bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermophysical and viscosimetric properties of environmentally acceptable lubricants
Authors: Schmidt R. , Klingenberg G. , Woydt M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The use of alternative oils for the lubrication of automobile engines has a potential of ecological and technical advantages. It requires the detailed knowledge of several thermophysical and viscosimetric properties in a large temperature range.

Design/methodology/approach

For 11 different oils, the density, the heat capacity, the thermal conductivity, the viscosity at ambient pressure and the pressure‐viscosity at maximal 1,000 bar have been measured. The latter has been measured with a newly developed apparatus which is described in detail. Two hydrocarbon‐based factory‐fill oils and nine alternative oils have been tested. Five of the alternative oils are based partly or completely on esters, the other four on polyglycols, one of them additionally on water.

Findings

Data for thermophysical and viscosimetric properties are given in form of diagrams and tables. The consequences for the cooling capacity and the film forming behavior are discussed. The latter is only slightly better for the factory‐fill oils, compared to the alternative oils.

Research limitations/implications

The pressure‐viscosity is measured at up to 1,000 bar, which is lower than the maximum pressure in the tribological contacts of an engine.

Practical implications

The published data can be used to calculate tribological contacts which are lubricated with alternative engine oils or with actually used factory‐fill oils. This might help to decide if esters or polyglycols are superior as engine oils.

Originality/value

The results of this test program might be helpful for engineers who are interested in using alternative lubricants in tribosystems.
Managerial intuition across cultures: beyond a “West‐East dichotomy”
Authors: Woźniak Anna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Studies investigating intuition from a cultural and cross‐cultural perspective have a long tradition in various disciplines but, due to the increased internationalization of business, an understanding of the mental lives of other cultures became one of the priorities of management practitioners and theoreticians. Cultures of Anglo‐American and East Asian origins have drawn particular attention. However, an analysis of management research studies and those in other disciplines shows that the former do not back up the “intuitive East versus analytical West” pattern set by the latter. The article aims at discussing this discrepancy, its origins as well as the implication for the managerial practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The article provides an overview of the various concepts of intuition and methods of measuring it across cultures. It seeks to understand how various epistemological assumptions incorporated in the research affected the results obtained. An aspect under particular scrutiny in the article is the concept of cognitive style, which is employed frequently in management studies.

Findings

One explanation for inconsistent results is a premature effort of management science to test a hypothesis generated by other disciplines, applying different conceptualizations, definitions, methodologies as well as populations. The conclusion is that the cross‐cultural research in management is in need of a more exploratory research, paying attention to the specificity of management context and local knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

The article proposes that a methodology that potentially has a capacity to meet these requirements is the narrative approach. Possible implications of this observation are discussed in the context of multicultural teams management practice.

Originality/value

The article provides useful information on managerial intuition and methods of measuring it across cultures.
Internationally‐educated health professionals: a distance education multiple cultures model
Authors: Lum Lillie
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to explore issues that must be addressed in post‐secondary educational planning and delivery such that social cultural factors within the learning environment are recognized in ways that affirm the learner's cultural traditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The adoption of a multiple cultures model of instructional design with an emphasis on implementing flexible learning using instructional technology is proposed.

Findings

The paper finds that as student mobility continues to increase across educational programs and geographic borders, the need to accommodate cultural differences in an increasingly heterogeneous study will have to increase dramatically and, for this to occur, institutions and faculty will have to improve their insight into cultural and learning differences that affect teaching and learning.

Practical implications

Distance education courses are commonly offered in professional upgrading or “bridging” programs as one solution to addressing the apparent knowledge and experience gaps of newly immigrated internationally‐educated practitioners. Useful strategies for accommodating individual styles and preferences in a multiple cultures professional online learning context have been described.

Originality/value

Learning preferences and styles are inextricably related to cultural background as well as curricular and course design. This paper provides a much‐needed professional distance education framework that integrates the skills and values of the student with those of the local professional community to create a unified and authentic learning environment.
Using concept maps to reveal conceptual typologies
Authors: Hay David B. , Kinchin Ian M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain and develop a classification of cognitive structures (or typologies of thought), previously designated as spoke, chain and network thinking by Kinchin et al.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows how concept mapping can be used to reveal these conceptual typologies and endeavours to place the concept‐mapping method in the broader context of learning styles and learning theory.

