Linnell Paul
Published: May 2004

Reports on research by the Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals and TARP Europe Ltd into the effectiveness of customer service as a marketing tool and whether companies are really as customer focused as they maintain. Classifies UK companies into three classes: those who deliver effective customer service; those who do not have any department or individual responsible for customer service and deal with it in an ad hoc manner; and those who fit between these two. Concludes that in the UK there is some way to go before companies actually achieve the levels of customer service which they maintain they have already reached. Proposes that when this is attained, companies will be in a better competitive position.
Quality is bringing back a key service element ‐ ownership
Authors: Choppin Jon
Published: May 2004

Recent history has broken down traditional working relationships, robbing individuals of the ownership of their work. Charts how total quality management is reinstating this sense of ownership, linking the concepts of teamwork, empowerment and subsidiarity, and providing a secure future for all concerned.
Jonathan Dandy interviews Terry Wells, director of Customer Service, J. Sainsbury plc
Authors: Dandy Jonathan
Published: May 2004

Reports an interview with Terry Wells, director of Customer Service at J. Sainsbury plc, where the importance of customer service is discussed. States that the provision of good service is “critical” in keeping customer loyalty. Shows how J. Sainsbury keeps customer loyalty which even makes the customer less price sensitive. Concludes that at Sainsbury’s, at least, providing good customer service has proved to be profitable.
Customer care ‐ making it work
Authors: Bailey Graham
Published: May 2004

Briefly reviews some results of a survey on training requirements, the most important of which appeared to be customer care. States that organizations need long‐term strategy, not two‐day courses in customer care. Describes the process and lists objectives of creating a customer‐care strategy. Concludes with a list of recommendations.
Becoming a customer‐driven organization: three key questions
Authors: Quinn Feargal
Published: May 2004

Draws on the author’s own experiences as managing director of the Irish supermarket chain, Superquinn, highlighting the “boomerang” principle of bringing the customer back. Presents three main tasks for creating a customer‐driven organization: getting every team member working to meet customer needs; developing a marketing department superior in size and performance to that of competitors; and rewarding customer loyalty. Discusses how each of these can be achieved successfully, leading to a growing business and increased profitability.
The self‐assessment process at 1994 Euro quality winner, Ericsson SA
Authors: Manuel Cangas José
Published: May 2004

Describes Ericsson’s quality programme and sets out the quality policy and strategy which were integrated into the quality manual. Details the operations system and total quality management programme in which procedures for self‐assessment were developed. Explains the self‐assessment process which has been made a permanent management process. Suggests various benefits of the programme.
Optimum Information Technology for Socioeconomic Development
Authors: Madu Christian N. , Kuei Chu‐hua
Published: May 2004

Uses the analytic hierarchy process to identify and rank the
multi‐criteria which influence the socioeconomic goal of improving the
quality of life and then classify these factors based on their levels of
difficulty. Uses quality function deployment to establish a linkage
between socioeconomic factors and information technology programs.
OCLC and Innovative Interfaces, Inc.: a Passport connection
Authors: CannCasciato Daniel
Published: May 2004

Outlines a workflow change made in processing the list of headings
used for the first time in a library′s catalog. The change utilizes the
Internet connectivity features of Passport software. Benefits of the new
workflow are a significant increase in headings reviewed, while
secondary benefits noted are decreases in the use of staff time, wear on
machinery and consumption of printer resources.
OCLC Users’ Council minutes, May 21‐23, 1995
Authors: Ostendorf JoEllen
Published: May 2004

Details the last OCLC Users′ Council meeting which had the theme
“Cooperation and competition: OCLC and libraries′ strategies for
the next generation”. Reports include: the delegate algorithm task
force report; OCLC reference services; OCLC cataloging and resource
sharing; the Users′ Council executive committee report on
telecommunications; access to OCLC services – trends pricing and
the future. Concludes with a summary of the question/answer and old
business sessions.
Access as a substitute for holdings: false ideal, costly reality?
Authors: Line Maurice B.
Published: May 2004

Argues that the much‐advocated switch from holdings to access has
serious snags where current material is concerned. Libraries should
discard most of their stock of older material and provide access to more
current material. This requires the existence of a centralized
collection of older material available to users.
A study of the effect of CD indexes on online searching in a
science and engineering library
Authors: Siddiqui Moid A.
Published: May 2004

