bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processing Business Improvement
Authors: Albitz Lisa
Published: May 2006

Argues that business process management can improve efficiency and effectiveness across each process and throughout an entire organization. Drawing mainly on experience at the NCR Corporation, the author investigated the possible causes for large‐scale resistance to TQM within quality improvement teams at every level: the article goes on to examine her conclusions. Highlights the need for organizations to show those involved with TQM just why business processes are important and to understand why quality is important. Examines resistance to change from management, with examples of illogical processes based on such resistance and suggestions for improvement. Considers the cost implications of business process management and the common lack of knowledge of who the customer actually is, with examples and suggestions. Concludes with a list of techniques for helping to sell business process management and overcoming resistance to the ensuing changes.
To sink or to swim?
Authors: McEwan William , El‐Araby Sherif
Published: May 2006

Shipbuilding has been slow to adopt TQM practices, but the author argues that recession is forcing the industry to consider quality techniques as a matter of survival. Charts the progress of the shipbuilding industry over the past 20 years, including the worldwide decline in shipyard capacity, and the types of problem found in modern shipyards among management and the various departments involved. Suggests ways in which shipbuilding can embrace the TQM philosophy, including management commitment and support and a fresh emphasis on the customer ‐ however the customer is defined. Predicts the likely outcome of such a policy, with the attendant benefits in efficiency and satisfaction, and suggests methods of assessing these gains. Concludes that the time has come for shipbuilding to explore TQM as a matter of urgency.
Making Customer Satisfaction Your Biggest Profit Centre
Authors: Morris Paul
Published: May 2006

Companies that adopt a profit‐centre based approach to customer
service treat it as an element of total corporate philosophy, rather
than as a separate activity or a set of performance measures. Ten
reasons why companies should make such a commitment are presented.
Research and the Preparation of Educational Administrators
Authors: Miskel Cecil
Published: May 2006

The intention is to review the literature dealing with the role and
status of research in preparation programmes for educational
administrators, and to generate alternative ways to incorporate research
into the programmes. To guide the reviews and to generate alternatives,
a framework consisting of three categories is used – a historical
perspective, the knowledge base and faculty orientations. A primary
conclusion is that educational administration must not only improve the
quality and increase the quantity of research, but programmes must also
be changed to include research in central and coherent ways.
A Rationale for the Use of Semi‐structured Interviews
Authors: Carruthers John
Published: May 2006

Data for research studies are often gathered by using
questionnaires. These data will be enhanced by interviewing a sample of
the respondents. Inexperienced thesis and dissertation writers can meet
with difficulties which are beyond their competence in the interview
stage. A solution to this problem is described. Relevant literature was
perused in the hope that guidance would be found in dealing with lack of
expertise in interviewing, and at the same time, encourage the beginner
to undertake the task. The suggested solution, derived from the
literature, was the use of semi‐structured interviews.
Rationality, Imagination and Advocacy in Educational
Research
Authors: Simpkins William S.
Published: May 2006

Enterprising projects require a mixture of the imaginative and
rational, not the rejection of one in favour of the other. Where a clear
distinction is made, the imaginative and rational may support different
doctrines on how knowledge and understanding should be acquired. Where
attempts are made to draw on both as analytic and creative resources,
e.g. as in the qualitative treatment of new social data, researchers may
have the task of developing a complementary approach to social enquiry
which combines objectivity with intuition and detachment with feelings
of rapport. The data obtained often require an advocacy approach to
argument, one where a persuasive line of argument is designed to
establish the relative strength of a case in what may well be an
adversarial context of claims and counter‐claims. Where research deals
with various kinds of evidence, e.g. objective and subjective, research
methods must be argued as compatible with a research problem and its
context, and not dictated arbitrarily by research doctrine. An example
is given of what is claimed to be a rational, linear approach to
developing the internal logic of a research report; the claim is
discussed that rationality and imagination may be complementary in
speculative research; and an advocacy approach to presenting a research
case is discussed.
Administrative Reform and the Egyptian Ministry of
Education
Authors: Hanson E. Mark
Published: May 2006

The difference between developed and less developed countries
resides to a great extent in the effectiveness of their administrative
systems. The objective of this study is to identify and analyse the
organisational constraints acting upon and within the Egyptian Ministry
of Education that deter its capacity for administrative reform. Critical
management processes are examined, such as policy formation, promotion
procedures, planning, resource distribution, and local level decision
making. Field visits to several regional school systems, as well as
interviews with most of the senior ministry officials, were carried out
by a team of American and Egyptian researchers. The research is
significant because it provides a close examination of a system closed
to most Western researchers. The administrative structure of the
Ministry will be of interest to scholars because, even though it is
highly bureaucratic, it operates with relative efficiency. However, what
it cannot do with any degree of effectiveness is change the educational
system from its long‐established patterns.
Moral Imagination and the Philosophy of School Leadership
Authors: Maxcy Spencer J. , Caldas Stephen J.
Published: May 2006

