bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating communities of practice: scoping purposeful design
Authors: Iaquinto Ben , Ison Ray , Faggian Robert
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to scope the nature and form of practices, understandings and institutional arrangements that might contribute to the successful “design” and continuity of Communities of Practice (CoP) in a state government department in Australia. The study aims to provide research evidence to support the design and establishment of a CoP based on systems thinking within this department.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 13 semi‐structured interviews were undertaken involving 14 informants. The interviewer also attended one CoP meeting. An emergent approach to research design was adopted with data analysis guided by previous studies on CoPs.

Findings

The research revealed the existence of six CoPs that were purposefully created internally by the department. Six “design” and practice considerations were suggested for practitioners aiming to create and sustain successful CoPs.

Research limitations/implications

Interview material was the only source of primary data and it was gathered from one organisation only – a state government department in Australia. Findings indicate that the role of the CoP coordinator is still not fully understood.

Practical implications

The results from this study can be used in re‐designing a systems thinking CoP to support systems thinking within the department. The study also revealed that purposefully designing CoPs is possible and useful for practitioners aiming to collaborate and share expertise across disciplinary and divisional boundaries.

Originality/value

This study provides some guidance for the purposeful design of CoPs, which has been under‐examined in the literature.
Participation in intra‐firm communities of practice: a case study from the automotive industry
Authors: Wolf Patricia , Späth Sebastian , Haefliger Stefan
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Communities of practice (CoPs) have been found to support knowledge creation by enabling knowledge sharing among experts in firms. However, some perform better than others. This paper seeks to explore what incentivizes employees to share knowledge in intra‐firm CoPs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a longitudinal case study in a large automotive company that introduced 82 cross‐functional CoPs into its engineering department. Using extensive qualitative data, two sets of communities: best and worst performing were analyzed.

Findings

It was found that perceived benefits and the employees' willingness to invest individual efforts into community work are stronger in better performing communities. Members of the better performing CoPs drew most benefits from participating in organizational decision processes, as they were able to influence the agenda and create relevant standards. The patterns observed relate to the efforts, benefits, and barriers of community work.

Research limitations/implications

The single case study design limits the generalizability of the results beyond the company studied. Furthermore, some of the data employed were perceptional and relied partly on self‐reporting of the community members.

Practical implications

The paper argues that management support for CoPs should aim at influencing the individual cost‐benefit calculus of community members. Respecting and implementing results from the communities' work is likely to provide the very basis for innovations to emerge at all.

Originality/value

Other than extant studies on CoP performance that focus on company benefits from deploying CoPs, this paper offers a new perspective by exploring the benefits and incentives available to community members.
Improving intranet knowledge transfer through resident engineers
Authors: Mateo Ricardo , Tanco Martín , Santos Javier
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This research paper aims to explore how intranet mechanisms for knowledge transfer in a multinational automotive company can be improved with the inclusion of a human interface, specifically a resident engineer. A resident engineer is an assembly line employee who spends the majority of their time in the Advanced Engineering Center, which aims to improve knowledge transfer through face‐to‐face interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A multinational automotive company was selected for the study. Six years of data containing all product modifications were analyzed.

Findings

The paper concludes that electronic knowledge transfer can be significantly improved when resident engineers physically interact with the Advanced Engineering Center. Intranet knowledge transfer alone cannot overcome the considerable handicap involved in knowledge assimilation.

Practical implications

For companies with Advanced Engineering Centers located far from assembly‐line plants, the creation of specific human mechanisms to explain the knowledge generated and to reduce approval time is indispensable.

Originality/value

This research paper features a complete case study from a multinational automotive company with more than 800 analyzed modifications.
Knowledge‐sharing enablers and barriers in pharmaceutical research and development
Authors: Lilleoere Anne‐Mette , Holme Hansen Ebba
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Because selling innovative products is crucial to its livelihood, the pharmaceutical industry has a fundamental need to share knowledge to stimulate the process of knowledge creation. This study seeks to explore knowledge‐sharing enablers and barriers in pharmaceutical R&D.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was carried out in a pharmaceutical company in Denmark. R&D professionals were asked to identify organizational enablers and barriers to knowledge sharing. Their accounts were processed as text during workshops. Data were condensed thematically. The analysis was combined with the conceptualization of tacit and explicit knowledge as proposed by Nonaka and Takeuchi.

