bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Conditions Associated with Peripheral Employment in Australia
Authors: Harley Bill
Published: May 2004

Aims to subject to empirical scrutiny the claim that peripheral
work is characterized by a range of undesirable characteristics. The
analysis of data from the Australian Workplace Industrial Relations
Survey (AWIRS) clearly shows that there is a link between peripheral
forms of employment and undesirable working conditions in Australian
workplaces. Further, the negative features of peripheral employment
apply regardless of workplace size, sector or industry. In conjunction
with the evidence of the growth of a peripheral workforce and the marked
over‐representation of women in such jobs, supports the argument that
peripheral work contributes to inequality in Australian workplaces.
Promises vs performance: pay devolution to Next Steps executive agencies in the British civil service
Authors: Gagnon Suzanne
Published: May 2004

Under the British Government’s current plan, the devolution of authority for civil service pay will be complete in 1996, with all departments and agencies receiving control over the pay of their employees. The process of pay delegation began some years ago with selected Next Steps executive agencies. What lessons does the progress of the Conservative administration’s pay reform programme hold for the future? In examining the success that the government has had so far with delegation of pay to executive agencies, centres on primary research involving a postal survey of executive agencies and in‐depth interviews with several agency human resources directors. Provides an insight into the shape that pay reform is likely to take as further devolution occurs. Reform is unlikely to be either as rapid, coherent or concerted as the government would like. Concludes that while there is little question that change is occurring, its pace has not kept up with the government’s deadlines, and its form is only partially in line with the government’s stated objectives. Identifies several factors explaining the slow progress, most importantly: the internal inconsistencies among the government’s pay reform objectives; the uncertain environment in which many agencies are operating; agencies’ lack of resources; and a failure to take account of the institutional context.
Competitive tendering in NHS catering: a suitable policy?
Authors: Kelliher Clare
Published: May 2004

Seeks to evaluate the policy of competitive tendering for ancillary services in the National Health Service, by reference to a number of case studies of catering services. Argues that the success of the policy was dependent on certain assumptions being met about the extent of competitive pressure and the potential for savings, largely labour cost savings, to be made. Shows by case studies that these conditions frequently did not occur and hence the policy was flawed. Furthermore, even where these conditions did occur, the evidence shows that a range of other factors influenced the extent to which labour cost savings could be made.
Information in Business: a model of co‐operation
Authors: Towlson Kaye
Published: May 2004

Information in Business, the De Montfort University‐based
information service for business and industry, is offered as a model of
library co‐operation. Sets out the background to the development of this
joint venture between De Montfort University and Leicester County
Council, moving on to the implementation of the contract, service
delivery and service development. Considers management issues involved
with the service development and delivery. Issues covered include
staffing, performance monitoring, communication, strategic development
and service planning, marketing and networking. Where possible, issues
raised are supported by the author′s personal experience. Considers the
future of the service. Concludes that the Information in Business
service is a positive model of library co‐operation, enabling the
maximization of benefits from different public funds. Highlights threats
to the service, i.e. reliance on local government, as a weakness.
Research in library and information science in New Zealand
Authors: Calvert Philip J. , Cullen Rowena J.
Published: May 2004

There are two main centres of library and information science (LIS) research in New Zealand, the Department of Library and Information Studies, at Victoria University of Wellington, and the National Library of New Zealand. They each have a different purpose, but each in its way contributes to a growing body of New Zealand LIS research which is available to inform managers and policy makers locally, and which is finding a wider audience in the international literature. Provides a brief overview of LIS research in New Zealand and discusses early difficulties in developing a research base in New Zealand, recent and current projects in both institutions, and some of the unique features of New Zealand research.
The terminology of planning: part 2
Authors: Marco Guy A.
Published: May 2004

Continues an earlier consideration of the nature of “planning”, and of the main components of plans by addressing the linguistic issue of the “tags” we use to distinguish descriptive principles from normative terminology when analysing and classifying process activities like “planning”. Offers an analysis of the planning process in terms of seven distinct stages and their interrelations. Illustrates good and dubious planning approaches at both conceptual and practical levels.
The human aspects of demerger: a new agenda for research?
Authors: Hoare Simon C. , Cartwright Sue
Published: May 2004

Suggests that research attention has increasingly focused on the human aspects of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), particularly the problem of socio‐cultural integration. Alongside high levels of M & A activity, there has been a growing trend towards the reverse process of demerger and divestment. Like M&As, demerger is a major change process and worthy of research attention. Considers the application of theories and themes developed within the M&A literature to the emerging phenomenon of demerger. Discusses these with reference to the ICI demerger in the early 1990s.
The system of profound knowledge: a revised profile of managerial leadership
Authors: McNary Lisa D.
Published: May 2004

