bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of metadata formats
Authors: Heery Rachel
Published: February 2008

Increasing use of the Internet has heightened awareness among the information community of the need to provide user friendly searching and navigation tools that lead to quality information. An essential part of gaining effective access to Internet resources is to provide an index of available items in order to save users time and network overload. Discussions on metadata are focused on the format of the record used as the basis for the index. Control of the vast number of resources of the Internet requires an appropriate record format (or formats) which will enable the resource to be adequately described and easily located; records must be compatible with an appropriate search engine which in turn would ideally be compatible with a search and retrieval Internet protocol and all components should conform to international standards. At present there are a number of formats which meet at least some of these criteria, each of which has its own strengths.
The Development of Electronic Publishing and Digital Library Collections on the NREN
Authors: Lynch Clifford A.
Published: February 2008

This article reviews the present and expected future environments for network‐based electronic publishing and network access to bibliographic and journal databases. Emerging visions of “electronic libraries” are considered. The difficulties inherent in the development of full text and images as networked information are outlined. The growth and diversification of library collections in electronic form and the requisite network access systems are discussed, as are the prospect of increased resource sharing among libraries and the subsequent explosion of document delivery requests (and costs!). The issues of storage and format of electronic publishing are developed, and perspectives on electronic publishing are presented for all those involved: the author, the library, the reader, and the publisher. A change in the scope, and thereby in the definition, of the library is anticipated.
Empowerment and Reduction of Isolation of Housebound Disabled Students: A Computer‐Mediated Communications Project at the UK Open University
Authors: Dyer Gordon
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this article is to describe some recent experiences at the United Kingdom Open University (UKOU) in setting up computer‐mediated communication (CMC) support for housebound disabled or otherwise isolated students. The driving force behind this experiment was the important role that CMC has as an educational tool; it empowers and reduces isolation of remote learners. This feature of CMC has received little attention, for, hitherto its application within education has been linked mainly to its use as a teaching aid. Educators concerned with the issue of widening access to higher education may be interested in learning about the OU project and its outcomes. The note first describes the context of this application, by reviewing the multimedia approach to home‐based, parttime, distance education used by the UKOU. The key lessons learned from the use of CMC as an educational tool since 1988 are summarized. The current housebound student project is then described, both in terms of the design stages through to implementation of network activity and interim evaluation and review. Finally, some key points for others interested in implementing a similar scheme are summarized.
Internet Basic Training: Teaching Networking Skills in Higher Education
Authors: Tennant Roy
Published: February 2008

The Internet computer network is not yet an intuitive or an easily understood environment in which to work. Therefore, new network users in higher education need basic instruction on what the Internet offers and how it can be utilized. Basic training can include an overview of the major academic networks, how to use the networks, how to discover networked information resources, and where to get more information. A conceptual framework of the various operating systems and programs that they will need to connect to a networked information resource may help users understand which command is appropriate and when it is appropriate. Academic librarians are uniquely qualified to offer this instruction because networked information resources are merely another “format” of information and because librarians are skilled at presenting complex information in a straightforward manner.
Prospero: A Tool for Organizing Internet Resources
Authors: Clifford Neuman B.
Published: February 2008

Recent growth of the Internet has greatly increased the amount of information that is accessible and the number of resources that are available to users. To exploit this growth, it must be possible for users to find the information and resources they need. Existing techniques for organizing systems have evolved from those used on centralized systems, but these techniques are inadequate for organizing information on a global scale. This article describes Prospero, a distributed file system based on the Virtual System Model. Prospero provides tools to help users organize Internet resources. These tools allow users to construct customized views of available resources, while taking advantage of the structure imposed by others. Prospero provides a framework that can tie together various indexing services producing the fabric on which resource discovery techniques can be applied.
World‐Wide Web: The Information Universe
Authors: Berners‐Lee Tim , Cailliau Robert , Groff Jean‐François , Pollermann Bernd
Published: February 2008

The World‐Wide Web (W3) initiative is a practical project designed to bring a global information universe into existence using available technology. This article describes the aims, data model, and protocols needed to implement the “web” and compares them with various contemporary systems.
Whither Regional Networks?
Authors: Brown Alison
Published: February 2008

The burning question for state/regional networks at present is deciding who the “thou” in the above quotation represents. Is it the NSF, the NREN, or, in the case of Bill Schrader's (of Performance Systems, Inc.) now famous quotation, “follow the money,” is it the commercial client? Is the objective of the regional network to find a niche market with long‐term survival value? Is it to stay in business long enough to address the needs of our academic customers and then retire more‐or‐less gracefully when no longer needed? Or is it to try to become a full‐service organization with long‐term viability?
Selling Internet Service: An Ancient Art Form on a New Canvas
Authors: Maloff Joel H.
Published: February 2008

