bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying potential barriers to total quality management using principal component analysis and correspondence analysis
Authors: Ngai E.W.T. , Cheng T.C.E.
Published: July 2002

Most quality management researchers make inadequate use of statistical techniques, especially multivariate statistical methods. Applies two multivariate analysis techniques, principal component analysis (PCA) and correspondence analysis (CA), to analyse potential barriers to total quality management (TQM) implementation in Hong Kong’s service and manufacturing industries. Describes and demonstrates the applicability of these techniques as analysis tools for quality researchers and practitioners. Conducts PCA on a set of survey data and produces four orthogonal dimensions to potential barriers to TQM implementation, then applies CA in order to corroborate the findings of PCA. In addition, CA provides a simultaneous graphical representation of the data organized under different categories which shows how the potential barriers relate to one another and to the different types of industry.
Total quality management in the US Air Force: a study of application and attitudes
Authors: Moser Steven B. , Bailey Timi L.
Published: July 2002

States that the US military has adopted total quality management (TQM) initiatives to help maximize effectiveness during downsizing. Identifies, however, some potential barriers to military applications, for example, the autocratic hierarchy on which the military is based may not be conducive to TQM. Focuses this investigation on the use of and attitudes towards TQM in one branch of the US military, the Air Force. Posits that results revealed that the military hierarchy is perceived as a barrier and that lower‐level personnel had more positive attitudes towards TQM. Shows that, in addition, TQM training was related to understanding of TQM concepts; however, training was not significantly related to the perceived relevance of TQM to the job or the military in general. Reveals the importance of going beyond TQM training and making the necessary changes so that learning can be applied.
An economic comparison of inspection and control charting using simulation
Authors: Tannock James D.T.
Published: July 2002

Control charts for statistical quality control have been the subject of academic study for many years. Various analytical approaches to economic control chart design have been advanced, although none has found wide use in practice. Describes a simulation approach to the investigation of control chart economics. Simulation can provide guidance on chart design issues such as sample size, sampling interval and the use of alternative chart alarm rules. Applies the method to the economic comparison between variables control charting and other inspection strategies such as 100 per cent inspection. Presents some generalized results, allowing comparison to be made for various scenarios. Emphasizes the importance of process capability in the choice of quality control strategy and demonstrates the economic advantages of control charting where special or assignable causes exist.
Senior executives and the ISO 9000‐TQM transition
Authors: Taylor W. Andrew , Meegan Sarah T.
Published: July 2002

Synthesizes 12 factors from the literature which are likely to influence organizational transition from ISO 9000 registration to TQM. All 12 factors relate to the roles and responsibilities of senior executives. Applies some of these factors to a sub‐group of 37 selected companies further to test four hypotheses formulated in an earlier paper. These factors define many of the conditions necessary for the continuance of TQM and are subsequently used to identify those companies which were likely to encounter problems sustaining their TQM initiatives. Presents further empirical data from the second phase of a longitudinal study of these companies over the period 1992‐1996. These data show which companies were continuing with TQM and which (ten) had declared it a failure. Highlights a further 13 which are at risk of having terminal problems with TQM. Rather than use these data for “headline” purposes, recommends deeper exploration to identify possible causes of difficulty.
Sequential analysis of an accelerated life model
Authors: Edgeman Rick L. , Lin Dennis K.J.
Published: July 2002

Acceptance sampling can be both time‐consuming and destructive so that it is desirable to arrive at a sound lot disposition decision in a timely manner. Sequential sampling plans are attractive since they offer a lower average sample number than do matched single, double, or multiple sampling plans. Analogously, cumulative sum control charts offer the ability to detect moderate process shifts more rapidly than do Shewhart control charts applied to the same process. The inverse Gaussian distribution is flexible and is often the model of choice in accelerated life testing applications where early failure times predominate. Based on sequential probability ratio tests (SPRT), sequential sampling/ cumulative sum (CUSUM) plans provide timely, statistically based decisions. Presents SPRT and CUSUM results for the inverse Gaussian process mean. Also presents a simple goodness‐of‐fit test for the inverse Gaussian distribution which allows for model adequacy checking.
Analysis of fault tolerant systems operating under different stress levels during a mission
Authors: Dinesh Kumar U.
Published: July 2002

Derives expressions for performance availability and performance reliability of fault tolerant systems operating under various levels of stress during a mission using stochastic reward models (SRM). Develops a mathematical model using semi‐regenerative reward model. Obtains a system of convolution integral equations satisfied by various state probabilities corresponding to different initial conditions. As a particular case, analyses a 3‐unit parallel system under three different stress levels. Uses an iterative numerical method to solve the system of integral equations satisfied by various state probabilities to study the effect of parameters on various system performance.
A framework for business system and quality management integration
Authors: LaHay Charles W. , Noble James S.
Published: July 2002