Findings

The research shows that R&D professionals have different views and practices regarding engaging in knowledge sharing. This reveals that knowledge sharing is multi‐faceted and that one standard for R&D professionals does not exist. The enablers identified recognized the use of tacit knowledge. The existence of enablers and barriers with oppositional influence on knowledge‐sharing practices is evident. Furthermore, synergy is identified in the knowledge‐sharing enablers provided that the settings fostering personal closeness to colleagues are stimulated. Physical proximity to colleagues therefore has obvious influence on knowledge‐sharing practices.

Research limitations/implications

This study was based on a single case study. The extent to which the findings can be generalized to other industries is unknown.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for R&D managers who must be aware of these professional diversities in order to enhance knowledge‐sharing practices. Attention should also be given to the synergies hidden in knowledge‐sharing enablers.

Originality/value

Focused implementation of enablers will increase knowledge‐sharing practices and minimize barriers.
An innovation perspective of knowledge management in a multinational subsidiary
Authors: Amalia Mirta , Nugroho Yanuar
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the implementation of knowledge management in a telecommunication multinational subsidiary and to investigate factors that affect the performance as well as the impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

Innovation perspective informs the identification of the ways in which KM strategies are devised and put into action. Using in‐depth interviews and direct observation, the paper maps some problems associated with the strategy and implementation of KM.

Findings

The case shows that the lack of organisation‐wide integrated systems, which is typical across different organisations, does contribute to this problem. However, the main predicament lies with the fact that a KM‐enabling scheme is never explicitly prioritised in the organisation's information systems strategy.

Practical implications

KM implementation should take into account both technological innovation and organisational innovation. Neglecting one aspect poses apparent danger that the implementation is unlikely to bring about benefit to the organisation.

Originality/value

This paper presents the case of a multinational company subsidiary in a developing economy, i.e. Indonesia. It is expected that this case will help substantiate an instance of KM implementation in an emerging economy and latecomer development, which might impact the operation and working of a multinational subsidiary.
Leveraging socio‐culturally situated tacit knowledge
Authors: Cordeiro‐Nilsson Cheryl Marie , Hawamdeh Suliman
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate how a more lateral style of working, such as the Swedish model of management that reflects a more linear manner of managing organizational knowledge, is carried over and transferred to Swedish managed organizations in Singapore.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 33 top‐level managers (23 Scandinavians and ten Asians) who worked in Swedish managed organizations in Singapore were interviewed for this study. It was necessary that the respondents were in top‐level management positions, the assumption being that it was their decisions and actions that steered the organization to its goals. The respondents were selected randomly and came from a variety of industry backgrounds.

Findings

The Swedish style of handling information and knowledge within the organization has proven more open, flexible and accessible than Singaporeans might initially expect or understand. This cultural difference of who gains access to timely information and who should use that information to make decisions, for example, first met with a lack of understanding and even inaction on the part of the Singaporeans and active measures are needed such as re‐structuring the organization or a constant communicative strategy by the Swedes to first make a change in direction in organization behaviour. This means that the organizations in this study, in keeping a high standard of employee satisfaction, get to retain, harvest and profit from their organization's knowledge base while enjoying a low turnover rate in human capital.

Originality/value

This study aims to take a complementary approach of exploring the Swedish management style via discourse analysis, with the transcribed long interview data sorted with the coding procedures adapted from grounded theory.
An exploratory examination of knowledge‐ sharing behaviors: solicited and voluntary
Authors: Teng James T.C. , Song Seokwoo
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Knowledge sharing (KS) has been a central concern in knowledge management (KM) practice and research. However, KS has remained largely a simplistic concept. This study aims to differentiate between solicited KS and voluntary KS and also to attempt to examine the role of both types of KS in relation to task, culture, technology and KM processes at the work unit level.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey method was used. The questionnaire was issued to MBA students enrolled in a major southern university's cohort‐based program for working professionals, and a total of 149 usable responses were collected.

Findings

It was found that task routineness and open communication facilitate only solicited sharing behaviors, while perception of solidarity is significantly related to voluntary sharing behaviors. In addition, knowledge tools and tacit‐oriented KM processes were found to play a significant role in both voluntary and solicited KS.