Studies the effect of eight CD indexes on online searching through
statistical data of online searching conducted for the faculty, graduate
students and researchers before and after acquisition of CD indexes.
Findings indicate considerable decline in online searching use owing to
CD indexes saving a large amount of money. Discusses the impact of CD
indexes on staffing in the reference department.
The internationalization of MARC ‐ part IV: UNIMARC, some formats based on it and some other MARC formats
Authors: Kokabi Mortaza
Published: May 2004

Discusses some of the problems associated with the requirements and the prospects for international standards for the exchange of bibliographic records in machine‐readable form: the various roles of national bibliographies and national libraries; a lack of international cataloging standards; a lack of an international subject control system; language difficulties; character sets and codes; and nonroman alphabets. Explains that these problems lie behind the development of various MARC formats out of UNIMARC. In this final part of a four‐part article, describes the formats for South Africa, Taiwan, Japan, Croatia and Germany and indicates the points of difference and local requirements.
The Network of Networks Project: electronic communications and CD‐ROM data storage ‐ some challenges for information delivery
Authors: Ciurlizza Alejandra
Published: May 2004

Describes the Network of Networks project in Latin America, the objective of which is to improve access by the end‐user to existing information resources through an integrated approach to network support and development. Discusses its experiments with various information technologies including electronic communications, through AlterNex/Internet. Describes the use of electronic conferences to coordinate and discuss information services and product delivery, cooperative CD‐ROM production, marketing and information management. Anticipates the future use of CD‐ROM for full‐text document delivery.
Decision making by Scottish bank managers
Authors: Fletcher Margaret
Published: May 2004

Commercial banks are the major source of external finance for small
firms in the UK. Describes a study which was carried out to investigate
how bank managers make decisions on lending to small firms. The study
looked at adverse selection (i.e. where a manager turns down a good
proposal which turns out to be a success) and its effect on small firm
liquidity constraints. The researcher took on the role of an
entrepreneur and presented a business plan based on an actual lending
proposition to bank managers in Scotland. Compares the study with an
English study. Findings suggest a more favourable treatment of the
proposition by the Scottish bank managers. However, there was variation
among banks in the way managers assessed the proposition. There was an
emphasis on financial information, gearing and security which reflects
the capital‐based approach to bank risk assessment in the UK. Considers
policy implications for risk assessment and small firms/banking
relationships.
Entrepreneurship and decision making: the contribution of G.L.S. Shackle
Authors: Batstone Stephen , Pheby John
Published: May 2004

Discusses the contributions to economic theory by various authors and covers popular beliefs about entrepreneurial function. Analyses the potential contribution of Shackle to the development of entrepreneurial theory and outlines key elements of his theory. Concludes that a better understanding of Shackle’s decision‐making theory is useful, particularly now there is renewed interest in entrepreneurship.
Local production networks in the global marketplace
Authors: Kalantaridis Christos
Published: May 2004

During the 1980s and early 1990s it was widely reported that large parts of the European countryside experienced considerable industrial growth led by a burgeoning of small and medium‐scale enterprises. The growth of these firms was closely associated with an expansion of trade and the intensification of competition on a world scale and the renaissance of industrial districts in specific localities. Within this context the notion of the “network” has been deployed in order to explore the complex interrelationships that exist in the relatively uncharted territory that lies between enterprises. This concept is employed to show how production units without any apparent legal connections establish a web of relationships in terms of flows of materials, information and finance. Social networks of entrepreneurs often lie behind the multitude of inter‐firm linkages. Focuses on a garment‐producing district of the northern Greek region of Macedonia that has experienced an explosion of enterprises and jobs since the early 1970s. Drawing on the experience of the small town of Polikastro and the adjoining rural county of Peonia, sets out to explore the processes of subcontracting and production networking. Aims to investigate the form and the nature of interorganizational relationships within the locality as well between rural industrialists, urban intermediaries and parent enterprises abroad. Examines changes in the linkages between firms within the context of developments that have taken place in the local communities and in the international marketplace.
An EASIER way to search online engineering resource
Authors: Granum Geir , Barker Phil
Published: May 2004