An increasingly popular argument proposes that the problems in
public schooling may be solved through stronger, more morally
imaginative leadership. School administrators ought to set forth a
vision growing out of this moral responsibility, and may be trained to
utilise moral imagination in directing teachers and students towards
certain moral visions. A critique of the argument is presented and
alternative (and conflicting) meanings of “moral
imagination” surveyed. Four models of moral imagination are
located: as discovery; as moral authority; as faculty of mind, and as
super science. It is argued that each of these conceptions has inherent
difficulties. The logical relationship of these views is explored. The
notion of “school leadership” is traced in the literature as
it has been attached to “moral imagination”. The work of W.
Greenfield is examined and a philosophy of school administration, with
certain assumptions, regarding values and authority, that reveal key
difficulties for the unfettered use of “moral imagination”
in school administration, is found. It is concluded that “moral
imagination” ought to be replaced with “critical
imagination”, coupled with “democratic value
deliberation” and by so doing a richer leadership will result,
leading to the empowerment of teachers and a fuller serving of the
public good.
Implications of Preparing School Administrators for
Knowledge Work Organizations: A Case Study
Authors: Mulkeen Thomas A. , Cooper Bruce S.
Published: May 2006

Based on a university department of educational administration′s
initiative to reconceptualize its doctoral degree programme, the
reconstructed model is based on four innovations: (1) an intellectual
reconceptualization of the purpose of preparation away from the
traditional manager in training perspective, towards a model that views
school leadership as a shared, reflective, moral, intellectual activity;
(2) a clinical, field‐based research experience that applies theory to
practice; (3) an instructional programme, modelling active
problem‐solving models of enquiry; (4) some new structural elements,
such as a cohort of highly stationed, mid‐career administrators, each
scheduled to complete the degree in three years. Focuses on the
programme′s philosophy, curriculum, instructional design and research
agenda.
The Changing Role of Principals in Primary and Secondary
Schools in Belgium
Authors: Vandenberghe Roland
Published: May 2006

Explores two interesting areas for understanding the changing roles
of principals. Describes, first, some changes in the political structure
and in the educational policy which make clear that primary and
secondary school principals are confronted with a turbulent policy
environment; second, during the last 20 years, schools and principals
have been involved in so‐called large‐scale improvement projects. Using
research data illustrates what the consequences are for principals, and
how they restructure their activities. From these analyses, it is
obvious that in the coming years principals are expected to legitimate
their local policy.
The New ″Revolution″ in Administrative Theory
Authors: Owens Robert G. , Shakeshaft Charol
Published: May 2006

Forty years ago the so‐called “theory movement” took
root in educational administration because it so fundamentally broke
with the past, replacing trial‐and‐error experience with analysis and
research in an effort to improve our understanding of educational
organizations and how to manage them. Fuelled by support from private
foundations and, eventually, the US federal government, this landmark
development in administrative and organizational theory altered the way
in which universities taught educational administration. In the
educational reform movement of the 1980s, however, the established and
time‐honoured theoretic concepts of the past four decades – with
their emphasis on mathematical proof and ways of thinking borrowed from
laboratory science – gave way to newer, richer ways of
understanding organizations and thinking about them. Describes the
emerging new directions in organizational and administrative theory and
where they are taking us.
Computer Technology for Qualitative Research: Hope and
Humbug
Authors: Tallerico Marilyn
Published: May 2006

Describes how microcomputer technology for processing textual data
offers new options for the qualitative researcher in educational
administration. Both the potential benefits and the limitations of such
computer‐assisted procedures are identified. The discussion is
illuminated by examples drawn from a study specific to local educational
governance in the USA. Although addressing the composite qualities of
the genre of microcomputer software known as “text analysis
programs”, the particular product featured in the examples is The
ETHNOGRAPH – widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated, yet
user‐friendly programs for qualitative data analysis currently available
for personal computers.
Inner City Teachers′ Work and the Assessment, Placement and Ongoing Education of Immigrant Children
Authors: Reid Charlotte , Young Jon
Published: May 2006

Focuses on the needs of recent immigrant children in Canadian cities. Outlines the problems teachers face in the assessment, placement in classes and teaching of recent immigrant children in a Winnipeg area elementary school. Suggests that there should be specific policies relating to the education of these children taking into account the sociological realities of school life. The policies should provide a context and the resources to support school and classroom practices that enable teachers to define and operationalize sound educational experiences for immigrant children.
Devolution of Responsibility to Queensland Schools:
Clarifying the Rhetoric, Critiquing the Reality
Authors: Burke Clarrie
Published: May 2006

