bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Redundancy and New Roles for Genes of the Autonomous Floral-Promotion Pathway
Authors: Veley Kira M. , Michaels Scott D.
Published: April 2008

The early-flowering habit of rapid-cycling accessions of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) is, in part, due to the genes of the autonomous floral-promotion pathway (AP). The AP promotes flowering by repressing expression of the floral inhibitor FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC). AP mutants are therefore late flowering due to elevated levels of FLC, and this late-flowering phenotype is eliminated by loss-of-function mutations in FLC. To further investigate the role of the AP, we created a series of double mutants. In contrast to the phenotypes of single mutants, which are largely limited to delayed flowering, a subset of AP double mutants show a range of defects in growth and development. These phenotypes include reduced size, chlorophyll content, growth rate, and fertility. Unlike the effects of the AP on flowering time, these phenotypes are FLC independent. Recent work has also shown that two AP genes, FCA and FPA, are required for the repression and, in some cases, proper DNA methylation of two transposons. We show that similar effects are seen for all AP genes tested. Microarray analysis of gene expression in AP single and double mutants, however, suggests that the AP is not likely to play a broad role in the repression of gene expression through DNA methylation: very few of the genes that have been reported to be up-regulated in DNA methylation mutants are misexpressed in AP mutants. Together, these data indicate that the genes of the AP play important and sometimes functionally redundant roles in aspects of development in addition to flowering time.
HD-ZIP III Activity Is Modulated by Competitive Inhibitors via a Feedback Loop inArabidopsisShoot Apical Meristem Development
Authors: Kim Youn-Sung , Kim Sang-Gyu , Lee Minsun , Lee Ilha , Park Hye-Young , Seo Pil Joon , Jung Jae-Hoon , Kwon Eun-Jung , Suh Se Won , Paek Kyung-Hee , Park Chung-Mo
Published: April 2008

Shoot apical meristem (SAM) development is coordinately regulated by two interdependent signaling events: one maintaining stem cell identity and the other governing the initiation of lateral organs from the flanks of the SAM. The signaling networks involved in this process are interconnected and are regulated by multiple molecular mechanisms. Class III homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-ZIP III) proteins are the most extensively studied transcription factors involved in this regulation. However, how different signals are integrated to maintain stem cell identity and to pattern lateral organ polarity remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that a small ZIP protein, ZPR3, and its functionally redundant homolog, ZPR4, negatively regulate the HD-ZIP III activity in SAM development. ZPR3 directly interacts with PHABULOSA (PHB) and other HD-ZIP III proteins via the ZIP motifs and forms nonfunctional heterodimers. Accordingly, a double mutant, zpr3-2 zpr4-2, exhibits an altered SAM activity with abnormal stem cell maintenance. However, the mutant displays normal patterning of leaf polarity. In addition, we show that PHB positively regulates ZPR3 expression. We therefore propose that HD-ZIP III activity in regulating SAM development is modulated by, among other things, a feedback loop involving the competitive inhibitors ZPR3 and ZPR4.
Knowledge creation and dissemination in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Ha Louisa , Nnajiofor Okigbo Raphael , Igboaka Primus
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this experimental study is to examine the effects of using broadband internet technology for creating and disseminating agricultural knowledge in Nigeria. A free broadband service Knowledge Center was established in the village of Ihiala with volunteer college students aiding the farmers in using the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

Pre‐ and post‐test interviews of a panel of female farmers were conducted before and after the establishment of a free broadband internet access service center and experimental web site. A survey of another 97 farmers in the village was conducted to examine awareness and perception of the Knowledge Center.

Findings

The data from the interviews show that farmers who visited the experimental web site evaluated the site positively as giving them relevant knowledge. Most importantly, the broadband service facility was unanimously rated by the users as a great place for socializing with and learning from other fellow farmers. They all encouraged their friends and relatives to use the center and said they would miss the center if it was discontinued.

Research limitation/implications

The limited funding can only examine the short‐term impact of the technology on the farmers. The demonstration of broadband internet's potential as an infrastructure in facilitating the creation and dissemination of knowledge among Nigerian farmers through this experiment can be deemed successful.

Practical implications

Customized information and socialization functions in a knowledge creation program are important to win the support of farmers.

