bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of instant messaging services on society's mental health
Authors: Rosenbaum Mark S. , Wong IpKin Anthony
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to show how instant messaging (IM) service providers are helping and hindering societal mental health among young adults. That is, IM services provide users with an ability to obtain instantaneous and inexpensive support in their time of need. However, excessive internet usage may place IM users at risk of experiencing symptoms associated with internet addiction and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a framework obtained from coding qualitative data. They test the framework with structural equation methodology and latent mean analysis from data collected from younger‐aged Chinese and American IM users in two studies.

Findings

Younger‐aged IM users in both China and the US obtain social support from their virtual networks. However, both groups of IM users show signs of elevated levels of internet addiction and of being at risk of experiencing symptoms associated with ADHD.

Research limitations/implications

Excessive IM and internet usage may hinder young adults' mental health, and the problem is likely to grow in the future. The work confirms recent trends in US psychology to consider internet addiction a mental health disorder.

Social implications

Both service and public health researchers are encouraged to consider the impact of technological services, including internet usage and IM, on consumer health and well‐being. People with ADHD are particularly susceptible to internet addiction; thus, technological services may be damaging society's mental health.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates how researchers can engage in transformative service research, referring to research with implications that affect global consumer health and well‐being. The work also shows a “dark side” to services and the unintended consequences of service technology on public health. Both topics have not been explored in service research.
How customer voice contributes to stronger service provider relationships
Authors: Lacey Russell
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The author aims to examine how customer voice contributes to service provider relationships as a relationship driver by assessing its linkages to distinct relationship outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling is used to test the study's hypotheses with US customer survey data from two independent samples: a luxury specialty retailer (n=2,586) and a casual dining restaurant (n=634). Both participating service firms use loyalty programs whose members are included in this study.

Findings

Customer voice is shown to positively and directly relate to customers' willingness to increase the volume and share of their purchases, impart positive word of mouth, and participate in a variety of marketing research initiatives.

Research limitations/implications

The multi‐contextually supported results are based on distinct customer groups with varying ties to the service provider.

Practical implications

As service providers are able to favorably influence customer voice, they also stand to improve their marketing performance.

Originality/value

This study provides a theoretically richer and broader view of customer voice as a driver of strengthened service provider relationships. The findings demonstrate how customer voice does more than protect against customer defection by also contributing to customer relationship building.
Post‐recovery customer relationships and customer partnerships in a restaurant setting
Authors: Kim Taegoo (Terry) , Jung‐Eun Yoo Joanne , Lee Gyehee
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop and test an integrative model that explores the structural relationships among perceived justice, service recovery satisfaction, post‐recovery customer relationships, and post‐recovery customer partnerships.

Design/methodology/approach

The self‐administered survey was distributed to restaurant customers who had experienced service recovery in the previous six months. Path analysis was performed to estimate the research model and to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The study findings advance the understanding of the beneficial effects of effective service recovery on long‐term relationships and on partnership building with the customers.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines post‐recovery customer relationships and post‐recovery customer partnerships as outcome variables of service recovery satisfaction. Future research should be followed to deepen the understanding of the two consequence variables in different contexts of the hospitality industry.

Practical implications

The proposed model may help restaurant service providers to understand many facets of the service recovery process by identifying the range of recovery strategies.

Originality/value

The proposed model extends the conventional justice‐based model and provides a starting point for investigating the structural relationships among the variables from a holistic perspective. Such information may offer richer insights into the structure, processes, and outcomes of service recovery satisfaction.
Chain restaurant patrons' well‐being perception and dining intentions
Authors: Kim Insin , Mi Jeon Sang , Sean Hyun Sunghyup
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to investigate the structural relationships between chain restaurant patrons' brand attitude, utilitarian value, hedonic value, well‐being perception, and behavioral intentions with the moderating role of involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the current literature in these areas revealed ten theoretical hypotheses, from which the authors derived a structural model. The model was tested utilizing data collected from 433 chain restaurant patrons. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were utilized to test the proposed theoretical relationships.