Presents a case study of the emergence and early stages of
implementation of Queensland Education Department′s policy for
devolution of responsibility to State Schools. Has four major purposes:
to clarify the rhetoric by which the Department has developed and
promoted its devolution policy; critically to examine the efficacy of
the policy when it is “played out”, in
“reality”, at the “school face”; to explore
possible positive outcomes of the policy, potential impediments (within
the Department and school community), and prerequisites to effective
implementation; and to consider what is needed in pre‐service teacher
education to enable future teachers readily to function in a
school‐based organizational context. The “message” which
emerges from these considerations is that stakeholders at all levels
need to be vigilant observers, watching for inconsistencies as they
develop, between the rhetoric and the reality of devolution policy in
practice – in particular, “regression” towards
centralized, bureaucratic control. Proposes an approach to a safeguard
mechanism which could be applied at regular intervals. Poses questions
at two levels: at the system level and at the level of the community at
large.
La Trobe and Lincoln Merger: The Process and Outcome
Authors: Gamage D.T.
Published: May 2006

The recent Australian reforms in higher education envisaged the
creation of a unified national system at the expense of the binary
system with a smaller number of larger institutions through
institutional mergers. The Green Paper quoted the La Trobe‐Lincoln
merger as an example. Based on an evaluation of relevant archival
material and interviews with most of the key personnel of both
institutions and the merged university, examines the key issues which
delayed the merger for seven years, the goals and the academic rationale
set with outcomes of this process within the first two years after the
formal merger along with future trends.
Traditional Property Financing in Germany
Authors: von Schenck Kersten
Published: May 2006

Describes who provides traditional financing in Germany. Discusses
terms and collateral. Overviews the German Land Register.
The Receiver′s Duty of Care
Authors: Lavers Anthony
Published: May 2006

Considers recent case law to the effect that duties of care may be
owed by those engaged in administration and sale of assets to people
affected by the outcome of their efforts. Considers potential liability
of professionals, particularly chartered surveyors advising on such
disposals. Concludes that a receiver′s duty of care should be regarded
as equivalent to that of mortgagee.
Raising Commercial Property Finance in a Difficult Market
Authors: Berkley Richard
Published: May 2006

Reviews the property finance market over the years immediately
preceding 1990. Offers suggestions about why the traditional sources of
finance appear to have dried up. Considers alternative facilities and
instruments available to the investor and developer. Concludes that
finance for good quality investment and development projects remains
available.
The Management of Interest Rate Exposure
Authors: Mitchell Chris , Peake Janine H.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the adverse effect on some types of companies when
exposed to fluctuations in interest rates. Discusses the different sorts
of tools available to protect against fluctuations: forward rate
agreements, interest rate swaps and interest rate options. Concludes
that whatever option or combination of options is or is not taken, a
purely passive approach carries the greatest risk.
An Approach to Mortgage Valuations
Authors: Robinson John
Published: May 2006

Discusses factors affecting mortgage evaluations: first, debt and
equity; second, development and investment finance; third, valuation and
investment analysis; fourth, capitalization and cash flow analysis; and
fifth, lenders security. Explains the use of various approaches by means
of an example. Demonstrates the advantage of using a range of measures,
against a more traditional approach based on optimistic data.
City Grant
Authors: Beattie Richard A.
Published: May 2006

Describes the operation and objectives of City Grant, its purpose
and background. Gives some practical examples of its workings. Discusses
general principles of discretionary grants.
The Use of Deep Discount and Zero Coupon Bonds in the UK
Property Market – 2
Authors: Shayle Anthony
Published: May 2006

Notes there has been a growing awareness of the need to introduce
hybrid financial instruments to the property financing market including
deep discount, zero coupon and stepped bonds (DDBs). Considers what
terms are typically available and where and how they may be applied.
Concludes that the rewards which flow from the use of DDBs can be
significant in terms of running yield and redemption value and, if they
are traded in the Euro or domestic market, may be considered liquid.
Interim Statements: Room for Improvement
Authors: Holmes Geoffrey
Published: May 2006

Reviews the current system of interim statements of listed company
accounts. Suggests ways in which it could be changed to advantage.
Concludes that only if shareholders and analysts press for better
information will it be forthcoming.
Priority of Security and Subordinations
Authors: Saward Julie
Published: May 2006

Outlines the framework of subordination of secured loans. Covers
the variation of priority of security, subordination techniques, payment
freezes on the junior debt, trustees of security, guarantee clauses and
the freedom of action of the senior creditor. Suggests that, in addition
to the commonly used deeds varying the priorities of security, the more
sophisticated technique of turnover subordination can be usefully
adapted for property finance.
Mansard PLC – A Case Study in Recovery
Authors: Robinson Colin R.
Published: May 2006

