bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating a parameter of Burr type XII distribution using hybrid censored observations
Authors: Rastogi Manoj Kumar , Mani Tripathi Yogesh
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Burr distribution has been proved to be a useful failure model. It can assume different shapes which allow it to be a good fit for various lifetimes data. Hybrid censoring is an important way of generating lifetimes data. The purpose of this paper is to estimate an unknown parameter of the Burr type XII distribution when data are hybrid censored.

Design/methodology/approach

The problem is dealt with through both the classical and Bayesian point of view. Specifically, the methods of estimation used to tackle the problem are maximum likelihood estimation method and Bayesian method. Empirical Bayesian approach is also considered. The performance of all estimates is compared through their mean square error values. The paper employs Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the mean square error values of all estimates.

Findings

The key findings of the paper are that the Bayesian estimates are superior to the maximum likelihood estimates (MLE).

Practical implications

This work has practical importance. Indeed, the proposed methods are applied to real life data.

Originality/value

The paper is original and is quite applicable in lifetimes data analysis.
Reliability analysis of repairable consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n: G systems with sensor and repairmen
Authors: Krishnan Ragi , Somasundaram S.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study repairable consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n: systems with r repairmen and a sensing device.

Design/methodology/approach

The system can either be a circular C(k, n: G) system or a linear C(k, n: G) system. The working time and the repair time of each component in the system and the sensor detection time are exponentially distributed. Every component after repair is perfect. Each component is classified as either a key component, or an ordinary one according to its priority role to system's repair. A sensing device is introduced to detect the failure of each component in the system in advance and completion of repair of components. If the repair is completed, the sensor will send the component to standby according to its priority. The state transition probabilities of the system are derived using the definition of generalized transition probability. To obtain the reliability and availability Laplace transform techniques have been used.

Findings

The Kolmogorov‐Feller forward equations are derived for both linear and circular systems. Reliability and MTTF of both the systems are derived using Laplace transforms. Numerical examples are given in detail to demonstrate the theoretical results and these verify the validity of the studied system.

Research limitations/implications

A consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n system consists of a sequence of n‐ordered components along a line or a circle such that the system is good if and only if at least k consecutive components in the system are good. Each component in the system is classified as key component or ordinary component according to its priority in system functioning. By using a sensing device the failure can be detected in advance.

Originality/value

This study indicates that by using a sensing device we can detect the failure in advance. Thus, the reliability and MTTF of the system can be improved.
Performance leadership: managing for flexibility
Authors: Wilkes John , Yip George , Simmons Kevin
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Many multi‐business companies apply one performance management approach to all their businesses despite differing needs. This study proposes a flexible approach to managing performance that allows for variation across businesses and over time.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a study of over 100 consulting projects in performance management and interviews at 15 major organisations.

Findings

The best way to simplify performance management is to recognize that it has been approached from the dimensions of people and process for years. The people dimension considers how to get the best out of people and the way they interact with each other. The process dimension is about formal mechanisms for executing strategy and tracking the more quantifiable aspects of performance.

Practical implications

An insightful framework to help companies develop the right kind of approach to managing performance.

Originality/value

Based on unique and extensive consulting experience and research data. Distinguishes between performance per se and the process of managing performance. A new framework that combines people and process dimension for selecting the right approach to managing performance.
The value of weak connections
Authors: Jackson Stuart E.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Most business leaders are aware of the success and high market valuations associated with internet networking businesses such as Facebook and LinkedIn. But they often fail to apply the lessons from the success of these businesses to their own brick and mortar operations. This article discusses the underlying human willingness to help others with whom we have relatively weak connections. Businesses that tap into this human trait can expect increased loyalty from customers and improved business performance. The author proposes four key strategies for companies wishing to address this opportunity.

Design/methodology/approach

In this article, Jackson discusses fundamental human behaviors behind the success of Facebook, LinedIn and many other off‐line networking organizations. The author cites a number of case examples of executives and businesses that have reinforced their commercial success through the principle of leveraging weak connections. Examples of businesses in the article include food and consumer durables, with a central example in the motorcycle industry. The author then draws lessons that can be applied broadly by any business.