Research limitations/implications

Exploratory analysis points to differentiated influence of these environmental conditions on the two KS types, suggesting further implications for research and practice. With the realization that voluntary sharing is a more proactive form of KS, KM practitioners may find it beneficial to monitor different forms of KS.

Originality/value

While KS has been the focus of intensive research in recent years, the concept itself has remained surprisingly simplistic among researchers. This study differentiates between two forms of KS: solicited KS and voluntary KS.
Antecedents of the stage‐based knowledge management evolution
Authors: Lin Hsiu‐Fen
Published: February 2011

Purpose

To enhance one's understanding of the evolution of knowledge management (KM), this study seeks to develop a research model to examine the impact of individual (knowledge self‐efficacy, openness in communication, reciprocal benefits), organizational (top management support, organizational rewards, and sharing culture), and information technology contexts (KM system infrastructure and KM system quality) on the KM evolution along three stages (KM initiation, implementation, and institutionalization).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from 241 managers (in charge of KM practices in their companies) in large Taiwanese firms were collected and used to test the research model using the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach.

Findings

The results reveal that the attributes for individual‐organizational‐technological contexts have different impacts on three stages of KM evolution. In particular, knowledge self‐efficacy, top management support, and KM system quality have positive effects on all three KM evolution stages.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should include structured interviews and case studies of managers dealing with ongoing or recently completed KM planning projects to help understand the practical usefulness of the research model.

Practical implications

Creating an organizational climate characterized by top management support and knowledge‐sharing culture is likely to assist both management and employees in socializing and interacting with one another, thus driving KM effectiveness. Managers should strive to enable employees to propose ideas for new opportunities and foster a positive social interaction culture for implementing KM initiatives.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study aims to provide a research model that is capable of understanding the antecedents of the stage‐based KM evolution. From a managerial perspective, the findings of this study provide valuable guidelines to policy‐makers and practitioners in implementing KM and accelerating KM evolution.
Knowledge management and organizational performance: a decomposed view
Authors: Mills Annette M. , Smith Trevor A.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of specific knowledge management resources (i.e. knowledge management enablers and processes) on organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses survey data from 189 managers and structural equation modeling to assess the links between specific knowledge management resources and organizational performance.

Findings

The results show that some knowledge resources (e.g. organizational structure, knowledge application) are directly related to organizational performance, while others (e.g. technology, knowledge conversion), though important preconditions for knowledge management, are not directly related to organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications

The survey findings were based on a single dataset, so the same observations may not apply to other settings. The survey also did not provide in‐depth insight into the key capabilities of individual firms and the circumstances under which some resources are directly related to organizational performance.

Practical implications

The study provides evidence linking particular knowledge resources to organizational performance. Such insights can help firms better target their investments and enhance the success of their knowledge management initiatives.

Originality/value

Prior research often utilizes composite measures when examining the knowledge management‐organizational performance link. This bundling of the dimensions of knowledge management allows managers and researchers to focus on main effects but leaves little room for understanding how particular resources relate to organizational performance. This study addresses this gap by assessing the links between specific knowledge management resources and organizational performance. The results show that some resources are directly related to organizational performance, while others are not.
Foresight on the future of public research metrology in Europe
Authors: Barker Katharine E. , Cox Deborah , Sveinsdottir Thordis
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to describe and evaluate the use of a five‐step foresight process and the application of scenario methods to grasp the range of future alternatives that might confront researchers and research managers in European metrology research institutes. The sector is to be examined as a part of a larger study that aims to reflect on the potential future roles for the public research institutes, in several sectors (the other sectors in the study included civil space, plant science, geosurveys, and marine), towards the development of the European Research Area (ERA).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper illustrates how scenario methods were used to, first, serve as a basis for policy recommendations for the field of European metrology research institutes and, second, help experts and stakeholders to network and actively discuss a shared vision of the future of the field.

Findings

This case demonstrates the need for proactive strategic management which goes well beyond the institutional boundary, into national policy and European decision making. As other areas of European research begin to think about the importance of European cooperation, lessons can be drawn from the experience of this particular sector. The process of looking forward took on board the political context and allowed participants and the researchers to think beyond these boundaries.