The Internet is a rapidly expanding community, adding many new converts daily. Although initially the domain of computer scientists and network engineers, the Internet and Internet‐like services now include users such as accountants, lawyers, demographers, business development people, product planners, and corporate CEOs. In fact, virtually all businesses can find substantial benefit from the use of the Internet. Reaching these decision‐makers and demonstrating the value to their businesses is the task facing anyone interested in the sales of Internet services. Marketing Internet services requires one to practice an ancient art form using new paints and canvases.
Keys to Privacy in the Digital Information Age
Authors: Berman Jerry , Weltzner Daniel J.
Published: February 2008

With dramatic increases in reliance on digital media for communications, the need for comprehensive protection of privacy in these media grows. The scope of the digital communications revolution (of which we stand only at the very beginning), poses major new challenges for those concerned about protecting communications privacy. Communication which is carried on paper through the mail system, or over the wire‐based public telephone network is relatively secure from random intrusion by others. But the same communication traveling over a wireless communication system, or in a digital format, is vulnerable to being intercepted by relatively inexpensive, easy‐to‐obtain technology. If designed and deployed properly, communications technology has the potential to actually support and enhance the level of privacy that we all enjoy. But if, in the design process, privacy concerns are slighted, whether consciously or not, privacy may be compromised.
BIDS ISI — A National Experiment in End‐user Searching
Authors: Morrow Terry
Published: February 2008

The BIDS ISI Data Service is the first online end‐user bibliographic data service freely available to anyone from a subscribing higher education institution in the United Kingdom. Most U.K. universities and many other teaching and research organisations have taken out subscriptions, and accesses currently exceed 7,500 per week. The service, operated from the campus of the University of Bath by BIDS (Bath Information & Data Services), is the result of an agreement reached between CHEST (the Combined Higher Education Software Team who negotiate with software and data suppliers on behalf of the U.K. academic community) and ISI (the Institute for Scientific Information, USA). The service is described, an account is given of how it came into being, and an assessment is made of some of the likely effects on the activities of computer centres, libraries, and academics. It concludes with a review of likely future BIDS ISI developments.
INTERNATIONAL SMUGGLING: ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND CORPORATE IMPLICATIONS
Authors: Ayitey Stephens Robert , Boddewyn Jean J. , Ross Sproul Sterling
Published: February 2008

Smuggling represents a significant proportion of world trade. However, its nature and rationale are not sufficiently understood in comparison with those of counterfeiting, parallel importing and contraband trade. The willing or unwilling involvement of MNCs in smuggling is also poorly perceived. These issues are reviewed here as well as actions aimed at reducing smuggling's growth.
EUROPE 1992: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR WISCONSIN SMALL‐AND MEDIUM‐SIZED MANUFACTURERS
Authors: Moini A.H.
Published: February 2008

This study examines the managerial attitudes of 322 Wisconsin manufacturers about the impact of the EC‐1992 on their business. A survey was conducted with small‐ and medium‐sized manufacturers inquiring about their attitudes about the potential benefits of EC‐1992; firm perceived strength in post‐1992 Europe; available strategic options to management responding to the changes in industry structure that the 1992 reforms promise to stimulate; and size characteristics of the firm. Research findings indicate that the majority of those surveyed do not foresee any change in their business with European nations. In addition, substantial differences occur between smaller manufacturers from the standpoint of size, planning activities, and their perceived strength in post‐1992.
COVARIABILITY OF MAJOR EQUITY MARKETS AROUND THE OCTOBER 1987 CRASH: TESTS OF GRANGER CAUSALITY
Authors: Mansur Iqbal
Published: February 2008

This study examined the level of interdependecies which existed among several major equity markets around the October 19, 1987, crash. Three different statistical techniques were utilized to analyze daily data for three months before and after the crash. All three techniques revealed that the major equity markets were more closely integrated during the post‐crash subperiod than the pre‐crash subperiod. The existence of the uni‐directional causality from the U.S. to Canada and from the U.S. to U.K. and bi‐directional causality between the U.S. and Japan during the post‐crash subperiod indicate that the U.S. market volatility contributed to the volatility in the foreign markets.
EFFECTS OF SOCIALIZATION ON NEWCOMERS' ROLE ORIENTATION IN LEBANESE COMMERCIAL BANKS
Authors: Nakib Khalil , Charbaji Abdelrazzak , Hamdan Jamal
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine three different socialization tactics (social, context, and content) used by Lebanese commercial banks. A survey instrument was distributed to 115 newcomer employees. It was found that Lebanese commercial banks socialize their new employees to be effective members.
THE MEANING OF WORK AT VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONAL LEVELS
Authors: Harpaz Itzhak , Fu Xuanning
Published: February 2008