Findings

The author proposes four priorities for reinforcing success through the power of weak connections: leverage the strength of your core product to build consumer interest and loyalty; create mechanisms for customer‐customer connections as well as company‐customer communication; become a destination for all potential users including non‐customers; and embrace weak connection technologies such as internet networking and devote sufficient resources to make your organization stand out. Often this means devoting a full‐time person to social networking.

Originality/value

This article sheds light on the underlying human trait of wanting to help others with whom we share some kind of connection, even if it is a relatively weak one, and the commercial opportunities this creates.
The foundations of the ethical tradition of economics: Plato'sRepublic
Authors: Alvey James E.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Economics was closely entwined with ethics up to the 1930s when this weakened subsequently. Amartya Sen first sketched this historical relationship in his book,On Ethics and Economics. This paper is in broad agreement with Sen. It aims to explore the ethical foundations of economics in ancient Greece, focussing on Plato'sRepublic.

Design/methodology/approach

Key aspects of Sen's ethical framework (ethical motivation, human well‐being, and social achievement) are used as a template to re‐investigate Plato's work. A close reading of Plato'sRepublicis undertaken in order to demonstrate the foundations of economics as an ethical enterprise.

Findings

First, Plato argues that there is a range of motivations and behaviors along an ethical scale. For Plato, the goal is to try to establish what constitutes ethical behavior and then seek conditions suitable to bring it about. Second, in theRepublic, one sees an outline of Plato's understanding of human well‐being. Human functioning (physical and mental flourishing, including friendship), and gender equality are key parts of his picture. Third, Plato is painting the picture of a utopian society in theRepublic. In discussions of the ideal society, the economy, laws, and other policies must be set within an ethical framework. In several respects, Plato anticipates Sen's capabilities approach to economics.

Originality/value

In recent years, great efforts have been devoted to developing and extending Sen's Capability Framework. Part of that work has been devoted to tracing the origins of Sen's approach back to Aristotle. This paper represents the first attempt to trace that framework back further, to Plato'sRepublic.
Law and economics in the ASEAN+3 region: the rule of law deficit
Authors: Lane Jan‐Erik
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize that East Asia and South East Asia, despite enormous economic advances, have a deficit on rule of law, analysed as either judicial autonomy and legal integrity (rule of law I) or as voice and accountability (rule of law II).

Design/methodology/approach

First, a distinction is made between two key aspects of rule of law; second, these two aspects are measured by data from the World Bank Governance project, relating them to various measures on socio‐economic development and economic growth.

Findings

It is not generally true that development leads to or entails freedom, as several countries in the ASEAN +3 region display low scores on either one of the dimensions of rule of law or both.

Practical implications

In both research and in practice, one needs to devote more effort into understanding how rapid economic development may be possible without strong rule of law, either as legal integrity and judicial autonomy, or as voice and political accountability. In the process of globalisation, demands for more of rule of law in this region appear justifiable.

Originality/value

This paper provides useful information on economic development and political development, which is highly relevant for understanding the implication of economic growth in the countries in ASEAN +3.
Managerial views about dividend policy in Pakistan
Authors: Khan N.U. , Burton B.M. , Power D.M.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Very little is known about the influences on dividend decisions in Pakistan, despite the importance of the market in the region and the nation's non‐standard tax system. This study therefore aims to provide detailed evidence regarding this issue by examining the views of those charged with the decisions in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reports the findings from interviews with 23 Pakistani company officials about influences on their firms' dividend policies. A semi‐structured interview document was used to guide the discussions. The interviewees chosen ensure that a wide spread of professional and industrial backgrounds were covered in the study.

Findings

The results suggest that, despite differences in environmental idiosyncrasies, the dividend decision‐making process in Pakistani companies is similar in many important respects to that in the USA and other developed markets. However, unlike in earlier studies, the interviewees suggested that past dividends do not influence current dividend levels in Pakistan and respondents were not reluctant to announce news of a dividend cut; instead, firms focus only on current earnings and company liquidity when deciding on a disbursement level.

Originality/value

The study suggests that views about dividends in Pakistan differ from those reported in other markets in a number of important respects. Some, but not all of this evidence relates to the Pakistan taxation system, where until very recently share dividends (as with all capital gains) were tax exempt.
Mentoring female entrepreneurs: a mentors' training intervention evaluation
Authors: Sarri Katerina K.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of a mentor training intervention for experienced entrepreneurs in order to support and advise new and early stage female entrepreneurs in an attempt to enrich the limited literature of empirical data in the area of mentor training intervention assessment.