Findings

The findings suggest that spoke structures are indicative of a naïve epistemology, or of “learning‐readiness”; chain structures are indicators of “goal‐orientation” and networks are indicators of expertise. Furthermore, change that comprises simple elaboration of existing spokes or chains is likely to be the result of surface learning styles and the emergence of networks indicative of deep learning. The utility of these different cognitive approaches is discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The work is limited by the general lack of empirical testing, but the approach is presented as an important source of hypotheses for future research.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the research are considerable. First, concept mapping provides a framework for documenting and assessing understanding at “novice” and “expert” levels. Second, where definitive criteria can be developed from the learning styles literature, cognitive change in the course of learning can be evaluated to distinguish between deep versus surface or holist versus serialist approaches, for example.

Originality/value

The papers original and comprises a synthetic approach to the study of learning style and learning theory through the use of the concept‐mapping method. It has both practical and theoretical value because it suggests a new approach and is an important source of testable hypotheses.
The development of employer training in Australia
Authors: Smith Andrew
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the statistical evidence for the extent of employer training in Australia and analyse this information in the light of three major qualitative projects that have been undertaken into employer training since the mid‐1990s.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports an analysis of the major statistical databases on employer training in Australia and also draws evidence from three major projects that used a case study method in their qualitative phases.

Findings

The paper finds that assumptions about low levels of employer training expenditure in Australia are not supported by the available statistical data. The three qualitative projects examined also support the conclusion that Australian enterprises are increasing both the quality and quality of the training they provide to their employees.

Research limitations/implications

The research projects reported in this paper were completed during the period 1994‐2004.

Practical implications

The paper concludes that the research evidence supports an increasing quality and quantity of training in Australian enterprises. In recent years this increase in training activity has been partly driven by government policies aimed at making nationally recognised training more available to employers and employees.

Originality/value

The paper counters the prevailing assumptions about the quality and quality of training provided by Australian employers and shows that carefully framed government policy can have a major effect on the level of employer investment in training.
Exploring the behavioural patterns of entrepreneurial learning
Authors: Wing Yan Man Thomas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically explore the behavioural patterns involved in entrepreneurial learning through a conceptualization of entrepreneurial learning as a “competency”.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews to 12 entrepreneurs were conducted with a focus on the critical incidents in which significant learning has occurred prior to and during the development of their businesses, based on a competency framework of entrepreneurial learning. The learning behaviours in which these entrepreneurs exhibited during the incidents were coded.

Findings

The findings suggested that there are six behavioural patterns of entrepreneurial learning, including: actively seeking learning opportunities; learning selectively and purposely; learning in depth; learning continuously; improving and reflecting upon experience; and successfully transferring prior experience into current practices.

Research limitations/implications

Entrepreneurial learning is more than acquiring experience, skills and knowledge or possessing attributes related to learning. Rather, a competent entrepreneur needs to demonstrate a set of behavioural patterns of effective learning. Moreover, these behavioural patterns are identifiable for the purpose of measurement.

Practical implications

The education and training for the entrepreneur can be considered from a behavioural perspective, with an emphasis on behavioural modification of the entrepreneur's learning patterns rather than skill or knowledge acquisition only. Also, this should be grounded upon the provision of appropriate contexts that provide or simulate the experiences of which the entrepreneur will likely come across, so that the learning behaviours can be stimulated.

Originality/value

Studying entrepreneurial learning under a competency framework allows us to explore the behavioural patterns and other factors involved in effective entrepreneurial learning with a closer connection to entrepreneurial success.
Entrepreneurship education in South Africa: a nationwide survey
Authors: Jesselyn Co Mary , Mitchell Bruce
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the state of development of entrepreneurship education, determine the importance of entrepreneurship in the South African higher education institutions (HEIs), and offer recommendations for improving preparations for the developing field.

Design/methodology/approach

An e‐mail survey has been conducted on South African HEIs. The respondents were academic staff members who are involved in teaching and researching entrepreneurship.