This study examined differences in the Meaning of Work among three levels in Israeli organizations: employees, supervisors, and managers. The Meaning of Work has been conceptually defined in terms of five major domains: work centrality, societal norms about working, valued work outcomes, work goals, and work role identification. Autonomy emerged as the single most important variable to distinguish among organizational levels. Additional variables found to be related to people's position in the organization were job satisfaction, educational level, gender, and economic orientation. These findings were discussed and suggestions were made regarding implications for organizations.
MARKETING PRACTICES AMONG MIDDLE EASTERN FIRMS: THE CASE OF EGYPT
Authors: Al‐Khatib Jamal , Sutton Robert
Published: February 2008

The recent Middle East war and the subsequent strengthening of political ties between the United States and Middle Eastern countries have opened the doors to attractive business opportunities and increased the chance for the transferability of Western business practices more than ever before. The objectives of this study were to examine marketing practices among Egyptian firms. The results from 51 firms operating in various sectors of the Egyptian economy indicate a massive neglect and absence of modern marketing practices among the surveyed firms. Foreign firms that adapt their strategies to cultural and structural impediments to marketing in that country will prove most profitable.
JAPANESE PHILOSOPHY OF SERVICE
Authors: Herbig Paul A. , Palumbo Frederick A.
Published: February 2008

The Japanese typically demand much higher levels and quality of service than expected elsewhere in the world. Extensive after‐sales support, service, and personal attention are required to obtain and keep the Japanese customer. This paper examines the following questions and their ramifications for Marketers: what are the service requirements in Japan ? How did they evolve? What do they cost the Japanese customer in time and money? What does the future hold for service in Japan?
THE MAASTRICHT TREATY AND MONETARY UNION IN EUROPE: A THEORETICAL GAME ANALYSIS
Authors: Ghannadian Farhad F.
Published: February 2008

This essay focuses on European monetary unification to be completed before the 21st century (1999). In December 1991 in the Dutch city of Maastricht the German Central Bank (Bundesbank) clearly showed that it intends to set and influence the economic policies of all of Europe. Utilizing Game theoretical analysis this paper argues that for Germany a policy of noncooperative leadership is the best strategy. However, for the rest of Europe gaining German cooperation in setting monetary policy is in the community's overall interest. Given the long run need to coordinate policy in a unified Europe, the Bundesbank will cooperate with the rest of EC members. Until the final outcome of this union becomes known, a climate of uncertainty will hover over financial management practices.
PARENT AGENCY INFLUENCE AND CONTROL OVER FOREIGN AFFILIATES: A GLOBAL ADVERTISING PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Shao Alan T. , Herbig Paul
Published: February 2008

The dyadic relationship between U.S. parent advertising agencies and their foreign affiliates were examined, using information gathered from 344 respondents in 52 countries. Parent agencies tended to position themselves to control their overseas affiliates by either totally or majority owning their operations but did not significantly influence, and thus control, their marketing activities. Several environmental factors, particularly claims advertisers can make and hiring restrictions, likely played important roles that affected the extent parent agencies influenced their affiliates.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PERSONAL VALUE SYSTEMS OF JORDANIAN MANAGERS AND THEIR MANAGERIAL SUCCESS
Authors: Hayajneh Abdalla F. , Gacem Raggad Bel
Published: February 2008

The relationship between the personal value systems of managers and their managerial success was investigated for a national sample of Jordanian managers. The results of this study revealed that the personal value systems of the sampled managers are related to their success as managers. It was also found that there are differences between the personal value systems of more successful managers and those of less‐successful managers. While more successful managers have dynamic and achievement‐oriented values, less/successful managers have more traditional moral and religion values.
FOREIGN DIRECT MINORITY‐EQUITY INVESTMENTS AS STRATEGIC ALLIANCES: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF THE IMPACT ON U.S. FIRMS (1979–1991)
Authors: Preece Stephen B. , Ajami Riad A.
Published: February 2008

This research considers the incidence of foreign firms investing between 10 percent and 50 percent equity in U.S. corporations, or Foreign Direct Minority‐Equity Investment (FDMI). FDMI relationships are viewed with respect to international strategic alliances in general and are hypothesized to be motivated by market, technology, or production considerations. Both financial and operational performance measures are examined comparing three years prior to the FDMI with three years after. The research follows an ex post facto, quasi‐experimental design with two control groups consisting of 99 companies each. Results indicate declining performance measures related to FDMI companies receiving FDMI as compared to a matched sample of peer firms. Strategic management, agency theory and other explanations are explored in light of these findings.
ORGANIZATIONAL IMPLICATIONS OF DIVESTMENT: A COMPARISON OF INNOVATIVE PRACTICES IN CROWN AND PRIVATE CORPORATIONS IN CANADA
Authors: Carter Kent , Beth Pinto Mary , Pinto Jeffrey K.
Published: February 2008