Many articles have been written on how to implement total quality management (TQM) and have stated that customer satisfaction is the key to long‐term profits. However, there has been little explicitly stated concerning how a company can meet customer requirements and ensure achievement of business objectives. Traditional TQM approaches have had only an implied relationship to a company’s business system and, therefore, have not in practice been integrated within the business system of the company. This paper presents a framework for an approach that integrates the TQM philosophy within the business system context. This framework is illustrated with examples from the Missouri Plant of the Square D Company and the results of implementing the framework over the past four years are discussed.
An application of quality function deployment to improve the quality of teaching
Authors: Lam Kokin , Zhao Xiande
Published: July 2002

Over the years, many teaching methods and techniques have been suggested and used in university teaching. However, the effectiveness of these teaching techniques and methods has not been carefully evaluated. We propose and test a methodology for identifying different teaching techniques and for evaluating their effectiveness in achieving educational objectives from students’ perspective. This paper demonstrates how quality function deployment (QFD) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) are used in identifying teaching methods and techniques and in evaluating their effectiveness in achieving educational objectives.
Impact of operations management practices on quality and time‐based performance
Authors: Jayaram Jayanth , Ahire Sanjay
Published: July 2002

Recent research in manufacturing has investigated the impact of enabling operations management (OM) practices on quality and time‐based performance separately. This research investigates the concurrent impact of supply management, human resources, just‐in‐time (JIT) and cross‐functional practices on quality and time‐based performance, in a sample of firms from the automotive components industry. Relationships of 13 individual OM practices with three objective measures of quality performance and two objective measures of time‐based performance were analysed using simple and stepwise multiple regressions. Results indicate that seven of these practices, namely incoming material quality, kanban systems, set‐up time reduction, performance‐based pay and quality training to workers, cross‐functional interactions between design and quality assurance and between production and new product development, have significant synergistic relationships to both quality and time‐based performance. The research supports the argument that there is synergy between quality and time‐based performance capabilities.
The system’s view for clarification of quality vocabulary
Authors: Karapetrovic Stanislav , Willborn Walter
Published: July 2002

As a result of the increasing complexity of technology, processes and products, as well as worldwide pressures for competitive quality, quality terminology keeps expanding and changing. Although an internationally accepted quality vocabulary exists, namely ISO 8402: 1994, we still encounter serious confusion and misunderstanding when communicating on quality related matters. This is evident not only at the international level, but in daily operations, as well. In order to improve communication in quality related matters, we propose the “system’s view” be used. In this article, the “system’s view” is explained, followed by a focus on the application of the underlying concept of a system to quality. Four examples are used: the ISO 9001 Quality System, the ISO 9004 Quality Management Guidelines, the ISO 10011 Quality Audit System, and the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System. The ISO 8402 Vocabulary is streamlined using the “system’s view”. Finally, the benefits of this view for creating quality vocabulary are discussed.
A construction quality costs quantifying system for the building industry
Authors: Pheng Low Sui , Yeo Henson K. C.
Published: July 2002

There are three components that make up quality costs: prevention, appraisal and failure costs. The ISO 9000 standard introduces a quality management system that has been widely claimed would reduce the costs of business. One of the ways it does this is through a reduction in quality costs. The ISO 9000 quality management system establishes work procedures that reduce defects. Proper design and implementation of these work procedures would lead to reduced wastage as more work would be done right the first time. Ultimately, the costs of operation would decrease. However, no study has been done based on the above premise. Although it has been widely claimed that ISO 9000 would reduce the costs of doing business, no studies have been undertaken within the context of ISO 9000 certified construction firms. Due to this vacuum, this paper for a start proposes a costs system to capture site quality costs, namely the “construction quality costs quantifying system” or CQCQS.
An employee involvement strategy for ISO 9000 registration and maintenance: a case study for Hong Kong and China companies
Authors: Cheng S.P. , Rao Tummala V.M.
Published: July 2002

Examines the involvement of all levels of employees in Hong Kong and China companies for ISO 9000 registration and maintenance. For convenience, the employee levels are divided into management, supervision, staff and operator level categories. The extent and the nature of involvement among these four levels of employees are studied and an appropriate employee strategy for ISO 9000 registration and maintenance is formulated. Based on the literature review, and the analysis of case studies and personal interviews that are conducted for selected Hong Kong and China ISO 9001/2 certified companies, we have formulated an employee involvement strategy to establish, implement and maintain the ISO 9000 based quality system. Then a questionnaire survey is conducted and the survey data are analyzed to validate and revise the strategy formulated earlier.
Modified process control chart in IC fabrication using clustering analysis
Authors: Tong Lee‐Ing
Published: July 2002