Findings

Data analysis indicates that brand attitude and hedonic value bear a positive impact on patrons' well‐being perception. However, it was revealed that utilitarian value does not have significant impact on patrons' well‐being perception. It was also found that well‐being perception is the most powerful determinant of patrons' positive behavioral intentions. More importantly, well‐being perception played a full mediating role in the relationship between hedonic value and behavioral intentions. Lastly, it was revealed that the moderating role of involvement in the relationships between well‐being perception and behavioral intentions is significant.

Research limitations/implications

The findings emphasize the significance of the study variables in maximizing patrons' well‐being perception and in inducing positive behavioral intentions. Since there has been little study of consumer well‐being (CWB) in the chain restaurant industry, the model verified here may serve as a guide for future research aimed at understanding the formation of CWB and its potential impact on other marketing variables in the chain restaurant industry.

Originality/value

The model verified in this study is the first that explains the formation of CWB and its impact on patrons' behavioral intentions.
Restaurant location in Hamilton, New Zealand: clustering patterns from 1996 to 2008
Authors: Prayag Girish , Landré Martin , Ryan Chris
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the evolution of restaurant locations in the city of Hamilton over a 12‐year period (1996 to 2008) using GIS techniques. Retail theories such as central place, spatial interaction and principle of minimum differentiation are applied to the restaurant setting.

Design/methodology/approach

A database of restaurants was compiled using the NZ yellow pages and contained 981 entries that consisted mainly of location addresses and types of cuisine. This paper focuses on locational patterns only.

Findings

A process of geo‐coding and clustering enabled the identification of two clustering periods over 12 years for city restaurants, indicating locational patterns of agglomeration within a short walking distance of the CBD and spill over effects to the north of the city.

Research limitations/implications

The data do not allow statistical analysis of the variables causing the clustering but offer a visual description of the evolution. Explanations are offered on the possible planning regimes, retail provision and population changes that may explain this evolution.

Practical implications

The findings allow identification of land use patterns in Hamilton city and potential areas where new restaurants could be developed. Also, the usefulness of geo‐coded data in identifying clustering effects is highlighted.

Originality/value

Existing location studies relate mostly to site selection criteria in the retailing industry while few have considered the evolution of restaurant locations in a specific geographic area. This paper offers a case study of Hamilton city and highlights the usefulness of GIS techniques in understanding locational patterns.
The voice of tourists with mobility disabilities: insights from online customer complaint websites
Authors: Ee Kim Song , Lehto Xinran Y.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

While the topical areas of service failure and complaints have been systematically investigated for the general traveling public, service failure issues for disabled tourists have been widely ignored. This exploratory study attempts to provide some insights into this phenomenon by analyzing disabled travelers' complaints reported through online customer complaint websites.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 316 customer complaints were collected and analyzed utilizing a modified procedure of the Critical Incident Technique (CIT). Differences in service failure dimensions in industry sector and recovery type were investigated through the correspondence analysis.

Findings

Critical incidents of disabled travelers were classified into three dimensions of service failures including service delivery failure, unfulfilled special requests, and unsolicited employee conduct. Significant relationships in service failure dimensions were identified in the industry sectors and types of recovery.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study are unidentifiable demographic information and lack of necessary details, since this study is based on textual data collected from online complaint/review websites. For further research, more inclusive quantitative data could provide a more complete picture.

Practical implications

The findings of this study could represent a valuable step toward assessing the current status of service failure provided by hospitality and tourism industry, and thus provide useful insights for practitioners to more effectively serve this market segment.

Originality/value

This study serves as exploratory research and contributes to a better understanding of the tourism experience of individuals with disabilities.
Managerial ties in economy hotel chains in China
Authors: Hsu Cathy H.C. , Liu Zhaoping (George) , Huang Songshan (Sam)
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This study aims to discover how the patterns and effects of managerial ties differ among state‐owned, domestic private, and foreign firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through in‐depth interviews with 15 top executives of economy hotel chains headquartered in five cities in China. The typical qualitative data analysis procedures, such as voice‐recording, transcribing, coding, and pattern‐matching, were strictly followed.

Findings

Results indicate that managers in firms of different ownership types use different network tie combinations and differ in the extent to which they can benefit from managerial ties. For example, entrepreneurs in state‐owned enterprises thought strong ties were more important than weak ties and political ties were more important than business ties, while those in domestic private firms and firms founded by Chinese using foreign funding benefited more from business ties.