The move to divest many of the Crown corporations in Canada over the last seven years has had far‐reaching economic and social effects. Since divestment's inception, however, little research has attempted to examine some of the managerial and organizational implications of these policies; in effect, to determine whether or not divested (and other private) companies actually do operate in a more proactive and innovative manner than do Crown corporations. This article reports on a recent exploratory study that compared the processes by which new innovations are implemented in Canadian Crown and private corporations. It also assesses the impact of a number of external environmental factors on private firm and Crown operations. The results suggest that private firms do differ from Crown companies in that privatized organizations tend to show a greater willingness to take risks in developing new innovations and offer significantly greater rewards for innovative approaches and behaviors than do Crown corporations. Implications for encouraging future innovative behavior among both Crown and private firms are discussed.
EXPERTS' OPINIONS TOWARD PRICE STABILITY DURING THE STOCK MARKET CRISIS
Authors: Rashid Sabri Nidal
Published: February 2008

A new environment has evolved in the international stock markets, as expressed by the occurrence of market crises and high swings of stock prices. The stock prices are supposed to respond to real data under the market efficiency hypothesis. However, in some cases, price fluctuation is influenced by other conditions which may lead to a crisis. This paper discusses the issue based on the opinions of the stock market experts. The Amsterdam Stock Exchange (ASE) has been selected as a case for this research. The study indicates there is no significant difference among the perceptions of the three groups of ASE stock market experts concerning nine stated conditions which may lead to a stock market crisis, while significant differences exist among the ASE brokers, bankers and specialists concerning six stated elements that minimize the probability of evolving a stock market crises. There is a positive association among the groups of Amsterdam stock market experts about the total conditions that may lead to a stock market crisis, but there is no association concerning the total elements that minimize the probability of evolving a stock market crisis.
OBSTACLES FACING SAUDI ARABIAN FOOD AND CHEMICAL EXPORTERS
Authors: Al‐Aali Abdulrahman
Published: February 2008

This study examined responses from 58 food and chemical exporters in Saudi Arabia. Managerial perceptions on 24 export obstacles that were derived from the literature are analyzed and reported. The single most important obstacle perceived by the sample exporters is fierce competition in foreign markets. Competition is followed by high cost of imported raw materials, absence of information about foreign markets, wide fluctuations in the foreign exchange rate, and high overseas transportation costs. The eight categories of the obstacles are: market information, competition, shipping, government policy, foreign market risks, export procedures, production/marketing cost, and internal/technical problems. MANOVA analysis showed that chemical and food exporters are statistically different in their mean response to these obstacles. ANOVA pinpointed those variables that are different at the .05 level. They are: risks involved in selling abroad, language and cultural differences, complex export procedures, lack of adequate export revenue insurance program, and absence of an export management and consulting company. Managerial and policy implications are discussed. Further, recommendations for tackling the top export obstacles are presented.
THE SAUDI EQUITY INVESTOR: A DESCRIPTIVE SURVEY
Authors: Almotairy Obaid , Lenk Margarita Maria , Schultz Norman
Published: February 2008

The stock market in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is quickly developing and maturing. While the inefficiencies of this market have already been attributed to its mechanics (Abdeen and Shook, 1984; Butler and Malaikah, 1992; Abdelkader, 1993), information concerning the market players has not been available. This research reports descriptive results of 74 interviews with Saudi investors. The results provide insight into the information that is used for investing decisions, support prior evidence of market inefficiency, and encourage more research in this area.
FACTORS OF MEDIA SELECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL MARKETS: A STUDY OF U.S.‐BASED ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Authors: Kanso Ali
Published: February 2008

This research examines factors that affect media selection decisions for foreign markets as perceived by advertising executives of U.S. multinational corporations. The main objective is to determine whether cultural factors play a significant role in the selection process. The study investigates the opinions of 84 advertising executives of U.S. consumer durable product manufacturers. Findings reveal that managers place more importance on general factors (type of product, target audience, budget size, cost efficiency, reach and frequency, and competition) than they place on specific non‐domestic factors (media availability, language diversity, legal constraints, level of economy, literacy, and cultural considerations). Findings also suggest that executives tend to be more involved in establishing objectives and budgets than in creative strategy and media selection.
MULTINATIONALS AS TRANSFERERS OF MANAGEMENT SKILLS TO POLAND
Authors: Stoever William A.
Published: February 2008

This paper presents a schema for analyzing the transfer of management skills to a reforming socialist economy and uses it to examine the extent to which foreign investors should be able to transfer such skills to Poland. Among the conditions for effective transfer of skills from the multinational's side (the skills transferer's side) are acceptable return/risk ratio, surmountable adjustment problems, and the availability of host‐society managerial talent. Schematically the conditions on the host society's side (the transferee's side) can be considered at two levels. At the macro level the relationship must produce a net economic benefit and must be politically acceptable. At the micro level, there must be effective transfer mechanisms, locally available managerial talent, and receptive managerial attitudes. The paper is based on interviews and materials gathered in Poland.
THE EMERGENCE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN EASTERN EUROPE: A SELF‐ORGANIZING PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Russell Robert D.
Published: February 2008