Investigates the underlying principles of W. Edwards Deming’s management theory, the “System of profound knowledge”, to determine whether the managerial leadership properties of this theory reveal distinct profile patterns for Deming and traditional managers. Individuals selected for this study were a random sample of managers from the American Society for Quality Control and the Academy of Management. Statistical analysis revealed distinct profile patterns for Deming managers and traditional (i.e. non‐Deming) managers. The inventory can be used as a management hiring or management development tool with further validation.
Interview with Merle Jacob, adult materials selection specialist, Chicago Public Library
Authors: Cassell Kay Ann
Published: May 2004

Relates an interview with Merle Jacob, an adult materials selection specialist at the Chicago Public Library. Describes the selection process for materials, reference collection, audio‐visual and other areas for the Chicago Public Library and 82 branches of different sizes. Suggests that information retrieval on disk will not exclude the physical book.
The challenges of leadership
Authors: Moss Kanter Rosabeth
Published: May 2004

Rosabeth Moss Kanter holds a chaired professorship as the Class of 1960 Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. Specializing in business strategy, innovation, and the management of strategic and organizational change, Professor Kanter also advises major corporations and governments worldwide. Here, she speaks to Sarah Powell about the challenges of leadership and the importance of nurturing talent.
PowerGen′s Space‐planning Mission
Authors: Allison Suzi
Published: May 2004

Space planning has been central to the design of PowerGen′s new
headquarters near Coventry. Reports on complex computer simulations
which have been used to help design a building which rivals the SAS
building in Stockholm for spatial integration. To make sure that the
building reaches its potential, a set of space‐planning guidelines have
been issued to representatives of the 38 business units which are moving
there in January 1995.
Recent developments in office design
Authors: Stallworth Otto E. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: May 2004

Early in this century, extensive research was carried out regarding the worker in the industrial setting with the physical environment as the focus. In the 1930s, the focus became the social environment. Several developments have recently brought the physical environment into prominence and, in particular, the office as a work setting. The US economy has shifted from production to the provision of information and services, with 80 per cent of the workforce predicted to be in the office work setting by the year 2000, compared with 53 per cent today. The work environment is also changing due to advances in technology. This research is in its infancy; and the relationship of the work setting and behaviour, and how it affects productivity, is said to be complex.The existing data suggest that non‐supportive design has negative effects on work and workers, and design appropriate to the work has positive ones. In fact, many businesses have begun changing their design and organizational cultures with positive results. Only time and more observation can reveal what will result from these changes.
Total quality facilities management: a framework for implementation
Authors: Sui Pheng Low
Published: May 2004

Facilities management is increasingly becoming an important function in the built environment. With development well under way in both the developed and developing countries, the number of buildings and infrastructural facilities which need to be professionally managed and maintained has grown to reach the same level of significance traditionally found in new construction works. However, unlike new construction, facilities management ‐ if it is to be taken within the context of not only property maintenance and management, but also retrofitting, refurbishment and renovation works ‐ involves more risks because of its higher level of uncertainties during the inception, design and construction stages. These uncertainties do not, however, mean that quality standards in facilities management should be compromised. Like new construction works, total quality management (TQM) can likewise help to rationalize and enhance effective facilities management. Proposes to introduce the TQM philosophy to the arena of facilities management and, in the process, suggests a framework to help practitioners implement a total quality facilities management system which is relevant for their organizations.
Outsourcing and TUPE: problems and solutions
Authors: Jeffers Raymond
Published: May 2004

Reviews the question of whether the Transfer of Undertaking (Protection of Employment) Regulations 1978 (TUPE) affect outsourcing and in particular how the parties might cope if TUPE applies. Concludes that, under current judicial interpretation of TUPE, it will most likely apply to typical outsourcing. Thus, parties would be well advised to take contractual protection against the effects of TUPE. Suggests that such protection would include warranties and indemnities together with the appointment of liabilities.
Defining Critical Elements in JIT Implementation
Authors: Zhu Zhiwei , Meredith Paul H. , Makboonprasith Supin
Published: May 2004

