bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valuing a Multiplicity of Views
Authors: Dunckley Patrice , Roff-Wexler Suzanne
Published: May 2011

This chapter provides perspective and practical techniques that individuals and organizations can use to maximize knowledge transfer efforts. It illustrates the importance of using informal sources of information sharing to create a complete picture. The authors assert that using the traditional formal channels of transfer can leave holes when attempting to share the whole. Overall, the chapter offers practical, easily executable solutions that individuals can apply and that leaders can teach to fill the gaps that often go unnoticed. Influenced by sense making, storytelling, psychology, and visual mapping, the authors offer tools and provide coaching for using the tools, contained in text boxes throughout the chapter. The intent is to both introduce concepts and make them straightforward for the reader to implement.
Collaborative Classification for Group-Oriented Organization of Search Results
Authors: Nakata Keiichi , Singh Amrish
Published: May 2011

In this chapter the authors examine the use of collaborative classification to support social information retrieval by organizing search results. It subscribes to the view that the activity of collaborative classification can be characterized by top-down and bottom-up approaches, both in terms of the nature of concept classification and the process of classification development. Two approaches, collaborative indexing and search result classification based on shared classification schemes, are described and compared. It suggests that by allowing open access to classification development tools to generate shared classification schemes, which in turn become collaborative artifacts, cooperating user groups will generate their own coordination mechanisms that are not dependent on the system itself.
A Case Study of Use-Centered Descriptions
Authors: Butterworth Richard
Published: May 2011

This chapter argues the case that there is a mismatch between current meta-data standards for the description of archival holdings and what many users actually want to know about a collection. Standard archival descriptions objectively describe what is in a collection, whereas users wish to know what they can do with a collection. It is argued that matching users’ research questions to library resources that could help answer those questions is a crucial social role played by librarians, archivists and other front line staff. However placing descriptions of what is in a collection online for users to search directly risks disintermediating the users from library staff. ‘Use centred descriptions’ are proposed as a way of systematically describing what can be done with a collection, and are, in effect, an encoding of library staff’s knowledge about what can be done with a collection. Its is therefore argued that use centred descriptions repair some of dissintermediation gaps caused by putting collection descriptions online. A theoretical motivation for use centred descriptions is presented by showing how Heaney’s (1999) analytic model of collections, which underlies the Research Support Libraries Programme (RSLP) collection description standard, only addresses finding and identifying resources. We augment this model to address selecting resources from a range of possibilities and show how use centred descriptions stem from this augmentation. A case study is presented demonstrating the experience of developing a set of use centred descriptions for the University of London as part of a project to encourage wider access to their archival holdings. The project had necessarily limited aims, and therefore conclusions are drawn about the viability of use centred descriptions in wider domains.
The Ethics of Social Information Retrieval
Authors: Luyt Brendan , Lee Chu Keong
Published: May 2011

In this chapter we discuss some of the social and ethical issues associated with social information retrieval. Using the work of Habermas we argue that social networking is likely to exacerbate already disturbing trends towards the fragmentation of society and a corresponding decline reduction in social diversity. Such a situation is not conducive to developing a healthy, democratic society. Following the tradition of critical theorists of technology, we conclude with a call for responsible and aware technological design with more attention paid to the values embedded in new technological systems.
Electronic Memory
Authors: Handzic Meliha
Published: May 2011

The book starts with an introduction to theoretical foundations of knowledge management concepts, proceeds with a series of empirical studies on the role of technology in knowledge management, followed by studies of socially orientated knowledge management solutions. The book ends with the discussion of major issues and challenges for knowledge management research and practice. With its integrated and systematic approach, the book makes a small but important step in helping individuals and organisations to get an objective and complete picture of the role of social and technical initiatives in knowledge management based on formal and sound empirical research. More importantly, the book shows that the impact of various initiatives is highly contingent upon the context in which the knowledge is generated, transferred, and used. This may help managers to choose more suitable solutions to turn their intangible assets into tangible outcomes.
Organisational Culture
Authors: Handzic Meliha
Published: May 2011

The book starts with an introduction to theoretical foundations of knowledge management concepts, proceeds with a series of empirical studies on the role of technology in knowledge management, followed by studies of socially orientated knowledge management solutions. The book ends with the discussion of major issues and challenges for knowledge management research and practice. With its integrated and systematic approach, the book makes a small but important step in helping individuals and organisations to get an objective and complete picture of the role of social and technical initiatives in knowledge management based on formal and sound empirical research. More importantly, the book shows that the impact of various initiatives is highly contingent upon the context in which the knowledge is generated, transferred, and used. This may help managers to choose more suitable solutions to turn their intangible assets into tangible outcomes.
Incentives and Rewards
Authors: Handzic Meliha
Published: May 2011