Originality/value

The study contributes to both entrepreneurship and social network theories by summarizing different patterns of managerial ties and exploring the rationales for the variance. It also provides evidence for understanding the important roles played by executives' network ties in the entrepreneurial processes. Entrepreneurs in the Chinese hospitality industry may use the findings to direct organization resources to more productive managerial ties and manage their network ties efficiently in the dynamic environment of a transitional economy.
The relationship between continuous improvement and maintenance performance
Authors: Maletič Damjan , Maletič Matjaž , Gomišček Boštjan
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an empirical study, which examines the relationship between continuous improvement (CI) and maintenance performance. By examining CI in relation to maintenance performance, this study seeks to increase the understanding of quality management practices in the field of maintenance.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical data for this study were drawn from a survey of Slovenian organizations in order to address the research problem. Several statistical methods including correlation analysis, regression analysis as well as principal component analysis (PCA) are utilized to accomplish the objective of the study.

Findings

The ﬁndings suggest that CI signiﬁcantly and positively relates to maintenance performance. In addition, findings advocate the importance of incorporation of quality management practices into maintenance processes.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the ﬁndings of this study, it is concluded that future research could broaden the investigation to identify more complex measures of CI. Moreover, sample size should be expanded to a larger group in order to increase the generalizability of the results.

Practical implications

The study contributes to a better understanding of CI activities in the field of maintenance and therefore provides insights for managers to recognize the role of CI activities and understand their effect in enhancing the maintenance performance.

Originality/value

The ﬁndings provide empirical evidence that CI is shown to be an effective way of improving maintenance performance.
Distortion modeling of SL parts by classical lamination theory
Authors: Vatani Morteza , Barazandeh Farshad , Rahimi AbdolReza , Sanati Nezhad Amir
Published: April 2012

Purpose

In stereolithography (SL), the total exposure absorbed by photopolymer is variable and is a function of height. This phenomenon causes heterogeneous properties and develops residual stresses during process. Consequently, a pronounced deformation occurs especially when small and more intricate objects are fabricated. The purpose of this paper is to predict this deformation when miniature and complicated parts are fabricated.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper classical lamination theory is employed to model mechanical properties of layers, layers shrinkage and residual stress growth during SL process. Distortion is predicted based on the developed model.

Findings

Results show that final distortion is proportional to part thickness and it increases exponentially as parts thickness or layers thickness decrease.

Practical implications

To verify the results, several test pieces were built with SLA 5000 machine and SOMOS 11120 resins. Their distortions were measured with video measuring machine (VMM‐3020D machine). The estimation agrees very well with the experimental results (less than 10 per cent error).

Originality/value

The paper considers the heterogeneous properties of SL parts during fabrication process; an item which was ignored in previous researches. This theoretical and experimental study provides useful information about estimation of deformation of SL parts after building. This information helps the SL machine user to select the best parameters when fabricating miniature and intricate features, especially for biomechanics parts.
FDM models and FEA in dysplastic hip
Authors: Dhakshyani Ratnadurai , Nukman Yusoff , Osman Noor Azuan Abu
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of fused deposition modelling (FDM) models and finite element analysis (FEA) related to dysplastic hip orthopaedic surgery.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved the use of Mimics and Abaqus softwares. Mimics was used to process the CT scan patient data to STL format before producing FDM models which were for before and after surgery. FEA was done to study the two different type of implant biomaterials used in dysplastic hip surgery.

Findings

The use of FDM pre models for preplanning of dysplastic hip surgery by orthopaedic surgeons and viewing of the surgery outcome via FDM post models. Different implant biomaterials used gave different results in reduction of stresses that were achieved.

Originality/value

This is original work involving patients in hospital, which got ethical approval and was funded by a university grant. The paper describes a new kind of research in the university.
Preliminary fabrication of thin‐wall structure of Ti6Al4V for dental restoration by electron beam melting
Authors: Syam Wahyudin P. , Al‐Shehri Huda A. , Al‐Ahmari A.M. , Al‐Wazzan Khalid A. , Mannan M.A.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential application of electron beam melting, as a layered manufacturing process, to fabricate dental coping of metal‐ceramic crown restoration using Ti6Al4V powder.