Findings

Results indicate that the entrepreneurship education in South Africa is in its developmental stage, although it is perceived as important in elevating the profile of any institution and there is increasing commitment from the institutions in academic, research and outreach offerings in entrepreneurship. The teaching and assessment methods follow traditional classroom delivery while research in entrepreneurship in South Africa is perceived as less rigorous than other management disciplines.

Research limitations/implications

Although all HEIs were requested to become respondents in this survey, some have decided not to participate. Also, some academics involved in entrepreneurship may have been excluded if they are not on the e‐mail list of the Academic Entrepreneurship Society (AcES) of South Africa.

Practical implications

The findings suggest recommendations geared towards curriculum development, evaluation of teaching and assessment methodologies as well as the creation of partnerships with local communities for opportunities in internships and worksite visits.

Originality/value

This is the first study conducted on entrepreneurship education in South Africa, based on a national study encompassing most HEIs in this country.
Graduate career‐making and business start‐up: a literature review
Authors: Nabi Ghulam , Holden Rick , Walmsley Andreas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a selective review of literature on the career‐related decision‐making processes in terms of the transition from student to business start‐up, and the nature and influence of support and guidance.

Design/methodology/approach

Primarily, a critical review of a range of recently published literature (1995‐2005) addressing the theoretical and practical aspects of the journey from student to start‐up. The literature is divided into sections: the graduate labour market: a state of flux; Conceptual and definitional issues; Career choice and decision‐making; and Start‐up training and support.

Findings

The paper finds that despite an increasing body of theoretical and empirical literature on career choice in general and on the career choice to start‐up a business in the form of intention models, there remains a lack of in‐depth research on the stories, circumstances, contexts and complexities of graduates on their journey from student to business start‐up. A transition from entrepreneurial intentions to actual start‐up is often assumed but under‐researched in terms of career development and decision making processes. The nexus between training, support, intent and actual career choice to start‐up a business remains under‐investigated.

Research limitations/implications

Given that careers are made in a changing and complex context, simple relationships should not be expected. Hence, rather than focusing solely on certain aspects of the start‐up process, research is needed that takes a more holistic approach.

Practical implications

The study highlights the need for research that does justice to the complexities of the decisions made in the process from student to start‐up and by implication public policy and practice in relation to formal intervention within this aspect of the graduate labour market.

Originality/value

The paper lays the basis for a more nuanced understanding of the journey from student to start‐up of value to both researchers and policy makers.
New technology: the potential impact of surveillance techniques in recruitment practices
Authors: Searle Rosalind H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To outline changes in selection attraction, search and assessment processes and examine and compare, using a surveillance perspective, the privacy and equity issues for applicants, organisations and testers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by reviewing briefly the role of surveillance and identifying the key issues of privacy, control and purpose of data collection and dissemination in an HR context. Through reviewing recent publications (1998‐2004) contrasts are made between earlier and new processes in applicant attraction, search and assessment. The impact of these potential changes on privacy and equity is then examined for three stakeholders: applicants, organisations, and testers.

Findings

Identifies the potential for misuse of data through these systems and the possibility of the perpetuation of discrimination for traditional marginalised groups. Raises the increased power brought about through such processes for organisations through data assemblage and for testers via increased control of their tools.

Research limitations/implications

Calls for more critical work to examine the impact of new attraction, search and assessment practices on applicants to reveal whether the improved equity of access new technology affords is translated into increased equity of participation.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information about current processes and concerns they raise. Outlines future research agendas in these three areas.

Originality/value

This paper updates one's understanding of current practice and reveals genuine concerns about the potential applications of surveillance techniques within an HR context.
Implications of trust and distrust for organizations
Authors: Jason Huang Heh , Dastmalchian Ali
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the associations of societal trust and distrust with customer orientation. This paper also examines the impact of the above associations on organizational and HRM aspects of cautiousness, culture for change and job satisfaction in the banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this paper were collected from 812 bank employees in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the USA. Based on the suggestions in the literature this paper provides evidence to support the assertion that concepts of trust and distrust are not part of the same continuum.

