bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing FM (support services): business risks in the healthcare sector
Authors: Okoroh M.I. , Gombera P.P. , Ilozor B.D.
Published: July 2002

This paper presents research findings of 365 NHS Trust executives in the UK and builds on work carried out on risk perceptions and treatment in facilities management operations and business support activities in the NHS Trusts. The research utilises a business approach of viewing healthcare facilities not only as fixed “assets” occupying hospital sites and space, but it also considers them as that “tangible” part of the service chain process underpinning the provision of clinical services to both internal (departments or directorates) and external customers. The research found that customer satisfaction, service delivery certainty, customer involvement, service quality reliability, health and safety are highly rated by the NHS executives. The paper classifies healthcare related risk constructs into seven elements namely: customer care, corporate, legal, commercial finance and economics, business transfer, and facilities transmitted.
Accommodation functionality assessment in office buildings
Authors: Vijverberg Geert
Published: July 2002

Maintenance and investments in buildings should be based on a view of the desired level of function fulfilment of individual buildings and the building stock. In accommodation policy at the building level, this should be expressed in terms of scenarios, e.g. consolidation, extension, conversion, redeployment, sale and demolition. The evaluation of the building is vital in determining the choice of accommodation. To establish the evaluation, two kinds of information must be gathered: the organisation accommodated by the building; and the operating prospects for the building. Presents a model in which five blocks of information are distinguished on building level. The model takes as its point of departure, office organisations owning their accommodation. In selecting the model’s information carriers, reference was made to existing Dutch and other quality assessment systems.
Developing an accessibility appraisal model for the external environments of housing estates
Authors: Kane Gillian , Heaney George , Ewart Ken , McAlister Billy
Published: July 2002

Based on research carried out on a mature estate in South Belfast, Northern Ireland, this paper investigates the obstacles to accessibility in order to produce an appraisal model for external accessibility. The study included a review of best practice, a preliminary access appraisal and resident and service provider consultation. Residents were surveyed on a number of issues including location, roads and pavements, transportation, level change, wayfinding, safety and security, and public areas. It was discovered that obstacles relating to wayfinding and traffic management created the greatest problems for residents. The resultant model will enable housing providers and managers to identify specific areas of inaccessibility and the feasibility of improving them as well as allowing comparisons between estates. It is intended to provide all agencies involved in housing with a basis for collaboration in the enhancement of accessibility.
Waste management at airports
Authors: Pitt Michael , Brown Andrew , Smith Andrew
Published: July 2002

The aviation industry worldwide has a reputation for being a major polluter. This paper examines the ways in which airports address the issue of the environment through examining both the problems and the strategies adopted in disposal. The paper concludes that a more co‐ordinated approach to environmental strategy is needed across the industry and that this is best produced at government level.
The application of facilities management expertise to the hotel renovation process
Authors: Hassanien Ahmed , Losekoot Erwin
Published: July 2002

This paper considers the renovation of hotels in the context of facilities management. It evaluates a study carried out in Egypt into the attitudes of hotel general managers about the importance attached to hotel renovation and refurbishment. The findings show that whilst hotel managers express a belief in the importance of hotel renovation, there is little evidence of strategic thought in the renovation process. Instead, the focus appears to be on the “softer” customer satisfaction aspects of hotel management. There is scope for a more strategic view of FM among hotel managers and owners.
Corporate Change: Its Effect on Property and the Economy
Authors: Eul Frank
Published: July 2002

Describes a recent study, undertaken by DTZ Debenham Thorpe, examining
the economic role of property. Foresees a change in attitudes towards
company property (a shift away from the traditional view that it is an
umbrella for housing people and production), induced by effects of the
abolition of trade barriers. Concludes that the value of real estate
must be maximized to retain economic health.
Planning Effective Action to Implement the Regulations
Authors: Stewart Tom
Published: July 2002

Explains the health and safety directives and regulations and suggests
the kinds of action that employers should be taking to ensure
compliance. Suggests that the increased pace of modern office work puts
health and safety in the office on management′s agenda, and points out
that the employer is obliged to keep up to date with the state of the
art to achieve the objectives of the directive. A key concept in the
regulations is that employers should analyse existing display screen
equipment workplaces to assess risks. Explains the most important
regulations, discusses key issues and provides brief management
checklists.
Video and Data Conferencing on the Desk...Another Nail in the Office
Coffin
Authors: Mawson Andrew
Published: July 2002