This paper looks at some of the difficulties that may inhibit the spread of entrepreneurial systems in the former Communist Bloc nations of Eastern Europe. The lack of a generally accepted model of entrepreneurship, even among Western academics and practitioners, is noted. Finally, a framework based on the idea of complex adaptive systems is suggested that might provide some guidance for building entrepreneurship in these emerging nations.
A FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF DISTRIBUTION FACTORS ON THE POTENTIAL EFFECTIVENESS OF INTERNATIONAL SHORT‐TERM HUMANITARIAN AID
Authors: Wright Robert E.
Published: February 2008

Decisions on provision of international short term aid are often undertaken on an emotional, public relations driven basis. Such decisions may result in an inefficient and ineffective allocation of resources in terms of helping the most people at the lowest total cost. Using ideas from the marketing literature on the importance of distribution channels in effective and efficient delivery of non‐profit products and services, this paper addresses the issues of efficiency and effectiveness in allocation of short term relief aid. A framework is developed to assist decision makers in understanding how distribution factors might affect delivery of such aid.
DIFFERENCES IN TRADE SHOW BEHAVIOR BETWEEN NORTH AMERICAN‐FOCUSED FIRMS AND WORLDWIDE‐ORIENTED FIRMS
Authors: Herbig Paul , Palumbo Fred , O'Hara Brad
Published: February 2008

Trade Shows are a major portion of the marketing mix in the industrial marketplace, second only to personal selling and aboveadvertising. Thisessay summaries pervious research and indicates validation of certain signigicant findings of earlier research with a current study.
TO MARKET, TO MARKET? THE POLITICS OF TRADE IN PERU
Authors: Champion Margaret Y.
Published: February 2008

Can we do business with strangers? A major handicap to any promotion is ignorance of the market and its members. In order to understand Latin Americans, says Albert Hirschman, we must first understand how Latin Americans understand each other. We see the “facts” one way, but their perception of these same facts is often very different. This is my purpose in reporting on Peru's attitude and internal discussions on international trade. Why Peru? A U S. State Department official told me that they consider Peru as a sort of bell wether in South America. Abraham Lowenthal of the Inter‐American Dialog says Peru has an international significance greater than would be expected, considering the size of its economy, and E. V. K. Fitzgerald of Cambridge says the Peruvian experience is significant in judgimg prospects in South America.
COMPETITIVE STRATEGY AND THE ADOPTION AND USAGE OF PROCESS INNOVATION
Authors: Congden Steven W. , Schroeder Dean M.
Published: February 2008

This paper explores the relationship between the timing and usage of process innovation and a firm's competitive business strategy. A study of 104 foundries that adopted Automatic Flaskless Matchplate Molding (AFMM) showed that the decision to adopt was significantly related to strategies of product specialization, value‐added, and customer focus, but not to low‐cost leadership. Finns with divergent competitive strategies adopted the innovation, but used it differently to reach their varying goals.
COUNTERTRADING WITH EASTERN EUROPE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE BENEFITS AND PITFALLS
Authors: Ibrahim Nabil A. , Angelidis John P.
Published: February 2008

Countertrade has grown into a phenomenon too important to be ignored by business practitioners, researchers, and governments. In particular, as a growing number of countries in Eastern Europe open their markets to international trade, business firms can realize a great number of opportunities. Yet there is a dearth of empirical research on countertrade arrangements with this region of the world. The present study investigates this issue. Specifically, it examines the benefits and pitfalls of countertrade between U.S. companies and Eastern Europe and compares them with those of similar arrangements with other parts of the world. Some explanations as well as implications and limited generalizations are developed.
THE GLOBALIZATION OF THE RETAILING INDUSTRY
Authors: Burns David J.
Published: February 2008

The focus of this special issue of the International Journal of Commerce and Management is the globalization of the retailing industry. This is a topic which has received relatively little attention by most retailers and researchers until recently (Akehurst & Alexander, 1996). Instead, based on the belief that the heterogeneity of consumers across regions and nations was too great a hurdle to overcome, retailing has been traditionally viewed as primarily local or national in scope. Events in the retailing industry over the past several decades, however, has proven this belief to be incorrect. In fact, retailers have been among the forefront of the globalization process presently occurring in the business environment.
GLOBAL EXPANSION: A SPECIALTY RETAILER'S LIVED EXPERIENCE
Authors: Simpson Eithel M. , Thorpe Dayle I.
Published: February 2008

A qualitative description of the retail manager's decision to consider global expansion is offered. A case study of a specialty store operation provides a rich idiographic description of this phenomenon and illustrates a thematic structure inherent in the retailers' lived‐experience of global expansion. Three themes, time, doing, and differences are presented as mutually related aspects of the retailers' experience. These themes are also discussed in a holistic context consisting of three higher‐level emergent themes: constraint/freedom, adaptability/changeability, and creativity/innovativeness. The applicability of this retail manager's experience to other similar contexts is discussed.
SHOPPING ALBANIAN MARKETS: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND RETAIL STRATEGY
Authors: Dahab Debra J. , Su Wanru , Riolli Laura , Marquardt Raymond
Published: February 2008