Several studies indicate that a JIT implementation process is contingent
and a kind of “do‐it‐yourself‐procedure”. Addresses the issue of JIT
implementation by integrating the findings from recently published
articles from a number of professional journals. The conclusion strongly
supports the notion that a JIT implementation process is contingent in
nature. Despite a great diversity of elements mentioned in the JIT
implementation articles, the quality‐related, the vendor‐related, and
the production‐related practices seem to play an important role in JIT
implementation. Also, there is an increasing number of articles that
specifically deal with the human‐related practices such as communication
and co‐worker relations.
Fracture in concrete specimens of differing scale
Authors: Bolander J.E. , Hikosaka H. , He W.‐J.
Published: May 2004

A planar lattice network of beam elements is used to study the mechanisms of fracture in cement‐based materials. Beam properties are controlled by a nonlinear elastic fracture law which roughly accounts for three‐dimensionality of the material and fracture process. Special attention is given to modeling toughening mechanisms associated with aggregate‐matrix interface failure. The distributions of damage and fracture energy consumption are resolved at the material mesoscale and are shown to depend on strain gradient. An adaptive remeshing procedure is used to reduce computational cost and enable analyses of specimens of significantly differing scale, while keeping the lattice density constant. Larger process zones, higher specific fracture energies, and lower specific peak loads are obtained with increasing specimen size, in agreement with published test results. These computations provide information useful in developing refined macromodels for engineering analyses.
The political embeddedness of international business networks
Authors: Welch Catherine , Wilkinson Ian
Published: May 2004

The concept of “embeddedness” is central to industrial marketing and purchasing (IMP) theories. This paper is concerned with one form of embeddedness, namely the political embeddedness of business networks. Existing IMP literature on political embeddedness is reviewed and four dimensions of political embeddedness identified: political institutions, political actors, the political activities of firms and political resources. Research into each of these dimensions of political embeddedness is extended in this paper by analysing the findings from a longitudinal case study of the networks of an exporting firm. The case contributes to a deeper understanding of the “political embeddedness” concept, and suggests that the interpenetration of marketing and policy exchange is a feature of networks in “politically salient” industries.
Product elimination
Authors: Harness David R.
Published: May 2004

This paper examines product elimination in the UK's financial services industry. The literature review establishes that physical goods elimination theory has only limited application to the financial services sector. A three‐stage methodology is employed to find out how products are eliminated in retail banks, building societies and insurance organisations. A model is formulated that provides an overview of the different stages involved in eliminating a product and how each stage is brought together within a process. It is identified that each stage of elimination is influenced by the extent to which full elimination (terminating production and support liability) can be achieved. This is dependent upon the existence of external barriers – legislative controls, contractual obligations, and internal constraints created by the organisation's desire to maintain customer relationships post‐elimination. By outlining the elimination process and key influences the ability to plan product termination to achieve wider objectives, such as customer retention, should become easier.
Investment risk perceptions
Authors: Diacon Stephen
Published: May 2004

This paper presents the results of a detailed comparison of the perceptions by individual consumers and expert financial advisers of the investment risk involved in various UK personal financial services' products. Factor similarity tests show that there are significant differences between expert and lay investors in the way financial risks are perceived. Financial experts are likely to be less loss averse than lay investors, but are prone to affiliation bias (trusting providers and salesmen more than lay investors do), believe that the products are less complex, and are less cynical and distrustful about the protection provided by the regulators. The traditional response to the finding that experts and non‐experts have different perceptions and understandings about risk is to institute risk communication programmes designed to re‐educate consumers. However, this approach is unlikely to be successful in an environment where individual consumers distrust regulators and other experts.
The communication of social responsibility by US banks
Authors: Peterson Robin T. , Hermans Charles M.
Published: May 2004

This article presents a longitudinal study of social responsibility themes in US bank advertising for the years 1992, 1997 and 2002. Content analysis is used to examine television commercials for socially responsible advertisements. Findings indicate that the communication of social responsibility in television commercials for banks has increased by 7 percent over the time period covered by the study.
Adoption of Internet banking among sophisticated consumer segments in an advanced developing country
Authors: Akinci Serkan , Aksoy Şafak , Atilgan Eda
Published: May 2004

This descriptive study was conducted to develop an understanding of consumers' attitudes and adoption of Internet banking among sophisticated consumers. Based on a random sample of academicians, demographic, attitudinal, and behavioral characteristics of Internet banking (IB) users and non‐users were examined. The analyses revealed significant differences between the demographic profiles and attitudes of users and non‐users. IB users were further investigated, and three sub‐segments were defined according to a set of bank selection criteria. Finally, based on the similarities between various Web‐based bank services, four homogeneous categories of services were defined.
A comparative study of quality management in Taiwan's and China's electronics industry
Authors: Hopkins Shirley A. , Nie Winter , Hopkins Willie E.
Published: May 2004

