bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organisation of Public Management Education in Africa’s
Crisis Situation – Lessons of a Nigerian Experience
Authors: Ayeni Victor
Published: May 2006

Public sector management education in the developing countries of
the third world is focused on with regard to the situtation in Nigeria.
The efforts and potential of a particular management training
institution, the Faculty of Administration at Obafemi Awolowo
University, are reviewed, first by tracing the development of its
management training programmes and then outlining the current courses
and activities. An assessment is made of the institution′s programmes as
a credible management training response to the particular problems it
faces in the current African situation, and it is found that the
institution may not fully appreciate the new role‐expectations built
around it as detailed in The World Bank report (1987) on management
training for African development. Recommendations are given for African
training institutions in general: future policy cannot exclude the
reality of the particular country′s economic situation; existing
personnel must be encouraged to specialise; there must be flexible
arrangements for teaching and consultancy; adequate resources must be
available; and there must be a fundamental change in the philosophy of
the training institutions.
International Diversification: Role of the Public Sector in
Singapore
Authors: Chwee‐huat Tan
Published: May 2006

Several public enterprises in Singapore have been privatised after
being criticised for their dominance in the economy. Others continue
their pioneering role in expanding international operations especially
in telecommunications and information technology. International
diversification, visibility and technological advancement will ensure
that their share will be well subscribed by both domestic and foreign
investors in due course.
The Role of the Cities and Villages Development Bank of
Jordan in the Development Programme
Authors: Younis Talib
Published: May 2006

Details the findings of research into the establishment of the
Cities and Villages Development Bank (CVDB) of Jordan. The structure of
the bank, its objectives and its internal procedures and mechanisms for
providing assistance to local authorities in identifying priorities for
area development are also set out. The role of the CVDB in providing
funding and technical expertise, and in project administration and
budgetary control is also discussed. Describes the types of project to
which the bank is intended to lend support, and the actual borrowing by
local councils in the Al‐Balqa governate in 1987 and 1988.
Entrepreneurship and Small Industry Development in the
Commonwealth
Authors: Fadahunsi Olu
Published: May 2006

The article presents an overview of discussions, particularly
concerning developing countries in the Common‐wealth, of the role of
small enterprises as a viable means of promoting self‐reliance in
economic development and diversity. Encouragement of the entrepreneurial
spirit and skills is vital in this context. These are examined in detail
and Commonwealth experiences are summarised with special emphasis on
attitudes to entrepreneurs, women as entrepreneurs and the importance of
training by experienced professionals.
Stress management
Authors: Huson Sally‐Ann
Published: May 2006

Discusses the relationship between stress and performance. Provides
a human function curve of related symptoms. Explains the most common
stressors including change. Offers advice on looking after yourself
physically and emotionally. Concludes that with well‐thought‐out and
planned commitment to managing stress lives are a pleasure to lead, even
when things are going badly.
BP Exploration and upward feedback
Authors: Willard Joyce , Thomas Andy
Published: May 2006

Explains how senior management determined to achieve a more open
style in the workplace based on committed teams engaged in open and
honest communication to plan and achieve corporate, business and
individual objectives. Using a 23‐point questionnaire returned
anonymously by staff the results were aggregated by a consultant firm.
Results shared between manager and staff showed that being negative
increases the problems in the workplace. Suggests that other
organisations searching for ways to increase the effectiveness of their
workforce should consider the use of upward feedback.
Developing senior management potential
Authors: Kerr Scott
Published: May 2006

Discusses the development of potential in middle managers.
Describes the development of competence in key areas and creating the
mechanism for learning including action learning groups, performance
management programmes and development centres. Concludes that the
transition from middle to senior management should be more like a
campaign march than a leap into the unknown.
Turning senior executives into independents
Authors: Russam Charles M
Published: May 2006

Provides advice for senior executives considering moving into
independent consultancy. Details a six‐day programme dealing with
appearance, skills, communication/presentation, information technology,
personal finance, and sales and marketing. Considers the impact of
changing from office to home base. Concludes that temporary and interim
executive services will become as acceptable as management consultancy
itself.
Learning to manage‐Managing to learn: Part two
Authors: Calvert Roy
Published: May 2006

Discusses the process of change in an organisation via learning.
Comments on developing and checking out the vision needed which leads to
a strategic plan and the sorting out of a sequence of events to achieve
it. Looks at the learning culture combined with the approach taken to
management development within that culture. Concludes that only by
developing breadth in its education can an organisation develop
executives that have the vision, foresight, planning, will,
adaptability, social skills and stamina to succeed.
A balancing act
Authors: Storan James
Published: May 2006

Introduces necessary rules for balancing work and leisure time.
Defines “playaholism” as leisure time that becomes as
stressed as working. Suggests methods of balancing differing forms of
leisure time to produce a period that is totally relaxing and
recreational. Provides a playaholic quotient questionnaire.
Innovation in the 1990s
Authors: Owen Peter
Published: May 2006