Design/methodology/approach

This experiment was conducted in two steps: shrinkage study to determine scale up factor for shrinkage compensation and parameter selection study, based on thickness, hardness, and surface roughness, to select process parameter of electron beam melting.

Findings

A promising result of fabricating metal coping of Ti6Al4V via electron beam melting was shown. Ti6Al4V coping was successfully fabricated, with an average thickness of 0.52 mm required for dental coping. Total average hardness of 333.35 HV that is comparable to casted Ti6Al4V with considerably high roughness of RSm of 382 μm.

Originality/value

The paper presents a novel application of electron beam melting to fabricate metal coping for metal‐ceramic crown restoration.
Inflation‐hedging properties of indirect real estate investments in Germany
Authors: Obereiner Daniel , Kurzrock Björn‐Martin
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to shed light on the question whether German real estate investment vehicles provide an effective hedge against inflation. To do so it aims to investigate open‐end real estate funds, special funds and real estate stocks.

Design/methodology/approach

Traditional approaches as well as cointegration and causality tests are applied to monthly and quarterly index data from 1992:04 to 2009:12 for the subject investment vehicles.

Findings

There is strong evidence that real estate returns are almost independent from inflation in the short run. None of the investigated investment vehicles provide a hedge against expected and unexpected inflation at different lags. In contrast, cointegration tests show that real estate stocks, open‐end funds and special funds do provide a hedge against inflation in the long term. Likewise, causality tests suggest that real estate performance is influenced by inflation in the long term.

Research limitations/implications

The study still could not investigate closed‐end funds and G‐REITs. Yet, it does capture the most and comprehensive part of the indirect German real estate investment market.

Practical implications

Inflation‐hedging capabilities are of particular interest in periods of economic instability. Especially institutional investors with large asset portfolios seek to adjust their asset allocation to changing conditions.

Originality/value

To date, research papers on the subject of inflation‐hedging capabilities of real estate almost exclusively focus on REITs in the USA and in the UK. Research about the German real estate market and alternative investment vehicles is rare – partly due to a lack of transparency over the past – although international investors more and more adhere to the German real estate investment market.
REIT mergers and acquisitions: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Ratcliffe Christopher , Dimovski William
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Mergers and acquisitions in the real estate investment trust (REIT) sector have been studied in distinct periods and locations, often leading to findings which are relevant only for the period and/or location investigated. The purpose of this paper is to examine the merger and acquisition studies in aggregate using meta‐analysis so that broader findings of factors influencing the returns by targets and bidders are divulged.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a methodology similar to Veld and Veld‐Merkoulova a sample of 15 REIT studies with 35 observations for bidders and 25 observations for targets is analysed. A variety of potential factors influencing the returns for bidders and targets are explored.

Findings

Consistent with prior non‐REIT research, the evidence shows targets enjoy positive and significant gains in a merger. There is also evidence that acquirers earn significant wealth when all previous studies are examined in aggregate. Meta‐analysis results show targets experience higher wealth gains by accepting cash financed deals, but share total gains when both parties are REITs. Additionally, acquirers enjoy improved abnormal returns when the target is privately listed and the use of scrip and/or a combination of scrip and cash produces higher wealth gains for bidding REITs.

Originality/value

This paper aggregates the merger and acquisition literature of REITs to understand better factors influencing returns made by bidders and targets.
Time dependent behavior of the Asian and the US REITs around the subprime crisis
Authors: Chang Chien‐Yun , Chou Jian‐Hsin , Fung Hung‐Gay
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The study uses an AR(1)‐EGARCH(1,1) model to investigate the pricing behaviors of the real estate investment trusts (REITs) for four countries (Australia, Japan, Taiwan and the USA) before and after the 2007 financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an AR(1)‐EGARCH(1,1) model to investigate the pricing behaviors of the REITs.

Findings

The results show that after the financial crisis, REITS returns show a stronger linkage to the overall market returns but they are not sensitive to expected interest rate movements, except for the Taiwanese REIT market, which shows a negative and significant reaction to the interest rates. There are stronger asymmetric effects of good and bad news on REIT returns particularly after the post financial crisis for the four REIT markets.