Findings

The results show a positive association between trust and customer orientation, and provide support for the conceptual distinction between societal trust and distrust. In addition, the study shows that the presence of a culture for change in banks moderates the relationship between societal trust and customer orientation. The results also suggest the overall importance of exercising cautiousness in the banking industry.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this research include collection of data from single sources (bank employees) and the cross‐sectional nature of the design. Implications of the results are: the distinction between trust and distrust and its implications for management of trust in organizations; the connection between trust, customer orientation and company performance; specific issues relating to banks – e.g. importance of culture of change, cautiousness and trust.

Practical implications

Impact of developing trust in banks is not just for the quality of the relationships among bank employees. It is also perceived by the bank's customers and will have positive implications for the performance of the bank. Also, minimizing or removing “distrust” before expecting a working environment characterized by trust can be achievable. Also, importance of creating a culture that is conducive to change is a key component of a developing and maintaining trust in organizations.

Originality/value

The evidence that shows the conceptual distinction between trust and distrust is a key finding. Also, cross national data on banks in which trust is shown to be connected to customer orientation and by implication to bank's performance in a unique finding.
Does pay‐for‐performance enhance perceived distributive justice for collectivistic employees?
Authors: Chang Eunmi , Hahn Juhee
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine the effect of pay‐for‐performance on distributive justice and the moderating effect of commitment performance appraisal in the case of Korean employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 28 companies and 656 employees. Moderated regression analyses were employed.

Findings

Findings show that pay‐for‐performance enhances employees' perception of distributive justice only when there is a commitment performance appraisal practice. Additional analysis shows that the commitment performance appraisal practices of a company influence employee perceptions of such practices in a U‐shape fashion.

Research limitations/implications

Since, data were collected from 28 companies, the results may need to be modified before being generalized to/for Korean companies.

Practical implications

It is notable that only when accompanied by commitment performance appraisal does pay‐for‐performance enhance employee perception of distributive justice. Managers in Korean companies should consider implementing commitment appraisal practices when they want to utilize pay‐for‐performance.

Originality/value

This paper notes the fundamental changes in the pay systems in Korean companies, and offers practical implications for managers starting out on a pay‐for‐performance system.
Safety climate in an automobile manufacturing plant
Authors: Clarke Sharon
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The study aims to examine the safety attitudes of workers, supervisors and managers in a UK‐based car manufacturing plant, and their relationship with unsafe behaviour and accidents.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire methodology is used to measure safety attitudes and perceptions. The data are analysed using factor analysis and hierarchical multiple regression.

Findings

The factor structure of the safety climate at the plant comprised three factors: managers' concern for safety; workers' response to safety; conflict between production and safety, which correspond to those found in previous studies in the UK manufacturing sector. Whilst safety climate did not predict accident involvement at the plant, workers' response to safety and conflict between production and safety significantly predicted unsafe behaviour. Perceptions of the work environment had important effects as a significant predictor of both accidents and unsafe behaviour. However, job communication failed to predict either safety outcome. There was little difference in the strength of the safety climate perceived across hierarchical levels.

Research limitations/implications

It is recommended that future research should examine the direct effects of organisational factors beyond the strictures of the “safety culture” framework.

Practical implications

Safety interventions need to focus on how individuals perceive their immediate work environment, as well as improving safety policy and procedures, as these perceptions have most direct influence on safety outcomes.

Originality/value

This paper offers new direction for researchers and advice for those designing safety interventions aimed at reducing accidents.
Self‐directed expatriation: family matters
Authors: Richardson Julia
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a theoretically grounded exploration of the family's role in the decision to expatriate independently.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study drawing on data collected in interviews with 30 British faculty working in universities in Singapore, New Zealand, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Data analysis was performed using computer assisted qualitative data analysis software (NVivo).

Findings

Family played a strong role in the decision to expatriate independently, particularly spouse and children. Yet, extended family remaining in the home country were also implicated. Moreover, participants drew on previous family experiences and history to explain their decision. The concept of the “significant” other was useful in explaining these findings.

Research limitations/implications

As an exploratory study the sample size was appropriate. However, a larger study might present further themes and/or allow generalization. Alternative family forms were not well represented but they were identified as deserving further attention.

Practical implications

Given their centrality in the respective decision‐making process family should be taken into account when managing self‐directed expatriates. Moreover, rather than problematizing it as an encumbrance to be managed, families are allies who stand to gain as much from expatriation as the candidate to whom the position is offered.