Provides an insight into the power of video and data conferencing, the
latest evolution in information technology, and explores their impact on
the office workplace. Discusses the costs and benefits of such systems
and their potential to revolutionize management styles, business
processes and organizational structures. Concludes that video
conferencing and data conferencing will prove to be a further nail in
the office coffin.
Lessons from Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching for the Facilities Manager
Authors: Sui Pheng Low
Published: July 2002

Indicates that literature on facilities management is written from a
Western perspective with no reference to practices in the East:
therefore suggests there is profit in integrating Oriental thinking with
Western thinking. Takes the ideas of philosopher Lao Tzu and
incorporates them with Western thinking to enhance the leadership
effectiveness of the facilities manager. Concentrates on the text of the
book Tao Te Ching and relates the ideas to management. Provides a
summary of the main points of the 37 chapters in book I of Tao Te
Ching and provides lessons from the 44 chapters of book II. Concludes
that Lao Tzu′s teaching holds a wisdom for the modern team leader but
suggests Western facilities management should take note as Western
notions of ethics and leadership qualities have already caused erosion
of Taoism and Confucianism in the East.
Partnerships: a new management tool for the next decade
Authors: Barnhoorn J.G.M.
Published: July 2002

Examines two aspects of facilities management work: the degree of
customization involved in professional services; and the skills needed
in face‐to‐face interaction with a client. Suggests that these require
highly‐skilled individuals to provide an effective service. Concludes
that developing a partnership relation should be based on trust.
A conceptual framework for describing built assets maintenance standards
Authors: Shiem‐Shin Then Danny
Published: July 2002

Aims to provide a conceptual framework for describing maintenance standards in relation to built assets, i.e. buildings as a special class of long‐life durable assets that are fundamental to most business operations. Advocates the definition of maintenance standards by evaluating two key variables that are inherent in establishing built asset maintenance demands irrespective of the nature of business the asset may be supporting; classification of maintenance actions and effectiveness of maintenance actions. Describes the evaluation methodology based on a simple four‐quadrant matrix.
New technology offers facilities managers the opportunity to improve lighting performance and cut energy costs
Authors: Morris John
Published: July 2002

Examines varying degrees of influence on lighting specification by facilities managers. Argues that facilities managers are ideally placed to weigh life‐cycle costs against capital purchase costs and make informed specification choices. Discusses the features and benefits of the latest lamp technology and high frequency gears which offer improved performance and reduced energy consumption and therefore long‐term savings. Contains quotations from (anonymous) practising facilities managers on their experience with lighting specification in different environments. Provides calculated examples to support the argument. Argues that facilities managers should assume the role of educator to the rest of the management team.
Experiences of ISO 9000 with small firms in building services
Authors: Atherton M.A. , Austin P.
Published: July 2002

Describes an approach for overcoming some of the barriers to achieving ISO 9000 faced by small firms in the building services sector. Draws on the experiences of several firms to illustrate the importance of partnerships in overcoming some of the difficulties in translating the standard, with its manufacturing bias, to the business of small service organizations. It is apparent that the overlap between sections within the standard means that in satisfying some paragraphs others are also satisfied. This can be a source of confusion for the owner‐manager of a small firm grappling with the concepts of ISO 9000.
Developing and using a facilities planning guide
Authors: Thatcher Guy , Graham Jim
Published: July 2002

The Canadian federal department of Human Resources Development Canada required a Facilities Planning Guide to support the re‐engineered national Income Security Program. The challenge was to produce a guide to address a widely varied audience in regions across Canada, to satisfy a range of stakeholders ‐ and to do it in 60 days in two languages.
Sick building syndrome ‐ the real facts: what is known, what can be done
Authors: Rooley Richard
Published: July 2002

Lists groups to be considered at the start of a building project in order to improve internal air quality. Provides several symptoms of sick building syndrome, as described by the World Health Organization, and details some regulations and certain recommendations as to the original design. Considers some common indoor and outdoor pollutants, and concludes that the workforce should contribute to a healthy environment by reporting to management when dissatisfied.
Marketing at the Crossroads – A Comment
Authors: Wilson Mike , McDonald Malcolm
Published: July 2002

A reply to a recently published report by Coopers & Lybrand, very
critical of the state of marketing management in the United Kingdom.
Database Marketing: Strategy or Tactical Tool?
Authors: Cooke Simon
Published: July 2002

Outlines two distinct views of database marketing – as a total marketing
strategy and as a tactical tool. Argues that a database marketing
strategy can be realized only in companies with a genuine customer
focus. As a result the tactical choice is more appropriate to most
companies. Suggests that the problems of database saturation, where
further cross‐selling using a database is not cost‐effective, can be
overcome through widening the company′s credibility as a supplier as
well as by increasing the size of the database. A database marketing
strategy uses the tools of image and brand building to establish this
credibility.
Database Marketing: Talking Direct to Our Listening Customers
Authors: Carr Mike
Published: July 2002