EEVL, the Edinburgh Engineering Virtual Library, consists of several distinct resources, which exist as separate databases. This article describes the approach taken to tackle a particular problem that was identified through evaluation studies, namely, that searches of the EEVL catalogue too frequently matched no records. The solution described in this paper is a cross‐search facility for three of the EEVL databases.
Internet use in university libraries of Pakistan
Authors: Saeed Hamid , Asghar Muhammad , Anwar Muhammad , Ramzan Muhammad
Published: May 2004

The study examines the status and use of the Internet in university libraries of Pakistan. A questionnaire was distributed among the university libraries including the degree granting institutions. The data derived from this study indicated that half the university libraries in Pakistan have access to the Internet and it has become an essential part of library services. The Internet is also being heavily used for performing various library functions such as reference work, classification and cataloguing, document delivery service, subscription to online journals, etc. The study also discusses the problems that are preventing wider use of the Internet in the higher educational institutions of Pakistan.
New database products‐ science, technology and medicine (issue 13)
Authors: Williams Martha E.
Published: May 2004

Outlines new database products appearing in the Gale Directory of Databases, a two‐volume work published twice a year. Provides figures for the distribution and percentage of new and newly implemented science, technology and medicine databases including name, vendor and medium. Briefly discusses these by each medium.
New database products: science, technology, and medicine (issue 14)
Authors: Williams Martha E , Smith Linda C
Published: May 2004

Outlines new database products appearing in the Gale Directory of Databases, a two‐volume work published twice a year. Provides figures for the distribution and percentage of new and newly implemented science technology and medicine databases, together with a lits of the databases including name, vendor and medium. Briefly discusses these by each medium.
Identification and resolution systems for networked access to information
Authors: van der Werf‐Davelaar Titia
Published: May 2004

This article provides an overview of state of the art developments and emerging infrastructures to discover, identify and access information published on the web. It is based on an earlier discussion paper (Werf‐Davelaar, 1999) of work carried out in the context of the following projects: DONOR, which aims to establish an enabling infrastructure for improved information management and retrieval on SURFnet. SURFnet is the academic network in the Netherlands that provides Internet access to over 250 research and higher education organisations. DONOR is an initiative of the Koninklijke Bibliotheek, the National Library of the Netherlands. The project ran from 1998‐1999, with funding from the Steering Committee for Innovation in Scientific Information Provision in the Netherlands (IWI). The project‘s home page is at www.konbib.nl/donor; DESIRE, which aims to enhance existing European information networks for research users across Europe through research and development in three main areas of activity: caching, resource discovery and directory services. DESIRE runs from 1996‐2000, with funding from the European Commission‘s Telematics Application Programme. The project‘s home page is at www.desire.org; NEDLIB, which aims to construct the basic infrastructure upon which a networked European deposit library can be built. The objectives of NEDLIB concur with the mission of national deposit libraries to ensure that present electronic publications, including web resources can be used now and in the future. NEDLIB runs from 1998‐2000, with funding from the European Commission‘s Telematics Application Programme. The project‘s home page is at www.konbib.nl/nedlib.
DVD: The next evolutionary step for publishing multimedia reference sources
Authors: Kousha Kayvan
Published: May 2004

Recently, the new application of DVD technology in multimedia reference sources provides opportunities to integrate a large amount of various media, as well as many kinds of reference sources, on a single disc. This paper provides an overview of the recent trends towards publishing DVD multimedia reference sources and discusses the advantages of DVD‐ROMs and the gigabyte storage potential of the technology for publishing multimeia reference sources.
Cracking the code: web log analysis
Authors: Nicholas David , Huntington Paul , Lievesley Nat , Withey Richard
Published: May 2004