Originality/value

The paper extents beyond the traditional corporate assignment model to consider self‐directed expatriate academics. It also answers call for more theoretically grounded studies of expatriation by drawing on interpretive interactionism. A further value is that it draws on contemporary career theory as a useful framework to recognise the embeddedness of the family in expatriation as a career decision.
Towards information fluency: applying a different model to an information literacy credit course
Authors: Sharkey Jennifer
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine information literacy, critical thinking, and computer literacy in higher education and discuss the application of the information fluency model, created by the Associated Colleges of the South, to the Purdue University Libraries one‐credit information literacy course, GS 175 Information Strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study has a two‐part focus. The first examines information literacy, critical thinking, and computer literacy in higher education through a review of the literature. The second part discusses the pilot GS 175 Information Strategies course, shows how the information fluency model was applied, and analyzes the overall success of the pilot.

Findings

Today, employers and professors expect graduates and students to exhibit critical thinking, analysis, research, and technology skills at a fairly high level. Universities are responding with a more rapid integration and adoption of technology and creating a higher emphasis on information use and retrieval. Increasingly, student research projects are being displayed, presented, and contained in a variety of formats. Library instruction programs and courses need to evolve and adapt to these changes as shown through the successful modification of the GS 175 Information Strategies course.

Practical implications

The article provides ideas and concepts for enhancing the critical thinking and technology components of an information literacy course or program as well as touches on what to avoid when modifying assignments and projects.

Originality/value

The application of the information fluency model is a fairly new model to the library profession. This case study shows one way information literacy credit courses can be modified to accommodate the changing educational landscape and the expectations of Generation Y. It can be used by instruction librarians and their faculty partners to explore alternatives to their current instructional programs.
Do libraries matter?
Authors: Barbara Watstein Sarah , Mitchell Eleanor
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This editorial considers the question “do libraries matter?” from a variety of perspectives and angles.

Design/methodology/approach

Four recent documents are examined – Chad and Miller's, 2005 white paper, “Do libraries matter? The rise of Library 2.0.” from Talis; the Bibliographic Services Task Force (BSTF) final report (December 2005) from the University of California, Rethinking How We Provide Bibliographic Services for the University of California; OCLC's 2005, Perceptions of Libraries and Information Resources; and the Horizon Report, 2006, a collaboration between The New Media Consortium and the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative, an EDUCAUSE program.

Findings

Several themes surface again and again in the documents examined. These include: the increasing impact of emerging technologies on our users and on our libraries; changing attitudes toward technology and communication; and changing interests, behaviors, habits and expectations of our modern users. The article concludes that while libraries and information professionals are relevant in today's society, the challenge to remain as relevant as other information providers is indeed formidable, and remaining relevant demands change.

Practical implications

Informs and stimulates discussion about the information landscape and our place and position in it.

Originality/value

Reinforces the widely‐held belief that libraries matter, and that libraries, as well as information professionals remain relevant in today's world. Challenges the reader to think about significant issues and trends impacting libraries today.
Creating a composite of user behavior to inform decisions about new and existing library services
Authors: Bejune Matthew , Kinkus Jane
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper presents a method of data collection and analysis to inform decisions about when to offer human‐mediated library services.

Design/methodology approach

The methodology was synthesized from several examples in the literature of metrics collection and evaluation

Findings

Analysis of several sets of data collected from various online resources and services revealed clear patterns of online activity within Purdue University Libraries, which informed a recommendation for expansion of chat reference service hours and then a second expansion of hours based on the results of the first expansion.

Research limitations/implication

The results of this study offer validation for the usefulness of the methodology presented, but further applications of the methodology with other human‐mediated services need to be undertaken.

Practical implications

The basic methodology can easily be tailored to the specific needs of an institution.

Originality/value

Supports with empirical evidence the techniques recommended by others for collecting and analyzing data pertaining to in‐person and online use of library resources and services.
The Salton Sea: a selective annotated bibliography
Authors: Payne William
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a selective bibliography for reference librarians with sources they can use for helping patrons researching the Salton Sea.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows recently published or created works, which aim is to provide authoritative and scholarly information. With the exception of two, all sources are current and aid in fundamental research. The sources are sorted into sections: books, articles, reports, and websites.