Research limitations/implications

An examination of the relationship between REIT and the stock market provides information as how REIT provides an effective device related to the stock portfolio diversification.

Practical implications

It would be interesting to see how the Asian REIT markets differ from the US market on return and risk behavior.

Originality/value

The 2007 subprime crisis happened because of the decline of the real estate market prices in the USA. It represents a special opportunity to examine the time‐dependent behavior of REIT returns in a turbulent market environment.
Towards measures of national intellectual capital: an analysis of the CHS model
Authors: Ståhle Sten , Ståhle Pirjo
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The paper aims to provide an assessment of a tool for the macro‐level measurement of intellectual capital developed by Corrado, Hulten and Sichel (CHS model).

Design/methodology/approach

The aim paper assesses the validity and accuracy of the CHS model in measuring intellectual capital in general and to see whether it has application at the national economy level.

Findings

The model's new accounting ideas have great potential, but some serious question marks remain. The key advantage of the model is that it accumulates capitalized intangibles over time. On the other hand, the elements of intellectual capital, i.e. spending on innovative property and economic competencies, software and other computerized information, are too vague and problematic.

Originality/value

CHS model is a rather frequently used method for measuring intellectual capital. However, its validity has not been under critical analysis or examination earlier. Therefore, the results of this paper bring important and valuable information into reliable measurement of intellectual capital and are a step forward to develop more valid methodologies within intellectual capital research.
The determinants of HC disclosures of Indian firms
Authors: Jindal Sonia , Kumar Manoj
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Human capital (HC) disclosures by firms are voluntary as per the GAAPs in most of the countries including India. Therefore, a wide discrepancy exists across Indian firms with respect to their HC disclosures. This paper aims to investigate the extent and determinants of HC disclosure levels of the Indian listed firms in a two‐stage analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

In the first stage, a 12‐item index is developed and is used to measure the extent of HC disclosures of 97 listed firms. In the second stage, a regression analysis is carried out to ascertain the determinants of HC disclosure levels of the Indian listed firms.

Findings

The results point out that HC disclosure levels have high variations among the sample firms with information technology firms having highest average HC disclosure levels. Further, regression results indicate that a firm's “size” and “employees' expenses as a proportion of its total operating expenses” have a significant positive bearing on its level of HC disclosure, and “industry affiliation”, “globalisation”, “profitability”, “ownership concentration”, “age”, “structural complexity”, “leverage” and “auditor reputation” do not have significant influence on its level of HC disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

This study follows a cross sectional design. A longitudinal study would have the potential to determine any pattern of changes in extent of HC disclosures over time. Index construction involves subjective judgment. The study assumes that the annual reports are the primary documents available to stakeholders requiring information about the firms.

Practical implications

The HC disclosure index constructed in this study can be used as a benchmark by the Indian firms to enhance their HC disclosures in future. It can be an aid to the regulators as and when they decide on an accounting standard for HC disclosures. The extent of HC disclosure of individual firms measured by this study can be used by the investors to identify the Indian firms which disclose more HC information. The determinants of HC disclosures can be used by the investors in identifying the other Indian firms (not in the study sample) which potentially may have high HC disclosures.

Originality/value

The study adds to the existing literature by constructing a suitable index to measure the level of HC disclosures in the annual reports of the Indian listed firms. Further, this is the first ever study to investigate the extent and determinants of HC disclosures of Indian listed firms. This study empirically validates a new proposition which has never been tested by any of the existing studies. The new proposition validated is: firm's “employee expenses as a proportion of its total operating expenses” has a significant positive bearing on its level of HC disclosures. Additionally this is the first ever study to use Poisson regression to ascertain determinants of HC disclosure practices.
Construction waste management in India: an exploratory study
Authors: Arif Mohammed , Bendi Deepthi , Toma‐Sabbagh Tahsin , Sutrisna Monty
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The growth of Indian economy has brought with it significant increase in construction activities. These increased construction activities have further highlighted the problem of waste generation on construction sites. The purpose of this paper is to provide important insights and highlight some issues related to the implementation of effective waste management practices on construction sites in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents two cases and results from semi‐structured interviews which shed light on some of the major issues, challenges and drivers associated with the implementation of waste management in construction in India.

