bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent developments in interlending and document supply
1991‐1192: a review of current developments to improve the provision of
library materials, together with a resume of inter‐library lending for
1991/2
Authors: Unsworth Joan
Published: May 2006

Discusses statistical data of interlending from the English
Regional Library System and the other UK national libraries in
non‐fiction, fiction, and non‐print material categories. Considers UK
developments in interlending for languages other than English, fiction,
Newsplan, LAWLIP, HIP, the Library and Information Plans for Music and
for Visual Arts, and video materials. Summarises that all of these
projects have presented difficulties, and should be brought together to
pursue mutually beneficial goals.
Recent developments at the British Library Document Supply
Centre
Authors: Wood D.N.
Published: May 2006

Considers some of the more recent developments in the British
Library as a whole and how they are likely to impact on the range and
quality of the Document Supply Centre′s services. Discusses budgetary
pressures and market testing undertaken to determine cost effectiveness,
objectives, priorities and goals. Concludes that the DSC cannot rely on
past success in the light of increasing competition, and is implementing
a total quality programme in order to succeed.
A view of the copyright licensing situation
Authors: Bradley C.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the problem of providing access to information using new
technology while still allowing information producers and providers to
earn revenue. Considers whether copyright guidelines should be extended
to new media, other possible solutions to copyright protection, and the
future for commercial publishing. Surmises that the copyright problem
could be transformed if publishers treat libraries the same way they
treat booksellers.
Document supply in Spain in the field of science and
technology: an analysis of demand
Authors: Vázquez Manuela , Alvarez‐Ossorio J
Published: May 2006

Analyses journal demand received by one of Spain′s two document
supply centres in one year. Examines data in the following categories:
most frequently requested subjects, age of documents, countries where
the original journals are published, the most requested foreign and
Spanish journals, and the fields of activity of the users.
Interlending and document supply: A review of recent
literature: XXII
Authors: Barwick Margaret
Published: May 2006

Describes a number of experiments with electronic document
delivery, and the copyright problems that are affecting its use.
Considers the inadequacies of interlending for the user, the
interlending in Eastern Europe and Australia. Outlines the impact of
CD‐ROM on document supply and suggests that interlending can be a
social, cultural and economic measure.
Newspaper preservation and access: developments and
possibilities
Authors: Hamilton Geoffrey
Published: May 2006

Discusses newspaper provision in the British Isles and the services
provided by the British Library Newspaper Library. Assesses previous
unsuccessful attempts to set up a loan service for newspapers, and the
NEWSPLAN co‐operative programme for preservation microfilming of local
newspapers. Suggests a co‐operative approach to interlibrary lending of
some microfilmed newspapers, with input from advisory bodies such as
LINC, SCONUL and the British Library.
Out of the shadows – patent services from the British
Library
Authors: Garner Richard
Published: May 2006

Discusses the factors that have contributed to the increased
awareness and use of patents as sources of scientific and technical
information. Examines the problems the growth in the number of patents
has caused for traditional paper storage, the use of microform and
CD‐ROM as solutions, and other patent services offered by the British
Library. Concludes that the volume of patent documents has been a factor
in the neglect of a valuable information source in the past, new
services are helping disseminate the information more widely.
LINC, interlending & document supply
Authors: Higham Norman
Published: May 2006

Discusses the role of the Library and Information Co‐operation
Council (LINC), which aims to promote co‐operation as a means of
improving UK library and information sector effectiveness. Examines its
action plan for interlending covering automation applications, the
Provincial Joint Fiction Reserve, statistics gathering review,
performance indicators, and provision for ethnic minorities. Surmises
that efficient co‐operation depends on information, commitment, and
monitoring.
Charging for interlibrary loan nationally and
internationally
Authors: Cornish Graham P
Published: May 2006

Discusses the arguments for and against the trend of charging for
interlibrary loans. Considers the costs of interlending, sources of
information, the charging situation in the United Kingdom, Europe,
former USSR, USA and Canada, and Australia, as well as the reasons for
not charging: transaction size, political reasons, income retention/use
and moral objection. Concludes that the trend towards charging is likely
to widen the gap between those who can afford to pay for documents and
those who can′t, to the detriment of library co‐operation.
Conference Review
Authors: Mowat Ian R. M.
Published: May 2006

A review of the 3rd International Conference on Interlending and
Document Supply at the National Library of Hungary in Budapest from 29
March to 1 April, 1993, and of the concurrent UNESCO workshop on
East‐West information transfer. Developments in networking will move
interlending and document supply from their present peripheral position
in library services to centre stage, although the charges are part of a
long‐established and continuing process, rather than a dramatic
departure from past practice. Outlines the reasons why electronic
information will continue to become more competitive than traditionally
published sources and discusses some of the consequences of change. In
the process of change Eastern Europe is well placed to benefit from
Western development and, already, shows signs of making more substantial
progress. Makes suggestions for individual and institutional actions.
The Dutch RAPDOC Project: FROM INTERLIBRARY LOAN TO
ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT DELIVERY
Authors: Costers Look , Koopman Sjoerd
Published: May 2006