In March 1994 British Gas began a major restructuring of its UK gas
business. In place of the 12 regions there are now five business units
– gas transport and storage, public gas supply, contract trading,
servicing, installation and retailing. Addresses issues relating to the
retailing business. Discusses how selective targeting of customers has
helped the company to achieve an increase in sales orders and a more
accurate customer profile, and has contributed to the success of The Gas
Collection catalogues.
The £15 Million Journey
Authors: Bates James
Published: July 2002

Details how a leading financial institution in the UK developed a
£15 million relational database from scratch. Roger Ivey, head of Direct
Marketing at the Leeds Permanent Building Society, had the task of
bringing together a dozen previously unconnected and non‐communicating
customer information databases into one central information storehouse.
Explains why the move was competitively necessary and how the society
has benefited from the new database. Although the new database has not
provided the impetus for any new products or services, it has helped the
Leeds to understand better their existing and potential customers so
that they can more effectively serve these customers and segment them
into existing product lines.
Brand Development
Authors: Betts Peter
Published: July 2002

Focuses on the case example of one of the leading wallcovering
manufacturers in the UK. Explores issues surrounding the development of
brands within a commodity‐type market. The research attempted to analyse
the factors which affected the decision‐buying process for the consumer,
together with the role that the major DIY multiples played in creating
and communicating an effective brand identity. The results of the
initial research uncover a major deficiency in brand policy within this
sector. They also indicate the importance of any branding policy being
consistently communicated to the consumer and integrated across the
manufacturer and retailer spectrum. Considers the need for alternative
management styles in creating and establishing a successful branding
strategy.
Export practices in the UK clothing and knitwear industry
Authors: Crick Dave , Katsikeas Constantine S.
Published: July 2002

Reports on the findings from an exploratory study investigating the
export practices of UK clothing and knitwear manufacturing firms.
Attempts to examine several key export marketing factors relating
specifically to export development and performance characteristics,
international market information requirements, export marketing mix, and
the future importance of overseas markets. Suggests that, to a large
extent, managers rely on their salesforces and intermediaries to carry
out marketing research. When considering factors associated with firms′
marketing mixes, an alarming percentage of managers were not prepared to
make adaptations. Prices were generally perceived as competitive, as
were product design and quality, and managers had an overall good
relationship with intermediaries. The main elements of the promotion mix
used by firms were personal selling followed by advertising, although
these varied between particular markets. Discusses these findings, which
have important implications for business practitioners and public policy
makers, together with a number of directions for future research.
Making industrial new product development market led
Authors: Coates Nigel , Robinson Harry
Published: July 2002

Studies the methods used to ensure that new product development in
an industrial and technical environment is market led. Begins with the
customer active paradigm of Eric Von Hippel, and then develops a
proactive approach to new product development. Reports on a three‐year
action programme applied to a UK division of a multinational
corporation. Although the study is concentrated on one in‐depth
longitudinal example, the authors are confident that the results can be
applied more widely.
The Saudi distribution system
Authors: Leonidou Leonidas C.
Published: July 2002

Provides insights into the distribution system of consumer goods in Saudi Arabia. The investigation derives information from both secondary and primary sources and centres on three distribution dimensions, namely structure, operation and behaviour. Finds that structural characteristics are inextricably linked to the idiosyncratic demographic, economic and sociocultural environment of the Kingdom, and that operating elements are greatly affected by environmental forces, as well as by rising competitive pressures and demanding customers. Behavioural aspects reveal the powerful role of distributors/agents and wholesalers in the distribution scene, as well as signs of channel conflict and competition. Overall, the study demonstrates that the Saudi distribution system is unique, complex and transient, and one where traditional and modern elements coexist. A thorough understanding of this system, therefore, is critical in gaining a foothold in such a lucrative but difficult market.
Planning prospects for industry followers
Authors: Helms Marilyn M.
Published: July 2002

While the strategic planning process of leaders is well understood, firms in lower market share ranks tend to have a planning process of a follower. Instead of trying to influence their environment, they normally copy the strategies of the industry leader or even serve niches neglected by the leader. Outlines, through numerous examples, the changes followers can make in their competitive profiles to become alternative leaders. The smaller firms may thrive serving a limited demand which would normally be unattractive to the leading firms; the larger company could do well by concentrating on products for market niches that are neglected by the industry leaders. Discusses several implications for small as well as large firms which wish to be followers in their industry. Also examines approaches to attaining long‐term economic viability such as forge linkages, protective factors, geographical parameters, personnel policies, product offerings, customer selection, purchasing, production and marketing.
Conducting a situation analysis for volunteer organizations: an improved model
Authors: Yavas Ugur , Riecken Glen
Published: July 2002