Originality/value

This study is the first empirical study to examine the effects of technology on knowledge creation and dissemination based on a collaborative knowledge creation model.
How failure to align organizational climate and leadership style affects performance
Authors: Døjbak Haakonsson Dorthe , Burton Richard M. , Obel Børge , Lauridsen Jørgen
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how misalignments between the organizational climate (measured as information‐processing demand) and the leadership style (measured as information‐processing capability) may result in negative performance consequences.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical part of the paper is based on questionnaire data. Key informant is the CEO and thus there is a focus on the CEO's perception of climate and leadership style. Data are subjected to regression analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that misalignments between climate and leadership style are problematic for organizational performance. This is supported by the empirical findings that show partial support for three out of four hypotheses and full support for the fourth hypothesis.

Research limitations/implications

Data cover information on Danish small‐ and medium‐sized firms. These cross‐sectional data and cannot study the effects of misalignments over time.

Practical implications

Because the findings show that misalignments between climate and leadership style are problematic to organizational level of performance, this implies that in case of misfits either the climate or the leadership style must be changed.

Originality/value

The main contribution of the paper is that the framework allows an explicit understanding of which managerial actions are needed to manage particular types of climate. Further, the framework enables an understanding of how misalignments may result in poor performance.
Applying ANP approach to partner selection for strategic alliance
Authors: Chen Sheu‐Hua , Lee Hong‐Tau , Wu Yi‐Fen
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish a mechanism for partner selection via adapting relative weights of criteria according to the priority of motivations for establishing strategic alliance.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytic network process (ANP) approach derived from the idea of the Markov chain is employed to deal with this dynamic situation and to establish a partner selection mechanism. With this approach, the priority of motivations and the relative importance of criteria are determined simultaneously.

Findings

Although choosing an appropriate partner is an important variable influencing success of alliance, attempts to identify a universal list of criteria and their corresponding relative importance which enterprises should employ when seeking a proper partner would be futile since the objectives of forging alliances vary depending on specific motivations. Based on this iterative review approach proposed in this paper, a proper weight setting for these criteria is available and will comply with the original motivation for establishing the strategic alliance. This is essential for selecting an appropriate partner for establishing an alliance that matches the original motivation.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this research is the neglect of the possible inner dependence among criteria and sub‐criteria, although that can be coped with by choosing them properly.

Practical implications

The content of motivations and criteria as well as their priority and weightings may vary with different kinds of alliances or situations. The partner evaluation and selection mechanism proposed in this paper can meet different situations by adapting the relative weights of criteria and attributes according to the relationship between the criteria and motivations for every particular situation, thus enabling decision‐makers to think more comprehensively before conducting a selection process. If the priority of the motivations obtained from the mechanism is consistent with that set initially, the relative weights of these criteria can then be employed to evaluate the candidate partners in the selection mechanism. If it is not, the decision maker should reconsider the weighting process or measure again the relative weights for the criteria before conducting the evaluation and selection processes to avoid selecting an inappropriate partner that runs contrary to the original motivations.

Originality/value

The emphasis is on the interdependence between motivations and criteria for partner selection. This paper systematically deals with the interdependence of these two factors. Based on this iterative review approach proposed in this paper, a proper weight setting for these criteria is available and will comply with the original motivation for establishing the strategic alliance.
Operationalising critically reflective work behaviour
Authors: van Woerkom Marianne , Croon Marcel
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to operationalise critical reflection. Although critical reflection is widely recognised as a crucial element in individual and organisational learning, not many instruments exist to measure critical reflection in the context of work organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical reflection was operationalised by using a combination of a literature review and a survey.

Findings

Critically reflective work behaviour was defined as a set of connected activities carried out individually or in interaction with others, aimed at optimising individual or collective practices, or critically analysing and trying to change organizational or individual values. Based on the survey, an instrument was developed for measuring six dimensions of critically reflective work behaviour, namely, critical opinion‐sharing, asking for feedback, challenging group‐think, openness about mistakes, experimentation and career awareness.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should focus on the predictive validity of the instrument by relating it to performance appraisals from supervisors or to ratings of innovative behaviour. Further research could also focus on inter‐rater reliability by contrasting self‐ratings with ratings from colleagues and supervisors.

Practical implications

In combination with an instrument measuring organisational climate, the instrument may play a role in relating the work behaviour of employees to job characteristics and perceptions of organisational climate.