Research limitations/implications

Although this is a pioneering study, there is a danger that some inputs may not have been captured. The results build on the input of a limited number of experts only and on the literature available in the public domain. There were few participants discussing the future of a vast field of research and this may mean that important input has not been captured. Time limitations in the workshops necessarily limit the scope for experts and policy makers to engage with the concepts. Follow‐up activities based on the research outputs are required for the findings to go forward.

Practical implications

Bringing together different stakeholders for shaping a shared vision through scenario workshops led to rich interactions and creative thinking. The workshops created a space for experts to consider policy options for reforming and making better use of the institutes in building the ERA.

Originality/value

Using scenario workshops for foresight research results as an opportunity for stakeholders to visualise different futures for metrology research within Europe. The public research institute sector tends to be more generally under‐studied as a component of modern innovation systems. We evaluate and show that the foresight process is an appropriate methodology to look at what is inherently a political process at the implementation level.
Technology and our epistemic situation: what ought our priorities to be?
Authors: Verdoux Philippe
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to argue that there are two distinct problems of ignorance: a problem of size and a problem of type. Both are more pressing today than ever before, given the extraordinary expansion of collective human knowledge, and both pertain to epistemic limitations intrinsic to evolved cognitive systems. After delineating these problems in detail, one possible way of overcoming “relative” and “absolute” ignorance about the universe – enhancement technologies – is to be examined. The paper then aims to argue that, given one's epistemic situation, resources currently being spent on normal research would be far better spent on developing cognition‐enhancing technologies – technologies that promise to help solve the size and type problems previously sketched.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies two important limitations on human knowledge, one deriving from the size or complexity of certain problems and the other from one's inability to access specific concepts necessary to understand them. It suggests that cognitive enhancements offer the best chance at overcoming these two limitations.

Findings

There are both strong practical and moral reasons for diverting more resources into the development of cognitive enhancement technologies.

Originality/value

No author has yet elaborated on the distinction, which is taken to be important, between the problems of “size” and “type.” Furthermore, no author has yet explored how cognitive enhancements may address the problem that Colin McGinn calls “cognitive closure” (the problem of type). Thus, cognitive enhancements may offer the only possibility of solving conundrums like conscious experience and free will.
Managerial foresight: measurement scale and estimation
Authors: Amsteus Martin
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to develop and assess an instrument measuring managerial foresight.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the construction and estimation of the instrument through a seven‐step process. A total of 57 preliminary Likert items were developed based on an extant review and synthesis of definitions of foresight. The items were assessed through interviews and pre‐testing. A preliminary instrument was administered to a selection of managers. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were employed to assess sub‐scales and model fit. The instrument was evaluated in terms of reliability and validity.

Findings

The study demonstrates a valid and reliable 12 Likert item scale for measuring managerial foresight.

Research limitations/implications

Managerial foresight can now be assessed and tested for association with, for example, managerial or organizational performance variables.

Practical implications

Managers can now be assessed and compared in terms of foresight.

Originality/value

In developing and estimating an instrument for measuring managerial foresight, the paper advances foresight into a quantitatively measurable concept.
Micro‐businesses need support: survival precedes sustainability
Authors: Helen Samujh R.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish the role of micro‐businesses in providing a sustainable business and community environment, and to share the perceptions of micro‐business operators about the support they need to survive and be successful.

Design/methodology/approach

An examination of literature regarding survival and available support for small businesses is followed by results from a New Zealand‐based empirical study of micro‐business operators.

Findings

Micro‐businesses are the dominant form of business organisation and have an important role in maintaining a stable and sustainable global environment. Although such businesses owners tend not to have a formal education in business or engage with external support agencies, they need support from community‐based networks. These networks could reduce the sense of isolation, whilst at the same time providing an opportunity for sharing experiences, in particular about problems encountered.

Research limitations/implications

Implications for other jurisdictions may be limited as micro‐business operators in New Zealand are relatively highly educated and the sample numbers are small (19 in‐depth interviews and 91 questionnaire respondents).

Practical implications

There is a need for psychological support for micro‐business operators. Actions taken to increase their probability of survival and success are likely to enhance their interest in other aspects of the environment.