Findings

The paper provides a critique of each source and its informational value. Each section includes the key sources available.

Research limitations/implications

The paper implies it is not a comprehensive list, of which would number in the hundreds and would date back several decades.

Practical implications

This paper is a very useful resource for anyone seeking information about the Salton Sea, ecological conservation, avian habitats/flyways, and inland water policy.

Originality/value

The bibliography in this paper fills an identified need and offers users a starting point as well as further information/readings.
Gathering customer feedback online and Swedish SMEs
Authors: Opoku Robert A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims at exploring and describing the tools used by small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) to collect customer feedback online, their components and the criteria used in selecting these internet‐based tools.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple in‐depth case studies were conducted on five SMEs all of which are engaged in customer feedback collection online. The data collected by personal interviews was analysed in a cross‐case analysis. Findings: We conclude that e‐mail is the most dominant tool though supported other offline means. Components of Internet‐based customer feedback system and the criteria for assessing Internet‐based customer feedback collection tool by SMEs were also identified.

Research limitation/implications

Five cases were investigated out of 60 and the study was restricted to the northern part of Sweden. Adding other methods could also have cross‐fertilised the study.

Practical implications

The study reinforces the need for SMEs managers to use the Internet to gather feedback from customers online, learn much about the nature and habits of their customers and the best medium to reach out to them – be it Internet‐based, offline or the combination of the two.

Originality/value

Application of the concept of customer feedback collection and theories on the components and the criteria used in selecting Internet‐based tools in a relatively new context.
Proton transitioning to Malaysian engine
Authors: Chacko George K.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Can instances of empirical success/failure yield an established sequence of ordered procedures (Protocol): management of technology protocol (MOTEP) to improve the probability of corporate/country survival/success?Design/methodology/approach– The long established technology of Japanese Mitsubishi engines used by Proton, Malaysia’s national car‐maker, since September 1985, is due to be supplanted at the beginning of February, 2004 by the emerging technology of the all‐Malaysian Gen2 engine. Can Chacko’s MOTEP suggest how Proton should pro‐actively target Gen2 sales?Findings– MOTEP determined first year sales of Gen2 cars formally using the form of the sales curve of the established technology. It was projected substantively based on the system performance characteristics (SPC) which attracted customers to Gen2. The theory of concomitant coalitions (CONCOL) shows us how Proton can cooperate with their competitor, Perodua, on R&D for system performance characteristics‐improving technology while competing with Perodua in the market. How much R&D is justified? How should it be allocated? How can Proton and Perodua both enjoy R&D breakthroughs in the immediate instead of in the distant future?Originality/value– The paper selects from among the 12 MOTEP steps those which develop for Proton a systematic approach to anticipate, acquire and adopt high technology on a sustained basis to increase the probability of corporate/country survival/success, and illustrates it with respect to pro‐actively promoting the sales of emerging technology‐based Gen2 car sales.
Non‐parametric assessment of CEO compensation practices
Authors: Cordeiro James J. , Mukherjee Pracheta , Donald Kent D.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to present an alternative to the vast majority of studies on chief executive officer (CEO) compensation practices in the USA which have relied on multiple regression analysis and its variants.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper points out the shortcomings of traditional parametric approaches (such as regression analysis) to the analysis of CEO compensation practices and suggest non‐parametric alternatives.

Findings

Using tests for concurrent validity, the paper demonstrates how non‐parametric assessment may be successfully applied to the analysis of CEO compensation practices.

Originality/value

Because of the novelty of this approach, the findings should be of value to those academics and practitioners interested in the evaluation of CEO compensation practices.
Representation and consultation on health and safety in chemicals
Authors: Walters David , Nichols Theo
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of worker representation and consultation on occupational health and safety in the UK in a context in which, following the 1977 Safety Representatives and Safety Committees (SRSC) Regulations 1977, recognised trade unions have the right to appoint health and safety representatives who have rights to representation and consultation and to access the training and facilities needed to support these activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The chemical industry is the chosen site for this enquiry, because, it offers some of the most propitious conditions in which to examine the operation of what has been the preferred model in UK health and safety regulation, namely those in which there are recognised trade unions and where there are likely to be systems and structures of industrial relations in place combined with arrangements for OHS management. Five establishments are examined.