Design/methodology/approach

For the evaluation of the mentor training programme, a three‐level process has been used (reactions to training, knowledge and skills, behavior). Empirical research consists of quantitative research and different questionnaires were used to obtain information from respondents on a post basis. The sample consists of 52 mentors (experienced entrepreneurs) and 52 female mentees (early stage entrepreneurs). Descriptive statistics were generated by the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data.

Findings

Mentors responded positively to the training, they acquired knowledge and improved their skills, and they were able to transfer their improved knowledge and skills to their mentoring relationship and to their personal and professional lives.

Research limitations/implications

Findings are based on preliminary research and a more comprehensive evaluation could be devised using pre‐ and post‐programme evaluation and resultant relationships could be further evaluated through a qualitative study.

Practical implications

A mentor training intervention evaluation is needed to enhance delivery of mentoring functions tailored to the needs of female entrepreneurs. This study serves as a starting‐point for further research in the field of female entrepreneurial learning and particularly mentor training to policy makers, academics and professionals.

Originality/value

Although the literature on female entrepreneurship, mentoring and training is growing, very little has been done to assess mentor training interventions. The present paper is one of the first to address and explore this issue.
Introduction: a conference doing the cybernetics of cybernetics
Authors: Glanville Ranulph
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper introduces the other papers in this issue, describing and arguing for the context in which they were written – a conference that was, unusually, based in conversation rather than reporting through the presentation of papers: and a refereeing process that continued after the initial presentation (at the conference) of the work reported, thus allowing responses to critical comments. Many of our authors do not come from scientific backgrounds, and writing papers such as we are used to is a novel experience to, and discipline for, them.

Design/methodology/approach

The organisation and structure of the conference and the processes of refereeing involved are described; and the argument is made that the particularities of each are more cybernetic than the more familiar arrangements.

Findings

The conference processes were greatly valued by the authors. This is evident in the papers presented in this volume, although the convention of presenting only the final form of the paper may mean it is only evident to those who have been involved in the process of writing and refereeing.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the approach presented here are a combination of what we can imagine (supported by hard work) and the cultural willingness of funding sources to accept the unfamiliar.

Practical implications

The contents of this volume, that form an outcome of the conference, show it is possible and interesting to create a “non‐standard” conference based in conversation, which searches for new questions rather than reporting answers to old ones: and that papers produced within a conversational process of refereeing and discussion allow both development of research‐in‐writing, and a good quality outcome. We can and should meet in “better” ways.

Social implications

The conference and papers associated with it show that meetings in which a conversational approach is taken can be viable, not only as academic occasions but in their ability to generate papers of quality. This opens the academic world to different types of meeting and different ways of associating.

Originality/value

The value of this paper lies in the arguments made concerning conferences and refereeing processes. The originality is in the way these are presented as the embodiment of cybernetic understandings and processes (thus realising a cybernetics of cybernetics). The quality of the introduction is enriched by frequent references to material of generation and of record that exists as the legacy of the conference “Cybernetics: Art, Design, Mathematics – A Meta‐Disciplinary Conversation” at frequently cited urls on the conference web site. The evidence is there, as well as in this volume.
Why the arts need cybernetics for our long‐term viability
Authors: Boyd Gary
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to encourage critics and artists to make use of a cybersystemic perspective in their work to improve its potency and long‐term value to humankind and the larger living world. The arts are centrally involved in the competitive propagation of our deep cultural identities and involved also in the marketing needed to ensure our biological identity propagation. We need better ways to formatively evaluate the arts so that requisite life‐enhancing control variety can be universally available. Unfortunately, the arts are not widely enough understood to be the crucial system steering activities that they are, for us to realize the immense visionary guiding benefits they can offer for solving the very serious global problems of the twenty‐first century.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that proposes a methodology to enable critics and artists to make use of a cybersystemic perspective in their work.

Findings

Transformative re‐education of artists and critics to develop cybersystemic leveraging of their own work is now possible by deploying via the web: systemic modeling, simulations, and educative dramatic role‐play games together with learning conversations. The essential content in education for human long‐term viability has to do with how complex system steering really works and precisely how the arts play such a central role in it all.