Asserts that competitive pressures make careful applications of marketing management tools imperative for the survival of time‐dependent non‐profit organizations. Illustrates a pragmatic tool which a volunteer‐dependent organization can use to determine its strengths and weaknesses vis‐à‐vis the competition. This tool is used to assess the competitive weaknesses and strengths of Big Brothers/Big Sisters vis‐à‐vis Special Olympics. Concludes by offering constructive advice as to how Big Brothers/Big Sisters can turn a “latent competitive advantage” into a “solid competitive advantage”.
Combining corporate and marketing strategy for global competitiveness
Authors: Steven White D. , Griffith David A.
Published: July 2002

Outlines effective corporate strategy‐marketing strategy relationships in the context of a behavioural segmentation framework for competing in the global marketplace. Evaluates standard, local and regional market strategies in conjunction with cost‐based, customer‐based and innovation‐based corporate strategies. Highlights key corporate strategy‐marketing strategy combinations in a global strategic marketing decision tree. These combinations enhance an organization’s ability to compete effectively in global consumer markets. Utilizes corporate examples to emphasize the effectiveness of these combinations. The premiss of this paper is that corporate strategy drives marketing strategy. Concludes that by recognizing the complex interrelationships between corporate and marketing strategy, organizations may achieve global strategic competitiveness.
The challenge of the marketspace
Authors: Blois K. J.
Published: July 2002

The concept of the “marketspace” is a powerful and exciting one. However, the papers which introduced it fail to make some of its key components clear. By analysing a number of examples, identifies the crucial features of the concept. Through considering an example from other sources, the validity of the interpretation being proposed is “tested”. Concludes that firms need to constantly consider the information that their systems collect for the purpose of attaining this greater efficiency to determine to who else and in what form it would be of value.
Export information providers: are they meeting the needs of SMEs?
Authors: Chaudhry Shiv , Crick Dave
Published: July 2002

This study provides empirical evidence concerning the perceived usefulness of sources of export information together with types of data required by Asian and indigenous (white)‐owned small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK. Findings are primarily based on a large‐scale sample of UK firms and multivariate analysis is employed to establish that statistical differences exist between the groups of firms. Also reported are selected findings from a series of in‐depth interviews.
Barriers to market orientation: the view from the shopfloor
Authors: Harris Lloyd
Published: July 2002

Marketing theorists and practitioners have for many years extolled the need for and the value of developing a concept which has become known as a “market orientation”. Indeed, since the early 1950s a variety of researchers have argued that a market orientation is frequently associated with high levels of performance. However, despite the widespread acceptance of the merits of a market orientation, researchers have found comparatively low levels of adoption within British industry. The relatively limited extent of market orientation development is possibly explained through the findings of a number of studies which conclude that a wide range of organizational barriers impede market orientation. However, this paper argues that extant research into the barriers to market orientation is frequently restricted by the explicit concentration on management‐level barriers to the detriment of shopfloor‐derived impediments. Hence, via the exploratory case study of two retailing organizations, a typology of the barriers to market orientation development at the shopfloor level is presented. Implications for theorists and practitioners are identified and an action plan discussed.
Case study ‐ the leveraging of brand equities to create a category champion: Nestlé’s management of Crosse & Blackwell
Authors: Laverick Stuart
Published: July 2002

The paper focuses on how Nestlé, the Swiss based food multinational, is attempting to reinvigorate its long established British sub‐ house brand Crosse & Blackwell so that it can spearhead the company presence in key sectors of the UK food market. Brand bonding, the process which involves the transfusion of brand equities from corporate and product assets and associations, is applied. The role integrated marketing communications effort is playing in securing the desired position for Crosse & Blackwell, namely that of an innovative, convenient, tasty solution to food needs, is examined. The issue of the optimal presence for the house brand Nestlé is raised.
Stereo 3D representations in postmodern marketing research
Authors: Holbrook Morris B.
Published: July 2002