Findings

One of the key findings was that client preference and enforcement of existing laws could actually facilitate the implementation of waste minimisation effectively. Some of the practices being followed, and which are gaining more popularity, are waste quantification, waste segregation, and the implementation of 3Rs (reduce, recycle, and reuse). Congested construction sites, sites in heavily built‐up areas with no ability to have an alternate storage or staging location for materials, lack of ownership of waste due to the presence of multiple contractors on the construction site and lack of awareness and education among the construction workforce were regarded as major challenges associated with the implementation of waste minimisation practices in India.

Research limitations/implications

The cases and the interviewees chosen were through the authors' links with the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The cases were LEED registered projects therefore issues dealing with green construction had been taken into account. These cases might not be representative of the entire country, as there are significantly high proportions of construction projects that are not as green, especially in smaller cities in India. However, the two cases do provide important insights and highlight some issues related to the implementation of effective waste management practices on construction sites in India. The individuals interviewed also had link with IGBC. They had been involved with the green building movement in India for a significant length of time. But the length and breadth of their experience gave them the ability to comment on state of the construction sector and its green as well as non‐green practices associated with waste management.

Originality/value

This paper presents an exploratory study which assesses the implementation of waste management practices in the Indian construction industry. It also highlights activities within different stages of a construction project that can lead to more effective waste management in the construction sector.
Cultural consciousness and the effective implementation of information and communication technology
Authors: Gajendran Thayaparan , Brewer Graham
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how culture, influenced by the project setup and contextual issues, impacts on information and communication technology (ICT) engagement, through a multiple perspective approach to cultural assessment. A “cultural lens” is used to understand the level of ICT engagement in project organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

Cultural analysis (CA) is employed as the overarching research methodology. The CA investigates the conflicts between the “espoused values” and “actual beliefs” of members to understand culture. A pre‐existing CA framework with established “espoused values” for ICT implementation is used in this study. Ethnographic interview in a case study setup is employed to extract actual cultural beliefs. These beliefs are then analysed through the CA framework to explain cultural environment and its impact on ICT implementation.

Findings

The ICT‐related behaviour of the project team members is contextual to a project environment. This implies that effective ICT adoption requires careful consideration of the cultural traits in the design and implementation phases. It is suggested that neither a simple linear prescription nor overlooking specific contextual aspects is beneficial for effective ICT implementation.

Originality/value

This paper contributes in developing an understanding of: how CA framework through deciphering “espoused values” and “actual beliefs” can assist in studying organisational issues; and how the contextual issues shape the culture in a project organisation leading to “integrated” or “fragmented” ICT implementation.
Attitudes, behaviours and the transmission of cultural traits
Authors: Brewer Graham , Gajendran Thayaparan
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of an appropriate investigative mechanism deployed to uncover the link between individual attitude, consequent decision making and development of group culture, and their impact on the use of information and communication technology/building information modelling (ICT/BIM) across a temporary project organisation (TPO).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a protocol and conducts a case study of a specialist subcontractor associated with the design and construction of an engineered facade operating in a specific TPO. It adopts a phenomenological perspective, utilising ethnographic data collection techniques and constructivist analysis/abstraction.

Findings

Differentiation resulted in impaired e‐business activity; however, there was a positive impact on the overall project outcome. This was attributed to the positive cultural traits demonstrated by the specialist subcontractor. Individuals' attitudinal traits develop over time through personal experiences and interaction with others. These traits are transportable and potentially infectious, as in this case, where the result was beneficial to the stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper describes the successful implementation of an appropriate investigative protocol to chart the links between the beliefs and actions of individuals in relation to ICT/BIM, and the consequences for TPO culture and the project as a whole.
A scheme design buildability assessment model for building projects
Authors: Lam Patrick T.I. , Wong Franky W.H. , Chan Albert P.C. , Shea Wilson C.Y. , Lau Jo W.S.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to depict the developmental process of a buildability assessment model for use at the scheme design stage of building projects, which have a priority requirement for functional performance rather than aesthetic performance.