This paper presents the results of survey research conducted in 1994 and 1995 on consumer perceptions of different retail formats in Albania. As a developing country where consumers and retailers are learning to adjust to a new market system, Albania presents a unique context for this type of study. We measured consumer perceptions of merchandising and customer service attributes and overall satisfaction for private stores with a permanent location, kiosks, and open market vendors. Contrary to other studies of informal retailers, our results show that open market vendors and, to a lesser extent, kiosks provide consumers with less overall satisfaction as compared to the permanent, private stores. Since these markets are segmented to a certain extent by product type, consumers shopped across all markets. Over time, consumers are becoming more confident of their decision skills, product quality has become more important, and permanent private stores were perceived as improving in merchandising and service. However, shopping frequency in the open market increased due to the economic situation. Implications for both Albanian entrepreneurs and potential foreign investors are discussed.
INTERNATIONALIZATION OF JAPANESE DEPARTMENT STORES
Authors: Sternquist Brenda
Published: February 2008

Japanese department stores have gained significant market‐share in several Pacific Rim countries. In this paper, factors related to internationalization are discussed. Dunning's eclectic approach is considered as a framework for explaining internationalization. Profits, number of employees, and dollars spent for research and development are independent variables used to predict internationalization. Japanese department stores with international offices versus no international offices were correctly classified 83% of the time. Those retailers with international offices had greater profit, more employees, and more R&D funds than those without international offices. A two by two matrix focusing on growth and store format is presented to explain Japanese retailers' international expansion. Propositions for future research are presented.
STRATEGIC MARKETING OPTIONS IN THE U.S. AIRLINE INDUSTRY
Authors: Das T.K. , Reisel William D.
Published: February 2008

The U.S. airline industry provides an example of a mature industry in which firms can exercise specific kinds of strategic marketing options. This paper examines the relationships between specific options and particular competitor groups. A matrix of strategic marketing options and competitor groups is developed. The paper also discusses the implications of the matrix for considering future opportunities.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MARKETING EFFECTIVENESS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED FIRMS IN TURKEY
Authors: Yukselen Cemal
Published: February 2008

This article describes the perceptions of 77 senior executives within smaller firms and the extent to which the marketing concept is practiced within their company. The study was conducted among manufacturing firms in three provinces of the Cukurova region of Turkey. The aim of the research was to discover the factors which determine the level of marketing effectiveness of small and medium sized firms.
PORTFOLIO ASSET ALLOCATION PROCESS: INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFICATION BY COUNTRY OR BY SECTOR?
Authors: Diamond Jeanette M. , Abdullah Fuad A. , Olson Keith A.
Published: February 2008

Employing cluster analysis techniques, the paper examines the efficacy of international diversification across economic sectors, or the so‐called “bottom‐up approach,” as contrasted with the traditional approach used by fund managers of allocating assets by country and then by sector. The study covered the 1986–93 period and examined data for seven economic sectors in 20 countries divided into three regional groupings (North America, Pacific Rim, and Europe). The findings are portrayed in dendograms which depict the correlation coefficients between sector pairings. The statistical evidence suggests that the market sector approach has a great deal of merit as a basis for international portfolio diversification.
A CROSS‐CULTURAL COMPARISON OF VALUE SYSTEMS OF EGYPTIANS, AMERICANS, AFRICANS AND ARAB EXECUTIVES
Authors: Elsayed‐Elkhouly Sayed M. , Buda Richard
Published: February 2008

This study provides an empirical assessment comparing value systems of Egyptians (n=658), Americans (n=132), Africans (n=43), and Arabs (n=101). In addition, it investigates the value patterns of executives of these cultures making cross‐cultural comparisons across these four regions. The results are based on the responses of both terminal and instrumental values as defined by the Rokeach Value Survey. The analysis showed substantial differences exist among all four regions and between paired comparisons among the regions. The values of the Egyptian executives were least similar to American executives and to a lesser degree, African and Arabian executives on both instrumental and terminal values. In addition, African executives were most similar to Arabian and American executives on both instrumental and terminal values. Results as well as implications and directions for future research are discussed.
THE TIFFIN CARRIERS OF BOMBAY, INDIA: AN ORGANIZATIONAL AND LOGISTICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Margulis Stephen T. , Motwani Jaideep , Kumar Ashok
Published: February 2008

The article describes the tiffin carriers of Bombay (Mumbai), India, who pick‐up and deliver 200,000 hot lunches within a 3‐hour window. This business demonstrates the influence of culture and geography (urban infrastructure) on organizational structure, employee behavior, and the emergence and success of a logistical system. The organization's relatively uncommon conjoined‐structure logistical system is technologically and communicationally unsophisticated by western standards, but appears to be highly efficient and effective. Organizational structure, and functioning (personnel practices, employee behavior), are traced to national and local Indian ethos and cultural characteristics, particularly power distance and uncertainty avoidance.
ESTIMATING CONSUMER SATISFACTION: OLS VERSUS ORDERED PROBABILITY MODELS
Authors: Peel Michael J. , Goode Mark M.H. , Moutinho Luiz A.
Published: February 2008