Originality/value

Education which specifically demonstrates how cybersystemic viability principles such as: good closings, balancing loops, requisite variety, requisite heterarchy, and multi‐level learning conversations work can be used by artists and critics to steer human activity better and so can be a big part of the solution to the severe threats that the world is now experiencing.
Multiple objectivity: an anti‐relativist approach to situated knowledge
Authors: Eglash Ron
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the inadequate nature of both “mono‐objectivist” approaches, which deny any role of social influence in science, and relativist social constructions, which fail to distinguish between science and pseudoscience. It outlines an alternative conceptual framework that allows for the possibility of social construction of science, while preventing epistemological relativism.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes the cybernetic concept of recursion to show how science can bend back on itself, investigating its own foundations, without undermining its ability to improve our empirical understanding of the world. The paper makes use of several case studies to define specific mechanisms that show how the process of knowledge production in science can steer a course between reduction to a single “right answer,” and fragmentation into subjective interpretations.

Findings

The paper concludes by showing how the cybernetic recursion of multiple objectivity can also be applied to cybernetics itself. In particular, it suggests that such recursive investigations allow us to reconsider the Law of Requisite Variety, and envision an alternative form that can better account for the complexity that arises in self‐generating systems.

Research limitations/implications

The research is unlikely to be of use to scientists looking for epistemological proof of singular right answers, or social constructivists looking for proof of epistemological relativism.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that researchers in constructivism need not limit their work for fear that it will lead to relativist conclusions.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to offer an alternative to current developments in the field of science and technology studies.
When is analog? When is digital?
Authors: Fischer Thomas
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a cybernetic way of seeing analog and digital along with a basic vocabulary for discussing assumptions underlying the use of both terms.

Design/methodology/approach

Takinganaloganddigitalnot as properties of observed phenomena but as properties of observers, I ask not whatisdigitaloranalog, butwhat I dowhen I use these terms. I analyze introspectively, and report on, what I think my assumptions are when using the two terms.

Findings

I develop a basic vocabulary to describe engagements that I describe as analog or digital. This vocabulary is applicable beyond technical contexts and suitable also for discussing social and creative processes. It includes a kind of observer who I callmatchmaker.

Research limitations/implications

The presented research is preliminary and subjective.

Originality/value

While previous discussions consideranaloganddigitalas properties of observed phenomena, they are considered here as properties of observers. The presented discussion is sufficiently abstract to account for the analog and the digital at various scales, including electronic signal processing and human interaction. The author argues that discussions of engagements described as analog or digital must account for observers of these engagements, including those who act as their matchmakers.
The hypothesis of interactive evolution
Authors: Galkin Dmitry V.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to formulate the hypothesis of interactive evolution as evolutionary development of interactivity in relation to complex spatial relations. It also attempts to show that interactive evolution should be considered as a crossroad interdisciplinary conceptualization of social dynamics and technological growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on and directed by ideas, concepts and problems of the first‐ and second‐order cybernetics, theory of artificial life, social sciences and contemporary technological art. It shows that there is a need for further conceptual clarification of spatial dimension of interactivity. Clarification and formulation of the hypothesis is given through interdisciplinary analysis of artistic experiments in early cybernetic and contemporary interactive art as well as through addressing small group social interaction in social sciences.

Findings

The hypothesis was formulated of interactive evolution describing interactive evolution as a cyclic process that begins with the seeds of feedback reactivity (response), goes to the emergent conversation and developing towards the symbiotic relations (new entity evolved) that goes into the same cycle on the different level. Each evolutionary step has its spatial and structural specifics. Interactive evolution changes spatial structure of interactivity shifting space up from physical distance to new symbiotic totality of betweenness.

Practical implications

The hypothesis can be a useful framework for modeling complex evolutionary design processes and evaluation/development of social processes such as teambuilding, organizational change and social networking.