Originality/value

The concept of critically reflective work behaviour focuses on the role of the behaviour of all employees in the organisation in becoming a learning company.
Flexibility through HRM in management consulting firms
Authors: Carvalho Ana , Cabral‐Cardoso Carlos
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how functional and numerical flexibility can be successfully combined without workforce segmentation or flexible employment contracts, by implementing a highly integrated human resource management (HRM) system.

Design/methodology/approach

Six case studies were conducted between January 2002 and June 2003 in Portuguese affiliates of multinational management consulting firms using a grounded theory approach.

Findings

Evidence from the case studies showed that some of these companies were able to explore both functional and numerical flexibility in a combined and interdependent way, by operating a tightly run and highly coordinated set of HRM practices geared towards the development of internal labour markets.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses a sample of large multinational companies in a single sector, which limits the scope of these findings.

Practical implications

It is suggested that a strategy combining numerical and functional flexibility through an integrated set of HRM policies and practices will be more effective than segmenting the workforce or choosing between those two sources of flexibility.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new breadth for the role of HRM in achieving flexibility. Theoretically, it challenges the established notion that commitment‐based HRM serves only functional flexibility and that numerical flexibility can only be achieved through precarious employment.
Management innovation and cultural adaptivity in international online banking
Authors: Singer Daniel , Avery Albert , Baradwaj Babu
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is both to determine Citibank's response to cultural diversity in the dynamic, highly competitive global market for online banking facilities and services, and whether or not international online bank web sites are constructed in a manner sensitive to the culture of their host country.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the perspective of managing innovation for shareholder wealth maximization where consumer behavior is mediated through the technology acceptance model (TAM) belief constructs. The incorporation of variables reflecting Hofstede's four‐factor framework in 45 country‐specific web sites operated directly by Citibank are compared with those variables in 189 web sites of indigenous banks.

Findings

The results suggest that culture has an important influence on international online banking web sites and that Citibank has adapted the form and content of its web sites to local cultural influences in a manner comparable to that of the indigenous banks. Further, the role of each of Hofstede's four cultural dimensions is seen to influence the form and content of online bank web sites. This finding confirms earlier research about the role of culture in the TAM.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study are constrained by the extent to which the Hofstede framework actually captures the relevant dimensions of culture and the extent to which the measures of web site cultural attributes used in this study are valid. Further, the results are also limited by the fact that 23 of the Citibank web sites were located in countries for which Hofstede data were not available and by the small size of this study.

Practical implications

Success in the burgeoning and highly competitive online banking environment requires bank management to adapt their web sites to local cultural conditions. Small differences in language, the portrayal of individuals, and the background used in the site can significantly impact the acceptance of this distribution channel by the target population. This study confirms the importance of the cultural values of individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, and power distance with respect to consumer acceptance of online banking.

Originality/value

These findings provide guidance for bank managers as they expand their online banking operations into the international arena. They also support research confirming the importance of culture in determining international consumer behavior within the TAM.
Key drivers for the continued use of RFID technology in the emergency room
Authors: Chen Charlie C. , Wu Jiinpo , Sheng Su Yu , Yang Samuel C.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

More hospitals and caregivers are realizing the importance of radiofrequency identification (RFID) technology in the face of increased healthcare costs, medical errors, and pressure of governmental mandates. The necessity for and awareness of RFID has yet to drive its widespread adoption in the healthcare industry. As such, this study aims to examine key factors that contribute to the intention to continue using RFID.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts the expectation‐confirmation model (ECM) to study the intention of caregivers to continue using RFID as a vehicle to deliver emergency medical services. It is theorized that perceived usefulness of front‐end interoperability and back‐end interoperability along with performance expectancy contribute to confirmation experience, which in turn leads to satisfaction and ultimately to intention to continue to use RFID. The study surveys caregivers and staffs in the emergency room department of five hospitals in Taiwan.

Findings

Perceived usefulness of front‐end interoperability and performance expectancy both have significant relationships with confirmation experience; confirmation experience has a significant relationship with satisfaction, which in turn relates to intention to continue using RFID. The relationship between perceived usefulness of back‐end interoperability and confirmation experience is not significant.

Research limitations/implications

This study explains RFID adoption behavior using the ECM. Limitations of the study and possible future research direction are discussed.