During the complicated production process in integrated circuit (IC) fabrication, various types of defects on a wafer surface are unavoidable. As the wafer size increases, the clustering phenomenon of the defects becomes increasingly apparent. To upgrade IC products’ yield and reliability, statistical process control is feasible for tracking a manufacturing process. However, the clustered defects frequently cause many false alarms when the standard control charts for defects are used. In this study, we present a method for constructing defect control charts in processes that yield clustered defects. A case study is also evaluated, indicating that the proposed method produces satisfactory control charts for the defect data in IC fabrication.
On the characteristics of a protective two‐unit system
Authors: Sridharan V. , Mohanavadivu P.
Published: July 2002

In this paper one considers a model representing a two‐unit identical system with one unit operating online, and the other unit in warm standby. The online unit is controlled by a protective unit which protects the online unit from any damage occurring. The online and protective units may fail due either to a hardware failure or to a shock failure. The failure and repair rates for the online, standby and protective units are constant but different. Expressions for the time‐dependent availability, steady‐state availability, reliability, mean time to failure and profit function are obtained by the Laplace transform technique. Finally graphs are also drawn for the above model to illustrate the various characteristics obtained. Some applications of the model are also given.
The best commonly followed practices in the human resource dimension of quality management in new industrializing countries
Authors: Subba Rao S. , Raghunathan T.S. , Solis Luis E.
Published: July 2002

Total quality management is imperative for new industrializing countries in order to achieve international competitiveness and economic growth. An empirical research was conducted in three new industrialized countries (India, China, and Mexico) to assess the practices in the human resource development dimension of quality management. Our findings reveal that companies in these countries score high on quality concepts, training in work related skills, and continuous quality awareness building. It was also found that in all three countries, the level of training in basic and advanced statistical techniques is low, and that the effectiveness of employee involvement and the level of employee participation is low. Our findings have important implications to improve the level of human resource development practices and internal quality performance for companies in these countries.
Value engineering for managing the design process
Authors: Fang W‐H. , Rogerson J.H.
Published: July 2002

A number of techniques have been investigated (labelling and grouping, categorisation and importance level) to establish usable metrics for the quality management of the design process. The use of importance levels seemed to be the most effective method used with an adaptation of the value engineering technique but with the emphasis on worth rather than value (value being worth over cost). A partial validation of this technique has shown it to be useful in identifying the critical issues so that non‐value‐added processes can be eliminated.
An optimal software reliability design integrating the allocation model and the N‐version programming technique
Authors: Wu Tai‐Hsi , Chen Weishing , Yu Fong‐Jung
Published: July 2002

The problem of optimal software reliability design is considered. Allocation models are usually used to compute the target reliability for each module of a software system to maximize the overall system reliability. This objective can also be achieved by employing redundancy, e.g. N‐version programming technique (NVP). A method bridging the allocation model and redundancy approach is derived. The proposed model simultaneously determines both the optimal amount of redundancy and target reliability for each module to achieve the best reliability while the total cost stays within the budget.
Number representation method for obtaining two‐factor interaction columns in two‐level orthogonal arrays
Authors: Tsai Hsien‐Tang
Published: July 2002

In the Taguchi’s experimentations, orthogonal arrays, interaction tables, and linear graphs are provided for planning experiments, but they become quite unwieldy when the number of runs is large. The purpose of this article is to propose a quick and easy method for obtaining two‐factor interaction columns in two‐level orthogonal arrays. Geometrical designs proposed by Plackett and Burman are two‐level orthogonal arrays and can be obtained very easily by a successive doubling method. Based on the property of doubling, a NR method using a number representation system whose base is a power of 2 is derived in this article for obtaining two‐factor interaction columns in geometrical designs. Furthermore, since Taguchi’s two‐level orthogonal arrays are obtainable by successive doubling with some column permutations, it is shown that their two‐factor interaction columns can be obtained directly by using the NR method without looking up tables.
Reliability and quality interface
Authors: Madu Christian N.
Published: July 2002

The quality performance of a firm is often assessed by the reliability of the firm’s equipment or machinery. Yet, reliability has not received the same attention as quality. Several organizations today function effectively because the machinery which provides the “system of operation” is highly dependable and reliable. In this paper, we develop a framework that establishes the link between quality, reliability, and maintainability. The aim of this framework is to get corporate attention to focus on reliability issues and also, to establish the link between reliability, company’s bottom line, and corporate survival. A greater focus on “total reliability management (TRM)” will help firms to improve their productivity and efficiency while reducing cost and increasing their competitiveness.
Resolving conflict with humor in a diversity context
Authors: Smith Wanda J. , Vernard Harrington K. , Neck Christopher P.
Published: July 2002