This paper reviews the use of logit and probit models in marketing and focuses on demonstrating the use of ordered probability models. This type of model is appropriate for many applications in marketing and business where the dependent variable of interest is ordinal (e.g., likert scales). A comparison between the properties of the ordinary least squares (OLS) model and ordered logit and probit models is made using consumer satisfaction data on automobiles. This comparison between the two models shows that the use of OLS for ordered categorical data gives misleading results and produces biased estimates, leading to inaccurate hypothesis testing. The paper concludes that ordered probability models, such as the ones illustrated, should be employed in marketing and business research where the dependent variable is ordinal.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIVENESS: AN EMPIRICAL EXAMINATION USING THE ENVIRONMENTAL DISCLOSURE INDEX
Authors: Stanwick Sarah D. , Stanwick Peter A.
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between corporate social responsiveness and organizational characteristics. Using a ratio comparing the number of environmental disclosures that are made internally by the firm with external environmental disclosures (Environmental Disclosure Index), an empirical analysis was done using data from 24 chemical companies. The study's results showed that there was an inverse relationship between the firm's social responsiveness and the firm's size and a positive relationship with the firm's financial performance. The study's results did not indicate a significant relationship between the level of corporate social responsiveness and the capital expenditures and pollution emissions released by the firms.
THE STRATEGIES OF EXCELLENT MANUFACTURING EXPORTERS
Authors: Miller Van , Becker Tom , Crespy Charles
Published: February 2008

This paper studies the strategies of “E” award winning exporters engaged in manufacturing and demonstrates that there are multiple strategies for achieving success. Cluster analysis is applied to fifty‐seven items that comprise the population of business activities for award‐winning U.S. exporters to Latin America. Four strategies emerge from the cluster analysis and are validated with multiple methods. In addition, the clusters are shown to be consistent with an emerging business strategy typology that until now has ignored exporting. The results offer both a geographical and a conceptual extension of prior work in international business.
TEAMWORK IN MANUFACTURING: THE CASE OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
Authors: Fuxman Leonora
Published: February 2008

With the increasing technological innovation in the automotive industry, the need for complementary innovations in worker organization has arisen. In response to this need, two distinct approaches for teamwork in automotive production have been developed. This paper discusses both the Japanese and the Scandinavian teamwork models and their various implementations found among auto manufacturers worldwide. Work teams must be supported by changes in production philosophy, intensive training programs, and enhanced labor‐management relations. These complementary systems require significant investments, making team building a risky but potentially valuable venture. New insights on team building and its implications for production processes are provided.
COMPARING THE ENTRY MODE STRATEGIES OF LARGE U.S. AND JAPANESE FIRMS, 1987–1993
Authors: Mansumitrchai Somkiat , Minor Michael S. , Prasad Sameer
Published: February 2008

This study examines the pattern of entry mode strategies of large U.S. and Japanese firms in the years 1987 to 1993. By following a total of 972 transactions, we found the country of origin of the investment had the most significant effect on the entry mode strategy. Further analysis indicated that U.S. firms favor acquisitions, followed by joint ventures and startups, whereas Japanese organizations prefer joint ventures to acquisitions and startups. In general, multinational firms from both countries avoid startups. Our findings suggest that governments should encourage U.S. investment if they are seeking capital inflows, but encourage Japanese involvement if they want locals to have greater operational control.
PERCEPTIONS OF MANAGERS IN KUWAIT ABOUT MULTINATIONAL CORPORATIONS' ROLE IN CHANGING THAT COUNTRY'S BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Al‐Daeaj Hamad S. , Ebrahimi Bahman P. , Thibodeaux Mary S. , Nasif Ercan G.
Published: February 2008

Relationships between multinational corporations (MNCs) and developing nations are known to have benefits as well as costs, particularly for the host country. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of managers on the effects of MNCs on a developing nation. Using a sample of 1344 Arab and non‐Arab managers in Kuwait, the authors find the respondents perceive positive effects of MNCs on the business‐economic, legal‐political, and technological environments of the country. However, the effects of MNCs on the social‐cultural environment in Kuwait are perceived as negative. The authors recommend that MNCs operating in Kuwait be sensitive to these perceptions to ensure harmony in future business ventures.
ECONOMIC THEORY, DOMESTIC POLICIES AND LONG‐RATES: 1994, A CASE STUDY
Authors: Massaro Vincent G.
Published: February 2008