Introduces Mansard, a well‐established construction company that
has become increasingly involved in both property development and
property investment. Notes that during 1990 its activities had been
unable to sustain an adequate cash flow and increasing borrowing had to
be viewed against falling asset values. Examines various means of
improving the company′s position. Suggests a package of measures aimed
at saving the company and setting it up with a long‐term future.
Recent European Community Legislation Concerning the
Environment
Authors: Webster Philip
Published: May 2006

Outlines certain current aspects of European law relating to the
environment. Includes discussion of material building works, other
infrastructure projects and disposal of waste. Suggests possible
consequences for property developers, lenders of finance and property
investors.
Institutionally Acceptable Properties
Authors: Lineham Gerard
Published: May 2006

Considers what types of property may be institutionally acceptable
for investment purposes in the 1990s. Looks at both the current state of
the UK property market and the strategy which potential institutional
investors may be expected to pursue. Predicts that property returns will
converge with UK equity returns within two to three years and may
sustain an advantage over the next ten years.
Financial Problems in a Development Contract
Authors: Fletcher Ian M.
Published: May 2006

Considers wrongful trading and the company′s position in its
dealings with third parties when facing the possibility of insolvency.
Explains the legal considerations, the disqualification of directors and
preferences and transactions at an undervalue. Offers practical
suggestions for a developer or contractor when the other is facing
financial difficulties.
Leasing Developments in the UK Brewing Industry
Authors: Temple Peter
Published: May 2006

Notes that major brewers and some regional operators are now
replacing traditional tenancy agreements with assignable commercial
leases. Examines the background to these developments, the differences
between the leasing arrangements now being offered and some of the
problems so far encountered. Concludes that, courtesy of the Monopolies
Commission, the very evident need for improved returns on capital for
the big brewers means that assignable leases are here to stay.
The Globalization of Finance Capital and the Changing
Relationships Between Property and Finance – 2
Authors: Pugh Cedric
Published: May 2006

Covers the globalization of finance and reforms in property
finance. Discusses property and the revolution in finance. Suggests an
international perspective is able to offer increased yields and to
diversify property portfolios. Concludes that property has come of age
as a globalized financial investment making its characteristics more
complex than they were.
THE DEVELOPING INTERNATIONALISATION OF RETAILING
Authors: Treadgold Alan D.
Published: May 2006

The internationalisation of retailing has been a facet of retail
developments in recent years and will continue to be of importance to
companies in the 1990s. The forces which encourage retailers to
“go international”, the scale of international presence and
the strategies employed to enter new markets are identified. Finally,
possible trends in the future are discussed.
GAINING A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN FASHION RETAILING
Authors: Lewis Barbara R. , Hawksley Angela W.
Published: May 2006

In the turbulent world of fashion retailing, competitive advantage
is achieved by first targeting not simply in terms of demographics but
also in terms of lifestyle and attitude to fashion, and secondly by
creating a store image congruent with that of the target market. The
findings of past studies are brought together and the results of a
lifestyle and store image questionnaire which was administered to
customers of a well‐known retail fashion chain in the UK are presented
Analysis was focused on lifestyle and store image and included the
identification of clusters of customers with similar profiles.
ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE IN THE RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN: THE
DISTRIBUTION CONTRACTOR′S ROLE
Authors: McKinnon Alan C.
Published: May 2006

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) can bring many benefits. It
allows orders, invoices and other commercial information to be relayed
directly between different firms′ computer networks. Distribution
contractors must, like the suppliers, become integrated into these EDI
networks.
BRITISH RETAIL ACQUISITIONS IN THE US
Authors: Hamill Jim , Crosbie John
Published: May 2006

Despite the euphoria surrounding 1992, the recent international
expansion of British retail organisations has been oriented mainly
towards the US. Such expansion has predominantly taken the form of the
acquisition of US retailers, rather than through the establishment of
greenfield stores. As a consequence of their US acquisitions, a number
of British retailers are now well established across the Atlantic. Some
reorientation of the geographical focus of British retail acquisitions
abroad, however, may be necessary to reap the expected benefits of the
Single European Market. British retail acquisitions in the US are
examined in the years between 1984 and 1989 with particular emphasis on
acquisition strategy, motivations, performance and the impact of 1992.
PRIVATE SECTOR RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS PUBLIC SECTOR INFLUENCES
Authors: Hallsworth A.G.
Published: May 2006

A study is reported of West Edmonton Mall and Gateshead Metro
Centre; the two shopping centres that are, respectively, the largest in
the world and the largest in Europe. Examination of the background to
the two developments reveals that public sector inputs to these
“entrepreneurial” developments have been substantial. As
with downtown revitalisation in the USA, the centres either gained
substantial “enabling” funding from public sources, or carry
with them the implication of infrastructural changes that must be
publicly funded.
UK RETAILER VERTICAL POWER, MARKET COMPETITION AND CONSUMER
WELFARE
Authors: Howe W.S.
Published: May 2006