Assesses differences in the economies of Taiwan and China to determine whether or not perceptions of quality management differences exist among managers of electronic firms in the two countries. Statistical results suggest that these two groups of managers not only differ in how they define quality, they also differ in their beliefs about the relationship between quality management and organizational outcomes, the extent to which quality management is practiced in the firm, and how the quality of their products compares with products produced by competitors in other countries.
HR performance evaluation in the context of TQM
Authors: Soltani E. , Gennard J. , van der Meer R.B. , Williams T.
Published: May 2004

While the concepts of performance evaluation and total quality management (TQM) have been explored in the management literature of the last decades, there has been relatively little work on the particular characteristics that an organisation with a TQM approach to human resource (HR) performance evaluation should adopt. To this end, this paper provides a review of the literature in the area of TQM and HR performance evaluation, in order to establish the context for future empirical research. This study provides a brief overview of the implications of a quality orientation for the evaluation of employee performance. It reveals the main difficulties with the concept of performance evaluation from a quality perspective; and it also examines particular characteristics of performance evaluation that could maximise the effectiveness of HR performance evaluation in organisational environments with a quality orientation. Both the assumptions of TQM and the requirements for HR evaluation are used as a foundation from which to examine the ways in which HR performance evaluation might have changed to integrate TQM requirements. By examining the relevant literature, the main criteria of a TQM‐based HR performance evaluation system are refined and enhanced, thus moving towards a situation in which TQM can drive HR performance evaluation in practice. The results also serve as a guide for the evaluation of the effectiveness of such a system.
The state of quality in logistics: evidence from an emerging Southeast Asian nation
Authors: Sadiq Sohail M. , Sohal Amrik S. , Millen Robert
Published: May 2004

The importance of the logistics function has increased dramatically at many firms as comparative priorities have shifted from production quality to delivery and flexibility. At the same time, however, there have been few comprehensive studies on the implementation of TQM practices in the logistics function. This paper examines the implementation of quality management practices in the logistics function based on a study of 113 Malaysian firms. Findings on the extent to which logistics quality management programs had been implemented, the element of the logistics strategy, the impediments and the extent of quality programs are discussed. The paper concludes with a discussion on the implications.
Economic statistical process control for over‐adjusted process mean
Authors: Yang Su‐Fen , Yang Chung‐Ming
Published: May 2004

An economic adjustment model of a process whose quality can be affected by multiple special causes, resulting in changes of the process mean by incorrect adjustment of the process when it is operating according to its capability. A statistically constrained adjustment model is developed for the economic statistical design of X¯ control chart to control the process mean affected by multiple special causes. The objective is to determine the design parameters of the X¯ control chart, which minimize the total quality control cost. A Markov chain approach is used to derive the model. It is demonstrated that the expressions for the expected cycle time and the expected cycle cost with multiple special causes are easier to obtain by the proposed approach than by extending or adopting that in Collani et al. Application of the model is demonstrated through a numerical example.
Quality revolution: leading the innovation and competitive advantages
Authors: Berawi M.A.
Published: May 2004

Knowledge management (KM) addresses the critical issues of organizational adaptation, survival and competence in a rapidly evolving environment. KM embodies organizational processes that seek a synergistic combination of the data and information processing capabilities of information and communication technologies (ICT), and the creative and innovative capacity of human beings to improve ICT. In that role, knowledge management has the capacity to improve quality management and avoid or minimize losses and weaknesses that result from poor performance as well as increase the competitive level of the company and inability to maximize its survival potential in the global marketplace. To achieve quality, all parties including the clients, company consultants, contractors, entrepreneurs, suppliers, and governing bodies (i.e. all involved stakeholders) must encourage collaboration and commitment to quality. Design‐based organizations have to be quality driven to support healthy growth in today's competitive market. In the march towards globalization (i.e. the one world community) as well as local industries comprising many companies, their design‐based organizations need to have superior quality management and knowledge management capabilities to anticipate changes. Intelligence and knowledge is a form of strategic capital, which can be cultivated, created, stored, managed, retrieved and measured to give competitive advantage. To anticipate the needs of the marketplace, a new system that is called quality value model (QVM) is proposed. QVM is a combination of communication and information technologies (ICT) as well as creative and innovative capabilities of human beings to meet challenges and to develop high‐quality products. Quality is a reflection of the properties in a product that customers use to value and evaluate its economic worth. Furthermore, the mathematical technique within QVM calculates input‐factor changes within the product. This enables companies to be more responsive and aids prediction in respect to change and the management of decision uncertainty.
Sample plans comparisons for shelf life estimation using sensory evaluation scores
Authors: Afonso Freitas Marta , Borges Wagner , Lee Ho Linda
Published: May 2004