The aim of the RAPDOC project is to establish a system for the
rapid electronic delivery of journal articles in full text to libraries
and end‐users. Pica is currently co‐operating with 19 major libraries in
The Netherlands on this project. On the basis of analyses of the
existing interlibrary loan system, a core collection of 7,000 journal
titles has been determined which is expected to fulfil 85 per cent of
all requests for articles. Bibliographic information on all articles in
the core collection will be added to the central database, providing an
effective, in‐depth index to these journals. In addition to central
storage, data will be downloaded to relevant local library systems.
Speed of delivery is a major goal and at a later stage documents will be
imaged electronically and delivered via SURFnet – the Dutch
research network.
Improving Interlending through Goal Setting and Performance Measurement
Authors: Willemse John
Published: May 2006

The local availability of needed publications is, from most users′
point of view, probably the most appropriate measure of a library′s
effectiveness. Although immediate availability is the ideal,
interlending offers a way to improve availability over time. With the
goal of maximum availability in the shortest possible time, the
interlending section of the Unisa Library has developed a number of
performance measures to determine its effectiveness. The performance
measures were instrumental in targeting problem areas which could
contribute to a more effective service by technological and other means.
Briefly describes the rationale behind the performance measures and the
actual performance attained, as well as the factors contributing towards
their improvement.
Document Delivery at the Indian National Scientific Documentation Centre
Authors: Chand Prakash , Ramash Kumar S.
Published: May 2006

Provides a brief background to the document delivery service in
India with particular reference to the Indian National Scientific
Documentation Centre (INSDOC), which began its service in 1953. Analyses
the service with respect to its performance, customer segments,
geographical distribution of customers, subject matter availability,
subject matter demand from foreign customers, age of journals requested
and numerical distribution of requests across the range of journals
available. Gives an account of intended future developments.
The Access Model: MANAGING THE TRANSFORMATION AT ASTON
UNIVERSITY
Authors: Corrall Sheila M.
Published: May 2006

Aston University Library and Information Services has followed an
“access” strategy since 1985‐86, adopting the model of a
specialized industrial information service. Its style of provision is
characterized by services tailored to customer needs, innovation through
IT and devolved financial management. Information resource provision has
moved significantly from print to electronic sources, featuring
distributed self‐service access via a campuswide network and promotion
of information management skills among the whole community. Service
level agreements for “standard” and “tailored”
services are being developed with academic departments in the context of
a trading company model. The role of information specialists has shifted
from intermediary to adviser and facilitator, and now involves acting as
local operations manager for a range of electronic products and
services. Critical success factors include strategic and operational
plans and priorities, staff of the right calibre, a supportive
organization culture, an effective IT infrastructure and comprehensive
management information systems.
Macroeconomic Conditions and International Marketing
Management
Authors: Huszagh Sandra M. , Huszagh Fredrick W. , Hanks Gwen F.
Published: May 2006

Defines the milieu in which marketing actions are shaped and
implemented, selectively surveys the knowledge base that underlies such
actions, and suggests unique research opportunities to enhance both
knowledge and action. Macroeconomic conditions materially influence
managerial decisions regarding entry, maintenance and expansion
strategies at regional, national and international levels. Such
conditions include interest rates, trade deficits, savings and
unemployment rates, foreign debt ratios, consumer and industrial
spending ratios, and public sector expenditure ratios for economic,
social and military endeavours. Successful competitive strategies during
the 1990s will necessarily emphasize the development of approaches to
“pro‐position” and/or “reposition” marketing
strategies with regard to shifting macroeconomic conditions. Current
theory and strategies are inadequate to the tasks of confronting these
shifts or identifying their presence in a timely fashion. Rapid
transformations of many national macroeconomic systems have compounded
these challenges, placing insatiable demands upon an enterprise′s
information resources necessary to support “appropriate”
marketing actions. Outside the enterprise, strategic alliances with
multinational customers or even competitors may be the most creative
approach to managing changing macro‐economic environments.
Managing Marketing during Stagflation in Yugoslavia
Authors: Shama Avraham
Published: May 2006

Centres on the impact of stagflation on marketing management in
Yugoslavia and on the responses of managers to stagflation. Based on
personal interviews and a survey, reports that while the impact of
stagflation was drastic, managers responded by taking only mild
countermeasures. This high impact‐mild adjustment phenomenon is quite
different from reactions in the USA, where high impacts bring extensive
adjustments. Explanations for this Yugoslav phenomenon, which have
important implications for international marketing, are found in the
country′s self‐managed economy.
Emerging Marketing Strategies in a Changing Macroeconomic
Environment: A Commentary
Authors: Sheth Jagdish N.
Published: May 2006