Vertical trading relations between retailers and their suppliers
are an important determinant of competition, strategy and performance in
a number of sectors in the economy, and thus strongly influence consumer
welfare. The balance of vertical power between retailers and
manufacturers has changed over the past 20 or 30 years to confer more
influence on retailers, and this has had a number of obvious outcomes in
terms of retailer influence on product design and advertising, including
own‐label goods. Other changes, such as increasingly beneficial terms of
trade for large‐scale retailers in some sectors and the deterioration in
manufacturer profitability, have led to government enquiry into
particular sectors, and demands from some parties for a legislative
response to perceived problems. The article suggests that while there is
room for improvement in UK retailing performance, the outcomes for
consumer welfare of changes in the vertical balance of power in markets
are more difficult to assess.
THE PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS FOR FRANCHISING IN THE ARABIAN
PENINSULA: THE CASE OF SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Tuncalp Secil
Published: May 2006

This article examines the current status of franchising in Saudi
Arabia. Despite the fact that Saudi Arabia exhibits some attractive
characteristics for an intensive penetration of this form of
distribution, franchising has made a limited appearance in some major
cities of the Kingdom, primarily in the fastfood services area. After
reviewing the history of the franchising scene in Saudi Arabia and
identifying some of the prominent participants in this area, the article
describes a number of problems that could be hindering a more successful
exploitation of franchising in the Kingdom. Some practical solutions are
also outlined.
DIFFERENTIAL FIRM ADVANTAGES AND RETAILER
INTERNATIONALISATION
Authors: Williams David E.
Published: May 2006

Retailer internationalisation (RI) is lacking in detailed empirical
research. What is available ignores the critical factors important to
the success of retailers operating internationally. Consequently, this
exploratory study attempts to unearth various factors, labelled
Differential Firm Advantages (DFA), vital to the smooth performance and
competitive differentiation of international retail operations. The
nature and attributes of DFAs, with specific reference to retailing, are
reviewed and subsequent survey results reveal certain DFAs can be
regarded as prerequisites for retailers operating in international
markets. The underlying structure of differential advantages is also
examined, giving the study a further unique dimension. Performance in
international markets appears to depend upon the balanced integration of
various compatible DFAs. Indeed past experiences show certain UK‐based
international retailers have had problems in achieving this equilibrium.
SHOPPING TRIPS BY BUS AND COACH
Authors: Dean Christopher J.
Published: May 2006

Travel by bus and coach for shopping purposes has been somewhat
neglected within retailing and transport studies in the United Kingdom.
In an attempt to examine the role of public road transport,
consideration is given to findings from the Government′s five National
Travel Surveys which highlight in particular the contribution of
scheduled local bus services in the population′s shopping behaviour. It
is suggested that the total number of shopping trips made by bus is
quite buoyant, despite the declining share of public transport overall
in the nation′s travel movements. Little attention has yet been directed
to people who use excursion coaches for their shopping trips. Fresh
evidence from southern England suggests a considerable use of this mode
of travel. Distances covered are often quite substantial, with
destinations including both conventional and out‐of‐town shopping
centres.
The Role of Packaging in International Logistics
Authors: Lancioni Richard A. , Chandran Rajan
Published: May 2006

The smooth operation of a logistics system in an international
environment requires careful planning on the
part of the firm. All aspects have to be planned for
and every possible contingency examined. Once the
shipment leaves the shipper′s dock it is out of his control
until it arrives at the consignee′s location. International
logistics systems work best when all the possible
interfaces are planned for. One of the most important
areas is packaging. It is the package that will determine
whether the product arrives at a customer′s location
in proper condition. It is the package that will give the
transportation company the information it needs to
move the product to the proper customer location.
Organisational Approaches to Managing International Sourcing
Authors: Giunipero Larry C. , Monczka Robert M.
Published: May 2006

Analysis of the organisational structures utilised to
conduct international purchasing activities was
undertaken at 24 multinational corporations. The
majority of the corporations studied
had decentralised purchasing organisations and all had
corporate purchasing staffs. Four basic approaches
were found: (1) totally decentralised; (2) co‐ordinated;
(3) totally centralised; and (4) separate
international purchasing group. Within this overall
framework there were several forms of staff
assistance to assist operating units effectively
accomplish their international purchasing goals. This
assistance included foreign buying offices, trading
companies and international staff specialists. There
was also a common philosophy which indicated the
necessity of worldwide sourcing.
Management Sophistication and Service Performance
Authors: Marr Norman E.
Published: May 2006