Suggests three factors are responsible for innovation in all its
aspects moving to the top of the management agenda: increasing
internationalism, increasing competition, and new bases of competition.
Discusses the role of the individual, the team, corporate organisation
and management and senior management behaviour. Concludes that
corporate‐level attention is needed to intergrate all innovative
management activity into a coherent whole.
Banking on excellence at First Union
Authors: Flynn Jill S
Published: May 2006

Reports on a training and development programme tailored especially
for newly merged consumer bankers. Describes a two‐week programme called
Consumer Sales Academy to teach the necessary skills and develop
confidence and enthusiasm. Discusses feedback, follow‐up and evaluation
of the Academy experience. Concludes that the programme made a
significant contribution to creating a single culture in a Florida
consumer bank.
Building a global team at Sterling Drug
Authors: Fulmer Robert M , Goodwin Jack
Published: May 2006

Describes the two‐core management development programmes. Featuring
internationally known business school faculty and consultants the first
core stressed global strategic thinking: achieving world class
excellence. Describes the integration of the International Division
corporate strategy. Concludes that the key lessons include leadership,
informed planning and eventual in‐house ownership of the programmes.
The Dynamics and Performance of Female‐owned
Entrepreneurial Firms in London, Glasgow and Nottingham
Authors: Carter Sara
Published: May 2006

The dynamics and performance of female‐owned companies in the
United Kingdom are focused on. Women can be differentiated by
behavioural and motivational factors in their desire to start up in
business, although these groupings are fluid and women are capable of
changing into different modes of entrepreneur. The personal ambitions of
women and their domestic arrangements largely determine the ways in
which their enterprises evolve. The performance of the businesses is
then explored from the perspective of individual qualitative and
quantitative criteria of success. Initial success was not judged in
terms of conventional economic criteria of profitability and advance
orders. Regardless of business age, differences do appear between
current and future success criteria.
Towards a Manager′s Model for Initiating Change Projects
Authors: Lundberg Craig C.
Published: May 2006

Two related issues are offered. One
discusses and outlines a focused model
from the point of view of the
practitioner, i.e. a “manager′s model”.
Secondly, the model′s focus is
concerned with how a manager can go
about initiating a “change project”, i.e.
it describes the process of selecting an
appropriate way to begin to solve a
perceived problem.
The Changing Demographics: Are Corporations Prepared to Meet the Challenge?
Authors: Graddick Mirian M. , Bassman Emily , Giordano Joanne M.
Published: May 2006

A small sample of leading edge
companies was studied to see how
firms are addressing the changing
workforce. Generally, HR planners and
business leaders are very aware of the
issues. Some companies have even
begun to put in place innovative HR
programmes designed to meet the
needs of the changing workforce. A
key challenge for many HR planners,
however, is to convey urgency in
addressing the issues and translate
issues into specific programmes and
policies.
Adapting Strategic Planning to the Changing Needs of a
Business
Authors: Chakravarthy Balaji S. , Lorange Peter
Published: May 2006

If strategic planning systems have failed it is because managers
have failed to adapt them to the changed contexts of their businesses.
Four distinct contexts are identified: Pioneer, Expand, Reorient, and
Dominate. These labels are chosen to indicate the primary challenge for
the business unit in each of these contexts. The contexts vary in their
risk and in the adaptation and/or integration orientation that they
demand of the strategic planning system. Four key elements of the
strategic planning system: direction of goal setting, time‐spending
patterns in planning, the relative importance of the strategic budget,
and the linkage between the financial plan and the budgets, are
identified. Each can be manipulated to adapt the system to suit the
firm′s business context.
Customised purchasing
Authors: Embleton David
Published: May 2006

Argues that unless software system purchase is tightly controlled, any subsequent development contract is likely to fail technically, financially or in meeting user requirements. Suggests how to avoid this during the system procurement process using structured methods against detailed assessment criteria. Examines the content of a technical specification which defines criteria in detail. Concludes that causes of the stream of disastrous projects in the 1970s and 1980s have largely been resolved as procurement agencies recognise the importance of involving the quality assurance department.
Strategic change
Authors: Creelman James
Published: May 2006

Examination of BP Chemicals′ integration of TQM into its corporate strategy, helping to turn around a £200 million loss in 1981. Shows how the crisis led to a will to survive among the workforce and the launch of a campaign to provide what BP′s customers were asking for, namely, consistent quality. Outlines the culture shock involved in emphasising product consistency and working as a partner with customers ‐ all now integral to BP′s way of working. Illustrates how more people were brought into the decision‐making processes, changing the leadership style from direction and delegation to coaching and supporting. Concludes that BP Chemicals has found a better way to do business and is enjoying tangible benefits from TQM even though, at the time of writing, there is a deep recession in the marketplace.
Putting the ″M″ in TQM
Authors: Smyth Clem
Published: May 2006