Speculates on the implications for marketing strategies of the
forces at work in the macroeconomic environment. Aggregates these into
four: regional integration, technology advances, an ideology‐free world,
and the borderless economy. Proposes ten emerging marketing strategies
as the best response: borderless marketing, relationship marketing,
policy‐shaping as a fifth “P”, mass customization,
anticipatory innovation, customer‐focused quality, trickle‐up marketing,
value‐based marketing, coverage marketing and networked marketing.
US International Trade Intermediaries: A Field Study
Investigation
Authors: Perry Anne C.
Published: May 2006

A field investigation of 35 US international trade intermediaries
reveals that, in response to various environmental factors, the
intermediaries have made changes in the products they handle, the
markets they serve, and the services they provide. They have also moved
away from a pure export‐management‐company role to that of a trading
company format. Draws implications for practitioners and policy makers.
Perceptions of Organizational Fairness: A Cross‐national
Perspective
Authors: Kotabe Masaaki , Dubinsky Alan J. , Un Lim Chae
Published: May 2006

Reports the results of a study that examined industrial
salespeople′s perceptions of organizational fairness (a measure of
perceived equity) across the United States, Japan and Korea. Prior
research has found that employees′ perceived equity is associated with
several job‐related responses, such as worker job satisfaction,
absenteeism and turnover. Preliminary evidence suggests that perceived
equity may be culturally based. Findings of the investigation indicate
that salesperson perceptions vary across the three countries. Discusses
the implications of the findings.
Korean Importer Perceptions of US and Japanese Industrial
Goods Exporters
Authors: Kraft Frederic B. , Chung Kae H.
Published: May 2006

US firms must improve their ability to respond to Japanese
competition when marketing in Asian markets such as Korea. Previous
studies of import purchasing have focused primarily on foreign buyers′
perceptions of exporting countries′ products and associated marketing
mix components. Examines the relative importance of these product offer
variables in conjunction with a set of non‐marketing‐mix‐related
exporter characteristic variables in import purchasing decisions. An
examination of the perceptions and purchasing activities of 190 members
of the Korean Foreign Trade Association demonstrated the importance of
exporter characteristic variables in explaining import purchasing
decisions. US exporters′ weaknesses in cultural awareness, negotiation
style and reputation, indicate possible directions for efforts in
improving marketing relationships.
Redefining the Strategic Competitive Unit: Towards a New
Global Marketing Paradigm?
Authors: Schill Ronald L. , McArthur David N.
Published: May 2006

Introduces a decision framework for making strategic competitive
choices beyond the product‐brand, business unit, or corporate levels of
analysis. It adds a fourth dimension: the multi‐organizational strategic
competitive unit which is responsible for planning and implementing
competitive strategy in the global marketplace. Long‐range competitive
success can no longer be achieved by a single company, and in recent
years, the relevant competitive unit has shifted from the company to the
larger competitive system of companies aligned in strategic
collaborations for competitive advantage. For example, no longer is
competition between one auto assembler and another, but between Toyota
and its Keiretsu programme of global networking and strategic alliances
with suppliers and other competitors against Ford and General Motors and
their relative commitment to the more narrowly focused corporate
competitive unit.
The Economic Community of West African States: Status,
Problems and Prospects for Change
Authors: Greer Thomas V.
Published: May 2006

The Economic Community of West African States (EOWAS) is a major
attempt by 16 lesser developed countries (LDCs) to gain economic
advantages through regional co‐operation and to improve their
international leverage on several factors with multinational companies,
foreign governments, an inter‐governmental organizations. This group of
mostly young nations has survived uniquely difficult circumstances and
is now relaunching its efforts at economic reform, trade liberalization,
and political dialogue. Although there are problems, the regional
economy it covers offers significant opportunities for international
marketers.
Attitude‐behaviour Inconsistency in Exporting
Authors: Eshghi Abdolreza
Published: May 2006

Focuses on the relationship between managerialattitudes towards
exporting and exporting behaviour. A basic premiss is that the widely
held assumption of a positive relationship between managerial attitudes
and behaviour in exporting does not hold true in all circumstances,
implying that in some cases a negative or no relationship between
attitude and behaviour in exporting can be expected. Survey responses
from a sample of manufacturing firms in Illinois support the basic
premiss herein. Furthermore, the magnitude of attitude‐behaviour
discrepancy among industrial firms was estimated to be sizeable among
non‐exporting firms. Concludes with research, managerial, and policy
implications of these findings.
Effects of Government Export Policies on Turkish Export
Trading Companies
Authors: Atilla Dicle I. , Dicle Ulku
Published: May 2006