In marketing and consumer research, the application of subjective personal introspection, or SPI, to the understanding of one’s own consumption experiences benefits from the representation of such self‐reflective insights in the most vivid and compelling manner possible. Toward the latter end, stereographic three‐dimensional images may deepen the marketing or consumer researcher’s ability to communicate with managers and other readers in a suitably forceful, engaging, and transparent way. Thus, three‐dimensional photographs in the form of stereo pairs may provide corroborative evidence for the interpretations suggested by SPI or other research approaches. In this, literally, stereo 3D displays enhance the vividness, clarity, realism, and depth of communication between marketing researchers and their audience. But beyond that, figuratively, three‐dimensional stereography also serves as a metaphor to capture the essence of operating on the edge, of attaining profound insights, or of pursuing creativity in the postmodern world of consumption‐oriented hyperreality.
Performance and the service encounter: an exploration of narrative expectations and relationship management in the outdoor leisure market
Authors: Varley Peter , Crowther Geoff
Published: July 2002

This study of rockclimbers and outdoor leisure consumers, manufacturers and retailers, sets out to discover the nature and outcomes of the consumer/producer relationship centred around the retail setting. Initial theoretical views on the self, participant role, performance and communitas are explored as a background to the discussion. Data collection involved participant observation, in‐depth interviews and a study of both commercially and consumer generated secondary materials (climbing club literature for example). The researchers identified an environment in which temporary leisure identities were supported and at times modified by the retail relationships and were embedded in a rich sub‐cultural narrative. Postmodern concepts pertaining to the consumption of place and space corresponded with the observational data, to the extent that recommendations for retailers are less overtly managerial, and more about facilitating the consumer’s ownership of the spaces and relationships within them.
Design and innovation strategies within “successful” high‐tech firms
Authors: Crick Dave , Jones Marian
Published: July 2002

Reports on an ongoing empirical study into the characteristics and strategies of “successful” technologically oriented UK firms. Using survey data from samples of winners of the Queen’s Award for Technological Achievement and a comparative group of high‐technology firms, the study establishes that few statistical differences exist between the two groups and between specific sizes of firms in each sample in relation to aspects of their design and innovation strategies. The issues raised in this paper include: the way in which technological success is conceptualised; the usefulness of awards such as the Queen’s Award for Technological Achievement as a benchmark for innovative firms; and, the attitudes and activities of sample firms in relation to design and new product development strategies.
Taming the tiger: key success factors for trade with China
Authors: Martin Brett , Larsen Gretchen
Published: July 2002

With its large population and increasingly open approach to foreign business dealings, China has been heralded as a land of opportunity for Western business. “What are the keys to business success?” Addresses this issue by Investigating key success factors for trade with China. Presents results from a survey of New Zealand organisations trading with China. Top‐ranking issues reveal a micro‐business focus (e.g. negotiation strategy, business etiquette). Low‐ranking issues include the need to understand advertising in China, and to have an intensive knowledge of the Chinese language. Correlations between importance and knowledge scores suggest that cultural issues are perceived as less important by those with a high degree of knowledge concerning trade relation intermediaries. Larger firms are also found to rate an understanding of negotiation strategy as more important than small firms.
Implementing, monitoring and measuring a programme of relationship marketing
Authors: Lindgreen Adam , Crawford Ian
Published: July 2002

This single, embedded case study examined the marketing activities of Flensted Catering A/S, a Danish food company. The case is the first one in a series of case studies constituting a larger research project with the overall objective of understanding how to implement relationship marketing, how to monitor the outputs and how to measure the returns. In 1996, the company embarked on a three‐phase programme directed at building relations with customers. As a prelude to the implementation, Flensted Catering A/S conducted focus groups and issued questionnaires to determine customer perceptions of how the company could meliorate its performance. Subsequently, the Danish firm established project teams, instituted customer‐focused staff training and sought to improve communications with customers. Following the implementation, the monitoring revealed that Flensted Catering A/S was rated as a better supplier by 43 per cent of its customers and that customer retention had risen to 94 per cent
Relationship marketing: a concept beyond the primary relationship
Authors: Kandampully Jay , Duddy Ria
Published: July 2002

Asserts that an organisation’s ultimate goal of maintaining a loyal customer base transcends the obvious primary relationship of the organisation and its customers. The customer’s estimation of the value of the product/service is influenced by the inter‐relationships (secondary relationships), as it is these relationships that ultimately denote the value (core competence) of the product/service package. Identifies the firm’s secondary resource network and highlights the need for the marketing and management of various alliances for the firm’s long‐term prosperity, growth and leadership.
An expert system for new product development projects
Authors: Balachandra R.
Published: July 2002

New product development (NPD) project studies have attempted to identify a common set of factors that will indicate whether a NPD project will succeed or fail. A recent study has shown that there is no universal set of factors; also some factors have contradictory effects on a project’s success. A framework that classifies NPD projects into different contextual groups explains these anomalies. The grouping helps in determining the appropriate weights for the different success/failure factors, and the type of management organization and approach suitable for the project. The many subjective elements make classifying NPD projects into their appropriate contextual grouping difficult. Describes a rule‐based expert system which classifies NPD projects into their appropriate contextual groupings, suggests the level of emphasis for different success/failure factors and the right approach for managing.
Perennial management data systems issues in US manufacturing firms
Authors: Gilbert Arthur H. , Pick Roger Alan , Gail Ward Sidne
Published: July 2002