With the web being such a universally popular medium, accounting forever more a people‘s information seeking behaviour, and with every move a person makes on the web being routinely monitored, web logs offer a treasure trove of data. This data is breathtaking in its sheer volume, detail and potential. Unlike previous computerised logs ‐ like those of OPACs for instance, web logs are capable of tracking literally millions of users worldwide and they are not confined to the actions of niche groups with specialised and largely academic needs. The data are of enormous strategic and widespread concern. Unfortunately the logs turn out to be good on volume and (certain) detail but bad at precision and attribution. They raise many questions ‐ what actually constitutes use being the biggest of them ‐ but provide far fewer answers. There are also many ways of reading logs. All the problems really arise from the fact that, in the case of the web, the virtual user is the computer. Resolving use to an individual is extremely difficult. Nevertheless, there is much that can be gleaned from web logs. Before this can be done, however, it is necessary to take precautions. First, do not rely on proprietary log analysis software. Second, do employ statistical methods to fill in the knowledge gap. Third, try to improve/enhance the data capture through other methods, like linking subscriber details to the web log. Fourth, bring an understanding of what users do when online to the interpretation of the data. The benefits (and problems) of web log analysis are demonstrated in the light of the experience of evaluating The Times and Sunday Times web sites. These sites are subscribed to by nearly a million people from around the globe and it is the online actions of these people ‐ the new international and information consumers ‐ that will be the subject of the paper.
Survey of pre‐school eating habits
Authors: Buttriss Judy
Published: May 2004

Examines the results of a new government survey into the eating
habits of pre‐school children (1½‐4 ½ years).
Discusses the effects on children′s health by examination of blood
samples and dental examinations. Concludes with statistics on dental
decay due to intake of certain foods.
Delighting Customers
Authors: Donovan Peter , Samler Timothy
Published: May 2004

Delighting customers should be a compelling business strategy. Details
The Ten‐step Approach to Delighting Customers on which Northern Telecom
Europe and Oracle Corporation UK based their customer‐driven programmes.
Identifies perception as the fifth P of marketing management that
distinguishes a customer‐driven organization.
OCLC documentation
Authors: Crosby Ellen
Published: May 2004

Focusses on cataloging documentation provided by OCLC and provides
examples of exercises for classroom and in‐house training. Provides tips
including: how to make a search more specific; interpreting search
results; describes the authority file; suggests how to recover from
errors; and gives basic editing information.
OCLC’s role on the Internet
Authors: Busick Robert
Published: May 2004

Briefly describes the history of the Internet and OHIONET.
Discusses OCLC′s role and involvement in providing a comprehensive
service nationwide. Covers OCLC′s commitment to provide selected
services to its members via the Internet, and details the advantages of
this.
The Use of Information Technology to Achieve Accurate Pricing in
Agricultural Commodity Markets in Japan
Authors: Matsuda Tomoyoshi
Published: May 2004

At one level, the function of a marketplace is to enable sellers and
buyers to meet, to agree to terms and conditions, and effect contracts.
At another level, however, a marketplace is a mechanism for ensuring
that information which might affect the terms and conditions is readily
available to all participants, so that the pricing for sales will not be
unduly influenced by participants with special information or other
advantages, but rather will approach the theoretical price at which the
market will settle. Information technology is increasingly being applied
to support the exchange of goods and services. It may be used simply to
automate existing practices. Alternatively, the introduction of
technology into the market may provide an opportunity to rationalize the
arrangements. In some instances, however, the implementation of IT may
be grasped as a strategic weapon, by a buyer, a seller, or by an
organization which provides marketplace services to buyers and sellers.
Considers another kind of strategic use of IT in relation to
marketplaces. This is the enforcement of fairness in the setting of
prices, by drawing participants into a marketplace in which key
differences in market power are equalized. Evaluates the outcomes of an
electronic exchange supporting trading in chilled and frozen meat.
Technological education and training
Authors: Davis Colin
Published: May 2004

Looks at the kind of technological education and training which will be
necessary to staff the successful companies of the year 2000, concentrating
on the recent European Automation and Robotics Training Conference held in
London, where a discussion of this subject took place. Topics covered
included ways of unlocking European funds to support education and training
projects, the need for hybrid technicians with multi‐disciplinary
skills and the launching of the first undergraduate degree course in the UK
with robotics as a central theme. Concludes that training in robotics and
automation is becoming more difficult as the complexity of controls,
monitoring and adaptive devices grows. There is a need for more awareness of
industry when developing courses for upcoming technicians and engineering
graduates and a need to develop a continuous improvement culture that updates
the education training of management and staff at all levels in
companies.
Flexible grippers for mechanical assembly
Authors: Baartman J.P. , Storm T.
Published: May 2004