Reveals the key steps to managing the organisation as a whole to facilitate company‐wide continuous improvement. Describes the management systems and structure necessary to steer quality improvement efforts, including logistics, responsiveness/flexibility and teamwork. Highlights the need to translate these key strategies into definable, measurable and time‐phased plans and activities, such as education and training, but always linked directly to operational activities. Examines the role of teams and individual managers in planning, leading and controlling and concludes with a restatement of the model and responsibilities of those involved in the TQM process.
Highlights: I. Irradiated Foods and Irrational Minds: Some
Food for Thought II. Medical Waste Legislation: Is it Really Necessary?
Authors: Llaurado J.G.
Published: May 2006

Two items are highlighted: I. The pros and cons of food irradiation
and public reaction to this; II. the stringency which which medical
wastes disposal should be regulated especially when compared to other
possibly hazardous wastes.
Carbon Monoxide Levels: Individuals Occupationally Exposed
to Vehicle Exhaust
Authors: Read Robert C. , Green Malcolm
Published: May 2006

Using a portable breath carbon monoxide analyser, breath carbon
monoxide (CO) of non‐smoking police motorcyclists in central London was
found to be consistently elevated in comparison to non‐smoking
pedestrians. Although the highest levels were found among smokers, some
of the non‐smoking policemen had similar levels to their smoking
colleagues. The highest levels among non‐smoking police personnel were
found in a group of car mechanics working in a partially enclosed
garage. Among the non‐smoking police motorcyclists the highest levels
were seen on the day with the highest maximum average hourly ambient CO,
the lowest wind speed and the highest air temperature. We conclude that
occupational exposure to exhaust fumes leads to elevated levels of
breath CO.
Prevention of Dental Caries by Xylitol
Authors: Mäkinen Kauko K.
Published: May 2006

Dental caries is caused by a diet‐associated pathologic process
affecting the teeth. This is an infectious, transmissible disease, the
infecting agents being specific micro‐organisms, with a streptococcal
species, i.e. Streptococcus mutans (or other members of the
so‐called mutans streptococci), being especially cariogenic under
certain dietary conditions. The transmissibility of the disease is
reflected, for example, in the fact that young children usually receive
their S. mutans infection from their mothers. According to
present scientific knowledge, dental caries should be fully preventable.
Maximisation of preventive efforts is of fundamental importance; relying
on only one prevention procedure, like a fluoride‐based method, is
insufficient. Relying solely on reparative philosophy is wrong. As to
dietary approaches, mere prohibition of sugar as the only educational
measure is hypocritical. Maximisation of prevention automatically
includes the use of sugar substitutes. Of these, xylitol, a natural,
physiologic carbohydrate sweetener, has been rigorously tested in
long‐term human clinical trials, and has been found to be safe and
effective. An effective way to use xylitol is as xylitol‐containing
chewing gum, lozenges or chewable tablets. This prevention procedure can
easily be promoted in environments where children or young adults are
reachable, i.e. at schools, universities, garrisons, public health
centres and related institutions. Results from clinical studies suggest
that less than 10 grams of xylitol per day, consumed in about five
chewing episodes, significantly increases protection against dental
caries. This approach, a single‐component modification of diet, can be
used to complete existing prevention methods, both at individual and
community level.
Computer Simulation: Its Use in Planning Material Handling
Systems
Authors: Castino Frank , Watson Lloyd
Published: May 2006

The basic concepts in the application of computer simulation
techniques to materials handling and distribution problems are
introduced in the context of strategic planning and option evaluation.
Case studies are used to illustrate those concepts and the various
techniques involved. The interaction required between client, materials
handling system designer, and systems analyst to maximise the benefits
from the use of sophisticated modelling tools is discussed.
Teaching and Learning in Knowledge Organisations:
Implications for the Preparation of School Administrators
Authors: Mulkeen Thomas A. , Tetenbaum Toby J.
Published: May 2006

A model is presented for the preparation of educational
administrators that is in keeping with the needs and demands of a
changing society. Beginning with a discussion of recruitment and
selection, the structures, curriculum and instructional modes desirable
in a programme that is compatible with the needs of the twenty‐first
century are described. The model emphasises a field‐based programme in
which theory and practice are integrated through a hierarchically
structured problem‐solving approach to learning. Paid internships and
sabbaticals for professional renewal are recommended. Commitment by
universities, schools and individuals entering into and practising the
profession of educational administration is called for.
Equity and Diversity: Challenges for Educational
Administrators in India
Authors: Sapra C.L.
Published: May 2006

An analysis of the equity promotion and diversity preservation
efforts made in India since independence and a critical appraisal of
their impact is presented. It identifies the challenges confronting
educational administrators who have to implement the programmes devised
to keep the equity‐diversity balance that policy requires.
Learning by Doing: Research on the Educational
Administration Practicum
Authors: Daresh John C.
Published: May 2006