Originality/value

This paper helps to fill a gap in the small business literature on the behaviour and perceptions of micro‐business operators. The paper presents original research on the psychological aspects that impinge on the business activities through surveys of micro‐business operators.
Firm value and ownership structure in the Spanish capital market
Authors: García‐Meca Emma , Pedro Sánchez‐Ballesta Juan
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects on Tobin's Q of various dimensions of the Spanish ownership structure likely to represent conflicting interests: ownership concentration, insider ownership and bank ownership.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of firms is drawn from the population of Spanish non‐financial firms listed on the Madrid Stock Exchange during 1999‐2002. This paper uses data that have both cross‐sectional and time variation, which allows us to control for unobservable firm heterogeneity and obtain consistent estimates of the coefficients.

Findings

Contrary to most previous evidence, the results show that the main ownership structure mechanism that affects firm value is ownership concentration. The findings suggest that ownership concentration appears to influence firm value favourably, but at high levels a detrimental effect causes market valuation to be negatively affected by high levels of large shareholder ownership. These findings, which are different from the linear or non‐significant relationships found in other countries, can be explained by the differences in corporate governance systems.

Practical implications

The evidence indicates that controlling owners tend to misuse their dominant position at high levels of concentration and to make decisions that destroy market value. The findings also highlight the necessity of alternative corporate governance mechanisms that lead Spanish firms to lower their agency costs and to maximise their market value when blockholders' and minority shareholders' interests do not converge.

Originality/value

The study builds on prior research in several ways. First, the paper offers new insights into the relationship between corporate governance and economic performance by using data from Spanish listed firms. Second, the study focuses on three dimensions: ownership concentration, insider ownership, and bank ownership, which allow one to get a more accurate picture of the ownership structure‐firm value relation. Finally, the study controls for unobservable firm effects by applying the econometrics of panel data.
Corporate governance, restricted stock awards, and IRC Section 83(b) election
Authors: Dorata Nina , Petra Steven
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This study sets out to examine whether CEOs who hold the dual position of chairperson of the board exert increased influence over the board, resulting in compensation contracts more favorable to the CEO than to the firm.

Design/methodology/approach

Correlation analysis is used to test the association between the dependent variable and the independent variables. Logistic regression is used to predict the probability of permitting Section 83(b) election in the context of CEO duality, CEO tenure, tax‐paying status and size of the firm.

Findings

The results show that the presence of CEO duality does not influence the likelihood of permitting a Section 83(b) election. However, the tenure of the CEO significantly increases the likelihood of permitting a Section 83(b) election.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited in the sense that it only examines the year 2004 and the results may be unique to that year. An extension of this study to include additional years of observations is warranted.

Practical implications

Shareholder concerns about CEO duality appear to be unfounded. However, shareholders may consider limiting CEO tenure to lessen the likelihood of CEOs acting in their own best interest at the expense of the firm.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by finding that attributes of the CEO may influence the form of equity compensation that is awarded to the CEO. These attributes may serve the self‐interest of the CEO and not enhance firm value to the shareholder.
The good company
Authors: O'Boyle Edward J. , Solari Stefano , Demetrio Marangoni Gian
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the argument that in principle any company can become a good company by adopting certain characteristics which define the good in enterprise affairs and affirm and reinforce everyone with a stake in the company – managers, workers, suppliers, customers, and communities where it operates – in addition to its owners.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify the characteristics of the good company the paper turns to Catholic social teaching, with its traditional emphasis on the importance of practising virtue in worldly affairs. In this regard, the paper relies heavily on the writings and public statements of Pope John Paul II, who addressed these matters with great clarity and insight.

Findings

In its research the paper finds eight characteristics by which the good company can be identified and which, if embraced by the leadership of a willing and committed enterprise, can help to transform it into a good company. Each of the eight is addressed in some detail.