The book starts with an introduction to theoretical foundations of knowledge management concepts, proceeds with a series of empirical studies on the role of technology in knowledge management, followed by studies of socially orientated knowledge management solutions. The book ends with the discussion of major issues and challenges for knowledge management research and practice. With its integrated and systematic approach, the book makes a small but important step in helping individuals and organisations to get an objective and complete picture of the role of social and technical initiatives in knowledge management based on formal and sound empirical research. More importantly, the book shows that the impact of various initiatives is highly contingent upon the context in which the knowledge is generated, transferred, and used. This may help managers to choose more suitable solutions to turn their intangible assets into tangible outcomes.
Codification or Personalisation
Authors: Handzic Meliha
Published: May 2011

The book starts with an introduction to theoretical foundations of knowledge management concepts, proceeds with a series of empirical studies on the role of technology in knowledge management, followed by studies of socially orientated knowledge management solutions. The book ends with the discussion of major issues and challenges for knowledge management research and practice. With its integrated and systematic approach, the book makes a small but important step in helping individuals and organisations to get an objective and complete picture of the role of social and technical initiatives in knowledge management based on formal and sound empirical research. More importantly, the book shows that the impact of various initiatives is highly contingent upon the context in which the knowledge is generated, transferred, and used. This may help managers to choose more suitable solutions to turn their intangible assets into tangible outcomes.
Prerequisite Conditions for Commercializing
Authors: Higuchi Toru , Troutt Marvin
Published: May 2011

This chapter focuses on the period that precedes commercialization of the product and is based on the VCR case study. Only one or a few companies can succeed, usually after many attempts, in developing a sufficiently excellent product to achieve the dominant design. In this chapter, first, the time until the emergence of the dominant design is separated into three parts: the embryo period, the fetus period, and the birth period. Next, the basic requirements for achieving commercial success are discussed. It is very important for any new category of products to satisfy all the minimum consumer requirements rather than to improve a critical factor because those products which can not satisfy some minimum requirements are defective and will not diffuse widely. To complement the discussion in this chapter, the movement of Sony and JVC in this period and the emergence of the video software industry are explained.
Struggle for De Facto Standards
Authors: Higuchi Toru , Troutt Marvin
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, we discuss the struggle for the de facto standard based on the Betamax versus VHS case in the late 1970s. In the middle of the 1970s, Sony and JVC introduced Betamax and VHS, both of which satisfied minimum requirements for commercialization. Although Sony had a first mover advantage in the market, JVC and VHS group turned the face about by 1980. The capabilities for the first Betamax and VHS, SL-6300 and HR-3300, were almost equal. The first VHS excelled the first Betamax in the lighter weight, the longer recording time, the compatibility. The consumers preferred HR- 3300 because of the longer maximal recording time to videotape the movies, the baseball games, and the football games. Most videotaped programs by all VHS machines can playback except for a few models. On the other hand, Sony made a disconnection to the first Betamax when they launched Beta II in 1977. In addition, JVC formed the VHS group to catch up with Sony. This group worked effectively to enhance the product capability and the sales promotion.
Convergence of Facilities in Low Cost Operation Areas
Authors: Higuchi Toru , Troutt Marvin
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, the convergence of manufacturing facilities is discussed. Very little room is left for the differentiation of products in the late standardized stage. Although companies source globally to reduce the cost, they should cut down their cost even further. In addition, the demand for a product begins to decline sharply at the end of the life cycle because of the saturation of the market or the emergence of alternative products. As a result, companies should make the most of economies of scale in a low cost operation area. Companies converge their manufacturing facilities into low cost operation areas or withdraw completely from the market.
Global M-Logistics in North America, Europe, and Asia
Authors: Teuteberg Frank
Published: May 2011