The status of the practicum (learning by doing) in educational
administration preparation programmes is discussed. The literature base
for discussion of the issues involved is inadequate; research has been
limited both in the ways the topic has been studied and what has been
found. Possible new directions which research might profitably take are
presented.
Superintendent Turnover and School Board Member Defeat: A
New Perspective and Interpretation
Authors: Weller L. David , Brown Carvin L. , Flynn Kohlan J.
Published: May 2006

The study investigated popular election results regarding the
relationship between the variables of county board member defeat or
re‐election and the reappointment or dismissal of county school
superintendents, in the state of North Carolina, within a one, two,
three or four year time frame. All 100 county school districts were
studied over a 12‐year period of time in which an ex post facto
quasi‐experimental research design was used to determine the
relationship between incumbent board member defeat and superintendent
turnover following six general elections. Results of the study show
there was stability in both superintendent reappointment and incumbent
school board member re‐election. These findings do not support previous
research regarding the dissatisfaction theory in that previous studies
found significant differences between superintendent turnover and
incumbent school board member defeat. This study, unlike others, focused
on county public superintendent turnover and county board member
election results as opposed to city or state superintendent and school
board member elections.
School Superintendents, Crisis Management and Institutional
Organisations Theory
Authors: Ziolkowski George A. , Willower Donald J.
Published: May 2006

Fifty school superintendents were interviewed about incidents of
serious misconduct by school personnel. The superintendents indicated
that they case managed the incidents, acting quickly but mindful of due
process. The incidents dealt mainly with violations of broad community
norms. Comparisons were made with a previous study of school principals.
It was suggested that institutional organisations theory′s blanket
emphasis on ritualistic legitimation, the logic of confidence, and
normative as opposed to technical assessment of schools is too strong.
Determinants and Correlates of Faculty Burn‐out in US
Research Universities
Authors: Neumann Yoram , Finaly‐Neumann Edith
Published: May 2006

The relationships between support variables (work significance,
collegial support and chairperson′s support) and indicators of faculty
burn‐out (emotional exhaustion and feeling of personal accomplishment)
are examined. In addition, the relationships between the syndrome of
faculty burnout and its potential consequences (organisational
commitment and recent research performance) are explored. The study is
conducted using a sample of faculty members from 40 research university
departments, ten each in physics, sociology, electrical engineering, and
education. The major findings are: support indicators are the most
influential determinants of emotional exhaustion in physics and the
least influential in sociology and education; the same support
indicators have the maximal explanatory power with regard to personal
accomplishment in physics, and the minimal explanatory power in
education; emotional exhaustion is related strongly to commitment and
recent published articles in hard sciences, whereas the same
relationships are quite weak for the soft sciences; and personal
accomplishment is positively related to commitment in all fields while
it is related strongly to recent published articles in hard sciences.
The implications of this study are discussed.
Organizational Culture in a Good High School
Authors: Mitchell J. Thomas , Willower Donald J.
Published: May 2006

Observations and interviews were conducted in a high school,
selected because of high student achievement scores, controlled for
socioeconomic status, and a reputation for excellence. An organizational
culture that cut across school groups including students, was found. It
was grounded in academics and school spirit. A set of reinforcing
elements was proposed as the reason for the culture. It included:
administrators, teachers, parents, and a school board committed to
academic study; a community whose main employer was a medical centre and
which was perceived to be education‐oriented; many students who
associated academic success with material success and popularity; and a
school superintendent who acted as a catalyst. If students are to be
part of a school′s organizational culture, reinforcing elements
equivalent to those found are probably crucial. They counteract the
oppositional student and adult subcultures that are so common in
schools.
The Principal as Leader of the Self‐managing School in
Australia
Authors: Caldwell Brian J.
Published: May 2006

Briefly outlines the scope and pace of change in education in
Australia which is extraordinary and, for many, disconcerting if not
dislocating – there is virtually no aspect of the field that has
not been touched by reform over the last decade, whether it be the
processes of policy making among the different levels of government, or
the structures within which public education is administered, or the
roles of leaders such as school principals. Briefly contrasts the
emerging and traditional roles, then offers an outline of the broad
context for education. Details the factors which are influencing change
in education, with a description in each instance of the manner in which
these are affecting the role of the principal. Describes scenarios for
schooling as the nation moves towards the twenty‐first century, with a
further shift towards a market model foreshadowed. Proposes four
dimensions for leadership on the part of the principal.
Ethical Reasoning of Educational Administrators:
Structuring Inquiry around the Problems of Practice
Authors: Kirby Peggy C. , Paradise Louis V. , Protti Russell
Published: May 2006