Examines how humor is related to alternative conflict resolution strategies. It also seeks to advance understanding further by examining how respondents’ group membership (race and gender) and demographic similarity with the conflict party influence the use of humor. Significant main effects and interactions were found. In short, the results suggest that humor is related to different types of conflict management strategies and that diversity factors tend to moderate this relationship.
A spiritual perspective on learning in the workplace
Authors: Howard Sue
Published: July 2002

The growing focus on learning as being key to organisational success has raised the level of debate amongst practitioners and academics alike as to just what learning is. Consideration of spiritual ideologies offers the opportunity to reflect upon such areas as: complexity and connectivity, the meaning and purpose of work, individual identity and sensemaking, community and collaborative behaviour, dialogue, moral leadership and wisdom. Our spiritual capacity provides a deep foundation from which to explore and question our ontological assumptions. This paper locates the position of spirituality in the learning debate; examines the relationship between who we are, our being, with what we do, our doing; and implies that organisational performance can be improved by attendance to the spiritual richness of humanity.
A Briefing on Cultural and Communicative Sources of Western‐Japanese
Interorganizational Conflict
Authors: Goldman Alan
Published: July 2002

Offers Western managerial psychology a synthesis of cross‐cultural
perspectives on Western‐Japanese inter‐organizational conflict. Argues
that Graeco‐Roman and Confucian‐Buddhist‐based cultural and
communicative codes are fundamentally antagonistic, contributing to
misperceptions and conflict between Western and Japanese management.
Presents the briefing as a blueprint or prototype for (a) identifying
roots of Western‐Japanese conflict, (b) utilizing cross‐cultural data as
a means for conceptualizing a broader based Western managerial
psychology cognizant of East Asian protocol, (c) developing predeparture
training for Western managers anticipating long– or short‐term
assignments with Japanese associates. Recommends a Z‐Communication
hybrid as a means whereby seemingly dichotomous Western and Japanese
communication codes presented in the briefing may be converged and
negotiated, and culturally based organizational and managerial conflict
reduced.
Management Performance from Different Perspectives
Authors: Adsit Dennis J. , Crom Steven , Jones Dana , London Manuel
Published: July 2002

Examines the relationships between subordinates′ ratings of
boss‐subordinate relationships and supervisors′ overall performance
ratings. Data were collected from 3,232 managers (499 work groups) in a
large North American information systems firm. Shows that supervisor and
subordinate performance ratings were significantly, but not
highly‐related. Moderators of this relationship included agreement among
subordinates, organizational level, and function. The results have
implications for the likely value of upward feedback to managers in
different units and the need to educate supervisors in broader aspects
of subordinate performance.
Discourse and Deed
Authors: Pitt Leyland F. , Caroline Tynan A. , Nel Deon
Published: July 2002

Considers the relationship between the perceived quality of discussion
within a group and that group′s performance on a marketing
decision‐making game. Reviews the relevant literature and discusses an
instrument for the measuring of perceived quality of discussion within a
decision‐making group. Evaluates the structural ramifications of the
instrument with relevance to a study of 95 MBA students playing a
marketing decision‐making game in groups. It was found that, with one
exception, the instrument maintained its underlying structure as a
measure of perceived quality of discussion within a group. With regard
to the faculty of the behavioural variables within the instrument to
predict overall unidimensional perceived quality of discussion within a
decision‐making group, it was found that, while significant prediction
was still maintained, fewer behavioural variables were significant in
the regression model. No relationship was found between the perceived
quality of discussion in a decision‐making group and the profit achieved
by that group.
Methodological issues in assessing training effectiveness
Authors: Sadri Golnaz , Snyder Peggy F.
Published: July 2002

The basic aim of any training intervention is to effect some form
of change. In assessing change that occurs after a period of training,
researchers may tap one or all of three conceptually different kinds of
change: alpha, beta and gamma. In alpha change, the participant′s report
of change is unbiased between time one and time two (the pre – and
post‐ratings) because it is based on an instrument that has been
continuously calibrated. Beta change refers to an apparent change where
the measuring instrument has been recalibrated by the participant during
the measurement intervals, that is, individual perceptions of the
response scale have changed. Gamma change refers to a situation where
the participant redefines or reconceptualizes some other relevant
information. Although pre‐test, post‐test evaluation designs continue to
be used, the problems of beta and gamma change are apparent in the
majority of experimental interventions looking at individual change
using self‐report pretest and post‐test ratings. Discusses alternative
ways of avoiding the problems which might result from beta and/or gamma
change.
The business impact of management attitudes towards dealing with
conflict
Authors: McKenna Stephen
Published: July 2002