Sensory evaluations to determine the shelf life of food products are routinely conducted in food experimentation as a part of each product development program, whether it includes a new product, product improvement or a change in type or specification of an ingredient. In such experiments, trained panelists are asked to judge food attributes by reference to a scale of numbers. The “failure time” associated with a product unit under test is usually defined as the time required to reach a cut‐off point previously defined by the food company. Important issues associated with the planning and execution of this kind of testing are total sampling size, frequency of sample withdrawals, panel design, and statistical analysis of the panel data, to list a few. Different approaches have been proposed for the analysis of this kind of data. In particular, Freitaset al.proposed an alternative model based on a dichotomization of the score data and a Weibull as the underlying distribution for the time to failure. Also, through a simulation study, the bias and mean square error of the estimates obtained for percentiles and fraction defectives were evaluated. These quantities were used to estimate the shelf life. The simulation study used only the same sample plan implemented in the real situation. This paper focuses on the planning issues associated with these experiments. Sample plans are contrasted and compared in a simulation study, through the use of the approach proposed by Freitaset al.. The simulation results showed that, in general, one can get results much more precise and with smaller bias with a shorter follow‐up time, allocating more panelists to each evaluation time.
The use of information technology in training human resources
Authors: Gascó José L. , Llopis Juan , Reyes González M.
Published: May 2004

This paper addresses the influence of information technology in human resources management (HRM) and specifically on training policy through the experience of a Spanish telecommunications firm, Telefonica. The characteristics of the training model designed by this firm to face new environments is considered and the technologies used, the key actions, the disadvantages and success factors are detected in trying to grow an E‐learning company. Success factors in training policy are identified. These include flexibility in time management for training; active participation by trainers; the establishment of control mechanisms that ensures training occurs; the creation of quality content; the promotion of interactive elements among trainers, students and with each other; the use of standardised and developed technologies and gradual implementation. Objectives of the company for the future are to maintain progress in the use of E‐learning as a way of adapting the training process to the new E‐business culture.
A quantitative study of factors affecting learner acceptance of a computer‐based training support tool
Authors: Dale Wagner G. , Flannery Daniele D.
Published: May 2004

This study identifies and empirically tests factors that may influence learners' use of a computer‐based training support system (TSS). The areas of research and theory were drawn from human‐computer interaction, information and business management, and adult education. The factors suggested in the literature that may affect learner's use of a TSS were developed in an instrument using 12 subscales. Four hundred and forty six government employees responded to the survey instrument. Multiple regression was used to test the factors that influenced the employee's use of the TSS and the relationships among the factors. Implications of the findings for further research and for human resource development managers are discussed.
Employees' pre‐implementation attitudes and perceptions to e‐learning
Authors: Vaughan Kirsty , MacVicar Anna
Published: May 2004

E‐learning is a global phenomenon and is central to many industries as an additional method of training that complements more traditional methods of learning. In this paper, the practice of a blended approach adopted by an anonymised large multinational banking organisation is presented as a case study. E‐learning is in its infancy within this organisation with pilots taking place in their overseas branches. However, questions arise as to whether adopting overseas implementation approaches will work in their UK branches. Are the implementation/change management approaches compatible with the UK culture and technology infrastructure? This paper investigates the implementation of e‐learning by this particular company, including the pre‐implementation attitudes and perceptions of employees. The findings are discussed together with the implications for research and practice.
University continuing education
Authors: Osborne Michael , Oberski Iddo
Published: May 2004

Continuing policy initiatives at both National and European levels emphasise the need to increase participation in higher education (HE) through more flexible delivery. One of the key elements of flexible delivery is seen to be the use of communication and information technologies (C&IT). These technologies clearly have the potential to reach a much wider student body, irrespective of geographical and/or social limitations. We briefly explore the role of C&IT in Universities and argue that its use is far less ubiquitous than predicted. We then explore the impact of C&IT on pedagogy in HE as well as on the organisation of teaching and learning, with a particular emphasis on delivery to small companies. We conclude that the current use of C&IT in HE is likely to continue to confirm the already existing gap between those with and those without access to these technologies and predict that the role of multinational corporations in education is likely to increase.
Online learning
Authors: Cameron Heather , Limberger Jacqui
Published: May 2004