The degree of association between sophistication in distribution
management and service performance differs across industries. While
there are significant associations with some of the indicators of
management sophistication in all three industries used in this study,
there was no consistency in the results. The only industry for which
there was statistical support for a positive association between
management sophistication and service performance is foodstuffs. Even
this only indicates poor service providers were less sophisticated
management. For all three industry groups there is evidence that
factors, other than the level of management sophistication, have
influenced the service rankings. The differences in the relevant
importance of customer service and the various elements of distribution
service may be one such factor. The inconclusiveness of association
results may have been contributed to by the failure to take into account
inter‐relationships between various subsets of management variables.
Life‐cycle Patterns in Industrial Buyer‐Seller Partnerships
Authors: Ellram Lisa M.
Published: May 2006

The use of a life‐cycle framework is explored as a means of
describing the evolution of partnership relationships between industrial
buyers and sellers. Based on case studies of eight manufacturing firms,
industrial buyer‐seller partnerships evolve through four stages:
development, commitment, integration and dissolution. In addition to
exploring a “traditional” life‐cycle pattern, case studies
are used to illustrate and support examples of variations on the
traditional partnership life‐cycle pattern. The life‐cycle analogy is
useful to both practitioners and theorists in developing, understanding
and influencing the patterns which industrial buyer‐seller partnerships
may follow.
Effect of Industry Type on Inventory Investments and Structure: The Egyptian Case
Authors: Tawfik Mady M.
Published: May 2006

Both inventory investments and structure in a sample of 44
manufacturing companies representing five industry groups in Egypt are
investigated. The study reveals that the type of industry is a
determinant factor of both the inventory‐to‐total‐assets ratio (AIR) and
the inventory structure at the firm level. AIR indicates significant
positive correlation with the materials cost ratio (MCR), the finished
product inventory ratio (FPR), and the “others” inventory
ratio (OTR), but a negative correlation with the raw materials inventory
ratio (RMR). The study shows that raw materials and purchased components
deserve the most attention in Egyptian industry. The study also shows a
negative correlation between RMR and the company′s value added (VAD).
With more vertical integration a firm can reduce its RMR. The study
confirms the effect of the type of production‐inventory system on the
company′s work‐in‐process inventory Requirements (WPR). WPR was
relatively low in both the engineering and food groups.
Dynamic Vehicle Scheduling: An Expert Systems Approach
Authors: Bagchi Prabir K. , Nag Barin N.
Published: May 2006

The dynamic vehicle scheduling problem for a shipper involves
managing transport of freight originating at various locations to
minimise transport costs. The job involves dynamic assignment of
vehicles contracted from carriers to loads available at multiple
locations on a real time basis. A framework for building a PC‐based
expert system to be used as a decision support system is provided. An
example expert scheduling system (EXLOAD) built on VP EXPERT, a PC‐based
expert system shell is also shown.
Interset Association between Measures of Customer Service and Market Response
Authors: Mohan Pisharodi R. , Langley C. John
Published: May 2006

Customer service is often described as consisting of a set of
measurable elements. Similarly, market response to customer service may
be viewed as consisting of a set of components which are measurable.
Most published empirical studies of the relationship between customer
service and market response, however, have represented market response
through the use of a single measure. The results of an empirical study
of interset association between two sets of measures, one representing
the elements of customer service (measured in service levels) and the
other representing various forms of market response, are reported.
Canonical correlation analysis of data collected from 91 grocery channel
dyads indicated (as expected) a closer association of market response
with customer perceptions of customer service than with supplier
perceptions of the same. Also presented, is the contribution of
individual measures to the close association between market response and
customer perceptions of customer service.
Organisational Structure in Divisionalised Manufacturers: The Potential for Outsourcing Logistical Services
Authors: Daugherty Patricia J. , Dröge Cornelia
Published: May 2006

In recent years, more firms have chosen to use outside service
vendors to provide at least a portion of their logistical support
requirements. The analysis presents projected usage trends for selected
services as identified by logistics executives. Differences in
anticipated usage levels of external logistical services were found when
firms of different organisational structure were examined.
Big Y takes pride in its work
Authors: Driscoll Monda
Published: May 2006

Discusses how a US supermarket chain, Big Y Foods, proves even part‐timers can be motivated with PRIDE to exceed customers′ evolving expectations. Describes how, from the moment of hiring, employees are encouraged to suggest better ways to do the job of serving the customer. Outlines the steps towards achieving employee involvement, including an introduction to Partnership, Recognition, Involvement, Drive and Excellence (PRIDE), and how this ties in with the quality circle process. Asserts that employee involvement, training and development complement each other, and will motivate employees to seek better ways to create and deliver service and value.
Cheers...
Authors: Lunn Terry
Published: May 2006