Practical implications

The results of this study should help hospital management to build commitment to the RFID system and help equipment vendors to build loyalty to the technology.

Originality/value

This study represents a novel attempt to explain RFID adoption behavior using the ECM. It is expected that the proposed framework and empirical findings can contribute to further understanding of how RFID is adopted and used in a hospital environment.
Redefining product strategies in China: overcoming barriers to enter the medium market segment
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Gebauer Heiko , Fleisch Elgar
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The article provides guidance for managers seeking to successfully position their products in the Chinese medium market segment.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected and analyzed from about 25 international manufacturing companies.

Findings

Findings identify barriers and challenges and give guidance during strategy preparation, formulation, and implementation for entering the Chinese medium market segment.

Practical implications

Managers benefit from a practical framework to overcome barriers during the strategy process on market entry into the Chinese medium market segment.

Originality/value

New strategic potentials and risks in China's emerging market make entry into the medium market for international firms an imperative step.
De‐lagging Hong Kong's office price indices via State Space Model with Kalman filter
Authors: Chi Man Hui Eddie , Hung Yu Ka
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to find out whether lagging problems exist within Hong Kong's office values.

Design/methodology/approach

A State Space Model with the Kalman filter is deployed in detecting the extent of lagging errors in Hong Kong's office price indices, proffered by the ratings and valuation department (RVD).

Findings

The findings suggest that about one year of lagging errors exists in RVD's office price indices compared with the stock market property indices. Also, the finding suggests that the Kalman filter provides a more efficient form of estimates for real estate values and returns.

Originality/value

While most studies investigating lagging problems of appraisal‐based returns concentrate on the US real estate market, studies in this regard for Asian countries (or cities) are few and far between. Hong Kong, in particular, is worth studying, considering its established role as a financial centre in South East Asia. This paper also provides some insights for further studies on the prediction of future real estate values, in particular those with fewer transactions.
Choice of property management system for residential strata developments in Singapore
Authors: Christudason Alice
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This study aims to enlighten strata property owners about the importance of choosing the appropriate vehicle for the management of the common property in their strata development.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology employed for this inquiry is a case study of two residential strata‐titled properties. The two were selected on the basis that, although they share certain similar characteristics including age, tenure and locational attributes, each employs different systems of property management. Data were gathered mainly through interviews with the Property Managers and Chairs of the Management Council. Interviews were also carried out with professionals in the real estate industry specializing in property and facilities management.

Findings

The study reveals the various factors of which Management Corporations should be mindful when deciding what form of property management vehicle to use. Careful consideration of these factors will result in a decision that not only is cost‐effective, but also provides greater efficiency in the management and maintenance of the strata titled development.

Practical implications

Careful consideration of the factors revealed in the findings can result in a decision by the Management Corporation, which is cost‐effective. Evaluation of the factors will also result in greater efficiency in the management and maintenance of common property in the strata titled development.

Originality/value

This is an up‐to‐date comparison of two property management systems available to strata developments, in the context of the Singapore Land Titles (Strata) Act, which is based on New South Wales' legislation. The information is useful for strata owners and Management Councils in other jurisdictions in that it provides pointers on the choice of a property management system.
The impact of management measures on performance of outsourced professional housing maintenance services
Authors: Lam Terence Y.M.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate the actual impact of management practices on performance quality of the outsourced professional housing maintenance services in Hong Kong. Much of the literature is theoretically based and there is a knowledge gap in empirical confirmatory testing of the validity of the theories for effective management of the outsourced professional services.

Design/methodology/approach

It was hypothesized that there was positive correlation between output performance quality and input management factors. Triangulation methodology was used to develop and test the correlation whereby literature review and qualitative interviews with the maintenance consultancy management practitioners of the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) were used to generate the hypothesis which was then tested by quantitative regression, using data from the maintenance consultancies of the Authority.

Findings

The hypothesis was transformed into sub‐hypotheses, which were primarily positive relationships, between service quality and individual input factors of competition level, past performance, project leadership and quality benchmarking. Results of the qualitative and quantitative studies confirmed and validated the hypotheses, and hence substantiated that there is a significant correlation between performance quality and the relevant management practices in the outsourcing process of professional housing maintenance services.

Research limitations/implications

Whilst the correlation is validated in the context of professional housing maintenance services of the HKHA, it forms a conceptual baseline on which further research can build to test its significance for many other public and private sector settings, and for various professional property management services. Effective management measures can be identified to optimize performance quality.