Originality/value

The innovative aspect of the paper is that it introduces the original hypothesis of interactive evolution, shows important relational aspects of interactivity and its spatial dimensions and provides some interdisciplinary evidence for the interactive evolution (based on social science and contemporary art).
Do you like paleolithic op‐art?
Authors: Jablan Slavik , Radović Ljiljana
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the history of certain modular elements: Truchet tiles, Op‐tiles, Kufic tiles, and key‐patterns, which occur as ornamental archetypes from Paleolithic times until the present. The appearance of the same ornamental archetypes at the same level of the development in different cultures, distant in space and time can be described from the cybernetics point of view as a specific kind of self‐referential systems or cellular automata present in the intellectual and cultural development of mankind. The aim of this research is to show a continuity of the development of ornamental structures based on modular elements used as ornamental archetypes.

Design/methodology/approach

Research of the material from archaeological findings, history of art, painting, architecture, and applied arts.

Findings

Existence of universal geometrical construction principles based on modularity.

Practical implications

Creation of new patterns or designs (e.g. TeX‐fonts, tiles, etc.) based on modularity.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new explanation of constructions of labyrinths and different Islamic patterns.
Music, memory and cognition: a cybernetic approach
Authors: Johnson Mark
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an approach to the perception of music and the understanding of memory using cybernetic tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The work uses a methodological approach based on realistic evaluation to deploy two well‐established cybernetic models – the viable system model (VSM) and Luhmann's model of social systems – together with Harré's “Positioning Theory” to show how the process of mental construction and perception might be conceived. Drawing on reflections following a musical performance experiment at the American Cybernetics Society Conference in 2010, phenomenal issues of perception and memory are considered against the background of feedback mechanisms with a material and social environment.

Findings

The model situates the process of improvising music, the experience of listening to music, and the experience of recalling musical events within the context of a dynamic regulatory mechanism involving individual agents in a material and social environment.

Social implications

The paper argues that a model for memory of co‐evolution between agency and environment has ethical and political implications, drawing particularly on recent application of Harré's Positioning Theory.

Originality/value

The bringing together of the VSM, Luhmann's theory and Positioning Theory helps to give more definition to the relationship between what Harré terms “engrams” and “exterograms” thus making possible more sophisticated models of distributed cognition.
The design and validation of an artificial personality
Authors: Kadri Faisal L.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

A US patent was recently granted for an artificial psychology dialog player with two artificial personalities and aging simulation. The purpose of this paper is to expose the usefulness and scientific roots and support the commercial viability of the patent based on a new cybernetic model of personality.

Design/methodology/approach

The design of the artificial personality utilizes a new four‐dimensional cybernetic model, where sentences are classified along the dimensions according to their motivational and cognitive content. The model is a dynamic nonlinear system described in box diagram form. The idea behind the model is rooted in the cybernetics concept of requisite variety and the model's characteristics predict systematic variation with age. The model explains phenomena hitherto found vague. Its predictions regarding age dependence of human behaviour over adult age is tested by online humour appreciation surveys. The methodology is to establish the validity of the model by referencing its a priori predictions against a posteriori empirical classification of survey data by applying statistical consistency tests.

Findings

The prediction was tested using score data from three online humour appreciation surveys. The results from all surveys confirm the prediction and validate the personality model. The model is indeed useful and the statistical consistency tests support the validity of the model. A novel formulation of Maturana's closed nervous system based on the model with the possibility of empirical validation was also found.

Research limitations/implications

The media of the analysis was only humorous sentences, while the predictions of the model can be applied to other media such as other types of expressions and semiotic symbols, which are outside the scope of this investigation. Only age‐related changes were investigated. Personality‐related preferences are planned for investigation at a later stage.

Practical implications

A general age link of types of humor was not available until now, the validation of this link brings closer the realization of improvement in man‐machine interaction. Other applications include marketing and the use of the model as an educational tool.

Originality/value

The model of personality has a new structure represented as a stable continuous nonlinear system. It employs a feedback mechanism to describe homeostasis (multiplier feedback), a cybernetic regulator that is not based on the familiar negative feedback control structure. Its value as an alternative tool of analysis and prediction cuts across wide disciplines such as psychology, animal behaviour, physical science, computing, engineering and commerce.
Don't give up! Media art as an endless conversational process
Authors: Lautenschlaeger Graziele , Pratschke Anja
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that the potential for contemporary media art production is based on the productive action itself, and that this activity supports the negotiating of understandings. This discussion is based on second‐order cybernetics principles, in which the researcher's role is considered in the observation process. It emphasizes the idea that media art is a social and aesthetic system based on conversation and autopoietic processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This argument is based upon a master's research dissertation on contemporary media art production, conducted at the Center for Interactive Living Studies (Nomads.usp). The methodology is based on an immersion in an action‐centered research process: the authors conducted a literature review, interviewed 26 people, including artists, curators and theoreticians, visited several exhibitions, media art centers, and produced an interactive installation.