Describes how Joshua Tetley′s “Quality Pays” programme illustrates that the only way to achieve a real, sustainable competitive edge, is to commit the company to a service‐driven organisation. Traces the development of the Quality Pays programme and the need to develop an infrastructure to facilitate Quality Pays as an on‐going process. Describes the programmes basic aims and the training involved. Lists six key ingredients which enable companies to maintain the momentum and avoid some of the pitfalls of earlier quality service initiatives. Asserts that following these six ingredients should enable companies to develop a culture based on the premise that the customer is always right.
Newer and better ways
Authors: Hirst M.
Published: May 2006

Presents the findings of research carried out by Hilton International into its customers′ and employees′ attitudes and expectations; describes the company′s subsequent actions. Looks at how employee empowerment and the creation of ′The Hilton Promise′ have lead to significant improvements in service quality. Describes ′The Hilton Club′ ‐ a database of guests′ information and preferences which allows staff to cater to guests′ needs before they even arrive.
Quality of care and service
Authors: Koch H.
Published: May 2006

Outlines key aspects of quality management in the National Health Service and how basic changes to health care, through ′contracting′ processes, will lead to distinct improvements for both patient care and organizational efficiency and productivity.
Motivation and problem‐solving
Authors: Edwards D. , Clutterbuck D.
Published: May 2006

States that only those quality programmes which concentrate on motivating employees to face and tackle problems stand a significant chance of succeeding. Defines the four main ′tools′ of self‐discipline critical to successful problem‐solving ‐ delaying gratification, acceptance of responsibility, dedication to reality, and balancing ‐ and reveals how to promote these qualities in employees so that ultimately they become ′problem hounds′.
Steering towards marketing
Authors: Fletcher B.
Published: May 2006

Questions why marketing has not played a central role in the development and implementation of TQM programmes. Argues for a greater collaboration between the two areas which would prove beneficial to both sides and gives examples of how this can be implemented.
A force for change
Authors: Collins T.
Published: May 2006

Outlines the Metropolitan Police′s approach towards developing performance indicators to assist in gauging the quality of their service and the use of surveys as an indicator of public satisfaction. Details the ′PLUS′ Programme and its natural progression into Total Quality Management. Concludes with a list of demands likely to be made of management during the planning and implementation of a TQM programme.
Confidence to Cope
Authors: Lamplugh Diana
Published: May 2006

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust was set up after the headlined
disappearance of a young estate agent, the author of the article and
founder of the trust is Suzy Lamplugh′s mother. Aggression and violence
in the workplace are discussed; women are seen not to be the
risk factor of popular myth. Violence at work is a people problem. The
Trust′s work includes research, publicity and the organisation of
workplace training. The core of training is twofold: psychological
(dealing with anxiety, attitudes and assertiveness) and practical
(dealing with avoidance, anticipation and appropriate physical control
of aggressors).
WOMEN IN ENTERPRISE: PARTNERS BY THE YEAR 2000?
Authors: Jones Mary
Published: May 2006

A number of important issues facing women
and women in enterprise are examined.
Gender‐related problems often place women
at a disadvantage in setting up or running
their own businesses. An empirical study of
female entrepreneurs in a rural area identified
a number of significant factors. The majority
of women interviewed were utilising skills
acquired from further and higher education,
training and employment. To meet the
challenge of the 1990s, the needs of women
for education, training and a greater share of
resources must be recognised. Women in the
UK receive more support than women in
some European countries. Those most in
need of education, training and support are
the women of the Third World. Men and
women must become partners: the
development of the human race depends on
this partnership. “Women in Enterprise” have
a key role to play in this partnership – throughout
the world.
A COGNITIVE LEARNING PERSPECTIVE ON WOMEN BECOMING EXPERT MANAGERS
Authors: Horgan Dianne D.
Published: May 2006

Despite recent gains, women still face the
“glass ceiling” – an invisible barrier that
blocks their entry into top executive
positions. Explanations for women′s lack of
success range from blaming men for
discrimination to blaming women themselves.
Rather than blaming the people in
organisations, it is useful to analyse the task
facing women managers. It is argued that
understanding the inherent difficulties in
women′s work can provide a new perspective
on why women have difficulty in achieving
top positions. Recent work in cognitive
psychology is helping us learn more about
the processes involved in reaching high levels
of performance. Using these theories and
concepts to analyse the task facing women
managers, new ways can be developed to help
women develop higher levels of managerial
skill.
A COMPARISON OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF FEMALE MANAGERS AND
FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS
Authors: White Barbara , Cox Charles
Published: May 2006