Practical implications

This paper establishes the validity of the impact of management practices that property managers can apply to enhance the quality of outsourced professional housing maintenance services for the benefit of their customers and organizations.

Originality/value

This study should contribute to management of outsourced professional services in the context of housing. Property managers can enhance the performance quality of their professional consultants by applying effective management measures so that they can optimize service quality to satisfy the ever‐increasing tenant and owner expectations of value for money property services from outsourcing.
Review of social landlords' implementation of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Housing Action Plan for Wales
Authors: Duncan Rosanna , Mortimer Julianne
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The main aim of this study is to ascertain the progress in implementing the actions contained within the BME Housing Action Plan for Wales, by the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) and social landlords in Wales.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out between December 2004 and May 2005. This paper discusses some of the main findings from the systematic review of BME housing strategies and action plans covering 22 local authorities and 32 housing associations in Wales.

Findings

It was clear from all aspects of the research that the WAG's BME Housing Action Plan for Wales is having a positive impact on the profile and awareness of BME housing issues in Wales. However, the degree and extent of progress varied throughout Wales.

Research limitations/implications

BME housing issues have a high profile in the social housing sector in Wales. It is important that this positive profile is maintained and does not lose momentum due to increasing and competing priorities.

Practical implications

Currently, the lack of incentives for compliance (and penalties for non‐compliance) presents a potential disincentive to the long‐term sustainability of the present enthusiasm and momentum on BME housing issues in Wales.

Originality/value

This research is the first to evaluate the progress made by social landlords in implementing the WAG's BME Housing Action Plan for Wales.
Development of a learning system for a museum collection of print‐related artifacts
Authors: Fan Cheng‐Wei , Huang Jun‐Fu , Fang Rong‐Jyue
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the concepts of the digital collection of Taiwanese technological artifacts and reliable industrial technology, to proceed with the digitalization of the collected objects and their related literature, and to classify the pictorial, written, audio, and visual information of the database of the relief printing technology into groups with the principle focus on the National Science and Technology Museum collection.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the application of the Metalogy software to develop a system that would satisfy the museum's managerial staff, researchers, and general viewers' demands on the same management and learning module.

Findings

The paper shows that a competitive digital collection web site has been implemented for the museum learning system.

Originality/value

The paper describes a very practical and useful learning system for the museum digital collection. This database can be developed as a system for the museum's technological artifacts resource, and thus become a precious digital asset of technological artifacts in Taiwan.
Contextualization of web searching: a grounded theory approach
Authors: Mansourian Yazdan
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to report selective findings of a wider study on interaction of users with web‐based search tools to underline the importance of context in information seeking on the web and to introduce some of the contextual elements of web search context.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of intensive and in‐depth interviews was carried out with a sample of the Biology Community at the University of Sheffield. Critical Incident Technique (CIT) was employed in the interview protocol and the collected data was inductively analyzed in the light of Grounded Theory approach.

Findings

The results strongly suggest that considering the context of search is a pivotal factor in understanding users' behaviours, feelings, and thoughts during the period of information seeking in an online environment. Five categories have been identified as the main contextual elements which affect search performance of end users. These categories include web users' characteristics; type of the employed search tool; search topic; search situation; and features of the retrieved information resources. Each category has its subcategories which have been illustrated in the paper.

Research limitations/implications

This study was carried out based on a relatively small sample of academia and therefore the results cannot be easily generalized to the wide community of web users. The results of this study should be able to make information literacy education more effective by using information seeking behaviour research discoveries. This study demonstrated that the outcome of any information literacy courses would be more efficient if the contextual factors – which have been identified and illuminated in this study – were considered in the educational agenda.

Originality/value

The study possesses three characteristics that make it different from other studies in the related areas. First of all, it took an in‐depth insight to the interaction of end users with the web in real situations. Secondly it focused on a specific targeted group, the academic biology community. Thirdly the study adopted a qualitative approach, in contrast with mainly quantitative web research.
A novel self‐organising clustering model for time‐event documents
Authors: Hung Chihli , Wermter Stefan
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine neural document clustering techniques, e.g. self‐organising map (SOM) or growing neural gas (GNG), usually assume that textual information is stationary on the quantity.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a novel dynamic adaptive self‐organising hybrid (DASH) model, which adapts to time‐event news collections not only to the neural topological structure but also to its main parameters in a non‐stationary environment. Based on features of a time‐event news collection in a non‐stationary environment, they review the main current neural clustering models. The main deficiency is a need of pre‐definition of the thresholds of unit‐growing and unit‐pruning. Thus, the dynamic adaptive self‐organising hybrid (DASH) model is designed for a non‐stationary environment.