Sorts by theme cases involving ethical dilemmas and actions taken
in each as described by 23 practising US school administrators in
responses to a questionnaire: the majority involved issues of teacher
competence. The ethical orientation of the administrators was found to
be normally distributed with respect to the five‐level Van Hoose and
Paradise model. Only one administrator demonstrated all six components
of the moral reasoning described by Howe (1986); most lacked the courage
to act on the resolution they preferred. Discusses implications for the
selection and training of school administrators.
Zero Coupon Syndicates and the Timing of Cash Distributions
to Partnership Investors
Authors: Archer Wayne R. , Sa‐Aadu J. , Shilling James D.
Published: May 2006

Examines the practise of using zero coupon first mortgage notes to
raise more capital than is needed to fund a particular real estate
limited partnership. Explains the mechanism, with advantages and
drawbacks. Provides a worked example.
Tendering Procedure and Construction in Europe – The
Works Directive
Authors: Webster Philip
Published: May 2006

Explains the background behind the European Works Directive
71/305/EEC as amended by 89/440/EEC. Provides an outline of some
important features likely to have an affect on tendering procedure
within the European Community. Concludes that case law indicates that
contractors and developers should endeavour to conform to the spirit and
the letter of the law.
Closed‐End German Property Funds
Authors: Gasteyer Thomas
Published: May 2006

Explains how closed‐end German property funds can be described as
partnerships of which the business activities are limited to investing
in one or several properties. Describes the nature of the partnership as
a limited partnership and a civil law partnership. Details the required
documentation, the finance structure and the tax liabilities.
Computer Systems – Training, Understanding and DCF
Authors: Sykes Stephen G.
Published: May 2006

Discusses some problems associated with people using computer
packages who are unwilling or unable to understand how to run the
system, its limitations, the techniques employed and the end results.
Explains a model of discounted cash flow.
Changes in the Financing of Property in France
Authors: Jolly Christopher
Published: May 2006

Concentrates on the ways in which the changes in property market
conditions which are currently affecting primarily the Paris sub‐markets
of the Golden Triangle and La Défense have begun to put pressure
on the traditional methods of financing property in France. Discusses
the current market conditions and ways in which these changing
investment attitudes will inevitably lead French property companies to
adjust both the development phase of projects and also their
refinancing. Concludes that new financing techniques imported both form
the UK and USA may be needed to alleviate some of the problems.
Waterfront Regeneration in Ireland: Public and Private
Sector Partnerships
Authors: Berry J.N. , Deddis W.G. , McGreal W.S.
Published: May 2006

Compares two approaches to waterfront regeneration – the
Custom House Docks scheme in Dublin and the Laganside scheme in Belfast.
Discusses the background to regeneration initiatives as a means of
promoting inner city renewal. Concludes that Custom House Docks has been
able to institute development at a reasonable pace whilst Laganside may
require the status of Enterprise Zone designation.
The Globalisation of Finance Capital and the Changing
Relationships Between Property and Finance – 1
Authors: Pugh Cedric
Published: May 2006

Reviews the revolution in property finance, with evaluations and
commentaries on the history of change, the modern ways of financing
property and the consequences in the redistribution of risk and
opportunity. Considers the changing relationships between property and
finance and their effect on the distribution of risks and opportunities.
Concludes that the globilization of finance capital and the development
of innovative financial instruments in the 1980s have together changed
the incidence of risk and return in the financing of property.
Foreign Currency Loans – A Credible Borrowing
Alternative?
Authors: Gubbins Nico
Published: May 2006

Notes that foreign currency loans have become increasingly popular
due to the UK′s entrance to the Exchange Rate Mechanism and an increase
in clients′ awareness of financial markets. Suggests that risks are
still attached to foreign currency loans and questions whether they can
now be considered a viable alternative. Concludes that, if one can
afford to take the risk, the long‐term gains in terms of interest rate
savings and potential debt reduction can be substantial.
An Investment of Lessor Interest
Authors: Miles Peter
Published: May 2006

Outlines a form of investment, similar to an institutional sale and
leaseback agreement, but which escalates the rent payable for up to 35
years and can provide the tenant with appreciation benefits. Discusses
the Occupational Tenancy and provides examples of option premiums.
Concludes that each case requires an individual auditor′s comment as the
rules and interpretations are complex.
DIRECTIONAL GROWTH BY EUROPEAN RETAILERS
Authors: Robinson T.M. , Clarke‐Hill C.M.
Published: May 2006

The strategic growth directions, taken by a sample of 27 major
European retailers selected across the main EC states, are explored. A
descriptive model is developed to assess such directional growth and the
paths taken by the sample companies within the framework of the model
are analysed. The findings indicate that similar patterns of development
have occurred within certain sectors across national boundaries. The
majority of trading activity exists within the national boundaries of
the sample companies. Furthermore, the cross‐border activity that exists
tends to be small in scale relative to the size of the company, and in
close geographic and marketing proximity to the country of domicile and
the core business.
SHOPPING CENTRE DEVELOPMENT IN NORTHERN IRELAND: A
BORDERLINE CASE
Authors: Brown Stephen
Published: May 2006