Explores the effects of some major changes in the official
government export policies in Turkey. Special emphasis is placed on
export incentives, management strategies and performance of export
trading companies.
Brand Globally but Advertise Locally?: An Empirical
Investigation
Authors: Sandler Dennis M. , Shani David
Published: May 2006

In the heated debate about marketing globalization, the issue of
brand standardization has received much less attention compared with
advertising standardization. When both issues have been addressed,
empirically or conceptually, they have not been considered
simultaneously. The current study develops and empirically tests a
framework to simultaneously consider brand and advertising
standardization strategies. A survey was conducted among brand managers
in firms operating in Canada, with data collected on a brand level. The
results revealed an independence of brand and advertising
standardization practices. It was also found that brand standardization
was practised to a much higher degree than advertising standardization,
with the most used combined strategy involving brand name
standardization and non‐standardization of advertising. Effects of
product type and brand age were also investigated. The findings clearly
indicate that companies tend to “brand globally, advertise
locally”.
Using the Interaction Approach to Understand International
Trade Shows
Authors: Rice Gillian
Published: May 2006

International trade shows have increased in importance for the
promotion of goods and services overseas. Relatively little is known
about participation by firms in these shows. The International Marketing
and Purchasing Group′s interaction model is an appropriate analytical
tool for investigating trade shows in international marketing strategy.
Explains why the interaction model is useful in this context and
provides directions for research about international trade shows. Also
suggests managerial implications for developing international trade show
strategy.
The Internationalization Process of Franchise Systems: A
Conceptual Model
Authors: Eroglu Sevgin
Published: May 2006

Presents a conceptual model that examines the determinants of the
internationalization process of franchise systems. The basic assumption
of the model is that the internationalization decision is essentially a
cost/benefit assessment that is filtered through the perceptions of top
management. Consequently, the central constructs of the model are
perceived risk and perceived benefits which are shaped by a set of
organizational and environmental factors, and which, in turn, determine
the strengths of intentions to internationalize.
Transforming the Consumer in Russia and Eastern Europe
Authors: Shama Avraham
Published: May 2006

Centres on the transformation of the consumer in Russia, Hungary
and Poland. Reports on a study, carried out in co‐operation with
scholars in these countries, which uses focus groups to outline the
impact on consumers of the transformation to a market economy, and
discusses the adjustments these consumers have been making in response
to new economic realities. Concludes with research propositions and by
pointing out implications for international marketing managers.
Decentralized R&D for Global Product Development:
Strategic Implications for the Multinational Corporation
Authors: Ogbuehi Alphonso O. , Bellas Ralph A.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the effect of a decentralized approach to research and
development facility location in the multinational corporation. Presents
the comparative advantages of locating R&D facilities in strategic
locations around the world. Examines the commitment required by a
corporation to have an effective and flexible international research
organization. Suggests that, if a company wants truly to be a
“player” in the international marketplace, one that is able
to compete on both product quality and cost, a decentralized structure
which allows for the establishment of autonomous R&D entities is
necessary. Substantial risks are involved. Presents research and actual
company histories to suggest that these risks could be offset with
benefits from the strategic placement of research and development
centres on a worldwide basis.
Impact of Marketing Strategy on Performance: Empirical
Evidence from a Liberalized Developing Country
Authors: Okoroafo Sam , Russow Lloyd C.
Published: May 2006

Examines the impact and significance of marketing strategy
variables on performance in a developing country which has instituted
market reform measures. Changes in marketing strategy and performance
were expected. Results were obtained from a survey of chief executive
officers of the top 200 manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The findings
suggest that customer service and reinvestment of profits had a
significant positive effect on market performance. However, reduction of
subsidiaries and employee were negatively related to performance.
Import Purchasing Decision Behaviour: An Empirical Study of
Japanese Import Managers
Authors: Ghymn Kyung‐il , Jacobs Laurence W.
Published: May 2006

Reports on a study of the relative importance of 17 import decision
variables as rated by Japanese import managers. A systematic sample of
52 managers representing different companies in Japan participated. The
Japanese findings were compared with the US data from an earlier study
by the author. Japanese importers rated product quality as the most
important variable when importing products from overseas followed by
timely delivery, price, and dependability of long‐term supply. The US
importers, by contrast, were not as concerned with product quality but
they rated timely delivery, price, long‐term supply dependability
variables as high as their Japanese counterparts. Product safety was
also of major concern to the Japanese importers (ranked 5th) but it
ranked last (17th) in importance to US importers. Importing is equally
important with exporting in international trade. Yet, the import
purchasing study has received little attention. Further studies of a
comparative nature in this field will serve to develop a theory of
import purchasing behaviour.
Brand Name and Country of Origin Effects in the Emerging
Market Economies of Russia, Poland and Hungary
Authors: Ettenson Richard
Published: May 2006