Findings

The paper compares DASH with SOM and GNG based on an artificial jumping corner data set and a real world Reuters news collection. According to the experimental results, the DASH model is more effective than SOM and GNG for time‐event document clustering.

Practical implications

A real world environment is dynamic. This paper provides an approach to present news clustering in a non‐stationary environment.

Originality/value

Text clustering in a non‐stationary environment is a novel concept. The paper demonstrates DASH, which can deal with a real world data set in a non‐stationary environment.
A data envelopment analysis‐based balanced scorecard for measuring the comparative efficiency of Korean luxury hotels
Authors: Min Hokey , Min Hyesung , Joo Seong‐Jong
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a balanced scorecard for measuring the comparative efficiency of Korean luxury hotels and then set the benchmark of performance standards for Korean luxury hotels in the increasingly competitive hotel industry. It also aims to identify the root causes of inefficiencies and then propose ways to improve the competitiveness of Korean luxury hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes data envelopment analysis (DEA) to measure the comparative efficiency of six luxury hotel chains in Korea, relative to prior periods and their key competitors. In particular, this paper develops the Charnes, Cooper and Rhodes (CCR) model that is designed to derive weights without being fixed in advance. Also, the results of the CCR model with constant returns to scale were compared to those of the Banker, Charnes and Cooper (BCC) model with decreasing returns to scale.

Findings

The paper finds that the declining efficiency within some Korean luxury hotels coincides with more aggressive government crackdowns on bad bank loans in the wake of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial crisis and the slow adaptation of some hotels into ongoing hotel industry restructuring. The deep discount in hotel room rates did not necessarily lead to increased room occupancy. The revenue increase is not significantly correlated with the enhanced profitability of Korean luxury hotels. The Korean hotel industry reached the stage of market maturity and therefore the mere expansion of the hotel capacity would not necessarily enhance the hotel's profitability.

Originality/value

This paper uncovers the financial weaknesses and strengths of the Korean luxury hotels and identifies challenges and opportunities for the Korean hotel industry. In addition, it helps Korean hotels formulate the future survival strategies by providing the detailed picture of where they stand in terms of competitiveness. This paper is one of the first attempts to utilise DEA to develop performance measures for hotels under the balanced scorecard framework. The proposed DEA can be easily modified or extended to similar settings in other hotels such as budget hotels or other countries such as USA and Japan.
Pay‐off selection criteria for quality and improvement initiatives
Authors: Thawesaengskulthai Natcha , Tannock James D.T.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The variety of possible quality management (QM) and continuous improvement (CI) initiatives and their various possible permutations can make it difficult for a company to choose the best approach for their requirements. This paper aims to address the selection issue by presenting a method to compare popular QM and CI initiatives from the perspective of the pay‐offs, or expected benefits, to an organisation which successfully adopts the approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The relevant QM and CI literature was analysed, examining key initiatives and their reported pay‐offs to the organisation. A matrix diagram approach is introduced which presents the extent and credibility of arguments advanced for these initiatives, in seven categories of pay‐off. A system of assessment is proposed, which quantifies the extent and weight of empirical evidence and estimates the strength of the claim for each pay‐off.

Findings

The pay‐off matrix summarises the claims in each of the pay‐off categories, assesses their credibility, and displays the similarities and differences for six key initiatives: total quality management, six sigma, ISO 9000, business process reengineering, lean and business excellence. Graphical pay‐off profiles are presented. Significant differences between the claimed pay‐offs for these initiatives are identified, analysed and discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed matrix and assessment system attempts to support a comprehensive and rational approach to assess the pay‐offs of QM and CI initiatives. As with any analysis of literature, there is inevitably an element of selection, but this approach consciously attempts to avoid omission and promote objectivity. The analysis is based on articles published between 1990 and 2005. Hence, new research and additional evidence may change the weight and credibility of claims.