Based on a survey of manufacturing firms, with a questionnaire based on issues identified repeatedly in earlier studies, this paper details the most important information systems issues for a sample of US manufacturing firms. The top four issues were found to be data resources, competitive advantage, end‐user computing, and aligning the IS organization. The common thread among all top issues is a focus external to the IS organization, either enterprise‐wide issues or issues that transcend the boundary of the firm. A factor analysis of the data found an underlying three‐factor structure: enterprise‐wide issues, IS functional issues, and applications issues.
Decision support for the single‐period inventory problem
Authors: Walker John
Published: July 2002

The development of a decision support tool for the single‐period inventory problem is presented. The support tool allows a consideration of the following factors: empirical frequency distributions, theoretical probability distribution functions and managerial probability estimates of total demand over the period; piece‐wise linear (possibly discontinuous) cost functions. Such functions allow for the possibility of “fixed cost” elements and/or “economies/diseconomies” of scale and account for most, if not all, of the purchase cost, holding cost, salvage revenue and shortage cost functions that arise in practice; choice of performance measures; and “what‐if” analysis on the problem parameters. The support tool, which uses the Monte Carlo simulation option of Visual IFPS/Plus, is transparent and constructively simple and thus readily facilitates understanding, acceptance and implementation by management. The support tool runs under the Windows operating system and has easy access to appropriate spreadsheet and word‐processing packages for further processing and report presentation.
Business process reengineering for flexibility and innovation in manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Cao Mei
Published: July 2002

In response to an increasingly global and competitive environment, the flexibility to adapt to changing market needs and develop innovative cross‐functional processes is quintessential to success. Emphasizes that, in order to succeed in BPR, the firm must make the organizational structure change from a hierarchical to a flat form, management goals must change from being functional sub‐optimized to global‐optimization, process‐oriented measurement, and employees’ work must change from being fragmented to team‐oriented. It is important that the firm combine core business process reengineering and holistic outsourcing and rethink its business from an integrated, systematic “whole” and value chain viewpoint to beat competition with flexibility and innovation.
The effects of just‐in‐time systems on financial accounting metrics
Authors: Boyd David T. , Kronk Larry , Skinner Russell
Published: July 2002

The literature indicates that JIT has been successful as an inventory reduction tool. JIT systems do not, however, automatically increase profit, because the benefits from JIT adoption may be offset by the associated direct and indirect costs of implementation such as training, capital expenditures for reengineering, increased shipping costs, and the mechanics of the absorption costing process. Explores the trends of financial performance as indicated by accounting metrics and the magnitude of change in that performance. Seven commonly used financial ratios were studied covering a period from 1990 through 1999 for companies identified as having adopted the JIT philosophy. It is concluded that JIT effects positive trends in the shorter‐term financial measures. It is not clear how deeply entrenched in the US manufacturing strategy, as a whole, JIT practices will need to be deployed before shareholders will feel a significant effect.
Interrelationships between TMT management styles and organizational innovation
Authors: Wu Wann‐Yih , Chiang Chwan‐Yi , Jiang Jeng‐Sin
Published: July 2002

The major purpose of this study is empirically to investigate the relationships among management styles of top management teams (TMT), decision‐making modes, and organizational learning and innovation for manufacturing firms in Taiwan. Through a series of questionnaire surveys on 115 stock‐listed manufacturing firms in Taiwan, conclusions: arrives at the following firms having TMT with a higher level of empowerment and consensus management style tend to adopt a participative decision‐making mode and emphasize team learning; firms having TMT with aggressive and internal interaction characters tend to exercise higher levels of organizational learning and innovation; and firms with a higher extent of organizational learning tend to adopt participative decision‐making modes and perform better in innovation.
Computer Integrated Documentation
Authors: Parkin Robert M. , Dalay B.S.
Published: July 2002

The impact of advances in information technology has been widespread, but the fundamentals of effective communication have remained unchanged. Improvements to documentation tools, such as computer platforms, word processing software and printer output devices, have enabled standards of experiment reporting to be raised. To cultivate further the quality presentation of scientific instrument waveform images, techniques of direct computer interface are presented. Taking advantage of the widespread support of the plotter communications language HPGL, a generalized method for image transfer and incorporation within document processors is developed and supported by examples. The possibility of image enhancement is explored in a computer program that also integrates the supervised transfer of instrument data. The technique has been successfully introduced into several undergraduate student‐centred work packages. Among the many benefits have been the significant improvements in the presentation of dissertations.
Decision Support in Commodities Investment
Authors: Gulati Anil , Yasin Mahmoud M.
Published: July 2002