Originality/value

The paper examines a vast body of writings that, according to Catholic social teaching, identify the good in enterprise affairs. One of the eight characteristics, personalist capital, advances the proposal that the good company routinely maximizes virtue among its stakeholders and thereby enhances its own profitability because the virtuous person is the more effective economic agent.
New perspective for the management of M&A process: a merger case of a Japanese pharmaceutical company
Authors: Shibayama Sotaro , Tanikawa Kunihiro , Kimura Hiromichi
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a new perspective for effective management of the merger and acquisition (M&A) process by making use of a case study of a merger in the Japanese pharmaceutical industry. As corporate governance and culture are notably employee‐oriented in Japanese firms, the paper seeks to explore whether M&As in the industry may follow different paths from those in Western companies and lead to competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the case of a merger of a Japanese pharmaceutical company, Astellas Pharma, which was formed as a result of one of the largest M&As in Japanese M&A history. The case is analyzed in line with previous theories on M&A process management.

Findings

The case was characterized by a strong momentum created by a core merger team consisting of a few members of management and workforce representatives, and the merger process was facilitated by both top‐down leadership and ground‐level support from the workforce. While broad engagement and non‐rapid rationalization of the workforce can slow the execution of the merger process and delay efficiency savings, it can also consistently drive the merger process and place the merged firm on a solid foundation with strong commitment from all levels.

Originality/value

This study suggests a new mode of the M&A process by focusing on a particular merger case of a Japanese pharmaceutical company. The mechanisms observed in the case should be applied with appropriate modifications to the M&As of Western companies.
The Equator Principles: a promise in progress?
Authors: Schepers Donald H.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the legitimacy of the Equator Principles as a form of private governance of the investment banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The project finance industry is first described, followed by a consideration of the theories of private governance and legitimacy. The governance of project finance by the Equator Principles is then examined against the backdrop of private governance and legitimacy theory. Cases regarding project finance and the Equator Principles are discussed.

Findings

The moral legitimacy of the governance of the Equator Principles is highly questionable, a serious issue for private governance schemes. There are large gaps in the governance structure, and the processes and content of much of the Principles are left to each bank, with little mandated transparency or accountability, particularly at the level of individual deals.

Practical implications

The Equator Principles have legitimacy problems arising from their governance structure. These issues are examined at some length, and specific suggestions are offered for repairing certain of the flaws in the system.

Originality/value

Private governance is increasingly important in international arenas, attempting to enforce standards that individual governments often leave to the private sector. This paper examines the legitimacy and governance issues in one system, and makes recommendations to increase the value and structure of the Equator Principles.
Universal standards in CSR: are we prepared?
Authors: Adeyeye Adefolake
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine in detail the positive and negative aspects of selected soft law initiatives and the relevance of hard laws in the pursuit of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

Soft law initiatives are categorized into company codes, industry‐initiated codes, and general codes in order to determine more accurately the effectiveness of the codes in enforcing CSR standards. A number of factors relevant in determining the effectiveness of such codes are identified and applied. Partnerships between soft law initiatives and hard laws are illustrated.

Findings

Soft law initiatives are necessary tools in CSR. However, transparency, implementation, monitoring and compliance mechanisms are core areas in which the effectiveness of the initiatives needs improvement. Categorizing the initiatives helps to identify specific areas needed for improving effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

The initiatives examined are limited to those relevant for human rights, the environment and anti‐corruption. The paper selects a number of relevant initiatives and does not attempt to examine all initiatives in these sectors. The reference to hard laws focuses on anti‐bribery laws.

Practical implications

The paper provides useful information on improving the effectiveness of soft law initiatives, which are the current modes for enforcement of CSR; the relevance of hard laws in CSR; and the role of NGOs in ensuring CSR.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the evolution of universal standards in CSR and calls for a universal approach which aims to address the need for adequate and effective enforcement.
Environmental scan: influence on strategic direction
Authors: Chrusciel Donald
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer the environmental scan as a valued tool for the facilities management (FM) operation to assist in determining strategic direction.

Design/methodology/approach

After defining the environmental scan, its usefulness is explored from the perspective of a single case study public institution FM organisation. Once the information is captured, the potential analysis and value is discussed.

Findings

The environmental scan is seen as a valuable tool in the FM organisation to solicit input from both the institution's administration and the customer community leaders. Through this analysis, the FM organisation can refine its strategic direction by determining what it is doing well, what it should investigate doing, and what it should consider to stop doing.

Research limitations/implications

The single case study does raise the issue of generalisability. However, given the nature of what can be gained from qualitative research, the reader is cautioned to take into account appropriate logic and environmental factors when considering transferability.