Mobile logistics (m-logistics) may be seen as an enabler for efficient and effective mobile commerce (m-commerce). Recent developments in mobile computing and communication standards and technologies allow more flexible operations and real-time monitoring in a supply chain. This chapter explores and examines the current status of m-logistics in North America, Europe and Asia (mainly China, South Korea and Japan). The chapter focuses on global m-logistics as an essential function and key factor in efficient and effective global m-commerce. Diffusion and adoption models as well as factors influencing the diffusion and adoption of standards and technologies in m-logistics are discussed. Our comparative study shows that all of the investigated regions have begun to adopt next-generation mobile logistics standards and technologies.
A Diffusion Model for Communication Standards in Supply Networks
Authors: Schwind Michael , Stockheim Tim , Weiss Kilian
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents a simulation framework that analyzes the diffusion of communication standards in different supply networks. We show that agents’ decisions depend on potential cost reduction, pressure from members of their communication network, and implementation costs of their communication standards. Besides focusing on process-specific market power distributions, the impact of relationship stability and process connectivity are analyzed as determinants of the diffusion of communication standards within different supply network topologies. In this context, two real-world scenarios, from the automotive and paper and publishing industries, are used as examples for different network topologies. The results support the thesis that increasing relationship dynamics and process connectivity lead to decreasing competition of communication standards. In certain circumstances, local communication clusters appear along the value chain, enabling these clusters to preserve their globally inferior standardization decision.
Pragmatic-Driven Approach for Service-Oriented Analysis and Design
Authors: Gustas Remigijus
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents a pragmatic-driven approach for service-oriented information system analysis and design. Its uniqueness is in exploiting a design foundation for graphical description of the semantic and pragmatic aspects of business processes that is based on the service-oriented principles. Services are viewed as dynamic subsystems. Their outputs depend not only on inputs, but on a service state as well. Intentions of business process experts are represented in terms of a set of pragmatic dependencies, which are driving the overall system engineering process. It is demonstrated how pragmatic aspects are mapped to conceptual representations, which define the semantics of business design. In contrast to the traditional system development methodologies, the main difference of the service-oriented approach is that it integrates the static and dynamic aspects into one type of diagram. Semantics of computation independent models are expressed by graphical specifications of interactions between service providers and service consumers. Semantic integrity control between static and dynamic dependencies of business processes is a one of the major benefits of service-oriented analysis and design process. It is driven by pragmatic descriptions, which are defined in terms of goals, problems and opportunities.
The Practice of Participatory Enterprise Modelling
Authors: Persson Anne
Published: May 2011

This chapter discusses competency aspects of participatory EnterpriseModelling. It presents the two main ways of working when it comes to involving stakeholders in the modelling process, the participatory and the non-participatory and then focuses on the participatory approach. The author describes the desired competencies of domain experts and method experts, two of the most crucial actors in the participatory modelling process. The author argues that in spite that competency is one of the most critical success factors in modelling it is an overlooked topic in modelling research. The chapter is illustrated with interview quotes from an interview study that the author has carried out.
ERP Usage in Practice
Authors: Jones Mary C. , Young Randall
Published: May 2011

This study presents the results of an exploratory study of Fortune 1000 firms and their enterprise resource planning (ERP) usage, as well as benefits and changes they have realized from ERP. The study empirically examines ERP in these organizations to provide insight into various aspects that firms can use to evaluate how they are managing their ERP systems. Findings provide information about functionality implemented, extent to which benefits are realized, extent of ERP-related organizational changes firms have realized, and the way firms measure ERP success. The study also addresses the extent to which various types of ERP software have been implemented and whether there is a relationship between type of software and benefits. Finally, it examines ERP-enabled change in light of organizational configuration.
Understanding the "Mommy Tracks"
Authors: Quesenberry Jeria L. , Trauth Eileen M. , Morgan Allison J.
Published: May 2011

Despite the recent growth in the number of women in the American labor force, women are still underrepresented in the IT workforce. Key among the factors that account for this under-representation is balancing work-family issues. This article presents a framework for analyzing work-family balance from a field study of women employed in the American IT workforce. The findings are examined through the lens of the individual differences theory of gender and IT to show the range of ways in which work-family considerations influence women’s IT career decisions. The framework is used to support the theoretical argument that women exhibit a range of decisions regarding career and parenthood: the non-parent, the working parent, the back-on-track parent, and the off-the-track parent. These findings illustrate an identifiable theme that crosses geographical regions and timeframes; societal messages are complex and difficult to digest and are processed in different ways by different women, yet they contribute to the decisions women make about their professional and personal lives.
Application of Uncertain Variables to Knowledge-Based Resource Distribution
Authors: Orski Donat
Published: May 2011