Describes current research work into the development of a three finger
industrial gripper suitable for flexible assembly work. Outlines the key
aspects of building and programming the gripper and ways of simplifying its
control with local computing and looks at the interaction between product
design, gripper properties and assembly process. Concludes that a generic
industrial gripper has been built, that is as fast as a normal gripper and
which is able to grasp more part shapes more stably. Programming of the
gripper is partly automated to provide flexibility to the assembly process.
Further research work is being carried out on the project.
Robot users in the UK: a statistical analysis
Authors: Stead Richard , Marchant Paul
Published: May 2004

Reports on a survey of nearly 700 companies to find out who uses
industrial robots in the UK. Outlines how the data was gathered and the
investigation into which factors determined robot use: was it size,
ownership, region, industry or a combination of these.
Where am I? A tutorial on mobile vehicle localization
Authors: Durrant‐Whyte Hugh
Published: May 2004

Examines one of the main problems of mobile robot navigation:
determining exactly where the robot is at all times. Describes the most
important algorithm in localization: the extended Kalman filter. Looks
at the simplest type of navigation using a system of fixed beacons in
conjunction with a special sensor located on the vehicle and also the use of
“natural beacons”. Discuss the problems of building and
maintaining a map for the vehicle. Concludes that a complete solution to
mobile vehicle localization is a long way off.
Robots to inspect welds underwater
Authors: Kenzie Bryan
Published: May 2004

Examines research work to investigate the potential of using robot
manipulators for underwater ultrasonic testing of welds in joints of complex
geometry. Describes experiments carried out into non‐contact
ultrasonic immersion testing using a six‐axis robot and an ultrasonic
inspection system and gives results from scanning of a small T‐node
specimen. Concludes that since the work described was carried out a prototype
five axis scanning device has been developed which is capable of full
underwater operation.
Meta torch a universal seam tracking system for arc welding and similar applications
Authors: Kolbl Wolfgang
Published: May 2004

Describes the MetaTorch sensor system which uses standard components
such as CCD cameras, laser diodes and electronic pre‐processing
hardware to determine the location of objects and features with the help of
the structured light principle. Examines the sensor system’s four main
parts: the sensor head, the data acquisition board, the software and the
interface to the robot or handling machine controller. The initial
application was as an arc welding tracking system but has expanded to a
variety of feature detection or feature following tasks including gluing,
seam sealing and car seat trimming.
Simulation, calibration and off‐line programming
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: May 2004

A report from a meeting of the Institution of Electrical Engineers at
which the problem was considered of the shortfall between robot simulation in
the design office and the reality of the robot in operation on factory floor
Discusses the importance of cell calibration if Off‐line programming
is to be effective and the need for more accurate programming with modules
that precisely simulate the motion behaviour of robots.
Coping with delays—controlling robot manipulators underwater
Authors: Sayers Craig , Paul Richard
Published: May 2004

Examines work on the development of an undersea remotely operated
vehicle which is both unmanned and untethered. Outlines the difficulty of the
only suitable long‐range underwater communication system being an
acoustic link which has a very low bandwidth and a very large delay. The
teleprogramming system seeks to overcome this difficulty by creating a
computer simulation of the remote environment and allowing the operator to
perform his task entirely within that simulated world. Describes the operator
station, command generation to the ROV, the detection of errors and the
hardware implementation. Concludes that the teleprogramming systems provides
a means of performing tasks efficiently, even when the communication between
operator and remote site occurs via a low bandwidth, high delay,
communications link.
Climbing robots—off the shelf
Authors: Chen S , Sattar T , Khalid A , Fan A , Bridge B
Published: May 2004

Outlines the development of a prototype climbing robot for remote
testing using standard off‐the‐shelf components. The system
construction is modularized so that it can be easily reconfigured for a
different task. Describes the desired characteristics of a climbing
inspection robot and how the prototype robot has been designed and
constructed. Gives the system specifications and performance and concludes
that laboratory operation of the CART prototype robot on a steel plate that
simulates an oil storage tank has demonstrated that a cost‐effective
system can be built entirely from standard, commercially available
components.
Nd: Yag lasers and robots‐ cutting automotive parts on the
production floor
Authors: Kugler Thomas R
Published: May 2004