Deals with cross‐cultural issues involved in conflict resolution in
a high‐technology corporation based in South‐east Asia. Examines the
differences in conflict‐handling styles between Asians and North
Americans and how these differences affect management in the
corporation. Describes how interventionists working with management
discovered that differing cultural approaches to reasoning and handling
conflict can lead to organizational ineffectiveness unless there is
mutual understanding and the development of shared meanings.
Leadership education: the impact of managerial level and gender on learning
Authors: Klein Edward B. , Astrachan Joseph H. , Ernst Kossek Ellen
Published: July 2002

Examines the impact of level and gender on the learning of participants who attended a one‐ week leadership education programme. A total of 550 executives and managers from major private and public sector organizations participated in 14 residential seminars. Three‐month follow‐up questionnaire data were collected from 65 per cent of attendees. As predicted, significantly more learning was reported by executives than managers and by women executives than women managers. Uses a combination of social system and role theories to provide an understanding of the obtained level and gender findings. Offers implications for training and practice including the need for institutionally‐sponsored mentoring programmes linked with gender‐sensitive leadership training.
Implementing a job change: the impact of employee focus of attention
Authors: Siegall Marc , McDonald Tracy
Published: July 2002

Examines the relationship between focus of attention ‐ how much a person thinks about job and off‐job factors during work ‐ and people’s reactions to change. Survey respondents were 205 telecommunications repair technicians who were being trained to use a new computerized job assignment system. Results indicate that technicians with high job focus reacted more strongly to a job change over time, being less absent and more job involved, compared with low job focus technicians. High levels of off‐job focus were associated with increasing levels of withdrawal. Discusses focus of attention’s role in the facilitation of organizational changes.
Measuring motivational gravity: Likert or scenario scaling?
Authors: Carr Stuart C. , Powell Vanessa , Knezovic Maria , Munro Don , MacLachlan Malcolm
Published: July 2002

Despite a growing body of findings that individualistic achievers incur punitive social costs in the workplaces of collectivistic and equalitarian cultures, little attention has so far been paid to measuring such motivational gravity in psychometrically appropriate ways. From egalitarian Australia, reports psychometric data from two organizational surveys, evaluating the 20‐item “Tall Poppy Scale” (TPS), a Likert instrument which measures attitudes towards high achievers in society, and the twin‐item “Motivational Gravity Scenario Scale” (MGSS), which focuses instead on behavioural intentions towards high achievers in one’s own workplace. In Study I, involving 80 employees of a retail chain, scores on the TPS were significantly and positively associated with social desirability effects on the Marlowe‐Crowne Scale, whereas the MGSS remained free of such confounding. In Study II, 47 employees of a major service organization rated the MGSS as significantly more satisfactory than did 49 university undergraduates, who preferred the TPS. Workplace scenarios may be more appropriate than the conventional Likert TPS for describing organizational cultures, but recommends the development of multiple‐item instruments for assessing individual differences in motivational gravity.
The resilience audit and the psychological contract
Authors: Hind Patricia , Frost Max , Rowley Steve
Published: July 2002

Warns that the psychological contract, an implicit agreement between the individual and organization, is at risk when the organization undergoes change. Reports a survey, the results of which indicate that, while companies recognize the importance of people in determining the success of change programmes, more than half the organizations surveyed do not assess people’s ability to adapt to change. Furthermore, reveals that the organizations which do measure capacity for change appear to be using inappropriate instruments. Describes how the concept of “resilience” can be used to facilitate the identification of the cultural factors within organizations which have a protective effect against the negative impact of organizational change, and outlines the development of an instrument to measure organizational resilience, the “resilience audit”.
Motivation to manage in Hong Kong: modification and test of Miner Sentence Completion Scale‐H
Authors: Ebrahimi Bahman P.
Published: July 2002

Examines the construct validity of the Miner Sentence Completion Scale form‐H (MSCS‐H for hierarchic) as a measure of managerial role motivation theory in Hong Kong. Managerial motivation or motivation to manage has been shown to be a major cause of managerial effectiveness and success in large bureaucratic organizations in the USA and elsewhere. Data were collected from a sample of Hong Kong business students. A three‐part questionnaire containing the MSCS‐H, demographic and educational background information, and objective measures relating to the MSCS‐H and its subscales was used as the research instrument. No significant influence of demographics and educational variables on levels of managerial motivation were detected. As hypothesized, the objective measures including the preference for managerial jobs and employment with a large company positively correlated with levels of motivation to manage. In addition, relevant questionnaire measures positively correlated with the underlying constructs of MSCS‐H. Overall, analyses provide further support for the construct validity of the theory’s main construct (MSCS‐H) in Hong Kong.
How information gathering works for the librarian or the personal development coach
Authors: Trickey Keith V.
Published: July 2002