Findings

Aesthetic propositions may trigger conversational processes within different perspectives. The authors see this as related to Luhmann's writings about art as both an aesthetic and social system. Despite the utopian nature of the proposition the authors identify a second‐order cybernetic relevance in their investigation.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations are related to the intrinsic specificity of the adopted methodology. It may be possible to derive general theoretical abstractions or methods from the described investigation, but this was never the authors’ intention.

Social implications

The authors suggest recognition of media art as a collective practice, discussing this complex activity at micro (individual goals) and macro (overall goals) levels.

Originality/value

This application of self‐reference to our reflective art and design research practice will enhance the design of future projects.
Norwich's Entropy Theory: how not to go from abstract to actual
Authors: Nizami Lance
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ask whether a first‐order‐cybernetics concept, Shannon's Information Theory, actually allows a far‐reaching mathematics of perception allegedly derived from it, Norwich et al.'s “Entropy Theory of Perception”.

Design/methodology/approach

All of The Entropy Theory, 35 years of publications, was scrutinized for its characterization of what underlies Shannon Information Theory: Shannon's “general communication system”. There, “events” are passed by a “source” to a “transmitter”, thence through a “noisy channel” to a “receiver”, that passes “outcomes” (received events) to a “destination”.

Findings

In the entropy theory, “events” were sometimes interactions with the stimulus, but could be microscopic stimulus conditions. “Outcomes” often went unnamed; sometimes, the stimulus, or the interaction with it, or the resulting sensation, were “outcomes”. A “source” was often implied to be a “transmitter”, which frequently was a primary afferent neuron; elsewhere, the stimulus was the “transmitter” and perhaps also the “source”. “Channel” was rarely named; once, it was the whole eye; once, the incident photons; elsewhere, the primary or secondary afferent. “Receiver” was usually the sensory receptor, but could be an afferent. “Destination” went unmentioned. In sum, the entropy theory's idea of Shannon's “general communication system” was entirely ambiguous.

Research limitations/implications

The ambiguities indicate that, contrary to claim, the entropy theory cannot be an “information theoretical description of the process of perception”.

Originality/value

Scrutiny of the entropy theory's use of information theory was overdue and reveals incompatibilities that force a reconsideration of information theory's possible role in perception models. A second‐order‐cybernetics approach is suggested.
Towards digitally integrated urban places
Authors: Riether Gernot
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Digital media has been firmly established in contemporary society and now is a time of unprecedented growth and innovation in the world of digital technologies. Conversely, before and during this period, physical public space has diminished in quantity and quality. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that creating and intensifying connections between digital space and physical public space might open up new possibilities to reactivate urban places.

Design/methodology/approach

Historically, art has provided a territory in which new ideas could be introduced and tested. For example, the great landscape gardens of Versailles provided a model for the later development of the urban structure of Paris. Many artists in the last few decades have experimented with how digital/virtual environments might be related to real physical space. It is reasonable to assume that these experiments will be applied in broader contexts and will most likely have impact at the scale of the city. This essay contextualizes current interactive installations within an overview of selected forward‐looking precedents.

Findings

The analysis of early experiments in collapsing the realms of virtual and physical environments demonstrates that the implications of a fuller integration have not reached its potential in contemporary applications.

Originality/value

Walter Benjamin's speculation that media could contribute to urban space of heightened interaction is a promise still waiting realization. Art installations that promote interactive relations between the spectator and physical space are used as instigations for speculations at an urban scale. In particular, attention is given to the development of improved interfaces.
Future “designing” and the Chinese notions of “Li”
Authors: Robertson Alec , Men Delai
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to fuse some ideas within different domains perceived to have some resonance together with the purpose to assist the development of the artificial world using a novel perspective on design and cybernetics in the context of the Chinese notions of “Li”.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that reviews concepts related to the design of socio‐technical situations through a trans‐disciplinary perspective. One method used to develop ideas was participation in the American Society of Cybernetics Conference – C:ADM 2010 and enable its participants to influence initial ideas presented by the authors.