The Buttercrane Centre, Newry, is one of the most recent and most
sophisticated additions to Northern Ireland′s burgeoning retailing
scene. As a child of the short lived cross‐border shopping boom of the
mid‐1980s, the centre opened to considerable concern about its likely
impact on the nearby town centre. The findings of two customer survey
exercises, however, suggest that, far from suffering, the town centre
has benefited substantially from the opening of this highly attractive
and heavily promoted shopping complex.
HOW IMPORTANT IS CULTURE?
Authors: Sherwood Dennis
Published: May 2006

Is corporate culture a key to commercial success? The results of a
survey, carried out in 1989, in which senior executives of the largest
retailers in the UK describe the key characteristics of their corporate
cultures, and how their cultures are maintained and evolve, are
outlined. They also rank “corporate culture” alongside 14
other key factors which strongly influence corporate strategy or
competitive advantage. Three clusters emerge: those who rank
people‐related values highly, those who are predominantly market‐led,
and those who value “hard” factors such as financial
control.
PHYSICAL DISTRIBUTION IN INTERNATIONAL RETAILING
Authors: Pellew Martyn
Published: May 2006

The internationalisation of retailing has drawn considerable
attention in recent years. Nevertheless, little has been written about
the impact of such strategies on physical distribution. The distribution
strategies of some of the leading international retailers are focused on
and how the distribution industry will react to changes in the
international environment is discussed.
MANAGING SHOPPING CENTRE RETAILER MIX: SOME CONSIDERATIONS
FOR RETAILERS
Authors: Peters John
Published: May 2006

The management of the mix of retailers in a shopping centre is
generally regarded as vital to the success of the centre. This article
suggests that retailers themselves have the responsibility to manage the
mix. It suggests a number of ways in which the symbiotic relationships
between a shopping centre and the retailers within it can be made a
success. It also examines the impact on the management of retailer mix
of the 1988 Landlord and Tenant Act amendments.
OPERATIONAL ASPECTS OF RETAIL FRANCHISES
Authors: Baron Steve , Schmidt Ruth A.
Published: May 2006

Through an exploratory study, based on interviews with retail
franchisees and franchisers belonging to the British Franchise
Association, the operational nature of the relationship between
franchisee and franchiser is explored. The views of franchisees and
franchisers on the nature and level of their respective responsibilities
throughout the relationship are sought, and differences in perceptions
are pinpointed. The early findings suggest that, whilst apparently a
franchise is an opportunity for a new entrant with no previous business
experience, the whole process from vetting and training, through to
trading, is in fact based on the assumption that the entrant is familiar
with general business practice.
THE BIGGER THEY ARE, THE HARDER THEY FALL...
Authors: Burt Steven
Published: May 2006

The pursuit of market share and corporate growth in a competitive
retail environment is expensive. The pressures of maintaining growth may
place a considerable strain upon both human and financial resources, and
former stars may fall from grace almost overnight. The rise and fall of
Coop AG, Germany′s largest consumer co‐operative, are examined. In
January 1988 Coop AG was the fourth largest retailer in Germany, with
group annual sales of around £4 billion. In January 1991 the Coop
AG no longer exists – following a financial scandal which
culminated in the break‐up and takeover of the group by various
competitors.
THE GROCERY SHOPPER – IS HE DIFFERENT?
Authors: Davies Gary , Bell Jonathan
Published: May 2006

As more men adopt the role of grocery shopper, the potential grows
for positioning a supermarket chain against the male shopper. Anecdotal
evidence and previous research suggested differences between male and
female shoppers over the time taken to shop. A study is presented where
male and female shoppers were timed while shopping in a branch of
Safeway. When just the time taken to shop is considered, the male sample
spent significantly less time than the female sample. But, when the rate
of shopping, expressed in expenditure per minute or items per minute was
compared, women seemed to shop faster than men. However, when the
samples were matched for the total volume of shopping purchased, no
significant difference could be found between the sexes. It could be
argued from the survey and previous work that men are less involved in
the shopping process. Some ideas are presented to enable retailers to
target the male shopper.
Rural Transport – Theory into Practice
Authors: Cheesman L.P.
Published: May 2006

A successful project in Malawi designed to provide
a viable method of short‐haul transport, in rural
areas with poor infrastructure, for agricultural
produce is described. The tractor plus two trailers
unit that was developed was not only efficient but
cost effective compared to other systems. It was
also assembled and therefore could be maintained
by skilled workers locally. The problems of raising
capital for projects of this kind are discussed.
Decision‐making Support for Strategic Purchasing
Authors: Cohn Ruth , Tayi Giri Kumar
Published: May 2006