Describes the librarian’s approach to information gathering by personal example. Illustrates the role of information gathering in neurolinguistic programming (NLP) using the development of a new NLP process which deals with the integration of aspects of identity: the circle of life. Provides evidence for the difference in the nature of the process in the proactive and generative NLP approach to change in human systems. Suggests that this quality can also be present in the best of librarians’ client work.
Stress indicators among medical personnel in Germany
Authors: Trimpop Rüdiger , Kirkcaldy Bruce
Published: July 2002

In a large‐scale survey of medical practitioners and consultant practices throughout Germany, job‐related pressure was found to be significantly higher among the eastern German Federal States (former GDR) compared to the older Federal States (former West Germany). More specifically, those practising in East Germany reported significantly more stress regarding the “work‐leisure interface” (problems associated with clearly demarcating work and private time). In addition, medical staff in the new Federal States displayed slightly lower levels of job satisfaction, and less risk taking and were more cautious in their attitudes than their West German counterparts. The implications of these findings are discussed.
A brief history of GLOBE
Authors: House Robert J.
Published: July 2002

This paper discusses the issues relating to the origin, development, and management of the Global Leadership and Organizational Behavior Effectiveness research program (GLOBE) project. GLOBE is a cross‐cultural research program involving 160 scholars in research teams in 60 nations. The discussion includes designing the research program; recruiting participating scholars; obtaining commitment to the program objectives; replacing country teams which fail to meet their objectives; establishing electronic and Web links; designing the documentation for data collection and coding; establishing rights to data sharing and authorship; and dividing responsibility for data analysis and writing. Special attention is given to lessons learned from managing the project.
About differences and blind spots
Authors: Veronika Müller Christiane
Published: July 2002

The paper reflects the team process of an international interdisciplinary research team from the perspective of recent developments in systemic approaches in the German speaking world. From this basis the reflection focuses on the differences that influenced the team process, the blind spot the team developed, and the functions of that blind spot. If team processes are to enable synergy of cultural and scientific differences, blind spots have to be reduced. Practical suggestions are provided as to how team processes could be supported by the individual competences of the team members and especially by structured reflections loops.
The effects of some attitudinal and organizational factors on transfer outcome
Authors: Cheng Eddie W.L. , Ho Danny C.K.
Published: July 2002

Two attitudinal (training value and training motivation) and two organizational (opportunity to transfer and transfer reward) factors were proposed to affect the transfer of MBA knowledge to the job and were tested using multiple regression analysis. The results indicated that only training value was significantly related to transfer outcome. In other words, the greater the perception of training value, the more would be the training applications. Other factors were shown to have little impact. It might be due to the fact that testing of the transfer of MBA knowledge required a longitudinal approach that should incorporate the identification of what MBA knowledge was to be transferred. Future studies were also suggested to include other individual, attitudinal, and environmental factors to study their effects on training transfer.
Reflections: Improved time management through human development: achieving most with least expenditure of time
Authors: Harung Harald S.
Published: July 2002

Time is the most precious resource in business and society. Unlike other resources, like people and capital, time is often considered fixed. However, the way people subjectively experience and utilize time varies substantially between people. Human development provides the basis for breakthrough improvements in time management. In particular, in higher states of consciousness it may be possible to transcend the limitations of time so that time ceases to be a factor limiting our accomplishments in life. In order to realize in practice a transformation to improved time management, we introduce an effective technique for personal evolution ‐ the Maharishi Transcendental Meditation program.
Absenteeism and phantasy
Authors: Guinchard Roland
Published: July 2002

From a psychoanalytic point of view, presents a set of propositions concerning aspects of the relationship between psychoanalysis and firms. Considers, in particular, the domestication of speech, the nature of communication in the environment of the firm, and the relationship between the subject and the socius. Seeks to explain the possible role of phantasy in the context of the firm and employs this approach to examine the issue of employee absenteeism.
Machiavellianism and retail banking executives in Hong Kong
Authors: Siu Wai‐sum
Published: July 2002