The economic reforms sweeping Eastern Europe and the former Soviet
Union point to a critical need for consumer‐based market research in the
region. In this study, conjoint analysis was used to analyse Russian (
n=88), Polish (n=77), and Hungarian (n=113)
consumers′ decision behaviour in a single product category, colour
televisions. Of particular interest were the separate and joint roles
played by brand name and country of origin in the decision processes of
former Socialist consumers. The results show that Russian and Polish
consumers place considerable emphasis on the product′s place of
manufacture, while the Hungarians were more “functional” in
their decision strategy, focusing on the product′s intrinsic properties.
Contrary to expectations, brand name was less important than other
attributes in the decision making of all three groups. Each group also
showed minimal concern with the interaction between brand name and
country of origin. Discusses implications for Western firms which are
seeking market and investment opportunities in the former Eastern Bloc.
Positive Word‐of‐Mouth: Customer Satisfaction and Buyer
Behaviour
Authors: File K.M. , Prince R.A.
Published: May 2006

Bank marketers are making considerable efforts to increase the
satisfaction of their commercial customers because satisfied customers
are known to display higher levels of source loyalty and to be less
vulnerable to the marketing efforts of competitors. A third reason is to
create positive word‐of‐mouth among their peer and advisory communities.
This study by telephone interview of 325 medium‐sized business owners in
the USA shows that positive word‐of‐mouth is a powerful factor in the
purchase of financial services but is less effective in predicting
eventual service satisfaction.
A Return to Managing Customer Relationships
Authors: Axson David A.J.
Published: May 2006

Argues the need for banks to re‐create the “relationship
banker”. Over the last 20 years development has been in making
acquisitions, centralization and specialization in order to obtain the
full benefits of automation. Increasing competition has produced a glut
of “lifestyle” advertising to segment customer bases, but
these may be widely regarded as only cosmetic changes. Recommends the
need to create a corporate culture based on satisfying or exceeding
customer expectations. A centralized structure may still operate as a
transmission‐and transaction‐processing “factory”; a
parallel less cumbersome structure is needed to allow flexible and rapid
response to customers′ needs. Discusses these in detail and embodies the
latter in the old‐style branch manager.
The Problem of Risk Management in Banking in Oil‐rich Gulf
Economies
Authors: Presley John R.
Published: May 2006

Examines the impact of the oil recession on the viability of past
banking business and its implications for the future loan portfolio of
the commercial banks. Concludes that there is a need for greater risk
management, not only in terms of loan recovery, but also in relation to
more effective portfolio management; this embraces a greater emphasis
upon the nature of risk and return in bank asset structure and greater
diversification of assets in order to spread risks and to reduce bank
exposure to particular sectors of the domestic economies.
Multimedia Technology, Banks and Their Customers
Authors: Bell K.R. , Scobie G.E.W.
Published: May 2006

Discusses an on‐site study of the integration of an
“interactive video terminal” into active service in a
Scottish bank by means of observation and interview of both users and
non‐users of the terminal, the purpose of which is to develop knowledge
of the processes governing technology transfer and to identify problem
areas. Presents summary recommendations arising from the study.
Financial Service Strategies: Neglected Niches
Authors: Philp P. Robert , Haynes Paula J. , Helms Marilyn M.
Published: May 2006

Companies cannot realize their growth and profit objectives if they
fail to fine‐tune their offerings to the needs of neglected market
segments. Because market penetration is the least expensive growth
strategy, increased efforts directed towards existing customers are on
target, but often key implementation activities have been amiss. Some
companies have lost sight of the basic tenet of the marketing concept
– failing to understand their customers′ unmet needs. Such firms
may think they know their customers so well they can simply increase
their offerings without examining the unique needs of various customer
subsegments. In the retail financial service industry, providers have
implemented growth strategies by focusing on their current customer
base, which included women and customers over 50 years of age. However,
providers failed to recognize the value of these subsegments and did not
develop specific tactics to address their financial perceptions and
needs. The increased importance of women as financial decision makers
along with the proportion of financial assets controlled by consumers
over 50 years of age are critical to future growth for the financial
services industry. Outlines strategic guidelines for capitalizing on
these profitable subsegments and examines implications for organizations
which have failed to fine‐tune their strategies.
Relationship Banking: Choice and Control by the
Multinational Firm
Authors: Holland John B.
Published: May 2006

Investigates how large UK multinational firms evaluate individual
and multiple banking relationships, and how they exercise control over
their portfolios of banks. The identification and description of how
firms do this is important for those banks marketing a wide range of
financial services to the corporate sector. Between 1986 and 1990, 15
confidential corporate case studies were developed from interviews with
UK firms. The case firms were a sample of 15 large UK‐based
multinational companies (MNCs) drawn from the FT100. Senior
finance personnel were interviewed during 1986‐90 in all 15 firms using
a semi‐structured questionnaire. Uses a theoretical perspective to
interpret this decision behaviour and explores the nature and function
of these decision rules.
Biases in Appraising Creditworthiness
Authors: Shanmugam Bala , Bourke Philip
Published: May 2006