With the globalisation of markets, firms are
continuously searching for ways to remain
competitive. In such an environment the
purchasing and management of raw materials,
supplies, parts, etc., has emerged as a critical area
for a firm to achieve its strategic goals. Purchasing
controls typically one‐quarter to one‐third of the
expenses incurred by the firm in manufacturing
its products. The objective of the article is to
identify and illustrate how different computer‐based
decision support tools/techniques could be
applied to various purchasing decisions. Through
in‐depth applications the potential improvements
in managerial effectiveness, increased user
involvement, and ease in problem solving are
highlighted.
Dedicated Contract Distribution: An Assessment of the UK Marketplace
Authors: Cooper James , Johnstone Malcolm
Published: May 2006

The article reports the findings of research carried
out by the authors into dedicated contract
distribution (DCD), a service which is “tailor‐made”
to the requirements of users. Major
characteristics of the DCD marketplace in the UK
are identified and future prospects for growth are
commented on, particularly outside the UK. As
freight deregulation is recognised as a prerequisite
for the development of specialist services such
as DCD, development potential seems particularly
promising in both the US and parts of mainland
Europe.
IDV Inventory – A Question of Control
Authors: Atkins Paul
Published: May 2006

The article reviews the practical problems of
applying inventory control techniques with
reference to IDV, a company in the beers, wines
and spirits industry. Recommendations are made
for improving control of inventory through the
stock administration department.
Modelling the Effects of Traffic Congestion on JIT
Authors: Rao Kant , Grenoble William L.
Published: May 2006

Increasing traffic congestion in many parts of the world threatens
to disrupt the reliable transport performance required for effective
implementation of just‐in‐time logistics. An analytical framework for
examining the effects of congestion on logistics performance is
presented and mitigating options are suggested. The increasing problem
of congestion is discussed and a general model is proposed with which
its effects on time‐sensitive logistics networks might be analysed.
Utilising this model and supporting data from a Chicago‐area transport
study, a numerical example calculating the “costs of
congestion” for one component is developed and presented. Finally,
some extensions of the base framework are proposed and discussed. These
include using joint probability theory to examine the effects of
multiple components and multiple suppliers and examining the expected
benefits of some mitigating actions such as pooled deliveries and
consolidation.
Private Warehouse Cost Dynamics
Authors: Pooley John M.
Published: May 2006

The results of an empirical study which has investigated the cost
dynamics of a group of private warehouses is presented. Specifically the
article tests the applicability of using a learning curve to plan and
evaluate a private warehouse′s average labour cost per case performance.
To test the applicability of using a learning curve in this industry,
the study has analysed the empirical performance of a small sample of
private warehouses over a five‐year period. A regression model of the
private warehouse′s average labour cost per case performance shows that
they do follow the standard log‐linear learning curve relationship
between unit cost and cumulative units. The regression model shows that
the private warehouses have a learning rate of 87 per cent. An example
application shows that including the study′s results in a
private‐versus‐public warehouse selection problem, using a discounted
cash‐flow analysis, increases the private ware‐house′s internal rate of
return by approximately 10 per cent.
Managing culture change
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin
Published: May 2006

Reports on a survey, carried out by the British Institute of Management, which shows that to survive, organisations have to be more responsive to employee and customer needs. Asserts the successful management of relationships is critical to business success. Discusses management and customer issues. Records the findings of the BIM survey. Concludes that major corporations operate in an unstable world making them more vulnerable to competition and challenges beyond their control. Understanding these changes requires an awareness of underlying concerns and values. Asserts there is no single path to quality but common to all winning companies is that they view continuous improvement as never‐ending. The focus should be upon the customer throughout.
Attitudes and behaviour
Authors: Seddon John
Published: May 2006

Asserts that for quality improvement to have a lasting effect in an organisation, employees need to learn how to adapt themselves to the culture change and understand why it is necessary. Centres on the argument that for any change of consequence there is a need to look to unreasonable people who persist in trying to adapt the world to themselves. Discusses the implications of culture change. Outlines the methods to provide a direct and practical means of getting people to take a different perspective on themselves, and thus be more prepared to take on and use relevant quality education.
Inside quality service
Authors: Bailey D.
Published: May 2006

Claims that in order to improve quality service, front‐line staff and management need to recognize the importance of good customer care, for both internal and external customers. Defines quality service and gives examples of how and where to implement it, as well as illustrating both individual and management contributions.
In search of new ′tools′
Authors: Collier D.
Published: May 2006

Describes the characteristics and objectives of the service quality process map (SQPM) and its applications for the customer service function of a large credit card processing centre. Compares the SQPM to a visual road map of how excellent service is created and delivered through the eyes of the customer. Considers that SQPMs can be used as a tool to build management decision support systems.
Improving service delivery
Authors: Armistead Colin , Clark G.
Published: May 2006

Outlines a workshop approach to evaluating service delivery in order to improve customer service, as well as developing a service strategy and designing delivery systems consistent with this strategy. Describes the tools used in the workshop ‐ particularly the ′Service Triangle′. Sums up the benefits of such a workshop in evaluating service delivery.
Flying with quality
Authors: Malatino R. , Zeiher J. , Armstrong W.
Published: May 2006