Faced with a unique problem of providing cross‐cultural awareness training on a continuing basis, Griffith University, located in Brisbane, Queensland developed an innovative program to meet the challenges it faced. A key strategy in the University's Indigenous Recruitment Strategy was to establish a cross‐cultural awareness program sensitising university staff to employment matters affecting indigenous Australians. The reality of developing, implementing and sustaining such a program meant that factors that operate in any large organisation, particularly where flexibility in releasing staff to participate in staff development programs is limited, were particularly problematic. The end product, “Please Explain: Indirect Discrimination in the Workplace”, has translated the concepts of cross‐cultural awareness, traditionally expressed through verbal means, into a staff development resource accessible in multiple formats: print, online, video and audio. The project is an excellent example of how unique solutions can be found to tackle seemingly insurmountable problems, and of how the completely different arenas of information communication technology, staff development, cross‐cultural awareness and anti‐discrimination training can come together in synergistic reality.
E‐learning for SMEs
Authors: Roffe Ian
Published: May 2004

E‐learning is such an attractive opportunity for training providers to reconfigure delivery and support that it presents compelling reasons to engage with the practice. A broad range of provision is therefore available for every type of market segment, including small firms. Sustaining a competitive advantage from a host of offers is a practical challenge for providers. In many industries, competitive advantage lies in the value of intangibles presented by an enterprise. In this paper, dimensions of perceived value are examined in the context of delivery to SMEs. Competences for a training provider can be grouped into specific operational and system competences of value assurance, enhancement and innovation.
Public workstation security: using operating systems and hardware tricks
Authors: Brakel Garvin
Published: May 2004

Presents the security experiences of Spokane public library, which operates a client/server‐based wide area network of 200 PCs and four servers. Outlines its main security provisions looking particularly at system configuation and concludes that, whilst their solutions are inexpensive, they are labour intensive during the set‐up but have been reasonably successful to date.
Decentralized account management in a library consortium: a report of HSLC’s implemenation of Guardian
Authors: Wagner Anita S. , Simon Alan C. , Pitchon Cindy A. , Gormley Dennis J.
Published: May 2004

Presents a case study of the Health Sciences Libraries Consortium in Philadelphia using Ovid Technologies’ search system, database and Web gateway. Considers the authentication and authorization environment and the successful use of the program Guardian. Outlines further developments in this area as the system is upgraded.
Government Resources on the Web: Will It Change Public Services?
Authors: Wilson Rita L. , York Grace A.
Published: May 2004

The Documents Center Web site is designed to fill two major missions. It serves as a reference tool for answering in‐person, telephone, and e‐mail questions asked of the Documents Center staff and as a bibliographic instruction platform for teaching library research skills to graduate and undergraduate students. The Web site has dramatically changed information delivery at the Documents Center, suggesting the need for new statistical measurement standards, a reallocation of staff time, and active library marketing strategies.
Geographic information systems and the New York State Library: mapping new pathways for library service
Authors: Strasser Theresa C.
Published: May 2004

The New York State Library in Albany hosts the New York State GIS Clearinghouse, and employs hands‐on geographic information systems technology as an enhancement to its reference services. Both GIS initiatives involve new social alliances in bringing the benefits of spatial data use to New Yorkers. This article describes both operations, with an emphasis on the person‐to‐person services of librarians to our user communities.
The development of standards of good practice for boards of
directors
Authors: Dulewicz Victor , MacMillan Keith , Herbert Peter
Published: May 2004

Explains the model which underlies the Institute of Directors′
Standards of Good Practice for Boards of Directors produced in
association with Henley Management College. These standards were derived
from an extensive, rigorous research and consultation process over a
period of two‐and‐a‐half years involving over 1,000 directors. The model
consists of three major parts: organizing and running the board;
personal competences and knowledge; and the tasks of the board which are
supported by indicators of good practice.
Beyond TQM Programmes
Authors: Spector Bert , Beer Michael
Published: May 2004

The failure rate of TQM interventions exceeds 75 per cent. Contends that
it is missteps in the implementation of TQM – and other associated change
efforts such as process re‐engineering – that undermine the likelihood
that the intervention will contribute in a significant and lasting way
to the competitive effectiveness of the organization. Using three case
examples of TQM efforts, suggests that the implementation process must
succeed in unhooking the organization from its traditional hierarchical
and functional moorings and reattach it to horizontal, cross‐functional
processes. To do this, the intervention process must address six
distinct but interconnected stages of unhooking and reattachment and do
so in a logical, sequential way.
Diversities, Differences and Authors′ Voices
Authors: Boje David M. , Rosile Grace Ann
Published: May 2004