Findings

The paper provides a way of approaching the design of “dynamics” in the conceptualisation of artefacts in the widest sense of the term, and provides insights about designing future products, services and systems along with the education of designers in this.

Research limitations/implications

The trans‐disciplinary approach to topics covered by the paper results in some compromises in disciplinary terms, and it has a more intuitive approach than might be taken within the disciplines alone. The discussion is enhanced by this approach however, researchers are encouraged to follow up particular aspects within a disciplinary approach as well.

Practical implications

The paper includes some examples of designs to illustrate the practical application of concepts discussed and how these may be incorporated into design education.

Originality/value

The interrelationship of the Chinese notions of “Li”, second‐order cybernetics, and four‐dimensional design is an original contribution. In addition the recommendation for design education generally, and a course for engineers at South China University of Technology, Guangzhou in particular, to assist students' “innovation consciousness” is of value.
Conversing with drawings and buildings: from abstract to actual in architecture
Authors: Sweeting Ben
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the various movements from abstraction to actuality in the context of design, with particular reference to architecture, first in terms of the design process and second in terms of the interpretation of architecture by observers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the designers' use of forms of representation, such as drawings, with reference to the cybernetic understanding of conversation. This account is then used to discuss the representational properties of architecture itself and to relate this back to the design process.

Findings

It is argued that the forms of representation used by designers, such as drawings and physical models, have both abstract and actual properties and that this combination is important for their representational function. The ambiguity in the interpretation of drawings and models is not only useful in generating ideas but also appropriate given the ambiguity in the interpretation of the architecture they represent.

Originality/value

The division between the abstract (understood in terms of representation) and the actual is challenged. A connection is proposed between architecture itself as a form of representation and the representation used in its design.
Human:machine:human: Gesture, Sound and Embodiment
Authors: Van Nort Doug
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an embodied view on human/machine co‐creation in general, and musical improvisation in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

Questions and propositions are formed by examining personal work in intelligent, interactive system design.

Findings

Proper consideration of gestural representation and intentionality leads to enhanced potential for collective expression in human/machine interaction.

Originality/value

This approach extends ideas of conversation theory to improvisational contexts based on spontaneous, collective expression.
Re‐thinking metaphor, experience and aesthetic awareness
Authors: Wlaszyn Joanna
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore current questions about metaphor, experience and aesthetic awareness that persist through the variations of critical approaches and projective research in architectural theory and practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Further considerations focus on the advanced technological possibilities which re‐invest the relations between principles of cybernetics and architecture.

Findings

The current between art and architecture is more than ever manifested in fields related to the computer sciences and its conceptual background: cybernetic sciences.

Originality/value

The paper re‐thinks the aesthetic value of architecture and architectural experience in this time of digital productivity.
Climate change again, MIT plans, exoskeleton, WikiLeaks
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Design/methodology/approach

The need to reduce carbon emissions on account of the atmospheric greenhouse effect has recently been queried, but observations of effects on the oceans confirm its continuing importance. A means of viewing new buildings in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the site of origin of much of cybernetics, is indicated, as is also a remarkable development of an advanced prosthetic device. Sources of information about the recent WikiLeaks or “Cablegate” events are reviewed.

Findings

Effects of acidification on ocean biota are serious. New buildings on the MIT campus are not following the example of the bizarre Stata Center. The robotic exoskeleton is a valuable development made under unusual conditions. No attempt is made to judge ethics or long‐term effects of WikiLeaks activity but it is shown to be wide ranging and to be defended eloquently by its main operative.

Practical implications

The need to reduce carbon emissions is confirmed by studies of the oceans, probably among other factors. The exoskeleton development is a valuable addition to prosthetic technology as well as an example of what can be done with limited resources.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
The loneliness of the long distance researcher
Authors: Gannon‐Leary Pat , Fontainha Elsa , Bent Moira
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Prior research has highlighted the isolation felt by some researchers engaged in academic writing. This article aims to examine whether such isolation might be partially overcome by membership of an online community of writers (CoW), hosted by higher education (HE) library services.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature was followed by an innovative piece of action research based around the authors' own long distance collaborative writing task in order to explore the issues at first‐hand. Case studies of existing online writing communities known to the authors but not currently hosted by libraries were also undertaken.