Design/methodology/approach

First, major decisions made at the scheme design stage of building projects were identified through pilot interviews and a questionnaire survey on designers. Second, these decisions were rated for their relative importance towards buildability through another questionnaire survey on contractors, analysed using the reliability interval method. Based on these results, a list of buildable and non‐buildable features and their impacts is compiled by interviewing major contractors. These findings were incorporated into a modified framework of buildability assessment for complete design, substituting information available at the scheme design stage. Validation was carried out using four sample projects and feedback from practitioners.

Findings

The results obtained from the Scheme Design Buildability Assessment Model have been demonstrated as reflective of actual buildability level. Buildable and non‐buildable features, as exemplified by typical building projects in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, have been identified.

Originality/value

This is the first model which provides a tool for use by the design team to evaluate the buildability of their designs at an early stage, so that necessary improvements can be made without affecting the development program.
Engineering mixes with politics
Authors: Singh Amarjit
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize that engineering and construction are much more than possessing technical skills and that political leadership necessitates engineering, manufacturing, and construction skills.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper argues that the built environment and process of public investment decision making are proof enough that engineering must mix with politics.

Findings

It is found that engineering and construction education need to orient themselves to the humanities and social sciences, public policy, management science, and law.

Practical implications

The reality of leading effective governments requires that ministers, and prime ministers in particular, have a vast amount of general knowledge that encompasses engineering, manufacturing, finance, and construction.

Social implications

The benefit to nations of having well‐educated, well‐rounded leaders at the helm can only be imagined as having a high social value.

Originality/value

Whereas others have espoused the need for leadership training, this paper adds value to the social discussion and brings out the dimension of politics being intricately connected with engineering and construction.
The practice of strategy
Authors: Reilly Peter
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the obstacles to human resources (HR) making a strategic contribution and to share ways of overcoming those obstacles.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses case studies to demonstrate how organizations are successfully integrating people and business strategies.

Findings

This author argues that HR has found it difficult to effectively make a strategic contribution to the organizations it supports because it has not defined what form a strategic input should take, a lack of capability within the function and an absence of management support.

Originality/value

The paper explains how organizations can overcome these obstacles and gives examples of how two very different types have integrated business and people strategies, and measured functional impact.
A strategic approach to rewards helps Vinci restructure
Authors: Jellicoe Colin
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This article aims to review how one organization – Vinci – leveraged a strategic and integrated approach to employee benefits to unify three different businesses, each with their own, different set of T&Cs, employee benefits and benefit providers. This work was undertaken in the midst of economic recession that put significant pressure on the business to retain and reward its people.

Design/methodology/approach

The article provides best practice case evidence that outlines how effective employee consultation and buy‐in was generated, employee communication was delivered and understanding of the new employment package was disseminated to staff.

Findings

The paper demonstrates the positive and far‐reaching impact of the work to unify employee benefits provision across these merging organizations. With over 99 percent of employees signing their revised T&Cs and employees making savings of over £500,000 in tax and NICs (National Insurance Contributions), the work undertaken at the organization has, understandably, had a positive effect on employee turnover and overall levels of engagement.

Originality/value

The article presents a first‐hand account of the work carried out to bring the businesses together and ensure the company could offer a strong and engaging employment and benefits package.
Managing the business benefits of product data management: the case of Festo
Authors: Otto Boris
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The paper seeks to investigate the question as to how the business benefits of product data management (PDM) can be assessed and realized. In particular, it aims at understanding the means‐end relationship between PDM and product data on the one hand and a company's business goals on the other hand.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a case study research approach. The case of Festo is unique and allows for detailed examination of both the business benefits of PDM and of the inter‐dependencies of various business benefit enablers. Due to the limited amount of scientific knowledge with regard to the management of PDM business benefits, the study is exploratory in nature. The conceptual framework used to guide the study combines business engineering concepts and the business dependency network technique.

Findings

The findings are threefold. First, the paper explicates and details the understanding of the nature of PDM business benefits. Second, it provides insight into the complexity and interdependency of various “means” – such as data ownership, product data standards, for example – and the “ends” of PDM, namely the contribution to a company's business goals. Third, the paper forms the baseline for a comprehensive method supporting the management of PDM business benefits.

Research limitations/implications

Single‐case studies require further validation of findings. Thus, future research should aim at replicating the findings and at developing a comprehensive method for the management of PDM business benefits.