Originality/value

This paper suggests a way in which evidence from the literature might be most effectively used by managers for decision support in the choice of quality and improvement initiatives. A similar approach might also be used for other areas, where businesses face choices and a considerable body of evidence exists to assist the decision‐making process.
Control charts with predetermined sampling intervals
Authors: Rodrigues Dias J. , Infante Paulo
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate a new sampling methodology previously proposed for systems with a known lifetime distribution: the Predetermined Sampling Intervals (PSI) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is defined on basis of system hazard cumulative rate, and is compared with other approaches, particularly those whose parameters may change in real time, taking into account current sample information.

Findings

For different lifetime distributions, the results obtained for adjusted average time to signal (AATS) using a control chart for the sample mean are presented and analysed. They demonstrate the high degree of statistical performance of this sampling procedure, particularly when used in systems with an increasing failure rate distribution.

Practical implications

This PSI method is important from a quality and reliability management point of view.

Originality/value

This methodology involves a process by which sampling instants are obtained at the beginning of the process to be controlled. Also this new approach allows for statistical comparison with other sampling schemes, which is a novel feature.
Optimum inspection policies of reliability analysis for quantal‐response product with Weibull lifetime components
Authors: Chen Yun‐Shiow , Pan Chung‐Chu , Yang Wei‐Ning
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to show that modern markets are characterized by rapidly changing environments and numerous external forces. Under these conditions, product lifetimes are rapidly reducing. Therefore, products require optimum inspection policies to maintain high quality and reduce costs in the competitive market. This study aims to establish optimal inspection policies of reliability analysis for quantal‐response product with Weibull lifetime components.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers a product consisting of m different components in series with lifetimes that follow Weibull distributions, and applies a competing failure model to examine the proposed series system for quantal‐response products. The maximum likelihood estimators of parameters of the Weibull distribution are derived based on the quantal‐response data in the proposed series system. The statistical features of the model are illustrated through a numerical example of two‐component series products, and the properties of the maximum likelihood estimators were studied via Monte Carlo simulation under a two‐stage inspected scheme for various sampling sizes and inspection time conditions.

Findings

Simulation results demonstrate not only that the optimum inspection condition is the inspection times at T1=0.2 and T2=0.5 for the two‐stage inspected scheme, but also that the economical sampling size is 150 for both cases.

Originality/value

This research results can be applied to the analysis of one‐shot products, e.g. firework, ammunition, airbag, injector, with Weibull components lifetime distribution or the stockpile storage test.
University approach to knowledge management
Authors: Tikhomirova Natalya , Gritsenko Anatoly , Pechenkin Alexander
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe several Knowledge Management initiatives at Moscow State University of Economics, Statistics and Informatics (MESI).

Design/methodology/approach

The design of the paper takes the form of an interview.

Findings

MESI has successfully established Quality Management and E‐Learning Systems and is on a fast track for total KM implementation.

Originality/value

Describes the implementation of a KM system at MESI, providing a model and case study for other universities to follow.
The changing face of KM
Authors: Sinclair Niall
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The ever‐changing nature of the knowledge management (KM) landscape means that many organizations are becoming confused as to what exactly KM is anymore, and what exactly is important, or not, to them as they attempt to understand and implement KM. Accordingly, many organizations are looking for help in understanding KM, and the purpose of this paper is to attempt to provide them with an analysis of some of the challenges they will face, and how they can meet those challenges. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents an overview of typical KM types in most organizations, and looks to explain why they exist, and how they can be effectively facilitated and managed.

Findings

New variations on traditional KM themes, such as Social Networks, Stealth, Personal KM, have emerged over the last few years and many organizations are confused as to what they should, or need, to include in their KM initiatives in order to ensure they are as effective as possible.

Originality/value

The paper examines: what types of KM are evident in most organizations; what drivers and objectives are associated with each type of KM; how the various types of KM intersect, or don't, from a corporate perspective; and, what organizations can do to ensure each type of KM is successful and supports an overall organizational strategy for KM.
Exploring the contextual dimensions of organization from knowledge management perspective
Authors: Jafari Mostafa , Fathian Mohammad , Jahani Alireza , Akhavan Peyman
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the contextual dimensions of organizations for finding the interactions between of these dimensions and knowledge management (KM) and to identify the critical success factors, drivers and constraints, relevant to the implementation of KM in the Tehran business environment. The most research of KM merely pays attention to its relation with dimensions of the organizations especially contextual dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

A new exploration based on research experiences of the KM is formalized as an extension of the model by Daft. The present article reports the empirical findings of a survey conducted among managers and experts in Tehran. In this survey we give them a questionnaire that contains some questions related to the mentioned dimensions and asked about relations of them and KM critical success factors for better implementation based on factor analysis. The questionnaire reflects insights gained from a mix of individual choice models developed by various researchers and Delphi technique.