Practical implications

The findings from the FM environmental scan serves to not only aid in determining strategic direction but can also assist the FM organisation in demonstrating the value of the services provided. It helps to identify what the organisation should stop doing, do better, and begin to do for its customers.

Originality/value

The introduction and use of the environmental scan instrument followed with appropriate analysis provides the FM organisation with a method to solicit critical input from customers to aid in strategic planning and demonstrate value of services.
Developing a fuzzy risk assessment model for guaranteed maximum price and target cost contracts in construction
Authors: Chan Joseph H.L. , Chan Daniel W.M. , Chan Albert P.C. , Lam Patrick T.I. , Yeung John F.Y.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a fuzzy risk assessment model for construction projects procured with target cost contracts (TCC) and guaranteed maximum price (GMP) contracts using factor analysis (FA) and fuzzy synthetic evaluation method, based on an empirical questionnaire survey with relevant industrial practitioners in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 34 key risk factors (RFs) inherent with TCC/GMP contracts were identified through an extensive literature review and a series of structured interviews. A questionnaire survey was then launched to solicit the opinions of industrial practitioners on risk assessment of such RFs.

Findings

The most important 17 principal RFs after the calculation of normalised values were selected for undertaking FA. Five principal risk groups (PRGs) were then generated in descending order of importance as: design risks, pre‐contract risks, economic and financial risks, lack of experience in TCC/GMP procurement process and post‐contract risks. These survey findings also reveal that design risks may be the major hurdle to the success of TCC/GMP projects in Hong Kong.

Originality/value

An overall risk index (ORI) associated with TCC/GMP construction projects and the risk indices of individual PRGs can be generated from the model for reference. An objective and reliable assessment can be achieved. The model provides a solid platform to measure, evaluate and reduce the risk levels of TCC/GMP projects based on objective evidence instead of subjective judgments. The research methodology could be replicated in other countries or regions to produce similar models for international comparisons and the assessment of risk levels for different types of TCC/GMP projects worldwide.
A sustainable framework of “green” specification for construction in Hong Kong
Authors: Lam Patrick T.I. , Chan Edwin H.W. , Chau C.K. , Poon C.S.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

A specification can be an effective contractual tool to help achieve green construction. In Hong Kong, a multifarious specification arrangement exists in the construction industry, despite progress being made in the public and private organizations towards green practice. The purpose of this paper is to propose a green specification framework by modeling after established green specification systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Three sample work sections of green specification have been prepared for concrete, paint and lighting to represent structural, architectural and building services trades, with which a series of interviews with construction stakeholders was conducted. Assisted by a structured questionnaire, the time, cost, quality and liability implications of the proposed framework were studied.

Findings

Apart from minor additional cost, time and liability impacts, which would level off with increasing use of green products and practice, the quality of construction is perceived to be good if the framework is adopted.

Originality/value

The proposed framework embraces the important facets for specifying green construction. A roadmap is also recommended for its sustainable adoption. The methodology and results will be of good reference value for other jurisdictions.
Validating electric use intensity in multi‐use buildings
Authors: Elliott Jonathan , Guggemos Angela
Published: February 2011

Purpose

In the Poudre School District of Northern Colorado, USA, Fort Collins High School (FCHS) and Fossil Ridge High School (FRHS) have similar square footages, mechanical systems, and architectural capacities. While FRHS (built 2005) is leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED)‐Silver and Energy Star (2009) certified, FCHS (built 1995) is not. Despite the sustainable features of FRHS, the whole‐building electric use intensities (EUIs) were comparable for the schools. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate electricity consumption and use patterns at these schools.

Design/methodology/approach

To investigate whole‐building EUI and identify areas of high consumption, the buildings were divided into workspaces for which workspace‐specific EUIs were calculated and compared. Further, workspace EUIs were partitioned into their heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, plug load, food service and residual components for analysis.

Findings

Significantly, more electricity is used for lighting and HVAC at FCHS (44.04 and 33.16 per cent of total, respectively) compared to FRHS (36.90 and 29.17 per cent of total, respectively). However, plug load consumption accounted for 24.99 per cent of electric use at FRHS but only 16.35 per cent at FCHS. Component EUI analysis identified high‐wattage lighting at FCHS and high computer density at FRHS as areas for possible efficiency improvements.