Findings

The research suggests joint arrangements make for better safety outcomes and that there is a relation between management consultation on general issues and those of health and safety. Overall, though, management capacity and commitment pose considerable constraints to employee representation on health and safety. The SRSC regulations apply in all five cases but worker representation operated below the level to be expected from the regulations.

Practical implications

A stronger legislative steer on worker consultation and representation in respect of workplace health and safety is required.

Originality/value

Demonstrates that, even in an apparently propitious environment, legal requirements are not being implemented, and that management commitment and support are vital.
Constant change and the strategic role of communication
Authors: Kuchi Triveni
Published: July 2006

Purpose– Libraries have been experiencing relentless change and uncertainty in their environment. The literature on corporate communications, strategic management and planning, marketing and public relations more recently, has been recommending using communications as a strategy to coherently and proactively handle and foresee change. Planning and using an overall communications strategy will bring integrity and adherence to the library's goals and direction while reducing the discomfort of change. This selected bibliography is a quick starting point for understanding the significance of an overall communication strategy and its use for managing conflicts and changes in the library's environment strategically.Design/methodology/approach– This article covers books and articles from mid‐1980s to 2004, published around the world. The sources are listed alphabetically by author and then chronologically for different sources by the same author, providing brief but useful information about the content covered for each source.Findings– This bibliography illustrates a variety of research from corporate communications, strategic planning, communications management, marketing and public relations literature that emphasize the role of communication in strategic management.Research limitations/implications– It records a comprehensive list of publications covering international perspectives as well as publications about communication strategy.Practical implications– This selected bibliography is primarily intended for librarians, library planners, managers or administrators, but is also relevant to corporate and business professionals, planners and administrators. Further, it would also be a useful resource for students, faculty and researchers of communication.Originality/value– This bibliography presents a much needed resource list for gathering insights into the strategic role of communication for organizations such as the library that are in a state of constant change.
Library and information science
Authors: Missingham Roxanne
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To review skills needed by library and information science (LIS) professionals in the twenty‐first century and suggest a new approach to four key skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Considers the DNA skills approach of Hallam and Partridge and analyses the four skills using examples of innovative developments in library and information services.

Findings

LIS professionals need a range of skills that should be fostered by educators and in the workplace. By promoting these in the wider community, the next generation of LIS professionals can see LIS as an attractive profession.

Practical implications

Suggests alternatives for communicating the skills required for future members of the LIS industry.

Originality/value

Provides a new analysis of selected generic and LIS skills which can be innovatively communicated to potential LIS staff and to employers and educators.
Organizational learning and transformational leadership in the library environment
Authors: Castiglione James
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to provide librarians with an in‐depth review of transformational management and its relation to organizational learning and adaptation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper broadens the library literature related to management style, organizational learning and transformation, with concepts derived from the relevant management literature.

Findings

Librarians are experimenting with organizational learning and new management styles in an attempt to cope with rapid change. Transformational management styles can be learned and applied by library administrators. The extent to which library administrators are using transformational management techniques to cope with change remains obscured by the fact that appropriate surveys have not been conducted.

Research limitations/implications

The self‐assessment tool is based on an adaptation of the multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ), developed by Bass and Avolio to study leadership styles in business, industry and the military. Relevance of the assessment tool to the library environment must be clarified by “factor analysis” before the questionnaire is used in formal statistical studies assessing management style and organizational learning.

Originality/value

The paper provides a useful review of the library and management literature relating organizational learning and management style. This information is presented with the objective of increasing awareness, debate and additional research. A self‐assessment tool accompanies the paper. This tool will allow library professionals to determine informally the degree to which their organizational culture is either transformational or transactional in nature.
The relative importance of the top management team's managerial skills
Authors: Carmeli Abraham , Tishler Asher
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The goal of this study is to examine the effect that nine managerial skills of the firm's top management team (TMT) (persuasiveness, administrative ability, fluency in speaking, knowledge about group tasks, diplomacy and tact, social skills, creativity, conceptual skills, and cleverness) have on the performance of industrial firms (a weighted average of seven performance measures).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from chief executive officers of 93 industrial enterprises in Israel through structured questionnaires and complementary in‐depth investigation. Both multivariate (robust canonical analysis and hierarchical regressions) and in‐depth analyses were used to analyze the study's results.