Describes an automated laser cutting cell used in the automotive
industry. The cell has the benefits of fast throughput because of high
cutting speeds, adaptability of height sensing, safety of crash protection
and flexibility of part modifications via robot path and program
modifications. Outlines the feature of the cell which consists of two
Nd:YAG lasers with fibre‐optic delivery and two five‐axis
robots with trepanning heads, and describes their performance
characteristics. Concludes with a summary of the advantages of using a laser
cutting cell.
Robot safety
Authors: Ward G R , Went S R G
Published: May 2004

An overview of the analysis which should be undertaken with regard to
safety where robotic systems are used. Looks at accidents associated with
these systems and the legislation covering their operation in the workplace.
Outlines general guidelines for robotic system design, implementation and
maintenance and the various factors which should be considered with regard to
safety. Describes a proposed International Electrotechnical Commission
[IEC] standard for safety‐related systems and concludes that
if a systematic approach is taken concerning safety from inial design through
to installation operation and maintenance, then accidents can be
minimized.
Robots make their mark at sollac in France
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: May 2004

Report from a steel mill in France where two robots have been installed
to write reference codes on large coils of steel. The working conditions for
this task were very unpleasant and human operators could only work for two or
three hours at a time because of the intense heat that the coils radiate.
Describes how the robot cell operates and how the procedure is monitored by a
technician from a control room. As well as improvements in quality there have
been safety benefits and the company is now installing a third robot at
another mill.
Faster and more accurate industrial robots
Authors: Madesater Ake
Published: May 2004

Describes a new controller for industrial robots. It has new computer
software that allows functions to be improved without interfering with the
overall program structure and improved man‐machine communication for
different application areas. The controller uses state of the art
electronics, including a 32 bit microprocessor to control the robots and
peripherals. It has a windows‐style interface to make it easy to
program and a portable programming unit which functions in the same way as a
personal computer. Outlines features of the controller including the ability
to creating training programs for operators on a PC.
Prolonging a robot’s life expectancy
Authors: Clark‐Derby Garron
Published: May 2004

Looks at refurbishment services which can increase the life expectancy
of robots. The services range from a thorough inspection and cleaning to a
complete factory‐certified mechanical reconditioning program. At the
same time robots can be upgraded to take advantage of current technological
advancements such as new software equipment, accessories and expanded
memories. Describes an exchange service where worn robots are immediately
replaced by reconditioned units which saves money and minimizes production
line disruption. Concludes that refurbishing is an increasingly successful
business area that can also offer opportunities for manufacturing companies
by either exchanging or buying previously owned robots.
Renovation gives robots a new lease of life
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: May 2004

Examines the latest trend in the robotics industry: the renovated
robot. Old robots can now be rebuilt and made as‐good‐as new,
at a fraction of the price of the latest model, resulting in a growing second
hand robot market. Describes the process of a complete renovation of a robot
which may also include some modernization or improvement. Considers how the
quality of maintenance performed on new robots determines how easily they it
can be renovated. Concludes that the market has room for both new and
secondhand robots.
Calibration for offline programming purpose and its expectations
Authors: Quinet J F
Published: May 2004

Examines the background of off‐line programming for robots and the
failure of many simulation robotics programs to become effective industrial
robot programs. Looks at the need for the production cell to be identical to
the simulation model and the questions to be considered for successful
programming. Discusses the development and methods of robot calibration and
the identification of errors. Concludes that with the development of dynamic
control and measurements systems for industrial robot performance it has been
possible to develop efficient methods to calibrate complete robotics cells
under industrial systems.
New accurate home stand position checker for robots
Authors: Gorman Terry , Glew Derek
Published: May 2004

Describes a unit which has been produced to provide accurate independent
position checks on robots or other controlled mechanisms which may suffer
impact, interference or may drift from program path during unsupervised
repetitive work. Significant variation in presetting the range is available.
Outlines how the system, an optical non‐contact mechanism, works.
Concludes with future planned developments of the unit.
Preprogramming complex welds fast
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: May 2004

Describes how the modular bridge building company, Mabey &Johnson, is
using Off‐line programming for work on its newly‐extended
flexible manufacturing system [FMS] welding line, to strike every
arc in exactly the right place with minimum sensing. Looks at the background
and parameters for choosing a modelling system and describes how the RobCad
system programs all the weld seams and how that program is then calibrated to
enable precision robot positioning. Concludes with future plans to move
progressively towards 3‐D computer‐aided design, from which the
3‐D models will be transferred directly into RobCad.
The vision‐guided robot grows up—a look at the new machine
vision technology for robots
Authors: Testa Justin
Published: May 2004