Banks in Pacific‐rim countries have widely and aggressively used retail banking and branch networking to provide services. However, it is widely believed that Machiavellianism is counter to conservative banking practices. This paper reports the research findings of the Machiavellian orientation of retail banking executives in Hong Kong and the relationship between Machiavellianism and job satisfaction in the banking sector. The results indicate that a relation between Machiavellianism and job satisfaction, but not career satisfaction, exists in retail banking executives.
The impact of behaviors and structure on corporate entrepreneurial success
Authors: Echols Ann E. , Neck Christopher P.
Published: July 2002

By more closely examining the structural “support” necessary to enhance corporate entrepreneurship ‐ that is, to enhance the entrepreneurial behaviors of a firm’s employees ‐ firms may increase their success with innovation. We specifically suggest that enabling employees to detect, facilitate and pursue opportunities while fostering an organic, organizational structure with shared vision and values increases a firm’s breadth and depth of commercialized innovations. Our rationale for these proposed relationships, as well as suggestions for implementing an entrepreneurial corporate structure, are presented.
Action‐led strategy and managerial self‐confidence
Authors: Bowman Cliff
Published: July 2002

Changing an organization requires a good deal of self‐confidence. When strategic change takes place either this confidence derives from the situation confronting the executive, usually some form of crisis, or executives derive confidence from implementing a familiar recipe, drawn from their past experience. Only rarely does the confidence to change the status quo derive from some form of strategic analysis. This article proposes an action‐led approach to strategy. Strategy is not constructed from “analysis”, it emerges from action. It does not presume the existence of a shared vision – this is shaped through action; nor does it falsely separate formulation from implementation – these occur concurrently. Action, in the form of experiments and pilot tests, generates belief in a way ahead that builds from the existing competitive assets of the organisation.
A quality roadmap of a restructured hospital
Authors: Chow‐Chua Clare F.P. , Goh Mark
Published: July 2002

This paper presents a quality roadmap of a restructured hospital. Specifically, a case study is showcased to reveal how a FOCUS‐PDCA model is applied to the Central Portering Services (CPS) within a restructured hospital, to provide better service to other departments within the hospital who can then in turn value add to the patient care delivery chain. The preliminary results suggest that implementers of quality and service improvement programmes using the FOCUS‐PDCA approach should note some of the key implementation difficulties. These difficulties occur at all levels and include issues relevant to change management, process improvement programmes, accessibility to data, communication and judicious execution of the change process.
The Swedish management audit: a precedent for performance and value for money audits
Authors: Burrowes Ashley , Persson Marie
Published: July 2002

This study reports the findings of a survey of Swedish auditors seeking opinions on the conceptual underpinnings of the long established private sector management audit in that country. The authors give the background to the historical calls for accountability and stewardship and draw parallels with calls for accountability by the large modern corporations which emanate from the agency contracts that management functions under. The findings conclude that the Swedish profession needs a theoretical base for its continued conduct of this audit function. The UK and US professions have taken tentative steps towards expanding the traditional financial audit but the rallying calls of visionaries seem as yet to be unheeded.
Auditing the cost effectiveness of radon mitigation in the workplace
Authors: Denman A.R. , Harris E.P. , Hermann M.R. , Phillips P.
Published: July 2002

Radon is a natural gas which can build up underneath buildings. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has found sufficient evidence to classify radon as harmful to human beings. The National Radiological Protection Board has identified areas in the United Kingdom where radon levels are above average. Northamptonshire is one such area, where the NHS was required to set up a radon mitigation programme to reduce the potential health hazard to its 11,189 employees, employed on 82 separate sites. Calculates the dose saving achieved and the associated costs and attempts to derive a value for the cost‐effectiveness of the programme, as compared to a programme recommended by the NRPB to reduce patient doses from dental X‐Rays in the UK. It also examines recent domestic remediation initiatives investigated by researchers in Spain, USA, Sweden and Canada. The methods used by Colgan and Gutiérrez to measure reductions in radon levels and to calculate associated annualised costs were used to analyse the results of the Northamptonshire NHS programme which produced an estimated cost of £680,000 per lung cancer saved. This paper reports on the costs and potential benefits delivered by the radon mitigation programme in Northamptonshire. It also discusses some of the wider policy implications for management, particularly in multi‐site public sector organisations where value for money in an environment of cash limited funding is an increasing pressure.
The demand for external auditing: managerial share ownership, size, gearing and liquidity influences
Authors: Tauringana Venancio , Clarke Steve
Published: July 2002