Provides a postmodern view of consultants′ experiences with diversity.
Calls into question the relationship between what becomes a “diversity
category” and the other differences that remain background. Looks at the
political and economic system that sustains the categories of diversity
in public housing consulting. Advocates a postmodern approach which
includes the authors′ voices and the voices of the residents in the
writing of organizational change.
Telling changes: from narrative family therapy to organizational change and development
Authors: Barry David
Published: May 2004

Explores how developments in the ground‐breaking field of narrative family therapy might be applied to organizational change efforts. After an introductory discussion of some of narrative therapy’s key orientations and practices (e.g. postmodern notions of language and power, influence mapping, problem externalization, unique outcomes, audiencing), an extended example is given where a narrative approach was used to effect change in a health‐care organization. The case is used to generate a series of research questions and directions.
International strategies of corporate culture change: emulation, consumption and hybridity
Authors: Westwood R.I. , Kirkbride P.S.
Published: May 2004

The paper describes the symbolic representation of corporate culture within the context of a Hong Kong Chinese company in the broader context of strategic responses to the international intersection of organisation and management systems. This symbolic representation incorporates and indexes aspects of a Western culturally constituted world that is largely alien to one important stakeholder group, namely, the Chinese organisation membership. Such a disjuncture engenders an inhibition to an effective reading of the corporate culture message, so weakening the effect of the intended change. The paper discusses three interlocking themes. First, the issue of the emulation of the corporate culture notion, as conceived and formulated in the USA, in other cultural settings. Second, a consideration of a multi‐stakeholder perspective on corporate culture, in which it is considered as a strategic move with respect to externalities rather than the internal system. Third, the intersection of management systems which results in mutual inter‐penetrations, thus engendering responses of appropriation, adaptation and hybridity rather than merely imposition or assimilation. The author feels such interactive aspects of international business and the associated responses are in need of greater attention.
Applying the UASB reactor to treat sewage sludge containing sulphides
Authors: Nasr Fayza A. , Abdel Wahaab Rifaat
Published: May 2004

About 50 epidemiological reports about possible associations between cancer morbidity and exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) were published between 1979 and 1994. The majority of them (60‐75 per cent) documented a slight (1.5 to twofold) but significant increase in the incidence of certain rare forms of neoplasms (leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours). A limited support for carcinogenic potencies of EMFs is provided from cellular studies, but the effects appear to be generally weak, transient and difficult to replicate. Concludes that the available evidence associating cancer and EMF exposure is too tenuous to be convincing but too consistent to be ignored. Further progress needs better quantification of exposure levels and conditions, evaluation of dose‐effect relationships and liability to confounding carcinogenic factors that may influence morbidity rates in the investigated populations.
Property investment in peripheral regions
Authors: Adair Alastair , Berry Jim , McGreal Stanley
Published: May 2004

Suggests that capital investments normally flow to economic sectors
and regions which produce the highest returns within certain risk
parameters. Therefore geographical areas perceived to be peripheral to
the core economy of a certain country, region or city suffer when
attracting institutional investment. Investigates investment flows into
real estate in two peripheral economies: Northern Ireland and the
Republic of Ireland. Analyses data from the Investment Property Databank
(IDP) and market participants in terms of regional and sectoral
performance, and assesses institutional investors′ perceptions of
investment activity in Ireland as a peripheral European region. Also
compares investment performance of institutional property holdings in
Ireland to returns in the UK.
The inflation‐hedging characteristics of UK property
Authors: Barkham R.J. , Ward C.W.R. , Henry O.T.
Published: May 2004

Presents results of an investigation of the inflation‐hedging characteristics of UK property. Evaluates the various methods of decomposing inflation into its “expected” and “unexpected” components, using new time series data on inflation expectations produced by a questionnaire survey of informed market participants. Utilizes the power and suitability of causality and cointegration analysis to examine the relationship between inflation and property returns. Analyses the sensitivity of the results about the hedging capabilities of property to the removal valuation induced “smoothing” from property returns. Concludes that property is best seen as offering hedging characteristics that are only revealed in the long run.
Taxation allowances
Authors: Berry James N. , Stanley McGreal W.
Published: May 2004

Examines the application of taxation breaks in stimulating investment into property development. Examples are drawn from Dublin and Berlin to highlight how accelerated depreciation allowances have been utilized in different market sectors. Emphasis is placed on similarities and differences in the regulations regarding use of taxation‐based incentives. Outcomes of the policy are evaluated including the risk of over‐supply of office floorspace in the medium term and the re‐targeting of incentives towards residential development. Argues that the experience drawn from each city provides interesting parallel and contrasting outcomes.
Entrapment – Every Manager’s Nightmare
Authors: Plant John L.
Published: May 2004