In the mid 1970s two psychologists, Kahneman and Tversky, isolated
three major aspects of heuristics which induce biases in our decisions,
which they termed as: (1) representativeness, (2) availability and (3)
anchoring. An example of the bias within the representativeness
heuristic is the underutilization of base rates. Decision makers tend
systematically to overweigh current information and underweigh
background information (prior probabilities) relative to what Bayes′
theorem implies. Bias in the availability heuristic is observed for
instance in the area of government regulation. Proponents of increasing
government regulation of business consider the benefits of eliminating
the relatively small number of observed abuses but do not consider the
large number of cases where the current system has worked. Decision
makers exhibit a tendency to concentrate on extremes rather than means.
This is because extremes are more readily available to retrieve
from our mental set (mind) than means. On the anchoring heuristic, it is
noticed that people allow their decisions to be distorted by the
presence of points of reference that should be irrelevant. Discusses
biases associated with one particular activity which is important to
bank marketing officials, i.e. assessing creditworthiness, and
substantiates such a bias using empirical findings.
Consumer Buying Behaviour in Financial Services: An
Overview
Authors: McKechnie Sally
Published: May 2006

Examines existing models of buyer behaviour and evaluates their
relevance to financial services in the light of the specific
characteristics of the sector and its products. Reviews empirical work
relating to both personal and corporate buying behaviour and suggests
the IMP framework as a basis for future conceptual work because of its
emphasis on the relationships and interactions in the buying process.
Consumer Attitudes to Independent Financial Advice
Authors: Ennew Christine T.
Published: May 2006

Consumer protection was an important motivating factor behind the
introduction of polarization in the Financial Services Act. Despite the
potential benefits to the consumer of using independent financial advice
as a source of information and a medium for the purchase of financial
services, the majority of consumers appear to attach little value to the
status of a financial adviser per se and instead attach
importance to the image and reputation of particular suppliers. Reports
a survey by in‐depth interviews of 140 consumers in the East Midlands,
UK, that confirms the relatively low level of interest in independent
financial advice, with the groups most likely to use such advisers being
identified as the younger consumers from higher social class groupings
who do not regularly collect product information from alternative
sources such as newspapers and television.
Foreign Banks and the UK Middle Corporate Market
Authors: Edwards Pamela
Published: May 2006

The UK SME sector has been identified as a potentially attractive
segment for non‐domestic European banks wishing to establish a base in
the UK market. A survey by interview of 30 from a sampling frame of 354
medium‐sized enterprises in the UK suggests that foreign penetration of
this market is unlikely in the short term. At present, medium‐sized
enterprises attach considerable importance to factors such as trust and
confidence in their banking relationship. For foreign banks to penetrate
this market it would be necessary to overcome existing conservative
approaches to banking relationships and particularly concerns over
support to distressed businesses.
Venture Capital in the UK
Authors: Robbie Ken , Murray Gordon
Published: May 2006

As the venture capital industry matures and competition increases,
understanding the processes by which entrepreneurs select venture
capitalists will become increasingly important. Empirical work suggests
that awareness of venture capital firms is still low and that the
specialist financial and legal advisers have an important role to play
in guiding the flow of proposals to venture capitalists.
Globalization of Credit Card Usage: The Case of a
Developing Economy
Authors: Barker T. , Sekerkaya Ahmet
Published: May 2006

Investigates the attitudes of Turkish consumers towards credit
cards, and the approach of card issuers, by surveying two samples of 200
card‐holders and non‐holders: the better educated, middle‐aged members
of the upper‐middle class seem to be the prime target; the most
important reasons for using a credit card were “ease of
payment” followed by “risk of carrying cash”;
non‐holders do not carry credit cards because they do not know much
about it; informal sources of information appear to be more influential
than mass media advertising in penetrating the market; proposes that the
usage and the administration of credit cards are influenced very much by
the infrastructure of the country and, hence, credit card companies have
to modify their marketing and administrative procedures rather than
following a standardized approach.
Customer Service Quality: An Empirical Study in the House
Mortgage Market
Authors: Howcroft Barry , Hill Claire
Published: May 2006

Reports on empirical survey of six major players in the house
mortgage market and determines elements of customer service that are
indicative of both good and bad practice. Compares and contrasts the
customer service of the financial institutions comprising the sample.
Concludes by identifying a number of positive initiatives in the market
and suggests some development needs which would increase overall levels
of service in the market.
Strategic Marketing Practices: A Comparative Study of the
Hong Kong Banking Industry
Authors: Chan Yee‐kwong Ricky
Published: May 2006