Small companies with a turnover of up to £90,000 have been exempted from a compulsory audit since 1994. This paper is an investigation of why some small companies chose to continue with the audit whilst others abandoned it. The basic hypothesis of the paper is that a major reason why some small companies continue to be audited is to help control the conflict of interests among managers, shareholders, and outside creditors. Based on this analysis, the probability that a company will be audited voluntarily are predicted to increase as company size and gearing ratio increase, and to decrease as managerial share ownership and liquidity ratios increase. Univariate and multivariate tests were applied to the data of 92 small independent companies randomly selected from the Companies House CD‐ROM database. The results from the two tests support the hypothesised effects of managerial share ownership, company size (turnover), and gearing ratio. There is no support for the company size (total assets) and liquidity ratio effects.
The implications of intellectual property law for the auditing and protection of national and international brands: Part II. Brands in the grey market
Authors: Elsmore Matthew James
Published: July 2002

Provides a practical snapshot of the legal situation governing the protection and exploitation of brand power within the European “grey market”. Predominantly, this occurs through the use and enforcement of intellectual property rights, namely the trade mark. However, legal events over the last year or so have fundamentally affected the antics of grey marketers and the subsequent powers granted to the owners of a range of branded marks, including famously lucrative names such as Levi’s, Nike and Calvin Klein. The recent pronouncements from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg together with national court decisions have created a degree of confusion. The landmark Silhouette Case has proved immensely controversial with regard to the operation of trade mark law throughout the European Union (EU). The decision seems to prohibit the importation into the EU of branded goods or services, unless such activity has been specifically consented to by the brand owner. At a glance, the culmination of these legal precedents seems to have dealt the grey market operators and traders a severe blow – with potentially adverse effects for the European consumer as well. Seeks to analyse recent events by providing the backdrop to the controversy and then putting the cases into perspective so as to offer sound and practical advice to all interested parties in the now modified grey market environment.
The implications of intellectual property law for the auditing and protection of national and international brands: Part III. Brands in Europe
Authors: Elsmore Matthew James
Published: July 2002

As the third part of an article, this explores and reviews current trans‐national protection for brands in Europe. How have the recent European trade mark reforms impacted on the whole area? Looks at a pan‐European strategy which benefits the large players. Linguistic and cultural differences still affect the behaviour of the European consumer. Future applicants of a CTM need to understand these implications in order to follow a cost‐effective and practical means to safeguard their brands.
Implementing the strategic formulation framework for the banking industry of Hong Kong
Authors: Sai On Ko Andrew , Lee S.F.
Published: July 2002

Applies a new strategy formulation instrument (named as the strategy formulation (SF) framework), which is geared for an Asian (Chinese) culture within the banking industry of Hong Kong. In particular, the focus will be on a case study of the ABC Bank. The ABC Bank remains one of the more conservative banks in Hong Kong. Its major advantages are that it only deals with inter‐banking, and corporate banking. It has no bad debts and is extremely cash rich. However, because of its conservativeness, it remains a very low profile bank within the Hong Kong market. The main objective of this paper is to develop a set of strategies for the organization based on the SF framework. The SF framework is a combination of the SWOT analysis, the balanced scorecard (BSC), and Sun Tzu’s Art of Business Management in Strategic Planning, via the quality function deployment methodology. This new strategic management instrumentation was developed by Lee and Ko. The SF framework is unique because it integrates strategy formulation tools from both the Eastern and Western cultures, and its flexibility allows intercultural adaptations for most organizations.
Activity‐based life‐cycle costing
Authors: Emblemsvag Jan
Published: July 2002

The purpose of this paper is to present a new method for life‐cycle costing (LCC) called activity‐based LCC by employing the comprehensive activity‐based life‐cycle assessment method. A real‐life case study of a platform supply vessel operating in the North Sea is utilized to present the method, illustrate an implementation, including results, and discuss the benefits. Furthermore, due to the inherent uncertainty in LCC, handling of uncertainty is emphasized. A crucial side‐effect of handling uncertainty by employing Monte Carlo simulations – as activity‐based LCA prescribes – is the greatly enhanced tracing of critical success factors. Such tracing enables the shipowners to increase long‐term profitability by focusing on what is critical to their success. Also, a design option of using heavy fuel oil versus marine gas oil is investigated.
Developing a model to restructure the overpopulated banking industry in Lebanon
Authors: Charbaji Abdulrazzak
Published: July 2002

The purpose of this research is to develop a multivariate statistical model to classify the commercial banks in Lebanon in cohesive categories on the basis of their financial characteristics revealed by the financial ratios. This article uses factor analysis as a data reduction technique to reduce 52 financial ratios into seven financial ratios that adequately explain differences in performance among 50 banks in Lebanon. Implication for mergers between commercial banks is based on cluster analysis that is used to divide Lebanese banks into four performance clusters. Multidiscriminant analysis is used to examine the relative importance of the financial ratios discriminating between these clusters.