The chapter concerns a class of systems composed of operations performed with the use of resources allocated to them. In such operation systems, each operation is characterized by its execution time depending on the amount of a resource allocated to the operation. The decision problem consists in distributing a limited amount of a resource among operations in an optimal way, that is, in finding an optimal resource allocation. Classical mathematical models of operation systems are widely used in computer supported projects or production management, allowing optimal decision making in deterministic, well-investigated environments. In the knowledge-based approach considered in this chapter, the execution time of each operation is described in a nondeterministic way, by an inequality containing an unknown parameter, and all the unknown parameters are assumed to be values of uncertain variables characterized by experts. Mathematical models comprising such two-level uncertainty are useful in designing knowledge-based decision support systems for uncertain environments. The purpose of this chapter is to present a review of problems and algorithms developed in recent years, and to show new results, possible extensions and challenges, thus providing a description of a state-of-the-art in the field of resource distribution based on the uncertain variables.
An Ontological Representation of Competencies as Codified Knowledge
Authors: Sanchez-Alonso Salvador , Frosch-Wilke Dirk
Published: May 2011

In current organizations, the models of knowledge creation include specific processes and elements that drive the production of knowledge aimed at satisfying organizational objectives. The knowledge life cycle (KLC) model of the Knowledge Management Consortium International (KMCI) provides a comprehensive framework for situating competencies as part of the organizational context. Recent work on the use of ontologies for the explicit description of competency-related terms and relations can be used as the basis for a study on the ontological representation of competencies as codified knowledge, situating those definitions in the KMCI lifecycle model. In this chapter, we discuss the similarities between the life cycle of knowledge management (KM) and the processes in which competencies are identified and assessed. The concept of competency, as well as the standard definitions for this term that coexist nowadays, will then be connected to existing KLC models in order to provide a more comprehensive framework for competency management in a wider KM framework. This paper also depicts the framework’s integration into the KLC of the KMCI in the form of ontological definitions.
Survey on the Application of Economic and Market Theory for Grid Computing
Authors: Xie Xia , Huang Jin , Wu Song , Jin Hai , Koh Melvin , Song Jie , See Simon
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, we present a survey on some of the commercial players in the Grid industry, existing research done in the area of market-based Grid technology and some of the concepts of dynamic pricing model that we have investigated. In recent years, it has been observed that commercial companies are slowly shifting from owning their own IT assets in the form of computers, software and so forth, to purchasing services from utility providers. Technological advances, especially in the area of Grid computing, have been the main catalyst for this trend. The utility model may not be the most effective model and the price still needs to be determined at the point of usage. In general, market-based approaches are more efficient in resource allocations, as it depends on price adjustment to accommodate fluctuations in the supply and demand. Therefore, determining the price is vital to the overall success of the market.
International Reserves Accumulation
Authors: Gapen Michael , Papaioannou Michael
Published: May 2011

This paper examines the global implications from recent reserve accumulation in Asia. Advances in information technology and closer integration of world markets have complicated economic policymaking by increasing countries’ vulnerability to capital account crises and introducing new channels of risk transmission. To safeguard against these developments, many countries accumulated unprecedented levels of international reserves. Current account deficits in some industrial countries have supported such reserve accumulation, in particular for Asian countries that have promoted export-led growth underpinned by competitive exchange rates. Asian economies have been willing to absorb the cost of reserve accumulation rather than adjusting their exchange rate levels. This strategy, however, has increased the likelihood of protectionist measures from abroad, which could lead to contractions in trade and output. Moreover, these dynamics may transition to a generalized real appreciation of the major Asian currencies, while mounting pressure for a reduction of the U.S. fiscal deficit to sustainable levels.
Information Technology Industry Development and the Knowledge Economy
Authors: Dor Phillip Ein , Myers Michael , Raman K. S.
Published: May 2011