Findings

This research finds seven critical success factors, Collaboration and knowledge workers, Technology Deployment, Learning Culture, Flat Structures, Supply Chain Integration, Comprehensive strategies and Flexible Organizations, which related to the conceptual Dimensions of organizations and also drivers and constraints of KM implementation.

Research limitations/implications

This framework reflects the interactions between contextual dimensions and KM. It may need further research to be used for structural dimensions of the organizations.

Originality/value

Using this research, organizations interested in implementing KM may be familiar with the impacts of KM implementation and contextual dimensions on each other for achieving the desirable outcomes.
Exploring the role ofBain family business context
Authors: Brännback Malin , Carsrud Alan , Schulte William D.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the family business succession process using Nonaka's theory of knowledge creation and conceptualisation of a knowledge‐creating place,Bato enhance one's understanding of critical managerial challenges in family business succession.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on literature review, Nonaka's theory of knowledge creation and knowledge‐creating space is applied to the family business succession process.

Findings

Through literature review and synthesis thereof the paper concludes that Nonaka's theory of knowledge creation is a highly valid framework for analyzing and supporting the family business succession process. The paper proposes thatBais a perception of a place – the family firm – and a shared purpose among family members in that firm. It is posited that the absence ofBacan be a significant barrier to a family firm adopting a successful succession process. Creating aBais essential for family firms to survive.

Research limitations/implications

Only propositions are presented, but they serve as valid research questions for future research.

Originality/value

Previous research of knowledge management processes and applications in family business context is scarce. Moreover, research on succession in family firms has not been considered as a knowledge creating and sharing process. This paper applies a valid and widely used model to the context of family firms and adopts the view that a succession process in essence is a knowledge creating and sharing process.
Knowledge capture within the biopharmaceutical clinical trials environment
Authors: Grossman Martin , Bates Stephen
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of knowledge capture in the biopharmaceutical industry, focusing primarily on the transition from paper‐based to electronic data capture (EDC) systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on biopharmaceutical industry literature and data from example clinical studies to describe the issues involved in transitioning to EDC in the clinical trials environment.

Findings

While electronic data capture systems provide greater efficiencies along the clinical trial supply chain, the industry is still far from achieving wide scale utilization of such technologies. The barriers to successful implementation are multifaceted, involving not only the information technology itself, but also user acceptance issues, lack of interoperability standards, and regulatory compliance. Major shifts in organizational culture and a unified effort within the industry will be necessary in order to derive full benefits from electronic capture systems in the future.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited in that case data from only one company was used to supplement the literature review. Further research is warranted to better understand the factors that facilitate adoption of electronic knowledge capture systems in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Originality/value

While the need for knowledge management in the healthcare industry is indisputable, there has been remarkably slow progress in this area, and a dearth of research exploring implementation issues. The value of this type of inquiry is profound as it will help us better understand the issues in implementation and adoption, and ultimately to deliver more effective and safe drugs to the public in a more efficient manner.
The relationship between improving the management of projects and the use of KM
Authors: Lierni Peter C. , Ribière Vincent M.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether there is a relationship between improving the management of projects and the use of knowledge management (KM). Additionally, this paper sought to determine if KM practices in use by practitioners of project management are significant in terms of improving the management of projects, as well as the impact of these KM practices in use by practitioners on improving the management of projects.

Design/methodology/approach

A main research question supported by seven research hypotheses were postulated. A survey was used to collect data from 99 project managers randomly selected from the list of worldwide members of the project management Institute (PMI).

Findings

The findings reveal the influence of KM on the improvement of the management of projects. The KM practices and tools mostly used by project managers are presented.

Originality/value

This study is the first one of the type that tries to identify and to demonstrate the relationship between the fields of KM and project management through the collection of data among project management practitioners.