Findings

Themes emerging include the importance of finding a medium for a CoW that is familiar and comfortable. Motivators to join a CoW include demands that academics be research active. Demotivators may include lack of trust and reluctance to share.

Research limitations/implications

There are still questions to be answered and decisions to be taken about the initiation of a CoW. Further research is needed into topics such as mentoring roles and trust‐building but this work should provide a springboard.

Practical implications

HE libraries might consider a CoW as a research support mechanism.

Originality/value

The concept of a CoW is a novel one, as is the idea that such a collaboration might be hosted by HE libraries that might consider a CoW as an innovative addition to their existing portfolio of research support services.
Assessing the intention to use e‐book among engineering undergraduates in Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
Authors: Letchumanan Malathi , Tarmizi Rohani
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the intention of using e‐books as learning material among undergraduates from an engineering department by using the technology acceptance model (TAM) and gender as its external variable.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey through questionnaire was conducted to collect data from the respondents. Data from 169 respondents who had experience in using e‐book were analyzed in terms of factor analysis and structural equation modeling.

Results

The analysis shows that perceived ease of use is positively related to perceived usefulness. Perceived usefulness has significant effect on attitude and intention to use e‐books. Meanwhile, attitude has significant effect on intention to use. However, perceived ease of use has no significant effect on attitude towards using e‐books. In addition, gender appeared to have no significant effects either on perceived ease of use or perceived usefulness.

Research limitations/implications

The study did not utilize the entire TAM where actual technology use is not included in this study.

Practical implications

The study is important in terms of obtaining better understanding of e‐book reading intention among engineering undergraduates who are the real users of e‐books. By obtaining the respondents' perception on their intentions, action can be taken on how to motivate the non‐users of e‐books to form the intention to use e‐books.

Originality/value

This is believed to be the first published study of engineering undergraduates' intention on using e‐books in Universiti Putra Malaysia.
Interior library GIS
Authors: Coyle Andrew
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Geographic information systems (GIS) are used in business and government and have potentially powerful applications to the library, specifically “interior GIS” mapping of the collection itself. This paper seeks to argue for the implementation of GIS software in library collection analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains GIS history, the technology, design with spreadsheet and ILS database, statistical advancements, power of the GIS connection, and the importance of “democratizing” technology for libraries.

Findings

GIS is a powerful tool for any business or organization that keeps inventory and monitors transactional usage. GIS is going to be implemented in libraries sooner rather than later. The libraries that implement GIS early will have an intellectual advantage over those coming on‐board late. GIS should be part of collection librarian technology.

Practical implications

Librarians can benefit from visually analyzing the collection and its use trends. GIS will allow librarians to forecast demand for future allocations, uncover collection strengths and weaknesses, and monitor statistics in a way that is impossible with current spreadsheets. Managers will be able to track interlibrary loan trends, branch and neighborhood use volumes and will be able to match use maps with building layout and design for better functionality and loss prevention.

Social implications

GIS will revolutionize statistical analysis in every field it enters. It is argued in the paper to be the first modern tool for the twenty‐first century librarian, the first piece of technology to serve the librarian first, with system and user as beneficiary of the product of GIS analysis.

Originality/value

This paper introduces GIS to a new audience and to those familiar with GIS, applies GIS in a new direction, to the interior space of the library and its items as subject.
Global approaches to the service business in manufacturing companies
Authors: Kucza Gunther , Gebauer Heiko
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The article aims to investigate how product manufacturing firms can configure their global service approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, multi‐case research design was employed.

Findings

The following four global service approaches could be identified: integrated and ethnocentric; integrated and polycentric; separated and polycentric; and separated and geocentric.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings are limited in generalizability because of the qualitative research approach.

Practical implications

Exploring global forms of and supply chain configurations for services supports the efforts of manufacturing firms in developing new service‐based and relationship‐based value propositions.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the debate on integrating versus separating the service organization. It offers a complementary explanation on integrating and separating the service business, through a differentiation into central and local (market) organizations.