It is generally accepted that knowledge has become a third major factor of production, in addition to the traditional factors—labor and capital. Information technology production is a significant factor in the knowledge economy both because it is a major enabler of that economy and because it is itself highly knowledge intensive. Many countries around the world are looking for ways to promote the development of the knowledge economy, and information technology industries in particular. An important question is to what extent—and how—small developed countries might succeed in this endeavor.This study suggests a modified and more comprehensive version of the Ein-Dor et al. (1997) model of IT (information technology) industry success in small developed countries. Whereas the earlier model of IT industry success was based solely on the macro-economic theory of Grossman and Helpman (1991), the revised model suggested here incorporates Romer’s (1990) work in New Growth economics. A significant advance over earlier work in this area is the use of both longitudinal and time slice data. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the IT industry in four countries over a five-year period: Finland, Israel, New Zealand and Singapore. It analyses some changes that occurred over the period 1994 through 1998 and thus provides a reasonably comprehensive picture of the factors affecting the production of IT in these small developed countries. Our study reveals that four of the five endogenous variables studied have a close relationship to the development of IT industries in small developed countries. These variables are research and development, technological infrastructure, firm strategies, and capital availability. On the other hand, domestic IT use does not seem to be a major factor in IT industry development. Our analysis thus largely supports the more comprehensive model of IT industry success. These findings should be of interest to both researchers and policy makers seeking to develop the knowledge economy and information technology industries in particular.
International Institute for Knowledge Management
Authors: Paraki Jayanth
Published: May 2011

Life educates and education is life is correct in general, but, when a formal system of education is organized, society selects from all those cultural experiences to which the child is exposed those aspects of its culture which it regards as most valuable for its own coherence and survival. The power of Information Technology should be harnessed to plan, design and execute projects that address the United Nations Millennium Development Goals- especially poverty reduction and reduction of child mortality and promote sustainable development to improve the quality of life in the developing world. In the rest of the chapter I will highlight some of the global problems, issues and ongoing efforts to solve some of the problems and justify the need for an International Institute for Knowledge Management to specifically focus on the UN Millennium Development Goals.
E-Learning Implementation and Its Diverse Effect
Authors: Issac Biju , Mering Jasmine , Chiong Raymond , Jacob Seibu Mary , Then Patrick
Published: May 2011

The rapid growth of technological advances in recent years has opened a completely new dimension to the progresses in education and training. The emergence of e-learning has created not only business and educational opportunities, but also significantly improved the standard of the society. This chapter explores into the implementation of e-learning and its impact on a community, similar to a university or corporate setup. To this aim, a brief introduction into e-learning technology and an example of using Blackboard Learning System are brought forth, along with some critical success factors. Projecting the e-learning advantages, along with the digital library concepts, the economic benefits of such implementation are highlighted. The thought of discussion then moves to the perspective of students and teachers on e-learning. As the trend in technological world is moving towards mobility, the wireless e-learning perception is also conferred. In the concluding remarks, the e-learning implementation is noted as a positive endeavor to boost the economic growth.
Potential Challenges and Benefits of Information Technology and Economic Development in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunawardana Kennedy D.
Published: May 2011

This chapter discusses the potential challenges and Benefits of Information Technology and Economic Development in Sri Lanka by reviewing the awareness and readiness of the selected opportunities. This chapter also identifies the enabling factors, the bottlenecks and, forecasts the future growth of ICT Developments in Sri Lanka as a host in Asia. Further, Developing ICT and professional services offshoring opportunities should be a high priority for development strategy to the country. This chapter presents the findings from the survey which assessed the potential for an ICT in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is an island state of contrasts in terms of its Economic development and ICT capability. A research on the web survey of government institutes revealed that 30% of ministries in the country do not have web sites or may not be access able since they are inactive. 38% of the ministries are still in the infant stage and information available in web pages is often state in content and the number of pages is limited to few web pages. Only about 17 % of ministries offer interactive web content, where users have access to regularly updated information and can communicate through e-mail and download government documents through the internet. 15 % of the ministries provide some online services to the citizens .The Public or Private sector economic entities were not develop web sites in local language, all web site is in English even though 80% of population depend on their own local language. Majority of them in Sri Lanka is not speaking English.
Socio Economic Influence on Information Technology
Authors: Azari Rasool , Pick James
Published: May 2011

This chapter examines the influence of socio-economic factors on the employment, payroll, and number of enterprises of three technology sectors for counties in California. Based on correlation and regression analyses, the results reveal that factors that are important correlates of technology sectors are professional/scientific/technical services, other services, and educational services, ethnicity, and college education. As a whole, the findings emphasize the importance of the association of socio economic factors with the per capita magnitude of the technology sectors. This chapter suggests steps that can be taken by the state of California and its county and local governments to foster technology and reduce the digital divide.
Introduction to Data Mining and its Applications to Manufacturing
Authors: Montero Jose D.
Published: May 2011