Presents an application of an expert system in the commodities market.
The system is designed to facilitate decision making with regard to when
to buy and sell. This system has several attractive features which make
it very appealing to users without much computer background. Executives
of large firms as well as individual investors can use this system to
time the market right.
Integrating Decision Support Systems in Organizations:
Authors: Kaula Rajeev
Published: July 2002

Decision support systems (DSS) like individual DSS, group DSS, or organization DSS, have traditionally been developed separately. Attempts to integrate their separate development into a unified framework. Specifies the relationship between the decisions supported by different DSS in organization, thereby making it necessary to have an integrated approach; along with an outline of the problems in the existing DSS environment towards proper integration. The ANSI/X3/SPARC database framework is utilized to develop a three‐level integrated DSS framework, that enables the integration of different types of DSS in organization. Suggests a knowledge‐based approach for implementing the proposed framework.
Scheduling in Multistage Flowshop Systems
Authors: Randhawa Sabah U. , Juwono Cynthia , Burhanuddin Sheikh
Published: July 2002

A heuristic algorithm, designed for freeze‐drying operations in the food
processing industry, is developed for a multistage system with parallel
machines and resource constraints. The system is extremely complex owing
to factors such as stage capacities, resource constraints and
requirements, set‐up charges, product mix, order sizes, and
co‐ordination of multiple stages. The primary objectives are meeting due
dates, minimizing workflow time, and maximizing equipment utilization.
The system is implemented to generate production schedules in a
microcomputer‐based operating environment.
Marketing Signals in Industrial Markets
Authors: Herbig Paul , Milewicz John C. , Gulbro Robert
Published: July 2002

Marketing signals, whereupon marketing activities provide information beyond the activity itself, can be implemented in a variety of marketing activities including advertising, pricing, quality control, and competitive reactions. Examines marketing signals as they are used in the industrial marketplace. Provides examples and specific applications for each specific characteristic associated with industrial marketing. Also provides observations and recommendations on their usage by industrial concerns.
A Computer‐based Inventory Management System for Spare Parts
Authors: Nagarur Nagen N. , Hu Tai‐san , Baid Nirmal K.
Published: July 2002

Describes the design and analysis of a computer‐based information system
for inventory management in a computer service company. Studies the
existing manual system for possible adaptation and necessary
modifications and identifies the requirements of the users and the
components of the system. To facilitate control, the parts are
classified into four categories. Various quantitative models for demand
forecast, economic order quantity, and safety stock are considered, and
for each part type, an appropriate set of models is used depending on
the relative importance of its category. The information system so
designed is implemented in a modular form. The database for this
application is implemented in dBASE III PLUS while the control programs
are written in CLIPPER tools. Extensive user interface is provided for
user‐friendliness.
Benefits Derived from JIT by European Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Kazazi A. , Keller A.Z.
Published: July 2002

In competitive world markets most manufacturing companies have learned
that survival is based on a commitment towards continual process, and
that product improvement competes with high quality of product and low
price. In today′s rapidly changing marketplace a company must deliver
low cost together with high quality and reliability of product to ensure
retaining adequate market share. The necessary improvements can be
achieved as have already been determined first by a large number of
Japanese companies and later by US and European companies with
implementation of suitable JIT systems. A number of articles have been
written, which attempt to identify and discuss the critical variable
essential for successful JIT implementation. To date little have
reported on quantitative tangible and intangible benefits of JIT.
Discusses tangible and intangible benefits which European companies have
derived from JIT.
Enhancing Performance through Employee Discretion and Feedback
Authors: Ardalan Alireza , Quarstein Vernon A. , McAfee R. Bruce
Published: July 2002

Many organizations are analysing the feasibility of using Japanese
production methods and concepts. Examines how allowing individuals
discretion in selecting among various production scheduling techniques,
combined with real‐time feedback, affects their job‐scheduling
performance. The results of the experiments involving sequencing jobs
through work centres, illustrate that when discretion was afforded,
performance improved. This result suggests that providing employees with
discretionary leeway and real‐time feedback enables them to improve the
production system continuously.
Organizational Design for Self‐managed Teams
Authors: Thibodeaux Mary S. , Faden Sandy K.
Published: July 2002