Suggests that one reason for the failure of many businesses during the
first ten years could be due to management inflexibility. It has been
discovered that escalating commitment and “blinkered vision” have been the
cause of many disasters. Suggests that the use of devil′s advocacy may
provide a solution.
How to define management: a modular approach
Authors: Shenhar Aaron J. , Renier J.
Published: May 2004

Applies a modular approach to the definition of management. Includes ten separate definitions and modules in an attempt to answer the relatively sweeping question of what management is all about. Various parts of the model could be used for different purposes. First, it may help managers understand the complexities of their job in various situations and identify areas of strengths and weaknesses. Second, the model may assist teachers and educators in planning programmes of management development.
Women home‐based business owners: insights from comparative analyses
Authors: Loscocco Karyn , Smith‐Hunter Andrea
Published: May 2004

Recent research on women business owners de‐emphasizes home‐based business ownership, despite the fact that home‐based ownership is on the rise. This study uses data from the Upstate New York Small Business Project to compare women engaged in home‐based businesses to their counterparts, who locate their businesses outside the home. The results indicate that the women engaged in home‐based business ownership experience less work to family conflict than their counterparts. Yet their businesses enjoy less economic success than those run by their non‐home‐based counterparts. This suggests that home‐based ownership may be a good option only for women who do not have strong financial needs.
Giving back: women's entrepreneurial philanthropy
Authors: Oppedisano Jeannette
Published: May 2004

Traditionally, the concept of entrepreneurship included a for‐profit bottom line. Recently, however, researchers have begun to explore an adaptation of this model called “social entrepreneurship”; that is, creating organizations for the greater good of a community, region, nation, or the world. These entrepreneurs use money that they made or inherited to establish organizations from a missionary and visionary posture. This is an arena where women have had significant impact, yet little has been written to celebrate their contributions. The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of such philanthropy, to suggest where this social ethic might have had its origins, and to provide samples of women who have been entrepreneurial in their social commitment. Suggestions for future research on women's entrepreneurial philanthropy will also be made.
How solution focused support helps women through work‐home conflict
Authors: McKenna Jim , Mackey Jones Wendy
Published: May 2004

While work‐home conflict has well‐established negative outcomes, few studies explore how this might be resolved. This study explored the delivery and outcomes of a three‐session workplace intervention delivered by a non‐specialist counsellor to women with high work‐home conflict, using solution‐focused therapy (SFT). Transcripts from the counselling sessions provided the key data for the study. Participants had unique combinations of conflict, and unique levels of self‐assessed success in developing and sticking to their solutions. These perspectives are spillover (home or work affect each other), segmenting (demands are ring‐fenced in one domain) and compensation (demands in one domain are balanced with contributions to the other). Although the specific solutions generated may not be new to “outsiders”, they were to these women, and were unlikely to have been undertaken without the intervention.
Prostate cancer: men's health and their prostate
Authors: Wilkes Lesley , Cioffi Jane , Ho Sarah
Published: May 2004

This study aimed to describe men's knowledge of prostate cancer and the factors associated with these knowledge levels at selected regions in Western Sydney. The study was a descriptive, quantitative design using a postal survey of men over 40 years of age. A questionnaire consisting of 19 items that addressed areas of knowledge related to prostate cancer was used. The men in this study needed more information about risk factors for prostate cancer, screening techniques and treatment regimens and their side effects. This study has shown that if men are to make informed decisions about prostate cancer screening, it is important to have some form of decision aid on prostate cancer screening available to them.
Cultural clashes in reproductive health information in schools
Authors: Mbananga Nolwazi
Published: May 2004

This paper reports on an empirical study that investigated the content of and perceptions about reproductive health information among school teachers and learners in a rural area of South Africa. Qualitative methods were used to assess the dissemination and acceptability of and perceptions about information related to HIV/AIDS, sexuality, family planning, sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive cancers. The data highlight the cultural incongruity among teachers, learners, family and the health sectors. It is argued that this incongruity undermines the objectives of such reproductive health information. The theory of the social construction of reality is applied to envisage an approach that will overcome cultural incongruities. There may well be other areas in South Africa which have similar experiences, but this study is not intended as a general reflection of a South African situation. None‐the‐less, important findings that may impact on school policy have emerged.