This chapter provides a brief introduction to data mining, the data mining process, and its applications to manufacturing. Several examples are provided to illustrate how data mining, a key area of computational intelligence, offers a great promise to manufacturing companies. It also covers a brief overview of data warehousing as a strategic resource for quality improvement and as a major enabler for data mining applications. Although data mining has been used extensively in several industries, in manufacturing its use is more limited and new. The examples published in the literature of using data mining in manufacturing promise a bright future for a broader expansion of data mining and business intelligence in general into manufacturing. The author believes that data mining will become a main stream application in manufacturing and it will enhance the analytical capabilities in the organization beyond what is offered and used today from statistical methods.
Modeling and Coordination of Dynamic Supply Networks
Authors: Fiala Petr
Published: May 2011

The chapter is devoted to modeling and analysis of supply systems. Supply chain management is more and more affected by network and dynamic business environment. In supply chain behavior there are inefficiencies. Coordination and cooperation can significantly improve the efficiency of supply networks. There are some approaches to model and analyze the supply dynamics. Important features of this environment are established in the proposed approach. The combination of network structure modeling and simulation of dynamic behavior of units in supply network can be a powerful instrument of performance analysis of supply networks. The problem of coordination in dynamic supply networks involves multiple units with multiple goals. Multicriteria analysis of supply network performance includes such criteria as quantity, quality, time, cost, and profit. Simulation approach is an appropriate tool for prediction of real supply situation.
Core Models for State-of-the-Art Microscopic Traffic Simulation and Kay Elements for Applications
Authors: Wei Heng
Published: May 2011

This chapter summarizes fundamental models for microscopic simulation (such as vehicle generation model and car-following model) and other critical models (such as lane-choice model, lane-changing model, and route-choice model). Most of the critical models introduced in this chapter reflect the latest research results by the author. The primary purpose of this chapter is to provide fundamentals for better understanding of the travel behaviors that are modeled for traffic simulations. To facilitate the applications of traffic simulation models, several key elements for applying state-of-the-art computer traffic simulation tools are summarized. They include the procedure for building models, model calibration and validation. Further more, techniques for collecting vehicle trajectory data, critical elements used for model calibration and validation, are also introduced.
Crime Simulation Using GIS and Artificial Intelligent Agents
Authors: Wang Xuguang , Liu Lin , Eck John
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents an innovative agent-based model for crime simulation. The model is built on the integration of geographic information systems (GIS) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. An AI algorithm (reinforcement learning) is applied in designing mobile agents that can find their ways on a street network. The multi-agent system is implemented as a Windows desktop program and then loosely coupled with ESRI ArcGIS. The model allows users to create artificial societies which consist of offender agents, target agents, and crime places for crime pattern simulation purposes. This is a theory-driven system, in which the processes that generate crime events are explicitly modeled. The simulated crime patterns are shown to have similar properties as seen in reported crime patterns.
Using Varieties of Simulation Modeling for Criminal Justice System Analysis
Authors: Alimadad Azahed , Borwein Peter , Brantingham Patricia , Brantingham Paul , Dabbaghian-Abdoly Vahid , Ferguson Ron , Fowler Ellen , Ghaseminejad Amir H. , Giles Christopher , Li Jenny , Pollard Nahanni , Rutherford Alexander , van der Waall Alexa
Published: May 2011