Practical implications

Companies may take up the results as a “blueprint” for their own PDM activities and may reflect their own business benefits against the case of Festo.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the first contributions focusing on the means‐end relationship between PDM and product data on the one hand and a company's business goals on the other.
Exploring paternalistic leadership and its application to the Indonesian public sector
Authors: Irawanto Dodi W. , Ramsey Phil L. , Tweed David C.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This present work aims to report on a study that examines the applicability of Paternalistic Leadership (PL) to public sector organisations in Indonesia. The paper seeks to discuss whether the construct of PL is perceived the same way across different cultures on the basis of an empirically‐based profile of Indonesian public sector leadership developed on the basis of a large‐scale survey carried out in Indonesian government agencies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consisted of 1,000 civil servants in the East Java and Jogyakarta Special Region Provinces of Indonesia. Data were collected using simple random sampling techniques. The 42 items in the PL instrument were subjected to explanatory factor analysis (EFA) with variamax rotation. EFA was used to test the degree to which the model of PL proposed by Cheng applied to the Indonesian sample.

Findings

Using confirmatory factor analysis the results showed that there are core similarities with the Chenget al.model which has been tested in Taiwan. The Indonesian benevolent, moral‐leadership behaviour is substantially confirmed with the model adopted for this study. According to civil servants' perception, it seems likely that Indonesian leaders are visible and authoritarian.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are based on a relatively small proportion of the total number of Indonesian civil servants, and focuses on those who are most likely to still uphold Javanese values. Another limitation is in the design of the study, broader focus on PL will allow the study to explain in any detail what the actual impact of PL is on management practices.

Practical implications

This research suggests that people teaching leadership or acting in leadership roles in Indonesia need to develop a clear understanding of the particular values of that country, rather than assuming that all Asian cultures are exactly alike.

Originality/value

The paper adds insight into the applicability of PL in Indonesian public sector organizations.
A mind to manage
Authors: Rezek Cheryl A.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this viewpoint is to bring attention to the application of mindfulness to those who lead and make decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses attention on both the leader as an individual as well as on the task at hand. Companies such as Deutsche Bank, Apple Inc, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Starbucks and KPMG use this technique and universities like Harvard advocate on its behalf.

Findings

Being mindful can profoundly influence the ethos and culture of an organisation as well as those at the centre of it who take the first step. It can shift the balance from feeling controlled to that of being focused and aware of how we manage our own minds and the impact of our decisions on individuals, organisations and services.

Social implications

This paper is important to any individual in a position of leadership, or for any organisation in considering how to formulate its approach to leadership and management. It also more broadly addresses the need for individuals to learn to take a mindful approach to understanding their own development needs, which will ensure a healthy relationship between leaders and their teams.

Originality/value

The paper will be of value to those in positions of leadership and management in various organisations, as well as students and academics of leadership practices.
Leading the Police Service of Northern Ireland – ten years and beyond
Authors: McInnes Andrew , Meaklim Tim
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper sets out to review leadership development since the inception of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in 2001, its developments over the past ten years, and to look at the opportunities and challenges for the future. It considers the new leadership strategy for policing in Northern Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores how leadership development has been considered before, during, and after the change process for policing in Northern Ireland. Through synthesis of available information, learning materials and documents, it identifies and reviews the key models, theories and approaches used for leadership and management development within the PSNI and the approach considered necessary for success in the future.

Findings

The PSNI has progressed significantly from policing the 30 years of conflict in Northern Ireland, where inward focus was more prevalent than the external partnership and collaborative approach that is needed today and in the future. The change from the Royal Ulster Constabulary to the new Police Service of Northern Ireland required leadership to deliver the transformation required. A new leadership development strategy is vital if operational policing is to continue to enhance public confidence at a time of renewed terrorist threat.

Practical implications

Public sector organisations are currently facing great change in order to ensure they are able to meet the challenges of globalisation, technology, demography and the world financial crisis. Leaders can learn from the experience of the Police Service of Northern Ireland in the transformational change process which took place over the past ten years and how it intends to meet the future challenges facing a smaller service with reduced funding.

Originality/value

This review comes ten years after the establishment of the Police Service of Northern Ireland. It provides insights into the leadership development which supported the transformational change process within Northern Ireland.