Economic fundamentals—such as economic growth, inflationary expectations, and monetary policy—cannot explain the worldwide rise in long‐term interest rates during 1994. The present paper investigates the extent to which the rise in rates was consistent with economic theory and domestic policies. It finds that it is necessary to introduce institutional factors to account for the widespread nature of the rise and the extent of the rise as well as, for some countries, the fact that long rates rose at all.
A CASE STUDY OF STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATIONS, TRADE AND POVERTY IN MALAYSIA'S SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 1960–95
Authors: Salih Thamir , Colyer Dale
Published: February 2008

Malaysia is one of the high performing economies (HPE) in Southeast Asia. It had experienced strong growth and development for the period between 1957 and 1995. Socioeconomic planning, structural and trade adjustments, and adoption of pragmatic policies that promoted agriculture as well as the manufacturing sub‐sector resulted in higher productivities, incomes and standards of living. Policymakers were also successful in adopting policies that mitigated poverty and, to a lesser extent, decreased income inequality.
A DIFFERENCE OF PERSPECTIVE: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF OMANI AND EXPATRIATE VALUES AND ATTITUDES
Authors: Kuehn Kermit W. , Al‐Busaidi Yousef
Published: February 2008

This exploratory study used data from three industrial companies (N = 85) in the Sultanate of Oman to assess the values and altitudes of entry‐level Omani and expatriate (primarily Indian) employees. Results reveal strong differences between the two groups on several variables related to life, work, and attitudes toward each other. In contrast to expatriate respondents, Omanis showed a strong preference for more ethnocentric work situations. Additionally, evidence suggested that Omani respondents were less committed to work and their current jobs. Further, personal life value rankings diverged significantly with Omanis ranking more abstract or ideal values higher than expatriates. Managerial and research implications are discussed.
ECONOMIC REFORM AND SOUTH ASIAN DEVELOPMENT: REVIEW OF LESSONS FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF EAST AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
Authors: Grabowski Richard
Published: February 2008

This paper argues that one must be careful in drawing lessons from the development experience of East and Southeast Asia. The economic strategy followed by these countries was not one of free trade, or even simulated free trade. Instead, in these countries key conditions were created which provided hospitable environments for investment coordination. It was the ensuing boom in investment which generated rapid economic development. The current economic problems of this region are not the result of corrupt states or crony capitalism, none of which are new to the region, but the result of an inability to engage in economic restructuring
THE STRUCTURE AND PRICE EFFICIENCY OF AN EMERGING MARKET
Authors: Jha Raghbendra , Nagarajan Hari K.
Published: February 2008

This paper examines market structure and efficiency of price transmittals in the two national stock exchanges of India: The Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange. Price movements in a large number of important stocks in both markets are considered. The framework used is the Johansen‐Juselius multivariate cointegration technique. It is discovered that price movements within each market are cointegrated. Short‐run ECM analysis shows that no stock in any market is exogenous, thus indicating that there is considerable feedback in short‐run price movements from each stock. Some short‐run price movements are stabilizing. The Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange appear to be reasonably efficient markets.
PRIVATIZATION AND THE GROWTH OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN BANGLADESH
Authors: Mondal Wali I.
Published: February 2008

This paper analyzes the growth of entrepreneurship in Bangladesh in relation to its Government's privatization efforts. A survey instrument was designed to elicit opinions of entrepreneurs regarding the level of privatization and the growth of entrepreneurship. The instrument was designed in such a way that the responses were dichotomous. A Discriminant Analysis was then conducted in order to classify entrepreneurs and to determine the key variables responsible for privatization and the growth (or lack of growth) of entrepreneurship. Results indicate that the non‐availability of long‐term capital, the poor state of the economy, and excessive government regulation are the three most important explanatory variables for non‐privatization and lack of growth of entrepreneurship.
EVIDENCE OF THE EFFECT OF ALTERNATIVE CONSOLIDATION ACCOUNTING TECHNIQUES ON THE FINANCIAL DECISIONS OF USERS
Authors: Singleton W.R.
Published: February 2008

An issue related to the strategic choice of organizational form for affiliated businesses is how the financial information of the affiliate will be reported. A question arises as to whether alternative methods of reporting influence user decisions. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether alternative consolidation accounting methods affected the financial decisions of users in selected countries. An experiment was conducted with student subjects in Australia, Canada and the U.S. Alternative consolidation techniques and country were the independent variables. Results indicated user responses were affected by the consolidation method. Country effects were also noted.
COMPETITIVE STRATEGY, ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING AND PERFORMANCE: A CONTEXT SPECIFIC ANALYSIS OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP
Authors: Kumar Kamalesh , Subramanian Ram , Strandholm Karen
Published: February 2008

This study examines the scanning/strategy relationship in the context‐specific setting of the health care industry. It extends the current research on the strategy/scanning relationship to include performance. Results confirm the moderating role played by environmental scanning activities in the strategy/performing relationship, thus providing further evidence for the contingency relationship among the environment, the organization's internal processes, and performance.