Criminal justice systems are complex. They are composed of several major subsystems, including the police, courts, and corrections, which are in turn composed of many minor subsystems. Predicting the response of a criminal justice system to change is often difficult. Mathematical modeling and computer simulation can serve as powerful tools for understanding and anticipating the behavior of a criminal justice system when something does change. The focus of this chapter is on three different approaches to modeling and simulating criminal justice systems: process modeling, discrete event simulation, and system dynamics. Recent advances in these modeling techniques combined with recent large increases in computing power make it an ideal time to explore their application to criminal justice systems. This chapter reviews these three approaches to modeling and simulation and presents examples of their application to the British Columbia criminal justice system in order to highlight their usefulness in exploring different types of “what-if” scenarios and policy proposals.
Introducing Conversation Design
Authors: Luppicini Rocci
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces theoretical and historical groundwork for understanding conversation design as an emerging field of research and practice. Over the last forty years, a growing multidisciplinary body of work has focused on conversation and design in a broad range of contexts. This chapter provides a selective overview of this diverse body of work within its various specialty areas. A skeletal description of the historical background, theoretical roots and main approaches is offered to help situate the reader within this emerging field. The chapter concludes with a look at practical applications in conversation design for the 21st century.
Conversation and Design
Authors: Glanville Ranulph
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores the relationship between the activity of design and conversation—particularly as developed in Gordon Pask’s Conversation Theory. Design and conversation are seen as analogous, so that design can be understood as a conversation held, generally, with the self (via paper and pencil). I argue that design has been a conversational activity since long before we started exploring conversation, and that design education is, itself, also conversational. This being so, conversational approaches are already the norm in design education. The benefit of considering design and conversation together in an educational setting is not so much to improve one or the other, but to understand each better through the mirror the other provides. Other aspects of design (such as the social working in the studio) are also related to this conversational understanding. It is argued that design is a powerful, alternative and fundamental way of working and being in the world, not poor science, and that Pask’s conversation theory helps us better understand both its power and its validity.
Towards More Intelligent Assessment Systems
Authors: Radenkovic Sonya , Krdžavac Nenad , Devedžic Vladan
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents a framework for intelligent analysis of the students’ knowledge in assessment systems, using description logics (DLs) reasoning techniques. The framework is based on Model Driven Architecture (MDA) software engineering standards. It starts from the IMS Question and Test Interoperability (QTI) standard and includes MDA-based metamodel and model transformations for QTI assessment systems. It also specifies an architecture for QTI assessment systems that is reusable, extensible, and facilitates interoperability between its component systems. An implementation of the QTI metamodel and the relevant example of transformations is provided in order to support developments according to the proposed framework.
Military Applications of Adaptive Training Technology
Authors: McCarthy James E.
Published: May 2011

This chapter provides an overview of the use of adaptive training technology within the military domain. Throughout the chapter, we will discuss the use of intelligent tutoring, adaptive interactive multimedia instruction, and their combination to form closed-loop adaptive training. Frequently, the discussion of a particular approach will be illustrated with one or more case-studies. Moreover, we will explore impediments to widespread adoption of these interventions throughout the military, methods to overcome these impediments, and the migration of this technology into other domains. We will conclude by summarizing trends that are likely to characterize on-going development. Rather than providing a comprehensive review of technology-enhanced learning in the military, which is likely to be outdated before it is published, the author hopes that this illustrative review will open new avenues of thought for researchers, developers, and purchasers of these systems.
BookingFax
Authors: Martínez-Fierro Salustiano
Published: May 2011

In this case we analyze the creation process of a firm from the tourism sector that has exploited a business opportunity opened up by new technologies. BookingFax acts as an intermediary between wholesalers of tourism offers and retailers, travel agencies, and even the final consumers themselves. The main objective of this case is to analyze how information technology in the tourism sector has constituted the basis of an idea to create a firm, and the role the firm plays in the tourism market. In addition, as the case develops it will become clear that information technology provides the competitive basis of BookingFax. The firm has used this key tool to enter the market, be competitive, and become the number-one firm in its sector in Spain.
Cember.net
Authors: Toker Ayþegül , Ýþeri- Say Arzu , Çolak-Erol Nihan
Published: May 2011