Analyses the strategic marketing practices of the six major banking
groups in Hong Kong. Details significant differences. Attributes these
to the regulatory constraint which confines banks coming late to the
wholesaling business. Wider application of marketing is still limited to
the well‐established banks with a large retailing customer base. Hong
Kong banking is generally perceived as a favourable location for
exploring Asian businesses. Suggests that, in order to strengthen
further the status of Hong Kong as an international financial and
banking centre, a stable political environment and effective cost
control programme are indispensable.
EFTPoS: Impact on Channel Relationships
Authors: Alexander Nicholas , Howells John , Hine James
Published: May 2006

Considers marketing information and channel relationship issues
raised by the commercialization of EFTPoS systems. Discusses the role
and experience of the retailer, banker and consumer, and their evolving
relationship in the context of electronic payment systems. Drawing on
previous analysis of information flow within channels, where a dyadic
relationship has been described, considers the triadic relationship
created through the use of electronic payment systems at the point of
sale, and the impact that consequent access to information will have on
the relationship between bankers and retailers.
Affinity Credit Cards: Card Issuer Strategies and Affinity Group Aspirations
Authors: Worthington Steve , Horne Suzanne
Published: May 2006

Examines the history and economics of the credit card before describing the origins of the affinity card concept both in the USA and the UK. Explores different strategies of some major UK affinity card issuers and the aspirations of the affinity groups with whom a mutually beneficial relationship is sought. Successful affinity cards occur where the expectations of the card issuer are met by the aspirations of the affinity group and examples are used to illustrate a good and bad “fit”. Considers the current pressures on affinity cards and offers some thoughts on the need for a mutual understanding of the aspirations of both issuer and affinity group.
Relationship Marketing and Commercial Banking: A Critical
Analysis
Authors: Perrien Jean , Filiatrault Pierre , Ricard Line
Published: May 2006

Competitive pressures as well as the search for fee‐based incomes,
mainly derived from cross‐selling, have forced commercial financial
institutions to redefine their marketing strategies and to focus on
“relationship marketing”. Identifies the major problems
raised by the implementation of an effective relationship approach. From
this critical analysis, concludes that relationship banking is a major
corporate issue, not the sole responsibility of front‐line people
(account managers) – marketing and strategic issues are merging.
Customer Satisfaction Measurement: Prolonged Satisfaction
with ATMs
Authors: Moutinho Luiz
Published: May 2006

Makes the general proposition that the measurement of consumer
prolonged satisfaction can be a central element of evaluation and
control of strategic marketing input. Based on empirical findings
related to automated teller machines (ATMs) showing a different type of
consumer process leading to the formation of expectations, introduces
the hypothesized model of a newly described consumer behaviour measure
(prolonged satisfaction) which is determined and refined by
incorporating consumer expectations and product/service usage rate as
predictor variables to the measurement of consumer satisfaction over
time.
Retail Banking in Spain: Recent Changes and Their Effect on
the Content and Culture of Front‐desk Jobs
Authors: Bosch Font Francisco
Published: May 2006

Spanish retail banking can be considered largely representative of
retail banking in other developed European countries. The
transformations in the Spanish retail banking system since the 1960s,
especially the shift in emphasis from production to delivery/sales,
brought about by a combination of technological change, heightened
competition and increased client sophistication, are analysed from the
point of view of their effect on the tasks carried out by front‐desk
staff and the skills required to carry out those tasks. The changes in
the prevailing culture of front‐desk staff is also discussed. It is
concluded that the attempt to change the mentality, or culture, of
front‐desk staff from that of “clerks” to that of
“salespeople” is unnecessary. Rather, they should be thought
of as “salesclerks”, and their culture should be
client‐centred rather than sales‐centred.
Branch Networks and Alternative Distribution Channels:
Threats and Opportunities
Authors: Howcroft J.B.
Published: May 2006

A decade ago the threat posed to branch networks by emerging
alternative distribution channels was largely perceived of in terms of
the eventual effect they might have on the size and number of
operational branches. Although still a valid concern, this consideration
has proved to be of less significance and certainly of less academic
interest than the innovative approaches of banks in seeking to preserve
branch networks as important components of their distribution mix.
Examines the different strategic responses of the banks to the problem
of what to do with their branches and concludes that these responses all
have one important characteristic in common, namely, that they are all
market focused and profit based.
A Case Study of Hospital Quality Assurance
Authors: Cheng T.C.E.
Published: May 2006

Presents a case study of hospital quality assurance in a regional hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The focus is on the quality monitoring method used in the hospital. While the quality monitoring method may not be perfect, it does serve as a basis for evaluating the standard of care and ensuring that the full benefits of medical knowledge are being applied effectively to the needs of patients. It also allows for the recognition of problems so that remedial action can be taken to improve the level of care provided.
Survey of Quality in Western Michigan Firms
Authors: Chen Frederick
Published: May 2006