Findings

The results show that managerial skills possessed by the TMT strongly affect firm performance, their impact apparently being greater than that of variables representing industry sectors, firm size and age, and perceived environmental uncertainty. In particular, skills that are required to manage people (human resources skills) are found to be more important to firm performance than intellectual abilities.

Practical implications

The study emphasizes the importance of complementary managerial skills as an indicator of quality TMT. The TMT's ability to make good decisions and lead the organization to meet external and internal constituents is a very complex task.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature by first, providing support to the importance of managerial skills for firm performance; second, suggesting a new avenue to incorporate the resource based view into the field of strategic leadership in general and managerial skills in particular; and finally, indicating the importance of simultaneously testing the effect of a set of predictors (managerial skills) on a set of performance measures.
Multiple intelligences of transformational leaders: an empirical examination
Authors: Hoffman Brian J. , Frost Brian C.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine the impact of emotional, social, and cognitive intelligences on the dimensions of transformational leadership using both paper‐and‐pencil measures and assessment center dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple measurement methodologies were used to conceptualize emotional, cognitive, and social intelligence. Subordinate ratings of three dimensions of transformational leadership were used as the criteria. Correlation analysis and a series of multiple hierarchical regressions were used to determine the relationship between the multiple intelligences and three dimensions of transformational leadership.

Findings

Results indicate that a multiple intelligences framework is a useful approach to predict transformational leadership. Correlation analyses and multiple regression results indicated that the multiple intelligence framework explained between 10 and 25 percent of the variance in perceptions of transformational leadership and that assessment center dimensions explained additional variance beyond paper‐and‐pencil measures in transformational leadership.

Originality/value

This paper extends previous research by examining the impact of cognitive, emotional, and social intelligences on transformational leadership using multiple measurement methodologies. The results of this study provide a useful framework for practitioners interested in assessing precursors to transformational leadership, with a focus on assessment centers as a useful tool for predicting transformational leadership.
Leadership team cohesiveness and team performance
Authors: Stashevsky Shmuel , Koslowsky Meni
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine leadership style (transactional versus transformational), knowledge level, and team cohesiveness as antecedents of team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted among students studying for an MBA. The 252 participant students were involved in a computerized business simulation course which required forming teams of about six members. Each team represented the management of one firm that competed with the other groups.

Findings

Transformational leadership was associated with a higher level of team cohesiveness, as compared to transactional leadership. Both knowledge level and team cohesiveness predict team performance, particularly among men.

Research limitations/implications

The student sample may not necessarily represent responses from workers in an actual organization. From a measurement perspective, the reliability of the one item scale of leadership could not be ascertained.

Practical implications

For improving team performance, a manager should enhance team knowledge and encourage greater team cohesiveness.

Originality/value

Using a simulated research design, leadership style, an antecedent associated with individual performance, was also found to be related to team performance.
Perceived income, promotion and incentive effects
Authors: Epstein Gil S. , Ward Melanie E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper examines the disincentive effects of perceived underpayment on individuals' exerted effort, attempting to find out if payment above or below a worker's perceived revenue product has a defined effect on their effort on the job.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model is introduced that investigates the relationship between the level of effort invested in work and the difference between perceived and actual income of workers. Empirical evidence is obtained by analysing data on British academics.

Findings

It was found that, tenured academics (or in other words those on a permanent contract) will tend to invest less effort in publishing as the difference between their perceived deserved income and actual income increases. On the other hand, for non‐tenured (or short term contract) academics this relationship is ambiguous. The model predicts that if tenured staff also derive utility directly from publication, over and above that associated with income and promotion, the difference between perceived and actual income has a smaller negative effect on the actual effort invested in research.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical dataset used in the analysis is cross sectional, therefore only able to analyse a snap‐snot of the academic profession at one point in time and not fully capturing the dynamic effects of underpayment on individual effort.

Originality/value

The paper fills a gap in both the theoretical and empirical work on the incentive effects of perceived underpayment. This evidence may be useful in designing reward packages.