Explores the organizational components deemed necessary to the
development of heterogeneous self‐managed work teams. Explains the
interrelationship between organizational structure and strategies.
Describes the organic structure, with emphasis on formalization,
socialization, training and empowerment/ decentralization, as the
cornerstone of the development of these teams. Outlines strategies for
effective use of communication, shared values and trust.
Manufactoring: a wide product range at a low cost
Authors: Dale Kevin
Published: July 2002

Discusses how the adoption of a “manufactoring”
strategy can solve the dilemma of market demand for a wide range of
products and assesses the concomitant cost of producing and offering
such a strategy. To offer a full range of products to a growing number
of mini‐markets, the most cost‐effective option for manufacturers may be
found in the adoption of a make‐or‐buy “manufacturing”
strategy. Offers a new angle on the discussion of product line
management, drawing from a wide range of marketing areas and issues
including: product proliferation, “hypersegmentation”, joint
ventures and product development.
Justifying office automation: benefits and problems
Authors: Grantham Lisa
Published: July 2002

Difficulties in measuring the benefits of office automation are
preventing investment in systems. Examines the problems for
organizations attempting to cost‐justify office automation. Benefits
attributed to office automation used to be quantifiable, however, more
recently office automation is being used to support managers whose
benefits are much “softer” and not as quantifiable. Proposes
that today′s methods of justification focus too strongly on quantifiable
benefits and do not neccesarily justify expenditure on office systems.
Suggests that, while it is understandable that management will need to
be able to justify investments in financial terms, these methods need to
evolve to access benefits at both a quantitative and qualitative level
which will provide a more credible measure of the value of investments.
A profile of successful US manufacturers:
Authors: Yasin Mahmoud M. , Wafa Marwan A. , Zimmerer Thomas W.
Published: July 2002

Examines the relationship between business strategy, organizational
performance and manufacturing techniques and practices among 130 US
companies. The research supports the notion that innovative strategies,
which stress customer orientation and differentiation through the
careful manipulation of the operating systems to achieve higher levels
of quality, flexibility and dependability, form the basis for strategic
success.
IT outsourcing contracts: practical issues for management
Authors: Lee Matthew K.O.
Published: July 2002

Presents a practical and systematic overview of some key IT outsourcing contractual issues, exploring and highlighting management implications where appropriate. Discusses issues such as service level, transfer of assets, staffing, pricing and payment, warranty and liability, dispute resolution mechanism, termination, intellectual property matters, and information security. Gives practical advice on pre‐contractual negotiation and post‐contractual management. By discussing these issues systematically from a management and practical perspective, contributes to bridging the gap between theory and practice and seeks to offer useful information to management considering IT outsourcing.
Cross‐cultural negotiating processes
Authors: Gulbro Robert , Herbig Paul
Published: July 2002

Suggests that, in this age of the global economy, cross‐cultural negotiations are becoming increasingly important in the management and marketing process of many companies. Compares the cross‐cultural negotiation behaviour and differences in the perceived processes between product‐oriented and consumer‐product firms. Reports on significant differences between the two groups and provides analysis.
Bias in the development and use of an expert system: implications for life cycle costs
Authors: Shore Barry
Published: July 2002

Suggests that the development and use of an expert consulting system is vulnerable to biases in the subject‐matter expert, knowledge‐engineer, validators, maintainers and end‐users. An expert system, developed at a large insurance company, is used to study these biases. An economic model is then built to evaluate the trade‐offs which must be considered in the process of managing the source of these biases over the life cycle of an application.
Groupware: the next wave of office automation?
Authors: Williams Anne
Published: July 2002

Notes that the phenomenon of office automation (OA) is continually evolving and that groupworking and computer‐supported co‐operative working, supported by groupware products such as Lotus Notes, are seen as the next phase in the OA saga. Explores the concept of the “office” in today’s changing business and technological environment, and further evaluates whether groupware can lead to truly flexible and co‐operative working by identifying some of the philosophical and managerial issues this topic raises.
The impact of training technique on the difficulty of quality improvement problem solving
Authors: McCahon Cynthia S. , Rys Margaret J. , Ward Kenneth H.
Published: July 2002

A questionnaire surveying the type of training technique used (lecture, workshop, videotape, role playing, self tutorial (workbook) and self‐tutorial (computer)) for each of the seven steps in the quality improvement problem‐solving process was sent to 180 training directors in firms stating their participation in a quality improvement strategy. The training directors were then queried on the degree of difficulty experienced in executing each of the problem‐solving process steps. Evaluating the solution and final evaluation were shown to be the significantly most difficult steps to execute, and forming a team and identifying the problem were shown to be the least difficult steps; but the level of difficulty was not found to be related to the training technique used.