As part of a more extensive study designed to establish the
characteristics of women who have succeeded in the male‐dominated world
of management and entrepreneurship three questionnaires were used to
assess gender identity, creative style and political style. These
characteristics are thought to have a fundamental influence upon the
career behaviour of women. Three main objectives are put forward: first,
to present a number of ideas about the possible political style,
creative style and gender identity of women managers and entrepreneurs;
secondly, to present a discussion of the findings and their significance
in relation to the behaviour of women at work and, finally, to attempt
to illustrate that all three measures identify a common characteristic,
that is, “independence of thought” which it is suggested may
be essential for women operating in the male‐dominated world of work.
SENIOR WOMEN MANAGERS WHO LEAVE EMPLOYMENT
Authors: Marshall Judi
Published: May 2006

The phenomenon of senior women managers who leave their jobs with
no plans for next steps in their careers is focused on. Their stories
are seen as possible “test cases” of women′s progress into
management. There are some suggestions, particularly from North America,
that such cases are on the increase. Organisational cultures are still
largely dominated by male values and norms of behaviour; their
resilience to change helps explain the scarcity of women at senior
levels. How cultures operate to marginalise and exclude women,
particularly when they near culture‐shaping levels, is explored. Studies
from North America on women leaving senior jobs are reviewed. These
support the suggestion that issues of culture are involved. Finally, a
research project in this area is outlined, and an invitation made for
people to contribute.
WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT IN CANADA: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
PROSPECTS
Authors: Burke Ronald J.
Published: May 2006

The past, present and future status of women in management, and
women in management research, in Canada is examined. Women have entered
the Canadian workforce in unprecedented numbers, including managerial
and professional ranks. Increasing numbers of women have prepared
themselves for career advancement through business education and
additional years of work experience but, despite these developments,
women continue to find it difficult to attain senior management ranks.
Research initiatives as well as development activities designed to
assist both managerial and professional women and their employing
organisations are discussed. Despite some reasons for optimism, further
gains will continue to be made only slowly.
PARADOX: MYTH AND REALITY OF WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT IN THE US
Authors: Dexter Carolyn R.
Published: May 2006

The paradox is identified of the few women who attain high
managerial positions compared with public perceptions of extensive
occupational progress on the part of women entering the labourforce. In
accounting for this paradox the status of research and theory on women
in management in the US is described, gaps in this knowledge identified,
explanations offered for the current state of development, and prospects
for the future are considered.
Human Resources, Factor Intensity and Comparative Advantage of ASEAN
Authors: Chowdhury A. , Kirkpatrick C.H.
Published: May 2006

The article examines the impact of changing human resource
endowments on the factor intensity and commodity composition of
manufacturing exports in the ASEAN economies. There is evidence that
skill and human capital endowments over the period 1970‐83 have
increased, and that this rise in the quality of the labour force has
influenced the factor use pattern in the manufacturing sector, as
reflected in the shift towards relatively more skill‐intensive forms of
production. The evidence on the human resource orientation of ASEAN
exports is also consistent with the notion that increased human capital
endowments have influenced the factor intensity of manufactured exports,
although in some cases this tendency is exaggerated by the high growth
in capital‐intensive intermediate imports. The findings of the article
are consistent with the argument that policy directed towards the
development of human capital can make a significant contribution in
enabling an economy to develop the production and trade structures
needed to retain its international competitive advantage.
A Model of UK Personal Sector Holdings of Capital Uncertain
Assets
Authors: Barr D.G. , Cuthbertson K.
Published: May 2006

A systems approach is applied to UK personal sector holdings of
unit trusts, UK company securities, public‐sector long‐term debt and
overseas securities. In the long run, asset holdings are determined
primarily by hedging considerations but in the short run there is
evidence of speculative activity. Asset shares are influenced by
relative yields (including capital gains), inflation, and real
expenditure. A two‐step estimation procedure is used: a set of
cointegration vectors are estimated for asset shares and dynamics are
represented by a systems error feedback model. The four equation system
is broadly consonant with the data and coefficient estimates are
intuitively acceptable.
A Negative Income Tax in The Netherlands? A General and
Emancipatory Point of View
Authors: Paulus A.T.G.
Published: May 2006

Could an alternative system of income maintenance overcome the
existing inequitable and inefficient situation, which effectively limits
women′s options in the labour market in The Netherlands? This question
is approached by describing an alternative system of income maintenance
in the form of a negative income tax. Both prospects and limitations of
a negative income tax system for Dutch society, from the point of view
of this society in general and from an emancipatory point of view in
particular, are explored.
Getting Ready for the 1990s
Authors: Collins Duncan
Published: May 2006

The ways available for businesses, both small and large, to obtain
help and advice from Management Consultancies through the Government′s
Training Agency are discussed, and an actual case study in which the
procedures and outcome are discussed in detail is cited.
Effective Set Advising in Action Learning Programmes
Authors: Bennett Roger
Published: May 2006

Some of the key points to emerge from a meeting of the
International Management Centres′ action learning set advisers in 1989
are summarised. Two main areas are addressed: the qualities of an
effective set adviser, and what can help set advisers in their role.