Reviews TQM implementation by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) since the early 1980s. Outlines the benefits, to date, of TQM efforts as well as lessons learnt from applying for, and winning, the Presidential Award for Quality and Productivity Improvement. Outlines the challenges facing NAVAIR′s leadership ‐ cuts in defence spending and a reduced force level ‐ and concludes that TQM is the key to meeting these challenges.
Facilitator skills
Authors: Foster M. , Dewhirst R.
Published: May 2006

Explores the difficulties many managers have in performing the facilitator role, and in particular, providing assistance to Quality Improvement Teams (QITs). Reports on the experiences of Pilkington Insulation Ltd and their TQ Facilitator Development Programme which demonstrates that training and interventionist roles are not necessarily complementary. States that limits need to be clearly understood and that training is essential.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMES (EAPs) AND WORKING WOMEN
Authors: Masi Dale , Stanton Kelly
Published: May 2006

Employee Assistance Programmes are
explained and their potential in meeting the
concerns of female employees is described in
the framework of the issues confronting
working women in the US. Employee
Assistance Programmes and women in the
workforce are both relatively recent
occurrences. Women began entering the
workforce en masse at the turn of the
century. Employee Assistance Programmes
began in the United States in the early 1940s,
but have only developed and been adopted in
the 1970s and 1980s. The ways in which they
offer a special source of support and help to
women in the workforce are explored.
Although some of the content may not be
relevant to women in Great Britain, in the
authors′ opinions the readers will probably
see more similarities than differences since a
woman′s role is, for the most part, universal.
Estimating US Soybean Exports: A Simultaneous Supply/Demand Approach
Authors: Sarwar Ghulam , Anderson Dale G.
Published: May 2006

A simultaneous equation model is used to estimate export demand and
supply functions for US soybeans. Price, income, exchange rate and other
effects on exports to four world regions are estimated. Inclusion of
export supply relationships have very significant implications for
estimated price‐, income‐, and exchange‐rate elasticities of export
demand. Results fail to support the usual empirical assumption of
infinite supply price elasticity for soybeans.
Testing for Balance of Payment Constraints: The Case of the Oil Exporters
Authors: Samiei S.H.
Published: May 2006

A switching regression model is employed to test for the presence
of financial constraints in the determination of oil exporters′ imports
from industrial countries. The main assumption of the model is the
exogenous determination of this bloc′s terms of trade. The analysis uses
both discrete and smooth‐switching techniques for estimating
disequilibrium models. The results on the whole indicate the importance
of financial constraints in trade. Further support for the framework is
provided by the fact that separate estimations for the high and low
absorbers appear to suggest that revenue from trade has been of greater
importance for the former category.
Industry Characteristics and Scale Economies as Sources of
Intra‐industry Trade
Authors: Farrell Michael J.
Published: May 2006

1982 US intra‐industry trade (IIT) for 308 four‐digit manufacturing
products is related to industry characteristics in a cross‐section
regression study of the sources of two‐way trade. Results indicate the
empirical relevance of models which present IIT as the result of
international external economies in the production of differentiated
producers goods. IIT as a means of satisfying consumers′ tastes for
variety does not seem to be important, but oligopoly models of two‐way
trade in consumer goods are supported owing to the association with
concentration ratios. In contrast to recent studies which concluded that
scale economies inhibit IIT in manufactured products, an examination of
four different proxies for internal economies reveals that neither IIT
nor inter‐industry trade based on comparative advantage is influenced
significantly by scale effects, whether measured by size of
establishment or by the productivity advantages of large plants.
Cost Structure of the Indian Cement Industry
Authors: Jha Raghbendra , Murty M.N. , Paul Satya , Sahni Balbir S.
Published: May 2006

Analyses the structure of costs in the cement, lime and plaster
industry of India. Using aggregative data for the period 1960‐61 to
1982‐83 a generalised translog cost function is estimated. It is
discovered that (1) this industry has been characterised, by and large,
by allocative efficiency; (2) production is characterised by increasing
returns to scale; (3) technical progress has been biased against the use
of capital; and (4) there exist considerable opportunities for
substitution between factors of production. Several policy conclusions
of the analysis are also examined.
Developing Training within the Enterprise
Authors: Greig F.W.
Published: May 2006

The development of training in industry, commerce and the public
sector during the last 25 years is discussed, with reference to the role
of training officers, external services available to organisations, and
the involvement of line managers in training their subordinates.
Constraints on training are addressed and key issues are detailed,
including the need for individually designed corporate training
policies, the role of external training agencies, the recruitment of
qualified staff and the measurement of training performance. Finally, an
itemised agenda is recommended for adoption by developing countries and
bilateral and international funding agencies to improve organisational
training and project success rates.