Inception of the Internet leads to emergence of online communities in the virtual space where spatial proximity and time are no longer constraints in establishing and developing relationships. Online social networks are online communities basically providing a channel through which information about potential social and economic exchange opportunities can be presented, searched, and leveraged by the network members. The distinguishing features of a social networking site are the use of explicit representation of member-provided information and relationships between members, thus embedding trust and referral mechanisms into the network. Cember.net, a Turkey-based online business networking start-up provides a platform through which its members can locate potential economic exchange partners. However, Cember.net differentiates its business model from those of major online competitors by incorporating means to foster social interactions and exchanges. Cember.net, with its continually growing member base, presents networking opportunities to its members by not only advancing the quantity of relationships but the quality of the relationships as well.
Raising, to Enhance Rule Mining in Web Marketing with the Use of an Ontology
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Geller James
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces Raising as an operation which is used as a pre-processing step for Data Mining. In the Web Marketing Project, people’s demographic and interest information has been collected from the Web. Rules have been derived using this information as input for data mining. The Raising step takes advantage of an interest ontology to advance data mining and to improve rule quality. The definition and implementation of Raising are presented in this chapter. Furthermore, the effects caused by Raising are analyzed in detail, showing an improvement of the support and confidence values of useful association rules for marketing purposes.
Ontology-Based Construction of Grid Data Mining Workflows
Authors: Brezany Peter , Janciak Ivan , Tjoa A Min
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces an ontology-based framework for automated construction of complex interactive data mining workflows as a means of improving productivity of Grid-enabled data exploration systems. The authors first characterize existing manual and automated workflow composition approaches and then present their solution called GridMiner Assistant (GMA), which addresses the whole life cycle of the knowledge discovery process. GMA is specified in the OWL language and is being developed around a novel data mining ontology, which is based on concepts of industry standards like the Predictive Model Markup Language, Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining and Java Data Mining API. The ontology introduces basic data mining concepts like data mining elements, tasks, services, etc. In addition, conceptual and implementation architectures of the framework are presented and its application to an example taken from the medical domain is illustrated. The authors hope that the further research and development of this framework can lead to productivity improvements, which can have significant impact on many real-life spheres. For example, it can be a crucial factor in achievement of scientific discoveries, optimal treatment of patients, productive decision making, cutting costs, etc.
Towards An Ethical Approach To Commercial Space Activities
Authors: Arnould Jacques
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces the ethical questioning in the field of space activities, especially space commerce. If the 1967 Outer Space Treaty defines space as the “property of all” and its exploration as the “province of all mankind”, the future utilization of near-Earth (and tomorrow Greater Earth) space needs probably a new ethics (if ethics means not only legal applications but also and for example the application of the “rule of three Ps”: protection, promotion and preparation). Orbital debris mitigation, the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters or, in the future, the safety of private astronauts crews offer lessons in realism and sources of prospective reflections. Space ethics is still in its infancy.
Machines Paying Attention
Authors: Taylor John G.
Published: May 2011

Attention is analyzed as the superior control system in the brain from an engineering point of view, with support for this from the way attention is presently being understood by brain science. Such an engineering- control framework allows an understanding of how the complex networks observed in the brain during various cognitive tasks can begin to be functionally decomposed. A machine version of such an attention control system is then discussed and extended to allow for goals and their reward values also to be encoded in the attention machine. The manner in which emotion may then begin to be imbued in the machine is briefly discussed and how even some glimpse of consciousness may then arise.
Evolutionary Algorithms in Problem Solving and Machine Learning
Authors: Tomassini Marco , Vanneschi Leonardo
Published: May 2011

In the first part of the chapter, evolutionary algorithms are briefly described, especially genetic algorithms and genetic programming, with sufficient detail so as to prepare the ground for the second part. The latter presents in more detail two specific applications. The first is about an important financial problem: the portfolio allocation problem. The second one deals with a biochemical problem related to drug design and efficacy.
Fractal Geometry and Computer Science
Authors: Sala Nicoletta
Published: May 2011

Fractal geometry can help us to describe the shapes in nature (e.g., ferns, trees, seashells, rivers, mountains) exceeding the limits imposed by Euclidean geometry. Fractal geometry is quite young: The first studies are the works by the French mathematicians Pierre Fatou (1878-1929) and Gaston Julia (1893-1978) at the beginning of the 20th century. However, only with the mathematical power of computers has it become possible to realize connections between fractal geometry and other disciplines. It is applied in various fields now, from biology to economy. Important applications also appear in computer science because fractal geometry permits us to compress images, and to reproduce, in virtual reality environments, the complex patterns and irregular forms present in nature using simple iterative algorithms executed by computers. Recent studies apply this geometry to controlling traffic in computer networks (LANs, MANs, WANs, and the Internet). The aim of this chapter is to present fractal geometry, its properties (e.g., self-similarity), and their applications in computer science.
HRM Practices and Knowledge Transfer in Multinational Companies
Authors: Minbaeva Dana B.
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces HRM practices that help MNCs to overcome knowledge transfer barriers (knowledge-driven HRM practices). It argues that MNCs can institute various HRM practices that impact knowledge transfer barriers associated with behavior of knowledge senders and receivers. HRM practices relevant for absorptive capacity of subsidiary employees form two groups – cognitive (job analysis, recruitment, selection, international rotation, career management, training and performance appraisal) and stimulative (promotion, performance-based compensation, internal transfer, orientation programs, job design and flexible working practices). The application of cognitive HRM practices enhances the ability of knowledge receivers to absorb transferred knowledge, while the use of stimulative HRM practices increases their motivation. Temporary and permanent types of international assignments respectively influence the ability and motivation of expatriate managers to share their knowledge.