Practical implications

Whole‐building EUI values are most useful for comparing energy performance of buildings dedicated to a single use. Workspace‐to‐workspace EUI comparisons offer improved energy performance indicators for facility managers. Component EUI analysis identifies specific consumptive activities which should be targeted for potential reduction in electricity use and expenditure.

Originality/value

Workspace and component EUIs provide for more insight than whole‐building EUI when comparing electric consumption of multi‐use facilities.
Evaluation of draught in surgical operating theatres: proposed revision to (NEN)‐EN‐ISO‐7730
Authors: Roelofsen Paul
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that it is advisable to evaluate draught in an operating theatre in a different manner than the method according to NEN‐EN‐ISO‐7730. The NEN‐EN‐ISO‐7730 is an international standard for the analytical determination and interpretation of the thermal comfort of the human body and the local thermal comfort like for instance draught.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a CFD computer program, it is possible to evaluate draught in an operating theatre in the design stage, according to different mathematical draught models.

Findings

It would seem advisable to begin with the draught model developed by Griefahn. The model does, however, need to be modified to include the effects of temperature sensation and the direction of the air stream, so that it becomes applicable to a thermally cool environment (PMV<0) and a vertical air stream, the air pattern prescribed for an operating theatre.

Originality/value

It can be demonstrated that by implementing the proposal in this paper in a CFD program, the possibility exists to be able to evaluate, in a responsible fashion, the results for a much broader range of parameters than is currently possible by means of the NEN‐EN‐ISO‐7730.
Do strengths measure up?
Authors: Garcea Nicky , Isherwood Stephen , Linley Alex
Published: February 2011

Purpose

This paper sets out to draw comparisons and make linkages between strengths and competency methodologies. Whereas some authors have seen the strengths approach as a revolution in human resources (HR), the authors of this paper see it more as a natural evolution. The paper aims to overview the strengths approach as well as presenting a case study of strengths‐based graduate recruitment from the Big Four professional services firm, Ernst & Young.

Design/methodology/approach

The strengths‐based approach to recruitment is described in general, and the particular approach taken to graduate recruitment at Ernst & Young is outlined. Rather than assessing for generic competencies, strengths‐based recruitment seeks to identify the natural strengths of individuals that are aligned to the role for which they are applying. Assessors are trained to look for energy and authenticity, together with evidence of high performance of the strength.

Findings

The strengths‐based graduate recruitment project at Ernst & Young delivered a 15 percent increase in the number of candidates de‐selected at first interview, together with a 12 percent increase in the number of candidates appointed following assessment center, compared with the previous competency approach.

Practical implications

Strengths‐based graduate recruitment provides a robust and reliable methodology for attracting, selecting and appointing the best candidates for the role. It delivers a better candidate experience and builds a more positive and differentiated employer brand.

Originality/value

Ernst & Young is one of the first UK organizations to use strengths‐based graduate recruitment systematically in this way The strengths methodology not only supports its interviewing and assessment centers, but also is used throughout its campus events and through attraction and candidate engagement with an online strengths tool developed and managed by Capp.
Developing talent intelligence to boost business performance
Authors: Snell Alice
Published: February 2011

Purpose

It may be a cliché of modern business for a company to say that “people are our greatest asset,” but this is one truism that should be taken seriously. Up to 70 percent of a company's value is tied up in the skills and experience of its employees. All too often, however, business executives and Human Resource (HR) departments have very little insight into how to use this asset for better business outcomes. This paper aims to look at the importance of effective talent metrics and to examine the problems organizations face when trying to develop talent intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the findings of Talent Intelligence: Key to Business Success, an independent research report examining business and HR attitudes to talent metrics and analytics.

Findings

Despite the business value that accurate, accessible talent intelligence can provide, the research finds that there are significant differences between those talent metrics that organizations consider important and the data to which they have access. A legacy of disparate technology systems and a focus on measuring efficiency rather than effectiveness are the primary reasons for the lack of talent intelligence among many businesses.

Originality/value

The paper examines the findings of a comprehensive international survey of HR and business managers, identifying the barriers to collecting and analyzing useful talent metrics and laying out the key steps towards generating talent intelligence.