Looks into the quality practices of a cross‐section of firms in the western Michigan area. Large and small firms were studied. Using a survey questionnaire, the study explores the relationship of a number of variables to the implementation process. Studies the relationship between firm size, competition and the implementation process by studying the degree of implementation. In the area of statistical process control (SPC) the respondents were asked to provide the percentage of production lines utilizing SPC. Similarly, in the area of vendor management the degree of implementation is related to the percentage of incoming material which no longer goes through inspection. In the area of quality costs the types of quality cost systems were documented. The major conclusions are that degree of implementation of quality programmes is not uneven. Larger firms and those firms facing strong import competition are more likely to have a higher degree of implementation. The usefulness of quality costs is questionable as most firms are proceeding with quality improvement programmes without a well defined quality costs system.
Detection of Defects in Rolling Element Bearings by Vibration Probability Density and Cross‐correlation Measurements
Authors: Tandon N.
Published: May 2006

The usefulness of probability density and cross‐correlation of the vibration acceleration signal of rolling element bearings has been investigated. These measurements have been performed on ball bearings with and without simulated defects in their races after mounting them on a test rig. The measurement results show that both probability density and cross‐correlation of the bearings′ vibration signal can be used to detect defects in them.
An Efficient Procedure for the Economic Design of np‐Control Charts
Authors: Chung Kun‐Jen
Published: May 2006

Presents two production models for maintaining current control of an industrial process under the surveillance of an np‐control chart. The first model assumes that the process is not allowed to continue in operation during the search for the assignable cause. The second assumes that the process is allowed to continue in operation during the search for the assignable cause. Develops two simple algorithms, which are implementable in real time on a personal computer, to get the optimum designs of np‐charts. Twenty‐six numerical examples show that the algorithms are very accurate and efficient.
Economically Optimal Determination of the Parameters of Cusum Charts
Authors: Chung Kun‐Jen
Published: May 2006

In 1973, Goel and Wu presented an algorithm for the economic design of cusum charts to control the mean of a process with a normally distributed quality characteristic. They employed the two‐dimensional pattern search technique to determine the optimal values of the sample size, the sampling interval and the decision limit. Proposes a search algorithm required to use the one‐dimensional pattern search technique to get the optimal values of design parameters instead of the two‐dimensional pattern search technique. So, our search algorithm is not only accurate and efficient but also simpler to solve than that of Goel and Wu.
Development of Operating Characteristics (OC) Curves for Acceptance Sampling Plans
Authors: Luebbe Richard L. , Finch Byron J.
Published: May 2006

Provides an automatic spreadsheet approach to developing acceptance sampling plans. The technique described allows the user to develop the plan using any needed values for alpha and beta, rather than being limited to those values included in commonly used tables. This allows for more negotiation flexibility and acceptance sampling plans that better fit the needs of customers and producers.
Idea Generation Techniques for Quality Improvement
Authors: Fortune Joyce
Published: May 2006

Idea generation is central to many quality improvement methods and techniques but examination of that part of the quality literature which relates to problem‐solving improvement shows a remarkable concentration on just one technique‐brainstorming. Examines the drawbacks of brainstorming and puts forward two further idea‐generation techniques which the author has found particularly useful in the context of quality problem solving.
Training Issues in Human Reliability
Authors: Wilson I. , Kirwan B.
Published: May 2006

While training is seen to be of high importance in ensuring adequate human reliability, both in human reliability theory and practice, the question of what “adequate training” actually entails is rarely addressed in this field. Many techniques of human reliability assessment, for example, utilize a “performance‐shaping factor” called “training” to help to quantify human error probabilities. However, these techniques do not specify in a useful way how it is decided whether training is good or poor. Similarly, the training analyst working within what are termed “mission‐critical applications” also utilizes quantitative techniques to assist in the definition of training dimensions which contribute to training effectiveness. Such dimensions are essential to ensure that the performance shaping factor of training is effective when the cognitive and motor skills are transferred to the operational environment. Explores the approaches which are commonly used both by the training analyst and by the human reliability practitioner, and indicates where the sharing of approaches and data may provide valuable insights into the relationship between effective training and human reliability.
The Use of Computer Simulation in Implementing a Manufacturing Process Quality Modelling System
Authors: Estrop S.J. , Kaye M.M. , Nevell T.G.
Published: May 2006

A manufacturing process quality model for investigating the operation of a manufacturing unit has been developed incorporating the failure mechanism of instantaneous assignable cause, mean drift and standard deviation drift. Describes an illustrative example, showing how the new model can be used in conjunction with simulation to optimize the control of a manufacturing process from a cost‐quality perspective.