Looks at the move towards integrating robots with highperformance, fully
programmable vision systems. Outlines the problems of traditional
vision‐aided robotics and the advantage of modern machine vision
technology. The latest generation of machine vision systems combine the
capabilities of the “C” program system with graphic
“point‐and Click” application development environments
based on Microsoft Windows: the Checkpoint system. Describes how the
Checkpoint vision systems works and the applications of the new vision guided
robots. Concludes that the new systems now make it possible for users and
system integrators to being the advantages of vision‐guided robotics
to general manufacturing.
Organizational change at Volvo ‐ from the customer perspective
Authors: Kirk Kramer R. , Mina Patrick
Published: May 2004

Outlines, in the form of an interview, a re‐ engineering programme undertaken at Volvo to improve new car sales and delivery practices. Briefly states the extent of the problem which existed and the measures taken to remedy the situation. Describes how the changes were implemented and the new structures which resulted, including a training programme for sales staff. Discusses the results of changes, which were overwhelmingly positive; the barriers which were encountered and the key factors for successful implementation.
Tool changers, collision and force sensing
Authors: Petronis Thomas J.
Published: May 2004

Choosing end‐effectors for robotic applications can be a mind‐boggling task, unless you are familiar with what is available and the appropriate application for each. Presents the XChange Tool Change system, offered by Applied Robotics, which facilitates fast and reliable end‐effector changing. The system has the ability to interface virtually any utility: pneumatics, vacuum, signal level input/output, high voltage, high current electrical power, cooling fluids, hydraulic oil, fibre optics and video signals. With the increasing need for a wider variety of products manufactured in smaller quantities, quick and automatic end‐effector changing is critical.
Water hydraulics – the real world
Authors: Higgins Mike
Published: May 2004

Looks at the potential of water hydraulics as an alternative to more traditional systems and explains the advantages and disadvantages. Provides a number of examples of where water hydraulics is replacing other systems, in particular with the use of Nessie products. Also describes other areas where the use of water hydraulics is on the increase such as oil recovery, fire‐fighting, cheese making, abattoirs and sewerage service companies.
Robots in the moulding shop
Authors: Austin Roger
Published: May 2004

A new pendant controller is one of the results from a 12‐month development programme at Pressflow Automation. Presents three case studies illustrating the different benefits which three plastic moulders have derived from use of robotics.
Review article
Authors: Mitev Nathalie N.
Published: May 2004

Critically reviews and compares the concepts of business process re‐engineering (BPR), which has recently addressed the issue of changing organizations through the use of information technology (IT) and socio‐technical design (STD), which has traditionally been concerned with the matching of social and technical systems, seen as fundamental to the design of computer systems in organizations. Challenges the notion that STD can humanize BPR and argues that, by promoting this association, STD experts isolate such techniques as employee participation and teamwork from wider issues related to changing managerial discourses and economic contexts. BPR is remarkable in that it goes beyond previous managerial discourses such as total quality management, particularly in how it combines IT‐induced change with “soft” ideas such as empowerment and teamwork, therefore reinforcing management control and diluting issues of power relationships. STD specialists have traditionally been dedicated to promoting emancipation and socially responsible choices, and should therefore seriously examine BPR in terms of its theoretical and ethical assumptions and its practical implications.
Information security management (2): guidelines to the management of information technology security (GMITS)
Authors: von Solms Rossouw
Published: May 2004

Information security has become very important in most organizations. To introduce, manage and maintain a high level of information security in an organization calls for a proper management methodology. International Standards Organisation/International Electrotechnical Commission has drafted a multi‐part technical report to provide guidelines to organizations to effectively manage the process of IT security. This paper provides a brief description of the first three parts of this technical report.
Finding new space in the market
Authors: Kippenberger T
Published: May 2004

Suggests six lines to imply that one can find unoccupied territory by looking across the usual boundaries of competition, look across: substitute industries; strategic groups within industries; buyer groups; complementary offerings; the functional/emotional appeal to buyers; and across time. Makes the point that not only small start‐up companies can dart into new market spaces — large companies can also create and re‐create markets.